IslingtonLife magazine winter 2015

Your local magazine from Islington Council

IslingtonLife Issue 61, Winter 2015

Free visitors’ parking vouchers, page 17

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tough budget choices for Islington Shop local at Christmas Book swaps open at adventure playgrounds

T U C % 50 …with more cuts to come T U C % 50 National government has cut its funding to Islington Council in half since 2010.

That’s half as much to spend on essential services like keeping our streets clean, caring for older people and running children’s centres.

50%

50%

We’re working hard to protect your services, but we face tough choices about what we can provide.

CUT

Find out more and tell us what you think at www.islington.gov.uk/toughchoices

CUT

Contents 4

Welcome

18

Shop local this Christmas Ideas for Christmas gifts and food

5

News Local landlord fined

20

Young at Heart Our older people’s champion

6

Budget News The impact of government cuts

21

Charity at Christmas Give back to the community

8

Working better together Residents get back to work

22

Young Islington Adventure playground book swaps

10

Keep warm and well Staying well over winter

25

What’s on Out and about in the borough

12

Money matters Advice on staying out of debt

26

Arsenal in the Community The latest community projects

14

Safer Islington Keep safe this Christmas

28

Noticeboard Free Assembly Hall hire and more

15

Local Life Including visitor parking vouchers

31

Christmas opening hours Need to know information

Inside your winter issue

The spring edition of IslingtonLife will be out in March.

To advertise contact islingtonlife@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 3416.

Creating a fairer Islington Throughout this issue of IslingtonLife you will notice some new symbols.

These highlight our priority areas as a council and some of the work we’re doing to make Islington a fairer place.

You can find out more about each of these priorities, which reflect what residents have told us matters most, in the Islington Council Corporate Plan at www.islington.gov.uk/corporateplan.

3

Welcome Welcome to the latest edition of Islington Life. As we come towards the end of the year, it’s time to look back over the last twelve months in our borough, and to look ahead to what 2016 has in store.

There have been tremendous achievements and successes over the past year – with good GCSE results across our schools, more people being helped to find jobs, and Arsenal winning the FA Cup for the second year in a row!

But it’s also been a challenging year.

Cllr Richard Watts Leader of the Council

You can download this issue and previous issues online, visit www.islington.gov.uk/islington Be the first to hear about the latest news. Follow us on Twitter @IslingtonLife and @IslingtonBC for council news You can also find us on Facebook.

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We are committed to making a difference for people in Islington. That’s why I am proud of the work the council has done in the past year, working alongside others, to take-on the big issues facing people in our communities.

Helping people into work Last November, the council launched the Islington Employment Commission report. The Commission brought together council services, local businesses, and other partners, as well as genuinely listening to local people who were out of work. In the last year, much work has been done to implement the massive change we need to ensure employment services work better for residents. I am pleased that we have helped more than 1,000 people into work through improved council services.

However, more children in Islington still live in homes where no one works than anywhere else in the country. We still have a great deal of work to do.

www.islington.gov.uk

Tackling the housing crisis Work to fight back against the housing crisis facing Islington and London also continues. You will read on the opposite page about action we have taken to fine a private sector landlord who was unlawfully letting a basement flat in the borough. As the amount of people living in private rented housing increases, we have to use all our powers to ensure that standards are met and residents are not exploited. I am proud that our affordable and social housing building programme – the biggest in a generation – continues at great pace.

Challenges ahead The year ahead will be challenging. The Government has already cut our funding in half, and more cuts will be coming. So far we’ve had to make difficult choices, but we’ve managed to maintain many services. The next few years are going to be hard, but the council is committed to transforming our borough for the better with the resources we have.

Finally, you will have received letters from the council about changes to how you register to vote. It’s really important that you complete all the forms you are sent and return them to council as soon as possible.

All that remains is to wish each and every person in Islington a peaceful and merry Christmas.

Recycle me!

Please recycle this magazine once you’ve finished with it.

Other formats If you would like IslingtonLife in large print, audiotape or another format, please call 020 7527 3416 4

The Duchess of Cambridge meeting Mayor of Islington, Cllr Richard Greening and Cllr Richard Watts in October

News £85k fine for landlord over substandard flat

www.islington.gov.uk

Could you foster?

Action from Islington Council has left a landlord with a bill of more than £85,000 for unlawfully letting a basement flat.

As part of a planning enforcement crackdown in the Caledonian Road area, the council asked a major local landlord to ensure all his properties were being used lawfully in planning terms.

When the landlord applied to confirm the use of a basement flat at 374 Caledonian Road, N1as lawful, it emerged that the flat was subject to an enforcement notice.

The enforcement notice said the flat was “an unsatisfactory and substandard unit of residential accommodation” with “inadequate light and outlook and poor living environment”.

The council initiated legal action against the owner, Andrew Costi Panayi, who pleaded guilty to breach of a planning enforcement notice relating to the flat.

At a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing on Friday 16 October at Blackfriars Crown Court, Mr Panayi was ordered to pay a fine of £2000; a costs award of £15,900, and was issued a confiscation order of £70,000 in relation to the profits made from renting the basement flat.

Tenants in Islington with concerns about their landlords, or landlords seeking guidance on how to meet legislation, can call 020 7527 3001.

Islington remembers the sacrifices made by service men and women

Islington honoured those who lost their lives in two world wars and more than 70 other conflicts with several Remembrance events in November. Hundreds attended a Remembrance Sunday parade starting at Highbury Corner and an inter-faith service held at the war memorial on Islington Green on Sunday, 8 November.

A two-minute silence took place at 11am, after which wreaths were laid by war veterans, members of Islington Council and representatives from local organisations.

Islington’s fostering service is in urgent need of foster carers and supportive lodgings carers to look after asylum seeking children.

More children and young people are expected to arrive from a range of countries and new families are needed in and around the north London area to offer a caring home for them. Islington already has over 60 unaccompanied asylum seeking children in care but there is a shortage of single people and couples to look after them.

These children arrive in the UK scared, alone and with an uncertain future.

They all need a caring home where they feel safe, secure and supported. As an Islington foster carer you would offer a stable environment to help them adapt and settle in a new country, allowing them to look forward to the future.

If you think you could offer a spare room and a chance of a brighter future to a young person, get in touch with the fostering team today. All foster carers working with Islington receive generous financial support of up to £450 per week, a dedicated social worker, 24 hour support, extensive training opportunities and regular peer support. Call today on 0800 073 0428 or email us at fostering@islington.gov.uk You can also check for more information online at www.islington.gov.uk/fostering or find us on social media www.facebook. com/islingtonfostering 5

Budget News Government cuts continue to hurt Islington is facing cuts from national government on a scale never seen before. The government has cut its funding to Islington Council in half since 2010, with more cuts to come.

That means we have half as much money to spend on essential services like keeping our streets clean, caring for older people and running children’s centres.

We remain committed to creating a fairer Islington in these tough times and are doing everything we can to support residents who most need our help.

Or, to put it another way, by 2017 we will have lost over £1,000 of funding for each and every household in the borough.

Just some of the ways we’re doing this include: Launching our new iWork service, which provides one-to-one coaching, mentoring and support to long-term unemployed residents to help them access training and work.

Our house-building programme, which will deliver 2,000 new affordable homes by 2019.

Our award-winning SHINE service, which supports residents facing fuel poverty.

We are working hard to protect your services, but we face tough choices about what we can provide.

Despite having already made huge savings, we expect to be hit with further deep cuts over the next few years. At the same time, demand for many local services continues to rise – for example, the government’s welfare reforms are causing more and more people to need help with housing issues, benefits cuts and problem debt.

How much do council services cost?

We provide more than 600 services – such as schools, community safety and support for disabled people – to 206,000 residents. The council has had to save £150 million since 2010. To put that in context, here are some examples of how much the services we provide cost each year: Running the borough’s ten libraries -

£3.4 million

Caring for the borough’s 476 elderly residents in care homes - £16.1 million

Providing care for Islington’s 270 foster children - £10.8 million

Collecting rubbish and recycling from every household - £6.8 million

Keeping Islington’s 117 parks open and well maintained - £5.6 million

So, where does the council get its money from?

Most of the money that the council has to spend comes from national government, which is why their cuts have such a huge impact. Here is a breakdown of the sources of each pound of the council’s income:

13p 20p

6

10p

Government grants

Retained business rates

Fees and charges

Council tax

57p

www.islington.gov.uk

We spoke to Cllr Andy Hull to find out what the council is doing to balance the books and protect essential services. residents find the right job, building more genuinely affordable housing, supporting families to cope with the rising cost of living, delivering services on a tight budget and helping residents enjoy a good quality of life. None of these things are easy and we will need to tackle some of the deeper social challenges – such as mental ill health, domestic violence, long-term health conditions, substance misuse and long-term unemployment – which limit residents’ life chances and those of their families. To do that, we need to work in new ways with our partners to make the most of our resources and provide more joined-up services. We remain determined to tackle poverty and reduce inequality to make Islington a fairer place to live and work.

Q. How can residents help the council to save money?

Q. Islington has been one of the boroughs hardest

hit by the government’s cuts. How has the council managed to make savings so far?

Since 2010, we’ve had to make savings of £150 million. In doing so, we have tried to minimise the impact on front-line services. We have done this mainly by becoming as efficient as possible. We’ve started selling services to bring extra money in and we’ve made better use of our buildings. We’ve shared services like accountancy, public health, internal audit and now IT with neighbouring boroughs. And we’ve moved everyday transactions online, where they are cheaper for the council and easier for residents at the same time.

Q. Will future cuts mean that you will have to stop

providing some services?

Imagine how you would cope if you were told your household budget was going to be cut in half. Like us, you would probably face some very tough decisions about what to prioritise. The government’s last-minute decision-making also means it’s difficult to plan ahead. We want to protect as many services as possible, but, inevitably, not everything can stay the same.

No final budget decisions have been made yet and we will be keeping residents informed throughout the process.

Q. When will any decisions be taken?

We’ll be announcing budget proposals for 2016/17 on 6 January. They will then go to the full council meeting in February for final approval.

Q. You talk about creating a fairer Islington, but how

can you continue to do that in the face of such big cuts?

More than ever before, we need to make sure that any decisions we make are based on our priorities – helping

Our website provides a quick, easy way for residents to do things online, such as reporting faults or paying bills. It is also much cheaper for the council to process requests online than face-to-face. An online transaction costs roughly 32p compared to £7.40 in person. Most of our residents actually prefer it that way too. However, we know that some people will need support to access digital channels. There is work already underway to improve children’s IT skills in schools and we’re helping adults with free IT courses. We’re also extending free Wi-Fi to more areas of the borough and providing internet access at more locations like the Islington Contact Centre and in libraries.

Another way residents can help is by recycling more. We introduced compulsory recycling because it costs £80 per tonne to send rubbish to landfill but only £15 per tonne to recycle it. It’s also much better for the environment. The council can save many thousands of pounds each year if residents recycle as much as possible.

Q. How can residents have their say about the

council’s budget and keep up to date with plans?

There is information about the council’s budget online at www.islington.gov.uk/toughchoices. You can email any questions, comments or suggestions you may have about the council’s budget to toughchoices@islington.gov.uk. Some of you may just have attended the Leader’s Question Time event at Central Library. Cllr Watts will be holding further events like this next year where you can come along and put your questions to him in person. You can also ask questions at full Council meetings, or go along to your local councillors’ surgeries.

For more details on these, visit www.islington.gov.uk/democracy

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Working better together

Award for outstanding council apprentice The hard work of Islington Council apprentice Arizona Jones has been recognised with a special award for the “Outstanding Contribution” he’s made to the London Professional Apprenticeship (LPA) programme.

Since joining the council’s HR department in 2014 as a recruitment apprentice, 21 year-old Arizona has progressed to the permanent role of HR Recruitment Officer.. He now manages recruitment campaigns and provides guidance to managers on recruitment issues.

Arizona has campaigned to get more employers to take on apprentices, promoting the LPA scheme to other organisations at numerous events, and talking to (often sceptical) managers about the benefits of employing an apprentice.

Speaking about his award, Arizona said: “To not only receive an award but to also receive recognition for my efforts was a priceless moment.

“Becoming an apprentice at Islington was undoubtedly the most beneficial career move I have ever made. The training and experiences I have taken from my time at Islington have been invaluable to developing both my career and me as a person.”

Arizona accepted the award at a graduation ceremony for LPA apprentices hosted at London’s Science Museum, by the global accountancy firm, Price Waterhouse Coopers.

Arizona picks up his LPA award

Islington is first council to become a Living Wage Friendly Funder Last month, Islington became the first council in the country to be officially recognised for ensuring that the charities and voluntary organisations it funds all pay the Living Wage to their employees.

Each year, Islington provides some 43 charities and voluntary organisations with £3.2 million in ‘core grants’ on the condition that they pay all their employees the Living Wage or more.

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The council was awarded ‘Friendly Funder’ status by the Living Wage Foundation and Citizens UK. In 2012, Islington was the joint-first council to become an accredited Living Wage employer. All directly employed council staff and 98 per cent of its contracted staff are now paid at least the London Living Wage, including 519 homecare workers.

www.islington.gov.uk

Be better off in work

Finding a job can be difficult, especially if you have been out of work for a while. With the right support, getting the skills and confidence you need to find a job can be easier than you think.

Shama Saud (right) with iWork coach Zainab Rauf

How iWork can help

Islington’s iWork team give one to one job coaching, mentoring and support to people for as long as it takes for them to get into work.

Shama Saud had been out of work for around 18 months due to ill health when she turned to iWork. “I’m a single mum and I love being a parent, but I also wanted to get back to work again. iWork had already helped me before, so they were the first place I went.”

In the six months between April and September this year, the iWork coaches have helped 283 Islington residents to get a job. That’s more than 12 jobs every week.

Did you know?

iWork employment coaches help people to prepare for work at their own pace, by getting access to training, volunteering or work placements.

Shama knows why iWork was right for her. “For me, it’s all about the staff. They are all shining stars! My employment coach was

always there to talk to. I never felt like I was on my own and the support she gave me felt really personalised. We talked about the kind of work I was interested in and the skills I had. She helped me with my CV and covering letters and really gave me what I needed to succeed.”

Finding the right job for you

iWork can put people in touch with employers directly, and help them to market their skills. Businesses don’t always advertise their jobs, so iWork coaches support their clients to contact employers proactively and access those ‘hidden’ job roles.

Shama recently secured a job in a supermarket after iWork arranged an interview for her. “Before my interview, they set up a practice run with me. It made me feel so much more confident. I felt like I knew what to expect before I got there.

Even after I started in the job, my employment coach called me to see how I was getting on. I thought that was amazing! I’m really enjoying my job now. I feel more confident and it gives me a real sense of achievement.”

Get in touch To book an appointment with an iWork employment coach, email iwork@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 2706 9

Keep warm and well The cold and damp weather can aggravate existing health problems and make us more vulnerable to illnesses that are more common in winter. This is particularly the case for those aged 65 or over or with a long-term health condition. Here are some things you can do to help stay well this winter.

Feeling unwell? Don’t wait – get advice from a pharmacist

Keep Warm Heat your home to at least 18 degrees (65F) Keep your bedroom window closed on winter nights Keep active when you’re indoors – try not to sit still for too long Wear several layers of light clothes – these will trap warmth, making them more effective than fewer, thicker layers Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat from escaping and check windows for draughts Drink plenty of hot drinks

Had a few too many recently?

Call 111. If you need medical help fast, but it’s not life threatening or you’re not sure where to go, a 111 adviser will assess you and direct you to the best placed service in your area.

Ask a pharmacist. They’re highly trained healthcare experts, on everything from colds to long-term health conditions.

Visit a walk-in centre. They’re mainly run by nurses who can treat minor illnesses and injuries on the spot. You don’t need an appointment and they’re open outside office hours.

Contact your GP. Many GPs can offer advice over the phone and can arrange referral to a hospital specialist if you need it.

A&E departments. They’re there for life-threatening emergencies. But if you’re not sure whether it’s an emergency, call 111 first.

For more information and advice visit www.nhs.uk/staywell

take the t s e t l o h o c l a , personalised

Get free g at in k n ri d r u o y t u o b advice a .uk dontbottleitup.org minutes!

- it only takes two

k u . g r o . p u t i e l t t o dontb 10

www.islington.gov.uk

Reduce condensation in your home The colder weather can contribute to condensation, which in turn can lead to damp and mould in your home. Not only is this unpleasant, it can be bad for your health, particularly if you have respiratory problems.

When damp air touches a cold surface, like a wall, it turns to water – and everyday tasks like cooking and washing create surprising amounts of moisture.

Taking a bath

3 hours of cooking

Drying clothes

2 pints

3 pints

10 pints

To reduce the likelihood of having problems, try to control how much moisture you produce and make sure your home is ventilated.

Reduce moisture: open windows in the bathroom and kitchen after cooking and bathing. Shut the doors at the same time to stop cold air getting into the rest of your home. Try to dry your washing outside where possible.

Let damp air escape: make full use of any extractor fans and vents you have fitted and check they are working well.

Stay warm: keep your home warm to reduce condensation.

For more information call the Energy Advice Team on 0800 953 1221 or 020 7527 2121

If like most people, you will reach the New Year feeling like you have overindulged with alcohol over the festive period, why not make a plan to cut down on your drinking at www.dontbottleitup.org.uk? This doesn’t need to be complicated. Small steps like switching to lower strength drinks or avoiding rounds can make all the difference.

Islington’s CASA Alcohol Service offers a range of help and support for Islington residents who are concerned about their own or somebody else’s drinking. Call 020 7833 9899 or email casa332@blenheimcdp.org.uk to find out more about their drop-in sessions.

Make sure you have a flu jab We spoke Dr Daniel Gordon, who works in general practice in Islington, to find out more about how the flu jab works.

Why is the vaccine important?

Flu is an unpleasant illness. In most healthy people it clears up on its own, but it can be particularly dangerous if you are vulnerable, for example if you are elderly, pregnant, a young child, or if you suffer from a long term medical condition such as asthma or diabetes. By protecting you from flu, the vaccine reduces the chance that you will suffer a serious complication which may mean hospitalization.

I had the vaccine last year. Do I need it again?

Because the types of flu virus circulating change frequently, it is recommended that you get the vaccine every year. This ensures that you are protected from the latest strains.

Does the vaccine work?

The vaccine works well, offering you a degree of protection against flu. It is important to remember that if you are vulnerable to getting ill, any degree of protection is valuable.

Is the vaccine safe?

The flu vaccine has an excellent safety record. The most common side effects after having the vaccine are a mild fever, aching muscles and soreness in the arm you had the injection. Contrary to the common myth, the adult flu vaccine can’t actually give you the flu as it doesn’t contain the live virus.

How can I get my vaccine?

Don’t put off getting your vaccination. To see if you are eligible, visit your GP or local participating pharmacy.

You can find local pharmacies that are offering free flu jabs at www.islington.gov.uk/flu2015

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Money matters Many people worry that they will struggle to pay their bills in winter. There are some steps you can take to help, such as taking advantage of financial schemes to help you pay for your heating.

Switch your Get advice from energy provider SHINE Don’t get Switch energy companies!

Being a savvy energy shopper and switching supplier could save you around £200.

Even switching to a better tariff with your same supplier can save you cash.

Visit www.islington.gov.uk/energy or call 020 7527 2121 or 0800 953 1221 for help with switching, and advice on a whole range of energy saving topics.

Vulnerable residents can get support from the Seasonal Health Interventions Network (SHINE), run by the council. The pioneering programme has helped 10,000 Islington residents survive cold weather and saved vulnerable residents around £3 million on gas and electricity bills.

As well as heating and insulation improvements, residents can apply for energy bill discounts and help dealing with debt to energy and water companies. A befriending service, falls prevention assessments, fire safety checks and much more are also available through SHINE. Craig, a vulnerable 62 year old man, was referred to SHINE by social services. He had been discharged from hospital after pneumonia treatment to find that he had no heating or hot water after building up debt on his meter whilst in hospital. As a result, he was living in one room of his house with a small electric heater.

The SHINE team helped to negotiate a fair repayment plan for the debt, added him to his energy company’s vulnerable customer register, and secured him a £140 Warm Home Discount on his annual bill. Craig’s home is now warm and he’s happy that he can have a hot bath!

Residents who would like to refer themselves to SHINE, should call 020 7527 2121.

Apply for a Warm Home Discount If you’re on certain benefits, you could be eligible for a Warm Home Discount, which will give you £140 off your electricity bills this winter.

To qualify, you must meet the criteria set by the company who supplies your electricity. You are likely to qualify if you: Are receiving benefits because of a disability You are receiving benefits and have a child under five To check if you qualify for the discount, call the Energy Advice Team on 020 7527 2121 or 0800 953 1221 or visit www.islington.gov.uk/warmhomediscount.

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www.islington.gov.uk

Don’t get caught by a loan shark or a payday lender this Christmas Alongside higher fuel bills in winter, the mounting costs of presents and celebrations over Christmas means some people may be tempted to use a loan shark or pay day lender, but this is only likely to make things much worse.

Loan sharks are criminals

A loan shark is someone who lends money illegally and without the appropriate licence. They rarely, if ever, provide any paperwork and if payments are missed they often use intimidation and violence to get their money back.

Need a short term loan?

Don’t get bitten by pay day lenders and illegal loan sharks.

If you have been bitten by a loan shark, report them anonymously to the illegal money lending team on 0300 555 2222.

Payday lenders are legal but expensive The lenders you see on the high street and internet are legal but can be expensvive - even though the rules about how much they can charge you are getting tighter.

So why not try the more affordable options instead?

The Islington Credit Union offers loans at much cheaper rates and will do much more to help you manage your money.

Contact them at www.credit-union.coop or call 020 7561 1786.

For free, confidential debt advice call the Islington Advice Line on 03444 889 626 or see www.islington.gov.uk/ moneyadvice

Household repairs - a helping hand The council’s handyperson scheme offers help carrying out basic repairs around the home for vulnerable or disabled residents and registered carers of adults.

Only a small fee is charged for services, which include: home maintenance security fixing appliances

carpentry plumbing gas and electrics

You don’t need to be a council tenant, or receiving benefits to be eligible to make use of the service.

To find out more and see if one of our team can help you, please contact 0800 694 3344 (free from a landline), or 020 7527 5400. Alternatively, you can email repairs.handyperson@islington.gov.uk.

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Safer Islington Islington’s Fire Commander Patrick Goulbourne says...

Seasonal candle fires are a burning issue, writes London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for Islington, Patrick Goulbourne.

At this time of year, many people will be lighting candles as part of their Christmas decorations. They are as much a part of the festive season as holly and tinsel but if you don’t use them safely it could spell disaster for you and your family.

www.islington.gov.uk

Hear from Islington’s Police Borough Commander Catherine Roper

At this time of year, when social calendars are busy and people are often out in the evenings, burglars will take advantage of the darker nights to target homes which look empty. So now is a good time to look again at your home security.

Our figures show that across London, blazes started by candles usually increase between November and January.

Candles are one of the biggest causes of fires in the home and during 2014/2015 four people died and 56 people were injured in fires started by candles in London.

If you are thinking of using candles or tea-lights as part of your Christmas decorations, you can make sure you don’t put yourself or your family at risk by following some simple fire safety tips: •

Always make sure candles are placed in a proper holder on an even, heat resistant surface and that they are kept well away from anything that could catch fire like clothing, Christmas trees or curtains.

• Mixing candles and too much alcohol can be catastrophic so don’t use them if you’ve had a lot to drink.

• Never leave candles unattended.

• Always leave at least 10cm between burning candles or tea lights and never place them under shelves or other enclosed spaces.

• Always put candles out and leave to cool down before you try to move them or leave the room.

• Use a candle ‘snuffer’ or a metal spoon to put the candle out – it’s safer than blowing them out which can send sparks and hot wax flying.

If the worst happens and there is a fire in your home, never try and tackle it yourself. Always get out, stay out and call 999.

You should also have a smoke alarm fitted to every level of your home and test it regularly.

14

Ask yourself some simple questions: • Are the locks on my rear door as good as my front door?

• Do I have security lights at the front and rear of my property?

• Have I got timer switches on lights?

• Do I have security locks on my windows?

• Do I leave my radio or television on when I am out to make it look as if someone is at home?

Your local Neighbourhood Policing team can offer crime prevention advice, and we are currently providing homes across Islington with the MPS traceable liquid ‘Met Trace’, which has been shown to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of burglary. Contact content.met.police.uk/ Borough/Islington for details of how to contact your Neighbourhood Policing Team.

All my staff and officers are working together for the common goal to further reduce crime across Islington and keep you safe.

By spending a few minutes looking at your own home security, you can help us to make Islington the safest borough in London.

Local life

www.islington.gov.uk

Kate returns to Islington Glowing report for Packington Children’s Centre Ofsted has given Packington Children’s Centre its seal of approval for the second time running with a glowing report and an “outstanding” rating.

Duchess of Cambridge talks to mentors and children from Chance UK

Crowds gathered outside Islington Town Hall in October, as the Duchess of Cambridge was once again welcomed to the borough.

Following her visit to Islington’s fostering service in January, the Duchess showed her continued interest in children and young people, this time meeting children and mentors from charity Chance UK. Through intensive individual mentoring and family support, Chance UK helps children aged between five and 11 who are at risk of slipping into a pattern of anti-social or criminal behaviour. The organisation - which was set up by a policeman working in Islington in 1995 - now helps more than 200 children across six of London’s borough’s every year.

Staff at the centre based at New North Community School, N1, were praised for giving “the highest priority to keeping children safe”, and inspectors noted they were “fully committed to driving improvement”.

Over the summer, Packington Children’s Centre extended and developed its childcare provision with a new nursery site at Bentham Court, off Ecclesbourne Road.

The Duchess was greeted at the Town Hall by Mayor of Islington, Cllr Richard Greening and leader of the council, Cllr Richard Watts. After meeting a selection of children enrolled on the Chance UK scheme, along with their parents and mentors, the Duchess attended a reception celebrating the work of the charity. For more information about Chance UK, visit: http://www.chanceuk.com

It provides high-quality care and education for children from birth to five years old, and enables Packington Children’s Centre to deliver a further 36 full-time places to meet the growing demand for quality provision in the community.

15

Local life Nominate your local heroes for the 2016 Mayor’s Civic Awards It’s time to start nominating those members of the community you know who go the extra mile and work hard to make things better in their local area.

The Mayor’s Civic Awards are presented each year to individuals, families or groups who have made an outstanding contribution to life in Islington and deserve recognition for their efforts.

This year’s winners included fundraisers, a group who improve services for disabled people in Islington and the founder of a community gardening group.

A special youth award - The Ben Kinsella Award - is also presented each year, to celebrate a young person whose positive actions have made their mark on the local community.

2015’s winner was Keeley Timms. who played an important role in helping younger students at her school in the often daunting transition from primary to secondary school.

If you know a person or group who you think deserves to have their praises sung, nominate them by Friday 22 January.

2015’s Mayor’s Civic Award winners with the then Mayor of Islington, Cllr Debono

For more information on this year’s winners and how to nominate for the 2016 awards, visit www.islington.gov.uk/civicaward

People’s Plaques – you voted, we honoured them In October, animal welfare campaigner and Founder of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Mary Tealby, was honoured with an Islington People’s Plaque, on the site of Freightliners Farm, N7.

The scheme recognises major figures, events and places that have helped to shape the borough.

In 2015, plaques were also unveiled for the North London Synagogue in Lofting Road,N1 and author and campaigner for railway safety, Nina Bawden in Noel Road, N1.

2415 votes were received for Mary Tealby - the largest amount recorded for any nominee since the scheme began in 2011.

Nominations for the next round of recipients for an Islington People’s Plaque will open in April 2016.

For more information and to find out about previous recipients, including suffragette Edith Garrud and The Peasants’ Revolt, visit http://www.islington.gov.uk/ peoplesplaque 16

Members of Mary Tealby’s family join staff from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and Freightliners Farm at the plaque unveiling

www.islington.gov.uk

Your free parking vouchers If you have friends or family staying over Christmas, please give them one of the relevant parking vouchers below so they can park outside your property for free. On bank holidays, when there is not a match or event at Emirates Stadium, motorists can park in any resident parking bay, short stay parking bay (pay and display), or single yellow line in Islington for free.

Apology and investigation over parking data breach

In October, Islington Council issued an apology after finding its parking appeals website was insecure.

Restrictions will be as normal except on 25 December, when only parking obstructions and dangerously parked vehicles will be enforced.

The council immediately took the relevant part of the website offline and launched a full investigation into how it occurred.

It also reported the breach in data security to the Information Commissioner’s Office. The council was alerted to the breach by a resident, who discovered that it was possible for the public to access personal information about appeals against Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) via the website.

On 28 December, restrictions apply in the match day zone for the Arsenal home game.

The investigation will include asking whether the data was accessed while the site was insecure, and, if so, by whom.

You cannot park on double yellow lines or in dedicated disabled bays at any time.

2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 Free all day parking Free all day parking voucher valid on: voucher valid on:

Free all day parking voucher valid on:

Tuesday 29 December 2015

Thursday 31 December 2015

Wednesday 30 December 2015

Valid all zones Valid all zones Valid all zones

Valid all day in resident permit holder on-street parking places only

Valid all day in resident permit holder on-street parking places only

Valid all day in resident permit holder on-street parking places only

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Shop local this Christmas Whether you’re looking for something quirky to give that hard-to-please relative, a fun stocking filler, or some high quality festive food, there’s no shortage of shops to choose from in Islington.

With big brands and independent retailers, food and drink outlets, pampering experiences and bustling markets, our town centres offer everything you need for a fantastic Christmas. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s a selection of recommendations from people who live and work in the borough.

Tube is a really “Camden Lock bookshop in Old Street a main present buy good little bookshop. You wouldn’t the Gruffalo buy for your wife in there but you might for your nephew.”

“You can get everything you nee d at Chapel Market for Christmas – all your fruit and veg and meat, Christmas trees, decorations and presents.

There’s a real community spirit here in the run up to Christm as and it looks good when the lights go up. I’ve been on this stall since I was 14, when the supermarkets only sold tinned and packaged goods. Now we’re compet ing against them but what we have here is cheaper and fres her than you’ll find at the supermarket.”

Chris

David Twydell, market stall ho lder and chairman of the stallholde rs association at Chapel Market.

“I use the local shops in Holloway every day, and go into James Selby for presents or go to the N1 Centre at the Angel. It’s nice to head there and have lunch and a day out with the family.”

Ramona

“We get all our meat for Christm as from Martin’s butchers stall on Chapel Market. He’s a pro per old school butcher and you can ask him for any cut of fresh meat and he’ll do it for you. Chapel Market is good for Christmas decorations and fruit and veg too. For presen ts, I normally head to the Angel or James Selby in Holloway.”

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Paul

“Godfreys in Highbury Barn is great for mea t and we use Samsun Balickcisi fishmong er near Newington Green. After Noah on Upper Street is perfect for children’s presents.”

Philippa, Louw and baby Johan

up in the area, and a “With lots of new retailers popping re has never been the wealth of small independent shops, wide variety of a h a better time to visit Archway. Wit for presents ion irat retailers you won’t be short of insp gift at a local own r you and cards. You could even make tment at one trea ing per craft workshop or choose a pam food shops, of t hos le of the many salons. There’s a who Archway’s n ntio me to delicatessens and eateries, not pick up also can much loved market where you ry. elle jew to everything from books y card to most of your visit, pick up an Archwa the To make n. com ndo aylo rchw w.a access monthly special offers. ww Twitter our on eye an p has plenty more information, or kee n.” ndo feed @archwaylo

Development Sarah Hitchcock, Town Centre ay hw Officer for Arc

www.islington.gov.uk “There’s a huge range of shops along Holloway Road and Seven Sisters Road and down some of the side stree ts in what is one of the major shopping centres of Lond on.

The range stretches from all the small specialist and independent shops to the vibrant Nag’s Head Cove red Market, the major supermarkets, the indoor shopping centre and the great offer of Selbys, one of the few department stores remaining outside the West End.”

Michael Calderbank, Town Centre Development Officer for Nag’s Head

tle shops some really nice lit e ar e er Th . on gt mden “We work in Islin ing presents and Ca tt ge r fo t ke ar M ts and along Exmouth I also get lots of bi n. tio ira sp in r fo Passage is good a bonsai tree Market. I bought bobs from Chapel y!” there the other da

d Emily Esther, Molly an

“Whether it’s something for loved ones, the work party or a bit of self-pampering, Finsbury Park has it covered for Christmas.

Start at Fonthill Road to bag a bargain for the Christmas bash, then stroll over to Blackstock Road for its mix of bookshops and homeware, before a pick me up and spot of lunch in one of the coffee shops or cafes.

Work off lunch with a stroll round the park itself, taking in the boating lake. Swing back towards the station via one of the spas and onto Stroud Green Road, to rest your feet and get a little pampering from one of the beauty and health offers. Need to purchase a special gift? Then carry along Stroud Green Road, for some special gifts.”

“I work on Essex Road so Camden Passage is great for popping out in your lunch bre ak and picking up presents. I go to Paul Young for nice chocolate s.”

Ivan

“To Be Established in Highbury Barn is good for small gifts and a great card selection.”

Stephen

Barry Causton, Town Centre Development Officer for Finsbury Park

“There’s all the fun of the festive fair at the Angel this Christmas. You’ll find gifts for everyone (including yours elf) in the quirky independent shops and boutiques of Camd en Passage and Upper Street, and all your favourite high street retailers in Angel Central shopping centre. There’s fresh fruit and vegetables for delicious Christmas dinners in one of London’s oldest street markets, Chapel Market. “angel.london are running a top quality Christmas Mark et stuffed full of independent designers and hot food stalls on Islington Green from December 4-20, with Santa’s Grotto!”

Christine Lovett, Chief Executive of angel. london business improvement district

is great hers on Essex Road ad to “James Elliott butc . I he r Christmas dinner for buying meat fo for the ys to r fo et per Stre on After Noah on Up e design shop 2021 children and I like th presents too.”

Upper Street for

Rachel

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Young at Heart Look out for the elderly this Christmas www.islington.gov.uk

Maisie Heather, Islington’s Older People’s Champion asks us all to keep an eye out for older people over Christmas.

“I read recently that one million older people live alone, and around 500,000 spend Christmas Day by themselves.

When you’re preparing for Christmas this year with your friends and family, share a thought for your elderly neighbour who may be facing a very lonely festive season. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Make a difference

Everyone can make a difference – simply checking on an older neighbour regularly, popping a card through their door, or having a chat with an older person in the street or at the shops only takes a moment, but can mean a lot.

Even better, you could tell them about things that are happening around the borough over the holidays and on Christmas Day which would mean they don’t have to spend it alone.

Christmas activities

Around Islington and across North London there are a number of local groups, churches etc. which host Christmas lunch and other activities on the day.

One of these is St Luke’s Community Centre in Central Street, EC1. All year round they run a huge number of activities and classes for their over 55s members club. You can pop along for free tea and coffee, tea dances, bingo and much more and on Christmas day they will be providing lunch.

There’s lots of information on their website www.slpt.org.uk.

Or you can email info@slpt.org.uk, telephone 020 7549 8181 or just pop into the community centre.

AgeUK Islington can also tell you about what’s happening locally. There’s a Christmas dance night on Saturday 19 December organised by North London Cares which sounds like a lot of fun!

Call 0207 281 6018 or visit their Get Together website for more information www.gtislington.com

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Maisie is Islington’s Older People’s Champion

Get involved

You might want to consider volunteering yourself to help out on Christmas day, or at other times. Many of the local groups which work with older people are on the look-out for volunteers – so if you have a few hours to spare, do get in touch with AgeUK or St Luke’s directly. There’s also more information about other volunteering opportunities over Christmas on the opposite page.

Whether you are lucky enough to spend Christmas with loved ones, or will be making use of some of the excellent local community groups, I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.”

Charity at Christmas

www.islington.gov.uk

Christmas is the season for giving, so what better time to volunteer your time and skills to help those less fortunate than you? There are hundreds of ways you can get involved, from serving meals to the homeless, or offering companionship to an older person. We’ve spoken to just a few organisations about what they offer locally and how volunteers can get involved.

Crisis at Christmas

Thousands of dedicated volunteers are needed to help bring Crisis’ temporary centres for homeless people to life this Christmas.

In London alone, 7,581 people slept rough at some point during 2014/15. Some of those will be catered for at the North London Day Centre near Kings Cross between 23- 30 December. As well as warmth, companionship and hot meals, guests will also receive healthcare and specialist advice on housing, work and benefits.

Registration is open at crisis.org.uk/volunteer, with a huge variety of roles on offer for anyone who wants to volunteer, including chatting to guests, serving food and sorting bedding and providing medical services, transport or entertainment.

A pick up bus making a couple of stops in Islington will be provided for those volunteering on days when public transport doesn’t run. More information is provided after registering as a volunteer.

North London Cares

Meal for ALL In August, Finsbury Park Mosque launched its Meal for ALL scheme.

Aimed at homeless and vulnerable people, the mosque opens its doors each Thursday evening, offering a friendly welcome and a decent, hot and free meal to those who need it.

Advice and support is available from social workers and homelessness and drugs charities, along with a selection of games to play.

Running between 6 and 8pm, the scheme is run by volunteers from wide ranging faiths and backgrounds.

Mohammed Kozbar, The Chairman of the Mosque said: “We are not just a mosque, but a community centre. We want to help people regardless of their background and have had very positive feedback from the local community. The scheme is open to everybody, Muslims and non-Muslims. For a couple of hours, they can have fun and forget about whatever problems they may have.”

The North London Cares annual Winter Wellbeing project aims to help older neighbours stay warm, active, connected and healthy during the most isolating time of the year.

Meal for ALL will operate over the Christmas period, remaining open on Thursday 24 and Thursday 31December.

From December to March, young volunteers will be on hand to distribute free blankets, jumpers and socks to those most in need, to direct people to the right council services to help keep their homes warm and to offer a range of one-to-one activities and social clubs for over-65s. This includes dance parties, cooking clubs and new tech workshops. For more information please call 07884 581 671 or visit northlondoncares.org.uk

The scheme is run with the support of a number of other organisations, including the Finsbury Park Homeless Families Project, homeless charity The Passage and St John the Evangelist Church in Brownswood Park.

Volunteer Action Islington offers advice and support both for those who are keen to offer their time and also to organisations looking to recruit volunteers. Visit their website to search online for the latest opportunities www.vai.org.uk.

Anyone interested in volunteering for Meal for ALL should contact Info@ finsburyparkmosque.org

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Young Islington New book swaps offer a reading adventure

Children at four more Islington adventure playgrounds can now enjoy the thrill of reading as well as the buzz of great outdoor play thanks to new free book swaps.

Barnard Park, King Henry’s Walk, Three Corners and Waterside adventure playgrounds now all have book swaps, where children can exchange books they have read and also borrow books, as you would at a library.

It brings the total number of adventure playground book swaps in Islington to six, with existing schemes at Cape and Cornwallis sites.

Hundreds of young people aged 6-13 have taken part in the existing book swaps, which also offer library visits and take

part in the Summer Reading Challenge.

Shyreece, 10, who uses the Barnard Park Adventure Playground book swap, said: “It’s really good, I like it! It helps me with my school work and helps others too, it’s really brilliant.” The book swaps operate during adventure playgrounds’ normal opening times.

For more information contact play and youth services 0207 527 5641.

Young people vote for their new youth councillors Islington’s young people have elected a new youth council! Following the elections on 25 November, 12 new youth councillors are now ready to begin their two-year term next spring, when they will represent the voice of young people in the borough.

To find out more, and to meet the new youth councillors, go to izzy-info.com/youthcouncil 22

www.islington.gov.uk

Apply online now for a primary school place!

If your child was born between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012, you need to apply now for a primary school place. Make your application online by 15 January.

If you need any help with the online application process, you can call the School Admissions Team on 020 7527 5515.

Free internet access is available at local libraries and at the Customer Centre at 222 Upper Street.

You can find out more and view the brochure online at www.islington.gov.uk/admissions

The online destination for Islington’s teens Izzy-info is the go-to online destination for young people in Islington who are looking for advice, information and things to do.

The site is packed full of information about jobs, careers, health, relationships and more, making it essential reading for all 13-19 year olds Details of the latest jobs and apprenticeships are regularly posted on the site, as well as help and advice about careers and education. There is a section dedicated to what’s on in the borough, and you can also get advice on relationships, mental health and much, much more.

Check out the site at www.izzy-info.com.

Can you offer a caring home?

Asylum seeking children come into fostering scared and with an uncertain future. They need a caring home, support and stability. Can you help?

• Generous allowances, up to £450 p/w • 24 hour support • Ongoing training Call now for more information /islington.fostering @isfostering

0800 073 0428

fostering@islington.gov.uk

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MER RY C H R IS T M A S FRO M AN G E L C E NT R AL SHOPPING

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•

DINING

•

ENTERTAINMENT

ANGELCENTRAL.CO.UK

What’s on

www.islington.gov.uk

Concerts and events at Islington Assembly Hall Whether you’re planning a night out in the run-up to Christmas, searching for gig tickets for a last-minute stocking filler or wanting to banish the January blues in the New Year, check out the variety of music and other shows at Islington Assembly Hall.

Keep up to date on Twitter @Islington_AH, and for the up-to-date full listing of events, visit www.islingtonassemblyhall.co.uk.

Christmas on Islington Green

Dave Davies in concert Celebrating his contribution to The Kinks’ legacy and his revolutionary guitar sounds that changed rock n roll!

When: 18 December, 7pm The Lone Bellow in concert With loads of promise for a massive future, the young band made it in to The Telegraph’s top 20 country albums of 2015!

When: 29 January, 7pm

Dave Davies

When: 30 January, 7pm

Looking for some Christmas gifts that are a little bit different? Head to the Christmas market on Islington Green, N1 from 4 – 20 December. There will be over 60 exhibitors from all over the UK, including fresh food stalls, and a Santa’s grotto.

Lindi Ortega in concert The Canadian-born alt-country singer fuses Nashville purity with big city sophistication.

Admission is free and the market is open 10am-6pm Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 10am-7pm on Friday and 12-5pm on Sunday.

Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock Award-winning heavy metal guitarist of UFO and The Michael Schenker Group fame takes to the road, calling in on N1.

When: 4 February, 7pm

Lindi Ortega

Tickets are available from ticket agencies, which may add on booking and other fees. The venue does not currently have a box office and does not set ticket prices or fees. For more information about the venue, call 020 7527 8900 or email assemblyhall@islington.gov.uk

Wedding open day Just got engaged? Time to start wedding planning!

For more information visit www. islingtonchristmasmarket.com www.facebook.com/ events/887280767993192/

Did you know that the festive period is the most popular time of year for people to pop the question? If you’re one of the happy couples to get engaged this Christmas and New Year, come along to Islington Assembly Hall’s wedding open day in January to see one of the borough’s most stylish venues!

With art deco features and flexibility for you to create a unique day, the grade II listed venue is the ideal location for your stylish London wedding. The team will be on hand to show you around, chat to you about wedding packages and local suppliers, and to offer you a celebratory glass of fizz!

You’ll also have the opportunity to take a tour of Islington Town Hall’s ceremony rooms, and speak to Islington Registrars about ceremonies. Plus, there’s the chance to win a free ceremony! To find out more, visit www.islingtonassemblyhall.co.uk.

25

Arsenal in the Community reaches thousands of people each week through a variety of schemes and initiatives which inspire and support its local community.

Adult Learning Zone re-opens at Arsenal

The Arsenal Red Zone Learning Centre has re-opened in its new home in the Arsenal Hub – Home of Arsenal in the Community, by Emirates Stadium.

The centre, which was originally housed in Highbury and then above the Arsenal Museum, provides a range of free courses for adults wanting to gain new skills, build confidence and find work.

Run in partnership with Islington Council, courses are offered in IT, English and maths. Employment support is also provided.

Highbury resident Will Digan, 63, has completed a number of IT courses at the centre over the past four years. He said: “When I was at school we didn’t have computers, so until I started courses at the Learning Zone I didn’t even know how to use a keyboard. Coming to sessions re-invented what I could do and now I am confident with computers. I can use lots of

26

programmes, design posters for my volunteer work and much more.”

Islington councillor Asima Shaikh, who paid a visit to the centre to mark its re-opening, added: “Making sure local people can access high quality training and education is a key part of our commitment to help people find and keep a job that’s right for them. This new Adult Learning Zone at The Hub is a fine example of Islington Council and Arsenal working together to help residents increase their skills, build their confidence, and improve their employment prospects. Our free neighbourhood courses are ideal for parents returning to work, people who are long-term unemployed or preparing to go to college, and I’d urge local people to take advantage of them.”

For more information on the courses on offer at the Arsenal Learning Zone, contact Elaine Maffrett (Elaine.Maffrett@ islington.gov.uk).

Arsenal supports Market Arsenal stars visit amputee football session Road renovation

Arsenal stars Petr Cech, Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey visited an amputee football session at the Arsenal Hub Home of Arsenal in the Community on Benwell Road in September.

Arsenal legend Liam Brady helped to officially re-open the Market Road football centre in Islington earlier in the season.

The Gunners trio watched the Arsenal London Amps train, helped with some drills and talked with the group. One participant explained how he had lost his leg in a warzone, and another through a football injury.

The facility has undergone a £2.1million refurbishment, with support from Islington Council and Arsenal, the Premier League and The FA Facilities Fund and the Football Foundation.

Arsenal in the Community hosts a weekly programme for the London Amps group, providing coaching support and a 4G surface for the players to come and practise.

It now houses two resurfaced 11-a-side 3G pitches, three additional small-sided pitches and a new changing room complex. There are also improved spectator viewing facilities, with raised walkways between the pitches.

Broadcaster and Islington resident Alex Brooker, who plays for the Arsenal London Amps said of the visit: “I started playing with the team a few weeks ago and it’s brilliant. To have the players come to the session is unreal. I cannot believe that I tried to score against Petr Cech!”

Head of Arsenal in the Community Alan Sefton said of the refurbishment: “We’re very pleased to have been involved in the refurbishment of an important local facility in Market Road. The new pitches and changing rooms will benefit the many leagues that play here, and will also be a great base for our school and community programmes.”

Arsenal has supported a total of 14 pitch refurbishments in Islington, Camden and Hackney in recent years, with many of these pitches used by the Arsenal in the Community team to deliver school and community football programmes.

Arsenal in the Community disability officer Luke Howard said: “The amputee football sessions are a new strand to our disability engagement work and we have a fantastic group of individuals involved who are helping us to grow this in to a great project.”

It is one of a number of Arsenal in the Community programmes for people with disabilities. For full details and to participate, visit www.arsenal.com/community or contact Luke Howard (lhoward@arsenal.co.uk)

MATCHES AT EMIRATES STADIUM Arsenal v Manchester City Arsenal v Bournemouth Arsenal v Newcastle United Monday 21st December 2015 Monday 28th December 2015 Saturday 2nd January 2016 8.00pm kick-off 5.30pm kick-off 3pm kick-off Fixtures are subject to change.

For the latest news visit Arsenal.com or sign up to the fixtures newsletter here: bit.ly/AFCAlerts 27

Noticeboard Follow us!

Keep up with what’s happening in the borough by following us on

Twitter @IslingtonLife Facebook.com/IslingtonLife

Highbury Corner Consultation Public consultation on proposed improvements to Highbury Corner will take place in the New Year.

Please visit https://consultations.tfl.gov.uk/roads/ highbury-corner-roundabout after this date for more information.

www.islington.gov.uk

Make sure you’re registered to vote!

If you’re not registered, you won’t be able to vote in the London Mayoral elections in 2016 or any other elections or referendums.

To register, visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Remember, it’s a legal requirement to put your name on the electoral register.

Crossrail 2 consultation The second phase of public consultation on proposals for Crossrail 2 is underway, which includes plans for a new station at Angel. Crossrail 2 is a proposed new railway line serving London and the South East, linking Surrey to Hertfordshire via Central London destinations, helping relieve increasing pressure on London’s transport network. Have your say on the plans at www.crossrail2.co.uk by 8 January 2016.

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Get online with your local library Islington libraries are changing all the time to keep up with the digital world. Our libraries have free PC access, free Wi-Fi, printers, scanners and comfortable study spaces for you to enjoy.

With 127 PCs across the borough, it’s easy to get online - you just need to be a library member to book one.

Free informal IT training is available for residents at each branch library and our two learning centres - First Steps at Central Library and Islington Computer Skills Centre at Finsbury Library.

You can also reserve books, music and films online and collect them from your nearest library, or simply click online to renew your books and music loans.

Add to this 1200 eBooks and e-Audio titles and online newspapers and magazines and you can see it’s well worth a visit to www.islinton.gov.uk/ libraries!

Caledonian Road Tube station refurbishment Caledonian Road Tube station will be closed from Monday 4 January 2016 to mid-August 2016 while TfL refurbish the lifts. During this period, customers are advised to use Holloway Road Underground station or Caledonian Road and Barnsbury Overground station.

Alternatively passengers can travel on to King’s Cross St. Pancras Underground station on bus routes 17, 91, or 259, which takes around 20 minutes. For more information vtist: tfl.gov.uk/campaign/tubeimprovements/behind-the-scenes/escalatorrefurbishment

At the heart of the for Community focussed Community focussed for community for over 150 years more than 150 years more thanprovides 150 years The Islington Gazette readers with the latest sports and entertainment Visitin usnews, at: www.islingtongazette.co.uk Visit us at: www.islingtongazette.co.uk

www.islingtongazette.co.uk

@islingtongztte @islingtongztte

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facebook.com/islingtongazette facebook.com/islingtongazette

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Recycle your Christmas tree

Please don’t leave your used Christmas trees on the trees: pavement. Four park sites will be set up for recycling • Barnard Park • Elthorne Park • King’s Square • Rosemary Gardens cling You can also recycle your tree at the Reuse and Recy Centre, Hornsey Street, N7.

Estates are designating collection points for trees and residents can contact caretakers for details. tree Residents in street properties can leave their Christmas green ar regul their with at the edge of their property along waste on their normal collection day.

Your child could be eligible for free part-time early learning.

Find out if you qualify!

See the website or visit your local children’s centre for further information www.islington.gov.uk/free2 Or contact the Family Information Service on 020 7527 5959.

Free hire of Islington Assembly Hall If you’re a community organisation or charity based in Islington, you have the chance to apply for free hire of a prestigious venue for an event! The free hire scheme for Islington Assembly Hall on Upper Street opens for applications in January. Applications must show a commitment to provide events and activities that meet certain criteria. For further details, including terms and conditions of the free hire, and to apply, visit www.islington.gov.uk/ islingtonassemblyhall.

New weekend and evening train service in Islington From 13 December the Northern City Line will operate a new weekend and evening service to Moorgate via Drayton Park, Highbury & Islington, Essex Road and Old Street. This will replace off peak trains which previously ran into King’s Cross. Anyone using those stations to get to King’s Cross should change onto the Victoria line at Highbury & Islington.

Visit www.greatnorthernrail.com/December2015 for more details. If you have any queries please email customerservices@greatnorthernrail.com or call 0345 026 4700.

Islington Council does not endorse or warrant any goods, services or organisation advertised on the page, and accepts no liability in respect of same. The council reserves the right to decline any advertisement in its sole and absolute discretion.

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R OU * T Y ASS UES AY P REQ E D FRE

A BETTER WAY TO KEEP FIT

Try our facilities for free and enjoy the full benefits of a Better Health and Fitness membership for a whole day.

With a wide range of activities including exercise classes, gym and swimming you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy.

Claim your free day pass today at www.better.org.uk/guestpasses

In partnership with

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. Customers using the gym must complete a pre-booked induction prior to use. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Only one named person per pass. Use for one day only. Only valid to non members. Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398.

Christmas opening hours Anti-social behaviour line

The anti-social behaviour (ASB) reporting line will operate as normal over Christmas and New Year.

You can report ASB at any time on 020 7527 7272 or at www.islington.gov.uk/reportasb The ASB response team will operate the following hours: 24 December – 12-8pm 25 December – No service 26 December – 5pm-4am 27-30 December – 4pm – 2am 31 December – 12-8pm 1 January – 5pm-4am

Contact Islington

Contact Islington phone lines and the Customer Centre at 222 Upper Street will operate with normal service hours (9am-5pm) from now until 24 December. The festive opening hours are as follows: 24 December - 9am – 4pm 25 - 28 December - Closed 29 December - 9am – 4pm 30 December - 9am – 4pm 31 December - 9am – 4pm 1 January - Closed Normal hours will resume Monday 4 January. Contact Islington phone lines will remain open for out- of-hours emergency housing repairs over the festive period.

020 7527 2000.

Children’s centres

Individual centres’ hours will vary.

Please check www.islington. gov.uk/childrenscentres for more information.

Housing offices and the Housing Aid Team

On Thursday 24 December, all area office receptions and buildings will close at 4pm. All offices will reopen on Monday 4 January 2016.

The housing aid team will be unavailable from 4pm on Thursday 24 December until 9am on Monday 29 December 2015 and again from 4pm on Thursday 31 December until 9am on Monday 4 January 2016.

During these periods, the following services will be unavailable: Housing advice and prevention of homelessness The housing options service and choice based lettings An emergency telephone service is available for people who are homeless and are unable to find alternative accommodation. This service can be accessed via the council’s main switchboard on 020 7527 2000.

Further information can also be found at www.islington.gov.uk/housing.

Islington and St Pancras and Trent Park Cemetery

Both cemeteries will operate normal opening hours aside from the following dates: Islington and St Pancras 25 December - 10am-2pm 26 December - 9am-4pm 1 January - 9am-4pm Trent Park Cemetery 25 December - 10am-4pm 26 December - 10am-4pm 1 January - 10am-4pm

Leisure centres will have different opening hours from normal over the Christmas period. Check online for details at each centre www. better.org.uk/islington

Libraries

Library opening hours over Christmas will be as follows: 24 December – Close at 1pm 25 - 28 December – Closed 29 - 30 December – Open as usual 31 December – Close at 5pm 1 January – Closed 2 January – open as usual

Parks

The gates on all of our parks will remain unlocked from 3pm on Thursday 24 December until 5pm on Sunday 27 December and again from Thursday 31 December until Saturday 2 January. There will be no park keepers in attendance during these times and all sports areas will be open for free use during this period.

Parks are open as normal at all other times.

Rubbish and Recycling

Rubbish and recycling collections that are usually on a Friday will be made one day later over Christmas and New Year. All other collections will remain the same.

Registry office

The registry office opening times will be as follows over the Christmas period: 25 – 28 December – Closed 29 – 31 December – 9am to 4.30pm 1 – 3 January – Closed 4 January – 9am to 4.30pm

Schools

Leisure centres

Schools will be closed for the Christmas holidays from Saturday 19 December until Sunday 3 January. Terms ends on Friday 18 December and starts again on Monday 4 January.

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Apply now for Islington primary schools if your child was born between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012 Everything you want from a school, right on your doorstep: highly skilled and enthusiastic teachers Key Stage 2 results above the national average excellent facilities Apply by 15 January 2016 for the best chance of a reception place at your preferred school. Visit www.islington.gov.uk/admissions

www.islington.gov.uk/admissions