Contact us Call us on 0117 903 9975 Visit us at The Old Bank, 108 Church Road, BS5 9LJ Twitter: @upourstreet Facebook: Up Our Street www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Page 3 ELHNM Page 4 Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Forum
Lorena Alvarez - Neighbourhood Facilitator 0117 377 3640 / lorena@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk Stacy Yelland Communications Officer 0117 377 3638 / stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk Registered charity no: 1081691 Company no: 04023294 The opinions and information contained in this publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management. Advertisers are not endorsed by Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management.
Page 5 Bristol City Council Page 6 Coming up Page 10 Everything environmental Page 12 Young people Page 14 Poetry Page 15 Cultural corner Page 16 Junction 3 Page 17 Interview with Principal Gill Kelly
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ADVERTS
Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management You can follow us on Twitter @upourstreet Be our friend on Facebook Up Our Street Listen to us on BCfm 93.2fm Wednesdays at 8.45am NEW WEBSITE We are in the process of revamping our website so that it will be easy to use and will give you better access to news and information about our neighbourhood. The new site should be up and running this autumn. Visit www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
THANK YOU AWARDS Our annual awards will be taking place on Thursday 24 October. See the back page for your invite.
SPRUCING UP LAWRENCE HILL
Thanks to an Active Travel Grant from We’d like to introduce our new STAPLETON ROAD the Council and a grant from the Neighbourhood Facilitator In July we spoke to over 500 Neighbourhood Partnership, we have Lorena Alvarez who took over people about why they use had new signs installed in Lawrence from François in July. You may Stapleton Road. This will help Hill underpasses. This will help people recognise Lorena as she comes Stapleton Road Working use the underpass and welcome to us from Easton Community Group decide what to focus people to our neighbourhood. Look Centre. If you’d like to speak to on next. Contact us on 377 out for another interesting addition to Lorena about your ideas for a 3640 if you want to know the roundabout soon! community project contact her more. on 377 3640. Celebrating the official opening of Brook Street Park in July.
Well done and thank you to everyone who attended Gaunts Ham Goes Wild Dog Show in June. Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management is a small, independent community organisation run by residents. We have four members of staff and a Board of Trustees made up of local people. We help residents make positive changes to where they live. We produce this community newsletter, organise events and carry out projects working together with the people of the area. We also organise the Neighbourhood Forums on behalf of Bristol City Council. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Forum
We have been working with officers from the Council and the police to tackle the issues you raise
Neighbourhood Forum
Active Travel Grants
Neighbourhood Partnership
We’ve had some really useful and lively meetings recently and it’s been encouraging to see so many new faces coming along. Following feedback from residents we have changed some meeting times. We talked about youth services in July and 92 people attended to challenge the Council over closures to youth clubs. Do you have a burning issue we need to talk about?
In Easton and Lawrence Hill the following projects received money from the Council’s Active Travel Grants:
In June the NP elected its Chair, Maryanne Kempf from St Pauls. Those of you who came to our Mayor hustings last year will know what a great job she does. The NP also agreed its priorities for neighbourhood working - this means all officers will be focusing efforts on key streets and issues. Here’s the list:
Contact us on 377 3638 Next meetings Tuesday 3 September 6.30pm to 8.30pm Easton Primary School Thursday 17 October 10.30am to 12.30pm Stapleton Road Chapel
Andalusia Academy, St Judes
A DIY streets project to tackle parking outside the school.
LifeCycle UK
Over 55s cycling project.
Old Market Community Association
Street benches and tables.
Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management Lawrence Hill roundabout signs
Easton Community Centre
Cycling project for Black and Minority Ethnic communities.
Church Road Town Team Plants and benches.
Didn’t know you could apply? Subscribe to our updates stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
92 PEOPLE ATTENDED OUR FORUM IN JULY
Street cleansing/all things rubbish. Dog fouling. Graffiti and ugly tagging. Parking on pavements and antisocial parking. Street drinking and drug related anti-social behaviour. Drug dealing. Cycling on pavements. Noise pollution in the tower blocks in Barton Hill, Redcliffe, Easton Way and Lawrence Hill. The NP has some sub groups, one looking at traffic and transport issues and one that focuses on the environment. The environment group is looking for new members. You’d have to be able to give a few hours a month for one year and be contactable by email. Interested? Contact tom.penn@bristol.gov.uk The next NP meeting will be on Wednesday 25 September, 6.30pm to 8.30pm Malcolm X Centre, Ashley Road For all things related to the NP contact Penny on 903 9879 or penny@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Forum is organised by Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management
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Silence is golden
a minimum after 11pm when you are disturbing your neighbours. Operation Sunset will be reminding residents of this and taking strict enforcement action where there are ongoing problems.
The number #1 issue affecting people living in high rise blocks is noise from neighbours late at night. In the 2012 Quality of Life It is really upsetting when you are kept up at night survey, 40% of people in Easton and 58% of people in Lawrence Hill said that noise by loud noise. We all need our rest when we have to get up for school or work so please think of from neighbours was a problem. others when you reach for the volume control! To try and improve this situation, officers from If you experience problems with noise from different departments in the Council are working neighbours contact 922 2100 (daytime) or 922 together on a project called Operation Sunset. They will be speaking to residents in blocks where 2050 (night time) or report online at www.bristol.gov.uk/form/report-noise-nuisancenoise is a problem. It is reasonable to keep noise to problem
Sunday 29 September and Sunday 20 October
No cars in the city centre - come and join in the family friendly fun. Contact Esther on 922 3538 if you’d like to take part or volunteer.
Did you see Gromit in Lawrence Hill?
Better inclusion for people with Dementia
dementia for who they are and their life experiences.
Bristol as a‘dementia-friendly city’
You could be involved in helping your People with dementia should be recognised community better understand the needs of people with dementia. for who they are rather than just for their dementia. They want to carry on being The Council needs people with dementia to involved in their communities, visit their inform this work by: local shops, do the things that have always • Sharing your experiences. been important to them and stay involved • Explaining what is difficult. with their families and friends. • Telling the Council about the changes you would want to see. Whilst we need good health and social services, people with dementia also want to The Council also needs others from the stay involved in their neighbourhoods and community who want to take an active role, not have to face the stigma that dementia to use your skills and influence to promote attracts. change. Bristol is aiming for inclusion for people with dementia in the Easton area by helping Get in touch with Susy Cook if you would like to be involved on 902 3949 or the community communicate more susy.cook@bristol.gov.uk confidently, and valuing people with www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Up Our Street 5
Autumn festivities There are lots of exciting events happening in Bristol throughout autumn. If you want to keep up to date with fireworks nights, fun days, celebrations and more join Up Our Street mailing list. In our fortnightly email bulletin we bring you news of events as we hear about them. During autumn we will keep you posted about Doors Open Day (14 September), Halloween parties (31 October), Diwali events (3 November) and bonfire night fireworks (5 November). Contact stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk to subscribe.
Grow your own grub By Jane Buttigieg
Do you live in the Redfield area? Would you be interested in a garden food growing project? The aim would be to fill Redfield with home grown food by growing vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers in our front and back gardens and window boxes. Whether you are an absolute beginner or have knowledge and experience to share, please get in touch if you would like to be involved by contacting crunchyveg@gmail.com
Autumn at Barton Hill Settlement
Community lunch Thursdays, 12.30pm, three course lunch at the Halloween party special offer price of £2. Transport door to door for Friday 25 October, 7pm to 11pm. Adults £2, the over 50's in the local area (50p bookable in Children £1. Tickets in advance. Prizes for the best advance). fancy dress. Fresh affordable fruit and vegetables Conversation club Thursdays, 11am to 2pm. Wednesdays, 11am to 12pm, term time only at the Barton Hill Settlement, 43 Ducie Road, BS5 0AX. City Academy. For people with some English, a For more information contact Lucy Touray on 955 chance to practice your spoken English in an 6971 or lucyt@bartonhillsettlement.org.uk informal setting.
Neighbourhood roundup this autumn Old Market - Old Market Quarter Community Association is working on its Neighbourhood Plan and wants to hear from anyone who has ideas and energy for improving Old Market (www.oldmarketquarterfuture.org) Redfield - Parents are continuing their campaign for a school on Avonvale Road. Residents of Victoria Parade take on DIY streets (see page 8). Redfest arts festival is over for another year. St Judes - EARTH tenant management organisation is in the process of taking on the running of services for Council tenants (www.earth-tmo.org.uk). Greenbank - Residents contacted us about issues in Bellevue Park (If you are interested in this park contact lorena@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk). Easton - Resurfacing works happened along Stapleton Road. Residents Parking Scheme is awaiting approval. Lawrence Hill - New signs appear in underpass. Residents set up Friends of Gaunts Ham Park and 6
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Lawrence Hill traders and residents plan a street market. The Dings - Hannah More Primary held a busy summer fair before school holidays began. Dings Community Association said goodbye to their fantastic chair Richard Seymour who retired. Barton Hill - Work almost complete on expansion of Barton Hill Settlement. St Luke’s Church celebrates its 170th anniversary with events. Wellspring re-launches its low-cost therapies clinic. Newtown - New residents’ group formed with support from Community Organisers. Group is awarded funding for a new community notice board. Whitehall - Plans for the traffic scheme on Westminster Road on hold until all parties agree a way forward. Council looking into plans to expand Whitehall Primary School for 2015 and beyond. Anything we should know? If you know something that we don’t about where you live then please get in touch. Contact 377 3638 or stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk to share your stories.
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more to offer the local community within the building, including more evening courses in sewing and upholstery By resident reporter Emma Russell and maintaining the free day courses. SPAN (Single Parents Action Network) is a national SPAN believes that having children shouldn’t be a barrier charity based in Easton that works to empower families to participation in education and learning. SPAN offers from diverse backgrounds, with the emphasis on one educational courses working together with colleges and parent families. They campaign on issues on a local and universities in Bristol. They also offer one to one support national level and were founded originally in 1990 by a for parents, basic skills and English for foreign speakers. group of local single parents. All courses are supported by a crèche with 12 places and Silai for Skills is based on Easton Road together with a pre-school with 24 places which is open to any families SPAN. Silai for Skills offers learning opportunities to within the local community. women in Bristol, traditionally sewing, hair and beauty, Over 500 families per year are already involved. SPAN is upholstery and supporting women into enterprise. housed in a brilliant building with fantastic facilities and a From July 2013, Silai and SPAN joinied together. The lovely family friendly café with excellently priced food and building will continue to be called the Silai Centre and drinks. Go along and visit. It is well worth your time. Silai’s heritage and staff will stay, but under the Contact SPAN on 955 0860 or visit www.spanuk.org.uk or management of SPAN. The official opening in the autumn www.silai.org.uk will mean a stronger organisation. There will be much
SPAN AND SILAI MERGER
SCHOOLS FAIR
Saturday 28 September 1pm to 4pm, Barton Hill Settlement 43 Ducie Road, BS5 0AX
Confused about what school to choose for your child? Come and meet primary and secondary schools in Easton and Lawrence Hill. Application deadlines for school places Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Primary places for Sep 2014 is 15 January 2014 Management is organising a ‘school fair’ with all our Secondary places for Sep 2014 is 31 October 2013 local schools where you can ask questions. Contact Lorena on 377 3640 for more information..
Friends of the family Home-Start is a charity which trains volunteers to visit families in their own homes to provide emotional and practical support to parents. Volunteer Debbie McHale explains why she helps out.
What would be your one tip for a happy family life? I have learnt that all families have their problems, you're not alone and there is help out there if you need it. Communicating, having fun, and laughing is key to having a happy family.
Why do you volunteer? I volunteer because I get a lot of satisfaction from being able to help families when they most need it. How do you think it helps families? Being a parent of three grown up children, I know how difficult it can be at times. I am doing something I enjoy, talking to mums, playing with the children and generally giving a helping hand. The families get to see a familiar face, someone they can trust who is there to listen, help and not judge them. What is the best thing about volunteering? The best thing about being a volunteer is knowing that you are able to make a difference in the families lives. It is a great feeling when you arrive at the door and everyone is pleased to see you. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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If you are interested in volunteering or would like a volunteer visit contact HomeStart on 950 1170
Up Our Street 7
Talking politics In July we organised an event called Whose Responsibility is Active Citizenship in Bristol? The idea was to bring together people from all walks of life to talk about what it means to be active in your community - what difference can we make? Over 100 people attended the free event which we held at the Watershed in the city centre. We decided to hold it there because we wanted this is to be a citywide conversation with a focus on the great things happening in Ashley, Easton and Lawrence Hill. We invited speakers with a range of different perspectives, and although it was only possible to scratch the surface of the subject, it felt like the start of something meaningful. George Ferguson, Mayor of Bristol talked about the Council’s role in being open to residents taking more action and that we as citizens shouldn’t be afraid to ’break the rules’ if Council red tape is holding back positive community action. The Rt Hon Don Foster MP talked about the Government’s policies (The Big Society) and how central Government needs to give more
power to the local level. John Low from Joseph Rowntree Foundation shared some of his organisation’s research about the importance of working in neighbourhoods and Farooq Siddique talked about the challenges facing Black and Minority Ethnic communities to becoming more active where they live. We also heard some inspiring things from people who are already making change happen. St Pauls Unlimited’s Maryanne Kempf and Musnilya Babatunji showed us a short film about the work to improve St Pauls over the last ten years. Pete Davies from Knightstone Housing Association told us about how the organisation is investing resources into community work and Chris Chalkley from People’s Republic of Stokes Croft shared his approach to taking action into your own hands. Those who came felt the event was worthwhile and that it was the start of a discussion. In a time when we are being told we have to accept austerity and cuts should we all be more political? Our lives are all affected by politics yet very few of us would
say that we are political. Being political does not have to mean supporting a party but is about taking action, seeing a better way to do things and questioning and challenging things we feel are not right. We talked at the event about equality. As an organisation we will be thinking about how we take forward this discussion both locally and citywide, in particular why women, Black and Minority Ethnic groups and disabled people are under-represented in roles of power and how they can be encouraged and supported to play an active role in their community. If you have any thoughts or feedback contact us on 377 3638 or stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk. Read the Twitter feeds from the event #ELHNM Right: Farooq Siddique speaks at our event
Can you help make Easton and Lawrence Hill a better place for older people? LinkAge is looking for enthusiastic and knowledgeable individuals to join the Easton and Lawrence Hill Advisory Group. If you are over 55, live in Easton or Lawrence Hill and can attend a meeting for two hours a month to help improve things for older people then why not give it a try? For more information or to express your interest in becoming a member contact Raj Lalla on 955 5881. 8
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Congratulations to Victoria Parade residents who decorated their road to slow speeding traffic with funding from the Neighbourhood Partnership
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In May we elected new Councillors in Easton and Lawrence Hill. Here we introduce you to the people who represent your views in the city.
Lawrence Hill
Lawrence Hill
Margaret Hickman
Hibaq Jama
Margaret is a Labour Councillor and was elected in 2011.
Hibaq is a Labour Councillor and was elected in May 2013.
Why did you become a Councillor?
Why did you become a Councillor?
I decided to stand because it was better to do something about the Government rather than just swearing and throwing things at the TV – as well as being less expensive! It has been a great honour and privilege and I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute of it.
What issue do you feel most passionate about?
I'm very active in the Protect NHS Bristol campaign as well as in the campaign to abolish the bedroom tax.
What’s your favourite thing about the job?
It's so varied – I can be speaking to Council officers about damp, infestations or the need for someone to be rehoused, alerting May Gurney to the appalling service they are providing or speaking at Council meetings about the need to preserve funding for services to vulnerable people or in support of refugees.
How do you relax in your spare time?
In my spare time I campaign for the Labour Party, which includes being chair of Bristol West (our constituency), go to gigs, read, watch Wimbledon and travel to see my son Joey on stage.
How can people contact you?
You can call me on 353 2216, email me at margaret.hickman@bristol.gov.uk and follow me on Twitter @MargHickman
I wanted to champion the issues that people felt strongly about and use my advocacy skills in representing the interests of people in Lawrence Hill from within the Council .
What issue do you feel most passionate about?
I believe education is one of the key components needed in making Lawrence Hill better. I feel strongly about the right to education and I understand first hand how a good education can lift you out of hardship and struggle. We have good schools in the area and I am looking forward to meeting and working more closely with our great head teachers.
How do you relax in your spare time? I enjoy cooking and learning new recipes. I also enjoy swimming and reading.
How can people contact you?
People can contact me on my Councillor mobile number 07786732945 or email hibaq.jama@bristol.gov.uk or follow me on Twitter @Hibaq_Jama
Easton
Faruk Choudhury
Easton
Afzal Shah
Faruk is a Labour Councillor. He was elected in 2007 and again in 2011. Faruk is the Lord Mayor of Bristol for 2013 -2014.
Afzal is a Labour Councillor and was elected in May 2013.
Why did you become a Councillor?
I live in the area and I wanted to create a better community by engaging with people. I feel that empowerment is the key.
What issue do you feel most passionate about?
Education and how this links to youth unemployment and social exclusion. Also getting more Black and Minority Ethnic women involved in public life by volunteering and attending meetings.
What’s your favourite thing about the job? How do you relax in your spare time?
I like walking and going to the gym. I also like swimming, exercise works off some of the tension! You can call me on 07775026384, email me at afzal.shah@bristol.gov.uk or if you see me out and about please stop me to talk.
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I was always passionate about politics and I was influenced by my family who are politically active.
What issue do you feel most passionate about? There are so many issues but in particular all the issues which improve health and wellbeing.
What’s your favourite thing about the job? Representing the people of Easton.
Talking to people and being able to help.
How can people contact you?
Why did you become a Councillor?
How do you relax in your spare time?
I don’t have any spare time! Any time I have I spend with my family and I read books on leadership.
How can people contact you?
You can call me on 353 3372, email me at faruk.choudhury@bristol.gov.uk and follow me on Twitter @brislordmayor or @ChoudhuryFaruk
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“Hi there my name is Tom Penn and I’m the Area Environment Officer for Ashley Easton and Lawrence Hill. I have been in post Introducing our man on the ground now for just over three months and in that time I have been learning a lot about the area and the people who live in it. Over the coming months I will be working on resolving your priorities and improving the parks, as well as solving actions from the Neighbourhood Forum. Since I started I have had six new litter bins located on the railway path. I have helped arrange approximately 300 hours of voluntary work in the area and Community Payback have put nearly 400 hours of time back into the community. I have also reported 20 cases of fly tipping. My biggest bug bear is waste and how people don’t manage it properly, just a small amount of work and consideration for others can really improve the environment we live in. My other bug bear is dog poo - please, please, please pick it up and place it into any litter bin - it doesn’t need to be a dog poo bin.” Contact Tom on 922 4741 or tom.penn@bristol.gov.uk Bristol was named Green Capital of Europe 2015 and we were part of it! We want to make sure Easton and Lawrence Hill gets some of the green action so watch this space.
Calling all Easton and Lawrence Hill residents Do you care about our environment? Are you able to dedicate a small amount of time over one year to improving the environment in our local area? If so, the Neighbourhood Partnership Environment Group needs your help and input. Contact 922 4741 or tom.penn@bristol.gov.uk
Green fingered volunteers needed There are lots of community gardens in Easton and Lawrence Hill who welcome volunteers. Contact 377 3638 or stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk for a list. Go green with Avon Wildlife Trust in Easton and Lawrence Hill Communities and Nature is a new project from Avon Wildlife Trust to get people reconnected with the green spaces and nature on their doorsteps. They will be working in Easton and Barton Hill and are looking for groups in the area who would like some help in developing a community space or looking to get involved in a space near them. We all feel so much better by spending time outside with nature and the project can help you do this by offering a range of free activities, such as healthy walks, bird/bug box making and growing wildlife friendly plants and vegetables. For more information on how to get involved contact 980 0393 or mattharcourt@avonwildlifetrust.org.uk
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Take that tagging
By PCSO Emma Richardson “On Sunday 30 June, PCSOs from Trinity Road Police Station took a group of children from Felix Road Adventure Playground to the J3 underpass in Easton for a community clean up. Organised by the police, this was an opportunity for local youngsters to take pride and ownership in their area, with the reward being a go-karting trip during the summer. The underpass is routinely tagged by graffiti and then cleaned by Bristol City Council, but had been looking particularly bad and the children expressed an interest in covering up the offensive words and slogans. The walls were painted, and we removed all the rubbish thrown in the surrounding grassed areas. It was a really fun and positive afternoon, and the children thoroughly enjoyed the challenge although not all the paint made it onto the subway walls! Well done to Tenesha, Suleman, David, Neshodel, Ayisha and Alex for their hard work and fantastic attitudes”.
Community coming together By Juliet Dellow
“On Saturday 22 June, Easton Jubilee Trust held their Annual Celebration of Achievement Party at the Muller Hall. We enjoyed a tasty buffet and short speeches on the progress of our projects this year, but the highlight was having Lord Mayor Faruk Choudhury present certificates and prizes to our Somali young people and women from our sewing and crafts club. For more information about what we do, please 'like' us on Facebook or see our website www.ejt.org.uk”
Runners up Emmanuel Church
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FOOTBALL FANS Back in April eight teams from across the area battled it out to win the coveted Easton Community Cup. Tournament organiser Andy Thomas from Kensington Baptist Church said: “It was a successful day with teams from Somali Development Group, Emmanuel Church, Lebeqs, Kensington Baptist Church, the police, Felix Road Adventure Playground, Rolls Royce and a team from the Asian community. Cllr Margaret Hickman presented the cups which were sponsored by Pak Butchers. Thanks to all who helped organise the event not forgetting the referees. We hope to repeat the event next year with 16 teams.” If you want to take part contact Andy on 07824429539.
Winners Somali Development Group
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Up Our Street 11
What is a normal life? In June Up Our Street had the privilege of attending a play by local young people from Easton and Lawrence Hill. My Normal Life was written and performed by pupils from ten different cultural backgrounds who are involved in Integrate Bristol. In past editions we have reported about the amazing work these young people are doing to challenge the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Already they have made an award winning film (Silent Scream), appeared on Newsnight, held a conference for 300 delegates and advised the makers of Casualty about FGM. My Normal Life was the next milestone for these courageous campaigners. The play was performed at The Station in the city centre and the story focused on two feuding families and how their lives were connected. The young people used the story of the two families to talk about issues ranging from the impact of khat, domestic violence, forbidden love and most importantly FGM. The confidence of the young people up on stage, and their bravery for
talking about issues which are extremely taboo, was impressive. FGM is an abusive practice that is illegal in this country but is considered by some to be too culturally sensitive to talk about. It was incredibly moving how the young people in the play continue to bring the issue to light and speak out. The play was both thought provoking and funny. Afterwards young people chaired a debate to discuss the issues raised in the play. Nasiim Ahmed who played Aisha said: "Being in the play was incredible, tackling issues like this by acting them out into real life situations engages with people, making them understand and feel the emotions of what those affected are going through. Providing a visual message is far better than handing people a leaflet to read about these issues. I'd like to go to more schools and perform this play and raise more awareness in that way."
Cast members Nasiim Ahmed and Fahma Mohammed with Mayor George Ferguson (with Sue Mountstevens and Helen Holland in the background)
The cast of My Normal Life with Lord Mayor Faruk Choudhury
Young people at their allotment
To follow the work of Integrate Bristol visit www.integratebristol.org.u k Follow the campaign to stamp out FGM on Twitter #endfgm #FGM @FGMSilentScream
Getting their hands dirty
James Barlow, 18, says: “I like learning to garden and learn new skills and about wildlife and vegetables. The best thing we do is building things. My favourite vegetable is an onion because they taste nice.” Blake Tovey, 18, says: “The best thing is it gets us out of Barton Hill and working as a team. My favourite vegetable is cauliflower.” To find out more about the allotment contact Luis Dias on 07769956012 or l.dias@lpw.org.uk 12
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Same same but different
to the Sikh gurdwara and I felt Rizwan feels the portrayal of Muslims in our media is also part unsure about what to expect. It of the problem. “They focus on a happens to us all!” Back in May, the murder of Lee minority of unpleasant people. Rigby in Woolwich shocked the That sells papers. Being a Muslim nation. After footage of the men doesn’t make you part of one appeared in the media attributing homogenous group. Bristol’s their crimes to Islam, we met up Muslim community is incredibly with Rizwan Ahmed from Bristol diverse with followers from a Muslim Cultural Society to find whole range of backgrounds out about the impact on Bristol’s including Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Muslim community. Somali, Arabs and those who have “The initial reaction among converted to Islam. Some people people I spoke to was dread. are very devout whereas others Every time something like this don’t practice much.” happens there is a spike in attacks A big part of Rizwan’s work is on Muslims. We got out a press about demystifying Islam and release calling for calm and I did a increasing communication. He lot of media interviews. The truth trains around 3500 people a year. is that Bristol is a great city where “We are all different but it’s only a most people are tolerant so what problem when we don’t talk to happens here is minor compared each other to get to know and to other cities in the UK” says understand each other. I call Rizwan. myself a British, Asian Muslim. I’m The 2011 census revealed Lawrence Hill’s population was Immediately following the news, from Bristol. Me, my friends and 30% Muslim, 25% no religion and BMCS released statements online family are like most people - at 32% Christian. Easton’s was 15% home we drink tea, watch TV, to counter rumours already Muslim, 36% Christian and 35% circulating about revenge attacks follow football. We don’t sit no religion. We’re a diverse bunch on mosques and Muslims. “It’s not around plotting how to introduce so we all have to make the effort sharia law to Britain! I have a bit helpful or right to send text to get to know each other. messages and emails around that of a problem with political correctness in the UK. If you want incite fear” says Rizwan. “If you to ask someone a question about You can visit a local mosque on get a message like that, check their religion or life style then ask Diverse Doors Open Day. Contact with us or the police to find out www.bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk the truth. Usually it’s just people - as long as you’re polite then people will be happy to answer. for details. Contact Rizwan on 952 creating more fear and then you are actually helping the cause of We all have preconceptions about 1802 or bmcs@bmcs.org.uk. things. The other day I had to go those trying to create tensions.” Bob Lewis Sadly Bob Lewis passed away in June. Bob worked in Barton Hill for many years and was one of the people to get children’s play recognised as an important element of urban life. He worked for Community at Heart in 2007 and also for Barton Hill Settlement. We wanted to mark Bob’s life and all he achieved for young people in this area. Our condolences to his family.
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Easton and Lawrence Hill poetry competition winners Thank you to everyone who entered our poetry competition. Here are our three winners chosen by our resident Board members.
East of Town By Issara Edwards
Easton By Darnell Ford, age 11
A life of years never Spent or dreamt anywhere but here. An ecology of worlds, an amalgamation Of wills all under a single Sky, a solitary island of community, Art and culture, music and brilliance. All the path and streets here Know my name, recognise the brilliance, Wonder and individuality of every single Breath, every variation in this community. The walls hold memories, an amalgamation Of stories and tales that never Disclose secrets, but hold them here In this thriving, bustling, colourful community. Each tree was planted with brilliance In mind, each seed a single Idea planted by us, an amalgamation Of hands sowing and digging, never Letting fertile and bright community Become bare or barren, for here Beautiful music emanates from every single House. The sound brings loving brilliance A frantic heartbeat and an amalgamation Of songs that harmonise and never End. The air smells sweet here, The smell of cooking that never Leaves you, the powerful, cleansing amalgamation Of incense that warms the community Fires the hearts of every single Person so that only their brilliance Shines through this community that never sleeps. Through this ethnic amalgamation of equal brilliance. Here we are together, a single society.
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Last night I saw a city. Outlined in sparks of fire. Those wreathed lamps made a fantasy Arch, dome and spire. The pale moon stood. I heard, but faint and sweet and far away. A martial band. The voices in the streets, the sound Of laughter from the towers, This is my town. Lawrence Hill by Nadhiir Mohamed, age 8 Lawrence Hill, Lawrence Hill I wish you are here, Maybe I could come there and appear, To pay my bill Up one hill Look at the house, Look at the road, Look at the really big toad. I like all the houses I’ve met but it’s really, really, really wet If Lawrence Hill had a hill Winners below left to right: Issara Edwards, Nadhiir’s mum and Darnell Ford
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being a volunteer presenter on BCfm 93.2 (Latin Window, Tuesdays from 2pm to 3pm).
Hola amigos You might have noticed you’ve been hearing Spanish a lot recently. And not only that but tapas bars and Spanish delis are popping up across the city. Up Our Street caught up with Walter Nunez from Vivir en Bristol and Living Bristol Network to find out more.
Both Walter and Natalia enjoy the lifestyle in Bristol. “I love that there is so much to do right on your door step, it’s great for families and it’s a very green city” says Natalia. Walter agrees “I think it is very good that you reuse and recycle things and have such things as charity shops which we don’t have in Spain. When I “I think there are probably about 15,000 Spanish came to this area I really couldn’t believe the speaking people living in Bristol” says Walter. “They are community here. There is a strong bond and people from Spain but also other Spanish speaking countries in want to participate. I have never been in a room with so Latin America.” Walter himself is from Argentina and many people at a meeting talking about improving the has been in Bristol for four years. He moved to the UK streets and asking me what I think. I don’t like all the after living in Spain with his Spanish wife for 15 years. dog poo though and we are planning to get some As an English teacher she wanted to come and improve volunteers together in the summer to do some her language so the family moved to Bristol where she community clean ups.” Another key part of Walter’s teaches at Bannerman Road Community School and plan is helping people find volunteering opportunities Children’s Centre. so that they can get some experience and practice their “I ran a business in Spain for 12 years and after being English. If anyone reading this could use volunteers a house husband for a year looking after our baby, then Walter would love to hear from you. studying English and then working as a waiter I started Both Walter and Natalia agree that what they miss most Vivir en Bristol.” The inspiration for Walter’s business is their family. In Latin America it is common for the came from his time as a waiter when he met many extended family to be close and all play an important other Spanish people who were highly qualified but role in each others lives. “With Living Bristol Network were doing low skilled work. As the economic situation we wanted to create a little bit of that here” says in Europe has worsened, many young professionals are Natalia. moving to the UK to try and find work and Vivir en Bristol helps with that process. To find out more about Walter and Natalia’s plans for “I’d say about 50% of the people I meet come here to Living Bristol Network contact 230 5993 or find work and 50% to learn English. They are people info@livingbristol.com or for Spanish lessons for who want to make a better life for themselves. Today children visit www.spanishforyourchildren.co.uk you have to know English to do well in a job so people want to learn.” Although in the UK we hear a lot about the recession, compared to other European countries we are in a better position, and in Bristol particularly unemployment is low (in April unemployment in Spain was 27% compared to 8% in the UK. In Spain 57% of under 25s are unemployed). It’s interesting to think that in the past it was retired people from the UK moving to Spain for cheap living and sunshine - proving the economy is instrumental in how people move around the world. Walter’s second project is Living Bristol Network which aims to provide advice and emotional support to Spanish speaking economic migrants. “There are support services for refugees and asylum seekers but not so much for economic migrants. When people first move away from home it can be lonely and there is a lot of paperwork to do in the UK.” After 18 years in the UK, Natalia Iyes knows what they are going through. “I married an English man but I am from Ecuador originally. I know it can be difficult to settle at first and I am still learning! The people I meet at Living Bristol Network always ask me ‘how long will it take to learn English?’ We invite people to come and talk to them who have already been through it so it is reassuring for them that there is light at the end of the tunnel.” Natalia runs Spanish lessons for children as well as
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Join in at J3 In March the doors opened of the new state of the art library for our neighbourhood. J3 was built by the Council in partnership with Knightstone Housing Association and a grant from the Big Lottery. The project was in the planning stages for many years so it’s fantastic to see it open and being used. We met Bristol City Council Libraries Community Engagement Worker, Easton resident and One Love Breakfast favourite Asif Khan to find out more. Has the library been busy? Since we opened we’ve had nearly 1000 new members join the library. J3 replaced the old Trinity Road library. We felt that there weren’t as many people using that area any more and it was just on a busy road rather than being in a community. Originally we wanted a library on Stapleton Road as that community had never had a library close by but we couldn’t find suitable land. In the end a combination of funding coming up and local need meant we went for the J3 site.
What is special about J3? It’s a really iconic building - you can see it from the road and it really stands out. It’s a great hub for other activity and makes the underpass feel safer. Today I am setting up for an exhibition about multicultural Shakespeare. [Up Our Street can confirm the hustle and bustle at J3 as competition winners from Bannerman Road school come to have their photos taken with J3 Gromit!]. The public can access free computers here, there are talks and exhibitions. We know that there is demand for quiet space where students can revise so we’re looking into how we accommodate that.
What’s your favourite book? I am involved in organising Yardstick festival of contemporary Black writing and I was at Africa Writes in London recently so at the moment I’m reading A Grain of Wheat by Ngugi Wa Thiong’o which is about the Kenyan independence movement.
What’s coming up in libraries this autumn? This year Bristol celebrates 400 years of having a public library so we have been putting on a whole programme of events. In November we are having a Dr Who day with Bristol resident Cavan Scott who wrote Whology. On 16 October to commemorate Why are libraries still important the Bristol Bus Boycott we’re when so much is online? hosting a talk by Stephen Biko Good question! Libraries are still about boycotts in South Africa. J3 important as they get people out has a wide selection of books of their homes. You can’t always more than you can see on the trust sources online so libraries shelves – in community languages are good for academic study as as well as non fiction and audio well. If you’re browsing in a library books and a children’s library so you’re more likely to look at pop in and pay us a visit. something new that you wouldn’t have seen online. To find out more contact 922 3001 or visit www.bristol.gov.uk/library
Asif Khan with Gromit in J3 16
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Life’s leaders ... Women at the helm
Why did you go into teaching?
Gill Kelly, Principal of City Academy Being Principal of City Academy must be an interesting job. What do you find most rewarding?
What I find most rewarding is seeing students joining our Academy and flourishing. What is most incredible is the fact that we have students coming to the school who are from a variety of backgrounds and starting points, but all of them go on to make outstanding educational progress.
What has been the biggest challenge since you took over the post?
On arriving at the Academy, I had to make decisions very quickly about its future and how we were going to build on the legacy left by the previous Principal, Dr Ray Priest, whilst at the same time raising educational standards. I could see that changes to school leadership structures had to happen. Without a doubt, this was a huge task, but it has resulted in an increase in educational achievements, with our 5A*+-C measure increasing from 34% to 42%, it is set to be at 48% this summer, increasing to 62% the following year. Children are being taught English and Mathematics in a refined way which helps them achieve more.
I left business (I was an Art Gallery Manager) as I felt that there was no moral purpose to selling art. I joined the teaching profession in 1992 and have never looked back. Then, as now, I wanted to nurture the very best out of young people and make them see that all things are possible with a bit of hard work, determination and ambition.
What are your aspirations for the school and its students?
My aspirations for the Academy and its students are to be the highest performing Academy in Bristol, and to be a strong member of the One World Learning Trust which comprises of local primary and secondary schools. Our vision is to work with Easton and Lawrence Hill’s educational provision, and improve the service for the local area.
How do you see the relationship between the school and the community that surrounds it?
The Academy and Trust are inextricably linked with the local community. Our sports facilities are let to community groups throughout the year, and we regularly hold events in the main school campus. We have a responsibility to serve the community, and the community has a responsibility to support its local schools.
The role must be very high pressured. What do you do to relax?
I am fortunate in that I have a loving family who What three words would you use to describe the keep me very busy and distracted, but other than that I love to read, walk, and make things around school? the home. I am also convinced of the power of Ambition, focus, vitality and a cheeky fourth: laughter to help you relax, so I try to bring as much growth. humour in to my life as possible through family, What is the school’s biggest strength? friends and colleagues. Our greatest strength is forming relationships, knowing and understanding children and their Do you know any inspiring women we should needs thereby providing an outstanding education. interview next time? Contact Stacy on 377 3638.
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Life is a journey In 2013 Emmaus celebrates its tenth anniversary in Bristol. With an Emmaus shop in Barton Hill and their main base in Old Market they are an important part of the Easton and Lawrence Hill neighbourhood. We caught up with Business Manager Malcolm Thorne to find out a bit more about Emmaus and how they are planning to celebrate. Emmaus is a national organisation with 24 branches in the UK and almost 400 worldwide. Malcom has worked with Emmaus for ten years so has been a part of the Bristol operation since day one. “If I was going to describe Emmaus I’d call it a residential, working community for men and women who were homeless. People are referred to us if they have been homeless. Those who join us become ‘Companions’ and work in the community house, on vehicles, in the warehouse or shops. The business side of Emmaus is selling second hand furniture, clothes and household goods which has the added benefit of offering low cost home wares to local people.” Today Emmaus is a secular organisation (not religious) but it was founded by a priest in Paris in 1949. Abbe Pierre wanted to help those who were homeless. He didn’t have lots of cash but there was a lot of work to be done. He offered homeless people food and shelter in return for work and he invited them to accompany him on his quest to alleviate poverty and hunger - Emmaus was born. The name comes from the ‘Road to Emmaus’ story in the Bible where the Disciples travel the road accompanied by Jesus. So the idea of companionship and life as a journey is a strong message in the organisation. “Over the ten years we’ve probably helped hundreds of people. We have about 21 people with us at the moment. I really believe we have a big impact on people’s lives, whether that means the person finds a job, moves into independent living
or has a routine for the first time in years - all are equally important.” “I think over the next ten years we will see demand for our service continue to grow. More people are vulnerable to homelessness, the quality of affordable accommodation out there isn't good and also as benefits are cut this will impact on who can claim housing benefit. We would like to increase the number of people we can help.” To celebrate a decade of the Emmaus community being in Bristol, the team is organising a family event and you’re all invited on Saturday 7 September, 11am to 4pm at Hannah More Primary School playing field, New Kingsley Road. The event will be opened by Emmaus national President Terry Waite and there will be games, music, BBQ, furniture for sale and more, thanks to funding from the Endowment Fund. Tony Bramley, a Companion for two years adds: “It will be great to see everyone at the event as Emmaus is for the whole community not just Companions.” To find out more about Emmaus pop into their shops on Avonvale Road, Barton Hill or Barton Manor, Midland Road. Contact 954 0886.
Malcolm and Tony in the warehouse off Midland Road
household bills and rent payments. Benefit and grant entitlements can be checked, as well as how to plan for the longer term and coping with Social housing tenants can now get help to changing circumstances. Pennywise Mentors manage their finances more effectively. are available for immediate appointments. They Pennywise offers free budgeting advice and will also be running a series of workshops support to social housing tenants who are over covering tips on energy saving, utility bills 25, and either in their first social housing explained, how to be a savvy shopper and tasty tenancy, or moving in or out of work. The free cookery on a budget. To book an appointment confidential advice and one-to-one support with a Pennywise Mentor ask your landlord to covers all aspects of managing finances, from complete a form, or contact them directly on opening bank accounts to budgeting for 970 4548 pennywise@placesforpeople.co.uk
Rubbish with money?
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Up Our Street
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To Let 1 Stapleton Road , Easton Prominent Ground Floor Retail Unit Approx 1200 sq ft Available from October 2013 Contact Mani Chauhan MRICS Tel: 07814272929 Rosemary Early Years Centre - Learning together, growing together Do you receive Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance (Income Based) or Child Tax Credits? If so you may be entitled to a free nursery place Rosemary Early Years, rated Outstanding by Ofsted, has places available in September for two year old children. Children will be offered a range of three sessions a week. Morning sessions available Monday to Friday 8.15 – 12.15, afternoon sessions Monday to Thursdays 1.00 – 5.00. “An oasis of care” – Ofsted 2013 Please contact the Centre for further information. Rosemary Early Years Centre Haviland House, Great Ann Street, St Judes, Bristol BS2 0DT Tel 0117 9031467 www.rosemary.bristol.sch.uk email rosemary.n@bristol.gov.uk ADVERTS
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CALL 377 3638 TO DISCUSS REACHES 13,500 LOCAL HOMES
The Walled Garden is a community garden in Barton Hill. It is developing its Friday open day to make it useful and accessible to local residents. If you'd like to volunteer your time to help create a vibrant community space, come along on a Friday between 10.30am and 3.30pm. Call Zoë on 07908171789 for more information. The Walled Garden, 60 Barton Hill Road, BS5 0AW.
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When you get the call: GO! Everyone is at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes or kidney disease. But these diseases can often be prevented, and NHS Health Check can help you by assessing your risk and giving you personalised advice on how to reduce it. If you receive an invitation letter to an NHS Health Check, go to your GP practice and get checked. For more information please contact your local practice or go online to: http://www.bristolccg.nhs.uk/your-health -local-services/your-health/healthchecks.aspx ADVERTS
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Great artwork under M32 by Uri Green part of Stapleton Road Festival of Migration (www.urigreen.es)