Your local magazine from Islington Council • Autumn 2016
Apply now for a school place
Celebrating fantastic exam results
Update on government’s changes to housing
Community gardening projects and more...
IslingtonLife
02
Contents 03
Welcome Message from the council leader
04
News Islington celebrates excellent exam results
06
Changes to housing The latest on the upcoming housing act
08
Working Better Helping parents back to work
10
Adult Learning Find out how our free courses could change your life
12
Your Home News and information for Islington’s council tenants and leaseholders
16
Getting greener New gardening projects transform lives
18
Safer Islington Be safe this bonfire night
20
What’s on A new farmers’ market arrives in Islington!
22
People’s Plaques Vote for your favourite local people and places
24
Local life Reading for wellbeing and tips on recycling
28
Getting online Find out more about what you can do online – and how you can get the skills you need to do so
30
Health and wellbeing Tips on quitting smoking
32
Arsenal in the Community The latest news from Arsenal
34
Noticeboard Take control of your health conditions
23
Getting hitched New wedding packages at Islington Assembly Hall
Highlights 20
New farmers’ market
24
The latest from Islington’s youth council
28
Getting online made easier
Autumn 2016
03
Welcome
Cllr Richard Watts Leader of the Council
View this and previous issues online at issuu.com/islingtonlifemag 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. Search for IslingtonLife
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
Welcome to the new look council magazine, IslingtonLife. While the magazine has been refreshed, you will still find the same mix of local news, views and information. The magazine for council tenants, Your Home, is also now included as part of the magazine, and if you are a tenant or leaseholder you can find the latest news on pages 12-15. I would like to congratulate every young person who received their exam results this summer. Opening the envelope with your results in is a nerve-wracking experience, but these young people should be very proud of what they have achieved. The transformation of Islington’s schools in recent years has been simply outstanding. All secondary schools and over 90 percent of Islington primary schools are now rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. GCSE results in the borough have seen a dramatic improvement since 2010, with Islington now being ranked well within the top-third for results in the country. Islington’s schools are also in the top ten in the country for helping disadvantaged pupils to achieve good results in SATs exams. You can read more about the latest exam results on page 4. As a parent myself, I know that our schools have great teachers and provide outstanding opportunities for young people. Islington is a wonderful place to live, and it is also a place where people from across London come to work. However, too many local people still find getting decent and secure work difficult. This is why we launched the Islington Employment Commission almost two years ago, to really understand what the barriers are to local people finding work. The Employment Commission has helped
us to take on the challenge of getting more people into work. I am proud that in the last year, more than 1,100 local unemployed residents have been helped into paid work – half of whom had been out of work for a long time. One area we have delivered innovative and ground-breaking new ways of working has been in our support to help residents with disabilities to find work. Thanks to this work, more than 200 people with a long-term health condition or disability have been helped into a job in the last year. We’re also making progress in helping the next generation begin their careers and to learn the skills they will need. Over the last year the council has helped two apprentices a week start on placements and 44 have been at the council. We must make sure that young people get the best start in life and that is why we have protected budgets for youth services, and have made a £500,000 investment in new targeted support to reach out to those young people most at risk of turning to crime. The Islington Bursary is also helping disadvantaged young people stay on in further education. There is much more to do to tackle unemployment and to give everyone in our borough the best possible chance in life. I am determined that, despite the massive cuts from central government to the council, we will continue to make a difference on the things that matter to local people.
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
04
News
Students celebrate exam success Local students have a bright future ahead after achieving impressive results in both A-levels and GCSEs. This year the overall pass rate in A-level and equivalent vocational qualifications in Islington was 96.5 percent, with 70.3 percent
Almina (left) celebrates her A-level results with fellow student Maria Krasteva
of grades at A*-C, and more than half of vocational qualifications at either Distinction (D) or Distinction* (D*). Among the success stories was Highbury Grove student Almina Agus who got an A* in politics, A in English literature and B in history. She will be the first person in her family to go to university.
GCSE provisional results suggest the number of pupils achieving five or more A*-C grades was greater than last year. At St Aloysius College, students Pawel Jelonek landed an impressive 12 A*s and Mario Marin got three A*s, four As and three Bs, plus an A-level in Spanish. Cllr Joe Caluori, the council’s executive member for children, young people and families, said: “The continued success of pupils in Islington is testament to the hard work they have put in over the last two years. But it wouldn’t be possible without the exceptional leadership shown by our amazing headteachers and fantastic teachers in the classroom.”
Autumn 2016
05
News
Apply now for a school place If your child is due to start primary or secondary school next September, make sure you apply online now! If your child was born between 1 September 2005 and 31 August 2006, you must apply for a secondary school place by 31 October 2016. For children born between 1 September 2012 and 31 August 2013, they will be due to start primary school in September 2016. You can apply for their place online by 15 January 2017. If you need help with the online application form, please contact the School Admissions team on 020 7527 5515. For more information and to apply, go to www.islington.gov.uk/ admissions
Cracking down on housing fraud A tenant who falsely obtained a council home while owning other properties in London has been found guilty of fraud and ordered to pay Islington Council over £19,000 in compensation.
The council takes a tough stance on the misuse of its properties. Following an anonymous tip that Nepal Deb was trying to buy a property in Galway House, the housing fraud team launched an investigation. It revealed that Mr Deb had bought properties in Barking and Haringey before he was awarded a council home in 2011. He then
went on to buy another two homes. He was found guilty of fraud and sentenced to 12 months imprisonment suspended for two years and ordered to pay £18,181.80 compensation and £1,555 costs. If you are concerned about housing fraud, go to islington.gov.uk and search for “housing fruad”. islingtonlife.london
06
IslingtonLife
Changes to housing
An update on the government’s Tenant Tax and changes to housing The government has passed new laws which will mean some big changes for council tenants in the future, including rent increases for some tenants. The council has expressed its opposition to these changes as we feel they will have a negative impact, reducing affordable housing and making living in Islington more difficult for some of our residents. We are supporting tenants as much as possible with these changes, and held a massive public meeting earlier this year and have written to all tenants to advise them of the future changes. We will update tenants as we find out more details from the government, but here is a summary of what we know so far:
What are the main
make up of their household or their age
changes for
• Households that receive benefits (Housing Benefit or Universal Credit) will not have to pay Tenant Tax. However if you get Universal Credit you will need to provide proof
tenants? Tenant tax (also known as Pay to Stay) – some tenants will pay more rent. Tenants with an annual household income of over £40,000 will have to pay more to live in their properties – an extra 15p ever year for every £1 they earn above £40,000. The top two incomes among tenants, joint tenants and their spouses will count in this calculation. Rents could be increased from April 2017, but the government has not yet confirmed this. • This new tax applies to all tenants regardless of how long they have been a tenant, the
• Tenants of all ages are eligible to pay Tenant Tax, including pensioners • The council has to collect this money but the money will go to the government. The council will have to ask for proof of tenants’ income Once we know more details from the government, we will write to all tenants who don’t claim Housing Benefit and ask them to provide details of their income. We will try to make the process as simple and clear as possible. • The council will be asking households to provide details of
Autumn 2016
07
Changes to housing
their income, and we will work out which households will have to pay the Tenant Tax • We will let tenants know exactly what information they need to provide and by when, and we will offer help and support if needed. Fixed term tenancies rather than lifetime tenancies Another change being made by the government is ending lifetime tenancies, though all existing lifetime tenancies will be honoured. We expect that at some point in 2017 we will have to start offering fixed term tenancies of between two and ten years. Once we have all the details from the government we will be explaining the changes to those applying for housing and looking to move home. • If you have a lifetime tenancy this will not be affected unless you choose to move home, and family members (excluding spouses or partners) succeeding to a tenancy after the tenant dies will have to be given fixed term tenancies • The council will have to review the tenant’s circumstances towards the end of a fixed term tenancy, to decide if they still have a need for the property they are living in • We hope that we will be able to give longer tenancies to families with young children or whose situation is unlikely to change overtime but we are waiting to find out from government whether they will allow this.
Are you a housing
Benefit Cap
association
The government is reducing the Benefit Cap from 7 November 2016. This means that the total weekly amount of benefits paid to out of work households will reduce from £350 for single people and £500 for couple and lone parent households, to £296.35 and £442.30 per week respectively.
tenant? By law, councils have to make these changes, but Housing Associations can choose whether they do. If you are concerned that you could be affected, please check with your Housing Association to see if they are planning to make any changes. Find out more For up to date information about the Housing Act please visit www.islington.gov.uk/housingact
Sinead’s story Sinead has lived with her husband in their council flat in Islington for 15 years. Sinead and her husband have a 19 year old daughter who suffers from mental health difficulties, and 2 sons aged 8 and 12. She started her career as an office administration apprentice aged 16, and she and her labourer husband now earn a household income that will mean they will be forced to pay a Tenant Tax of £193.75 per month. Sinead told us, “We’ve both worked hard to create a stable home for our children. If we’re forced to pay this new tax we might end up having to leave London. The other alternative is that I give up my job and try to find a part time position instead.”
The cap only affects working age people on out of work benefits and it is likely that around 700 households in Islington could be affected. If you think you might be affected, contact the council’s Income Maximisation (IMAX) team on 020 7527 8600 or email claimit@islington.gov.uk.
The best way of avoiding getting benefits capped is to get into work. The council’s iWork service can provide support to boost your skills and confidence, and there is free training and adult education to help you prepare for work. www.islington.gov.uk/findajob
Council Tax Support From April 2017, the help working-age residents on low incomes can get to reduce their Council Tax bills (known as Council Tax Support) will be changing. Have your say on how the scheme will work in future by 7 November 2016. www.islington.gov.uk/consultations
islingtonlife.london
08
IslingtonLife
Working better
A bright new start for Bridget Long-time Islington resident Bridget Papa-Nikoi decided she wanted to get back into the workplace after her three young children started school. “I was spending a lot of my time at home on my own, which was making me feel a bit down, so I asked my support worker about getting help to find a job.” Bridget was referred to CAP, which provides support for people with learning disabilities to access employment, community activities, education and training. Together with the council’s iWork team, they worked with Bridget to find a job that she wanted to do alongside her parenting responsibilities. She wanted to improve her English skills
too, so she signed up to an adult community learning course. “I now work part-time in the kitchen preparing sandwiches and snacks for the children attending nursery,” Bridget said. “I love my job, especially all the people I work with. I feel happier working!”
Working together Irene Winter is the manager of Hornsey Lane Estate Community Association which hosts the nursery and also provides activities for school age children and older people. “We were approached by iWork about providing job opportunities for people with learning disabilities. We looked at how we could develop a role to match the skills that people have and work from there. Rather than an interview, we set up a work trial, so Bridget had the chance to try the job and see if she liked it and we had the chance to see what she could do. “Bridget has been with us for nearly a year now and has been a real asset to the team. It’s clear that her confidence has grown enormously since she first started.” To make an appointment with iWork, you can call, email or drop into the Customer Centre on Upper Street, or visit one of our children’s centres. 020 7527 2706 iwork@islington.gov.uk www.islington.gov.uk/findajob
Are you an employer? Contact iWork for Business if you want to give someone a chance to show what they can do. iWork@islington.gov.uk 020 7527 2706 Improve your skills If you want to learn new skills, why not sign up for an adult community learning course? Turn the page to find out more.
Autumn 2016
09
Working better
Want to work in
Get your career going with
construction?
an apprenticeship
The Kings Cross Construction Skills Centre offers free courses for unemployed residents to help kick start your career.
Apprenticeships are a great way to start your career. You get paid to do a real job, gain valuable experience and work towards a nationally recognised qualification.
The construction industry is growing and there is huge demand for skilled workers. With certified courses in general construction, carpentry, electrics, plumbing and more, this state of the art training facility can give you the skills you need to move into a job or apprenticeship. If you are 16 or over and want a career in construction, get in touch to make an appointment.
If you are aged 16-24 and not in work, education or training, the council’s iWork Youth Employment team can help you find an apprenticeship. As well as opportunities to work in the council, the team works with local businesses to create apprenticeships in a range of industries. Whatever you’re interested in, we can help you find an apprenticeship that’s right for you.
020 7974 5161 kxcinfo@camden.gov.uk www.kingscrossconstruction.co.uk
Did you know? The council has helped more than 300 people into an apprenticeship in the last three years.
020 7527 3559 youthemploymentteam@islington.gov.uk www.islington.gov.uk/apprenticeships
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
10
Adult learning
Learn new skills with free courses Every year, Islington Council offers a range of free adult learning courses – from CV workshops to GCSE Maths; from making jewellery to working in the construction industry. These courses – some of which offer childcare – are hosted at venues across the borough, and have helped many residents to increase their confidence, develop skills, find work or just try something new. Islington resident Colin (pictured right) recently attended a gadget workshop to learn more about how to use his new smartphone, after previously learning a lot from our email course. Colin says: “I recommend the gadget workshops to anyone who feels they are lagging behind a bit with technology. The one-to-one sessions were especially useful, and everyone was very helpful and friendly.”
Adult learning courses can also be a valuable stepping stone into employment, voluntary work or further education. Residents looking to improve their CVs or interview skills can sign up to an employability programme for lots of helpful hints and tips. Last year, we helped over 100 people into employment. Sign up now for our autumn courses. To find out more, please visit www.adultlearning.islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 5083.
Council courses are free for Islington residents or parents with children in Islington schools. You must be 19+, unemployed, or low-waged and receiving benefits to qualify. You will need to bring ID and proof of benefits with you when you enrol on a course.
Autumn 2016
11
Adult learning
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
12
Your Home
Your Home News for council tenants and leaseholders
New pitches, new programmes, new opportunities
Council tenants are enjoying brand new and improved facilities on some of our estates, offering residents the perfect opportunity to get fit and active.
will include more Double Clubs, which are sessions run by Arsenal in the Community offering young people the chance to exercise and study.
Facilities have been renewed on a number of estates including Corker Walk, Westbourne, Aubert Court and Mayville estate.
If you would be interested in walking football sessions for the over 45s, and pramercise for parents to get fit and meet other mums and dads, please email HCDT@islington.gov.uk to register your interest or call 020 7527 2903.
Check out your local noticeboards and fliers to find out about some of the great activities coming up! These
Residents satisfied with estate activities Nearly 500 parents and carers responded to our recent survey to gauge satisfaction with activities on our estates. We are delighted with the results, which showed that 97 percent of those that responded enjoyed the activities, 95 percent said they feel safe and 92 percent said they made new friends at the sessions. Thanks to everyone who gave their feedback!
Autumn 2016
13
News for council tenants and leaseholders
Cllr Diarmaid Ward and council leader Richard Watts with new tenants at King Henry’s Walk
Tenants move into six new council homes Known as “infill” because they utilise smaller, poorly used areas beside existing properties, the new homes are part of the council’s wider commitment to build new council homes for local people in housing need. The new homes are: King Henry’s Walk - a threebedroom wheelchair-accessible bungalow and a four-bedroom house have replaced two old bungalows, which were no longer fit for purpose
Bennett Court - a new twobedroom flat and three-bedroom maisonette were built on the site of poorly used car parking Thorpedale Road - two twobedroom houses were built on the site of nine dilapidated garages. Two new garages were also built as part of the scheme Cllr Diarmaid Ward, Islington Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:
Six new homes have been built on three sites across Islington, replacing old accommodation and underused car parking and garages. “We’ve looked carefully at where we can build badly-needed new council homes. This has included some smaller sites with one or two homes, as well as much bigger schemes. Each new home makes a difference to people in housing need. “Under our local lettings policy, people from the local estate are given priority for new council homes, together with people who need a specific kind of home, for example wheelchair users.” islingtonlife.london
14
IslingtonLife
Your Home
Fire safety tips Here are some simple safety tips to keep your home safe from fire: • Fit smoke alarms and test them often • Never smoke in bed, in an armchair or on a sofa if you think you might fall asleep • Do not leave a lit cigarette or pipe unattended • Keep matches and lighters well out of the reach of children • Don’t overload electrical sockets • Keep heaters away from furniture and clothing • Make sure candles are put out if you are leaving them unattended • Avoid charging devices like mobile phones when you sleep.
Resident training
Earlier this year, 21 resident volunteer committee members attended free courses to help them learn about involving local people, organising a community event, chairing skills and fundraising. Sign up now for the next training programme by emailing hermela. habtegebrel@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 8232.
Also don’t forget to get your home contents insurance up-to-date in case there is a fire in your building. Islington Council does not provide contents insurance for its residents – so loss or damage to your belongings as a result of fire, theft, flooding or an accident is your responsibility. A scheme has been set up between the council and Aviva to provide contents insurance at a special rate. To find out more, call 020 7527 2000 or visit your area housing office.
Tackling ASB We take anti-social behaviour on our estates very seriously, and will take action against those who persistently offend. Earlier this year, we evicted a tenant of Mowatt Close because of anti-social behaviour including loud parties and intimidation. Islington Council also evicted a tenant of New North Road Estate who had visitors to the flat at all hours of the day and night, taking and dealing drugs, fighting, arguing and loitering outside the building. If you are having problems with anti-social behaviour, please report it online at islington.gov.uk/asb, report it to your Area Housing Office or, out of hours, call 020 7527 7272.
Want to make your estate greener? Interested in gardening but don’t have your own garden? Want to grow your own food but live upstairs? If the answers are yes, then why not form a gardening club? Gardening clubs are a wonderful way of getting to know your neighbours and bringing people together on your estate. You can look after an individual flower bed, or you can set up a community garden. You can also grow food as well as plants and flowers. If you’re interested, please call 020 7527 2903 or email HCDT@islington.gov.uk
Autumn 2016
15
News for council tenants and leaseholders
Improving housing services The Service Review Group is made up of Islington Council tenants and residents who look at ways to improve housing services. The latest review looked at how the council communicates with residents when building new homes.
a more open process so they are aware of the potential impact the new build scheme may have on their local area.
Residents are already consulted at all stages of the new build process, and the housing team attends meetings with residents to ensure they are aware of all the processes involved.
If you would like to get involved with the service review group visit www.islington.gov.uk/ residentinvolvement, call 020 7527 4079 or email service. development@islington.gov.uk
However, there is room for improvement. Residents said they would like clearer communications, and wanted to see other methods used such as videos and photos of completed homes. They also want
Celebration for Charteris This year is a landmark for residents living in the Charteris Neighbourhood Tenant Co-operative as they have now been delivering their own local housing services for 40 years.
These views will be taken into account with all future new build developments.
Interested in learning about and improving your housing services? Want to earn a qualification? We’ve teamed up with the London Metropolitan University to offer an accredited course for residents starting in January 2017. The FREE one day and two evenings course is designed to give residents an understanding of improving housing services and covers: y Developing knowledge on the context to social housing and the aims of Islington Council in particular
Make a difference and influence decisions on housing services in your area.
y Identifying good practice in delivering housing services y Developing skills in improving the performance of their social landlord y Information and skills enabling residents to challenge performance in an assertive and productive way
The co-op, set up in 1976, manages 90 council-owned, Victorian street properties in the Finsbury Park area. It was one of the first local authority, tenant management co-operatives established anywhere in the country. Over the years, the committee has changed as residents have come and gone, and it has had to respond changes to housing policy, such as Right to Buy, that has changed how services have been delivered. It’s a real testament to the residents’ hard work that 40 years on the co-op is still going strong.
For more information and an application form, please contact 020 7527 4079 / 020 7288 8330 service.development@Islington.gov.uk amanda.tayler@partnersislington.net Working in partnership
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
16
Getting greener
How does your garden grow?
The Finsbury Park Homeless Families Project works with people on a range of activities including gardening and household budgeting. other issues they may need reassurance on. They also run arts and crafts sessions with the children, and recently started a herb garden with the families after it was suggested by one of the residents.
Peregrine Reception Centre provides temporary housing for homeless families. The Finsbury Park Homeless Families Project works
closely with these families in lots of ways, with budgets, housing applications, benefits, health and wellbeing and any
Students from a special needs school have also been flexing their green fingers. Throughout the summer term, students from The Courtyard, part of St Mary Magdalene Academy, took part in a work experience programme to improve the food growing area at Gillespie Park and the Ecology Centre. They prepared the raised beds, planted lettuce, peas, spinach, basil and strawberries, helped build a rainwater catchment system, weeded, watered and harvested their produce.
The families have now grown tomatoes, butternut squash, cucumbers, peas, chillis and lots of different herbs. It’s been a great way to bring the families together, as well as giving an opportunity to teach the children about healthy eating. It has been very successful and they plan to make it a permanent feature.
CHANGE YOUR LIFE GET A PLACE AT BIRKBECK Birkbeck is a unique and special place. We know the ‘standard’ university model isn’t for everyone. Whatever your age, if you are interested in continuing with your education, keen to develop new skills to enhance or change your career, or looking to get back into education, we’ll be able to offer the right course for you.
Open Evening Thursday 24 November bbk.ac.uk
LONDON’S EVENING UNIVERSITY
18
IslingtonLife
Safer Islington
Celebrate safely this Bonfire Night Autumn is traditionally a time for bonfires and fireworks, but it’s also one of the busiest periods for the Fire Brigade. We want everyone in the borough to enjoy the celebrations safely and the best way to do that is to use common sense. It’s important to remember that many of the Bonfire Night fires we see in our borough could easily be prevented. To avoid fires and accidents our advice is to always attend
organised displays as they’re much safer. But if you are planning on holding your own, follow these safety tips: 1. Never leave bonfires unattended and make sure they’re fully out before leaving them. An adult should supervise it until it has burnt out. If it has to be left, damp it down with plenty of water. 2. Build and light bonfires well away from buildings, sheds, fences, bushes and trees.
London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for Islington Patrick Goulbourne explains how to enjoy a safe Bonfire Night and Diwali. 3. Light fireworks at arm’s length using a taper and stand well back. 4. Never go back to fireworks once they are lit. Even if a firework hasn’t gone off, it could still explode. 5. Never use flammable liquids to start a bonfire. As with every year, we’ll be working with the police and the council to make sure fires and anti-social behaviour during this period are kept to a minimum.
Have you still not had your flu jab? If you’re 65 or over or you have a long-term health condition, flu can be serious. That’s why you’re eligible for a free flu jab. Don’t put it off. Get your flu jab straight away.
nhs.uk/staywell
Cheril Sowell, Nurse
20
IslingtonLife
What’s On
Fresh food direct from the farm A new farmers’ market has arrived in Islington, bringing fresh food direct from the farmers who grow it. There will be something for everyone, with seasonal and organic produce from farms based within 100 miles of London.
Find out more about farmers’ markets at www.lfm.org.uk, and follow the new market on Twitter @Londonfarmers and Facebook.com/ highgatehillfarmersmarket. You can also find out more about markets in Islington at www.islington.gov.uk/markets Where St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Highgate Hill, N19 5NE When Every Sunday 10am-2pm rain or shine
Autumn 2016
21
What’s On
Kids get coding
Coming up at Islington Assembly Hall…
It’s not too late for youngsters aged 8-14 years to join the Wizzie Wizzie Computer Coding Club. Classes take place in three venues every Saturday and introduce children to computer programming so they can make their own games and other cool stuff. Find out more and sign up at www.wizziewizzie.org
Community electrical repair event Do you have an electrical item in need of repair? Then come along to this free event where you can get help to fix your electricals and find out how to avoid throwing them away. If you have something you want to repair, bring all of its chargers, adaptors and power leads. Please note there will not be spare parts or replacement mobile screens available. Where: Finsbury Library, 245 St. Johns Street, EC1V 4NB When: 22 October, 12-3pm
Max Cooper
Check out the full line-up at www.islingtonassemblyhall.com and enter a competition to win a year’s worth of gig tickets! Also keep up to date on Twitter @Islington_AH. Some of the highlights this season are: Gabrielle The South London legend’s solo tour will bring her to the N1 venue in November.
Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet The legendary London 70s and 80s soul, funk and disco night brings the party back to N1.
When: 6 and 16 November
When: 3 December
Tinariwen The Grammy Award-winning Saharan blues band is here in November.
The Blockheads In the run up to Christmas, The Blockheads will be playing all the old favourites.
When: 9 November
When: 17 December
Max Cooper The artist has carved out his own space between the worlds of emotional dancefloor experimentation and endlessly varied attempts to examine the scientific world through visuals.
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
When: Friday 2 December
islingtonlife.london
22
IslingtonLife
Islington People’s Plaques
Vote now for Islington
Derek Jarman (1942-1994) Artist, film director and LGBT activist The acclaimed film director was an advocate for gay rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Richard Cloudesley (c1465-1517) Benefactor Left money in his will to support Islington residents and maintain the borough’s churches.
Thomas Lord (1755-1832) Founder of Lord’s Cricket Ground and businessman Employed as attendant and bowler at the White Conduit Cricket Club in Barnsbury.
Laurence ‘Laurie’ Cunningham (1956-1989) Footballer The first black player to represent England in the under-21 side when he played against Scotland in 1977. Finsbury Park Empire One of the most famous music halls and variety theatres in London.
Richard Price (1723-1791) Philosopher and political radical He lived in 54 Newington Green in what is now the oldest brick terrace in London.
n
Elsie Chamberlain (1910-1991) Congregational minister, RAF chaplain and broadcaster A pioneering woman who worked in professions that were, at the time, dominated by men.
gh Borou of Islin on gt d o on
Islington People’s Plaques lin g
ue
s
Is
Islington’s People’s Plaques celebrate our diverse and rich heritage by commemorating significant people, places and events in the borough, and voting is now open for the next round of winners! Choose one contender from the ten nominations below. The three nominations that receive the most votes will be awarded an Islington People’s Plaque.
L
People’s Plaques!
to n
q People’s Pla
Red Bull Playhouse 17th century playhouse and theatre Built to rival Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, the Red Bull Playhouse was erected in 1605. Harley Sherlock MBE (1925-2014) Architect and pioneer of community architecture He lived and worked in Islington and campaigned throughout his life to improve city and rural life through architecture. PC Alfred Smith (1880-1917) For heroic actions in WWI An officer of the Metropolitan Police, he was killed while saving the lives of around 150 women and children during a heavy-bomber raid in 1917.
Vote online now at www.islingtonlife.london or pick up a voting card from any Islington library or Islington Museum.
Autumn 2016
23
Frances Carlisle www.francescarlisle.co.uk
Getting hitched
Getting hitched in Islington Calling all engaged couples!
as ÂŁ3,500! Contact the team on 020 7527 8900 to find out more and arrange a viewing.
There are a variety of new wedding packages on offer at Islington Assembly Hall to suit all tastes and budgets, including hire from as little
Find out about wedding ceremonies at other Islington venues at sayidoislington.co.uk
Be sure to put 5 March 2017 in your diary, as the Chosen Wedding Fair returns to Islington Assembly Hall, bringing together the most unique suppliers to add the final touches to your big day.
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
24
Local life
Councillors Tim Nicholls and Olly Parker, both members of the National Autistic Society, launch the new autism-friendly book collection at Central Library
Reading for wellbeing Since 2012, Islington libraries have stocked the Reading Well collection – collections of books that can help residents manage their health and wellbeing using self-help reading on a range of topics. One of the most successful schemes is Reading on Prescription, which provides a range of books for common mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, phobias and some eating disorders. The scheme has now been extended to include Books on Prescription for 13-18 year olds. Rosemary Doyle, Head of Libraries and Heritage Services, said: “At a time when we know mental health
issues among young people are increasing, it is so important that they can access free, high-quality information, advice and support. “These books are absolutely fantastic resources and cover a range of topics, such as self-harm and difficult life pressures, like bullying and exams.” There is also a new collection in Central Library of around 40 books
on autism, to boost familiarity of the condition and support people with autism and their carers and friends. Other collections include Reading Well Books on Prescription for people with dementia and their carers, ‘mood-boosting books’ – a collection of uplifting novels and poetry, and the carers’ collection. Find out more at www.islington.gov.uk/libraries
Autumn 2016
25
Local life
Be a better recycler! It costs £80 for every tonne of rubbish you throw out, but just £15 for every tonne of recycling. The cost of throwing rubbish away is also going to increase far more steeply in the future than the cost of recycling. If you use the borough’s recycling banks, please follow these simple rules to make the process easier for everyone: • Keep the area around and on top
of the recycling banks clear of items (no dumping) • Only place recycling in the recycling banks (no rubbish) • Avoid using black sacks or plastic bags to place recycling in the bank (it will be mistaken for rubbish and may prevent the bin from being emptied) If items that cannot be recycled are included, the whole vehicle load of recycling may not be accepted by the recycling facility and is then treated as rubbish. Find out more about recycling at www.islington.gov.uk/recycling
Love your neighbour North London Cares works across Islington and Camden to bring together young professionals and their older neighbours (over 65) to spend time with one another and feel better connected to their community. Our older neighbours can help our younger volunteers to feel closer to the history of our community and feel a greater sense of belonging, while volunteers allow their older neighbours to feel better connected to the changing people and places around us. There are lots of free group activities from film and dance parties to yoga and trips to the theatre. We also have a one-to-one programme for neighbours who may be a little less mobile. Volunteers drop by for a bit of extra company and bring a little of the outside world in. Volunteer Omari from AOL and neighbour Liz share a joke at a recent lunchtime concert in Islington
To find out more, call Joe on 020 7118 3838 or visit www.northlondoncares.org.uk islingtonlife.london
26
IslingtonLife
Local life
Youth councillor Honey Baker tells IslingtonLife about how she and her fellow youth councillors are getting to know local young people... We used the next session at Platform to discuss ideas with young people, and they helped choose the name of The Launchpad for the summer activity programme for 16-24 year olds! Personally, I ran an information stand at my school – Arts and Media School Islington – and I was so pleased that over 40 young people visited the stall, which provided information about the youth council and summer activities. I love speaking with young people face to face and hearing their thoughts and ideas about free time activities, and I’ll definitely be running more stalls later this year. In addition I’m hoping to set up a meeting with my head teacher to talk about work experience. Young people have also contacted us directly about issues concerning them, including housing, help with schoolwork and improving education around keeping safe in relationships.
One of the main things we wanted to do when we were elected was to meet as many young people in Islington as possible. So we’re holding monthly Meet and Greet sessions at different venues
like youth hubs and schools. Our first session at Rose Bowl focused on youth provision and Youth Councillor Zarin introduced the facilities provided at the centre to everyone who attended.
We’re planning to hold more Meet and Greet sessions over the coming months. Please keep in touch with us on Twitter and Instagram @IslingtonYC, or email us at youthcouncil@ islington.gov.uk – you can even tell us where you think our next session should be held!
Autumn 2016
27
Local life
Become a young cadet British Transport Police (BTP) is seeking young people aged between 13 and 15 from Islington to join its cadet unit. The cadets are a voluntary uniformed group for young people who want to make a positive impact on their community and for passengers on the rail network. They get involved in a range of activities, from community gardening to assisting with stewarding local events. They also go on trips across the country and have the opportunity to take
part in national cadet competitions. One of the cadets, Noranne, 14, said: “I joined BTP cadets to try something new, something that wasn’t typical of any clubs I’ve heard of. You should join the cadets as it’s a great experience and also it’s great fun!” If you’re looking for a new challenge, new friends and an opportunity to make a real difference to the community, then visit www.btp.police.uk/cadets and go to Twitter @btpcadets
Success for
Helping YOU
summer
be healthier
soiree The council’s summer tea party was a great success again this year, with over 180 residents aged 65 and over coming to Islington Assembly Hall to enjoy music, magic and comedy. The most special part of the event was wishing Ivy Watts a happy 100th birthday!! Ivy Watts performed a song for everyone and was presented with gifts by Islington’s Mayor, Kat Fletcher, pictured here with Ivy.
Being healthy can be hard, but help is at hand. One You Islington brings together apps, tips and information about local services for a variety of health and lifestyle issues, including healthy eating, weight loss, getting active, smoking, drinking and mental health. Find out more at oneyouislington.org
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
28
Getting online
Facelift for council website Over the last few months, we’ve been working hard to make some improvements, using your feedback to make it easier to do what you need to do at www.islington.gov.uk.
#easieronline Our new website works on any device, meaning you can now do what you need on the go, at any time. This could be anything from paying your council tax, renewing your parking permit, or just finding out when your recycling gets picked up.
If you’ve visited the council website recently, you’ll notice things look a bit different…
Build your IT skills If you need help to develop your digital skills there are plenty of opportunities locally, including at our popular gadget workshops (see page 10). Call 020 7527 2000 to find out more. We’re also linking up with local businesses and voluntary organisations to find more ways to help residents get online so keep an eye out for further opportunities coming soon.
Daniel renewed his parking permit online in front of his favourite TV show
As well as being easier and more convenient for you, it also costs us less than if you call or visit us so it helps keep our costs down. This in turn helps us to protect essential services, such as keeping our streets clean, or caring for older people, which becomes increasingly tough as we face continued cuts to our budget.
Let us know what you think We’re not finished yet. It’s an ongoing process so we’ll be continuing to work on improving things further. We do rely on your feedback to get it right though, so if you are on the website take a couple of minutes to let us know what you think.
Get online for free If you haven’t got access to the internet, no problem. There are plenty of places around the borough where you can get online for free, including all our ten libraries and most council buildings – all of which now have free wi-fi. To find your nearest location call 020 7527 2000. For more options you can also visit ukonlinecentres.com
www.islington.gov.uk is helping make life easier Book. Pay. Report. Find.
Keep in touch! Want to find out more about what’s happening in your local area? Interested in events, community news and more? Then check out the new islingtonlife.london.
website at
It’s the place to go for the latest news, views and events taking place near you. You can also follow us on Twitter @IslingtonLife and on Facebook /IslingtonLife
UNION CHAPEL
ANGEL STATION
IslingtonLife
30
Health and wellbeing
Coughing for three weeks or more? If you’ve got a serious cough, or get out of breath doing everyday things, don’t ignore it, tell your doctor. Catching health conditions early means they are easier to treat. Find out more at www. nhs.uk/beclearoncancer
Make 2016 the year you quit smoking for good Did you know, if you can stop smoking for 28 days, you are five times more likely to quit for good? Stoptober, the 28-day stop smoking challenge, is back and there’s lots of support available to help you quit. For more information go to oneyouislington.org, search Stoptober on Facebook or Twitter #Stoptober2016
Get your flu jab! Free flu vaccinations are offered by GPs and pharmacies to people over 65, adults and children with specific health conditions, pregnant women, children aged 2-4 and those in school years 1 and 2. Make an appointment today! Find out more at www.nhs.uk/staywell
Autumn 2016
31
Health and wellbeing
I want to be an CareMyWay organ donor Eight out of 10 people support organ donation. But half the adults in England have NEVER talked to anyone about donating their organs when they die.
If you’re registered with a GP in Islington, you will have received a letter about CareMyWay. This is the new electronic record that means all your health and social care information will be stored in one place.
Families are more likely to agree to organ donation if they know it’s what their relative would have wanted. So, please talk it over and help your loved ones to support your decision.
This will mean a faster and better service for you, and will help health and social care professionals make better decisions about your care because they will have a more complete picture.
Find out more at www.organdonation.nhs.uk
If you do not want to have a CareMyWay record, you should
HOW ARE YOU?
contact your GP surgery and tell them you have chosen not to participate. For more information please visit www.islingtonccg.nhs.uk/ caremyway
In our adult years, the lifestyle choices we make can dramatically increase our chances of becoming ill later in life. Making small changes now can improve your health right away and double your chances of staying healthy as you get older. It’s never too late to start. Go to oneyouislington.org and take the free health quiz to see how you score.
islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
32
Arsenal in the community
10 Years at Emirates Stadium Back in 1999, Arsenal Football Club announced its intention to leave Highbury after 93 years for a brand new stadium. Seven years later, what had often seemed unimaginable became a reality and the club moved into the state-ofthe-art Emirates Stadium. This season, Arsenal celebrates 10 years in its new home. Arsenal Director Ken Friar said: “In the early days at Emirates Stadium,
Highbury was never far from our thoughts. But the feel around the stadium is now very much akin to the special atmosphere that always pervaded Highbury. This is generated by our incredible supporters, who have flocked to the stadium match after match, season after season. “Our relocation also allowed the club to grow deeper roots with its local community. We have been heavily involved in the regeneration of the
area and are immensely proud of the positive influence we have in Islington. Long will this continue with our ongoing developments and work with the local community.” To mark the anniversary, Arsenal legend and lifelong Islington resident Charlie George gave residents tours of Emirates Stadium. Arsenal in the Community also hosted football sessions for children living close to the ground.
£1m Raised Thanks to Legends Game Arsenal hosted The Arsenal Foundation’s Legends Match at Emirates Stadium in September against AC Milan Legends Milan Glorie. Kanu scored a hat-trick and Robert Pires netted the fourth, to secure a 4-2 win for the Gunners and a fantastic trip down memory lane for the sell-out crowd.
Freddie Ljungberg meets youngsters ahead of the Legends match.
Thanks to the generosity of the players and the 60,000 supporters who bought tickets, the game raised £1million to build football pitches for children in north London, as well as in Jordan and Somalia.
Autumn 2016
33
Arsenal in the community
Arsenal Stars Visit Market Road
Arsène Wenger meets youngsters from Arsenal in the Community’s Kicks programme.
Arsène Wenger, Jack Wilshere and Arsenal Ladies captain Alex Scott took part in a community football event at Market Road in August to celebrate the start of the new Premier League season.
Arsenal home fixtures Per Mertesacker unveils Arsenal’s Dream Jar.
Arsenal Install Dream Jar at Emirates Stadium The Arsenal Foundation teamed up with its global charity partner Save the Children to support The BFG Dream Jar Trail this summer.
Arsenal’s very own BFG (Big Friendly German) Per Mertesacker unveiled the Arsenal Dream Jar at Emirates Stadium.
Inspired by the release of the BFG film, the Dream Jar initiative has seen dozens of organisations and celebrities support public art installations to raise money for children across the world.
The jar depicts two children playing football on a patch of grass – symbolising Arsenal’s commitment to creating safe places for young people to play football.
Premier League Saturday 15 October, 15:00 Arsenal v Swansea Champions League Wednesday 19 October, 19:45 Arsenal v Ludo Razgd Premier League Saturday 22 October, 15:00 Arsenal v Middlesbrough EFL Cup Tuesday 25 October, 19:45 Arsenal v Reading Premier League Sunday 6 November, 12:00 Arsenal v Tottenham Champions League Wednesday 23 November, 19:45 Arsenal v Paris St Germain Premier League Sunday 27 November, 14:15 Arsenal v Bournemouth Please note: all fixtures are subject to change islingtonlife.london
IslingtonLife
34
Noticeboard Take control of long-term health conditions Living with the pain, stress or fatigue from an on-going health problem, while trying to follow health advice and coping with demands from family or work can be overwhelming. People facing this situation can get help from the Expert Patients Programme, a free course for anyone living with any long-term health condition and their carers. For more information on this and a Diabetes Self-Management Programme, contact Frances on 020 7527 1189/1558 or email whh-tr.Self-Management@nhs.net
Protect yourself against financial abuse Think that most financial abuse against older people is committed by strangers? The sad truth is that most people are financially abused by people they know. Take steps now to protect yourself from financial abuse in the future by making a Lasting Power of Attorney – someone who can set out your wishes about who and how you want your finances to be looked after when you are no longer able to do so. Search ‘Power of Attorney’ at gov.uk.
At the heart of the for Community focussed Community for community for focussed over 150 years
more more than than 150 150 years years
The Islington Gazette provides 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
@islingtongztte
If you’re worried about someone, please report it by calling 020 7527 2299 or emailing access.service@islington.gov.uk.
facebook.com/islingtongazette facebook.com/islingtongazette
facebook.com/islingtongazette
Boost your skills and career prospects with FREE learning for adults
35
Are you looking to get a job? Or just interested in learning a new skill? With our huge range of free courses, we have something for everyone. Drop in and find out which course is perfect for you!
Every Tuesday 1 – 4pm
Every Thursday Every Friday 9.30am – 12.30pm 9.30am – 12.30pm
First Steps Learning Centre, N5 1PF T: 020 7527 7002
Arsenal Learning Centre, N7 7BA T: 020 7704 4500
3Corners Learning Centre, EC1R 0HU T: 020 7527 5083
Family Learning Fun Day – Wonderful World! Come and discover secrets of nature, take part in exciting experiments and get creative with fun craft activities.
Saturday 12 November at First Steps, between 11am and 2.30pm To book call one of our Learning Centres on any of the numbers above. Courses and services are for Islington residents or those with children at an Islington school. You must be 19+ and on a low wage or receiving benefits to be eligible for our free courses. Please bring proof of identity and proof of receipts of benefit with you on the day. For information about what to bring please visit www.adultlearning.islington.gov.uk.
islingtonlife.london
.
Apply now for Islington secondary schools if your child was born between 1 September 2005 and 31 August 2006 Everything you want from a school, right on your doorstep: inspiring teaching
excellent facilities
strong results
great opportunities
Apply by 31 October 2016 for the best chance of a place at your preferred school. Visit www.islington.gov.uk/admissions
www.islington.gov.uk/admissions