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BCfm from the beach
Up Our Street is produced by Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management. Tel: 0117 903 9975 Post: The Old Bank, 108 Church Road, Bristol, BS5 9LJ contact@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Twitter: @upourstreet Facebook: Up Our Street Charity no: 1081691 Company no: 04023294 Neighbourhood Facilitator Lorena Alvarez Tel: 377 3640 Finance and Office Manager Tracy Parsons Tel: 903 9975 Communications Officer Stacy Yelland Tel: 377 3638 Neighbourhood Manager Penny Germon Tel: 903 9879 Up Our Street is printed on recycled paper with vegetable inks and can be composted. It costs Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management 60p to produce every copy of Up Our Street. It is hand delivered to 14,000 homes in the local area. The opinions and information contained in this publication are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management.
From 13 to 19 June, BCfm and Ujima One Love Breakfast will be broadcasting live from Rio de Janeiro during the football World Cup. They will be meeting the people of Rio, as well as supporters from around the world, to capture the sights and sounds of football’s biggest party. Tune in from 7am to 10am, Monday to Friday on 93.2fm or on www.bcfmradio.com Correction In the spring edition we published an article about Shared Lives. We included the wrong phone number for Care Direct. The correct number is 0117 922 2700. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.
CONTACT 0117 377 3638 TO DISCUSS ADVERTISING IN UP OUR STREET Listen to Up Our Street on BCfm 93.2, every Wednesday at 8.45am Follow us @upourstreet or find us on Facebook
Inside this issue Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management....page 3 Neighbourhood Forum..................page 4 Cashmore Nursery...........................page 6 Interview with Muna Abdi.............page 7 Student community event............page 8 Thank You Awards...........................page 9 2
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East Bristol Bakery..................................page 11 Church Avenue garden........................page 12 Welcome to SPAN.................................page 14 Getting trains on track.........................page 16 Greenbank cycling.................................page 17 Easton Arts Trail......................................page 18 Arts West Side ........................................page 19 Advertising.........................................page 20-24 www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Sally Caseley, Chair Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management
“Since the last newsletter, I was privileged to receive a Lord Mayor’s Medal for my voluntary work in our community. It was amazing to be recognised alongside many other community volunteers and made me realise just how much is going on in our city to make us proud. Easton and Lawrence Hill in particular are full of dedicated community activists, volunteers and caring neighbours. At Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management we like to celebrate that and you can find a nomination form for this year’s Thank You Awards on page nine. Now summer is here our calendar is packed with festivals, fun days and events happening in our neighbourhood and beyond. To keep up-to-date you can receive our fortnightly email bulletin by contacting stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk As always I hope you enjoy reading our newsletter and we welcome your feedback.”
Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management has had a busy few months as always and here are a few snaps. Above: Resident board members Mike Pickering, Sally Caseley and Richard Curtis receiving their Lord Mayor’s Medal for volunteering. Right: Easter egg and treasure hunt in the Urban Park. M Shed and Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management present
YOU MAKE BRISTOL OUTDOOR PHOTO EXHIBITION
13 to 29 JUNE See page 21 for details Who are we? Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Management is a small, independent community organisation which helps residents make positive changes where they live. We produce this newsletter, organise events and carry out projects. We also organise the Neighbourhood Forum on behalf of Bristol City Council. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Redcliffe News Thanks to the Wellbeing Fund, we are running a series of special meetings focused on all things Redcliffe. Thursday 10 July, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Methodist Hall, Prewett Street Contact Lorena on 377 3640
Report issues Free micro-chipping for dogs in Urban Park to encourage responsible dog ownership
Bristol City Council (fly tipping, litter, bins) - 0117 922 2100 Bristol City Council (noise, anti-social behaviour) - 0117 922 2500 www.bristol.gov.uk
Meeting dates The Neighbourhood Forum is your community meeting where you can find out about important local developments, key decisions being made and is a chance to meet your neighbours. Why not come along? Wednesday 2 July Hannah More Primary School, BS2 0LT Wednesday 3 September Easton Community Centre, BS5 6AW Both meetings 6.30pm to 8.30pm Contact Stacy on 377 3638 or stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Ashley, Easton and Lawrence Hill Neighbourhood Partnership The NP makes decisions about how to spend some public money in our neighbourhood. It is made up of local residents and Councillors. It also helps the council decide what to prioritise and where to focus its work. At the meeting in March the NP made some decisions including: Agreeing three new members Muna Abdi, Mohamed Mohamoud and Abdi Mohamed. Traffic schemes for 2014-2015 £15,000 to implement parking restrictions in Redfield north following consultation last year and £4,000 for a design study for a crossing on Devon Road. Wellbeing Fund Approved grants from 2013-2014 and allocated £20,000 for two funding rounds in 2014-2015. Deadline for second round is 15 August. Public debates £1,200 set aside to hold two public debates. The next NP meeting is on 24 June. For more information visit www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk or call 903 9975.
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Tackling the things that matter to the neighbourhood Neighbourhood priorities 2014 Littering, dog fouling, parking on pavements, graffiti tagging and cycling on pavements.
Inconsiderate cycling and theft of bikes Police and council officers have held cycling surgeries talking to 300 cyclists on the early morning commute into town on Trinity Street and St Philips Road. If you register your bike on www.immobilise.com you have a much better chance of getting it back. Litter, graffiti and dog poo There have been successful campaigns with Crimestoppers to catch frequent taggers with two people appearing in court. Regular checks of the Railway Path have reduced reports of dog fouling and the council has been spraying the ground with warning signs to dog owners. Come to the Neighbourhood Forum to find out more.
Railway path for all We are very lucky to have a fantastic route from Bristol to Bath running right through our neighbourhood. It is a great space for commuting or for leisure and is enjoyed by many people. Those of you who use the path regularly will have noticed it has got a lot busier over the last few years. This is great as it means more people are walking and cycling which is good for our health and the environment. It does mean that the path can be crowded and some cyclists go very fast. The Railway Path is not a cycle path - it is a shared space for pedestrians and bikes and includes crossing points for two local schools. We ask all cyclists to please watch your speed and be considerate of others when using the path. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Roads, pavements and parking Westminster Road and Stepney Place This scheme to slow speeding traffic is awaiting final decision from Councillors. Two different schemes have been drawn up and consulted on following objections from residents. Parking restrictions around Beam Street and Avonvale Road (Redfield) New double yellow lines at junctions aim to improve parking and traffic flow. Residents’ Parking Scheme This is in St Philips, The Dings, Newtown, Old Market and around Stapleton Road and the side streets (Trinity Road end). Lines were painted in April and signs went up in May so this is now legally enforceable. Non residents can use pay and display and can get 30 minutes free - you must get a ticket. For more information visit www.bristol.gov.uk and search for residents’ parking. Cash for potholes Bristol has been awarded £342,000 from the Department of Transport to tackle the city’s pothole problem. Report potholes on www.bristol.gov.uk or 922 2100. Up Our Street
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Cashmore comes back to life For the past eight years, the children’s nursery attached to Cashmore House on Bright Street, Barton Hill has been standing empty and falling into gradual disrepair. It was closed at the same time as the old Barton Hill Primary School on Queen Ann Road when the new school and children’s centre was built. The idea at the time was that all the provision for local children would be run from the new purpose built school. In the years since, the local population has grown massively and demand for nursery places now outstrips supply. Last year the government introduced 15 hours of free childcare a week for the lowest income families, but in Barton Hill parents were not accessing their free entitlement due to lack of available places. It was obvious something needed to be done, and that’s where St Philips Marsh Nursery School comes in. “We run a really thriving nursery school in St Philips Marsh with 175 children coming from The Dings, Barton Hill, St George and further afield. I knew about the Cashmore site as my children used to come here years ago. We’ve never been busier at St Philips Marsh so knowing about the demand
for places we felt that we had something we could offer” says Simon Holmes, head teacher at St Philips Marsh for the past seven years. The nursery approached Bristol City Council with a proposal for taking over the Cashmore Nursery and re-opening it to provide much needed childcare in Barton Hill. “The council has been very supportive and we were successful in securing funding to bring the building back into use. We are really excited about being in this community. Barton Hill has very close historic links with St Philips Marsh and this is a really great space so it just makes sense” adds Simon. The plan is to have the nursery open in September 2014 with places for up to 40 children including a fantastic outdoor play area. “When this was built in the 1960s the concept was of ‘neighbourhood nurseries’ where children were at the heart of the community. We want to bring that ethos back and it’s really important to us to link with the community around us and create a place where children feel valued, respected and safe. We have exciting plans and want to work with parents and local organisations. We’ll be having an opening event in September so I look forward to meeting our local community then.” If you want to find out more about whether you are entitled to free nursery care for your children contact the Family Information Service on 0845 129 7217. To find out more about St Philips Marsh Nursery School or plans for Cashmore Nursery contact Simon and his team on 977 6171.
Garden at Cashmore Nursery, outside the building, deputy Denise Draper and head teacher Simon Holmes
Rosemary Early Years is now a children’s centre
and around St Judes. They also run a nursery for three and four year olds, This means they can counselling and offer more free parenting classes and nursery places for two much more. Contact year olds and parent 903 1467 to see how support for families in they can help you. 6
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Playing Out on your street? Do you have children? Would you like them to be able to play out on your street? You can apply to close your road once a week or once a month so children can take over. Contact Lorena on 377 3640 if you’d like to try Playing Out where you live. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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learn how things work here so I could help my family and others and also to return the help my family got. What do you want the Somali Forum to do? I want the Somali Forum and Somali people to be part of Bristol and to take a more positive role in the city and make partnerships with people and organisations. I want us to be a part of life in this city. We can’t just stick in our own community – we need to work with others and make change happen. It’s a two way thing and we have to play our part. We can’t always wait for people to approach us – we have to approach them. Muna receiving a Lord Mayor’s Medal from Lord Mayor Faruk Choudhury and his wife Shilpi Choudhury
What do you think about the role of women in the community? Women are very practical and they get things done. Inspirational women - Muna Abdi I want things to happen so I do my best to be at Continuing our series on inspiring women, we met every meeting I can. I want to make the Somali Muna Abdi, chair of Bristol Somali Forum and Forum more interesting for younger people and community activist, to find out what motivates her. especially young women. Women can feel trapped Tell us a bit about yourself at home and like they can’t take part. I want to My name is Muna Abdi Mohamed but I just call show them that it is possible – even with my myself Muna Abdi as there are lots of Mohameds broken accent I can do it. I want them to feel that around! I have been living in Bristol for 23 years so they are Bristolian and they can and should I call myself a Bristolian. I was one of the founder’s contribute to the city where they live. My mother of Somali Women’s Voice on BCfm and have been really inspires me. She came from a wealthy doing community work for about four years. When background in Somaliland to be a refugee with my kids were young I didn’t have as much time but nothing and had to set up a new life. She is very now they are older I wanted to do something to brave. I remember our house was always open to make Bristol a bit better. For years I was helping in other people in the same situation. People could the community as a link worker or translator but come together to comfort each other and give without a set title but in July last year I was elected support during a difficult time. as the chair of the Somali Forum. What is an average day for you? What motivates you? When we came to Bristol my family was very reliant on the help of others. It was hard to adjust, the weather was freezing and we didn’t know the language. My mum and my siblings had to wait for help from people so from an early age I learnt how important it is to help others if you can. I wanted to
There is never an average day! It’s crazy! II get up early early, get the kids ready, go to work and go to meetings at lunchtime and after work. It is hard work but it is making a difference. I can tell I am being listened to, I am starting to see a change. I think I am changing the way people think about Somali women.
The future of the Chocolate Factory
The residents - by Jane Minton “We are a group of residents working together for The developer - by Paul Erskine the last year to monitor the site and share any Generator South West LLP has acquired the former information with local people. In the winter we Elizabeth Shaw Chocolate Factory site in Greenbank surveyed the community via a questionnaire and from the administrators to Square Peg Homes Ltd we’ll be turning the results into a community plan. and is committed to working with the local Past experience tells us to be wary of the community to bring forward a commercially viable developer’s consultation process, but don't let that scheme to redevelop the site. A website has been stop you from airing your views - that same past launched to provide information and gather experience also tells us about the power of local feedback from the local community. You can have action and the importance of an open debate in the your say at www.chocolatefactorybristol.com media and online.” For more information visit You can also call Paul Erskine on 01225 422243. https://sites.google.com/site/chocolatefactorybristol/ www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Left to right: Nabid, Sarwat, Hassan, Samad, Lisa, Jamal, Hannah, Bahar, Natalie and Sharmin. Inset: at the event in Trinity.
Learning more outside the classroom
Tackling gender stereotypes
In March we met a group of eight young people from City Academy who organised a great community event. The idea came about as part of an extra-curricular project run by Envision, which aims to encourage young people to get involved in their local community. Samad Rizvi, 18, told us more: “We had the idea of an event which brought all the community together. We did some research and we found out that people don’t mix as much as they could so we wanted to do an event. We had to prepare a presentation and apply for funding. We were successful and got £400 from Envision. We are a group from all different backgrounds and it was really fun learning how to put on the event as we each had different jobs. I think more young people should do things in their community as it is important.” Natalie from Envision adds: “The day was fantastic with powerful speakers about why race equality is important and music from Love Music Hate Homophobia. The group really got excited and put so much into it, it was a real success.”
Natalie is also involved in a second project which aims to combat negative gender stereotyping in the media. TIGER (Teaching Individuals Gender Equality and Respect) brings together young people to think more critically about what gender is and could be in our culture. Natalie says: “When 87% of 11 to 12 year olds think that women are judged on their looks more than their ability, and when in the UK there are three times as many male suicides as female then we have to ask what is going on here. We look at how gender in the media impacts on young people’s lives and the way they think about themselves and others.” TIGER would like to work with more schools in Bristol. Contact tigerbristol@riseup.net Left to right: Laura, Ailsa, Alex and Natalie
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Nominations open for annual Thank You Awards Each year we organise a celebration event to say thank you to all the fantastic residents who make our neighbourhood a better place. We are inviting you to nominate your neighbours or friends who give that bit extra to make a difference. They and you will be invited to a special event on Thursday 23 October with our Lord Mayor and local celebrities BCfm’s Pat Hart and Sherrie Eugene-Hart. Nominate today!
Support from local businesses We are looking for donations from local businesses to help us fund this year’s awards. If you could help us we’d love to hear from you. We’d like to say a big thank you to the organisations who have already pledged us their support. If you are interested contact Stacy on 377 3638 or stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
New for 2014 Local business award Would you like to say thank you to a local business that goes above and beyond for the community? Nominate them for the Best Local Business Award. The winner will be chosen by our resident board.
Best Local Business Award is sponsored by Bristol Spaceworks
www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Sunday 10 August 12pm to 6pm, Eastville Park We caught up with Bristol Muslim Cultural Society who organise the annual Islamic Fayre to find out more about why the event attracts thousands of people from Easton, Lawrence Hill and beyond. Why do you organise the festival? We organise the festival to bring Muslim and non Muslim people together to enjoy a family fun day for the community.
Gurdwara opens its gates Just outside Redfield you may have noticed a big red building that plays a vital role in the lives of hundreds of local people. The Sikh Gurdwara on Church Road was brought by the Sikh community in 1991. A former grammar school, it had been left derelict, and as Santokh Sandhu tells us, had been used as a pigeon hotel. “The place was in a bad
Who is involved? We have an events team of 10 people who organise the event but we also have around 50 young volunteers who help us during the advertising and set up of the event. How long has it been running? The Islamic Cultural Fayre is held every year. We are now on our 15th annual Fayre What is your favourite part of the day? Our favourite part of the day is when we see the community come together as a whole to watch the entertainment on stage. Why do you think it’s important to hold events like this? It brings people from our local community together to enjoy a wonderful place and atmosphere. We have around 12,000 attendees every year all from different religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. For more information visit www.bmcs.org.uk
state and the repair costs us thousands of pounds. Every window was smashed and the place was full of pigeons. We raised all the money ourselves and we are continuing to improve the building so more of the community can use it” says Santokh. Santokh is secretary of the Gurdwara and also a member of the British Indian Association. He plays a key role in bringing together the Sikh community with others. Gurdwaras are places of worship for Sikhs but are also open to the whole community for food and other activities. The building hosts regular services and out of school classes and has a large kitchen. On Thursdays they make a meal for anyone over 60 and Up Our Street can vouch for the fact that it is delicious! “We want more people to use our building. We are putting in a lift and modernising things. 60 students come here to do extra lessons and someone runs a keep fit class. When we have a Sikh wedding up to 300 people can be here!” If you would like to visit the Gurdwara or are interested in booking space you can call chairman Mr Dulay on 07523808660 or treasurer Mr Bassi on 07872965161.
Dealing with dementia Volunteer Bristol at Voscur wants to encourage people with dementia to be active in their communities through supported volunteering. The project is for Easton and Lawrence Hill residents, including people awaiting a dementia diagnosis, supported by volunteer mentors. Register your interest as either a supported volunteer or volunteer mentor by contacting Subitha Baghirathan on 989 7734 or subitha@volunteerbristol.org.uk 10
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Easton’s sourdough superstar
cultures. I do make my own style of bread but our The thought of 4.30am starts everyday would make customers are from all different backgrounds.” East Bristol Bakery has had an impressive year, winning most people think twice, but if you want to make awards for its cakes and bread and now makes your living as a baker you better get used to the idea! We met Alex Poulter, owner and baker behind about 1,000 loaves a week. “My proudest moment is every morning when the bread comes out the St Mark’s Road’s East Bristol Bakery to find out oven and we start a new day. I have no plans to more about his experience of starting out on his expand or leave the area. I want to keep making own. high quality bread for the local community.” “Before opening the shop, I had no professional East Bristol Bakery, 112 St Mark’s Road is open baking experience. Making bread was my hobby 9am to 7pm, Tuesday to Friday and from 9am to but friends started asking me for bread and I realised I could make a go of it. I spent some time when they sell out on Saturday. shadowing bakers and then the shop came up on St Mark’s Road and I couldn’t turn it down.” Then came the hard work. Alex had to raise the funds to lease the shop and buy the expensive equipment needed to bake on a professional scale. “It was a lot of hard work and I borrowed money wherever I could. I definitely didn’t have a nice pot of cash ready in the bank! My advice to others would be to be prepared for hard work – you’ve got to love it. There are organisations like Outset Bristol that can give you free advice and help. Talk to other businesses and do your research.” Alex has been living in Easton for three years and says there’s nowhere else he’d rather be. “I opened here Left to right: Leonie, Alex, Nikki, Jack and Polly because I felt it was the kind of community which would support a local bakery. I got great support Baker’s tip from places like Sweetmart and as soon as we Buy loaves that are slightly charred on the outside. opened we had a loyal customer base. Easton’s This is when the sugars in the bread have diversity is great and bread is universal across all caramelised which gives the crust the best taste.
Foodbank demand grows Cuts to welfare and lack of job opportunities have hit some families in Easton and Lawrence Hill hard and more and more people have been turning to East Bristol Foodbank for help. The Foodbank offers food bags to people with vouchers issued by support services. Our local Foodbank helps on average 150 people a week who have no money to buy food for themselves and their families. If you find yourself facing a financial crisis you can apply to the council’s local crisis and prevention fund (call 0800 923 0101 or visit www.bristol.gov.uk). Foodbanks only give food to people holding a voucher. Vouchers are provided by more than 130 agencies including Bristol City Council, Citizens Advice Bureau, St Pauls Advice Centre and Easton Job Centre Plus. East Bristol Foodbank has three outlets, two in our area and one in Kingswood. If you’d like to donate food you can visit one of the drop in sessions or email ebfoodbank@yahoo.co.uk and they will send you details of how to donate. www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Music and arts festival organised by Redfield residents Saturday 2 August St George Park Theme for 2014 - Garden Party www.redfestbristol.co.uk Is Bristol a dementia friendly city? Friday 13 June, 10am to 2pm, Brunelcare Saffron Gardens, Prospect Place A road show event which is open to anybody with an interest in, or experience of, dementia. Contact Tony Hall on 07849403018 to book a place. Up Our Street
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Caring for unloved spaces Louise Hayes has been living on Church Avenue for 24 years. Sarah Moore has been living on the street for 12 years. They both say that one of the reasons they’ve stayed on the road so long is the great sense of community spirit and a symbol of that spirit is the transformation of an unloved grassy area full of dumped rubbish and dog poo into a place for play and peace. “About six years ago a few of us decided to tackle the abandoned area at the end of Church Avenue. It was overgrown, full of dumped rubbish and used mainly as a dog toilet. With a little bit of help from a local fund we cleared it, built planters and painted a mural. I remember on a rainy winter day ten of us came out and spent a day sorting it out” says Louise. “We must have filled about three bags with dog poo, it was horrible but what was great was that everyone came together” adds Sarah. Since then the residents have turned the area into a place for play with stepping stones and a tyre mountain. New willow fencing has stopped dogs running in and they have used the space for fireworks, carol singing and egg hunts. The group were recently awarded £1,000 from the Wellbeing Fund to add some new plants. “We have plans for a mosaic and tree trunks for play. We hope to be part of Easton Arts Trail this year as well” says Louise. “It is hard work but it gives us pride in where we live. We have been looking at other places and thinking about what we could do to help. Easton is changing and we don’t want it to change into somewhere we don’t want to live, so we are doing our bit to look after it. It gives us the feeling we can do something to make a difference” adds Sarah. You can find Friends of Church Ave Community Garden on Facebook. Photo: Louise, Sarah and friends of Church Avenue garden. 12
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learn from each other and Get green fingers at Easton Community Garden bring books along when they’re not sure what to do. It’s good to wear strong shoes and a waterproof jacket. You don’t have to come every week. Each gardener can be involved as little or as much as they like. On your first visit you may want to come and just look around, have a cup of tea and a chat. The garden is down the lane between Open every Thursday houses 58 and 60 on Gordon 12pm till 5pm Road. There is an allotment Easton’s Community Garden site on your right but they are welcomes people who’d like to a bit further down on your left learn how to grow fruit and behind a green fence. vegetables. They work together in a relaxed and For more information visit: www.eastoncommunitygarden.org.uk sociable way. No previous experience is necessary - they www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Park people power Is there a park near you that needs a bit of love? Do you walk past empty spaces which no one seems to care for? We have been supporting residents to come together with others to look after our green spaces and shared places. We are particularly looking for residents who live near Bannerman Road Park and Albion Road Park (Roman Road). If you have ideas and energy to make a change contact Lorena on 377 3640 or lorena@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
Above left: Friends of Bellevue Park on a spring clean day in the park. Bottom left: Residents of Berwick Road making planters up for their street. Street party capital of the UK Over 150 streets across the city hold street parties every year, and residents in the neighbourhoods of Easton and Lawrence Hill have held at least 40 in recent years. The map (bottom left) shows the streets that have helped their neighbours’ get together. This is more than any other community in the country according to Streets Alive, an organisation which helps residents start parties. Big or small, it’s a great opportunity to get to know your neighbours, and it is easier than you think. There’s lots of help on the Streets Alive website and you can borrow road signs and bunting from Easton Community Centre. This year we’d like to help six streets in Easton and Lawrence Hill to put on a street party for the first time. Contact lorena@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk or 377 3640 if you are interested.
For lots of useful information visit: www.streetparty.org.uk/bristol www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Cafe, childcare, courses and caring Easton and Lawrence Hill are home to many long standing community organisations who help some of those most in need of support. One such group, is Single Parent Action Network (SPAN) which has been going strong since 1990. In 2012, SPAN merged with Silai for Skills to create a busy new community hub. We caught up with SPAN’s Director, Tove Samzelius, to find out more. “One of our main aims is to help parents improve their opportunities by being able to take part in learning. Last year we helped nearly 600 parents take part in courses. What makes us different is that we offer free or low cost childcare which enables parents to come and learn.” SPAN has been working with City of Bristol College to offer taster sessions and involve local women in art projects. “As well as our courses, we also campaign on issues which affect single parents, such as cost and availability of childcare. That’s our biggest challenge - keeping the crèche open.” As well as the crèche, courses, fathers’ support and a nursery, SPAN has also opened Silai Cafe, which is available
Silai Cafe in full swing to hire in the evenings. “I’d like more people to use our building - we aren’t just for parents. I think someone could run a pop-up restaurant using our cafe and we have a hair and beauty salon which could be better used.” You can contact SPAN on 951 4231 or visit their new website www.spanuk.org.uk or for parents you can get advice on www.onespace.org.uk Volunteer vacancy
Garden Share Coordinator The Friendly Garden Share Project puts owners of underused gardens who would like to share their space in touch with local growers who need a garden. In return the gardener shares some of the food they grow. The project needs volunteers to help bring gardeners and garden owners together. Contact Chris on 07792394271 or visit www.friendlygardenshare.org.uk
New building at Barton Hill Settlement due for completion By Paul Simpson
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“The redevelopment of the farmhouse building at Barton Hill Settlement will be completed in early June. The building has been completely refurbished internally with the amount of space increased on the courtyard side and an extra storey and lift added to make the building fully accessible. The Ducie Road facade remains as it was, to reflect the wishes of local people who did not want the old building demolished. The main entrance will be greatly improved with signposting to the increasing services offered at the Settlement. Once completed the building will be home to NHS teams offering health related services for children and families.” Contact 955 6971 to find out more.
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Walking the way to health
mental health charity Rethink but they are now independent and supporting each other to Sometimes it is easy to forget that the simple continue being involved in the group. “If you are things in life can make us feel more able to deal home alone you are stewing on your thoughts. It’s with difficult situations. Wild Walks for Wellbeing is good to be out and be active. At first I wondered if a weekly walking group for people who have I would like being told where to walk and being in experienced mental illness. The idea is simple yet a group but it has been really good” says Andrew. effective. Through exercise, seeing nature and If you think you could benefit from joining a enjoying the company of others in a safe and welcoming environment, people begin to feel a lot walking group you can speak to your GP or visit better. We met Andrew, Steve and Brian to find out www.walkingforhealth.org.uk about their experiences. “After my dad died I was Left to right: Andrew, Steve and Brian feeling very low but the group really helped me. I was finding it hard to go out but I have made friends and I really enjoy it” says Steve. All three are now group leaders, taking others out on the walks. “We have a group of about 15 and the walks are about 1.5 hours around different routes in Bristol and beyond” adds Brian. Being part of the group has helped Andrew to build confidence about meeting new people. “Although I have usually avoided group walking as I like to plan my own, I have found this to be a very positive experience which has led to other opportunities” says Andrew. “We hope that after being part of the group, people will feel happier about going out alone or using the bus” adds Brian. Brian, Steve and Andrew’s group got together as part of a project by
Three decades of children’s entertainment
In 1984, two teachers decided they wanted to bring theatre into schools in Bristol. So, fitting everything they could into a suitcase, Travelling Light Theatre was born. In 2014 the company is celebrating its 30th anniversary and for the last four years, they have been based at Barton Hill Settlement. Fran Ewins and Georgina Trevor told us more.
Light as two of their staff were awarded MBEs for services to children’s theatre, the organisation was nominated for an Olivier award and won an Offie award for their production of Cinderella in partnership with the Tobacco Factory Theatre in Southville. “Although we tour our shows all over the country and abroad, our roots are very much here in Barton Hill, and I’d say about 50% of the children we work with are from this area” adds Georgina. The company is currently performing How Cold My Toes, a dance-theatre piece that takes children on a magical journey through the seasons, as well as putting on theatre summer schools and a birthday event in June. “We hope to carry on producing high quality theatre for the next 30 years” says Fran.
How Cold My Toes is being shown “Our logo is a suitcase because originally that was from 2 to 6 July at Tobacco Factory, all we had – what would fit in a suitcase. Now we North Street. See the back page for employ permanent staff of six plus numerous details of their 30th anniversary freelance artists who run a whole range of different event on 8 June. theatre projects from our courses and summer schools to professional performances for children” You can find out more by calling 377 3166 or says Fran. 2013 was a stand out year for Travelling visit www.travellinglightheatre.org.uk www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Getting our trains on track Many of us get frustrated about the quality of public transport in our city and beyond. In our area we are lucky to have two local train stations, Lawrence Hill and Stapleton Road, which link us to our main railway station and other parts of the city. However, platforms on both these stations are not accessible for wheelchair users, and although things have improved in recent years, there is still a long way to go before everyone in our community has equal access to the bus and rail network. We met David Redgewell, a member of Old Market Community Association and a transport lobbyist, to find out more. “I worked in transport for 30 years before I had my stroke four and a half years ago. After that my life changed and I began to question why there were places I couldn’t go because the transport service was not accessible. I believe that I should have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else so I became an advisor to First Group and First Great Western about how to improve the bus and rail network for disabled travellers.” David has campaigned hard for investment in upgrading the systems in Bristol and beyond. The Equalities Act 2010 put pressure on government to spend the cash needed to bring our rail and bus networks up to standard under the Access for All programme.
David Redgewell One of David’s fears was that this money would be lost in the recent cuts to the public sector. “I have spoken in parliament and met Ministers and made as much of a noise as I can. I don’t care about being unpopular as long as things keep improving for disabled passengers so I was really pleased that this budget wasn’t lost. Bristol’s Mayor has also been really committed to equalities issues” says David. Although things have improved with 99% of First Bus vehicles and 100% of Bristol’s licensed blue taxis are now wheelchair accessible, there is still a way to go. David cites the recent court case about whether parents with pushchairs or wheelchair users take priority on buses. “I can’t take any journey I like. There are platforms across the area that are
not accessible, including Stapleton Road and Lawrence Hill which are important links to bus lines. Soon there will be changes to electrify and widen local rail lines and we need to make sure that disabled access is not overlooked. This is about freedom and independence and I will only be satisfied when I can travel anywhere I like.” David would encourage other people to have the confidence to speak out. “I think people just want you to vanish and not rock the boat but every bit of progress has been a hard fought battle. The Equalities Act didn’t just happen; it was hard fought for by people who are discriminated against, not just disabled people but also Black and Minority Ethnic communities and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.” When he is not campaigning on transport issues, David is active in the neighbourhood improvements in Old Market and enjoys spending time in Lawrence Hill. “I think this area is very inclusive and welcoming. Bristol’s attitude is one of inclusion and it hasn’t seen social unrest like in other cities. I’d like to see us closing Old Market to traffic for Pride weekend and reducing the number of cars there all the time. It’s a historic part of Bristol and shouldn’t be a highway.” He is also working with Bristol’s tourist board to ensure Old Market and our high streets are included in their guide to Bristol, so all in all, he’s a busy man!
Scouting about
officially welcomed into The Beaver Colony of the Local Scout leader Maureen Waller tells us about 128th Bristol Scout the group’s latest outing. Group.” The group meets “We recently took Beavers, Cubs and Scouts for a at St. Gabriel’s Scout special visit to Speedwell Fire Station. We were met Group Headquarters, by three firemen who took it in turns to give us Woodborough Street, information about fire safety. Then what made the Easton. Contact the group leader on 07446010627 visit special was that one of our new Beavers was to find out about joining. 16
Up Our Street
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Gearing up in Greenbank The 2011 census told us that Bristol has seen a 94% increase in cycling since 2001 - the highest figure outside of London. We caught up with local community activists Kai Paulden and Patrick Winch, founders of BS5 Bicycle Users Group (BUG), to find out how they are helping more people get to grips with cycling. “I did some research for LifeCyle UK which found out that one reason people don’t cycle is because they have nowhere to park their bikes at home” explains Kai. “Bikes have to be wheeled through the house or end up gathering dust in the shed. I am working with a neighbour who plans to start a cooperative where we collect recycled materials and build bike parking in Greenbank gardens for one another for free so we’d love people to join our community ‘posse’. I say ‘parking’ rather than ‘storage’ as bikes need to be easily accessible.” Kai arranged for local designer John Packer to devise a shelter for anyone to copy, which can now be seen in operation on Gratitude Road. Kai and Patrick took us on a cycle tour of Greenbank to show off the creative designs springing up in the area. “This was our inspiration for the project” says Patrick. “Some people have done great things but we want to teach others the skills.” The pair are also
planning a low cost bike loan scheme for local residents. “Cycling makes the area more pleasant with less congestion and pollution and helps build community as you use local shops and chat to people you see. It’s also healthier and cheaper” says Kai. “One great thing is you’re in control of your time” adds Patrick “no getting stuck in traffic jams.” Both Kai and Patrick recognise there are some tensions out there on the roads which may put people off cycling. “Whether you walk, cycle or drive there are people who aren’t nice to each other and our roads aren’t well designed for the different users. Rather than fight each other we should get together to lobby for change” says Kai. Residents of Greenbank who’d like to join the cooperative for a free shelter can contact bs5bicyleusergroup@gmail.com If you would just like the shelter built and installed for you, they are currently going for around £300. Below: Kai with the new shelter Left: Kai and Patrick
Resident campaign keeps local pub open
Campaigners outside the Greenbank pub www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
After three failed planning applications and a successful local campaign, The Greenbank Pub opened its doors in March for the first time since 2011. The building has been a pub for over 100 years and residents wanted it kept as a community space rather than flats. The pub is now open Sunday to Thursday, 9.30am-12am and Friday and Saturday, 9.30am-1am with food and a function room as well as a programme of family friendly community events, including World Cup themed evenings during June. The room is available for free for community groups. Contact 939 3771 or patrickgreenbank@gmail.com to book space or follow @GreenbankEaston on Twitter. Up Our Street
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City Academy punches above its weight
Academy Sports Centre in March. Our local venue is gaining a reputation for staging scintillating nights, with local hero Lee Haskins winning and defending the British bantamweight title there in 2013. Fans got their money’s worth with a packed evening of sport. Few occasions stir the senses like a fight night, and taxis began depositing fans from 5pm before the first bell thirty minutes later. Fathers with sons, nervous participants’ girlfriends grasped their mum’s arm while groups of smartly-dressed men waited with anticipation as to whether they might see a step taken toward the writing of history, with DeGale hoping to become Britain’s first Olympic and world champion. The closelymatched combatants made for a compelling spectacle – defeat for DeGale would have derailed his world championship designs. It was an exciting tussle which ended with victory for DeGale and Olympic champion boxer James DeGale when the fight ended, the City Academy celebrated. Greenbank resident and boxing fan Simon Fry gives DeGale was interviewed for Channel 5 before us a quick review of a world class event which took leaving the arena triumphantly, his status as a place in Lawrence Hill this spring. serious contender cemented, as is that of the City “It’s a long way from Beijing to Buckingham Palace, Academy as a centre for sporting excitement.” but they were two stop-offs on the journey taken Would you like to review an event, shop or by Olympic gold medallist boxer James DeGale restaurant for Up Our Street? Contact MBE, who took on Gevorg Khatchikian in another stacy@eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk winning bout at Russell Town Avenue’s City or 377 3638.
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Up Our Street
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Arts West Side available for use
space of this kind in the area - and Do you have an idea for a creative project but just we are very keen need space to run it? Trinity Arts Centre is offering to engage more volunteers from space at Arts West Side for community use. We spoke to Cleo Lake, Cafe Manager at Arts West Side the community to help us take to find out about a 12 week project she has been the project running there. further. We “I wanted to use the space to bring together women in a relaxed and social environment where would love to hear from they could try out creative projects” says Cleo. anyone who During our visit, there were six women enjoying a meal together before heading upstairs to complete wants to help out, whether they work on painting a mural. want to have a “I came along because I wanted to practice my English talking to other women. I’m also a Fine Art space to hold a student so I like doing the creative projects and the mother and Wellwoman group at toddler group or food is lovely” said Eva. Jenny is a full time mum Arts West Side in March they want to run who wanted to take a break from childcare duties art sessions, or to meet others. “I liked the idea of taster sessions are keen to volunteer for a few hours a week then on different creative projects as well” adds Jenny. please get in touch. It’s a great space for local And Wellwoman is just one of the things artists, to hold a meeting, event or workshop. happening from the building. Sarah Bentley, What’s even better is that we can offer the space at Coordinator for Arts West Side said: “We offer a really great price making it accessible for affordable office and creative space to the everyone. We welcome more people to come and community as well as hot desk space for community and arts organisations. We run free or take advantage of this community resource.” affordable activities for all ages and abilities. We Arts West Side is at 6 West Street, Old Market. are still a new project and are working hard to The cafe is open 11am to 4m from Tuesday to create a community space in Old Market - we Saturday. To hire space contact Sarah on launched this project as we identified the lack of a 935 1200 or bentleg@3ca.org.uk
New look Trinity Centre opens its doors
beautiful new 'Fyfe Hall' - named in honour of one of Trinity Community Arts' founders - the addition The Trinity Centre has been a focal point for cultural of a new reception area aims to make the venue and community activities in Old Market for many feel more welcoming and accessible. ”We still have years. The building, which is an iconic landmark in lots more work planned but we welcome anyone to Lawrence Hill, has recently undergone renovation come and have a look around” adds Rhiannon. to create a second large hall space with a new Visit ww.3ca.org.uk for more details or call heating system, a sprung wooden floor, lighting 935 1200. and drapes making it suitable for a range of Opening event at Trinity Centre activities including dance, performance, meetings and conferences. Rhiannon Jones, Programme Manager at Trinity Centre said: “We have just been granted a licence for civil marriages and civil partnerships. If you're looking for an affordable venue and an alternative take on your wedding ceremony, Trinity is ideal. We are also pleased to announce that the striking new graffiti mural is now finished and is certainly brightening up our impressive looking reception area. This phenomenal piece is all thanks to the incredibly talented Silent Hobo and Mr.Riks.” As well as the
www.eastonandlawrencehill.org.uk
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Eastern Yoga is a new yoga studio in the heart of Greenbank, Easton. We aim to be an integral part of the local community whilst welcoming people from all parts of Bristol and beyond.
Amna massage and acupuncture are also available in our treatment room. Our purpose is to "provide a space for the holistic within".
If you have not visited Eastern Yoga yet, then come visit us during the Easton Art trail, Busy modern life is draining and demanding and as we all www.easternyoga.co.uk or txt: 07939202245 for details know without good health and well being, it is difficult to of classes, workshops and treatments. enjoy the fruits of our labour. If you are interested in providing a local holistic service at Eastern Yoga less than is five minutes away from St Marks Eastern Yoga. Please contact us. Road, and is convenient for cyclists. Eastern Yoga, 46 Greenbank Road, BS5 6EH We offer classes in yoga, qi-gong and tai chi; all are suitable for beginners and/or more proficient students.   Yoga is not just for the super fit! We teach in a way that makes yoga accessible for everyone. When practiced on a regular basis, yoga can help eradicate many modern day ailments such as stress, stiffness, neck and back pain as well as bringing about a general feeling of wellbeing. All classes are kept small, so students can receive maximum attention; this makes our studio excellent value for money. We also provide regular mindfulness meditation, various other workshops, as well as meditation for mothers and babies.