Your Brent Spring 2025 by Brent Council

SPRING 2025

www.brent.gov.uk/yourbrent

CAUGHT RED FACED

Facial recognition cameras lead to arrests Page 22

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF VE DAY!

Tributes paid to WWII heroes Page 30

ROYAL DOUBLE

Royals praise work across Brent in double visit Pages 5 & 12

The magazine about life in Brent, published by Brent Council

“ I love that something like Library of Things exists. It' s a brilliant way to access tools I could never justify buying, or try out others that I might buy before making the investment.”

As the days get brighter and longer and the ﬂowers start to bloom, I hope you take some time to enjoy one of our 109 parks and open spaces this spring.

Our beautiful parks and open spaces are just one of the many things the council spends money on and I am pleased that – despite the huge ﬁnancial pressures facing local authorities across the country – we have once again set a balanced budget.

This is no easy task. To put it in context, a quarter of Londoners now live in a borough seeking ‘exception financial support’ from the Government – which effectively means they cannot balance the books on their own. But in Brent, we have taken the tough choices and are working in new, more innovative and efficient ways to make every pound we spend work as hard as possible.

Our investment into supporting young people to get the best start in life will continue through funding for our top-performing schools, libraries, Family Wellbeing Centres, and Holiday Activity and Food programmes. We are doing everything we can to tackle tackling the cost-of-living crisis through initiatives like the New Horizons Centre, which provides groceries, meals, and welfare advice for low-income families.

As part of this, we are allocating £1.5million towards a hardship fund to support those people most in need creating a lifeline for our neighbours in crisis. We also remain committed to supporting the elderly and vulnerable residents, which is a signiﬁcant chunk of our budget. You can read more on page 38.

Another priority in the budget is a cleaner, greener borough. We’ve all had enough of selfish people using our streets as their rubbish bin. That’s why our Don’t Mess with Brent campaign will intensify efforts against fly-tipping.

Our new caught on camera series showcases the worst ﬂy-tipping in the borough. Please help us keep the streets clean by identifying the culprits as they deserve to be caught and ﬁned up to £1,000!

Finally, if you are planning a spring clean, there are lots of ways to get rid of your unwanted items so that they are reused, recycled or disposed of responsibly. You can ﬁnd out more at www.brent.gov.uk/dontmess.

Councillor Muhammed Butt Leader of the Council

Exciting plans approved including 2,000 new homes

Over 2,000 new homes were given the green light in just one night in December, as Brent Council’s Planning Committee approved redevelopments in Wembley, Neasden and other applications.

Under the plans from the College of North West London two of their campuses now have the greenlight to be redeveloped.

The college’s Dudden Hill campus is set to deliver 1,627 new homes, shops, a gym and workspace, a community facility and nursery, as well as improvements to public green spaces on Dudden Hill Green and Selbie Avenue.

In Wembley, the Crescent House site will be redeveloped to provide a further 304 new homes, with 20% aﬀordable homes across the two locations.

Puff and pay: Wembley paan house scam revealed

A shop owner in Wembley has been given a six-month custodial sentence and fined nearly £2,000, including prosecution costs, for selling illegal tobacco.

Mr Thakker, a repeat oﬀender, who owns Sangit Paan House on the High Road in Wembley, has been prosecuted ﬁve times in recent years for selling illegal tobacco products smuggled into the country.

Trading standards officers from Brent Council raided Mr Thakker’s premises following a tip-off on the final day of his previous eight-week suspe nded sentence.

The team discovered thousands of illegal products intended for sale and found a new storage unit used to store a large amount of illegal tobacco.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: “It is so important as we enter a smoke free generation, that tobacco controls are complied with.”

Kilburn library starting a new chapter

Kilburn Library will temporarily close this spring for a major makeover, reopening in late 2025 with a fresh new look, flexible spaces, a brand-new community area for hire and much more. Stay updated at: www.brent.gov.uk/ libraries.

College of North West London artists impression

Royal visit marks 45 years of the Asian Women’s Resource Centre

Queen Camilla visited a specialist women’s organisation in Harlesden which offers independent support to women and girls experiencing violence or abuse. During her visit to the Asian Women’s Resource Centre in February, the Queen met with survivors and staﬀ to mark the organisation’s 45th anniversary and opened a new Healing Garden.

The centre, based at 108 Craven Park, provides support for women and girls of all ethnicities aﬀected by domestic abuse, forced marriages, honour-based and faith-based abuse.

To learn more or to access support, visit: www.awrc.org.uk

£550,000 for young creatives

Nine leading arts organisations in Brent have secured £550,000 of funding to boost the borough’s cultural sector and inspire young people through the arts.

Awarded by Arts Council England National Lottery Place Partnership, the money will create new opportunities for underserved communities to access arts and culture, while supporting creative career pathways.

The initiative, called ‘Vi-Brent,’ will unite the expertise of nine local organisations to involve over 7,000 children and young people, aged 4 to 25, through an ambitious three-year programme.

The programme covers various art forms, including immersive theatre, orchestral music, carnival arts, and ﬁlmmaking.

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Customer Experience, Resident Support and Culture, said: «Vi-Brent will open up a range of new opportunities to help the next generation thrive in the arts.”

The nine organisations are: Brent Council, Punchdrunk Enrichment, Fresh Arts, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Unique Community, Mahogany Arts, Young Brent Foundation, Garden Studios and The Awareness Tap.

Bling it on!

Brent based jewellery designer Tayo Bello sparkled at a special pop-up shop, organised by the Mayor of London, at Battersea Power Station in December.

The Mayor selected twelve creatives from across the capital’s Creative Enterprise Zones to take-part in a two-week retail development programme to help grow their creative businesses. Tayo, who runs Bello Creations on Ealing Road and specialises in creating ethical, handcrafted pieces, said: “The most important takeaway that helped my business was learning how to take care of my ﬁnances.”

Ealing Road and Alperton is part of the Mayor of London’s ﬂagship Creative Enterprise Zone programme. Find out more about Brent’s CEZ.

Queen Camilla, The Mayor of Brent and Councilor Butt at the Asian Womens Resource Centre

Tayo Bello and her handcrafted jewelley pieces

Bright future for Neasden town centre

Neasden town centre is set to be revitalised by a £10.5million investment funded by Brent Council and the Mayor of London. Neasden town Centre and high street will be rejuvenated, with a new community space and improved accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and other wheel-based users, through upgrades to the pathways.

Brent Council’s Cabinet agreed an investment of £7.4million in January following last year’s announcement of £3.1million from the Mayor of London’s Civic Partnership Programme. Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said:

“This is fantastic news for everyone that lives and works around Neasden. I am really pleased that we have secured such a large investment, and alongside council funding we can now look forward to a revitalised high street in the future. We will be working closely with our partners, residents and businesses, to ensure that Neasden will beneﬁt from a more connected and sustainable community.”

Construction work is expected to commence in 2026.

Breathe easy as air quality improves in the borough

New data shows that in 2024 harmful emissions in Brent were 36% lower than they would have been had the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) not gone ahead.

Air monitoring stations around John Keble Primary School and ARK Franklin Primary Academy have shown that the concentration of dangerous emissions like PM.25 have decreased by around 25% in the last year.

The data, released by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan sets out that the London-wide Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has helped to signiﬁcantly

decrease the amount of harmful NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) and PM.25 in the air. The council has also been leading the way with a number of clean air initiatives and transport measures. Brent Council has helped to install over 30 School Streets across the borough, reducing traﬃc at school drop-oﬀ and pickup times and making it safer for children to walk, scoot, and cycle to school.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: ‘‘Every resident, no matter their background, has the right to breathe clean air in this city and in our borough.”

Undercover sting catches shop selling vapes to children

A shop in Dollis Hill, ACETEC LTD, has been fined £5,216 for selling vapes to children.

The company and its director pleaded guilty to the charges in February, resulting in the substantial penalty. Undercover agents from Brent Council conduct spot-checks across the borough to ensure local businesses operate within the law. The covert work includes testing compliance by trying to buy agerestricted items such as vapes.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement, said ‘‘We’re cracking down on businesses that sell agerestricted products, such as vapes, without verifying the buyer’s age.” Report any concerns to Trading Standards by calling 0808 223 1133.

Neasden town centre artist impression

Brent Foodbank celebrates first anniversary

Brent Foodbank marked its first anniversary as an independent charity in February with a special celebration at St Mary’s Church, Willesden.

Over the past year, the charity has provided vital support to individuals and families struggling to make ends meet, distributing more than 5,500 food parcels and feeding over 12,000 people.

Alperton students ace fashion challenge

Year 10 textile students from Alperton Community School recently showcased their fashion creativity and sustainability by competing in the school’s first Sewing Bee competition in February.

Nineteen students accepted the challenge of transforming men’s shirts into unique fashion pieces.

The winners Chanya Shaw-Stapleton and Zara Gafoor impressed the judges with their

Vivienne Westwood-inspired tartan dress, which is currently exhibited at Ealing Road Library.

The competition was organised in collaboration with Brent Council as part of the Ealing Road and Alperton Creative Enterprise Zone (CEZ) programme, which promotes arts education, supports creative careers, and enhances local creative industries.

Share your views on local pharmacies

Brent residents are being asked for their views on pharmacy services in the borough. To have your say, complete the short questionnaire at www.brent.gov.uk/PNA by Wednesday 2 April 2025. Paper copies are also available by emailing info@soarbeyond. co.uk or by calling 01442 927972.

New Horizons for family homelessness service

Brent’s family homelessness service is relocating to the New Horizons Centre, 1 Robson Avenue, Harlesden, NW10 3SG, at the end of March. The new location is closer to other services that support families in housing emergencies. Families experiencing homelessness can schedule an appointment to see an advisor by emailing housing_options@ brent.gov.uk or calling 0208 937 2000 option 2.

Room to grow

New guidance to help anyone planning home alterations, or extensions, to improve their chances of securing planning permission ﬁrst time has been published by Brent Council. The new guidelines will help families create more space while preventing overcrowding. www.brent.gov.uk/planning

New councillor for Alperton Charlie Clinton (Liberal Democrats) has been elected to Brent Council after winning a seat in the Alperton byelection held on Tuesday 18 February 2025.

Invited guests celebrate the 1st anniversay of the Brent Foodbank

Year 10 textile students from Alperton Community School

Paralympian inspires young athletes

Five-time Paralympic swimming champion Ellie Simmonds made a surprise visit to a community sport session, Club Brent at Willesden Sports Centre, to support young athletes last December.

The Disability Sports Coach programme supports young people by breaking down barriers to movement, building conﬁdence and providing opportunities to engage in various forms of physical activity.

The 2-hour multi-sports sessions take place every Saturday during term-time, from 2-4pm. Ellie, 30, said “Places like Club Brent are so important to make sure people of all abilities build conﬁdence and feel they belong. To all these young athletes: keep pushing your limits – you’re capable of amazing things.”

For more information email: clubs@disabilitysportscoach. co.uk

Community unites against drug and knife crime

Over 200 residents, community groups, and local leaders gathered in January to discuss efforts to address drug and knife crime locally.

Chief Superintendent Sara Leach and senior police oﬃcers presented ongoing initiatives and invited feedback on improving safety at the meeting which was organised by the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board.

Residents identiﬁed hotspots and proposed solutions, including additional community drop-in sessions, youth outreach, and earlier education intervention in schools.

Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of the Council, said: “By working together, we can eﬀectively tackle crime and improve safety, making Brent a safer place for everyone.”

A recording of the meeting is available to view online at: www. bit.ly/brentpublicmeeting

Repairs revolution

Faster response times and a dedicated mould squad are two of the biggest benefits Brent tenants and leaseholders will see, once the council’s new repairs model gets underway.

From 1 April, four contractors – rather than one – will be responsible for responsive repairs (e.g. ﬁxing leaks, doors fences and walls), planned maintenance (e.g. roof replacements, kitchen upgrades and ﬁre safety works), as well as bringing empty council properties back into use.

A new in-house team, or “mould squad”, dedicated to tackling persistent issues of damp and mould in older properties is also set to be brought in after the council’s Cabinet approved the pioneering new approach. By bringing this critical function in-house, Brent is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding residents’ health and well-being.

Having four teams on hand means tenants will be offered a more flexible, efficient, and responsive service with reduced delays.

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Residents Services, said: “We’ve listened to our tenants and leaseholders, and our radical new approach has been directly shaped by their feedback. “With these contracts, we’re also looking to expand local employment opportunities and boost Brent’s economy.”

Wates Property Services will oversee estates and council homes in the west of the borough, while Mears Limited, Greyline Builder Limited, and Masher Brothers Limited will cover in the east.

Paralympian Ellie Simmons and young athlete

Chief Superintendent Sara Leach and senior police oﬃcers at the presentation

Holocaust Memorial Day remembers victims of genocide

The 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia was marked at a special Holocaust Memorial Day event at Wembley Stadium in January. This year’s theme ‘for a better future’ highlighted inspiring stories from survivors while commemorating all those impacted by genocides and mass atrocities.

Hungarian born engineer, author and Holocaust survivor Dr Agnes Kaposi shared her life story. Dr Kaposi told how, as a child, she had to ﬂee Nazi occupied Hungary for a better life in the UK. Sedinef. Sahman, Chief Imam for the Islamic Bosnian community, gave testimony about his experience of the Srebrenica genocide.

Scan-tastic! Diagnostic centres help patients get medical care sooner

Willesden Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) has completed over 50,000 diagnostic tests since opening in June 2023. The centre provides a range of diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, x-ray scans and blood tests as part of a programme moving diagnostic services out of hospitals and closer to areas of deprivation to help tackle health inequalities. Brent has two of North West London’s three CDCs, designed to improve access, cut waiting times and enable earlier health interventions, especially in areas where clinical need is the highest.

Wembley CDC opened its doors to patients in January 2024, providing MRI and CT scans in the heart of the community.

Photo: David Tao

Doctors and medical staﬀ at Willesden Communiity Diagnostic Centre

£30m Church End development reaches major milestone

Building work on new council homes and a new market square in Church End reached a major milestone in February as the highest point of the new development was completed. In addition to 99 new council homes and a vibrant new market square, the £30m regeneration includes new commercial units bringing opportunities for local businesses and job seekers.

Brent Council, working in partnership with Wates Residential, is delivering aﬀordable, family-sized homes and transforming the former market car park, on XX Road, into a community hub. The construction is set to be completed by February 2026.

Councillor Teo Benea, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Property said: “It’s fantastic to see this project taking shape now. We are a step closer to delivering much-needed family-sized, aﬀordable homes in Church End and look forward to welcoming families into the area soon.”

By 2041, the Church End Growth Area is set to deliver at least 1,300 new homes, including aﬀordable family sized homes and specialist accommodation for older people, located alongside new and refurbished industrial premises. To ﬁnd out more visit: www.brent.gov.uk/churchend

New children’s home offers safe haven

A new residential children’s home in Brent will provide a safe living environment for young people. The four-bedroom house will cater for up to four children aged 12 to 17, with qualified adults living alongside them in the community.

Councillor Gwen Grahl, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools, said: “Young people are not always able to live with their own family, and when this happens it’s our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.

The new children’s home will enable four young people to remain in the borough and maintain their relationships with their family, friends and local community.”

The Council prioritises caring for vulnerable children locally. This scheme will save the council money on private placements cost, providing jobs for local practitioners, and most importantly, ensuring their safety, growth and allowing them to thrive as young people.”

For job opportunities at the children’s home, visit: www.brent.gov.uk/jobs-training-and-skills

Councillor Teo Benea and Wates Residential staﬀ

Tree-mendous day planting at Longstone Avenue open space

Sixty enthusiastic volunteers of all ages rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty at a community tree planting event in Longstone Avenue Open Space in February. Together, they planted 18 standard trees – which are between 7-12 years old – and 540 whip trees which are around 1-2 years old. The council and Trees for Cities aim to plant over 1,100 new trees in the park, as part of the Church End and Roundwood green corridors.

Councillor Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Community Power, said: “Seeing so many people come together to improve our local environment has been truly inspiring. The trees planted today will leave a lasting impact, providing shade, cleaner air, and a beautiful green space for future generations.”

To get involved contact: community@treesforcities.org and for all the latest local environmental news, sign up to the Brent Environmental Network e-newsletter: www.brent.gov.uk/ stayconnected

Volunteers tree planting at Longstone Avenue Open Space

West London Orbital is ‘just the ticket’

Plans for a new Overground line from Hounslow to Hendon –running through stations at Old Oak Common Lane, Harlesden and Neasden – could be closer after the Mayor of London confirmed there were ‘‘feasible solutions’’ for all elements of the project.

The next phase of the West London Orbital includes carrying out design work, subject to ﬁnancial constraints. If it goes ahead, the West London Orbital would include a new Overground station at Neasden, connecting passengers to the Jubilee line. Brent Cross and Old Oak Common will also be connected, supporting regeneration and growth. The route would revive the Dudding Hill freight line from Acton to Cricklewood. If completed, TfL hopes to see the line carrying passengers by the early 2030s.

Councillor Teo Benea, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Property, said: “Brent and the whole of London would really beneﬁt from the improved transport links, environmental beneﬁts and new homes and job opportunities that the West London Orbital would unlock. Brent is fully on board as these plans are just the ticket West London needs to unlock, not just a quicker commute for thousands of people, but also jobs and growth.” The delivery of the proposed line and four new stations is still dependent on funding and permissions.

Green gurus

Teachers from 14 Brent schools have completed carbon literacy training, thanks to funding from the council’s Climate Action programme. The teachers completed the course in summer 2024, gaining the latest knowledge to promote climate action and bringing their new learning into schools this academic year.

Princess Royal applauds health heroes in Church End

The Princess Royal visited Church End in February to observe how the Brent Health Matters (BHM) programme has been working with local communities, including the local Somali community.

Mr Clargo from Anson Primary School

Have your say on the future of Bridge Park

Residents are being asked for their views on the future of Bridge Park Community Leisure including options for leisure and community facilities, as part of a wider redevelopment to provide new homes and green spaces along the Hillside Regeneration Corridor.

At the end of 2024, local people described what they would like to see in a new leisure centre which would include a new swimming pool, new sports hall, larger gym, a function hall, meeting rooms and café.

The deteriorating condition of the existing leisure centre means that it would require very substantial capital investment to keep the site open and safe on a sustainable basis, including major and expensive works to the lifts and other key parts of the building fabric. The council does not believe this expenditure is a sensible use of limited council funding when there are proposals to build a new, state-of-the-art centre for the community to use for years to come.

Brent Council is asking local people for their views about closing the existing leisure centre in July 2025, to enable a planned closure to take place in a managed way.

Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said: “Bridge Park Leisure Centre is so much more than a building and we want to honour its history and build on its legacy for the next generation of residents. This next phase of

Leader visits No.10

Councillor Muhammed Butt, the Leader of Brent Council, attended an Iftar reception at Downing Street with Prime Minister Kier Starmer on Thursday, 13 March. The event was held to recognise the contributions of young Muslims. The Prime Minister said: “It’s fantastic for me to be sharing this Iftar with you and demonstrating that this building is yours as much as it is anyone else’s.”

Iftar is a time where individuals break their fast together during Ramadan.

consultation is about gathering feedback on the proposed closure, and transition arrangements for residents.”

With other leisure facilities available at Vale Farm Sports Centre and Willesden Sports Centre, which are both within three miles of Bridge Park, the consultation is an opportunity for residents to feedback how well these facilities could support transition arrangements.

The redevelopment of Bridge Park is part of a wider plan to transform the local area, which could see £600million invested along the Hillside corridor in Stonebridge over the coming years. Have your say by 11 May 2025: https://bit.ly/bridgeparkconsultation

Bridge Park Community Leisure Centre

Do you rent a room in a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Brent?

Brent Council is consulting on whether landlords should apply for a licence to prove their property meets safety standards. It’s all about driving up standards for renters.

www.haveyoursay.brent.gov.uk/ or scan the QR code

Brent Register Office

For an unforgettable ceremony experience take a look at the suites and garden available at the Brent Register Office for your marriage or civil partnership, baby naming or renewal of vows!

Ceremonies Suite

A modern, elegant space to exchange your vows. The suite is filled with natural day light and has capacity for 100 people and features a flowered arch and fresh flowers, chivari chairs, Bluetooth and WIFI facilities. This suite gives couples access to our stunning flowerwall, lovelights and ceremonies gardens for those “oh so precious moments”. Free parking is available for three cars.

Amore Suite

“A toast to the happy couple” After exchanging your vows, hire the Amore Suite and celebrate in style with family and friends in a relaxed atmosphere. WIFI and bluetooth available. The suite is furnished with a flowerwall, and love lights. Raise a cheeky glass or two at your cake cutting ceremony. Hire the space for two hours for that ultimate ceremony experience!

Brent Register Office, Ceremonies Suite, Blossom Suite, Amore Suite & Gardens

Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley, HA9 0FJ

Tel: 020 8937 1010 Email: reg@brent.gov.uk Website: www.brent.gov.uk

Celebrate your love story in the heart of Wembley

Blossom Suite (coming soon)

Please

Ceremonies Gardens

Where else in Wembley can you find a hidden gem the “Ceremonies Garden”, which features three distinct landscape gardens that accommodate 100 people. For those of you that love the outdoors, why not say “I do” under the sun, moon and stars. The gardens have a canopy draped with warm fairy lights and a beautiful rose arch, creating a romantic ceremony backdrop for those trending photo opportunities!

A perfectly designed space for a small intimate mini-mony, which can accommodate a couple and 10 guests. The suite is bathed in natural daylight and features a large stunning blossom tree as its centre piece, adorned with gold vases, floral plinths and natural feathered pampas. The suite radiates a soft, timeless charm. The gentle earthy tones and floral accents create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, with a warm and personal setting for your heartfelt vows. With its charming ambience and intimate atmosphere, the Blossom Suite is the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort, ensuring a truly memorable celebration of love.

Spring forward

Brent is home to 109 parks and green spaces featuring cafes, history trails, art installations, exercise classes, and a variety of other activities.

Barham Park, Wembley provides a tranquil environment with mindfulness walks amidst cosmopolitan shrubs like Japanese cherry blossom trees, a meadow that forms part of the bee corridor, a children’s playground, an outdoor gym, and a walled garden that won the Silver Gilt award at London in Bloom.

The walks are organised by North Wembley resident Christine Coker, a ﬁtness coach and mindfulness practitioner. For more information, please email christinescoker@ gmail.com

The park is named after George Titus Barham, the son of the founder of Express Dairy Company. He was also an avid fossil collector, and his collection is displayed at the Brent Museum.

At Brondesbury Villas in Kilburn, volunteers have been actively planting hedges, showcasing how residents can come together to transform community spaces.

Vanessa, a landscape gardener from Kilburn, said: “The beauty of having a lovely green space nearby is its beneﬁts, not only for well-being but also for birds and wildlife.”

Brondesbury resident, Rebecca, the volunteer group leader, who helps organise a team of eight local volunteers, stated: “I would strongly encourage people to volunteer and get involved to improve their neighbourhoods for the beneﬁt of everyone.” For more information go to their Instagram page @lovebrondvillas.

For those passionate about gardening, the award-winning Roundwood Park in Harlesden won a Silver Gilt in the Large Parks Category at London in Bloom 2024, will be holding a volunteer gardening club on 12 April and 10 May, from 10 am to 2 pm.

After a day of planting and clearing shrubs, visitors can enjoy a bite to eat and poetry at the Roundwood Lodge Cafe. Previously, the park featured an historic railway train that ferried visitors around the park.

The newly upgraded children’s playground includes fully accessible play equipment for children with special educational needs. Visitors can also explore a wildﬂower meadow, a multi-use games area and aviary. Further details are available at www.natureconnectioncentre.earth.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement, said: “Our parks are something we can all be proud of, particularly given the signiﬁcant contributions from local groups and volunteers.”

For more information about Brent parks, visit www.brent.gov.uk/parks

As the weather starts to improve and nature starts to bloom, why not step out this spring and explore some of Brent’s award-winning parks and hidden gems.

Our parks are something we can all be proud of, particularly given the significant contributions from local groups and volunteers. Councillor

Krupa Sheth,

‘‘

Cabinet Member for Public Realm & Enforcement

Friends of Barnham Park

best start in life

Healthy start

Free nutritious essentials for babies and young children are now available to eligible parents living in Brent as part of the Healthy Start programme.

If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four, you may qualify for a Healthy Start card which provides a weekly allowance for fresh, frozen, or tinned fruits and vegetables, milk, infant formula, pulses, and cow’s milk-based drinks for babies.

Oﬀering parents who can be daunted by caring for a new baby, especially with all the responsibilities and things to remember at the beginning, the scheme enables eligible families to get nutritious essentials for babies as part of a preloaded Healthy Start card. Additionally, eligible parents receive free vitamin D supplements during pregnancy and vitamin drops for children under four.

Sixteen-year-old mum Kimora Williams-Grayson who lives in Willesden and is mum to 10-month-old Kazai said: “The Healthy Start card for food and milk is really helpful.

“Knowing my baby gets the right nutrients and vitamins he needs to grow strong and healthy gives me peace of mind – as they are expensive to buy.”

Cllr Neil Nerva is Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure, said: “We are committed to ensuring Brent children get the right nutrients to grow healthily at each stage of their development. With the spiralling cost of living, particularly with food and energy bills, for most families making ends meet can be a struggle.

The Healthy Start card is designed to support your baby’s nutritional needs, without stretching your budget as every child deserves the best start in life.”

For more information: bit.ly/Brent-Healthy-Start.

Egg-static Easter fun for kids

Free and fun activities for eligible school-age children are now open for booking during the Easter holidays.

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme provides free holiday activities, including healthy meals, to eligible children and young people in Brent.

The programme is a great opportunity for young people to explore various activities such as, multi-sports, drama, music production, science experiments, and more.

Visit Holiday Activities and Food Programme | Brent Council for more information.

For more information, visit www.brent.gov.uk/ costofliving

Councillor Neil Nerva, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure ‘‘ offer food, fuel vouchers, and financial advice.

‘‘ We are committed to ensuring Brent children get the right nutrients to grow healthily at each stage of their development

Kimora Williams-Grayson and baby Kazai

Crime fighting goes high-tech

safer brent Crime fighting goes high-tech

A series of sexual predators and other criminal suspects have been arrested after the Police deployed facial recognition cameras into Brent in January.

Facial Recognition technology can be used by the Met to prevent and detect crime, find wanted criminals, safeguard vulnerable people, and to protect people from harm.

The special cameras, which were used in Brent for the third time in January, were focused on a speciﬁc high footfall area. When people passed through that area their images were streamed directly to the live facial recognition system and compared to a watchlist of people relevant to police investigations.

Borough Detective Superintendent Will Lexton-Jones said: “The facial recognition initiative was highly effective. We ran out of police officers due to the number of arrests. In 90 minutes, we made seven arrests, most of which were of sexual offenders.”

In the past year, crime rates have decreased signiﬁcantly in Brent, with burglary down by 18%, motor vehicle crime down by 12%, and homicide down by 16%. While these ﬁgures are encouraging, recent tragic incidents indicate that more work needs to be done.

Detective Superintendent Lexton-Jones emphasised the importance of community cooperation: “If you trust us enough to tell us what is going on, if you trust us with the information that pertains to your community, if you share with us your concerns, we will act on it and our eﬀectiveness will be better as a result.”

Violence Against Women Lead Oﬃcer Ch arnpal Grewal added: “Tackling violence against women remains a top priority for the police. Police oﬃcers conduct undercover operations at various venues to monitor activities. We also provide training on safety, crime reporting, and understanding coercive control at women’s gyms. Additionally, we educate male students on what constitutes harassment and unacceptable behaviour.”

Councillor Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Public Safety and Partnerships, said: “We have a zero-tolerance policy towards violence against women and girls in all its forms and as a community must tackle this issue head-on.”

For more information on how you can contribute to shaping your local Met Police service, visit: www.met.police.uk/area/your-area

Burglary down

‘‘

We have a zero-tolerance policy towards violence against women and girls in all its forms

Councillor Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, Jobs and Skills ‘‘

Detective Superintendent Lexton-Jones

Health and Care working together

With an aging population, many people will experience health issues or need services while caring for relatives as they get older. But would you know where to start if an elderly relative needed help?

The NHS offers a wide range of medical treatments and care at the point of use, including doctor appointments, hospital treatments, emergency care, mental health services, specialist treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation for physical health conditions.

The aim is to ensure everyone has access to high quality healthcare, regardless of income or background.

Brent Council’s Adult Social Care (ASC) supports people with daily tasks such as personal care, such as washing, dressing, and meal preparation, as well as assistance with mobility and housekeeping and helps people with long-term conditions, disabilities, and mental health challenges through home care, residential care, and day services. Around 4,600 elderly and vulnerable

residents receive lifechanging support every year from Brent Council. Adult Social Care is ‘means-tested’ meaning there may be costs depending on individual circumstances, but it still accounts for more than a thirds (34%) of Brent Council’s revenue budget. That’s ﬁve times more than the council spends on waste, recycling and the environment. You can read more about the council budget on page 38.

NHS services are free at the point of delivery, although prescriptions, dental, and eye care may incur charges, and is primarily designed to treat illnesses, manage health conditions, and promote recovery.

Adult social care focuses on daily living support, whereas NHS services concentrate on healthcare and medical needs, both aiming to help people manage conditions at home.

The NHS provides rehabilitation services and limited recovery support but does not oﬀer personal care such as assistance with bathing, dressing, or cooking.

Councillor Neil Nerva, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure, says: “The NHS and Adult Social Care have diﬀerent roles but a shared goal in helping people to stay healthy and live their best lives. Understanding how Adult Social Care and the NHS work together to provide healthcare is important so you get the right support at the right time.”

If you or your family need support in knowing where to go or the help available visit: www. brent.gov.uk/adult-social-care.

A guide to health and care services in Brent: www.brenticp.nhs.uk

‘‘

‘‘ The NHS and

Adult Social

Care have different roles but a shared goal in helping people to stay healthy and live their best lives.

Councillor Neil Nerva, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure

A care worker with her patient

Invest in your dream home for less

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Hope after homelessness Hope after homelessness

In July 2024, mum-of-three Tina Noronha faced homelessness when she received an eviction notice from her landlord giving her and her family just 12 weeks to leave.

Tina’s situation is far from unique. Every day, families up and down the country face homelessness, with London local authorities bearing the brunt of the homelessness emergency. The challenge of finding an affordable place to live is not easy, but there is hope.

The good news is Tina, 43, was able to bounce back from homelessness after she moved her family to temporary accommodation in Buckinghamshire last October.

“The temporary accommodation in High Wycombe, was too small for the four of us. It was a triple studio flat.” said Tina. Unable to afford a three-bedroom house in Brent, Tina started to look further afield. Eventually, she found a home in Swindon with a friend’s help. The council negotiated to pay the non-refundable financial incentive directly to the landlord which secured a twoyear tenancy, as well as, paying for transport and removal services (a van) to move the family there. Tina continues: “I now have a

Comparative average monthly rental prices around the UK

three-bedroom house. We are still settling in and It’s hard, but I am happy we are no longer homeless.”

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Residents Services, said: “There are sadly no quick ﬁxes, nor any silver bullets when it comes to the housing emergency. In Brent we do not have immunity to the pressures facing our city, with 34,000 residents stuck on the housing register, waiting for a home.

“We know that our residents didn’t create the housing crisis and despite building more aﬀordable homes over the last two years than any other London Borough, there will still never be enough homes to keep up with demand. Remove the uncertainty of waiting and reach out to us today to see how we can help.”

Depending on your circumstances, the council may be able to:

Talk with your landlord on your behalf, if they are threatening eviction.

Negotiate with a potential new landlord.

Financially help you to secure a private rental home.

Invite you to attend Brent’s Ready to Rent sessions, for advice and guidance.

Ensure that a property is safe and suitable for your needs.

If you are at risk of homelessness please contact the council as soon as possible. Visit www.brent.gov.uk/ﬁndaplace for advice.

‘‘ In Brent we do not have immunity to the pressures facing our city, with 34,000 residents stuck on the housing register, waiting for a home.

Councillor Fleur DonnellyJackson,

Cabinet

Member For Housing & Resident Services ‘‘

Colonial legacy unwrapped

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and brought to life by Brent Council, the new exhibition, which opened in March, explores the connections between the north-west London borough’s colonial past and its present.

Located at The Library at Willesden Green, the exhibition runs for six months and promotes dialogue on global connections, immigration, and colonialism’s impact on Brent’s unique identity. Featuring work from over twenty community volunteer artists, it includes interactive displays on Brent’s landscape and communities, archival materials, and projects reﬂecting on the empire’s ongoing legacy.

Volunteer Archivist Lisa Lu of Eclectic Tours, who arrived from Los Angeles to study for a master’s degree at Kings

College London 15 years ago, also operates guided history tours across London and Brent.

She said: “We need to keep having uncomfortable conversations that challenge the perceptions of race, discrimination, and privilege. Revealing past injustices is crucial to understanding collective histories.

“Generations of people from around the world were invited to the UK and form an integral part of British History.”

Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Resident Support and Culture, said: “I am delighted and really pleased with the strong creative displays on exhibit. The pieces are a great conversation point to delve into diﬃcult areas and legacy of British history and empire.”

A new exhibition is tackling the complex and challenging legacy of British Empire in Brent, 100 years after King George V opened the British Empire Exhibition in the newly built Wembley Stadium. Visit the exhibition at The Library at Willesden Green, 95 High Road, NW10 2SF: Mon-Fri: 10:30am-8pm Sat: 10:30am-5pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

Gabriel, a volunteer archivist, said:

“After being in Brent for a few years, I wanted to meet people and contribute to the community. By participating in this project, I hope that we’ve helped to educate and inform people, so they can share this knowledge with others.”

The British Empire exhibition at The Library, Willesden Green

Lisa Lu

Weaving wellbeing health & wellbeing Weaving wellbeing

A sewing group is offering women a supportive and welcoming space to share stories, heal and process emotions in a safe environment.

The Brent Start sewing class, in Wembley provides community sewing classes for women to develop skills and foster social interaction and wellbeing. Women from various cultural backgrounds meet every Tuesday to stitch fabric and create lasting friendships. Launched two years ago, what began as a simple idea to combine creativity with emotional healing has grown into a powerful community of support. As the women stitch, they support each other listen or simply being present in times of need. Keiko, 73, from Willesden, joined after her husband of 46 years died due to a long illness. She faced the darkness of depression, struggling to ﬁnd purpose. She said:

“I was a zombie, just existing. One day, I searched the council website for green bin collections and found a fashion sustainability course – that was my starting point.

“My husband had dementia, and it became diﬃcult towards the end. He caught pneumonia and died two days after leaving the hospital which crushed me. I needed something to keep me going.

“I always wanted to sew and had promised myself that one day I would alter the beautiful Japanese Kimonos my mother gave me. These sewing classes changed my life. Meeting women from diﬀerent cultural backgrounds, everyone helpful and kind. It motivated me and I started feeling positive again. I am now making my ﬁrst dress!”

Cheryl, 50, from Wembley, said: “In 2018, I had a stroke, followed by another in 2020, impacting movement, speech, and memory relapses. Everything changed. My Occupational Therapist recommended this course which has helped me to regain my conﬁdence. No-one judges me if I forget things or my speech is impaired.”

The sewing project is run in partnership with Brent Start, the Friendship Centre, and CNWL NHS.

For more information or if you would like to join the group scan the QR code:

Keiko at the sewing machine

community WWII veteran’s remarkable life

WWII veteran’s remarkable life

This year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a significant moment in history when the Allied forces triumphed over Nazi Germany, ending World War II in Europe.

On May 8, 1945, millions across the UK, Commonwealth and around the world celebrated freedom, peace, and the resilience of men, women and children throughout the tyranny they faced. Commemorations will pay tribute and honour the courage and sacriﬁce of those who fought for freedom and those who supported the war eﬀort on the Home Front.

The 80th anniversary is a reminder of the enduring value of peace and unity, urging everyone to never forget the lessons of such dark times.

Willesden Green resident Peter Treganna, tells the story of his late mother Marjorie Laurie Treganna, who lived to celebrate her 107th birthday, and who proudly served in WWII, as a WAAF (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force).

Born in Sheﬃeld in November 1917, Marjorie, who sadly, she passed away shortly before Your Brent went to

print, joined the WAAF in 1942 as an Aircraftwoman and rose to Corporal by 1946.

Her son Peter, said: “My mother lived a life ﬁlled with love and gratitude. She proudly served in WWII and in 1943, met the love of her life, my father Jim, who was stationed at RAF base in Lincolnshire. As their romance blossomed, mum joined dad stationed both in Egypt after VE Day and Italy in February 1946.

“She has always had a positive outlook on life; and her motto was always:

“You die if you worry, you die if you don’t, so why worry!’’

In January 2015, aged 97, Majorie moved to live in a granny annex next to her son Peter. He continues:

“Mum thrived. She was a competent amateur artist and enjoyed the cosmopolitan vibe of Willesden, the long walks around Gladstone Park and bird watching until losing her sight to Macular disease 12 years ago. Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and dementia in 2021, she cherished her ﬁnal years.”

Stay tuned for details of exciting events across Brent libraries commemorating the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day: www.brent.gov.uk/libraries

Marjorie Laurie Treganna, age 22

Jim and Majorie in Egypt 1946

Fly-tip fines

The council’s Don’t Mess with Brent campaign is taking a zero-tolerance approach to anyone who fly-tips rubbish on local streets.

Since May 2024, the campaign has seen more enforcement officers patrolling local neighbourhoods issuing double the number of fines – including penalties of up to £1,000. During that time, incidents of fly-tipping have decreased by around 22%.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and

Enforcement, said: “We’ve all had enough of selﬁsh people using our streets as their rubbish bin. I have joined our enforcement teams to sift through piles of rotting waste, broken furniture, and even hazardous materials dumped illegally on our streets. It’s not just an eyesore it’s a health risk, an environmental disaster, and a slap in the face to every resident who takes pride in Brent.

“To those responsible: Your actions harm us all, and we will hold you accountable. When we get the evidence, we will hit you hard in the pocket.”

Can you help identify these culprits? They deserve to be caught and fined up to £1,000. Please email: dontmesswithbrent@brent.gov.uk

Location: Selbie Avenue. Reference: 18912

Location: Essoldo Way. Reference: 19472

Location: Dennis Avenue. Reference: 19332

Location: Preston Road Car Park.

Reference: Car park carnage

cleaner & greener soar soar

Brent’s enforcement inspectors thoroughly investigate every instance of fly-tipping to uncover evidence of the culprits. The following individuals have been issued with fines.

FINED

Location: Drayton Road, Harlesden. Fine: Issued

FINED

Location: Monks Park Fined: £1,000 paid

FINED

Location: Harlesden Gardens Fine: Issued!

FINED

Location: North End Road Wembley. Fined: £1,000 paid

Get rid of large unwanted items safely using the following methods:

• Use your FREE Community Skips – returning to a street near you soon

• Abbey Road Refuse and Recycling Centre is open Thursday to Monday most weeks

• Take advantage of the FREE small items collection service and the bulky waste collection service for a nominal fee.

• If hiring an external company to dispose of your rubbish, ensure they are fully registered.

Watch the council’s ‘caught on camera’ video series to see if you can help catch an offender.

New Beginnings

A free and confidential drug and alcohol service in Willesden is providing support to adults (in addition to Elev8, a service for young people), struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.

New Beginnings, based at 97 Cobbold Road, Willesden, is a warm, welcoming safe space that encourages individuals, to share their experiences and recovery journey.

Brent New Beginnings is an integrated service delivered by Via and Central and Northwest London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) in partnership with Brent Council.

48-year-old Wembley resident Anjali (name changed) was referred to New Beginnings residential rehab for 6 months.

Anjali said: “I previously attended Alcoholics Anonymous however, the large number of men made me uncomfortable. Indian women rarely attend meetings due to cultural taboos, and we often suﬀer in silence. Dealing with shame is lonely and diﬃcult to admit. In 2017, undiagnosed postnatal depression worsened my drinking. I needed help and sought treatment.”

The service is committed to reducing barriers to accessing treatment faced by women, including shame, cultural barriers, family responsibilities, and childcare. Additionally, the service provides women-only groups. Three women (anonymously) share their experiences with addiction to encourage others to seek help.

Amy, 53, from Preston Park, was referred to New Beginnings by her nurse consultant at the alcohol detox unit at St Mary’s Hospital.

Amy said: “Seven years ago, my drinking was life-threatening, resulting in hallucinations, diﬃculty walking, and physical deterioration due to not eating well.

“In 2000, things worsened. I had lost control and couldn’t see a way out. Clubbing, partying with drugs and alcohol led to becoming a functional alcoholic which impacted my job and relationships. I used cigarettes and crack cocaine, would buy several quarter bottles of brandy throughout the day and conceal them in my bag.”

Addiction doesn’t discriminate. New Beginnings encourages everyone to get in touch if you would like to talk to someone about your alcohol and drug use. www.b-3.org.uk/bsafe

Arrested for mental health and alcohol issues, 58-year-old Harlesden resident Anna found herself at Wembley Police Station, who then referred her to New Beginnings substance misuse service. She said: “New Beginnings helped me with my drinking and housing issues. I started drinking at a young age and it worsened over time. In 2009, I was diagnosed with alcohol addiction, and depression and needed professional help as my relationships suﬀered and I fell into housing arrears.” Anna now has a new job and volunteers at B-safe on weekends.

For referrals visit www.viaorg.uk/get-help/ brent-referral/ or call the 24/7 helpline 0800 107 1754

Telephone New Beginnings on 0300 303 4611, between 9am-5pm or email:Brent@viaorg.uk

New Beginnings, a safe welcoming treatment centre for all

& greener

Food ‘monsters’

More than 1,000 tonnes of food waste contaminated, blue-lidded recycling bins last year – that’s a similar weight as 84 London buses.

When food waste is put in the wrong bin, it results in the entire load of recycling being rejected and burned.

There are six main contamination monsters running riot in blue topped recycling bins. The most common monsters we ﬁnd in blue topped recycling bins are:

Contaminated recycling cost taxpayers over £500,000 in fees last year as, instead of being recycling, it had to be sent to be incinerated with general waste. Due to the massive cost of redirecting waste, we have named food waste that ends up in recycling bins a monster that needs to be dealt with.

This money could have been better spent on vital front-line services. Fortunately, recycling food waste has become easier through using the green food waste caddies, which are emptied weekly as part of the council’s recycling collections.

Correct food waste recycling converts to compost and generates energy to power the local grid. This process is cost-eﬀective and much better for the planet.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement, said: “Don’t be caught with a food monster in your bin as these critters are expensive and end up with taxpayer’s money going up in smoke.

“Instead, by recycling your food properly, this is an excellent way to help the environment while saving taxpayer’s money.”

When these are found in blue-topped recycling bins the recyclable items, such as plastic, cans, and glass, are sent to be incinerated along with general waste as the whole load cannot be recycled.

‘‘

‘‘ Don’t

be caught with a food monster in your bin as these critters are really expensive and end up with taxpayer’s money going up in smoke.

Councillor Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure, and Climate Action

cost taxpayers

Sixty students from six local schools were welcome to Wembley Stadium in December to take part in a ‘Scoring for Sustainability’ workshop.

Sixty students from six local schools were welcome to Wembley Stadium in December e to take part in a ‘Scoring for Sustainability’ workshop. Through interactive sessions in the learning zone, students learned how to make sustainable choices in their homes, schools, and local communities to help Brent become a more sustainable borough. 10-year-old Shyam, from Uxendon Manor Primary School, said: “I will turn my food waste into compost, ensuring all my food waste is recycled.” Alma, 8, from Wembley Primary School, added: “I will tell some adults about recycling plastic and metal.”

Alma, 8, from Wembley Primary School

Shyam, 10, from Uxendon Manor Primary School

Primary School children from six local schools

Making every

Brent’s Full Council has approved the final budget for 2025-26.

The budget, shaped in collaboration with residents and Brent’s Scrutiny Task Group, sets the council’s spending priorities for the year ahead. The average council tax for 2025/26 is £41.02 per week, based on a band D property.

It will also unlock investment in young people to get the best start in life and will continue the funding for our topperforming schools, Family Wellbeing Centres, and Holiday Activity and Food programmes.

As part of our ‘Don’t Mess with Brent’ initiative, residents will also see a cleaner Brent with more Community Skips, more Enforcement Oﬃcers, and higher ﬁnes for those that are caught using our streets as their own bin.

The budget navigates the balance between delivering the services that matter most to residents and making the savings needed to keep the council’s ﬁnances on a sustainable path.

A further £800,000 will go to projects including an upgrade to Kilburn Library, with £400,000 towards improving the Gladstone Park sports pitch and other parks and green open spaces across the borough.

The council has also allocated £1.5million towards a new hardship fund to support residents that need our help the most during the cost of-living crisis.

Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council said:

“The ﬁnancial challenge for Brent could not be more stark, with nearly 1 in 5

councils across the capital relying on emergency borrowing from government. Despite the obstacles, we are proud of Brent’s longstanding reputation for responsible ﬁnancial management, and I am pleased that once again we have approved a balanced budget which sets the foundations for the future.’’

‘‘Over the past 14 years, we have made £218million in cuts, and this year, we have identiﬁed a further £16million helping us to balance the books. This has been compounded by the growing housing emergency in our city, as well as a social care bill driven by our ageing population.’’

‘‘To govern is to choose, and governing means taking hard choices in the best interests of this borough. Tonight’s budget is not a responsibility we take lightly, but we will always ﬁght to safeguard frontline services and make every pound count.”

pound count

Where your council tax goes

and Stability in Brent A Cleaner, Greener Future

Thriving Communities

ARTS &CULTURE

DISCOVER THE ARTISTIC WONDERS OF WEMBLEY PARK

Many people are already familiar with Wembley Park’s worldfamous venues, but it is also a creative hub bursting with artistic talent.

The Wembley Park Art Trail is an outdoor exhibition showcasing over 26 public artworks, completely free of charge. Brent-based creatives and international artists have transformed the urban landscape into a large roving canvas, allowing visitors to encounter a wide range of art forms, from interactive digital installations to large-scale murals, as they explore all things, Brent. These interesting artworks are located on bridges, staircases, ﬂoors, bollards, digital totems, and other buildings and can be found using the GPS on your smartphone by downloading the CityTrotter App to begin your

journey and discover the vibrant art scene in Wembley Park. Among the featured works are pieces by notable artists such as Sam Cox, known as Mr Doodle, who rose to fame after he covered every inch of his Tenterden home with doodle art. Mr Doodle’s “graﬃti spaghetti” adorns a caravan and over 30 concrete barrier blocks.

Wembley resident, Laxmi Hussain’s “Landscapes of Women” celebrates the female form and the diversity of women throughout the borough. She said:

“I’m inspired by the forms and shapes of women I encounter daily. Their uniqueness, the tenderness of motherhood and the shape of the female body and by the strength of the women I meet.”

Additionally, there are some temporary installations that feature throughout the year, including the widely acclaimed bespoke murals that embellished the “Swiftie Steps” in honour of Taylor Swift’s record-breaking eight-night Erasmus Tour at Wembley Stadium last summer.

Wembley Park Tube Station is the recommended starting point to begin exploring your art trail. Complete the entire trail within 30-60 minutes, depending on your walking pace and has been meticulously designed to ensure complete accessibility.

For detailed information about the Wembley Park Art Trail and the individual artworks, please visit wembleypark.com/art

EVENTS

Exhibition: Shanghai Dolls

03 Apr - 10 May 2025

Mon-Sat 7.30pm, Wed & Sat 2.30pm

Kiln Theatre, 269 Kilburn High Rd, London NW6 7JR

The true story of a cultural martyr and a cultural oppressor. Amy Ng’s newest play looks at the untold story of two of the most inﬂuential women in Chinese history – Madame Mao and Sun Weishi –and how the personal truly is political.

Ages 14+ | £15 - £40

https://kilntheatre.com/whats-on/ shanghai-dolls/

Theatre: Starlight Express

Various dates until Oct 2025

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, 3 Fulton Rd, Wembley, HA9 0SP

As a child’s train set magically comes to life and the engines race to become the fastest in the world, Rusty the steam train has little hope of winning until he is inspired by the legend of the ‘Starlight Express’.

All ages | £29.50 +

Origin Stories Masterclass

4th June 5pm-8pm

Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores, Unit 22 Watkin Road, Wembley, England, HA9 0NL

Step into our immersive venue to explore Punchdrunk Enrichment’s signature creation process. In this fun and practical workshop, you’ll unlock the key to our physical and narrative worlds.

18 + | £85 (CODE: BRENTCLASS) www.punchdrunkenrichment.org.uk/ events/origin-stories

Sound Sanctuary Community Drop-in Sessions

3 April at 14:00 - 15:15 location TBC

5 June at 15:30 - 16:45

Hendon Football Club, Silver Jubilee Park, NW9 7NE

Join musicians from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at sessions to listen and create music alongside professional musicians. No prior musical

experience is required to take part. A range of instruments will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you already play.

18+ | Free

To book email, resound@rpo.co.uk

Exhibition: Becoming Brent Exhibition 13 January to 22 June 2025

The Exhibition Space, Second Floor, The Library at Willesden Green

The Becoming Brent project aims to explore complicated and challenging histories to examine how local and global inﬂuences have shaped the Borough and how Brent is coming to terms with the long-lasting impact of empire.

Free museum.archives@brent.gov.uk

Unique Youth Theatre - Actor’s Studio

Tuesday 14th Jan – Tuesday 1st April 2025, 5pm - 8.30pm

Seeds Hub, Empire Way, HA9 ORJ

Performing arts sessions including; acting, music and movement leading to the development of an original musical.

Suitable for ages 7-11 & 11-14

Free

Unique Youth Theatre - Movement Space

Thursday 16th Jan – Thursday 3rd April 2025, 5pm - 7pm

Seeds Hub, Empire Way, HA9 ORJ Dance, ﬁtness & movement classes led by professional dance facilitators.

Suitable for ages 7-11 & 11-14

Free

Unique Youth Theatre - Young Company

Thursday 16th Jan – Thursday 3rd April 2025, 7.15pm - 8.30pm

Seeds Hub, Empire Way, HA9 ORJ

Multi-disciplinary performing arts for young people who want to take theatre making to a higher level. Group devises an original show that is performed as part of an Arts Festival in London. Suitable for ages 14+

Free

ARTS &CULTURE

Match Day England v Albania

Friday 21st March

16:00 - 00:00

FA Cup Semi-Final 1,

Saturday 26th April

12:00 - 00:00

Studio Five Restaurant - Wembley

Coming to Wembley Park for the England V Albania game? Studio Five has a fantastic Burger and Beer oﬀer for all matchday goers.

Free

To ﬁnd more football matches visit studiofive.restaurant/whats-on/

Live Music at Studio Five: Soft Sounds

Friday 21st March,

19:00 - 23:15

Studio Five Restaurant - Wembley

Working in partnership with the London College of Contemporary Music to showcase up-and-coming talent, Soft Sounds is a dynamic duo bringing a mix of well-known classics and hidden gems that are sure to become your new favourites. With a sound that eﬀortlessly blends jazzy, pop, and soulful vibes, they provide the perfect musical backdrop for your dining experience at Studio Five.

Free

studiofive.restaurant/whats-on/

Live Music at Studio Five: Stevie

Saturday 22 and 28 March ,

19:00 - 23:15

Studio Five Restaurant - Wembley

Stevie Critchell is a trained vocalist, with a degree in musical theatre. She specialises in acoustic and jazz versions of your favourite pop and country hits, from Dolly to ABBA with some golden age classics such as Judy garland.

Free

studiofive.restaurant/whats-on/

Mother’s Day at Studio Five

Sunday 30th March

12:00 - 23:00

Studio Five Restaurant - Wembley

This Mother’s Day, give Mum a starstudded dining experience at Studio Five and treat her to an exclusive menu featuring delicious dishes that she is sure to love.

Free

studiofive.restaurant/whats-on/

Live Music at Studio Five

All Friday and Saturday evenings

19:00 - 23:15

Studio Five Restaurant

Enjoy an exceptional lineup of live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night.

Free

Hundreds of local people attended a St. Patrick’s Day event at the Learie Constantine Centre in Willesden on Saturday 15 March, to celebrate Irish, Montserratian, and Nigerian cultures. Guinness Punch, Irish stew, and performances by Nigerian dancers from the Benin Union Cultural Group UK were key features at the event, followed by music from the Ricky Nelson Band. Councillor Erica Gbajumo said: “This was a celebration of Irish and AfricanCaribbean heritage.”

YOUNG PEOPLE’S FILM MAKES THE CASE FOR CLIMATE ACTION

Local young people take centre stage in the ﬁght against climate change with their new documentary ‘Roots of Brent’.

The ﬁlm explores how climate change aﬀects young people in Brent and showcases the inspiring climate action taking place in the community.

Zakaria Khan, 12, from Harlesden took part in the project. He said: “It was great because I got to learn more about what is causing climate change and how to prevent it.”

Councillor Jake Rubin, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Community Power, said: “It’s inspiring to see young people taking such an active role in addressing climate change. ‘Roots of Brent’ oﬀers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Brent and highlights the importance of empowering the next generation of climate leaders.”

‘Roots of Brent’ was supported by the council’s climate action programme and sponsored by FM Conway. Watch the ﬁlm at: www.bit.ly/rootsofbrent

BRENT CREATES

A new website which serves as a one-stop showcase for local talent and Brent’s dynamic arts scene launched in March.

The new Brent Creates platform includes events, resources, opportunities, and a directory of local artists and organisations, connecting creatives living and working in the borough.

Davinia Khan, 39, Director of Wembley-based organisation Fresh Arts, features on the website. She said: “Brent Creates is an invaluable resource for Brent’s creative talent and dynamic arts scene, to share our work and projects with the wider community. Brent has a thriving and expanding creative sector, and Brent Creates oﬀers an ideal platform to highlight opportunities for the creative and cultural industries.”

Councillor Fleur DonnellyJackson, Cabinet Member for Housing & Resident Support, who holds responsibility for Culture, said: “The Brent Creates platform will be a fantastic tool to promote the work of creative practitioners based in Brent, helping them to connect with opportunities, to build a proﬁle, and showcase their amazing work. Brent is committed to the creative sector and supports makers and creatives to thrive, adding to the vibrant cultural life of our borough.

Councillor Teo Benea, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Property, said: “This is an important step in supporting Brent’s creative sector, particularly within our new Ealing Road Alperton Creative Enterprise Zone (ERA CEZ).

It presents a wonderful opportunity for all to engage with and savour the vibrant cultural life of our borough, oﬀering easy access to events, funding opportunities, and networking tools that foster a robust creative community within the CEZ.”

For more information, visit www.brentcreates.com

Davinia Khan Fresh Arts

health & wellbeingWhat’s On

Exercise

Free exercise classes in Brent libraries

From chair-based exercise classes to build strength and balance to yoga, ﬁnd out what exercises are available to you across Brent.

Women’s only walking group

Join Wednesday Walkers with Keisha. Socialise with other women, get active and enjoy the outdoors. Contact Keisha for more information on 07482709994

Free Low Impact Exercise

Classes Across Brent Libraries

During the Term Time Only

Join us for free low-impact exercise classes at Brent libraries! These sessions promote health and well-being in a supportive environment.

Yoga

Willesden Green Library

Mondays 2:23- 3:30pm

Stretch Exercise

Tuesdays

2 – 3pm

Kingsbury Library

Book at OURPARKS. ORG.UK/BRENT

Stretch Exercise

Fridays

2 – 3pm

Harlesden Library

Book at OURPARKS. ORG.UK/BRENT

Stretch Exercise

Saturdays

11am - 12pm

Ealing Road Library

Book at OURPARKS. ORG.UK/BRENT

Stretch Exercise

Thursdays

10:30am - 11:30am

Wembley Library

Book at OURPARKS. ORG.UK/BRENT

Tuﬀ Nutterz

3 - 5 May 2025

09:00 - 16:45

Canada Lane, Wembley HA9 0SG

The UK’s biggest inﬂatable obstacle course! All ages (under 5s need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian) From £15 www.tuﬀnutterz.co.uk/wembley

Libaries

Exhibition: Shapes and patterns in Kingsbury High Road

Kingsbury Library. Free. Until summer 2025

Discover clay artworks by children from Kingsbury Green Primary School drawing inspiration from shapes, colours and patterns seen in shops along Kingsbury High Road.

Exhibition: My life in art:

Stories of resilience and hope

5 – 18 May

Wembley Library

Launch event:

Tuesday 6 May 6.30 – 7.30pm

Stories of Resilience and Hope showcases the unique stories of twelve artists from around the world that have come to the UK as refugees and asylum seekers, often in the face of extraordinary personal struggle and adversity. Free

Pearls Meeting Centre –dementia meet-up

The Library at Willesden Green: Every Monday until end of June (excluding bank holidays).10.30am – 12.30pm

Creative support for individuals with dementia and their families.

Wembley Library book club

First Monday of the month, 6.30 –7.30pm

All welcome - drop in

A book club that focuses on stories that combine humour, heartfelt moments, and life-changing adventures, often with a touch of mystery or the fantastical.

Ealing Road Library STEM Club

Wednesdays 4 – 5.30pm

26 February, 26 March, 30 April, 28 May, 25 June

Science, Technology, engineering and mathematics workshops for children aged 8-11. Advanced booking required at tinyurl.com/jjhjrrzs

World Book Day: Poetry in Wembley

Wembley Library: Thursday 6 March, 6.30 – 7.30pm

Advanced booking required at tinyurl.com/jjhjrrzs. Renowned poets Imtiaz Dharker (OBE), Rishi Dastidar and Jennifer Wong read from their latest works, share their insights and engage in lively discussion about the power of poetry.

Family craft: Where in the world does our food come from?

Harlesden Library, Thursday 10 April, 2.30-4.30pm

Find out where some of the foods we most commonly eat are from and make a beautiful collage to take home. Age 3+. Drop in

Creative crafty fun workshop

Harlesden Library: Mondays 7 & 14

April, 11.30am - 1pm

Ealing Road Library: Mondays 7 & 14

April and Friday 30 May, 2.30 – 4pm Arts and craft activities for children aged10+, but younger children are welcome with parental supervision.

Drop in

Ealing Road Film Club

The wild robot: Thursday 10 April, 2.30 – 4.30pm

Paddington in Peru: Thursday 29 May, 2.30 – 4.30pm

Animated ﬁlm screening for ages 5 – 11. Advanced booking required at tinyurl.com/jjhjrrzs

Ealing Road Library

Words Have Wings. Tuesday 8 April, 11.30am – 2pm

Words Have Frogs: Wednesday 28 May, 11.30am – 2pm

Join Brilliantly funny Poet Paul Lyalls - to celebrate all things nature. Learn poetry skills, get creative and make friends! Advanced booking required at tinyurl.com/jjhjrrzs

For children aged 8 – 11.

STEM and arts craft workshops

11am – 12 noon and 2.30 – 3.30pm on each date except: Ealing Road Library: Friday 11 April, Tuesday 15 April Tuesday 27 May 12.30 – 1.30 and 2.30 – 3.30pm

Harlesden Library: Tuesday 8 April, Wednesday 16 April, Thursday 29 May

Kingsbury Library: Wednesday 9 April, Monday 14 April, Friday 30 May

Wembley Library: Monday 7 April, Sunday 14 April, Thursday 17 April, Wednesday 28 May, Saturday 31 May

The Library at Willesden Green: Thursday 10 April

For children aged 5 – 11

A Day Out at Wembley Park in 1924

Wembley Library: Tuesday 20 May, 6:30 - 7:30pm

Join Philip Grant from Wembley History Society, and experience a one-day tour (from a 1924 guide book) round the British Empire Exhibition in pictures. Part of Becoming Brent.

Nest Builders: A birdhouse adventure

Kingsbury Library: Tuesday 8 April, 2.30 – 3.30pm

Wembley Library: Wednesday 9 April, 2.30 – 3.30pm

Ealing Road Library: Wednesday 9 April, 2.30 – 3.30pm

The Library at Willesden Green: Wednesday 9 April, 2.30 – 3.30pm

Harlesden Library: Thursday 10 April, 2.30 – 3.30pm

Build a creative birdhouse, plus raﬄe prizes to be won.

Culture Nature England, a partnership for People, Libraries and Nature A Protected Site Strategy Project. For ages 5 – 11. Drop in

Water Creature Mask Making with Patchlarks

Wednesday 16 April

Ealing Road Library: 11.30am – 1pm

The Library at Willesden Green: 2.30 – 4pm

Make a mask from sustainable materials and transform into your very own underwater creature character. For 6-10 year olds. Advanced booking required at https://tinyurl.com/jjhjrrzs

Beginner’s Gardening in Spring – A Family Workshop

Ealing Road Library: Thursday 17 April, 11.30am – 1pm All ages.

Celebrate the arrival of spring with a fun and interactive introduction to the wonderful world of plants and gardening. Come along and get growing!

Kumon Maths and English workshops

Wembley Library: Tuesday 8 April, Thursday 10 April, Tuesday 15 April, 2 – 3pm Thursday 29 May, 11am –12noon

Ealing Road Library: Tuesday 27 May, 11am – 12noon

Booking: wembleycentral@kumoncentre. co.uk

Open to all primary school aged children aged 3 yrs - 11yrs

Family craft: Dance clothes in Brent Wembley Library: Thursday 29 May, 2.30-4.30pm

Learn about some of the clothes worn for dancing in Brent and make your own beautiful collage to take home. Age range: 3+ Drop in

Pirate Patchwork and Plunder Tuesday 27 May, 2.30-3.30pm Harlesden Library, Kingsbury Library, Wembley Library, The Library at Willesden Green

Wednesday 28 May, 2.30 – 3.30pm Ealing Road Library Craft workshop, plus raﬄe prizes to be won. For ages 5-11. Drop in.

Nature wildlife celebration day: Butterﬂy and seed bomb making Saturday 31 May, 11am – 4pm Family programme of events to celebrate nature and wildlife indoors and outside at Ealing Road library and garden. For children aged 5 – 11 and families. Drop in.

Family and Parenting

Weekend Fun at Brent Family Wellbeing Centres

Local centres will now open on Saturday mornings (9am–1pm) from spring and throughout summer, providing a fantastic opportunity for families who can’t attend during the week to enjoy fun activities and support services at the weekend.

Book your session today at: www.brent. gov.uk/familywellbeingcentres

A new 24/7 WhatsApp Support for Brent parents is now available. Get expert advice anytime with the Baby Buddy WhatsApp Assistant. Get trusted information on pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood for free.

Developed as part of Brent Council’s Start for Life programme, it includes:

• Health & wellbeing tips

• Practical parenting videos

• Local Brent support services

Contact Baby Buddy on WhatsApp or visit: www.bit.ly/BabyBuddy-WhatsApp

USEFUL CONTACTS

FOR HELP WITH COST OF LIVING www.brent.gov.uk/costofliving EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Call 999 for the police, fire brigade or ambulance services.

Call 101 to report a crime that is not an emergency

Call 111 if you have a medical problem that is not an emergency

OTHER LOCAL SERVICES

Find your local GP using the NHS search tool www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/ LocationSearch/4

If you want to help someone sleeping rough go to www.streetlink.org.uk.

If you are worried about domestic abuse

Advance Brent on 07398 454 898 Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm or email brent.admin@advancecharity.org.uk

If you are concerned about a child, call Brent Family Front Door on 020 8937 4300 COMMUNITY GRANTS AND FUNDING www.brent.gov.uk/funding

STAY CONNECTED

Keep in touch with the latest news and service updates in Brent by signing up for e-alerts at: www.brent.gov.uk/stayconnected

COUNCIL MEETINGS

April 2025

2 Health and Wellbeing Board

7 Cabinet 9 Planning

Make a claim for housing benefit www.brent.gov.uk/housingbeneﬁt

Apply for a parking permit www.brent.gov.uk/parking

Do you share Brent Council values?

Our values

We collaborate to fuel change. With trust and accountability, we empower ourselves and others to shape our paths, working together to build a stronger, more inclusive Brent for staff and residents.

Are you passionate about community development, sustainability, or innovation, if you share our values we have a role for you.

We collaborate to fuel change. With trust and accountability, we empower ourselves and others to shape our paths, working together to build a stronger, more inclusive Brent for staff and residents.

We celebrate our diversity, embrace fairness and respect. We foster inclusion, uniting our strengths to drive our shared purpose, ensuring every voice matters at Brent.

We embrace change, fostering agility and flexibility, and taking bold steps toward our vision. Each shift we make builds resilience, keeping our journey open and accessible to all.

We embrace change, fostering agility and ﬂexibility, and taking bold steps toward our vision. Each shift we make builds resilience, keeping our journey open and accessible to all.

We embrace change, fostering agility and flexibility, and taking bold steps toward our vision. Each shift we make builds resilience, keeping our journey open and accessible to all.

We shape the future together with creativity, curiosity, and boldness, breaking barriers and embracing innovation to empower and transform.

We celebrate strengths, achievements, and pride, inspiring purpose as we step boldly into the future, unlocking greatness and reaching new heights together.

Check out exciting career opportunities by visiting: www.brent.gov.uk/jobs-training-and-skills and follow the council on LinkedIn.

We are very proud to introduce you to our remarkable Trust.

Wembley Multi-Academy Trust (WMAT) was formed in 2016 and has rapidly established itself as one of the most successful Trusts in the country.

WMAT provides a truly unique environment for talented pupils who love learning. We are comprised of one primary and two secondary schools serving our local community and a Teaching School Hub responsible to the Department for Education for training teachers across the 314 schools in Brent, Barnet and Enﬁeld.