IslingtonLife winter 2018

Your local magazine from Islington Council • Winter 2018

Free parking vouchers inside!

Support your local shops

All your Christmas listings

Home for Christmas

Building new homes for local people

IslingtonLife

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Contents

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Welcome Message from the Council Leader

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News Islington’s first School Street

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Jobs and money Could the New Year bring a new job in housing?

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Christmas recycling What to do with your tree after the festive season

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Local life Could you donate a toy to help make someone’s Christmas?

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What’s on Archway Christmas market, festive skate sessions and pantos!

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2018 review We look back at some of the year’s major events

Christmas Support your local shops and businesses

Parking vouchers Get your free Christmas parking vouchers

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Homes Improving Islington’s estates

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Children and young people Important issues for young people

Your home News and information for Islington Council’s tenants and leaseholders

Christmas opening hours How to reach us during the festive holiday

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Health Top tips to help you stay healthy this winter

Highlights 14

Cut your energy bills with Dr Energy

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Discover this year’s Market Trader winner

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30 years bringing the borough’s history to life

Winter 2018

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Welcome Welcome to the festive edition of IslingtonLife.

Cllr Richard Watts Leader of the Council

View this and previous issues online at issuu.com/islingtonlifemag Be the first to hear about the latest news.

Visit islingtonlife.london Follow us on Twitter @IslingtonLife and @IslingtonBC for council news To receive news and updates directly to your inbox visit www.islington.gov.uk/ stayupdated 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.

Christmas is a brilliant time of year in Islington. From the wonderful light displays in our town centres and high streets, to the huge number of community events that take place across the borough – it’s a time for us to come together, but also to reflect on the year gone by.

This year we have continued to build more new council homes for local people. I was proud to open new council homes – as well as two new community centres – at Crouch Hill and Holloway this year. Thanks to support from the Mayor of London, we are now aiming to build over 680 new council homes by 2022, as part of the largest council house building programme in Islington for 30 years.

The housing crisis facing Islington, and the rest of London, means that homelessness continues to be a challenge. That’s why, particularly in times of cold weather, I am pleased that the council is pushing ahead with our ‘Housing First’ approach, see p20, which provides homeless people with secure accommodation and support to help them address issues that are affecting them.

Many of the people who I meet, as both a local councillor and as Leader of the Council, are facing challenges due to being out of work. This year has been another hugely successful one for the council’s support services that are helping people into work. Since 2014, we have supported over 4,600 local people into jobs, including more than 1,300 young people. Alongside this, we are building on our pioneering work to secure genuinely affordable workspace for local entrepreneurs and start-ups in new developments, which has seen us secure more than three Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of space already.

alternative to the ‘big six’ energy providers, Angelic Energy, celebrate its 1st birthday. I’m really proud that the energy being provided through Angelic Energy is now 100% green, and that over 2,500 households have switched to this fairer alternative, helping people to save over £270 on average.

Looking back over the year just gone always makes me think of the amazing children and young people I have met.

The Fair Futures Commission, our year-long in-depth look at what life is like for children and young people in Islington, engaged hundreds of local people and its recommendations will now be implemented by the council – including guaranteeing 100 hours of experience of the world of work by 16 and giving young people a voice in major new housing developments.

Our schools also continued to achieve impressive results, and nine out of ten local schools are now rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

As always, this year has not been without its challenges. We gathered to mark the first anniversary of the Finsbury Park terrorist attack in June, and continue to work hard with the police to address serious violent crime. The government’s cuts to the council also continue, despite what the Prime Minister may have said, and the devastating Highbury Pool fire could have been far more serious if not for the actions of the Fire Service and staff at the leisure centre – rest assured, we will rebuild and reopen the centre.

As you can see, 2018 has been a year of challenges for Islington, but also of success. Whilst there are issues we must work harder to overcome, we remain determined to help make our borough a fairer place for all.

Merry Christmas, and happy New Year.

This year also saw our fairer islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

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News

Building a fairer Islington Can you imagine what Islington might be like by 2035? Islington Council is drafting a new set of rules that developers seeking planning permission will have to meet in the future, and you can give your feedback.

Islington’s existing planning rules are among the strictest in London and the council intends to keep it that way to secure maximum benefits for residents and businesses.

More high quality and genuinely affordable homes At least 50% of new homes need to be genuinely affordable. There will also be strict standards around the size of all new homes, their adaptability and access to outside space.

A thriving local economy All new commercial developments should provide affordable space for local businesses. The council has also set out where it thinks new workspaces could be built to provide more local job opportunities. Plus, restrictions will be put in place to limit new betting shops and takeaways.

Protecting the environment and character

use of all available space. Genuinely affordable homes will be given a priority, but not on precious green spaces. Careful considerations have been given for the location of taller buildings and detailed guidelines for specific sites are included in the draft rules. Finally, all new buildings must meet the highest standards for sustainability to tackle climate change.

View or comment at www.islington.gov.uk/localplan

Islington is already very built up and so it’s important to make best

The draft Local Plan sets out strong policies requiring:

50%

of all new housing to be genuinely affordable

10%

of office floorspace as affordable workspace

Newly built council homes on Camden Estate

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News

School Streets bringing cleaner air and safer roads Breathing in dirty air can affect children’s health and going to school in heavy traffic can be dangerous.

That’s why the council has committed to improving air quality and road safety for pupils in Islington.

Islington’s first School Street has been launched at St John Evangelist School in Angel, and six other Schools Streets across the borough are currently under consultation.

The School Street scheme will bring cleaner air and safer streets to pupils; reducing traffic and encouraging children and parents to walk or cycle to school.

Roads directly outside the entrance to schools will close to cars temporarily at the start and end of the school day, when the road

Making cycling easier Cycling is a great way to get around.

It helps you stay active, improves air quality and helps create quieter neighbourhoods. The council wants Islington to be a place where everybody feels safe when they use a bike and has launched six principles to improve cycling in the borough.

Reduce deaths and serious injuries to zero by taking a proactive approach to reducing motor traffic and road danger

will become a pedestrian and cycle zone. These roads will be enforced.

Residents or business owners with permits for an affected street will be able to apply for an exemption.

Create a dense, borough-wide, high quality network of protected and low-traffic cycle routes

The scheme is designed to create an environment that encourages more walking and cycling, improves air quality, reduces emissions and makes the road safer for pupils as they arrive and leave from school.

Seek to deliver improved conditions for cycling as part of all highway works

Find out more at www.islington. gov.uk/schoolstreets

Continue to invest in a programme of residential, workplace, school and on-street secure cycle parking

Maximise accessibility by removing physical barriers

Provide National Standards cycle training to anybody who lives, works, or studies in the borough

Happy birthday Angelic A year ago Islington Council launched Angelic Energy, a not-for-profit energy provider that offers low cost gas and electricity across Greater London, in an effort to tackle fuel poverty.

More than 2,600 customers have already signed up for a fairer

deal on their gas and electricity.

You could save hundreds of pounds by switching. Find out more and get a quote today, visit www.angelicenergy.co.uk or call 0800 169 0220.

islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

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2018 review

We take a look back at some of Islington’s major events of the year One year after the Finsbury Park terrorist attack, Islington came together to celebrate the strength and spirit of its community in the face of tragedy.

On June 19, a minute’s silence was held on the Town Hall steps to remember the victims and pay tribute to everyone who was affected by the attack. Councillor Richard Watts, leader of Islington Council, said at the time: “I have been deeply moved to see our community stand stronger than ever to reject that message of hate and fear.”

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud pays tribute at the minute’s silence

Residents celebrate the opening of Brickworks Community Centre

Building new council homes across the borough is one of the council’s main priorities and it is committed to building 1,900 genuinely affordable homes between 2018 and 2022, including 550 new council homes.

In January, residents of Crouch Hill celebrated the opening of Brickworks Community Centre and 23 new council homes, then in July, Goodinge Community Centre opened in Holloway along with 23 new homes. In October, the council got a boost by securing £24.2m funding from the Mayor of London to allow it to build an additional 131 new council homes for Islington residents on top of those already planned.

March was spring clean time for the borough, with schoolchildren, residents and local businesses all pitching in to help Islington Council’s street environment teams tackle litter, graffiti, dirty pavements and other grimy grot spots.

As well as the month-long blitz and spritz, the council introduced new technology for quicker responses to fly-tipping reports and to improve rubbish and recycling collections. It also introduced new neighbourhood street sweeping teams who visit up to five times a week and visit soon after bins have been collected to clear up anything that may have been missed or spilled.

Pupils from Grafton Primary School help clean up the Nag’s Head town centre

Winter 2018

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2018 review In October, the council confirmed its pledge to make Islington a great place to grow up.

Cycling and improving air quality are another two important issues in Islington that go hand-in-hand.

Jermain Jackman, chair of the Fair Futures commission, said he was “humbled” when the council committed to all of the commission’s recommendations, including that all children receive 100 hours of meaningful experience of the world of work by the age of 16 – a UK first !

The council announced in July that Bikehangar units would be rolled out across the borough to provide secure parking for cycles.

Then in September Quietway 2 opened, which is a 12km cycling route connecting Bloomsbury and Walthamstow via Angel.

Islington celebrated Car Free Day on September 22 by turning parking spaces into parklets, and Archway Zen held a street party in Giesbach Road. Poor air quality around schools was put under the spotlight at the end of the year as part of the School Streets Scheme, where a road with a school temporarily closes to become a pedestrian and cycle zone during the opening and closing times, so watch this space for news about this in 2019.

Inside Highbury Leisure Centre following the blaze

Jermain Jackman and students from Arts & Media School Islington

In September a huge fire sadly destroyed Highbury Leisure Centre.

Customers and staff were quickly evacuated as the fire took hold and fortunately no one was hurt. There were 12 fire engines and about 80 firefighters at the scene, who did a fantastic job, but there was significant damage to the building and it is now closed until further notice. GLL, which operates seven leisure centres and nine courts and pitches in Islington, aims to restore services at the centre as quickly as possible. In the meantime, it is offering extended member access at other Better leisure centres in the borough, as well as a reduction in monthly prepaid membership fees.

Ava and Brook enjoy Car Free Day in Archway

For further enquiries call 020 7704 2312 or email highbury@gll.org islingtonlife.london

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IslingtonLife

Homes

Helping to keep Islington’s estates safe Making sure everyone in Islington has a place to live that is affordable, decent and secure is a top priority for the council.

Concierge staff, who work on some of the borough’s larger estates and tower blocks, play an important role by providing better security and reducing the fear of crime on estates.

Sam Dankyi has been working as a concierge supervisor on the Andover Estate for over 10 years and knows it like the back of his hand.

“I have a good relationship with residents, and am here to help by arranging repairs, collecting packages and even resolving disputes between tenants,” he says.

“On the Andover we have about 212 CCTV cameras, which we review every hour. If we see anything that doesn’t look right we can investigate straightaway, or call the council’s anti-social behaviour team, or the police if we need to.”

Andover concierge, Sam Dankyi

“Residents really trust us, and because I’ve worked here for so long they know me and I know them – that relationship and knowledge across all of our estates is really important when it comes to keeping Islington safe.”

You can help create a safer Islington

Always report your concerns by calling the police on 101. In an emergency always call 999.

Warning over cold callers Action is being taken after more than 29 doorstep-selling complaints have been reported to Trading Standards since the start of 2018.

In a typical scam, a rogue trader cold calls to say work is needed to

your home – such as repairs to a drive, guttering or roof. They offer to carry out the work for a low price, but then pretend more work needs doing, with costs quickly escalating to £10,000 or more.

Trading Standards says do not buy from cold callers, be very cautious about anyone who calls at your home unannounced and do not agree to have work done by them. If you need advice or want to report a trader call 0345 404 0506.

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Homes

New homes for Christmas Mary Robson

Mary Robson, who has also moved into New Romford House, says: “It was very important for me to stay in the area. I have friends close by, it’s not too far for my family to drive over and I’m close to my family church.

Derek Marjoram

Local residents have moved into a newly built council homes for over 55s on the Dover Court Estate – just in time for Christmas.

Islington Council has embarked on a massive home building programme to deliver decent, safe and genuinely affordable homes for all. So far, it has delivered more than 2,400 new genuinely affordable homes for Islington residents, including 1,645 for social rent.

but if you look around it’s built for disabled people,” he says. “You have wide passages, wide entrances.

You have a sink that lowers up and down. It has a cooking hob that also moves up and down, which allows disabled people to be able to cook their own meals in safety.

Born and bred in Islington, Derek Marjoram is a long-term resident of Dover Court Estate. Derek recently moved into New Romford House, and is very happy with his new home.

“The bathroom has been adapted for me. It is in fact a wet-room, built so that you can just wheel yourself in there. It’s amazing the thought that’s gone into it.

“This flat is amazing in itself. It looks like a normal living quarters

“I have all of the facilities here I need to live independently, in safety, which is very reassuring.”

“It means a lot to be in my new home for Christmas. My son is coming down from Bristol, to share Christmas with me. My youngest son and his partner will come over for Christmas day. There’ll be lots of decorations – I’m quite good at decorating. Boxing day, I always have a lot of friends around.

“And yes, I’m really looking forward to it!”

550

We are building 550 new council homes before 2022 Locals get first dibs on new council homes we build Building new homes helps communities stay together and reduces overcrowding

islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

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Children and young people

Learn and play for free

Yasmin and her keyworker Charmaine enjoy painting together

Did you know that your two year-old could be getting free early learning at a high-quality local nursery or with a childminder?

If you are unemployed or earning a low wage, or if your child has a special educational need, you could get up to 570 hours a year for your child to learn, play and make friends. It will give you some muchneeded time as well!

Maurilaine, Yasmin’s mum, is in no doubt about the difference the scheme has made to her family: “It has allowed Yasmin to play with other children, build confidence and learn English as we speak

Maurilaine

Portuguese and Spanish at home.

And she is much more confident making friends.”

While Yasmin has been at nursery, Maurilaine has been able to work and study accountancy. “It’s helped me build confidence. I feel safe knowing that she’s in a safe place,” she said.

Free early learning helps children to be school-ready and the benefits carry right through the school years.

Children who have experienced free early learning at age two understand more and have better language and social skills at age three than those who have missed out.

Maurilaine understands that some parents might be nervous about their young child leaving the

home, but she says that staff were really helpful settling in Yasmin.

Charmaine, Yasmin’s keyworker, explains: “We were able to help mum with the settling in period by showing her photos and sharing what Yasmin had done during the day. She could see that Yasmin was thriving!”

Maurilaine was reassured because: “The staff at the centre are lovely, friendly, helpful people – so patient and kind. I could see that if Yasmin cried, they would hold and comfort her as if she were their child.

I would say to parents: let them play, let them experience life for themselves, let them go!”

For further information, contact the Family Information Service on 020 7527 5959 or visit www.islington.gov.uk/free2

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Children and young people

Making their mark Tackling knife crime, homelessness and improving mental health were the three most important issues for Islington’s young people in a recent ballot for the UK Youth Parliament.

Youth Councillor Isabella WoldayMyers is Islington’s Member of Youth Parliament. She canvassed more than 2,500 young people across Islington to find out what their top issues were on the Make Your Mark ballot.

The Make Your Mark ballot is the largest youth consultation in Europe and issues young people vote for are debated by members of the UK Youth Parliament in the House of Commons.

Isabella said: “Make Your Mark gave us the opportunity to check in with our electorate. It’s great so many young people took part, including young people who are looked after

by Islington Council. We were also supported by specialist youth workers who helped us engage with young people on our estates, so they could have their say.

“We will be at the next full council meeting on 6 December and will use this opportunity to challenge council leaders about these priority issues.”

The top 3 issues End to knife crime: Too many young people’s lives are lost to knife crime: the government needs to do more to help end the knife crime epidemic Mental health: Mental health services should be improved with young people’s help; and should be available in schools.

Let’s tackle homelessness: Every person should have a place to live and the opportunity to live comfortably.

#StayingSafe #BeingHealthy #OurFreeTime #FutureReady

islingtonlife.london

Apply now for Islington primary schools if your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015

Everything you want from a school, right on your doorstep: highly skilled and enthusiastic teachers fun and inspiring classes excellent facilities There is no automatic entry to reception from nursery.

Apply by 15 January 2019 for the best chance of a reception place at your preferred school. Visit www.islington.gov.uk/admissions

www.islington.gov.uk/admissions

Winter 2018

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Jobs and money

New year, new job?

We’d love to have you!

Are you friendly, helpful and keen to make a difference? You could be just the person the council’s housing team is looking for!

You don’t need any formal qualifications to get a job as a caretaker, concierge or apprentice bricklayer, it’s far more important that you are keen to learn. There is training and shadowing on offer to help you learn, plus Islington Council is a Living Wage employer and keen to invest in people who have the interests of their local community at heart.

Arizona Jones grew up on the Marquis Estate. He started as an apprentice in Islington Council’s HR department nearly five years ago, and was offered a permanent job when his apprenticeship ended.

He’s worked in several parts of the council, and has now moved up to an officer role in the housing team.

“At the moment I’m working with caretakers to make sure residents get the best service, and it’s great working in my local neighbourhood,” Arizona said. “My colleagues at the council are amazing and if you want to develop, they push you and help you. There are so many opportunities here.”

Arizona has been working for the council for 5 years

Sound interesting? We’d love to hear from you – give us a call for an informal chat. Call Winston Morris about caretaker jobs, Rifat Hasan about the concierge jobs, and Geeta Tailor about apprenticeships, on 020 7527 2000.

You can see all the jobs on offer at Islington Council at www. islington.gov.uk/jobs

islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

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Jobs and money

Dr. Energy answers your questions Avoid a Meet Terry Jeffrey, one of Islington Council’s Energy Doctors. He visits hundreds of homes to help them cut energy use and save money. He answers your questions on how to stay warm this winter without facing huge bills.

It’s cold outside, but I want to cut my energy bills, what can I do that is easy and cheap?

First look at what temperature your heating is set to - for most 21C is perfect and turning your thermostat down by just 1C can save £60 a year.

Make sure your immersion boiler isn’t on as running it can cost up to 50p an hour. Also replace your lightbulbs with low energy LED bulbs and draught proof your main door.

Christmas debt hangover checking that you are getting the best deal. Maybe use a switching site to show her how much she could save.

You could be entitled to help to cut your bills through the Energy Doctor or the council’s award-winning SHINE network. If you are on a low income, are over 60, have children under 15, or have a disability or health condition visit shine-london. org.uk or call 0300 555 0195.

My elderly mother is reluctant to change energy suppliers, what advice do you have?

Switching can be the best way to save money on your bills, often around £200 so it is worth regularly

Are you on Universal Credit?

If you have recently moved to Universal Credit it can take more than five weeks to get your first payment from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). If you need help during this time, there are options available:

Apply for a special arrangement (known as an Alternative Payment Arrangement) to request that things like your rent goes direct to your landlord, a weekly payment instead of monthly, or splitting payments on a joint claim. Speak to your work coach about this.

Apply for an advance payment through the DWP. This is a loan that will need to be paid back to the DWP over 12 months, they will deduct it from your Universal Credit payments so you will receive less each month.

Before you apply consider whether you can afford these repayments.

For help with budgeting speak to a Citizens Advice advisor at Islington Customer Centre, at your Job Centre, or call 0300 330 1197.

For more information visit www. islington.gov.uk/universalcredit

The cost of Christmas can add up – presents, extra spending on food, on top of higher gas and electricity bills – can put finances under extra pressure come the new year.

Follow these tips to avoid starting the new year in debt: Set a budget and stick to it – this is the best way to manage debt but only one in four of us do it Keep track of your spending – take into account that you may get paid earlier than usual in December so it may need to last you longer

Continue to pay your bills – like rent, council tax, gas and electricity because falling behind will make it harder to catch up and may mean additional charges

Cut costs in other areas – you could save on energy bills by switching energy providers – check www.angelicenergy.co.uk to see how much you could save with Angelic Energy and follow our other energy saving tips above

Get advice now - if you are struggling with debt act early, call the Islington Advice Alliance on 020 3475 5080 or visit www.islington.gov.uk/moneyadvice.

Winter 2018

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Christmas

Make your Christmas ‘green’ Most residents in Islington recycle regularly and Christmas need not be any different. There are loads of ways that you can make your festive season environmentally-friendly with these easy tips.

recycling bin (all street properties and many flats do), you can recycle all your food left overs into lovely new compost.

Christmas cards and wrapping paper

Food waste

You can find out lots of ways to make the most of your Christmas leftovers by searching recipe ideas online.

But if you have a food waste

You could keep your Christmas cards and use them for gift tags next year! Otherwise, you can recycle all your Christmas cards and wrapping paper, unless it is glittery or metalised wrapping paper (if you scrunch it and it stays scrunched, it can be recycled!).

Cardboard

Fold and flatten cardboard before putting it out for recycling. If you’re using a communal recycling bin, please help keep them tidy by putting the cardboard inside the bins. Please remove plastic wrap and masking tape if you can.

Cans and bottles

These can all be recycled in your green box, your clear recycling sack, or your nearest communal recycling site.

Find out more at www.islington.gov.uk/recycling

Take care of your tree, don't dump it!

Recycling your Christmas tree is easy.

Love your tree, don't dump it!

and only real Christmas trees will be collected.

Street properties

Please put your tree on the edge of your property. We will collect your tree on your normal recycling collection day between 1 January and 16 January.

After you’ve enjoyed your lovely tree over Christmas, do the right thing and dispose of it responsibly. It is really easy. Dumping your tree is fly-tipping and that is illegal.

It’s easy to recycle your Christmas tree in Islington. Here’s how.

Decorations

All decorations need to be removed

Islington Council estates

We will collect Christmas trees on 12 and 19 January. Please check with your caretaker where your collection point is on your estate.

Residents on other estates should check with their landlords what arrangements they have made.

Flats above shops

Place your tree at your normal rubbish collection point on 7 January.

Park drop-off points between 1 - 20 January 2018

King Square Barnard Park, Charlotte Terrace Rosemary Gardens Elthorne Park Wray Crescent (park end) Spa Fields (off Northampton Road) Tufnell Park, Campdale Road

The Household Reuse and Recycling Centre, Hornsey Street also accepts Christmas trees and green waste all year round. islingtonlife.london

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IslingtonLife

Christmas

Discover your local high street Why face the crowds of central London when you can do all your festive shopping on your local high street? Support your neighbourhood’s businesses and shop local! held every Saturday from 10amAngel and Upper Street Finsbury Park With high street stores and local shops, plus the fantastic Chapel Market, this is a great place to do some Christmas shopping.

If you’re looking for something more unusual, why not try the shops and stalls down Camden Passage.

5pm, with a good mix of traders, including the ‘Best Bookstall in North London.’

You can also get discounts and special offers in some of the shops with the Archway Card. Find out more at www.archwaylondon. com/archwaycard

With around 100 independent shops dedicated to fashion, Fonthill Road is your go-to destination for a new Christmas outfit. And if you are looking for a more unusual gift, Stroud Green Road has an array of unique independent shops.

Archway

Clerkenwell

Nag’s Head and Holloway

Don’t miss the Archway Christmas Market on in Navigator Square from Saturday 8-22 December.

The regular Archway Market, at the corner of Holloway Road and St John’s Grove, is also

Check out the shops and grab a bite to eat at Exmouth Market and book your Christmas turkey from a butcher at Smithfield Market.

Another good destination for Christmas shopping, this area has a mix of large supermarkets, big brand shops and the famous Nag’s Head covered market.

Islington’s top traders Market Christmas light switch-on event.

David’s daughter Jo Coote, who now runs the card stall, said: “It’s fantastic to have won this competition on our 50th year in Chapel Market. It is thanks to our wonderful customers and we are so proud to have been nominated by them.”

Two long-standing and popular stall holders have been named Islington’s Market Traders of the Year 2018.

David Brastock, whose card stall has been operating in Chapel Market for 50 years, and Serpil Erce, behind

Sunny Olive Tree stall at Whitecross Street Market, were presented with their prize - £150 off their ground rent – by Islington celebrity Su Pollard and the Mayor of Islington, Cllr Dave Poyser, at the Chapel

Serpil said: “I am overwhelmed and delighted to have won this for the second year in a row. We have lovely and loyal customers, who know that we will be out in Whitecross Street come rain or shine.”

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Your home News for council tenants and leaseholders

Free decorating scheme

Jeanette and Steve

Did you know Islington offers a free decorating scheme for council tenants who are over 70, on certain benefits, or have a disability? The assisted decorating service has been running for years and covers the painting or wallpapering of two rooms of your choice.

Jeanette Young had her kitchen and living room decorated as part of the scheme and was so delighted with the results she helped more than 10 of her neighbours to benefit too.

She said: “Everyone was over the moon. It lifted their spirits. If you can’t do these things yourself, it can get you down and the work builds up.”

Jeanette, who is secretary of her tenants and residents’ association, even helped her neighbours choose

the wallpaper and paint with the books provided by decorator Steve Chamberlain.

He said: “We try and help out as much as we can. We don’t like moving people’s valuables, but will lift almost anything else, and all the heavy stuff.”

Steve, who has worked for the council for 40 years, often goes above and beyond the wallpapering.

During the time he was working on Jeanette’s and her neighbours’ homes he arranged for a new house

number sign to be put up because it was missing. And another time he had a new handle installed on a woman’s home after he noticed her struggling to close the door with her key.

So, if you fancy giving your home a facelift, find out more at www.islington. gov.uk/decoration or ask for a form from your Area Housing Office.

islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

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Your home News for council tenants and leaseholders

Christmas opening hours for council tenants

Area Housing Offices St John Street 245 St John St, Clerkenwell, EC1V 4NB T 020 7527 6250

the borough while the other area housing offices are closed.

Sunday 30 December Emergency repairs only

Housing repair service

Monday 31 December 8am-8pm

Report your repair online at any time www.islington.gov.uk/ housing/repairs-and-estatemanagement

Holland Walk 85-88 Holland Walk, N19 3S T 020 7527 7480

The repairs service will attend emergency and urgent repairs throughout Christmas.

These two offices will be closed on Tuesday 25 December until Wednesday 2 January.

Monday 24 December 8am-8pm

Upper Street 222 Upper Street, N1 1XR T 020 7527 5300 Will be closed on Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 December and Tuesday 1 January. It will be open on Thursday 27, Friday 28 and Monday 31 December from 9am4pm. Upper Street staff will be able to assist housing callers from across

Tuesday 25 and Wednesday 26 December Emergency repairs only Thursday 27 and Friday 28 December 8am-8pm Saturday 29 December 8am-12noon

Tuesday 1 January Emergency repairs only Emergency repairs can be reported on 0800 694 3344.

Housing aid team

The housing aid team will not be available after 4pm on Monday 24 December. The office will reopen at 9am on Wednesday 2 January 2019.

When the office is closed an emergency telephone service is available for people who are homeless and unable to find alternative accommodation.

Call the council’s main switchboard on 020 7527 2000.

For other opening hours see page 31.

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Your home News for council tenants and leaseholders

Keep mould and condensation

Islington Council

at bay this winter

if you’re struggling to

Here are some top tips on treating mould and reducing condensation.

How to get rid of mould:

Kill it and remove it: wipe your walls and window frames with a fungicidal wash, available from hardware and DIY stores. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Stop it coming back: After treatment, redecorate using a good quality anti-mould paint to stop it coming back. Remember it won’t work if you cover the fungicidal paint with normal paint or wallpaper.

Mouldy clothes or carpets?

Prevent breathing problems by dry cleaning mildewed clothes and shampooing carpets.

tenants – get in touch pay your rent.

Once you’ve treated any mould, try these tips to reduce your condensation: Cut down on moisture: cover boiling pots, dry washing outside, or in a well ventilated room, and keep the kitchen and bathroom doors shut when you’re using them Open windows for ventilation: if you’re cooking, drying clothes and after a bath or shower – even for a short time if it’s cold!

Try to keep your home between 18-21C: Contact our Energy Advice Team if you’re struggling to pay your heating bills Wipe condensation off windows and sills to stop damage

Christmas is around the corner and it can be an expensive time of year.

If you are worried about paying your rent, please contact your income recovery officer as soon as possible to discuss next steps – they are based at your Area Housing Office and are there to help. If you are a Partners tenant, contact Partners directly. The longer you wait, the more money you will end up owing, so call today.

Help stop housing fraud What sort of person would deliberately stop someone in extreme housing need from getting a home?

A person who doesn’t tell the truth about their housing circumstances.

A person who pretends they live in a council property when they don’t.

A person who sublets their council property without permission.

Housing fraud means fewer council homes are available for those who really need them. It’s not fair and the council won’t stand for it.

Fraudsters are taken to court and the council usually wins – it recovers

around 100 properties each year and aims to recover profits made from illegal subletting.

Do you have information about housing fraud? Be fair, and help put a stop to it. Call any time on 020 7527 7432 or email housing.fraud@islington.gov.uk

Be safe and register your appliance

Register your appliances at www.registermyappliance.org.uk so manufacturers can contact you if a safety repair is needed.

islingtonlife.london

20

IslingtonLife

Health and wellbeing

Keeping well with

Putting Housing

community spirit

Christmas

Islington residents Sylvia and Sarah met through North London Cares’ Winter Wellbeing project

It is important to stay healthy all year round. But, when the weather is very cold people are more susceptible to becoming ill. This is especially true for people over 65 years of age, people with a long-term condition, like diabetes or heart disease, and people with a disability. If you live near older family members or neighbours, please check in on them to make sure they are coping with the cold weather. You can suggest these top tips to help them stay well: Don’t wait – if they feel Get the flu jab – if they like they are coming are over 65, they should down with something have the flu vaccine. It is don’t wait for it to get not live; they cannot get worse – speak to a pharmacist the flu by having it. Contact their GP before it gets serious, or call NHS practice to book.

111 to talk to advisors available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Keep warm – it is important to keep warm Plan ahead – make sure and heat their home to at they have any medication least 18C in winter. Find out they need during the how to stay warm without big bills Christmas period when on page 14. some surgeries and pharmacies will be closed.

Are you aged over 65 and would like some information on how to keep warm, active, connected and healthy this winter? North London Cares provides home visits in Islington to support residents to keep well in the winter months.

Visit www.northlondoncares.org.uk

First this As part of its efforts to combat homelessness in the borough, Islington Council is working with the charity Single Homeless Project (SHP) to pilot Housing First this winter.

Housing First has been shown to successfully support people with histories of repeat homelessness to remain in accommodation. The aim is to provide a stable home environment whilst supporting them to tackle other issues such as drug or alcohol addiction, or mental ill health – which we know can often cause or contribute to homelessness.

Michelle Pollock from SHP explains: “Housing is seen as a human right

by Housing First services. There are no conditions around ‘housing readiness’ before providing someone with a home – instead, secure housing is viewed as a stable platform from which other issues can be addressed.”

To find out more please visit www.islington.gov.uk/ roughsleeping

If you see someone living homeless on the streets and want to help, please contact StreetLink on www.streetlink.org.uk or call 0300 500 0914

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21

Health and wellbeing

Prepare for your New Year health kick Have you made New Year’s resolutions in the past and not been able to keep them?

We’ve all done it at one time or another, but there are ways you can set realistic goals and achieve them.

We speak to Islington’s Public Health team about the small changes that can go a long way to helping you feel better and healthier.

Tip 1: Set goals Think about setting realistic, time specific, achievable goals.

Something like, I will walk back from the shops on Saturday instead of taking the bus. And then build on that.

Tip 2: Have a plan Think about things that may crop up that might stop you progressing, and think about how you would deal with these.

Tip 3: Keep a diary Write down your activity or food intake.

How does it compare to the same the previous week? What small changes do you need to make in your day to help improve?

Tip 4: Get support It’s easier to succeed when you are not alone.

There are lots of free services in Islington to help you make changes to your health, like the Breathe Stop Smoking Service, which helped Colin (pictured) stop smoking after 50 years!

Visit www.oneyouislington.org to find out more. islingtonlife.london

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Winter 2018

23

Local life

Give the gift of giving this Christmas

John Nicholson, chair of trustees

Islington charity the Toy Project is looking for donations for its Grandparents’ Project, which will provide local grandparents in financial need with a new gift for their grandchild this Christmas.

Residents and local businesses can help by buying a new toy, still in its box, and donating it to the charity for it to give to a grandparent in need.

It is the first time the charity, which has a shop in Junction Road, Archway, has collected specifically for grandparents. Jane Garfield, founder, explains: “We had a couple of referrals last year for grandparents, so I thought there must be lots of other grandparents out there who can’t afford to buy for their grandchildren.

“It’s very important for grandparents to feel that they are providing for their grandchildren.”

Jane, a former teacher, set the Toy Project up five years ago and now works full time on it, donating thousands of toys to children in need in Islington and further afield.

The charity was quick to respond to the Grenfell fire by providing toys and equipment after a nursery was destroyed in the blaze. Meanwhile, it’s 100 Bunnies project sends knitted rabbits to children in hospital in India and every three months it sends books and toys to eight schools in Grenada.

John Nicholson, chair of trustees, says: “As well as helping to put a smile on a child’s face we’re also showing that instead of toys going into landfill and our oceans we can give them a new home. We are extending their life and that is a good thing.”

Local businesses and shops can also help by becoming a drop off point for donations. If you want to get involved visit www.thetoyproject.co.uk islingtonlife.london

24

IslingtonLife

Local life

Inspired by life and learning Islington A short story about a teacher’s experience of working with Islington adults is one of the winning finalists of a writing competition to mark the 25th anniversary of UNISON Learning and Organising Services.

inspired by the effort and dedication of my adult students and just how much I enjoy helping them to achieve their goals.”

“We have people from many different communities and backgrounds living in Islington and it is great to have so many of them wanting to get involved in learning with Islington ACL. “So, in my story, I wanted to get across how much I am moved and

Arsenal mark White Ribbon

‘A Teacher Prepares’ written by Colin Gardiner, an Islington Adult and Community Learning tutor, was praised by judges as being “told with real compassion and humanity.”

Colin said: “I’m very lucky to do a job that I really enjoy and one of the reason’s I enjoy it is because of the inspirational adult learners that I come into contact with every day.

Council and

Day Young people visited the Emirates Stadium in November to learn about domestic abuse and healthy relationships as part of the borough’s White Ribbon Day events.

Colin Gardiner

If you would like to enrol on an Islington ACL course, there are enrolment days on Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 January 2019.

You never know where it might end!

Find out more and read Colin’s story in full at www.adultlearning. islington.gov.uk

Attendees were given the opportunity to hear from and ask questions to members of Islington’s Youth Council, as well as local charities, such as Solace Women’s Aid and Abianda, who work with young women involved in gangs.

WHITE RIBBON STATUS

WHITE RIBBON UK OFFICIAL ACCREDITATION FOR UK ORGANISATIONS

New Arabic booklist N4 library in Finsbury Park is introducing an Arabic booklist chosen by local people. The booklist is the result of a project between the council and Multilingual Locals and Significant Geographies (MULOSIGE) hosted by SOAS (University of London). Thanks to everyone who took part and we hope you enjoy your reading!

The council was recently awarded official White Ribbon accreditation in recognition of its work, which includes funding support services for victims of domestic and sexual abuse, as well as enlisting male ambassadors from the organisation.

To find out more about how the council are tackling violence against women and girls, visit www.islington.gov.uk/vawg

Winter 2018

25

Local life

Reconnect with your community people to activities run by a wide range of organisations. There’s some fantastic things on offer!”

Rick has been supporting 80 yearold Issac Bamgbose, who was struggling to find something to do near his home in Caledonian ward.

Issac and Rick

Loneliness is something we can all feel at times, but for a growing number of people loneliness can start to have a serious effect on physical and mental health. The good news is support is available, like Age UK Islington’s Activity Partners, who help people access local activities in the borough.

Rick Taylor has been an Islington

Activity Partner for three years.

He says: “My role is to work with people who are more isolated, on a one-to-one basis, in order to find the right activities, based on what’s important to them.

“Going to groups can feel a bit daunting so I can also pop along to things with people. As well as Age UK Islington’s groups, I connect

Five ways to beat loneliness Learn something new. Taking up a new hobby is a great way to connect with people who share your interests. You could start with an Adult Community Learning course.

Visit www.adultlearning. islington.gov.uk Get online. If your friends and family live far away, stay in touch with emails, or free video chats using services like Skype. All of Islington’s libraries have computers that you can use for free and you can book a one-to-one session if you need a little help to get started.

Volunteer. Helping others can improve your mental health and wellbeing. For local volunteering opportunities, visit www.vai.org.uk Get into books. If you enjoy reading, you might enjoy being part of a book club, where you can also meet like-minded people.

Many of Islington’s libraries have book clubs, ask at the desk or search local groups at www.readinggroups.org/groups Meet people for tea. There are plenty of schemes around the borough, and if you feel daunted about going alone, you can always call an Activity Partner.

Isaac explains: “I was told about so many activities, like table tennis, indoor bowling, history talks and photography, and he introduced me to everything. I got to know more about what is local in Islington.

“Last year I went to an afternoon Christmas party. They have live entertainment, mince pies and coffee. I’ll be going this year too!”

Reduce your future worry Future Matters is a free service in Islington that provides information about end of life care planning. “It’s been enjoyable being able to talk about it. I know it’s a serious thing but it’s been a laugh,” said one local resident.

The service, provided by Age UK Islington and Gentle Dusk, can also help you write an advance care plan, which records your wishes and preferences for end of life care.

If you would like some support connecting to activities or with any other wellbeing challenge, call Age UK Islington 020 7281 6018. islingtonlife.london

IslingtonLife

26

Local life

Islington Guided Walks celebrate 30th anniversary The Mayor of Islington, Cllr Dave Poyser, and others enjoy the 30th anniversary walk

This year the Mayor of Islington’s official tour guides celebrate 30 years of bringing the borough’s remarkable history to life.

The guiding group was set up by Islington resident Anthony Weaver, also known as ‘Mr Clerkenwell’. In the early 1980s he began promoting Clerkenwell, at the southern end of the borough, as a place with visitor potential. By 1988, with support from Islington Council, he had organised a group of guides offering regular tours in the area and started a course to train people to become the Mayor’s official guides. The guides soon

realised that the whole borough has a fascinating history and the group became known as Clerkenwell & Islington Guides’ Association.

To mark its 30th anniversary the association has changed its name to friendlier-sounding Islington Guided Walks and hosted a special guided walk around Angel to raise funds for the Mayor’s charities – CARIS Islington, which offers bereavement counselling to adults and children and runs a cold weather shelter for homeless people, and the muchloved Freightliner’s Farm.

The walk raised almost £500 and highlighted some of 2018’s major

anniversaries, like the centenary of the end of the First World War and 100 years since some women won the vote. There was also a focus on some local anniversaries which have not had such widespread publicity, including the 200th anniversary of the completion of the Islington Tunnel on the Regent’s Canal. An added bonus was spotting one of the pixie doors that have begun popping up around the borough.

Find out more about walks and tours by Islington Guided Walks at www.islingtonguidedwalks.com

Winter 2018

27

Local life

Fancy trying a new activity?

Did you know there are more than 60 sports and other types of physical activity on offer in Islington at more than 100 clubs, leisure centres, parks, community centres and other venues? Here are just two sports that anyone could take up, regardless of their age or physical ability.

Running This is the most popular participative sport in England and in Islington, Highbury Fields is the go-to destination for it.

Highbury Fields parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9am. The event started in 2011 and on average has 300 people attend every week.

Everyone is welcome. You don’t have to run, you can jog and walk depending on your level of fitness, or you can volunteer to help on the day. There is also junior parkrun for 4-14 year-olds on Sunday mornings at 9am.

A new running session has started for women and girls age 14 and over, also in Highbury Fields on Thursdays at 11am (meet outside Highbury Leisure Centre 15 minutes beforehand). Again, all abilities are welcome.

There are also Mini Mermaid Running Club sessions in the borough. This

Highbury Fields parkrun volunteers

unique programme helps girls aged 7-11 build self-worth, confidence and resilience as they train for a local 5km run.

Table tennis You can play and improve your game whatever your age or ability at Highbury Table Tennis Club. Based at City of London Academy Highbury Grove, the club has a wide range of table tennis sessions for juniors, female players, drop-in and league

teams. It is open most Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday lunchtime throughout the year. So, whether you want to learn a new sport, keep fit, meet new people, practice with a friend, improve your existing ability or become a table tennis champion, this is the club for you!

Go to www.islington.gov.uk/active to find out about sport and activity in Islington, or search the Islington Directory at http://directory.islington.gov.uk

islingtonlife.london

28

IslingtonLife

What’s on

Raids, Rations and Rifles Christmas Pantos Buttons: A Cinderella Story at the King’s Head Theatre

Prepare for a cheeky concoction of toe-tapping musical numbers, side-splitting puns and jawdropping magic that’ll fill you with Christmas cheer into the New Year and beyond. Don’t miss out on the ultimate Christmas cracker of a show. www.kingsheadtheatre.com

Peter Pan at the Park Theatre

This exhibition at Islington Museum, in St. John Street, commemorates the centenary of the First World War, remembering those who served on the front line and exploring everyday life in Islington. It is free and running until Tuesday 15 January 2019.

Ice skate sessions at Sobell Sobell Leisure Centre is offering two ice skate sessions a day during the Christmas holidays. Sessions are from 10am-12noon and 1-3pm on the following dates: Monday 24 December Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Saturday 29 December Sunday 30 December Monday 31 December

The price for children and adultsis £5.50 per person, £4.50 for members and £3.50 for concessionary members. Skate hire is included in the price.

For further information, speak with a member of staff or visit www.better.org.uk/sobell

Filled with mermaids, pirates and fairies, lost boys and crocodiles, this is the stunning original story of the boy who could fly.

Alexander Vlahos, best known for playing Philippe, Duke of Orleans in Versailles and Mordred in BBC drama Merlin, stars as Captain Hook alongside exciting newcomer Nickcolia King-N’Da as Peter Pan. www.parktheatre.co.uk

Finding Santa at Little Angel Theatre

Ever wondered how letters for Santa Claus get to the North Pole? What if something went wrong along the way? And how will Santa’s elves make sure his mail is delivered on time? A comical adventure, aimed at children aged 3-8 years, full of quirky characters, where the audience will help decide how the story unfolds. www.littleangeltheatre.com

Contact us now

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Based in the heart of Islington, we have many years of experience delivering excellent print services to clients large and small.

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30

Parking vouchers

Ditch the paper, go virtual Did you know you can now buy virtual temporary parking vouchers for visitors instead of paper scratch cards? Visitor e-vouchers are linked to a vehicle number plate and have a number of benefits.

You can buy parking permits for your visitors at any time and they are ready to use immediately (or up to two days in advance).

Meaning you no longer have to wait for paper vouchers to be posted, or buy in bulk.

you buy – via app, online, call or text, and you can sign up to receive a reminder text when the voucher is running out. This means you can easily extend it if you need and avoid unnecessary parking fines.

You have more choice over how

Plus, reducing the use of paper

vouchers is also better for the environment.

Using visitor e-vouchers is one way we are transforming our services to make help make life easier. Find out more at www.islington.gov.uk/parking

ject1_Islington ad ad 05/09/2018 05/09/2018 13:02 13:02 Page Page 11 ject1_Islington

We aren’t yet able to offer the free Christmas parking vouchers via this system, so please use the paper ones below.

Your FREE local newspaper

News Letters Theatre Films Food

20182018 20182018 2018 27 2018 28 20182018 20182018 Free all day Free all day parking parking voucher valid voucher valid on: on: Thursday Friday

December 2018

December 2018

Valid all zones Valid all zones

Sport

Out every Friday islingtontribune.co.uk Tel: 020 7419 9000

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

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

Winter 2018

31

Christmas opening hours

Christmas opening hours Anti-social

Recycling and

behaviour line

rubbish collection

o2o 7527 7272 The ASB response team will operate the following hours: 24 December – 12noon-8pm 25 December – closed 31 December – 12noon-8pm On other days the service will run between 4pm and 2am on Sunday to Thursday nights, and 5pm to 4am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Contact Islington o2o 7527 2000 The festive opening hours are: 24 December – 9am-4pm 25 and 26 December – closed 27 and 28 December – 9am-4pm 29 and 30 December – closed 31 December – 9am-4pm 1 January – closed Open as usual from 2 January

Libraries All Islington libraries close at 1pm on 24 December and will reopen on 27 December. They will close at 5pm on 31 December and reopen on 2 January. Islington Museum is closed from 24 December to 3 January.

days There will be no collections on 25 December. Collections start again the following day and will be a day late with a Saturday catch up (31 December). There will be no collections on 1 January. Again, collections will start again the following day and be a day late with a Saturday catch up (5 January).

Normal service will resume on 7 January.

Parks The gates on all of our parks will remain unlocked from 24 December until 5pm on 27 December and again from 31 December until 5pm on 2 January. There will be no park keepers in attendance during these times and all sports areas will be open for free use. Parks are open as normal at all other times.

Leisure centres Check opening hours at www.better.org.uk

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

Registry office The registry office will be closed on 24 December until 2 January.

Appointment slots to register a death will be available between 9am and 3pm on 24, 27, 28 and 31 December. Go to www.islington. gov.uk/birth-death-marriage-andcitizenship/register-a-death to make an appointment.

Children’s centres Individual centres’ hours will vary.

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

Please recycle your tree, details on page 15.

islingtonlife.london