IslingtonLife winter 2022

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As our community continues to struggle with the cost of living crisis, the festive season offers us all a very welcome sense of hope and community that has sometimes felt in short supply this autumn.

The Chancellor’s decision to propose yet more cuts to public services – after more than 12 years of austerity – will mean the council faces significant budget challenges in the months and years ahead, coming after being forced to make £281 million of savings to our budget since 2010. It is inevitable that the Government’s decisions will impact on our borough, but our promise to you is that we will always focus our resources on those who need our help most, and continue to prioritise the vital local services that our community relies on.

I know that so many families, small businesses and charities are feeling very worried about the cost of living crisis we face. But it is in these difficult moments that I am always reminded of why I’m so proud to be leader of this borough –because Islington always comes together to give help to those who need it, when they need it most.

Our inspirational community and voluntary and charitable sector are pulling together – you can read more about their work and how you can play your part on p6-8. The council is stepping

up too – investing in dozens of community spaces where people can stay warm, have a cup of tea and chat to their neighbours, as well as providing much-needed financial support for our least well-off residents.

That’s part of our major campaign to respond to the cost of living emergency – with financial, energy and mental health help and support on offer if you’re really feeling the pinch. We’re here to help, and you can call 020 7527 8222, email heretohelp@islington. gov.uk or visit islington.gov.uk/ CostOfLiving to speak to one of our team.

As our small businesses face soaring energy bills and inflation, you can also help them this December if you’re able to by ditching another dull Amazon delivery and enjoying the fantastic array of shops on your doorstep. We are spoilt for choice in Islington, and we should all do everything we can to keep it that way. Check out our shop local guide on p10. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Chanukah or simply spending time with your family, I hope you have a restful, peaceful festive break, and if you need our help, you know where to find us.

Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz Leader of the council

News and events

Trees for Streets

Would you like a beautiful tree on the street outside your house? Through Islington Council’s partnership with Trees for Streets, you can sponsor the planting of trees on local streets and parks! For each tree sponsored between now and the end of March 2023, the Mayor of London will fund another planting in a priority location.

TreesForStreets.org/islington

Find out how we’re doing on housing

Read this year’s housing report to find out about the services we provide as landlords – from our successes, like getting 89% of repairs fixed first time, to how we are trying to do better, with investment into new phone systems to make reporting a repair more efficient. The full report is available to read online.

Islington.gov.uk/ HousingAnnualReport2022

Apply for a primary school place

The deadline to apply for a primary school place is fast approaching! We recommend submitting your online application by 12 January, in case there are any issues; the deadline is 15 January. For help with your application, email the school admissions team at admissions@islington.gov.uk Islington.gov.uk/ admissions

Celebrating exceptional Islington carers

Congratulations to all the social care workers, volunteers and community members who won awards at October’s Dignity in Care Awards, which demonstrated the quality of care provided by carers across the borough. Visit the Islington media website for the full list of winners.

Islington.media/news

Real London Living Wage increases

The London living wage has risen by 90 pence an hour to £11.95, as the cost of living rises. This represents an 8% increase and means that more than 4,000 workers (like Dionne Brooks, pictured), who are employed by the 283 businesses in Islington committed to the Living Wage, will see a pay increase.

Islington.gov.uk/ LondonLivingWage

News and events

The festive spirit

Islington menorah lighting

Come along to Islington Green on Sunday 18 December, 5.30–7pm TO celebrate the first night of Chanukah.

After the menorah lighting, join in singing traditional songs, take part in activities with the Jewish Museum and Little Angel Theatre – and feast on free latkes, doughnuts and hot chocolate! This event is free and open to all, whatever your faith.

JewishIslington.co.uk/ chanukah

Warm up those vocal chords and join St Mary’s classical choir on Sunday 11 December at 7pm for carols by candlelight. The church will also be running a 40-minute lunchtime carol service on Tuesday 13 December at 1pm and a Christmas Eve service for families at 4pm. Festive fancy dress welcome! Union Chapel will be putting on their annual Christmas carol service on Sunday 18 December at 7pm, telling the story of the birth of Jesus through poetry and prayer.

Islingtonlife.london/things-to-do

Christmas changes to bin collections

The council’s bin collection schedule will change for four weeks starting on Monday 26 December, to make sure everyone’s recycling and waste is picked up around the festivities.

After Christmas, the council will pick up your tree from street properties on your bin collection day, 3–14 January. You can also take your tree to drop-off points at Barnard Park (Charlotte Terrace), Elthorne Park, King’s Square Gardens, Rosemary Gardens (Balmes Road junction), Wray Park Crescent (Park End), Spa Fields, Tufnell Park (Campdale Road), Highbury Crescent (near the playground entrance) and Paradise Park (Lough Road/ MacKenzie Road entrance).

Please remember to do your bit for the environment by recycling your food waste when you’re making Christmas dinner!

Islington.gov.uk/Christmas

Blue Christmas

While Christmas is a joyful time for many, it can also be a time of sadness. Union Chapel is opening its doors on Wednesday 14 December at 6.30pm as a space for quiet reflection, prayer and mediciation. From 7pm, there will be a service including music, poetry and meditation.

unionchapel.org.uk

Christmas angels

We pay a visit to Age UK Islington, Islington Giving, Manor Gardens and The Toy Project to find out how they and the rest of Islington’s volunteers are gearing up to support people – this Christmas, and beyond

Spend any amount of time speaking to staff and volunteers in Islington’s voluntary and community groups, and one thing will become clear: they’re all part of an informal alliance, fuelled by a genuine desire to support the community. In these hard times, they’re not floundering; they’re galvanised.

“It builds on the camaraderie developed through the Covid crisis,” says Lisa Robinson, director of development and

communications at Islington Giving: a coalition of funders, residents and charity partners that supports local projects and organisations in Islington. “Our local voluntary groups work genuinely tirelessly to provide support for people as best they can. We are so lucky in Islington

to have such a connected, collaborative, vibrant voluntary sector. The fact that it’s needed is obviously disappointing in 2022 and in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but the fact that we are working together to provide that support is huge testament to the collaborative spirit we have in Islington.”

For Islington Giving, that means spotting a need –most recently for emergency financial help – and taking action. “The Crisis Appeal we’re running is a fund that we are distributing via local partners – places such as Help on Your Doorstep and Age UK Islington,” Lisa continues. “They will be giving local people grants, as well as support and advice, as they’re on the frontline.”

For Manor Gardens, it means opening up a warm, communal space where people can come for a

hot drink and a bowl of soup. “People can talk to other residents, or just sit down and read the paper. There’s a friendly atmosphere,” explains project lead Milena Rola. “We are open to everyone. If someone needs help, you can come here, and we will do what we can.” As well as a warm space, Manor Gardens runs regular weekly activities, such as conversation cafes, support groups and women’s groups. “We have coffee mornings every week, with a mix of regulars and new people. At the beginning, they were coming here to talk to staff, whereas now, people really talk to each other. We’re like a family: people get to know each other. It’s a hub.”

Since Covid, unfortunately, the need to create spaces for people to get together has only

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a network. That age group is left wanting.”

increased. Age UK Islington is also working hard to reach those who might be socially isolated or experiencing loneliness. “That’s an ongoing thing for us,” explains chief executive Sally Miller. “People are living longer and older people are more isolated. Children and grandchildren might move away, so they don’t necessarily have family in the area. Sometimes people don’t know what to do in that situation.” It’s not only elderly people, either – “it’s all older adults, which we count as aged 50-plus, and even those aged 30 to 50 have real isolation issues. If you don’t fit into the typical set-up of being married or having kids, you don’t have

One of the many services Age UK Islington provides to help tackle this is social prescribing. This involves GPs referring people who might be feeling low to a link worker. “They’ll ask you what you enjoy doing, then the link worker would look for organisations and activities taking place nearby that might help boost their mood and feel more positive,” Sally explains. Age UK also partners with The Toy Project, which runs Lego lunches for people aged 50plus at their playroom in Archway: a safe and calm space to enjoy building and socialising, plus a free lunch. “We cover the whole community, running play and community sessions practically every day of the week, free of charge,” explains business manager Lilly. “Activities range from baby singing and after school sessions, to Spanish, yoga and knitting. We run Lego therapy sessions for children with social and communication needs, too.”

The Toy Project also provides toys to children from vulnerable families, as well as schools, nurseries, hospitals, hospices

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and some overseas charities – and the Islington Christmas lights. If you picked up something from Santa at one of the recent events, it was likely kindly donated and wrapped by the Toy Project. “We work to make sure that play is

How you can help

accessible for everybody, and we achieve that through the recycling of toys.”

The benefits of this are threefold: toys are saved from landfill, benefitting the environment; people have access to decent

If you’re fortunate enough to have either time or money to support others, there’s plenty you can do to help. Volunteers are invaluable and all sorts of positions are available – just get in touch with any of the charities mentioned or contact Voluntary Action Islington: vai.org.uk

The Islington Giving Crisis Appeal is ongoing. To donate, visit: islingtongiving.org.uk Manor Gardens has also set up a special

toys at an affordable rate, through The Toy Project shop; and all the profits go to running the sessions described above.

“These things don’t biodegrade quickly – the Lego brick for example, is designed to be indestructible, because they don’t want it to break. The most eco-friendly way to have and use Lego is to reuse it consistently, which is what we do.” That’s one thing ticked off the Christmas shopping list.

appeal to help people through winter.

Donate: localgiving.org/MGWinterWellbeing

If you need help, call the Age UK Helpline free on 020 7281 6018, drop into Manor Gardens, or call the council helpline on: 020 7527 8222. For support from The Toy Project, ask your child’s teacher, social worker, GP or community worker to email donations@thetoyproject.co.uk to receive a referral form. For more info on support available, visit: islington.gov.uk/CostOfLiving

Cost of living

A warm welcome

5ways to avoid festive debt

1 Set a budget: be realistic about how much you can afford to spend. Write everything down to keep yourself on track and include hidden costs, like food, decorations and travel.

2 Keep paying your bills: factor your monthly bills, such as your mortgage or rent, into your Christmas budget.

As the cost of living emergency bites this winter, many people will sadly be forced to decide whether to pay to heat their homes, or eat. Enter Warm Community Spaces, a partnership between Islington Council and local community centres, that will shield people from the worst consequences of the crisis Working with Octopus Community Network, libraries and other spaces, the council has created a network of dozens of Warm Community Spaces, dotted across the borough’s neighbourhoods, offering respite and sanctuary in a familiar, welcoming setting, with no judgement.

The council is putting £50,000 into the scheme, providing grants to help the centres extend their opening hours, provide free activities and cover their energy bills.

As well as offering a place to be warm, enjoy some company, an activity and a hot drink, the centres can also direct people

to other kinds of support if they need it. “Our community centre is an anchor for many people in our area,” says Nathalie Renaud, director of Elizabeth House Community Centre in Highbury, one of the Warm Community Spaces. “It’s home to many activities, too: from IT training and a lunch club, to baby massage classes and a food hub. It is a welcoming place for everyone, and we work hard to adapt our services when it’s necessary.”

Information about each of the Warm Community Spaces, including location, opening times, facilities and what’s on, can be found at: Islington.gov. uk/WarmSpaces

3 Shop around: make sure you get the best deal. There are also plenty of ways you can spend time with your friends and family for free. Check out the IslingtonLife website to find out what’s on.

Islington.london/thingsto-do

4 Shop online: shopping online could make it easier for you to stick to your list and avoid those tempting impulse buys. Remember to keep it local, though!

myvirtualneighbourhood. com/islington

5 Borrow responsibly: resist the urge to spend unnecessarily – it’s better to live within your means than start the new year in financial difficulty. If you do need to borrow a little extra, speak to the Archway-based London Capital Credit Union for advice. Contact them via email at info@credit-union.coop or call on 020 7561 1786

credit-union.coop

Jobs and money

‘Tis the season to shop local

Islington is home to many small businesses that, like many households, are feeling the pressure – which is why now more than ever we need to get behind our local businesses by shopping locally. Luckily, we’re spoilt for choice with the array of small, independent businesses and markets here in Islington. To help you on your way, we asked the council’s team of town centre officers where they like to visit in the run up to Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa and New Year

over London you get from the top! Businesses will also be displaying beautiful lights for the festive season, so come along and visit, shop and explore what the Cally has to offer.

Imogen Tyndale on Finsbury Park

Finsbury Park has always been a lively corner of London and during the festive season, it offers even more. You’ll find diverse and delicious snacks, one-off fashion finds, and gifts for every fussy family member. From Finsbury Park station, turn down Stroud Green Road for some last-minute gifts. You could take your chances on a one-off gift at Shelter or Mind charity shops, stop by New Beacon Books, or buy something beautiful from the Pretty Shiny Shop.

After grabbing a coffee from Common Ground, make your way over to Fonthill Road to find the perfect party outfit for the season, and even get it tailored nearby at the FC Designer Collective. Have a moment's

Aileen Salfarlie on Caledonian Road

The Cally is such an interesting place to visit, with a vibrant array of shops. You can find everything you need, from beauty clinics such as SoFab London, to art galleries – be sure to pop into Large Glass, for contemporary Italian art. Caledonian Road is also home to sustainable fashion designer Woven Studio, which uses Fairtrade wool to make textiles,

and a great butcher and fishmonger, Halal Meat and Fish London. For those who fancy their chances as a spy, there’s ClueQuest escape room, while pottery and craft enthusiasts should head to The Trident Pottery. And, of course, the Cally is home to the majestic Clock Tower in Caledonian Park, so if you’re not too worn out from all that shopping, have a go at climbing the tower – it’s worth it for the stunning views

quiet and get a manicure at Mishi Sumaq or Le Salon 98, then take a stroll down Seven Sisters Road for some traditional Italian Christmas treats at Girasole Taste of Italy. At the end of the day, make sure you catch something at the Park Theatre or unwind at the Oak N4 wine shop.

Michael Calderbank on Nag’s Head Nag’s Head is such a friendly, colourful place to explore, perfect for all your essentials and seasonal extras. It’s home to Islington’s only department store, Selbys, as well as plenty of independent shops, street stalls, supermarkets and markets –and all within a short walk.

You’re particularly spoilt for choice when it comes to

Jobs and money

fresh food. Several of the street traders sell fruit and veg, then there are greengrocers with their own specialities, such as African and Afro-Caribbean produce and two Chinese supermarkets. Fresh fish shops and butchers add to the mix, while the dozens of cafes and

Trade, The Coffee Tree, and Look Mum No Hands! , as well everyday shops such as City Flora and Plants – an amazing newsagent and plant shop.

Be sure to stop by St Luke’s church for a free lunchtime concert, too – home to London

restaurants help create a nice, lively atmosphere, with cuisines and treats from around the world – great for taking a shopping break. Don’t forget to pick up or order your Christmas tree from Gibbo’s outside Selbys on your way home, too!

Mary-Anne Cooper on Old Street

If you want to enjoy a quieter alternative to Shoreditch, look no further than the west side of Old Street roundabout. With an array of independent shops and cafes, as well as rich heritage and beautiful architecture, this area has everything. Starting off on Old Street, you have a choice of great independent coffee shops and eateries, including

Symphony Orchestra’s musical education centre – before heading to Whitecross Street Market for a bite to eat.

The market, which has been there in one form or another for 400 years, offers cuisine from all around the world. Eat al fresco in Fortune Park or, if you’re feeling chilly, head to one of the restaurants on Whitecross – family-run Iskele is one of my favourites, offering fantastic meze, or if you’re in a more traditional mood, Kennedy’s Fish and Chips shop never disappoints.

Discover more on your doorstep: myvirtualneighbourhood. com

Community safety Black history all year round

Safe Havens: Sarah Armstrong, community safety officer at Islington Council

How Islington Council and local businesses are working together to keep people safe

to report incidents to the relevant people, or just be that friendly and familiar face when someone needs help to get home safely.

What has your role taught you about businesses in Islington?

Since 2020, the council’s Black History 365 team has been putting on free events about Black history and culture for audiences across the world. We spoke to the team to find out why it started – and the work that still needs to be done

Black history is world history. For all of us to understand where we are and how we got here, it’s so important that we view and understand history from the perspective of different races.

What’s the purpose of the Safe Havens scheme?

The Safe Havens scheme was designed to stop potentially serious incidents from escalating, to reassure people that there are places they can go to ask for help if anything happens when they’re out and about. It also gives us greater opportunities to find out about incidents that might otherwise go unreported.

How can businesses help support residents in Islington through the scheme?

Just by signing up to the scheme businesses are showing their community that they care – that they’ve got people’s backs. Businesses can provide safe spaces or support and encouragement

I’ve learned that businesses in Islington have been doing this kind of thing already, whether they are an official Safe Haven or not. We’ve heard so many examples of staff going out their way to support people – how they look out for their regulars and often notice things without having to be told. Businesses are already really invested in making the area safer and the response we have had so far has been overwhelmingly positive.

Nearly 200 businesses are Safe Havens in Islington –keep an eye out for the blue sticker. To find out more about the scheme or to sign up to be a Safe Haven, visit: Islington.gov.uk/SafeHavens

We’ve learnt how important it is to bring to the fore the lesser-known facts about Black history and culture. There is certainly a need to debunk misconceptions and address inequalities through learning, unlearning, and self-reflection, so that we are all better able to define what action is needed.

After the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, among countless others, systemic racism and inequality were further unmasked. The Black Lives Matter movement gripped the world. Islington Council accepted the call to action, setting out its priorities, principles and driving forward change. There’s still a lot of work to be done. We’ll continue to champion race equality on all levels: within the organisation, locally, nationally and internationally.

To learn more about the programme, visit: Islington.gov.uk/BH365

Community safety

Identifying domestic abuse

Winter and the run up to Christmas is a difficult time for many. The added emotional and financial strain – especially this year with the cost-of-living crisis – means sadly, there may be an increase in the number of instances of domestic abuse in Islington. But abuse can be difficult to identify, even when you’re the one experiencing it. Catherine Briody, head of youth and community services at Islington Council, tells us more about the work being done to tackle domestic abuse – and the behaviours to look out for

harassment of friends and family.

One in three women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. This is a shocking, heart-breaking fact and it must change.

Know the signs:

Emotional and psychological abuse, including being stopped from seeing family or friends.

Physical violence, including being strangled.

Unwanted sexual activity, such as rape or forced sexual acts. Your money being withheld or stolen from you. This includes being prevented from working.

Humiliation in front of others. This could be via insulting or mocking you, giving you the

silent treatment, name calling or yelling and swearing at you.

So-called ’honour-based’ violence, such as female genital mutilation (FGM), forced marriage or forced termination of pregnancy.

Coercive control. This is repeated acts or behaviours which make you feel controlled, scared, humiliated or frightened. For example, repeatedly putting you down or isolating you from your friends and family so you become dependent on the person abusing you.

Stalking and harassment

This could be unwanted contact in person or on social media, sending gifts, or

I’m proud to have worked with colleagues, local organisations and survivors to develop Islington’s Violence Against Women and Girls strategy 2021-2026, which sets out our commitment to effect meaningful, long-lasting change. We have achieved so much - supporting more women and girls who need support and protection and a range of excellent services for survivors and their families. But we know there’s more to do. Violence in our communities is a disease, and it affects us all. Together, we can find solutions. We are determined to work in collaboration with our partners and people with lived experience to do so.

If you are experiencing any form of violence, abuse, or intimidation, please don’t suffer in silence. Remember, always call 999 in an emergency.

For free and confidential support, contact Solace on 020 3795 5070 or email advocacy@ solacewomensaid.org.

If you are worried about your own behaviour, support is available. Visit: Islington.gov. uk/vawg

Cleaner, greener, healthier

Turning grey to green

Transforming Islington’s unused spaces into thriving green communities

plants and flowers encourage wildlife, which in turn improves biodiversity. The housing community gardening team has also provided advice to existing gardening groups and carried out sessions with younger people and in schools, such as bug box making workshops – inspiring the next generation to go green-fingered!

Why does creating green space matter?

As part of our effort to tackle the climate emergency, the council is working to reimagine Islington, making unloved corners more attractive or giving them a new use and providing a home for wildlife. These new cleaner and greener areas are safer and healthier, too – spaces where people can get together to sit and relax, and for children to play.

What’s Islington Council doing about it?

Earlier this year, the council launched the Islington Greener Together project, which helps residents, businesses and community groups turn unused areas in Islington into beautiful green spaces. From herb and spice gardens to mini orchards and parklets, there will be lots of exciting projects popping up across Islington. Artbox, for example – a local charity and art school for people with autism and learning difficulties – applied for a new ‘dye

garden’ which will allow them to grow plants to create ink to use in paint, lessening the need to buy paint in plastic bottles.

Thirty-eight community projects have been chosen, which the council will be creating and funding. Then, it’s over to local residents to look after them, with some helpful training from the council’s green experts. You’ll be able to see the first projects by spring.

It’s not just public spaces that the council is transforming. The housing community gardening team was set up earlier this year to improve council housing estates. The team of three has been busy working with residents to improve communal areas across the borough: from painting walls white to lighten up a small courtyard, to digging a large shrub bed in preparation for planting roses.

How is it making a difference? As well as making Islington’s communal areas greener, more pleasant places to be,

Use our carbon calculator to see what changes you can make to improve the environment and make a pledge. There are also lots of opportunities to join a local group and make a difference in your community. Find out more: TogetherGreener. islington.gov.uk/get-involved

Wildlife watch: robins

Easily recognised by its red chest, the robin is one of the nation’s favourite birds. They’re one of the tamest native birds, too, often coming up close to people gardening to see if they can catch a worm, earning them the nickname ‘the gardener’s friend’. Although we often associate robins with winter, they are one of the only birds to sing almost year-round!

Cleaner, greener, healthier

Best parks for… keeping active this winter

Winter may not be a time you’d naturally associate with parks, but it can be so refreshing to get out and about, go for a walk or take part in a free activity on a crisp winter’s day. It’s also great for your physical and mental wellbeing – so we say wrap up warm, enjoy the fresh air and make the most of Islington’s green spaces. Here are three of our top things to do in Islington parks, to get you started

Climb the Cally Park Clock Tower

You’ll need some stamina to climb the 170-plus steps up to the top – but the incredible views across London make all the effort worthwhile. Doesn’t sound like your cup of tea? How about a gardening session, have a ‘park cuppa’ with Age UK Islington, or sing your heart out with the Cally Park Choir. Visit the Cally Park website for the full range of events.

Volunteer

Our park rangers are busy year-round, keeping our parks in good shape – and help is always welcome. Activities include pruning, planting, weeding, or building bug hotels. No need to book: just turn up in some outdoor clothes, gloves, and sturdy shoes or boots. Our community ranger volunteering sessions happen at Cally Park, Whittington Park, New River Walk and Rosemary Gardens. Check

the council website for dates and times.

Join the RSPB Great Garden Bird Watch

January is when the RSPB Great Garden Bird Watch takes place – the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. This annual bird count provides essential information for the RSPB on bird populations and is a great way to relax outside in nature. The good news is, you don’t need a garden to take part – you just need an hour, your local park and, if you’re organised, a hot drink in a flask to keep those fingers warm!

To find out more about what's happening in Islington's parks and get involved, visit: Islington.gov.uk/parks

In conversation with… Mitch Fly, barber and mental health advocate

Owner of Fade Fabric on the unique role of barbers in encouraging young Black men to open up about their mental health

that we share with our clients. This motivated me to find out how I could contribute to my community in a positive way.

This initiative is something I am passionate about and it’s proving to be beneficial. It is about empowering key individuals within the community to really make a difference.

You recently completed the free mental health first aid training. What did it involve?

You’re part of the council’s Young Black Men and Mental Health initiative: a training scheme for barbers to help them be more aware of mental health issues and feel more confident when talking to their customers

about the challenges they face. What motivated you to take part?

As a barber, I speak to so many different people, from all walks of life, who tend to unpack while sitting in the chair. There is a unique relationship

The training involved groupbased learning, as well as reading. It was very impactful and insightful, and I have gained lots of knowledge about maintaining and looking after my own mental health. Being mindful of all the different kinds of challenges we face on a day-to-day basis and

the coping mechanisms you can use are tools that can be implemented to improve your own life, as well as used to help others.

I found the training absolutely amazing. I have already used the skills and implemented some of what I’ve learnt with my clients. It’s such a great tool for better communication. I would definitely recommend it – not only to barbers and hairdressers, but to everyone. I believe it would contribute to making our world a better place.

Why do you think hairdressers and barbers are uniquely positioned to support people?

I think what I and most people within our industry do, be it consciously or unconsciously, is create a space and environment that allows people to talk freely, without judgement. We are not only stylists; we can also be seen as a confidant, a mentor, an extended family member or a friend.

There is also a confidence that exudes when your hair is on point. When you look good, you feel good, and that definitely has an impact on how you show up in the world. I really believe that most of us with African heritage see the history of our hair as spiritual and cultural. I think that belief has carried on through the generations and is still with us today. In the Black community, hair and how it’s styled is almost a signature stamp. It represents who you are, so it’s our responsibility as the stylist

Health

to deliver. When we get it right, our clients walk out the chair feeling good.

Your work keeps you on your toes. What do you do for your mental health and wellbeing?

I deal with a variety of people on a daily basis, which opens me up to different ways of thinking and problem solving. We often end up having discussions and healthy debates, which I think challenges the way people think and brings to the surface misconceptions. It provides people with food for thought, in a safe environment. I also dance kizomba, which helps me unwind while keeping active, and attend the gym as much as I can.

Why is talking about mental health important?

As a Black man, especially in the environment I live in, ill mental health is stigmatised. It’s seen as a weakness and not something that is taken as seriously as it should be. I want to reinforce the idea that the term mental health should not be branded a negative thing. It should be embraced and focussed on just as much as physical health. Talking about mental health is also empowering. It shows a great understanding and awareness of self, and what needs to be done to try and keep a clear and positive mindset.

Find out more about the Young Black Men and Mental Health initiative on the council website: Islington.gov.uk/ BlackMensMentalHealth

4ways to stay well this winter

1

Eat well and keep active: cold, wet weather might make you think a cosy day on the sofa is in order, but small changes to your eating habits and keeping active is important – a brisk walk and fresh air can do wonders! For inspiration, check out our guide on p15. Free help is available to help you reach your goals in a way that is enjoyable and healthy.

OneYouIslington.org/topic/ manage-your-weight

2 Check your drinking: stressful times mean we can find ourselves drinking more alcohol. Next time you feel like a drink, why not swap for a non-alcoholic alternative? Even cutting back a small amount can give you more energy to do the things you care about.

LowerMyDrinking.com

3 Mind your mental health: long, dark nights and cold weather can impact your mood negatively. If you’re feeling low, there are plenty of local support services that can help.

islington.gov.uk/ mentalhealth

4 Get vaccinated: vaccines are the best way to prevent serious illness. Stay well and protect yourself with a flu vaccine and Covid booster, which are now available for residents aged 50-plus, pregnant women, carers and clinically vulnerable people.

Decent homes Home improvement

Latest developments

Each issue, we shine a light on the new homes being built in the borough. This time, Charles Simmons

House on Margery Estate

Twenty-five much-needed new homes, all for social rent, have been built on the Margery Estate in the south of the borough.

How Islington Council is dealing with damp – and what you can do to prevent damp at home

The challenge

With utility bills higher than ever and the increased cost of living, the thought of keeping warm this winter is something that is concerning many of us. However, some homes, especially older homes, may get damp as the weather gets colder if the heating is kept off.

What the council is doing

Islington Council has insulated the walls of nearly all suitable council properties and is now starting work to insulate council blocks that have solid walls. Insulation in the loft and walls helps to reduce condensation and in turn, damp.

How it helps

As well as reducing damp – which can damage your home and cause respiratory problems – insulation keeps

more heat inside your house, reducing the amount of heat you need to use and in turn, using less energy. This could reduce your energy costs and is good for the environment.

What you can do

If you do have the heating off, opening windows may seem like the last thing you should do, but ventilating your home helps to get rid of the moisture in the air, which reduces condensation that can cause damp. It actually helps your clothes dry quicker if you place them by a window that is very slightly open – even in cold weather, as the circulating air increases the drying time and removes humidity.

For more information, visit: Islington.gov.uk/ DampAndMould

All the homes have access to outside space – either private balconies or gardens and spacious rooms with good built-in storage. This is the case for all new homes that Islington Council builds. There is secure cycle storage for all the flats and the old playground on the estate has been redeveloped. A new community space and a commercial unit have also been provided.

The new homes will be ready to move into early next year.

For more information about upcoming developments, visit: islington.gov.uk/ HousingDevelopment

Decent homes

Creating communities: help for homeless people

In the last year, 20 homeless people in Islington have successfully found jobs and homes through the help of social enterprise Beam, in partnership with Islington Council. One of these people is Omolola, who lives in Islington with her two children. IslingtonLife finds out more about her story

In 2016, Alex Stephany became friends with a homeless man who regularly sat outside his local train station. Through chats over coffee, Alex learned that the man had been out of work for as long as he could remember – and became determined to find a way to help him. This sparked the idea for a Crowdfunder for homeless people – and Beam was born.

Beam supports homeless people and refugees into careers and homes, identifying what each person needs and fundraising the cost. Beams works with companies including Arriva, Bupa and Pret, and helps them fill job vacancies by matching suitable candidates for roles. The council’s housing team, as well as charities like Shelter and St Mungo’s, refer people to Beam for help. “Beam is using technology to empower the most disadvantaged people in our society,” says cofounder and COO Seb Barker. “We give people an online support network and all the tools they need to accelerate their journey into stable work or housing.”

Omolola is just one of the people who have been helped to get back on their feet. When Islington Council referred Omolola to Beam, she had already applied for more than

100 jobs. Omolola is currently living with relatives, but the home is overcrowded, and she’s determined to have her own home with space for her children.

Earlier this year, she was referred to Beam to help achieve this through finding a job so she can eventually rent her own place. Beam helped Omolola write her CV and prepare for interviews and set up fundraising to cover her expenses, including safeguarding training, clothes for her interview and work, and paying for some of her travel expenses to attend interviews.

In the space of a few weeks, Omolola successfully found a job.

“I have been offered the job as a healthcare assistant in a care home. I love chatting to people and helping meet their needs,” says Omolola. “I'm totally lost for words at the overwhelming support and generosity I have received. I appreciate all the support you have provided me with on this journey into work.”

To find out more about Beam’s work and to donate to help a homeless person get back on their feet, visit: beam.org

Alex Stephany, founder of Beam

Children and young people Spotlight on… Andover youth centre

Staff member Lizzie Kennedy on what to expect from the new youth space in the Andover Community Centre

you need somebody that’s a bit tough doing this work.

Who is the centre for?

said how nice it is to mix with other children from different areas.

What does it offer?

What brought you to Andover Youth Centre?

I live on the estate and I’ve been volunteering as a youth worker here for about eight years. Before now we never really had a youth space of our own, it was always other organisations coming in and I would help them run things. When Manor Gardens won the bid for this place, they asked to have a meeting with me and gave me the job. The kids call me a corporate sergeant! But

It’s a lovely community youth space and that’s who it should be for, the community. The younger people needed it, it will be so beneficial. We’re open for 11to 14-year-olds. Anyone can come in, you just have to sign paperwork and I need a contact number for a parent or carer, so they’re aware their children are here. We’ve had kids coming from all over, not just from the estate, which is a positive thing. I’ve heard some of the kids have conversations about people’s opinions of them as young men and women, because they do carry a lot of stigma, but at the centre it doesn’t matter where you live. They’re making friends, which builds their morale, and they’ve

In youth work you can set up a million different things but if they don’t want to do it, there’s no point, so you need to be on your toes. It’s not like being at school, it’s looser – we want to give them choice, so we work with the young people to plan activities together. The main hall is being used for snooker, table tennis, PlayStation. We have girls’ and boys’ groups, where they can come and talk about anything. In one of the girl groups recently they made jewellery and had a chat about the issues affecting them. We’ve done smoothie-making, Bingo, film nights. It’s about what suits them. They want to do a podcast – I can’t wait to hear it.

We also do a free meal here every night we are open – we need to, the kids are coming in hungry – and make extras for them to take home for their families. We’re trying to get washing machines and tumble driers put here so they can wash uniforms and things like that.

What are your hopes for the future?

I want the space to open every evening and to expand it to be open to older and even younger kids. I want the children to travel, experience different things, and join up with some of the other youth clubs in the area.

To find out more about youth clubs in Islington, visit: Islington.gov.uk/YoungPeople

Children and young people

Family matters: after-school childcare

The council funds schools and voluntary organisations to subsidise the cost of after-school childcare for four to 11-year-olds from low-income families – including Montem Primary School. We spoke to headteacher Damien Parrott and extended school lead Sabrina Thomas to find out how it’s making a difference

Tell us about the after-school childcare offer at Montem. Sabrina: It’s a friendly, welcoming and inclusive place for children to make friends and learn new things. They can get involved in all sorts of activities: from dancing, gardening and sports, to crafts and board games. We also provide healthy food such as fresh fruit and vegetables, bagels with cheese, and milk.

Damien: The extra funding has enabled us to increase the number of places available, including some free spaces and discounted rates for those on the lowest incomes.

How does it benefit children?

S: It’s a nice opportunity for children to socialise with others of different ages. Some children use the time to do their homework. The older children, along with support staff, help the younger ones, which is important for children whose parents have English as a second language or don’t have the space to study at home.

D: Some of our children are from deprived backgrounds; we offer opportunities they may not get at home. Our consistent team of staff means the children can build secure, trusted relationships with adults, so they have someone to talk to about whatever is going on in their lives.

What do parents get out of it?

S: They are freed up to get into employment or education, or move from part to full-time hours – all because they can access childcare. We also provide a light meal, which takes the pressure off. The staff have great relationships with the parents, so many think of this place as an extended support network and important part of their community.

Speak to your school to find out more about their after-school childcare provision, or contact the Family Information Service on 020 7527 5959 by email fis@islington.gov.uk or visit: Islington.gov.uk/fis

Shooting stars

In each issue, we give a shout out to a young person in Islington who has excelled themselves or is making a positive difference in their comunity. This time: Areeb Ahmed, one of 14 new youth councillors elected in November

“It feels like a great achievement to be elected. I wasn’t expecting it, but now I’m looking forward to supporting Islington’s young people and to raising awareness of the link between getting enough sleep and rest and how that can improve mental health and wellbeing, which was what my election campaign was all about.”

For more about the Youth Council and services and support for young people visit: izzy-info.com

Local life Equality act

More than 6,000 of you took part in Let’s Talk Islington, the council’s biggest-ever engagement project. We reflect on Let’s Talk, and what’s next in the fight to make Islington a more equal place

children learnt meant that those who are less confident with their English weren’t counted out. Their perspectives, which are not often considered, have been insightful, practical and in some cases, immediately actionable.”

“I started by thinking, how do LGBTQ+ people feel? Is the public space welcoming? Then, listening to people’s experiences, I realised there’s something bigger happening,” reflects Antonio Messini, one of the participants of Let’s Talk Islington. “The cost of living is up and businesses are struggling. This is not just affecting the high street – it’s affecting LGBTQ+ businesses and we are losing spaces of representation,” Antonio continues. “I tried to collect as much information as I could to understand this issue, but also to work with local initiatives to fight back.”

Antonio’s words get to the heart of what Let’s Talk Islington was all about; listening to real people’s experiences, to get a true picture of what life in this gloriously

diverse borough is really like – and how we might go about changing it for the better.

Conversations took place with communities across the borough, in the form of workshops, lunch clubs, and sessions in schools, to help lesser heard-from groups open up about their experiences in a meaningful way. Year six children in some primary schools, for example, took part in lunch clubs, where they learnt about anthropology as a way to describe their experiences of the world around them. “This is just one example of how Let’s Talk has been transformative,” says Dr Kelly Fagan Robinson, social anthropologist and member of the Islington Inequality Taskforce. “The visual approaches the

From 8 to 11 November, the council hosted a public exhibition at Candid Arts Trust, to showcase some of the stories collected over the last year, and held special events, such as a dedicated LGBTQ+ evening and film screening.

But the conversation isn’t over yet. The team is working hard to analyse all your feedback and ideas. They want to come up with solutions to some of the challenges raised, with the help of local people. In early 2023, a plan will be published outlining aspirations for how we will make Islington a more equal place to live. Watch this space.

For more information on Let’s Talk Islington, including an outline of all the findings, head to the website: islington. gov.uk/LetsTalk