IslingtonLife autumn 2023

Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz Leader of the council

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We want everyone who lives and works in Islington to enjoy what our borough has to offer. Making connections, socialising with friends and working through difficult times are all key to our wellbeing. That’s why Islington’s thousands of volunteers and community groups – and more than 1,500 charities based in our borough – are so important.

In community centres, small offices, or working at home with a laptop on the table or sofa, countless people put in hours of voluntary work to directly help others. And they deserve to be celebrated.

In this autumn’s IslingtonLife, we look at some of the brilliant voluntary and community organisations that make such a difference in Islington (pp8–9) – like Maa Shanti, which gives support to South Asian women who are survivors of domestic abuse, and IBAA, which provides advice and a bigger voice to community groups supporting some of Islington’s most disadvantaged people. Then there’s the Islington Somali Community, which helps Somalian refugees with everything they need to fully integrate into life in London.

We see every day the huge benefits of Islington’s volunteers and community groups, and the way they help to create a more equal borough for us all.

So, despite years of Government cuts to council budgets, we’re committing £2.7million every

year to support our voluntary and community sector. Working together, we can achieve so much more.

Another way we’re working with local people for the benefit of our community is in the creation of our new Black Cultural Centre. We know our Black community, and groups that serve them, would like to see a space where they can come together for support and celebration.

This year is also the 75th anniversary of the Empire Windrush bringing migrants from the Caribbean to the UK: together with our residents, we want to create a legacy for the future. So, this summer, we’ve been talking with people about what they want to see in their new centre (p6).

A key part of what makes Islington great is our array of parks and green spaces, and autumn is a great time to get out and about in the borough. Islington has so many gems, inside and outside – you may not realise some of the things that are on your doorstep! Take a walk to Sunnyside Gardens or Canonbury Square (p14). Or, if you can afford a night out, you could support one of our amazing local venues and pay them a visit to see some music or comedy (pp10–11).

Together, we can make a real difference to the lives of people living in our borough and help make sure everyone gets the chances they deserve to thrive.

Free fun at your local library

Islington Libraries have a jampacked schedule of free events lined up this October, including Go Green-themed activities for National Libraries Week (2–8 October); exciting events for Black History Month; and the launch of a collection of books for children with dyslexia. Look out for more details on the Find Your Islington Directory.

findyour.islington.gov.uk

Christmas lights events

Is it ever too early to start thinking about Christmas? Not in our book! Starting on Saturday 18 November at Nag’s Head – brought to you by Islington Council – Islington’s high streets will begin to shine as the borough’s free festive events return. Expect live music and free family-friendly activities. Visit the IslingtonLife website for full listings and details.

islingtonlife.london/Christmas

Join Apple Day at Gillespie Park!

The annual Apple Day returns to Gillespie Park on Sunday 22 October. A fun, apple-filled day for all the family, there’ll be special apple varieties to try, juicing on site, kids’ crafts, face painting, pond dipping, live music and stalls selling local wares. The event is free to attend but please bring cash for the stalls as there will be no card machines.

Islingtonlife.london/things-to-do

A bloomin’ good job

This year’s Islington in Bloom gardening competition was bigger and better than ever! Winners were celebrated at a big event at the Resource for

London Centre on Holloway Road this month. Look out for the full list of winners, as well as for the London in Bloom awards, which will be announced on the In Bloom websites very soon.

islington.gov.uk/InBloom

Remember your voter ID

New rules have been introduced by Government that require all voters to bring photo ID when voting at a polling station. If you don’t have an approved form of photo ID, residents are encouraged to apply for a free voter authority certificate to vote. Make sure you don’t leave it too late!

Get organised now and make sure you know what you need before the next elections roll around by visiting the council website, or call 020 7527 3110 for more information.

islington.gov.uk/Voting

Students’ exam success

Congratulations to all who received exam results this summer. Students celebrated strong performances in their A-Level, GCSE, vocational and technical courses, helping them on their way to bright and brilliant futures.

Thinking about next steps? School applications are now open. Secondary school applications need to be submitted by 31 October and primary school applications by 15 January.

Visit the council website for more information and to apply, or call the admissions team on 020 7527 5515 for support.

islington.gov.uk/Admissions

for life. Council staff attended the event, gifting Ivy flowers and a heartfelt card.

Born in Guyana, Ivy moved to Islington in the early 1970s and worked as a seamstress. But her talents go beyond the sewing needle: Ivy has a passion for singing and a video of her dancing on her 103rd birthday even went viral on Facebook! We wish Ivy all the best, and many more healthful years.

Greener streets for schools

Happy 107th birthday to Ivy!

In July, Islington’s oldest living resident, Ivy Watts, celebrated her 107th birthday. The date was marked with music and dancing –capturing Ivy’s continued zest

The start of the school term has seen many children, parents, and teachers enjoying greener, more inviting streets. Major improvements have been introduced outside Robert Blair, Montem, and St Joseph’s Primary Schools thanks to the School Streets scheme.

Through the scheme, roads are temporarily closed to cars, helping create a more pleasant atmosphere outside and a safer journey to and from school.

islington.gov.uk/SchoolStreets

Centre of the community

Ahead of the opening of a new Black Cultural Centre in Islington, we talk to some of the people involved in its creation about why it’s needed, the services it will offer, and how the centre will bring Islington’s Black community together

Last year, the council ran its biggest-ever engagement project, Let’s Talk Islington, to find out residents’ experiences and opinions of inequality in the borough. A huge number of you took part, including in offshoots of the project such as Let’s Talk Being Black in Islington, which saw residents join in workshops and answer surveys to share their views.

What’s going to come of it? Feedback was varied – and the outcomes will be, too (watch this space for updates). But one of the recurring themes was that people from the Black community, and the community groups that serve them, wanted a dedicated space for support; a space where the community can come together and celebrate Black history and culture.

“Residents were very open about the support and services they need. Discussions explored why the Black population is reducing in Islington, housing concerns, employment support and health inequalities – as well as experiences of racism and discrimination,” says senior project manager Keisha Bristol. “Many residents spoke of the importance of harnessing community power and how bringing people together to address some of these issues could build connections, and help foster a greater sense of belonging for the

Black community.” The idea for a new Black Cultural Centre was born.

Throughout the summer, the challenging inequality and events team, Keisha, Isabella and Sharie, met with local community centre leaders to raise awareness of the plans for a new cultural centre. They also ran workshops and an online survey, to make sure the centre genuinely meets local people’s needs.

The council was also on the lookout for somebody rooted within the Black community in Islington to run the centre – the new operator will be announced at the end of October, with a view to the centre being opened by the end of this year. “The aim is to provide a safe space for residents of African and Caribbean heritage to receive

Isabella, Tyra and Rani at Caledonian Park mural, inspired by local Windrush stories

culturally appropriate support and services, that will tackle issues that were raised through the engagement,” Keisha explains.

The Centre will celebrate the history, achievements and contributions of Black people, showcasing vibrant stories through art, music, dance, drama, literature and food.

“I am so pleased that a Black Cultural Centre will now be set up in Islington,” says Rani, trustee at Hanley Crouch Community Centre and participant in the project. “We need a future where equality and achievement for all is a reality, and I believe we need to understand our past in order to build a meaningful future. We all need to support this venture in any capacity we can.”

Others are looking forward to having a place that brings people together. “The cultural centre is a great idea. It will create a sense of unity,” says Islington Young Mayor Ameera. “In a place as big as London, it is hard to feel that. The centre will bring together people of a similar background, with similar experiences, and show us we are not alone. I hope it will become a place anyone can go to feel safe and united.” A dedicated space to bring people together will not only harness a sense of belonging, but provide Black residents

Celebrating Windrush 75

Sir Geoffrey Palmer, scientist and human rights activist

with an opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences. “I hope that many events and activities will be held there, and that young people will attend on school trips,” says youth cllr Tyra. “It should be a fun place, where all are welcome. This centre, to me, will mean a place to share my knowledge, gain more knowledge, and connect with different people.”

For more information and updates, visit: islington.gov.uk/BlackCulturalCentre

This year marks 75 years since the Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks, Essex, bringing more than 1,000 Caribbean migrants to the UK – some of whom settled in Islington. Here are just some of the famous local faces who were descended from the Windrush generation:

Geoffrey Palmer came to the UK in 1955, joining his dressmaker mother who had travelled here before him. He lived with her and his brother in a one-bedroom flat on Caledonian Road. Despite facing multiple rejections, not to mention racism, Geoffrey achieved a PhD in grain science and technology, for which he was later honoured with an OBE.

Alongside his academic career, Geoffrey was a human rights activist and heavily involved in

charity work. He was knighted in 2014 for services to human rights, science and charity.

Andrea Levy, author

Andrea Levy was born at Whittington Hospital in 1956, to Jamaican parents who immigrated to the UK as part of Windrush. She grew up on the Blackstock Estate and attended Highbury Hill Grammar (now Highbury Fields School). Andrea went on to write celebrated and influential works that explored the experiences of the Windrush generation in the UK. Sadly, Andrea

died of cancer in 2019. Her life and work was celebrated with a plaque on her childhood home on Elwood Street, Highbury, in March 2020.

Troyton Bunbury BEM, school caretaker

Troyton Bunbury grew up in Archway, having travelled here from Guyana – following on from his parents – in the 1970s, when he was 11 years old. Troyton was a dedicated caretaker at St Michael’s Primary School in Highgate for 20 years. He was recognised for his services to education with a BEM in this year’s honours list.

Better together

Our volunteers and community organisations make a huge difference to people’s lives in Islington: from offering reading and writing support to helping survivors of domestic abuse. We find out more about their work, and how the council supports them

There are more than 1,500 charities in Islington – from small, grassroots organisations supporting specific communities, to branches of multi-national corporations. Each plays a vital role in helping achieve a more equal Islington for all; one in which everyone can thrive.

Between Covid and the cost-ofliving crisis, however, the last few years have been tough. There are more people who need help than ever. The council has been working closely with community

partners to support as many people as possible. “Despite cuts, the council has committed £2.7million a year to supporting voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations,” says Pam Aristokle, who works for the council’s community partnerships team. “That’s £10.8million over our four-year grant programme.” The first round of funding ran from 2020–2024; successful applicants for the next round (2024–2028) will be announced in December.

We talk to some of the previously funded organisations to find out more about how the grants are making a difference.

Kristyna Brozova, co-ordinator at Islington BAMER Advice Alliance (IBAA)

IBAA was set up to bring

community groups together and create an advice network. The idea was that together, they’ll have a bigger voice when it comes to getting funding and policy advocacy. It also takes the administrative burden off the people who are delivering frontline services.

We focus on very marginalised subgroups of the Black, Asian Minority Ethnic and Refugee community: people who are often living in disadvantaged parts of the borough and who might be illiterate or have lower levels of education, so there are a lot of vulnerabilities and specific support needs.

Many of the cases we see are very complex, so sometimes it’s not just about providing advice, but keeping people on the system until we’ve made sure

all their needs are met. Often people are not comfortable going to bigger organisations or the council. Here, they can speak to somebody in their mother tongue and explain exactly what they need, in confidence.

It’s great to work in Islington –all the organisations go above and beyond, and the council is actually interested and involved in what we do. You can see that they really care. The funding we received from them is the spine of everything – we wouldn’t be able to do anything without it! It pays for two days of an advice worker’s time at five different organisations, as well as two days of the IBAA co-ordinator’s salary. It’s the lifeblood of IBAA.

Catherine

Maa Shanti was founded by three women in the South Asian community who came together because they were aware there were many South Asian women without support. It quickly became clear that they were on their own because they were survivors of domestic abuse.

offer workshops around topics such as financial empowerment, healthy relationships and parenting skills, but also things like finding volunteering opportunities and vocabulary skills. We also run health and wellbeing activities, like yoga and mindfulness classes, as well as support groups.

The final string to our bow is social activities. We’ve gone on trips to the seaside in Southend, put on a picnic in Hyde Park and organised visits to museums

So, a few people from the Somali community came together to discuss what the asylum seekers and refugees were going through and agreed to set up the ISC.

In the beginning, there was no office space, nothing. They used to come to the Town Hall and use the phone to make calls for clients. In 1992, we got a grant from the council and moved into a space at Manor Gardens.

What we do and how we respond

to issues comes from our clients. One thing that’s clear is that they really value the advocacy that we offer, so help with issues like accessing benefits; rights, in terms of child contact with an ex-partner; finance; housing – a number of support needs. They’re also looking for ways to improve their own circumstances, so we

and Freightliners City Farm. It’s a way of building confidence, and showing mums that there are low-cost activities available . We also do Eid, Diwali and Christmas parties. It’s social, but it also provides mums with a hot meal.

The funding from the council directly supports women who live in Islington. There’s a high population of Bengali women here and it’s helped us to tailor our offering for them. We’ve also become more focused on the family as a whole, as often women’s priorities are around their children. We’re really rooted here and it’s vital that we have a presence on the ground.

Yussuf Ahmed, co-ordinator of Islington Somali Community (ISC)

The ISC was set up in the 1990s, when a huge influx of Somali refugees came to this country. There were very few Somalis in the borough and people had all kinds of issues – with housing, education, immigration, health.

Since then, we’ve set up after school clubs, youth projects, crisis intervention. We also have staff who can help deal with the emotional impacts. The demand for these things is now higher than ever.

The council supported us from the start. Their funding is the base of everything – without it, we would have closed long ago. These are tough times, but everyone is trying their best to understand residents’ issues. Islington is exceptional in the way they care about residents: the need is greater than the council can meet alone, but the practical, moral and emotional support we and our clients get from them is invaluable.

Want to volunteer? Please get in contact with the organisations directly. You can call IBAA on 020 7697 4101; Maa Shanti on 020 7697 4310; and the ISC on 020 7272 0550. Or, check out Voluntary Action Islington at vai.org.uk or give them a ring on 020 7832 5801

Skinner, director of Maa Shanti

“Funding from the council directly supports women who live in Islington“

Let Islington entertain you

Islington is teeming with music and cultural venues, attracting a huge number of visitors to our restaurants and bars, providing thousands of jobs, and giving the local economy a huge boost. Smaller grassroots venues play a huge part in this. Planning a night out? Keep it local! We’ve rounded up just a few of our favourite local haunts to whet your appetite

King’s Head Theatre

Established in 1970, the King’s Head Theatre is one of the oldest pub theatres in London. For more than 50 years, it’s been housed in the back room of the King’s Head Pub on Upper Street. Famous for helping launch the careers of household names like Hugh Grant, Richard E Grant, Joanna Lumley and Victoria Wood, it’s now embarking on a new chapter, moving to a new venue at Islington Square with a 200seat theatre, 50-seat cabaret venue, bars, meeting spaces and offices. Find it just behind the King’s Head pub, opening early next year.

kingsheadtheatre.com

Angel Comedy

A jewel in the comedy circuit. Run by comedians, Angel Comedy is dedicated to affordable access. The club runs free shows seven nights a week, plus cheap shows from some of the biggest names in the UK. Comedians get to pilot their new material, you get a bargain night out. Everyone’s a winner.

angelcomedy.co.uk

Electrowerkz

Tucked behind Angel Tube station, Electrowerkz is one of

London’s longest-running alternative venues, putting on a varied mix of live music, DJ sets, art exhibitions, and special events. The venue has a unique atmosphere and prides itself on being diverse and inclusive.

electrowerkz.co.uk

The Alpaca

The Alpaca is an independent pub run by a team with a genuine love for food and drink, and a community-minded nature. Found on Essex Road, it’s established itself as a friendly neighbourhood venue, hosting music gigs and other events.

thealpaca.co.uk

The Lexington

A cosy, classic Victorian London pub serving a changing menu of cracking food – their current pop-up is vegan fast food purveyor Lucky Clucker. Come nightfall, head upstairs to The Lexington’s live music venue, which has played host to legends and lesser-known musicians of the indie scene, including Billy Bragg, Joan As Policewoman, The Pastels and Pere Ubu.

thelexington.co.uk

Slim Jim’s

Slim Jim’s is a self-described rock ‘n’ roll dive and live music bar on Upper Street. Come for

a rotating roster of live music (obviously), karaoke, rock-disco nights and perhaps a surprise or two – recently, real life band frontman Billie Joe Armstrong turned up and got on stage at a Green Day tribute gig!

slimjimsliquorstore.com

Islington Assembly Hall

From folk and dance to rock and soul, the Assembly Hall has hosted everyone from Eliza Doolittle to Foo Fighters. It first opened in 1930 and many of its art deco features have been kept, making it a unique (and local favourite) live music venue.

islingtonassemblyhall.co.uk

Homegrown talent: social worker Paris

Paris has been supporting children and families in Islington for the last six years. She tells us how she got into social work and why she loves working in Islington

People say that social work is rewarding and it is, but it’s so much more than that. Social workers can fill a void in people’s lives

I support children and young people who are in or leaving care. That includes things like work, training, education, and housing, but sometimes it’s the smaller things that bring the biggest rewards, like building successful relationships. I have the privilege of really getting to know people – to understand their challenges and work with them to overcome them.

Growing up, I didn’t always have the easiest life and I didn’t see any social workers who looked and sounded like me. I think regardless of where you come from, you can have a positive effect on people’s lives and it’s important that we have social workers from different backgrounds and walks of life.

I qualified as a social worker through the council. One of my placements was in the leaving care team and I knew right away that it was what I wanted to do. I haven’t looked back. I love it here. I have a supportive team, which is important in social work, as it can be challenging. There are so many cultures in the borough and a real sense of community. I often meet with clients in the park or a cafe, so I’ve really got to know Islington and all its hidden treasures.

Find local opportunities: islington.gov.uk/jobs-and-careers

Best parks for... a quiet escape

You’ve probably visited the beautiful spaces of Highbury Fields, Gillespie and Caledonian Parks, but what about the lesser-known green spaces? Here’s our pick of some of Islington’s best hidden gems for escaping the sights and sounds of the city

Duncan Terrace Garden

Recently given a Green Flag Award, Duncan Terrace Garden is a long strip of wooded greenery just off St John’s Street. But don’t let its proximity to Angel fool you – it’s a real oasis, with interesting plants and beautifully-designed bird boxes. It’s the perfect spot to relax and listen to the birds sing.

Canonbury Square

Another 2023 Green Flag Award-winner is the gorgeous Canonbury Square.

While you’re there, check out the Canonbury Tower. Built in the 16th century, it’s one of the oldest buildings in Islington and the former home of Francis Bacon and Thomas Cromwell, among others.

Sunnyside Gardens

Sunnyside Gardens are a haven

for the local community, who work hard every day of the week to keep them looking luscious. Opposite is Elthorne Peace Gardens, which provide a wonderful space to sit and reflect – just one reason why parks are so good for our mental health.

To find out more about Islington parks, visit:

islington.gov.uk/Parks

Nature watch: rosehips

You can spot rosehips, the bright red fruit of the rose plant, all over Islington, both in people’s gardens and in parks. As well as being beautifully colourful, they’re a good source of food for birds and are used across the world in medicine! Keep your eyes peeled for this natural wonder next time you go for a stroll around your area. You should be able to spot them from now until November.

Green street

Across Islington, streets are changing. By reducing traffic and creating more space for walking, cycling, and wheeling, the borough’s lowtraffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) are helping to create more welcoming streets. One example of that is the hustling, bustling Cross Street, which is part of the recently-made-permanent St Mary’s Church LTN. We caught up with two fantastic local businesses to find out more

Just off Upper Street, at 50 Cross Street, is Supply 91 – a swish, modern hairdresser, which opened in October 2021 with a strong commitment to the environment. “We’ve found that around 70 percent of our customers are from Islington, and that the vast majority of those walk, cycle, or get the Tube to us,” says co-founder Luke Davies.

“Since the introduction of the low-traffic neighbourhood, there’s been more of a buzz on Cross Street – it’s becoming more of a destination spot. With fewer cars going by, it’s definitely got a bit more inviting, especially on weekends, when people have a mooch around.” The changes across Islington have also helped Luke on his commute – he cycles down from Tufnell Park for a “relaxing” trip to work.

Supply 91’s commitment to tackling climate change has also seen them transform trims into trees, by donating 2,000 trees to Madagascar through climate action group Ecologi. “We’re trying to create a community in Islington, and part of that is offsetting our emissions and being sustainable.”

Just down the road from Supply 91, at 40 Cross Street, is Twentieth Century Posters, which is filled with unique, authentic posters dating from the 1890s through to the 1980s.

The founder, David Bownes, thinks the low-traffic neighbourhood has helped create a “friendly vibe” in the area. “I think it’s more of a pleasant area, and there’s much more that can still be done,” he says. “You look at places like Camden Passage and Exmouth Market, how lively they feel. Somewhere like Cross Street can be exactly like that as well –

you’ve got beautiful architecture, and it’s a lovely-looking street.”

The changes in St Mary’s Church, and across London, have meant David can get rid of his family car. “I sometimes take framed works to clients and the bus network round here is extraordinarily good, so it’s super quick to get to people,” he says. “We have some concerns about the environmental impact, but we also just don’t need it.”

Find out more about low traffic neighbourhoods: islington.gov. uk/people-friendly-streets

Health check: a healthy start for families

Local mum Fathima on how the Healthy Start fruit and vegetable voucher scheme has supported her to make healthy choices for her young family

Nutrition during the early years, including pre-birth, is a vital building block for a healthy and happy life. Eating well contributes to a healthy pregnancy for mothers and reduces the risks of health complications. A mother’s diet during pregnancy can also have long-term effects on her child’s overall health and wellbeing.

If you are more than ten weeks pregnant or have a child under

four years old, and you have low or no income, you can apply for a Healthy Start prepaid card from the NHS. The NHS Healthy Start scheme helps parents buy milk, infant formula, fresh, frozen, and tinned fruits and vegetables, and pulses. Parents are sent a prepaid card with weekly topups which can be used like a debit card at any shop that accepts Mastercard.

Currently, 1,700 people are signed up to the Healthy Start scheme in Islington, but there are almost 900 people who qualify and haven’t applied. Also, in Islington, all families with children under four years old, women trying

to conceive, pregnant women and new mums can pick up free vitamins from children’s centres and health centres across the borough, whether they are on a low income or not.

We spoke to Fathima, mum of two, about her experience with the scheme.

How easy was it to sign up?

I’ve been using Healthy Start for about six months now. I first applied for it when I was pregnant. It was pretty straightforward – I applied online for the card and when it came through, there was a letter with

clear instructions on how to activate it.

How has the Healthy Start scheme helped you?

I love the card because it allows me to buy fresh fruit and vegetables every few days, which means that I can manage my budget better and give my children nutritious meals.

I use it at Sainsbury’s, because they’ve got the Sainsbury’s Healthy Start top-up scheme. This gives me an extra £2 a week, on top of the £8.50 I get from the NHS.

What would your advice be to other parents?

All eligible parents should apply for Healthy Start, because you can use this card to make sure that your kids are given healthy food. The Healthy Start card will help you to stop worrying about the cost of it.

Islington families can also pick up free vitamins. Do you make use of those, too?

I didn’t know about the free

vitamins until a month after my youngest was born. I found out about it in one of my parent champion meetings and then was reminded by my midwife after I had my baby, when she did a home visit with the red book. She already had my vitamins card registered, which was amazing. In the past, I bought vitamins for my eldest son and they were very expensive. It’s great to know that they’re free now for my youngest until he’s four.

Vitamins can be expensive, especially with the current economic climate. Inflation has made it quite difficult for parents to think about anything extra, as some families are only managing to do the essential, like putting food on the table and paying their bills. Some may see the vitamins as a luxury, so for it to be offered free for the kids and mothers is a really nice contribution to a healthy lifestyle.

Apply for Healthy Start: healthystart.nhs.uk

Find out about free vitamins: islington.gov.uk/BrightStart

3 ways to… keep active on a budget

1 Table tennis

There are eight parks in Islington with free outdoor table tennis tables: Arundel Square, Cornwallis Park, Highbury Fields, Paradise Park, Rosemary Gardens, Tufnell Park Playing Fields, Whittington Park and Wray Crescent. No need to book, but bring bats and balls.

2 Outdoor gyms

Try working out for free at an outdoor gym. You can find them in Arundel Square, Elthorne Park, Laycock Green, Paradise Park, Rosemary Gardens, St Paul’s South, Spa Fields, Tufnell Park Playing Fields and Whittington Park.

3 Home workouts

Doing a home workout can be an easy way to fit physical activity into your daily routine. Need some inspiration? There are loads of free videos online from Sport England or the NHS Fitness Studio to guide you through sessions of boxing, dance, yoga, and more.

Find an activity: islington. gov.uk/SportsActivityForAll

Home improvement: saving energy

Latest developments

Each issue, we shine a light on new homes being built in the borough. This time: 100 more homes for people in need

One hundred homes will be offered to young adults leaving care, people sleeping rough, and families who have had to flee Afghanistan and Ukraine. All these homes are ex-council houses that will be bought back by Islington Council.

The homes include 20 onebedroom homes for young adults leaving the council’s care; 20 one-bedroom homes for people sleeping rough; and 60 two, three and four-bedroom homes for families who have had to leave Afghanistan and Ukraine.

Homes will be purchased throughout the year and should be complete by the end of March

How the council is making homes cheaper to run – and how you can do the same

What Islington Council is doing

Over the last year the council has installed new double-glazed windows, plus wall and roof insulation in some of the oldest street-facing council homes in the borough. The new windows replaced the old single glazing that had reached the end of its life. These improvements will mean warmer homes and cheaper bills for residents.

The council has already started working on improvements to nearly 400 more homes.

What you can do

There are lots of easy ways to

save energy at home: turn your thermostat down by just 1°C – for most people, between 18 and 21°C is just right. Draughtproof your home – block up gaps around windows and doors – and fit radiator panels. These changes can save you up to three percent on your annual heating bill.

Before making any alterations, check out the council’s easyto-read guide on planning permission for energy-saving measures. Search ‘Islington Permitted Development Guide for Net Zero Works’ online.

For more energy-saving advice, visit: togethergreener. islington.gov.uk, call 080 0953 1221 or text 078 0000 6143

next year. The scheme is part of the council’s committment to make sure everyone in Islington has a safe and decent place to call home.

To find out more about housing developments, visit: islington. gov.uk/HousingDevelopment

Creating communities: a space for young people

When developers build in Islington, the council charges them money to pay for projects that matter to people in the local community. In 2021, Prospex received money to set up a new tech hub at their youth centre in Piper Close. We find out more

Prospex is a youth work charity that aims to increase and improve the opportunities and experiences of at-risk young people in Islington. With the money they received from the council, they were able to “fully kit out a studio with iMacs, iPads, podcasting equipment, cameras, microphones, music and editing software, MIDI keyboards, DJ decks and mixers, and all the necessary interfaces,” says CEO Richard ‘Beef’ Frankland. “We were also able to line the walls with acoustic tiles. It looks and sounds amazing.”

Young people can come to Prospex to learn how to create music, podcasts, film and photography, animation, and digital art. Since the tech hub opened, it has been in constant use and, so far, they have had 105 individual young people using the space. “There has been some incredible music produced and we

are looking to release an album later in the year,” Beef continues. “Having access to good quality tech equipment is really important. It encourages creativity and expression, builds self-confidence, creates opportunities for collaboration, is an outlet for stress and mental health, and helps with career exploration.”

Beef sees podcasting, one of the centre’s popular activities, as a great way for young people to have their voices heard. “Young people often feel they are not given the chance to have their

say on important issues, so this gives them a platform to do that,” he explains. One group of girls recently completed a series on women in work, interviewing women who run their own businesses. “It proved inspiring for all who took part,” Beef continues. “It’s well worth a listen.”

Prospex is also set to receive more funding to refurbish the kitchen at the youth centre. “We are very excited about this. At all our sessions, we provide a free, hot, and nutritious meal for the young people who attend,” Beef explains. “The kitchen upgrade

will help us to do this more efficiently and with less waste.”

The space is also used to teach young people how to cook and budget for meals, “so it is exceptionally well used,” he says. The refurbishment will include a commercial fridge and freezer, a stainless-steel central island, three commercial induction hobs and one that is for a large wok. “It will benefit every young person who accesses our centre.”

Find out more: prospex.org.uk

Community champions: Yvonne Codner of Word 4 Weapons

Word 4 Weapons is a charity that’s helping take knives off streets in cities through education and practical solutions like installing knife bins, in which people can safely and anonymously dispose of weapons. We talk to the director of education and partnerships, Yvonne Codner, to find out more

Tell us a bit about yourself. How did you come to work at Word 4 Weapons?

I joined Word 4 Weapons in 2016 as a trustee, because it is a cause that is dear to my heart.

I started out helping with finance, but my role soon evolved. It’s a small charity, so now I do a bit of everything. I make enquiries about installing new knife bins, visit potential sites and speak with the police. I’ve even advised someone on how to get rid of their grandpa’s collection of swords!

What is Word 4 Weapons?

Word 4 Weapons is a leading UK charity that places knife bins in a number of UK towns and cities, including Islington. Tens of thousands of knives, guns

and other weapons have been voluntarily surrendered into our knife bins. We also offer a range of education services, including training for youth workers, awareness sessions and a range of useful resources for schools and young people.

How did Word 4 Weapons come about?

The charity was founded in 2007 by Michael Smith, a retired police officer. He saw a problem – that there was nowhere for people to safely dispose of knives, without prosecution – and was able to

get the backing of the police to install amnesty bins.

Why are knife bins important?

Knife bins don’t just provide a safe way to dispose of knives, they also show the community that there are people trying to prevent knife crime. They help to raise awareness and it stops knives from ending up in places where kids may encounter them, like parks or gardens.

How should people use the knife bins?

There are six knife bins in Islington. Residents can wrap their knives carefully in cardboard and dispose of them in the following locations: Central Street, outside Finsbury Leisure Centre; Stanmore Street, outside Cally Pool and Gym; Highbury Crescent, outside Highbury Leisure Centre; Hornsey Road, outside Sobell Leisure Centre; Hornsey Road, by the bridge near to the Emirates Stadium; and St John’s Way in Archway, close to Caxton House Community Centre.

What is Word 4 Weapons’ proudest moment?

We have many, but we are really proud any time we feel that we have potentially saved someone’s life. We also love it when a community supports our knife bins.

What are your hopes for the future?

I hope we can provide education for young people and persuade them to not carry weapons. I hope we can show them an alternative future.

Top tips: keeping safe on Bonfire Night

To find out more about Word 4 Weapons, visit: word4weapons. co.uk or call on 074 5274 3443

Buy your fireworks from a licensed shop. Check they have a CE safety mark, to be sure.

Light fireworks at arm’s length and never return to them once alight. Make sure you follow the instructions on the packet, too.

Keep a bucket of water close by. Use it to put your bonfire out and dispose of sparklers.

Be mindful of people or pets who may be scared of fireworks. Keep any nervous pets indoors.

Don’t drink alcohol if you’re using fireworks.

Keep an eye on any children. Don’t let anyone under 18 use fireworks.

Do not throw, or set off, fireworks in any public space. This includes sparklers.

Build your bonfire clear of buildings, sheds and fences and do not leave it unattended. An adult should be around to supervise until it’s fully burnt out. And don’t use petrol or paraffin to light it!

Respect your neighbours – fireworks should not be used after 11pm. There are a few exceptions, which are: Bonfire Night, when the cut-off is midnight, and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cutoff is 1am. Visit

Spotlight on... West Library youth employment hub

Our team will support anyone, even if you’re already working or in college. Part of my role links with City and Islington College. If you are worried about getting chucked off your course, for example, we can support you to avoid that.

We help young people from the beginning till the very end. If someone decided to do an apprenticeship, for example, we can show them where to look, help them write a good application, and give them lots of different ideas. If they do get an interview, we can support them with prep, then if they don’t get the place we’ll encourage them to get feedback, so they’ll know what to do for next time.

Can you give an example of a success story?

Progression adviser Maureen Lake on helping young people find the right career path

What does your role involve?

I am a careers adviser for young people: mainly those who are not in education, employment or training. I talk them through the main options after their GCSEs, so college, apprenticeships or employment.

The hub is just one of my bases: I also work in schools, youth centres and at 222 Upper

Street. We’re spread across the borough, so that young people can access us at lots of different places.

What is the youth employment hub, in a nutshell?

It’s a space where young people can feel comfortable. They have access to computers, to make applications, or to our team if they want to speak to us. We have group sessions or we can do one-to-ones with people.

What services does it offer?

When Chiara left school last year, she wasn’t given any careers guidance. She started a course at City and Islington doing health and social care but unfortunately, she ended up dropping out. She came to see me for some advice, and she’s now passed her entry level maths and English with the help of our tutors. She said it’s the first time she’s ever felt proud of herself.

Chiara told me that she likes that we listen to her and what she wants, rather than telling her what to do. We don’t force it: when they’re ready, we’re ready to help.

To find out more about what’s happening at the hub, email: youthemploymentteam@ islington.gov.uk

Family matters: fostering Shooting stars

In each issue, we spotlight a young person in Islington who has excelled themselves or is making a positive contribution to their community. This time: Samira Ahmed, social media and community executive Through LIFT (Leading Inclusive Futures through Technology), I completed a paid internship where I learnt video production. I was mentored and trained throughout. I’m deaf, and I received support that helped me to overcome any barriers. LIFT job fairs were also great, helping me to network and discover opportunities.

Sue Jeakins has been a foster carer in Islington for 13 years, caring for more than six children and specialising in teenagers. Sue tells us how a network of local foster families is making a difference

I’m a trained counsellor and worked in a school for 15 years. I’d always been interested in fostering and became more so after doing a training course. My colleague was a foster carer and she encouraged me, eventually becoming my mentor.

Being a foster carer is the most pleasurable and worthwhile job I’ve ever done, but it can also be difficult. You must be passionate about fostering. I love children and I started fostering when I realised what a big difference a supportive, consistent adult can make to a child’s life. Now everyone calls me nanny Sue!

They say it takes a village to raise a child – that’s especially true for fostering. It’s a 24/7 job and can feel lonely. Circles of Support is a council scheme where a central carer (in this case, me) provides support, planned and emergency care, and regular social activities for foster families. Birth children and relatives are included too, so it creates a type of extended family, which everyone benefits from.

We’ve been going to Circles of Support for a few months now and I can already see the difference it’s making. It’s nice to be able to talk to people who understand you and it’s been great getting to know everyone. The children connect easily, as they don’t have to explain themselves to each other. Circles of Support is a fantastic way to look after foster carers. When carers are happy, children are happy.

All Islington foster carers receive financial and practical support and the latest, high-quality training. To find out more, visit: fostering.islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 7933 or 0800 073 0428

Following the internship, I was pleased to be offered a position creating content and doing community outreach. I wouldn’t be where I am without LIFT!

To find out more about careers in digital technology, check out Local Insiders: Digital Jobs – a series of short videos produced in partnership with LIFT and Good Growth Hub, featuring Samira: liftfutures.london/ our-work/digital-jobs

Art in the park

Gillespie Park entrances get a makeover: two of Gillespie Park nature reserve’s entrances got a makeover this summer, thanks to artist Nicki Deux and a band of local volunteers. Over the course of a few days, more than 40 people of all ages turned up to help scrub walls, cut out stencils, draw and paint to achieve a beautiful community mural.

The council is currently working on a new public art programme to brighten Islington’s streets. Follow IslingtonLife on social media @IslingtonLife for updates!

Remembering Ben Kinsella

they were ever in a crisis, if they pulled a knife out it would offer them the ultimate protection. Some people also think there are safe places to stab somebody –that you can have an injury that’s not life-threatening. But even the smallest of cuts can affect your life chances. We provide a really strong counter to these myths, working through all the facts.

Carrying a knife is carrying misery, heartache and endless pain and suffering, for the victim and offender. Helping young people to understand this has a strong effect on them, because they’re now associating the knife with that pain and suffering. For most young people, that’s a game-changer. It has a massive influence on their behaviour and attitude to certain situations. The result is that they make better and safer decisions.

This year marked 15 years since the tragic murder of Ben Kinsella. To remember him –and to prevent other young people falling victim to knife crime – the Ben Kinsella Trust set up a permanent exhibition, now housed at Finsbury Library. CEO Patrick Green tells us more

The exhibition first came about in 2012 and we’ve been at Finsbury Library since 2015. It helps young people understand knife crime in a sensitive and real way. The family set it up in Ben’s name, to try to do whatever they could to stop what happened to them happening to another family.

We spoke to a lot of young people at the time about how they’d like to be educated about knife crime and they made it clear that it should be part of the school curriculum. But they also didn’t want someone to simply tell them what to do – they wanted an authentic experience.

The result is a series of interconnected rooms which help people understand the impact of knife crime on the victim, their family and community, but also that of the offender. You learn while you walk, at your own pace.

We tell Ben’s story, but also other’s stories as well. We use immersive theatre, video – a real mix of experiences. We have a graphic novel room, which helps people understand how peer pressure can play a part in steering you to making poor decisions. We deal with social media, too, and how that is possibly influencing your thinking around knife crime.

We also tackle a lot of the myths around knife crime, some of which have existed for decades. The biggest myth is that carrying a knife will protect you, when we know that’s not true. It’s clear when young people arrive with us that some of them feel that if

Every child who visits completes a before-and-after survey and we take verbal feedback. We’re constantly monitoring what young people are saying and adapting the exhibition accordingly. For the 15th anniversary, we’re rolling out a youth ambassadors programme to work alongside the Trust and continue getting that youth voice out there, building on the work of No More Red with Arsenal, Adidas and Islington Council.

Young people are the best influencers we have. If you nurture their talents and skills they can go on to do great things. Showing young people that we recognise that is a really powerful statement.

The exhibition is open and free to all Islington schools and youth groups. To book, visit: benkinsella.org.uk/Contact

Top tips: budgeting for Christmas

Taking the financial stress out of the festive season

With the weather cooling and evenings getting darker, lots of us are starting to think about the festive season. For many, Christmas is something to look forward to, but for others the expense of gifts and food and the expectations of the season can put more pressure on already squeezed household budgets and make it a really stressful time. To take some of the financial stress out of Christmas, we’ve rounded up some top tips

Set a budget

Work out what you can afford first, so you don’t overspend. To begin your budget, make a list of family and friends you will be buying presents for and allocate an amount for each person. Think about your food shopping, too. Make sure you stick to your shopping list.

Talk to friends and family about a spending limit

Pressure to please loved ones and give children the perfect Christmas is one of the top reasons people overspend during the festive season. When you’ve worked out your budget for presents, talk to the people you plan to give gifts to and agree a spending limit.

Do your Christmas shopping early

Some people like to do their Christmas shopping gradually over the course of the year, starting with the post-Christmas sales. But it’s not too late to start now, so keep your eyes peeled and if you see any bargains, snap them up and store them away for the big day.

Share the cost of festive food

You don’t need to splash out on a festive feast – perhaps think about a different version of Christmas lunch this year, like a buffet where everyone brings a plate. That way, you can spread the cost and share the workload, as well!

Get creative with gift giving

You don’t have to spend lots of money to give someone a present – pass on a good book, bake a cake, or give up your time to help out with a task that needs doing around the house.

Get financial help if you need it

The council’s friendly team of advisors can help you work out what financial support you’re entitled to and help you to make a claim. They can also advise on

ways to make your money go further and put you in touch with other local services that may be able to help.

For advice and financial support, visit: islington.gov.uk/CostOfLiving, call the council’s friendly team of advisors on 020 7527 8222 or email them at:

heretohelp@islington.gov.uk

You can also find out if there are any grants you are eligible for, that you do not have to pay back, online. Visit: grantssearch.turn2us.org.uk

If you are in work, rent your home and are struggling to make ends meet, you may be eligible for a one-off £250 cash grant from Islington Council. To find out more and apply, visit: islington.gov.uk/Help250