IslingtonLife summer 2022

Your local magazine from Islington Council • Summer 2022

Our sizzling summer special

Parents’ essential guide to summer

Making the most of Islington parks

Help with the cost of living

IslingtonLife

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20-21

Welcome Message from the Leader of the council

Health Looking after your mental health and tips to keep cool

Decent homes Energy efficient homes and greening the borough

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News and events School Streets, Whitecross Street Party and bike marking

Jobs and money Get help with childcare and the cost of living crisis

Community safety Support for Ukraine and online safety advice

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Essential summer guide Our eight page, pull-out summer special

Cleaner, greener, healthier How to make the most of Islington parks this summer

Local life Football sessions on estates and community carers

Highlights from the summer guide 3

Parent support

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Days in the sun

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Things to do

Summer 2022

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Welcome

Welcome to the summer edition of IslingtonLife! Inside, you’ll find news about the exciting events going on in Islington over the next few months, including activities for kids and street parties, as well as the support on offer to help with the rising cost of living.

Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz Leader of the council View this and previous issues online at issuu.com/IslingtonLifeMag Be the first to hear about the latest news.

Visit islingtonlife.london Follow us on Twitter @IslingtonLife and @IslingtonBC for council news You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram. Search for IslingtonLife

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

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

Summer is a time of (hopefully) sun, play and fun, and inside you will see our parents’ essential summer guide. It is a vital addition to any parent’s summer holiday, with back to school tips, support for young people, advice for finding jobs and things to do. I know I will be using it throughout the summer.

But we know that the summer can also be an expensive time.

With kids off school, it can cost a lot for families, especially with rising bills and prices at the moment. I’m proud that the council will again be providing free activities this summer, with free lunch available for families eligible for income-related free school meals. On page 2 of the summer guide and page 17 of the magazine, you can get vital information on saving money, including how to register for free school meals and how to apply for a school uniform grant, as well as help with council tax and energy bills.

relaxing and more. Check out our guide on page 18. Our parks and green space are a vital part of making Islington a cleaner, greener borough and they are there for us all to enjoy.

When kids go back to school in September, we all want to make sure they are safe and healthy when they arrive and when they leave. That’s why our School Streets programme, closing roads outside the school gate at drop-off and pick-up time, is so popular. On page 5, you can see how we have made five more of these permanent. We now have 35 School Streets, covering 36 schools.

I hope you all have a wonderful summer, enjoying everything our borough has to offer.

One of the best things we can all do during the summer is enjoy Islington’s wonderful parks and green spaces. They can be used for exercise, children’s play, for

To receive news and updates directly to your inbox visit islington.gov.uk/StayUpdated islingtonlife.london

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IslingtonLife

News and events

Whitecross Street Party

The annual street party is back!

The event includes a showcase of street artists, who will be painting live, eco-art workshops, music and words stages, market stalls and much more – and is free to all. Come along to Whitecross Street, EC1Y, on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 July, 12noon–6pm and join the fun.

Celebrating The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Almost 100 events took place in Islington in June for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. From street parties to picnics – and even a women’s football tournament – community groups did themselves proud by bringing people together to celebrate.

Islington Local History Centre is collecting an archive of photos so we can all look back on the occasion for s to come.

If you would like submit a photograph for the archive, send it to local.history@islington.gov.uk but please ensure you have permission from everyone in the picture, as the archive may be exhibited in future.

wxstreetparty.co.uk

Free bike marking

Marking and registering your bike with a bike ID may help the police recover it if it is stolen.

The council and the local police regularly run free bike marking events, where you can get your bike marked and registered and get bike safety advice. The next events are on 19 July outside Essex Road station, 9.30am– 12.30pm, and Tuesday 16 August outside Highbury and Islington station, 1.30–4.30pm. Just turn up with your bike. islington.gov.uk/roads/cycling

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News and events Supporting Blackowned businesses

For many people from minority backgrounds, opportunities aren’t always within reach.

There isn’t one simple solution to this issue – which is why Islington Council is asking local Black business owners to share their views on how we can make sure everyone has a shot at reaching their potential.

Take part in the survey to have your say and to register your business on the Black Pound Day business directory.

Five more permanent School Streets Following public consultation and monitoring, Islington Council will be making five more School Street trials permanent.

The School Streets programme is part of the council’s wider efforts to clean up Islington’s air. Temporarily closing roads at pick-up and drop-off times outside schools to traffic makes it safer for children walking, cycling and scooting to and from school, while reducing congestion and improving air quality.

The five schemes are outside Grafton Primary School; Hungerford Primary School and The Bridge Primary Schools; St John’s Upper Holloway Primary School; St Paul’s Steiner Primary School and William Tyndale Primary School. Islington now has 35 School Streets, covering 36 schools.

For more information and to take part, visit islington.gov.uk/ BlackPoundDaySurvey or scan the QR code.

Islington Support Payment Scheme

Islington Council has launched the Islington Support Payment Scheme, for people who experienced abuse while placed by the council in its children’s homes between 1966 and 1995.

People affected by abuse can apply now online at islingtonsupportpayment.co.uk for a support payment of £10,000.

Payments will be made through a process that is as straightforward and quick to access as possible, and that tries to minimise the need to re-live past trauma or the risk of further trauma or harm.

For help, go to islingtonsupportpayment.co.uk or email supportpayment @islington.gov.uk islingtonlife.london

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News and events

Local people receive honours Two care and community champions have been recognised in the Queen’s Jubilee Birthday Honours for their work in social care and within the community during the pandemic.

Tina Jegede, nurse lead for care home quality at Islington Council and joint director of race, equality, Diversity and Inclusion at

Whittington Health NHS Trust, will be awarded an MBE for her services for social care in Islington. Tina said: “I am thrilled to receive this honour. This is an acknowledgement of the hard work of every nurse and care worker in Islington; it is always a team effort.”

Oliur Rahman, a volunteer Covid health champion, has been recognised for his contribution

Have you seen the new Find Your Islington directory?

The directory brings together a range of services and support from Islington Council and partners into one place. So if you need help finding childcare, health and wellbeing support, local community groups, things to do, and more, visit findyour.islington.gov.uk

to the Islington community during Covid-19, and will be awarded a British Empire Medal.

He has been working to help Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, which have been disproportionately affected by the virus, get the vaccine.

Oliur said: “I am so very humbled and honoured to be receiving this award... As long as I have breath, I will continue to work and support the community I live in and serve. Thank you so much."

2022

Here comes the sun

Your essential guide to summer in Islington: from things to do for kids of all ages, to staying safe online and getting ready for the new school year p2

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Key dates and things to think about ahead of the new school term

Elyse Duncan-Brown shares what she's looking forward to this summer

Islington parent Laetitia shares her experience of Solihull courses for parents

Find out what’s on for families with children of all ages during the summer holiday

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Find out about Islington Youth Council and how your child can get involved

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IslingtonLife

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Back to school: key dates and things to think about ahead of the new term Apply for a school place

If your child is due to join a primary or secondary school in September 2023, you will soon need to apply for a place. If they were born between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2019, you will need to apply for primary school reception. If they were born between 1 September 2011 and 31 August 2012, you will need to secure a secondary school place.

Applications open on 1 September 2022 and if you live in Islington, you will need to apply online through the e-admissions portal. A copy of the primary and secondary school admissions brochures explaining what to do, when and how will be available at islington.gov.uk/admissions towards the end of July.

If you need support, the council’s friendly school admissions team can guide you through the process. Call on 020 7527 5515 or email admissions@islington.gov.uk To sign up to receive bulletins packed with advice and tips to help choose your school and all the key dates and deadlines, visit the council website: islington.gov.uk/ StayUpdated

Register for free school meals

Did you know that Islington Council is one of only a few local authorities in London to offer free school meals for all nursery and primary age pupils in local schools? Free school meals are available to some secondary school pupils in receipt of certain benefits, too. As well as providing a nutritious meal for children, free school meals help families out with the cost of living, saving more than £400 per year per child.

Register for free school meals: islington.gov.uk/ FreeSchoolMeals

Apply for a uniform grant

If your child is an Islington resident and is eligible for free school meals, they’re entitled to a uniform grant as well. The council will pay £150 to help meet the cost of school uniforms when your child transfers to secondary school from Year 6.

Applying for a uniform grant is quick and easy, just visit the council website and fill out the online form: islington.gov.uk/ FreeSchoolMeals For help or more information, email the free school meals team on freeschoolmeal@ islington.gov.uk

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Parenting support

Solihull online courses for parents were developed by health visitors, psychotherapists and other NHS professionals to support parents in building positive relationships with their children. The courses are free for Islington parents and carers. Islington parent Laetitia, who has three children aged 14, 15 and five, regularly takes Solihull courses. She tells IslingtonLife how it has helped her to better understand and support her children How has it helped you to support and understand your children better?

This course can help you understand why your child is behaving in a certain way and the mysteries of children’s development. For example, at the moment my child – who has additional needs – is struggling to regulate his emotions and behaviour, so I have decided to go back to basics and go online to check what I can do to support him.

I also remember this video about how teenagers’ brains work. It was fascinating – and explains a lot! I would definitely recommend it to other parents.

What are the Solihull online parenting courses all about?

The courses are about understanding how your child develops – their emotions, and your own – and how you can support them. It’s important, but often something we don’t pay attention to.

What made you sign up?

Parenting is extremely rewarding but also very challenging, especially when you have children with additional needs. This course was convenient and very accessible. You don’t have

to travel to a venue to learn about it and you can do it in the comfort of your home at your own pace. I have done more complex and lengthier courses, but I think this one is really good as it is in plain English. There’s no off-putting jargon.

What did you like most about the courses?

Being able to do it whenever you can and having the ability to focus on the section you are interested in. You don’t have to do everything. It is very flexible; you pick what you want to learn about.

Islington parents and carers can access courses for free until 31 October 2022. Go to the inourplace.co.uk website, click on ‘Start now: Buy courses or apply code’, enter the access code ‘Bright Start’, enter your information and postcode – then start your course!

If you’re concerned about a child or young person’s mental wellbeing, Kooth offers free, safe, and anonymous online wellbeing support and counselling. Your child can also join a discussion board on a topic of their interest or write in Kooth’s online, personalised daily journal to track their feelings and reflect on how they’re doing. To join, visit kooth.com islingtonlife.london

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Youth power

Raj Jalota, children and young people’s participation officer at Islington Council, talks about the role of the Islington Youth Council – and how your child can get involved views about young people; gain good skills and experience that will enhance your CV and college applications – and, importantly, give you a sense of pride that you have influenced positive changes in Islington.

Your child can apply to stand as a candidate in the youth council election in September.

Voting will take place in November.

Youth councillors are responsible for making sure the opinions of young people in Islington are heard, campaigning for their needs and interests. They work with council officers and councillors to ensure young people have a key role in planning, designing, delivering and

reviewing services.

Being on the youth council is a fantastic opportunity to do so many things: influence how money is spent on services for young people; act as a voice for young people to make sure their ideas and concerns are heard; help to change society’s

Recently we have also been busy making a short film to update young people about our main priorities and encourage them to stand as candidates and to vote in the election. The film will be available soon on izzy-info.com – stay tuned!

If you want to involve the youth council in a project, contact youthcouncil@ islington.gov.uk. Keep up to date on their work on Twitter and Instagram @IslingtonYC

Meet the youth council Islington youth councillors on why they chose to run for council and the causes that matter to them “I want to make a difference and promote a sense of community among young people” – Kacper Strek “I campaign about child

poverty because it affects hundreds of young children in Islington” – Keji Ayanda “I campaign about body image because I believe we should live in an allinclusive borough and we should make sure that no one gets criticised, judged or discriminated against

because of how they look” – Rosie Kurnaz “I campaign on mental health because I believe that young people should know the services that can help them and have advice at hand, so that they can look after their mental health” – Melissa Williamson

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Days in the sun Elyse Duncan-Brown, who is 17 years old, is a regular at Lift youth club and took part in lots of activities put on by Islington Council last summer, as part of Summerversity. She tells us what she got out of the experience and what she’s looking forward to this year What are summer holidays usually like for you?

The last couple of years have been hard, everything has been really different due to Covid. We didn’t have a prom, we didn’t get a farewell and we got predicted grades. Last year’s holidays didn’t feel so special because we had just had so much time off.

Having Summerversity was so refreshing. It gave us something to do as we were getting out and meeting friends again.

Which Summerversity activities did you do last year?

I went to the multi-sports camp in Finsbury Park. There were different stations you rotate round, with tag archery, volleyball, handball, football and basketball. It was nice to work with different people and have a variety of sports to try.

I also did an introduction to catering at Lift with the lovely Sharon Clarke. She showed us different cookery and baking skills. It was such a surprise to have an outdoor kitchen, we were amazed. It is a different cooking environment and having support from staff made it even better. It was lovely to cook for other young people, and we got the chance to try a broad range of healthy stuff that not everyone was familiar with. For many it was their main meal of the day.

It was so nice, with everyone coming together to eat.

It made it feel really family-like.

I also did trainer design with Franklin Boateng who worked for Adidas and is the official King of Trainers. He made it so inspiring and gave me a broad knowledge of the business. It really made young people aim for more and try harder to achieve the things they want in life.

What do you like most about Summerversity?

I like how it is available to everyone and it’s free, so that everyone can get the same opportunities and learn new skills. I like how we were pushed, but not in a way we felt uncomfortable, we were just made to feel we could explore new things. Sometimes I think the staff see stuff in us that we don’t see in ourselves.

This year I am going to sign up for swimming lessons, as I haven’t been to a pool since Covid and am pretty sure I have forgotten the basics! Then I’ll head to the Islington Boat Club, as I didn’t get to finish

my lessons there at school due the pandemic. I will be helping with Street Start Safety, trying to create safer spaces for young people. I think it is very important to have opportunities to meet new people and enjoy yourself in a safe environment.

What would you say to a young person who has never taken part before?

You are missing out on a lot.

The staff are supportive. Go to a youth hub, check out the website, spread the word and get booking!

Find out more and book: summerversity.co.uk islingtonlife.london

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Things to do Picnics in the park

Join Family Kitchen for a summer picnic in a park near you! Bring your children along and prepare a meal together.

After that, it’s off to the local park to play games and have fun, finishing off with a picnic.

You’ll learn new activities that you can do again with your children to help them lead a more active life – and have fun in the process. All food and activities will be provided.

Family Kitchen summer picnics will take place in different places across the borough.

For more information and to find out about your nearest Family Kitchen summer picnic, go to islington.gov.uk/ FamiliesForLife

Free swimming lessons

Throughout the summer holidays, Islington Council and Better leisure centres are once again offering free swimming lessons! This year, the programme has been

extended to include more weeks and an additional 1,000 places. Lessons are on offer for under-threes accompanied by an adult, children aged four to 16, families, and people over 60.

Check the timetable and book your lessons at better.org.uk/ free-swimming-lessons

Lunch Bunch

Islington Council is offering young people a whole range of free activities over the summer holidays such as sports, arts, crafts, cooking, film, theatre, coding and bike maintenance. A meal will be provided at each activity.

If you are an Islington resident and have children in reception to Year 11 and are either in receipt of benefit-related free school meals or have an education health care plan, you are eligible and should have received a letter from Islington Council giving you a unique booking code. If you are an Islington resident and have a social or family support worker, please ask them to refer you.

For eligible Islington residents in any of the above categories but attending school out of the borough, contact the Family Information Service on 020 7527 5959 or email them at fis@islington.gov.uk To find out what’s on and how to book using your unique booking code, visit the HAF page on the council website: islington.gov.uk/HAF

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The full programme of activities is available at islington.gov.uk/brightstart or contact Islington’s Family Information Service on 020 7527 5959 or email fis@islington.gov.uk

Summer reading challenge

The annual summer reading challenge is back in libraries across Islington. This year's theme, ‘Gadgeteers’, is designed to spark children's curiosity about the world around them. With resources and activities from the Science Museum, the challenge focuses on inspiring children to see the science and innovation behind everyday objects, showing that reading and science are for everyone.

Bright Start, happy summer!

If you’re looking for something to do for under-fives this summer, Bright Start is welcoming families to free activities in children’s centres and green spaces across Islington, including family yoga and urban forest school sessions. With a focus on movement and physical activity, experienced and friendly Bright Start staff will be on hand to offer play ideas to explore with your children.

Older siblings (up to eight years) are also welcome to attend outdoor activities and there will also be some intergenerational events, in which the whole family can take part – a great way for families and young children to meet, make new friends and learn while they play.

Read six books over the summer and win prizes.

Complete the challenge to receive a certificate and medal.

If you have a child under five, you can sign them up to the mini reading challenge for preschool children. Pop into your local library and sign up from Saturday 9 July – it’s free!

Summerversity

Summerversity is back and larger than ever, with more than 100 courses to help children and young people enjoy their summer, learn new skills and make new friends: from sports, arts and cooking to music, tech and media.

Launchpad, a branch of Summerversity for young people aged 16 and up, will help teenagers safely socialise with others and gain skills and experiences that will boost their

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CV and guide them towards employment, training or further education.

Most courses are suitable for complete beginners, and all venues are accessible. A free lunch will be available with many of the courses. All activities are free for young people aged 13-plus who live or go to school in Islington.

Visit the Summerversity website for full details and booking information: summerversity.co.uk If you need help booking, drop into a youth hub.

Childcare support

Islington’s Family Information Service (FIS) can help you find childcare and low cost or free activities during the holidays and after school.

This summer there are holiday playschemes in community venues and schools, as well as adventure playground sessions on sites across Islington. Many childminders are also available for childcare throughout the school summer holiday.

The FIS can help with information, advice and support on services for families with children from birth up to 25 years, including finding and paying for childcare, stay and play sessions, free early learning for under-fives, family support services and services for children with disabilities and special educational needs.

Call FIS on 020 7527 5959 (Monday to Friday, 9am– 4pm), email fis@islington. gov.uk or visit the website: islington.gov.uk/fis

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IslingtonLife

Strides of progress Joyce Johnson of the council’s progress team talks about her role in helping students make decisions about their next steps on results day – and how there’s always a backup option when things don’t go to plan

Top tips for job hunters:

Tailor your CV – adapt it to the job you’re applying for.

Use bullet points to keep your CV concise.

Use a wide range of job search methods including search engines, company websites, recruitment agencies and newspapers. Don’t be afraid to just approach companies too!

Read job adverts carefully before you apply. Job descriptions and person specifications provide key information about the kind of person they're looking for.

The progress team provides support for 16-to-18-yearolds in Islington around education, work experience, traineeships, apprenticeships or employment up to the end of Year 13. We help them make informed choices, all starting with their interests and aspirations. Advisers can also assist with things such as college or job applications, CV writing and mock interviews, particularly for people who are not currently in education, employment or training – or those at risk of being in that situation.

Many of the young people I support come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

They might have missed out on

taking their GCSEs or meeting the entry requirements for their desired courses. However, there is always something that can be done to help them fulfil their potential and we can guide them in finding that starting point. If you don’t achieve your predicted grades, it’s only natural to feel disappointed, but we can help to either find a backup option, or the next best opportunity available to them.

A-level results day is Thursday 18 August and GCSE results day is Thursday 25 August. Check your school’s website to find out how results will be issued. The progress team will be available for support on both days: email them at progress@islington. gov.uk or call 020 7527 7031

Use the STAR model. Think of scenarios to back up the things you say about yourself on your application and in the interview – break it down into Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and be honest, then find ways to improve them.

Get some work experience to build your skills. Try to find and do taster days and mentoring sessions in areas of interest.

Research! Find out more about the organisations and businesses you’re applying to.

Hone your skills. Find free online training at youthemployment.org.uk Ask for support. Be it from a friend, family member or the council. Contact Sonia.

Hartup@islington.gov.uk for help with your job search.

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Health

In conversation with…

Luana Baptista Luana, a link worker at Age UK Islington, explains how green social prescribing is helping Islington residents get well and stay well

How does social prescribing work and what is your role?

If someone mentions to their GP that there are issues or barriers that affect their lifestyle or social life, they may be referred to me. Acting as a ‘link’ between the GP and the community, I look at the whole person and help them with whatever matters to them, such as getting out of debt, staying independent, keeping active or making connections.

In the first appointment, which can take place over the phone or in person, we discuss what they need support with and any barriers they may face.

For example, if they lack confidence or struggle physically, I can arrange community transport, a travel buddy, or another solution.

What sorts of activities might you prescribe?

We’re lucky to have great parks in Islington, so I often prescribe people to wellbeing walks, chair-based yoga, gardening or volunteering sessions, and nature-based arts and crafts workshops.

They can help people become more active and connected to the community. Being outside and feeling like we are part of something can provide a natural boost – and it’s free!

If you would like to join a nature-based activity, contact your GP, or visit islington.gov.uk/ LoveYourPark. Alternatively, you can call Age UK Islington’s helpline on 020 7281 6018

Stay safe and keep cool Minimise your time in the sun.

Plan your activities for cooler times of the day, before 11am and after 3pm.

Keep curtains closed while the temperature outside is higher than it is inside.

Wear light, loose cotton clothes and take regular cool showers or baths. Sprinkling

children’s clothes with water or a damp cloth on the back of the neck helps, too.

Eat cold food. Salads and fruit with a high water content, such as melons or strawberries, have a particularly cooling effect.

Stay hydrated and avoid hot fluids, alcohol and caffeine.

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Ways to wellbeing

Connect. Make time to catch up with a friend, family or neighbour. Joining a local volunteering group is a great way to meet new people.

Find one near you: findyour. islington.gov.uk

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Be active. Walk the kids to school. Do some exercise at home. Take part in free local classes. Find out what’s on at islingtonlife.london.uk

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Keep learning. Try a new recipe, take up a hobby, or sign up for a course. Find one at adultlearning.islington.gov.uk

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Give. Do something nice for a friend, neighbour, or even a stranger. Thank someone. Give someone a smile. Volunteer your time.

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Take notice. Be curious and look at the nature around you. The Ecology Centre in Gillespie Park runs regular sensory walks. Find out more: islington.gov.uk/ EcologyCentre Visit islington.gov.uk/ MentalHealth for wellbeing advice and support

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Jobs and money

Family matters

Childcare costs can be a barrier for many parents wanting to start work or training. However, in Islington there are support services that can help – in fact, this year the council committed to quadrupling the size of the childcare bursary scheme, so that hundreds more parents will be able to get the support they need.

Becky Price, manager of the council’s Family Information Service (FIS), and parent Monica Borges tell us more

Monica I moved to London from Portugal with my three-monthold daughter in February. I’ve always worked and I wanted to do the same here in the UK. I wasn’t eligible for benefits, so having a job was the only way I could support myself and my daughter. However, in order to work, I needed childcare and this costs money.

I simply couldn’t afford the nursery fees and didn’t know what to do, so I got in touch with FIS. The team helped me to apply for a childcare bursary so I could cover nursery fees once I found a job. My application was successful. I found a full-time job, working 9am– 5pm, Monday to Friday, and managed to secure my daughter a place at a nursery, using the bursary to pay the first few months’ fees. The support I received didn’t stop there! On my first day of work I had no money for travel, so a member of the iWork team met me in the morning to put money on my oyster card.

They also referred me to the IMAX team, who helped me to apply for Universal Credit, which will help cover

the costs of childcare going forward.

Becky

I’ve lived in Islington all my life and joined the council in January. My job is to make sure FIS is running smoothly and to ensure parents and carers have access to support.

My team supports Islington families with children and young people up to the age of 25, and the practitioners who work with them. This includes offering a range of advice on the phone, by email and online through the Family Directory. We can help people with benefit entitlements, childcare support, accessing out of school provision, looking for things to do or supporting parents looking for work.

We can also support with free early learning applications and advise you on what you are entitled to and where there may be childcare vacancies, either at nursery or with a childminder. Our aim is to simplify the process and give you the support you need.

I’m passionate about making a difference, especially as I’m

a resident. I’ve been in post for nearly six months now and I can honestly say I’ve been blown away by how dedicated the team are. They go above Islington’s Family Information Service (FIS) provides information and support for parents looking for childcare and can explain the range of options available to help with costs. Contact them on 020 7527 5959, via email fis@islington.gov.uk or visit islington.gov.uk/fis to find out more.

Islington’s iWork service can help match your skills to local opportunities, if you need help

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Jobs and money

Cost of living support The price of energy, food and bills are all rising and many of us are anxious about our finances. There are local services that can help, please do get in touch. We’ve rounded up all the ways the council can support you when times are tough, as well as some energy saving tips for you to try at home

Money advice

If you’re worried about paying your rent or bills, or want to check your discounts or benefits entitlement, visit islington. gov.uk/moneyadvice, email claimit@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 8600. and beyond to help residents.

Please get in touch if you think we may be able to help, or let others know if you think we can help them. finding the right job.

Contact them on 020 7527 2706 or visit islington.gov.uk/ support-finding-work.

Islington’s Income Maximisation Team (IMAX) will help you work out what benefits and financial support you could be entitled to and help you make a claim.

Call on 020 7527 4990 or email claimit@islington.gov. uk for support.

Help with costs

If you’re facing extreme financial difficulties, Islington’s resident support scheme may be able to help with urgent costs, such as food and fuel vouchers, council tax, care grants and support with housing costs. Visit islington. gov.uk/resident-supportscheme or call 020 7527 4990.

Local food banks

If you’re struggling to afford food, there are food banks in Islington that provide essential supplies and free cooked meals. These organisations rely on donations and volunteers, so please get in

touch if you can help. Visit findyourislington.gov.uk and search ‘food bank’ to find more organisations offering food aid near you.

Help with council tax

If you’re struggling to cover your council tax bill, you may be entitled to help. Visit islington.gov.uk/counciltax-support, email benefits. service@islington.gov.uk, or call 020 7527 4990 for support.

Support with childcare

Financial support is available for parents and carers who need help with childcare fees. This includes a childcare bursary to help parents start work or training, free school meals, a uniform grant, free early learning and financial help for students moving into further education. See pages 2, 3 and 7 of our summer guide for more information, visit islington.gov.uk/fis or call 020 7527 5959.

Energy saving

There's a range of low cost and no cost measures you can take to save energy and reduce your bills.

See page 20 for tips and visit togethergreener.islington. gov.uk to find information on how different meters can help save energy.

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Cleaner, greener, healthier

It’s easy Park life being green Islington Council has committed to making our borough net zero carbon by 2030. But the council can only affect nine percent of emissions; by each committing to a few small steps, the impact we can make together could be huge!

And you’re never too young to start – as the year four students at Ambler Primary School attest. They tell us how they’ll do their bit to looking after the environment: “I am going to help by picking up rubbish” – Yara

“I am going to help the environment in Islington by planting some more trees” – Rosa

Visit TogetherGreener. islington.gov.uk and try the carbon calculator to see what your current emissions are, get suggestions on reducing them and make your pledge.

Summer has arrived – and we are more than ready to get back outdoors and soak up that sunshine. Islington has varied green spaces dotted across the borough, each of which has something different to offer.

Luckily, IslingtonLife has put together a guide to help you make the most. Discover Islington’s best parks… … for outdoor exercise

Get some gentle exercise and meet new people with a dementia-friendly guided walk at Gillespie Park, which takes place at 10am on the first Friday of every month.

Alternatively, join a free tour of the Caledonian Clock Tower or

a health and history walk for all abilities at Caledonian Park.

Want to step it up a bit? Visit an outdoor gym, with equipment for all abilities and fitness levels.

You’ll find them in Arundel Square, Elthorne Park, Paradise Park, Rosemary Gardens, St Paul’s South, Spa Fields, Tufnell Park Playing Fields and Whittington Park.

… for children

Many of Islington’s parks have fun playground equipment for children to explore. Barnard Park, Paradise Park, King Square Gardens, Highbury Fields and Whittington Park are great choices for the hot summer months as they have fun play features that spurt water!

Escape city life and meet farm animals at Freightliners City Farm, or visit the Barnard Park adventure playground. For organised activities, join the storytime sessions for underfives in Caledonian Park, or try The Garden Classroom’s

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Cleaner, greener, healthier

Zero waste hero

Isabelle Vandenbroucke recently convinced her building management to introduce food waste recycling facilities, with the support of the council.

She tells us more Many think that food waste is okay to dispose of in a normal bin because it breaks down in landfill but actually, when it doesn’t break down in the right conditions, it causes harmful greenhouse gases to be released into the atmosphere.

free little explorers sessions, connecting children and families to nature in Whittington Park, Newington Green, and King Square Gardens.

… for quiet reflection

With summer upon us, many parks will be getting busier, making it more difficult to find a quiet spot to rest and reflect. Islington’s three nature reserves – Gillespie Park, Barnsbury Wood and Parkland Walk – are hidden gems, with cooling shade and a wealth of fascinating plants and wildlife.

… for volunteering

Volunteering in a park is a fun way to keep active and meet new people, while getting stuck into pruning shrubs, creating bug hotels, planting, weeding and more. Islington Council’s community rangers host regular volunteering sessions at Spa Fields, Whittington Park, New River Walk, Rosemary Gardens, Caledonian Park and Gillespie Park. Or, consider joining a ‘friends of parks’ group, to improve your local

park. Find out more at islington. gov.uk/LoveYourPark

… for sensory gardens

Sensory gardens are green spaces that include plants and other features that purposely stimulate all senses. They are relaxing, therapeutic environments for people with mental illnesses, visual impairments, dementia, or developmental disabilities, but are highly enjoyable for anyone.

Find them in Caledonian Park, Barnard Park playground and King Square Gardens.

Visit islington.gov.uk/parks for more information

When I moved to Islington, I was surprised there was no food waste collection in my block, even though it's a service the council provides. It turned out management were worried about rodents and keeping it clean. I got in touch with the council and learned that bins can be cleaned and have a clip-lock system to keep pests out.

Management were convinced, and the council dropped off large communal food waste bins. Every flat got a caddy and a pack of compost bin liners. In the end it was a simple process and everyone seems to love it.

The council is expanding food waste services to estates with seven or more homes. Email recycling@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 2000 to find out more. islingtonlife.london

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IslingtonLife

Decent homes

Work in progress

Gary Chapman, manager of the council’s capital works team, on maintaining Islington’s council homes and simple tricks to make your home more energy efficient What does your job entail?

Our team works on all types of properties across the borough: in the last financial year, we spent almost £35 million on capital works. We decorate communal areas, make repairs and replace windows and roofs.

We also look at what we can do to make homes more energy efficient. This is to meet the council’s net zero target and to help residents live in warmer homes and save on bills.

expensive, though: secondary glazing – installing another layer of glass over the existing layer – is a cheaper option.

Either way, it's important to open your windows every now and then to prevent condensation and mould.

What steps are you taking to make homes more energy efficient?

Our new build homes have double glazing, insulation, solar panels and air filters that can remove mould spores. We have a target to get homes we manage up to an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. This relates to the amount of energy a home uses and carbon dioxide emissions. The best rating is A; the lowest is G.

What can we do?

Insulation is one of the cheapest and quickest ways to prevent heat loss. If you live in a house, check your loft is properly insulated. Draughtproofing also helps: strips can be added to doors, letterboxes and windows to prevent draughts. Curtains also stop draughts and help keep heat in.

Double glazing keeps heat in and noise out. It can be

Another good thing to do is swap your bulbs for LED ones, which use less energy and can last for longer than other bulbs.

Consider swapping one in next time you replace a bulb.

For more tips, go to the islington.gov.uk/shine website or call the energy advice team on 0207 527 2121.

If you own your home, you may be eligible for a grant for some of these works: gov.uk/improve-energyefficiency

Room to move

Islington Council is committed to building new council homes to help alleviate the housing crisis and to help people like Leonie, who was in desperate need of more space for her young family. She tells her story After I had my baby, me and my husband felt increasingly enclosed in our studio home.

What should’ve been a happy time was stressful. I was embarrassed to invite anyone round, as I didn’t want them to see how we were living.

We would schedule our lives around all being in one room.

We would try and eat dinner early, so when the baby slept the room was quiet and anything noisy, like washing-up, had already been done.

It made me depressed. We couldn’t afford to rent privately or buy a home, so we were trapped in one room that had everything in: the kitchen, bed and wardrobe. There was very little free floor space and as our son got older, I felt bad that he didn’t have much space to move around in. I used to take him to my mum’s house, so he could play with toys.

After my son’s second birthday, I got the news that we were being offered a two=bedroom flat at council rent. It was like a dream. I can’t put it into words how much it has helped me.

I was crying with happiness when I heard the news and I still feel so thankful.

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Decent homes

Growing communities

Across Islington, residents and council staff have been coming together to brighten up estates’ communal green spaces, while tapping into the transformative power of gardening for health and wellbeing. IslingtonLife finds out more our surveys! Up to one in five residents said they would like to be involved in improving their communal garden, which is fantastic. On several estates we are now beginning to work with residents to make the improvements they’ve asked for.”

To help make Islington’s estates cleaner, greener, healthier, and more enjoyable places to live, the council has established a new Housing Community Gardening Team. The three experienced gardeners who make up the team – Mark, Karon and Alex – started by speaking to residents in the Barnsbury area, to find out how they would like to see their outdoor spaces improved.

In the months following, the team got to work weeding and planting on Legion Close, Thornhill House, Montague Court and Andover Estate.

“We’ve planted a variety of plants, such as hebe pagei and geranium Johnson’s blue, and installed support wires for climbing plants such as star jasmine, among other

tasks,” says head community gardener Mark Rowe. “On Popham Estate we planted a bed with help from children from the New North Academy.

The children really enjoyed it, so over the summer term we will get them involved in watering and weeding the bed.”

A key part of the team’s work is to support residents who would like to get involved in gardening or food growing on their estate. “We want to give residents the opportunity to connect with nature and reap the mental and physical health benefits you get from gardening. It’s been encouraging to see how much residents value their communal gardens,” Mark continues. “We’ve had an amazing response rate to

Local secondary school Beacon High School and the charity Octopus Community Network have also tapped into the transformative power of gardening. They have been using a plant nursery on Tufnell Park Estate to get young people with special educational needs, some of whom live on the estate, involved in tasks such as weeding, watering, sweeping and planting.

Besides bringing joy to the estate’s residents, the project is all about supporting the students to build their selfconfidence, form social connections, and acquire a sense of responsibility.

Sidney is in year eight and has attended weekly sessions at the plant nursery for two years.

“I’m autistic and two years ago I was always running around, not listening to anyone,” he reflects. “Now, I’ve calmed down. It’s good to have a way to release your anger and gardening is something that can help you do that.”

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IslingtonLife

Community safety

Opening doors

Islington has opened its arms to migrants and refugees for many years and our response to the Ukraine crisis has been no different. Many residents have invited refugees into their homes – including Leonie, who welcomed Anastasia in May 2022. They share their story Anastasia grew up in Dnipro, central Ukraine. When the invasion began in February, the aggression and stories from across Ukraine were hard to hear and very frightening.

Anastasia knew she had to leave. She began a two-month journey across Europe, taking buses, trains and finally a flight to the UK, where she met Leonie.

Before arriving in Islington, Anastasia had never been to the UK, and she says for most Ukrainians it would be very difficult to get here. The availability of shops, bars, parks, and social spaces is something that she loves about Islington. “London is huge!” she says with a smile.

Zi is a violence reduction unit parent champion, who has completed Social Switch Project training: a course that helps people understand best practice for all things digital.

She shares advice for helping young people stay safe online

Have conversations about social media. When you’re gathered around for dinner or watching TV together, have open and honest conversations.

Set an example. If you want your young person to be more present and spend less time on devices, make sure you walk the walk, not just talk the talk!

Leonie is an Islington resident and signed up to become a host on the recommendation of a mutual friend. Leonie initially had reservations: she lives alone with her two children and wondered about the impact inviting a stranger into her home might have. After thinking on it for a few days, speaking with Anastasia and connecting with her, Leonie applied to officially become a host.

Since arriving in Islington in early May, Anastasia has explored her local area a lot. She loves the trees and greenery in Islington, and regularly visits Whittington Park.

Top tips: Online safety

If your child is on a social media app, why not join it and see what it’s like? You might even learn about a hobby or interest your young person has.

Agree boundaries. Talk to your child to figure out a good time to put devices down and tell them how much screen time they can have.

Anastasia’s advice for anyone arriving from Ukraine to the UK is: “Give yourself some time.

Everything here is new, but everyone is so welcoming. If you need help, someone will be able to give it.” For anyone who is thinking of hosting a family but is unsure, “follow your heart,” says Leonie. "You won’t regret it!”

To find out more about how you can support refugees, visit Islington.gov.uk/ RefugeeHelp

Be aware of risks. Talk with your child about potential risks of grooming, sharing personal information and pictures online.

Find out more about the Social Switch Project sign up for a course: thesocialswitchproject.org.uk The council also runs social media and online safety training. Follow them on Twitter for the latest @IslingtonBC or visit the NSPCC website for more online safety advice: nspcc. org.uk/OnlineSafety

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Local life

The dream team

Arsenal in the Community works in partnership with the council to provide safe spaces where young people can attend programmes that help them stay active and learn new skills, while having fun.

We head to the Harvist Estate one sunny evening to learn more

Community care

Islington Shared Lives connects people aged 16 and over who require support with carers in the community. Keisha has been a carer for two years.

She tells IslingtonLife why it’s the best job she’s ever had I provide day services to two siblings in my home, which works perfectly for my lifestyle, as I am also self-employed and have two school-aged children.

“I grew up on the Harvist Estate and I used to come to the Arsenal in the Community sessions with my brother,” remembers coach Kai Brennan.

Fast forward 10 years and Kai is now a community sessional worker, running football sessions for children of all ages, across Islington.

Kai initially went to college to do a BTEC in sport but decided it wasn’t for him. So, he went back to his old coaches at Arsenal in the Community and they helped him get the necessary qualifications to become a coach.

“Arsenal in the Community is not just about developing football skills, it’s a route into a coaching career,” Kai continues.

“It helps kids to develop social and communications skills, too, and is a place to come and ease your mind.”

The majority of coaches on the programme were originally participants. “They act as really good role models,” says Anthony Prodromou, social inclusion coordinator at Arsenal FC. “People will have seen Kai grow up on the estate, and now he’s coaching them. They might in turn decide that they want to do the same. We are really proud of the role Kai and the rest of our coaches play in the community.”

During the holidays, Arsenal in the Community will be running Lunch Bunch clubs, which take place every day and include a free lunch. Sessions are aimed at people living on the local estate.

Email aprodromou@arsenal. co.uk to out more about Arsenal in the Community and find a football or Lunch Bunch session near you

My day typically starts at 10am, when they love to listen to music. What we do for the rest of the day is up to them. It could be crafts, baking, bowling, or going to the park gym. They also set goals they want to work towards, and it is so rewarding to see them both learn new skills and grow more confident.

My sons love seeing my Shared Lives residents. One of them has such a great bond with my youngest son. He finds him so funny. Seeing their bond grow is so special. I have also developed great friendships through the Shared Lives carers group. The coordinators provide amazing support and training, too – I can call them any time.

It's often hard to find a job that you really enjoy and get paid for it, but that’s what I have.

I hope to be doing this until I cannot do it anymore.

To learn more, call the team on 020 7527 7661, email sharedlives@islington.gov.uk or visit the islington.gov.uk/ SharedLives website islingtonlife.london