Henleaze & Westbury Voice June 2022 by Emma Cooper

henleaze&westburyvoice www.henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk

June, 2022 Issue 90

FREE EVERY MONTH IN HENLEAZE, WESTBURY-ON-TRYM & WESTBURY PARK Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees at the referendum count, which resulted in a decision to axe his role

Cricket club hosts Eid celebration An Eid celebration was held on the pitch at Gloucestershire cricket ground for the first time in the club's history. PAGE 11

Hundreds object to £85m scheme

City takes a new direction THE city council’s Labour group has promised to help make the committee system work after last month's momentous referendum result to scrap Bristol’s mayor. Residents voted by 59 per cent to 41 per cent to abolish the position from 2024 and instead give groups of councillors the

power to make decisions. A cross-party working group is now being set up to thrash out the details, with main opposition Green group leader Cllr Heather Mack saying there had been an encouraging start as representatives from different parties were already agreeing on

most issues. Labour and Greens each have 24 councillors on Bristol City Council but under the mayoral model, current office holder Marvin Rees has sole say on cabinet positions and has filled them all with members of his Turn to Page 3

Hundreds of residents have submitted objections to Bristol City Council over the £85m planned redevelopment of the former St Christopher's School. PAGE 5

Bristol Free School is Good - Ofsted Bristol Free School is delighted that Ofsted has recognised its strengths and its rapid improvement over the last four years. PAGE 19

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June, 2022

Care staff in strike vote CARERS who work for St Monica’s Trust have indicated they’ll vote for strike action over new contracts and conditions. A formal vote began last month and was expected to last three weeks. The dispute affects John Wills House and Garden House in Westbury on Trym and two other homes outside Bristol. Union representatives from Unison say the Trust’s proposals would leave staff up to £300 worse off as hourly rates for working evenings and weekends would be severely cut. Sick pay would also be reduced. Staff have been told that if they do not accept the new conditions they would be dismissed and offered new inferior contracts This has led to a union claim that they would be “fired and re-hired”. Unison says proposed changes to shift times will also be devastating to some staff with caring responsibilities.

A spokesman for the St Monica Trust said that description of the planned contract changes was something they did not agree with. “The threat of “fire and rehire”, is not a term that we would recognise as being a part of the wider consultation process, which the St Monica Trust is legally bound to follow,” said David Williams, the chief executive of the St Monica Trust. “The proposals that are currently under consideration aim to deliver consistency in the ways of working across all of the Trust’s care homes, improve recruitment and attract new workers into the social care sector. This will also help fulfil our ongoing commitment for the St Monica Trust to be a real living wage employer, while offering a package of enhancements that exceed the industry standards for the health and social care sector.”

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July deadline Our July edition deadline is June 15. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

Your views

Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Henleaze & Westbury Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

Green grants on offer

BRISTOL community groups taking climate action or supporting nature recovery can apply for council funding to help reach the city’s climate and ecological goals. Bristol’s One City approach has defined goals for climate and ecology recovery, and from local groups that can help reach these targets could bid for financial support from a £200,000 fund. The grants are for community groups, small organisations working on a not-for-profit basis and small charities based and working in Bristol. Groups can apply for up to £5,000 in the first round, with a second call in the autumn where groups can apply for up to £30,000. The fund supports activities based in Bristol that will help the city to meet one or more of the goals of the One City Climate Strategy - to reduce Bristol’s carbon dioxide emissions or the One City Ecological Emergency Strategy - to have more land in Bristol managed for the benefit of wildlife Applications are open until 23 June on the Quartet Community Foundation website.

Useful numbers Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0344 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999

NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Henleaze & Westbury Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Henleaze & Westbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Henleaze & Westbury Voice is distributed each month to residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or sales@henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk This month 8,500 copies will be distributed around Henleaze, Westbury Park and Westbury-on-Trym.

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June, 2022

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Committee system wins From Page 1 own Labour party. The referendum was triggered when a legally binding Lib Dem motion backed by the Greens, received support from the other opposition groups – the Conservatives and Knowle Community Party – at a full council meeting in December, while Labour voted against. That response along party lines was mirrored in the campaign ahead of the city-wide poll on Thursday, May 5. The result means the political groups now have two years to work together with officers and other experts to determine the new system where full council will continue to set the budget and make some major decisions while delegating most other powers to committees, such as housing, education and adult social care. Cllr Steve Pearce, leader of the Labour group, which wanted to retain the mayoral model arguing that the committee system removed the public’s right to vote for their city’s leader, said: “However, we recognise and accept the result. We’re of course disappointed by it, but we have a duty to make the committee system work. “We’re setting up a crossparty working group to draft a new, committee-based constitution, where we hope to have constructive conversations

with other parties. “We may be reverting to an old form of governance, but this doesn’t mean we’ll undo the progress we’ve made. We have a mandate to lead the city until 2024 and we’ll carry on with the job we were elected to do. “We’re building an unprecedented number of affordable homes, including the largest council housing scheme in a generation, are investing massively in clean energy and are on track to be net zero by 2030 – among many other things. “This result won’t be a distraction from our work to deliver on Bristolians’ priorities.” After the vote was announced in the early hours of May 6, Mr Rees said the referendum was a “distraction” from the myriad crises facing the city but that it would not stop his administration continuing to deliver on its goals. He denied that the result was a reflection on his leadership because he had already said he would be stepping down at the end of his second term, which he will see out until 2024, and that he hoped his fears about the committee system would not be realised. Cllr Mack, for the Green Party, told BBC1’s Politics West on Sunday May 8: “I have already reached out to the other party group leaders and we are finding loads to collaborate on, loads to agree on already, so this is a step towards that more collaborative and more democratic way of working in Bristol.” Asked how concerns would be overcome about the committee set-up creating logjams in decision making, she said:

“It’s about being able to work together. I spoke to the other party group leaders within 12 hours of the result and we found more to collaborate on and more to agree on than we had before. “This is already helping us along the way. I really feel that taking more time and making really good decisions for the city is far more important than making quick decisions that are the wrong decisions, such as the arena. “It will be about working with

other parties. We want to get the city moving. There are transport issues across the city, we want better sustainable transport, we want people to get around. “We also want to seriously and speedily respond to the climate emergency. We are not doing that, we are not on track for 2030 carbon neutrality and we really need to get moving.” By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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June, 2022

Lord Mayor celebrates 50th anniversary of Westbury on Trym Society THE Westbury on Trym Society began its life as a group saving the Victorian village hall from destruction in 1970. Later it was inaugurated as one of the first conservation societies in Bristol in 1972 – and that’s what the Lord Mayor Cllr Steve Smith and Lady Mayoress, his wife Catherine, commemorated in a recent reception. The Lady Mayoress was invited to cut the 50th birthday cake, which featured miniature flower pots in celebration of the Society’s flower displays since 1982 and Westbury’s contribution to ‘Bristol in Bloom’. The Lord Mayor then raised a toast to Westbury on Trym. “The Society was thrilled to host the Lord and Lady Mayoress following our 50th Annual General Meeting”, said Hilary Long, the current chairman.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Steve Smith, and Lady Mayoress Catherine, with society members

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June, 2022

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Groups invited to use space INDOOR and outdoor space is being offered for community groups, arts organisations, and charities at the former St Christopher’s School in Westbury Park. The team behind the planned redevelopment of the school and its five-acre site, bordering The Downs off Westbury Park Road, say that the school hall and gardens are being made available for use throughout the day or evening for the next twelve months and are ideal for arts, cultural, and environmental activities and events. number of areas suitable for small or larger Luke Martin, from Socius, one of the groups, with access to facilities. organisations involved in the £85 million Performance group Mechanimal and project, said: “The site has been closed to First Redland Scouts will use the hall when the public and hidden behind a wall for the vaccination hub closes, and Circomedia many years. We have already started to and a yoga class are also intending to use open up the site and make it part of the the outdoor space in the summer, but there wider community. We want to continue are opportunities for other groups and this.” charities to use the space too. Currently, the site is providing Luke Martin said: “We are pleased to temporary affordable accommodation for be able to invite in local groups to make use 90 people living onsite as guardians, and is of the existing facilities that are currently home to a Covid-19 vaccination centre for sitting empty.” Whiteladies Medical Centre. If you are interested in finding out The old school hall can hold up to 80 more, please email the team at feedback@ people seated and has a stage area and stchristophersbristol.com bathroom there are1a 25/04/2022 Abb Bish facilities. Voice ad Outside AW.qxp_Layout 10:18 Page 1

Hundreds raise concerns over redevelopment bid HUNDREDS of objections have been submitted to Bristol City Council over the planned redevelopment of the former St Christopher's School in Westbury Park. On May 17, a day before public comments were due to close, there were 632 documents relating to the proposals to create a retirement community of 122 homes. The majority of respondents were against the scale of the proposed £85 million scheme, which has been extensively reported in the Voice over recent months. Concerns have been raised about the changes to the Grade 11 listed Grace House, the height of the proposed blocks of flats and their impact on the conservation area. The three ward councillors, Geoff Gollop, Steve Smith and Sharon Scott have cited “significant concerns” over parking and traffic issues. A number of groups, including Westbury Bristol Civic Society, Westbury Park Community Association and St Christopher's Action Network have also objected. It is not yet known when the proposals will go before the council's planning committee. Letter: Page 21

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Have you had your council tax rebate yet? MANY people living in the Bishopston area will have received the £150 council tax rebate by now as part of the government’s initiative to help households with rising energy costs. The scheme, announced by the Chancellor earlier this year, provides a one-off payment of £150 to most households living in homes in council tax bands A to D. Residents have also been warned about not falling foul to tax rebate telephone scams seen in other parts of the country. The council has confirmed it will not be telephoning people to ask for their bank details in relation to the rebate. Most residents who pay their council tax by direct debit were due to receive the money directly into their bank account by Monday 16 May and to receive

a letter confirming details of this payment. What if you don’t pay your council tax by Direct Debit? An online form is available on the Bristol City Council website for non-direct debit payers to submit their bank details. There will be an option on the form for households to choose to have the £150 credited to their council tax account if they prefer. A service will also be made available to help those who are not able to access the online form. If anyone who pays by direct debit did not receive their payment by 16 May, they should also complete this online form. Bank details submitted on the form will only be used for the rebate and not future payments of council tax, unless the household requests this.

Additional help Bristol has also been allocated a discretionary fund as part of the scheme to help residents considered to be most in need of support. This will support households living in Bristol in bands E to H who are in need or as well as those in bands A to D who are not eligible for the council tax rebate. Only one application can be made per household. Residents will need to apply using an online application form and will be asked to provide evidence, including council tax account number, photo ID and proof of address, to support the information provided in the application. Eligibility criteria will include that the person must be living within the Bristol City Council area as their main residence from Friday 1 April

2022 and they pay their energy costs directly to the energy supplier by bill or pre-payment meter, not as part of their rent. The process for the discretionary fund is being finalised and further information, including the full eligibility criteria and exclusions, will be provided on the Bristol City Council website. The council says it is conscious that some households may not feel they need the council tax rebate and will be offering a scheme that enables people to donate all or part of it to help support those who are most in need in the city. Some residents have already shown an interest. To find out more, email counciltaxforms@ bristol.gov.uk.It will not affect the provision of the rebate but will enable them to make a direct donation to local crisis funding.

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Looking forward to a greener Southmead A REVAMP of the shopping centre in Southmead is aimed at securing a greener and more sustainable future for the high street. Local people have helped to design improvements to make Arnside Road a more attractive, safer and eco-friendly place to visit. The area has been updated, with new pavements, kerbs and walkways, new cycle stands and bollards, street planting beds to help natural drainage and increase biodiversity, and new car parking areas on Greystoke Avenue. Large 'sustainable urban drainage' trenches have been dug on both sides of Arnside Road. This is the first time ‘Stockholm’ tree pits have been built in Bristol and means Arnside now has an avenue of trees as well as a system to help reduce flood risks for homes in the area. There is also ‘raingarden’ planting along each side of the road. Alongside these improvements, eight sustainable

Lord Mayor Steve Smith officially opens the revamped Arnside Road drainage pods have been constructed and planted in the roads to the north of Arnside Road. These will help to hold back rainwater and reduce flooding downstream as well as bringing colour and nature into the local streets. The work on Arnside is

the first step in delivering the Southmead Masterplan. This includes current proposals to sell council land to Aldi to enable them to deliver a larger, improved store, subject to planning approval. The expansion will secure the longterm future of this anchor store

and in turn the future of the Arnside Road shopping area. This will mean relocating services that take place in the youth centre to newly refurbished space at the Ranch – Southmead Adventure Playground. Southmead Library will also be moved – firstly t0 a temporary space at Southmead House before a new home is created for it as part of future development in the area. The new look Arnside was officially opened by Lord Mayor of Bristol Councillor Steve Smith. The public realm improvements were made with support from a £3.6 million Housing Infrastructure Fund grant from Homes England, and work to install the drainage system was supported by funding from Wessex Water. Amy Kinnear, CEO of Southmead Development Trust, said: “We’re delighted to see the works complete and the boost this will give to the much loved Arnside shopping area. "

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I'll see you in my dreams

Lifelong Gashead IAN PROBERT is still in a daze after watching Bristol Rovers pull off a 7-0 miracle at the Memorial Stadium. He reckons his lucky boxer shorts made the difference. SO Rovers snatched promotion during the last five minutes of the final, crazy, surreal and utterly bonkers game of the season. It was, to misquote one notorious TV football pundit, unbelievable, Joey. The 9,500 Gasheads who manage to get tickets at a soldout Mem witnessed what’s being hailed worldwide as the greatest turnaround in football history. Days later, many of us are still trying to make sense of as absurd a game as you’ll ever see. Here's how it unfolded: All - all - Rovers have to do to clinch automatic promotion to Division One against lowly Scunthorpe is to win by five goals more than Northampton, who are at Barrow. Oh, and have I

mentioned that as late as New Year, Rovers were in 17th place in the league? Along with friend Simon and his teenage son Alfie, I have managed to get one of the last remaining tickets, for the open terrace normally reserved for away fans. Long before 3pm, the terrace is packed with fellow Gasheads, many clad in blue and white shirts and basking in afternoon sunshine. Across the other side of the stadium I can just make out mates fortunate to have tickets for our regular patch in the West Enclosure. ‘We’ll be easy to spot,’ they quip smugly, ‘We’ll be wearing Rovers shirts.’ I’m not superstitious but I’m wearing the lucky blue boxer shorts I’ve worn to every game

since January. I’ve yet to see Rovers lose since then, so the result is never in (much) doubt. A good hour before kick-off, Rovers’ anthem Goodnight Irene rings out from all corners of the Mem, loud enough to be heard in far-off Redland. But early signs aren’t good and home fans can’t help becoming slightly muted as they learn Northampton lead 3-1 at half-time. The Gas lead 2-0

but now have to score a hugely improbable total of seven goals without reply. That is something they’ve not done since 1964 – about as likely as a three-legged Weston donkey winning the Grand National. All around me, anxious fans spend almost as much time checking phones to track the score at Barrow as they do watching the game unfold in front of them. Amazingly, after the break, Rovers go on a five-goal spree but not until Aaron Collins scores the sixth on 79 minutes do I dare let hope give way to expectation. Then, with five minutes remaining, Elliot Anderson pops up to head the seventh. An influx of fans on to the pitch prompts the referee to threaten to abandon the game and it seems an age before the game resumes. And come the final whistle, more pandemonium. Goodnight Irene gives way to chants of ‘We Are Going Up’ as blue smoke

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• Rovers were in 22nd place in September, with two wins and five losses from their first eight matches Jubilant fans celebrated on the pitch after the historic victory and hoisted manager Joey Barton aloft fills the sky. Thousands of fans (some of us old enough to know better) charge on to the pitch in celebration and hoist manager Joey Barton and players on to shoulders. Close by, a mum is in tears and at pitchside Aaron Collins weeps in joy as he is embraced by his family. He kindly breaks off to sign Alfie’s Rovers shirt. Collins cements his place in Gas lore when he is seen hours later still in full kit and beer in hand, atop a traffic light outside the Royal Oak. You don’t get that in

• No club across all four divisions won more points (54) than Rovers since New Year’s Day • Striker Aaron Collins did not score until November 24, but ended the season with 17 goals

the Premiership. Gloucester Road is brought to a standstill as Gasheads empty from the Mem to celebrate. The destination for me and friends is The Annexe for a pint or three and a lengthy evening of increasingly incoherent postmatch analysis. A crazy, unforgettable day and a barmy result, certainly and still unbelievable, Joey. • The author has been going to Rovers games since 1969. His partner and their daughter suspect he needs help.

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Historic first at Eid is celebrated at cricket HQ FAMILIES from across the city descended on Gloucestershire Cricket’s ground for a mass Eid celebration. Prayers to mark the end of Ramadan for prayers took place on the outfield in a unifying observance of one of the most significant celebrations in the Muslim calendar. Thirty to forty minutes of morning prayers were led by the Imam on the cricket pitch, a symbolic event that ended with refreshments for the 900 who attended. The Eid celebration was the first time Gloucestershire has held an Eid event at its home ground in the club's 152-year history. Eid al-Fitr, which is its full name, marks the end of Ramadan - the Muslim holy month of fasting from dawn to sunset, a time for spiritual reflection and prayer. The Eid celebrations are therefore about accomplishment, as well as joy and sense of goodwill to all.

Prayers on the pitch at GCCC In a previous week, Glos players Naseem Shah and Zafar Gohar were invited to the Grand Iftar on St Mark's Road, Easton. The occasion is held to allow people who fast for Ramadan to come together for their evening meal - also know as an 'iftar' and celebrate the breaking of fast. Eid Mubarak is the traditional greeting used at Eid celebrations and means “blessed Eid” or

“Happy Eid”. Shahid Akram, events coordinator at the Bristol Muslim Cultural Society, said: "It was truly an honour to have the opportunity of working with Glos at their beautiful stadium for our end of the month Ramadan gathering. Eid Ul-Fitr prayers were arranged outdoors on the green as is recommended within the teachings of Islam. "The venue as well as the

prayers were thoroughly enjoyed by all those who attended and was followed by a lovely cup of tea in the pavilion. Feedback has been nothing short of wonderful so thanks to all who arranged this and worked hard behind the scenes, including the local residents, for providing such a warm welcome." Pete Lamb, head of community at Glos Cricket, added: “Eid is so important to so many people in Bristol and it was a pleasure to provide our Muslim community a venue where families could come and celebrate the end of Ramadan. "We’re striving to develop and strengthen relationships right across the county and we’re fully committed to supporting and including everyone in our local community. "I'd like to thank everyone who came along and hope Eid was enjoyed by all who celebrated in Gloucestershire and around the world."

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Your chance to explore community orchard AFTER a three-year pause, the Midsummer Orchard Open Day returns to Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO). Members are thrilled to invite orchard lovers to one of Bristol’s fruiting gems on Saturday 18 June. All are welcome to enjoy an afternoon exploring this pioneering community orchard. Set up in 1998, HOCO aims to inspire fruit growing as a way to grow community, wellbeing, and local, sustainable food. The desire for more of these good things has grown over the years – as have the trees. Climate change effects have become more troublesome during this time too with water stress now affecting the trees. “People may be surprised to learn that climate chaos is affecting us now”, says orchard learning coordinator, Shannon Smith. “Drought, heat waves, and high winds cause water stress for the fruit trees. Distressed trees are more vulnerable to

diseases, pests and other problems that reduce harvests. When the orchard was established on the boundary edge of a former grazing field nobody imagined we’d be watering established trees 20 years later - but here we are. We are also mega mulching and

experimenting with water capture projects in the Home Orchard Plot.” Orchard members will be on hand to chat about changes in the orchard over the past few years and to answer fruit growing questions. The open day raises funds for the orchard through the sale of homemade cake, refreshments, plants, preserves and produce. Visitors are also invited to show their support for HOCO by joining the orchard as a Friend. To explore the orchard you first have to find it. The nearest postcode is BS7 8JP - Walk down the lane beside 22 Kings Drive (between Bishop Road & Kellaway Avenue), turn left and it’s the first gate on the right. OR Take the lane beside 134 Longmead Avenue (BS7 8QQ) until you come to the last gate on the left. It’s a treasure hunt that’s worth the effort. Midsummer Orchard Open Day Saturday 18 June, 2-5pm www. community-orchard.org.uk

n NEWS IN BRIEF

A WORLD OF

Quality

n A litter pick on Glencoyne Square in Southmead is to take place on Saturday 11th June. It’s a joint venture between the Explorer Scout Unit and the local Oxfam fundraisining group. As well as keeping the place tidy the money raised will go towards Ukraine charities. Here is the fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/oxfambristolfundraising

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n Join New Bristol Sinfonia for a summer's evening of beautiful music on Saturday June 18. The concert takes place at Redland Hall, Redmaids' High School, starting at 7.30pm. The conductor is Matt Scott Rogers and the leader is Mark ArrudaBunker. The programme begins with Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture, followed by. Schumann's Symphony No. 4 in D minor and Brahms's Symphony No. 3 in F major Tickets https://www.newbristolsinfonia.org.uk/ n The congregation of Holy Trinity Church are to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee with a special service on Sunday 5th June. The service at the parish church will include music, readings and other celebrations to commemorate the 70 reign of Her Majesty the Queen. It will begin at 6.30pm all are welcome. n Music for Love and Nature is the title of the next concert of the Bristol Chamber Choir. The programme features the music of Ralph Vaughan Williams whose 150th anniversary they are celebrating and will include part-songs and madrigals mostly by English composers. All Saints Church, Pembroke Road, Clifton, is the venue and it starts at 7.30pm on the 3rd July, 2022. Tickets are £10.00 (children and students free) available on-line from the Choir's website (see below), from Eventbrite or at the door or from Opus 13, 20-21 Lower Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5BN For further information go to www.bristolchamberchoir.org.uk or ring 07342 954249

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June, 2022

Get ready for Bristol’s Clean Air Zone

n NEWS

Summer 2022

Bristol is introducing a Clean Air Zone to reduce harmful pollution. Older and more polluting vehicles will be charged to enter the zone. Check your vehicle online and find out how we can help you prepare for the zone.

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June, 2022

n NEWS

Spring chicks bring joy to care home

SIX fluffy chicks caused something of a stir at a care home just a few weeks after an Easter egg hunt with neighbouring children’s nursery. Residents at Care UK’s Trymview Hall, on Southmead Road, had been eagerly waiting to welcome the chicks, who arrived in an incubator, ready to hatch. The Spring surprise meant residents were able to watch the eggs hatch live and witness the miracle of life as the chicks – which have now found their forever home at Trymview Hall – were born in front of their very eyes. There was much excitement on the day, with residents keen to show the chicks plenty of fuss and attention. Just a few weeks earlier children from Lake House nursery teamed up with residents for a cracking Easter egg hunt – though the chocolate eggs did not produce any offspring. One resident at Trymview

Trymview Hall resident Jean with one of the fluffy chicks Hall, said: “It has been lovely to hold the chicks and watch them grow – we have given them all names!”

Nicole Anderson, home manager at Trymview Hall, said: “It’s been lovely to see the residents so excited about the

arrival of these eggs – with these new fluffy residents making for the best start to the season. “Here at Trymview Hall, we are always looking for new and exciting activities for residents to enjoy. Animal therapy has proven to be incredibly beneficial for older people, as it can be calming, prompt conversations, and put a smile on everyone’s faces. “It was a truly wonderful experience to welcome the six chicks into the home – and we look forward to caring for them for years to come!” Trymview Hall provides fulltime residential and dementia care, with 66 ensuite bedrooms, and has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.

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Enjoy the very best in later living at a St Monica Trust retirement village. To learn more about village life book your place on a guided tour now by calling 0117 919 4272 or visit www.stmonicatrust.org.uk for more information and details of available properties.

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June, 2022

n NEWS

Queen's award for Badock's Wood

THE Friends of Badock’s Wood are delighted that Badock’s Wood has been chosen as part of a nationwide network of 70 Ancient Woodlands to be dedicated to The Queen in celebration of her Platinum Jubilee The Queen’s Green Canopy recently announced the network of 70 Ancient Woodlands and 70 Ancient Trees across the United Kingdom which will form part of the Ancient Canopy to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of service. The initiative was launched by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, who is Patron of The Queen’s Green Canopy. Badock’s Wood has been woodland continuously for the last 500 years. The woodland area has been home to humans since the Bronze Age and was used for post-war prefabs built in the 1940s until the 1980s. Badock’s Wood has been used by local people as a resource in past times and more recently as a place of solace and of great importance during the recent pandemic. The Queen’s representative in Bristol, Peaches Golding, Lord Lieutenant of the County and City of Bristol said, “Badock’s Wood, is such a valuable place for the people of Southmead and surrounding neighbourhoods, as well as a natural asset for the city as a whole. As a designated Local Nature Reserve since 2008, we in Bristol have already recognised its worth, but it is wonderful that it is one of just 70 ancient woodlands across the country to be given the accolade of forming

part of the national Queen’s Green Canopy. This is a positive celebration of Her Majesty’s 70 years as Monarch.” Frances Robertson, from Friends of Badock’s Wood said, “Badock’s Wood is a hidden haven for wildlife. The Friends group along with other local organisations and community members have worked together for over 20 years to keep Badock’s Wood a lovely place for everyone. We are going to celebrate this award and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by planting a Jubilee Copse of 70 trees, commissioning a sculpted Jubilee Bench and planting an oak tree near the bench in the Autumn during tree planting season. “We are also hoping to work with the Southmead “Meadows

to Meaders” community project to have a roaming performance about the history of the woodland and the people who lived here. For example, many of the children of the families who moved into theprefabs post war, now somewhat older, remember living in the area around the Bronze Age Burial Mound with this fabulous woodland as their garden. We look forward to a fantastic year of celebration and community fun. More details will be published on our website www.fobw.org.uk indue course” Cllr Brenda Massey, Councillor for Southmead said: “This is brilliant news, and I am so pleased that Badock’s Wood is being recognised in this way. It is a fantastic asset for people living in the area, and this award is definitely recognition of all the hard work the supporters

have put in over the years to look after it and protect it for the future of our children. Just being able to come here during the pandemic, for example, has been so important to local people especially those with no access to gardens. I myself came with my family during these difficult times. I think it is an important place for people’s health and well-being and believe that this award is in part in recognition of this.” By sharing the stories behind the Ancient woodlands and trees, as well as the incredible efforts that are made to protect them, The Queen’s Green Canopy aims to raise awareness of these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations. https:// queensgreencanopy.org/

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June, 2022

n NEWS PLANS to reduce flooding at the bottom of Whiteladies Road could see new drainage, a wider pavement and a loss of the cycle lane – and the plans are out to consultation now. People living, working and travelling through Whiteladies Road are encouraged to give their views on the proposals, which would affect the footpath between the junctions of Tyndall’s Park Road and Queen’s Road. This section of Whiteladies Road can get flooded and blocks the way through for pedestrians. The pavement along one side is uneven and narrow, because of the trees and their roots. The council suggests removing the painted cycle lanes and using the space to widen the footpaths on both sides of

henleaze&westburyvoice

Action plan to curb flooding Councillor Don Alexander, cabinet member for transport, said: “Our streets are for everyone, and this part of Whiteladies Road clearly needs to be rethought. “It is always a last resort to propose taking out cycle lanes, but the lack of space in this area means we need to consider it. “A wider pavement would allow us to resolve the problems with flooding, while making the footpath safer and more accessible for all. the road, replacing the footpath surface with flexible block paving, and adding a drainage channel and grass verges within the wider footpath. The proposals will not affect

the flow of traffic in either direction, and vehicle access to properties, along with the advanced stop lines for cyclists at the traffic lights, will remain in place.

To view the plan and fill in a short survey visit https://www.bristol.gov.uk/ floodandfootpathscheme by 8 June 2022.

E-cargo bikes trial scheme gets under way BUSINESSES and organisations in Bishopston could have the chance to try out e-cargo bikes. The West of England Combined Authority is investing £920,000 in a scheme to it hopes will result in more goods and services being delivered by bikes rather than diesel vans. A year-long trial begins this month. Metro Mayor Dan Norris tested the bikes on offer when he joined Bristol Royal Infirmary, the University of the West of England and other participants at a ‘try before you trial’ event . It saw participants select from four cargo bike models. Using GPS trackers, the trial will monitor the carbon savings of the bikes, which are said to be fast, reliable and clean bikes. With recent estimates suggesting

Dan Norris with Christopher Moody from Electric Bike Sales Bristol e-cargo bikes deliver about 60 per cent faster than diesel vans and cut carbon emissions by 90 per cent, Mr Norris says the bikes will mean less pollution and congestion across the West

of England, and therefore will be good for the environment and good for the region. He said: “If we are going to reach our ambitious net-zero targets, we urgently need to put

on the brakes and re-evaluate how goods move across our region. I’ve spoken to many smaller businesses who sing the praises of electric bikes, but getting these larger organisations to sign up is a significant step. I’m proud that the West of England Combined Authority under my leadership is helping ensure polluting diesel vans are a thing of the past. From groceries to medical supplies, e-cargo bikes can help cut congestion and clean up our toxic air. That’s a win-win for our region”. Businesses operating within Bristol’s Clean Air Zone may be able to obtain financial support towards e-cargo bikes from Bristol City Council. www. bristol.gov.uk/streets-travel/ bristol-caz/financial-support

Ukraine fundraiser FRIENDS Emily and Harry came home from Bishop Road School about a month ago and decided they wanted to raise money for the children in Ukraine. They teamed with their sister and brother Abi and George and initially they were going to sell some toys and books but wanted to do more so we decided to raise money by doing circuits on the Downs. They did 10 activities in three sessions for nearly two hours in hot sunny weather one Sunday. So many of their school friends came along to take part and cheer them on and the day ended with happy faces, sweaty brows and full hearts. They have raised £1248 and the families are so proud and so grateful to everyone who generously donated.

Ukraine fundraisers George , 6 , Harry, 8 , Abi 6, and Emily, 8

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henleaze&westburyvoice

n EDUCATION

June, 2022

Ofsted: Redland Green is still Outstanding REDLAND Green School has retained its Outstanding rating from Ofsted following its latest inspection. A team from the schools watchdog visited in March and ruled that RGS could keep the top grade, which it was awarded in 2016. The inspectors praised the school’s ambition and made many positive comments but raised concerns over ongoing assessment of pupils’ learning and the clarity of the curriculum, which they said could lead to a lower judgement at a full inspection. Ofsted will return to the school within one to two years. In a report following the twoday visit, the three inspectors said pupils enjoyed coming to school. They noted the respectful relationships between groups of pupils and between pupils and staff. “Pupils behave well in lessons

From

Redland Green School and at social times. They are calm and courteous. Pupils take responsibility for themselves and for others. There are many leadership opportunities available,” the report said. Inspectors said leaders ensured that behaviour

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improved. In a changed approach, the emphasis was now on finding out the causes of poor behaviour and tackling them. “Pupils understand the sanctions in place and say they are generally fair. The rewards system reinforces the positive behaviour of the majority. Leaders promote good attendance and punctuality.” On the academic front, Ofsted said that RGS leaders were ambitious for all children. “The work given to pupils challenges them to develop a rich body of knowledge. Pupils take an active part in lessons. They are keen to ask and answer questions, and to take part in discussions with teachers and with their peers.” The curriculum was described as very ambitious and was said to promote diversity and equality. Most pupils continue to study a language and a humanities subject at GCSE, putting “the English Baccalaureate at the heart of the curriculum.” A focus on reading was noted: “Teaching in many subjects exposes pupils to very challenging texts, with appropriate support to ensure all benefit from this.” “Teachers know pupils well. They know how to help pupils to learn and know what support will be most useful. Pupils with special educational needs and/ or disabilities have their needs met. They make good progress. Parents and pupils are positive about the support that they receive.” Ofsted highlighted the

enrichment programme for children, the thorough careers programme and the personal, social and health education (PSHE) on offer, which they said was responsive to global, national and local developments. “Pupils value the time they spend learning about topics such as mental well-being and healthy relationships. They say leaders encourage them to give their views about what they learn. Sixth-form students are particularly positive about PSHE and how it is preparing them for life beyond school.” “Action is taken at both an individual and school-wide level to address emerging areas of need, such as a recent increase in mental health concerns. Systems are well designed to make sure that pupils’ needs are identified as soon as possible.” The inspectors also noted that leaders provided clear vision, which helped staff manage their workload. The areas highlighted for improvement were assessment, which Ofsted said did not always identify gaps in pupil knowledge and therefore children did not learn as much as they could, and some areas of the curriculum, which were said to be unclear. Headteacher Louise Blundell said the school was pleased that the Outstanding rating had been confirmed by Ofsted in the short (Section 8) inspection. “We are also proud that, throughout the inspection, the team were able to identify the strength of the core values that run through our school. The inspection team highlighted many areas of strength within the school, despite the interruption the last two years have brought,” she said. “The Ofsted team did importantly identify two areas of inconsistency for the school to explore and further develop to ensure that we remain Outstanding in future inspections. These areas for development are in line with our own self-evaluation, and as such, are areas the school is already continuing to strengthen ready for our next full (Section 5) inspection, which will be due within the next two years.”

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June, 2022

n EDUCATION

Bristol Free School upgraded to Good

BRISTOL Free School is celebrating after being upgraded to Good by the education watchdog Ofsted. A team of five inspectors visited the secondary school in Concorde Drive, Westburyon-Trym in March and rated it Good in all areas – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and sixth-form provision. Headteacher Susan King said the inspection had captured all the strengths and rapid improvements the school had made since 2018, when it was judged to require improvement. She said she was particularly pleased that the quality of the teaching and the sixth form were singled out as considerable strengths. Mrs King said: “I am very lucky to lead such a fantastic school with an ambitious and diverse student body and such dedicated staff. This judgement provides a strong base from which we can develop BFS to be

Pupils Zac, Yoli, Simona, Toby, headteacher Susan King, Patrick and Jessica celebrate the successful Ofsted outcome at Bristol Free School an excellent school for everyone. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the wider community of NW Bristol for their support and their best wishes since the inspection report has been published. It really has been overwhelming

Little Mead's success A LARGE primary school in Southmead has been confirmed as Outstanding by Ofsted. Dale Burr, an inspector from the education watchdog, visited Little Mead Primary Academy in February and found it a “friendly and welcoming place to learn”. He praised the school’s “inclusive and caring culture” and said children felt safe and valued. Mr Burr said he would not change the Outstanding grade, given to Little Mead in 2016, as a result of his short inspection but that Ofsted would return within two years for a full inspection. Among Mr Burr’s positive findings at the 461-pupil school were: • “Leaders set high expectations for pupils’ social and academic learning. They want them to achieve the very best in all they do. Recent improvements to the curriculum are helping pupils to be curious learners and perform well.” • “Pupils’ behaviour across the school is typically calm and sensible. They understand and follow the school rules of ‘be safe, be respectful and be kind’. “ •“Leaders and staff use assessment well to identify gaps in pupils’ learning, some as a result of Covid-19. “ The ambitious curriculum was highlighted, as was work to develop staff’s subject knowledge. The focus on children’s personal development - including learning about different cultures, beliefs and lifestyles and about local issues, such as road safety and criminal exploitation – was also praised. To improve further, the inspector said the school should focus on implementation of the wider curriculum and the development of pupils’ reading fluency. The Endeavour Academy Trust, which runs the school, was said to be effective in holding school leaders to account.

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and shows the high esteem in which the school is held. “ Lead inspector Sarah Favager-Dalton said pupils enjoyed attending BFS and behaved well. “Most pupils are keen to take part in lessons, and work

hard. They cooperate with each other and enjoy taking part in discussions and presentations,” her report said. “Leaders are ambitious for all pupils. "Teachers have strong subject knowledge and are keen to share this with pupils. They know their pupils well and use this knowledge to help them learn. Teachers use assessment well to help pupils improve their work. “Leaders know where learning gaps have developed as a result of the pandemic and have adapted the curriculum accordingly.” The two areas that inspectors said the school needed to improve were provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities and ensuring that children “A small number of pupils use discriminatory language on occasion. This upsets their peers. Leaders need to ensure that the curriculum is effective in preparing all pupils for life in modern Britain so incidents of this nature reduce,” Ofsted said.

Praise from Ofsted FILTON Avenue Primary School is celebrating after being upgraded to Good by the education watchdog Ofsted. The 644-pupil school was rated Good in all areas - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision - by a team of four inspectors who visited for two days in March. Lead inspector Richard Lucas said in his report: “ Filton Avenue Primary School is a happy, caring and inclusive place for pupils to learn. The school’s values of collaboration, aspiration, respect and endeavour underpin the way in which pupils and staff treat each other. This brings out the best in everyone for the benefit of the school.” Other highlights from the report included: • “Staff have high expectations for every pupil. Pupils work hard to rise to this challenge. They are eager to learn and enjoy lessons.” • “Leaders have designed an

engaging curriculum that puts the local community at its heart. There are many opportunities for pupils to extend their learning beyond the curriculum.” • “Relationships between pupils and staff are strong. Pupils feel safe and are confident to speak to staff about any worries. Those who find managing their emotions more difficult get the support they need. Pupils say that behaviour is good in school.” The inspectors were impressed with the emphasis the school puts on reading. They also thought provision for maths, writing, history, music and science was strong. To improve further, they said, the school should improve its practice on the teaching of phonics. The Ofsted team said staff morale was high and the school was considerate of staff workload and wellbeing. Filton Avenue Primary was last inspected in 2018, when it was judged to require improvement.

Email: news@henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk

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June, 2022

n NEWS

How we can make e-scooters safer THOSE electric scooters are in the news again with the Transport Bill which could see private scooters legalised as well as the Voi hire scooters that we’ve got used to on our roads in Bristol. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents says e-scooters are much safer on our roads than bicycles or motorcycles. Their survey collecting data from the Department for Transport, a number of operators and local authorities, found that e-scooters were five times less likely to be involved in a collision than bicycles , while motorcycles were nine times more likely to be involved in collisions. The vast majority of collisions involved much heavier powered vehicles on unsegregated roads, indicating a need for segregated traffic areas such as cycle lanes. Most accidents happened in daylight hours between 2pm and 7pm with peak accidents at 3pm and 6pm. Men (77 per cent) were far more likely to be involved than women.

RoSPA were impressed with the extra safety features that rental scooters employ some of which feature on Bristol’s own Voi scooter trial. But the Newcastle e-scooter operator Neuron has GPS tracking which they used to limit speeds where slow zones occur, and boundaries beyond which the e-scooters power down. Additionally integrated helmets were a feature of the Newcastle scheme. Bristol’s Metro Mayor Dan

THE Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal needs your help. The appeal in Bristol and South Gloucestershire normally raises more than half a million pounds a year, but it needs more people to volunteer to help organise collections at venues, such as supermarkets. There is a vacancy for a Poppy Appeal organiser in Westbury, where £20,000 a year is usually raised. Organisers are also needed for other venues including Cabot Circus Bristol; Central Bristol; The Galleries Bristol

Norris anticipates that the new legislation will legalise private scooters: He said: “In legalising e-scooters, the Government is going to have to ensure there are very strict controls. No road journey is totally safe and if you are on an e-scooter which are inherently less stable than bicycles, you are going to expect to see more injuries. But that means people need to wear helmets and the Government needs to indicate what they are going to do about that. I think the Government need to do that. It seems consistent with all our other rules. Head injuries are a real risk and you are sadly much more prone to those on e-scooters”. RoSPA recommend: • Given the rate of crashes that take place on single carriageways improvements including segregated bike and e-scooter lanes would be beneficial. • Safety standards should be applied to improve the visibility of e-scooters on the road, including those that relate to

indication, lighting and braking. • Providing mandatory training on the Highway Code and the practical operation of e-scooters would be beneficial for all users. • Awareness and training on e-scooter behaviour for other road users, in particular car drivers, would be beneficial. • e-scooter users should be encouraged to wear helmets when riding Insurance companies warn that charging those powerful Lithium Batteries can present a fire risk with battery fires up 164 per cent in London alone. Zurich say they had claims of £83,000 on one house fire and £9,000 on a shed fire. Fires often resulted from charging being left on too long, faulty batteries and often faulty chargers that weren’t supplied by the manufacturers. Fire safety officers warn that frequently battery fires occurred in hallways, which were the main escape routes in homes. They also had call-outs to bedrooms where the whole scooter had been left on charge overnight.

Poppy appeal seeks organiser Poppy Appeal organisers get full support and training from the Royal British Legion, and an opportunity to work beside other passionate and committed volunteers. You do not need to be a member of the Royal British Legion or a member of the military to be a volunteer. If you would like to volunteer as your local Poppy Appeal organiser or give a few

hours collecting in a supermarket, please contact Jackie on 07527 151360 The money raised in the Poppy Appeal is used to provide help, support and guidance to past and current members of the armed services and their dependents. If you or anyone you know needs help from the RBL please contact the RBL national helpline: - 0808 802 8080

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June, 2022

n NEWS

Queen's Baton relay comes to Bristol THE Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay will visit Bristol during its final journey through England this summer. On Tuesday 5 July, Bristol will welcome the Baton and its Batonbearers. Five per cent of Bristol people were born in other Commonwealth countries. During its time in Bristol, the Queen’s Baton Relay will visit the Empire Fighting Chance Charity (EFC), where the Batonbearer will be invited to spar with local boxers, including former Commonwealth Champion and World Champion, Lee Haskins. They will then head to St Agnes Park to meet school children . Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, a keen boxer, said: “I know the power sport has to change lives, I am looking forward to welcoming the Queen’s Baton Relay to Bristol this summer. The baton being here gives us a chance to recognise sport in our communities, as well as to celebrate the diversity and international links of our population across the city.”

The public are encouraged to get involved with the celebrations and embrace the arrival of the Baton. People who want to watch the Baton Relay pass through Bristol are being encouraged to join the school children at St Agnes Park from 11.20am. The Queen’s Baton started its journey last October visiting Commonwealth countries in Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, the Americas and Oceania. By the time it returns to the UK it will have visited 71 countries and will be relayed to Birmingham for the start of the Commonwealth Games on July 28.

n LETTER

Developer's ad gave wrong impression THE May edition of the Henleaze and Westbury Voice had on page 32 an advertisement that includes an image supposedly of the proposed ST Christopher’s development; an image that you and many others have used several times before. This image gives the impression that this is what the development would look like and has prompted people in Westbury Park to comment along the lines of “what’s all this fuss about tall buildings, this looks really nice”. The image is NOT of the development. It is of the conversion of the existing listed building (Grace House for those who know it). As well as using an unacceptable wide-angle view and softening the current cold grey colour of the building, the image very, very carefully avoids showing any of the proposed new buildings around the existing one. In fact the viewpoint for this image is on the ground floor of the proposed six-storey block, only around 20 metres away from the listed building in the image. I had alerted one of the project directors to this issue and was told that the image should not be used again, but this has been ignored and your readers should be made aware of this. Jeff Bishop On behalf of the Westbury Park Community Association

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standards, and each has its own café, hair salon, cinema and bar. There are regular outings and live entertainment, plus activities with local groups and schools so your loved one feels part of the community. Signage, colour schemes, soft furnishings and floor coverings are all designed to create a calming and accessible setting. Dine with dignity at Care UK Our award-winning ‘Dining with dignity’ approach is all about enabling residents with dementia to continue enjoying delicious and nutritious food. Many of our chefs come from leading hotels and restaurants and our kitchen teams undertake specialist training so they can create tempting modified menus if your loved one needs a special diet. We use our own bespoke dementiafriendly crockery to promote independent eating, but help is always at hand if your loved one

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Housing project will help reduce reoffending LAST month, I celebrated one year since local people elected me to be Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner – and what a year it has been. I’ve enjoyed every single day, week and month since being elected in May 2021 and over the last few weeks I’ve been reflecting on the achievements of the last year, including the publication of the Police and Crime Plan, the appointment of Chief Constable Sarah Crew and the increase in the policing part of the council tax, following a successful consultation with more than 5,600 responses from local people. With the support of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, we secured over £1 million in funding for independent domestic violence advisors and sexual violence advisors, as well as over £100,000 of additional funding for sexual violence and domestic abuse services. I also supported the launch of

the Identifying Disproportionality in the Criminal Justice System report, and I have become the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ national lead for economic and cyber crime. There’s still plenty of work to be done, including continuing to ensure the new chief constable is delivering efficient and effective policing; meeting with local people and partners – particularly residents in rural areas – to hear about their policing concerns; and progressing work on the national economic and cyber crime portfolio. I’m very much looking forward to the year ahead and seeing what can be achieved. I work with many local agencies to prevent and reduce reoffending across our force area. Recently, I was lucky enough to see an innovative scheme in Gloucester that aims to reduce reoffending by giving prisoners a chance to learn new and transferable skills.

The scheme sees prisoners released on temporary licence from Leyhill Prison help build affordable, eco-friendly housing pods that will be situated on “meanwhile sites” – land which is temporarily available before being put to another permanent use – across the south west. The modular housing – which has a minimum lifespan of 60 years and is easy to relocate – will provide accommodation for prison leavers, refugees and those at risk of homelessness, and refuges for domestic abuse victims. As well as providing prisoners with skills that will help them find jobs when they leave prison and settled accommodation, which can reduce reoffending by up to 50%, prisoners will also be paid for their work, which could contribute towards a housing deposit or rent. The pods also help alleviate the lack of affordable housing and have eco-friendly features including a solar-powered heat pump and

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford insulation made from recycled milk cartons. However, the programme needs support, especially more permanent or temporary sites that will allow more projects to be rolled out. So I want to hear from councils and landowners who have meanwhile sites where six housing pods could be located for six years. This scheme is quite literally giving people a new start and, by doing so, keeping the community safe. Please do get in touch if you want to be involved.

Housing Forums

for Bristol council tenants – get involved!

Evening:

Afternoon:

Monday 20 June 2022, 6–8pm

Wednesday 22 June 2022, 1–3pm

Your opinions help us make decisions! If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and make suggestions about improvements. For Summer 2022, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and hear some top tips from the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) on how to reduce your energy bills and save money. You can also find out more about the types of support available to you if you are worried about the effect of the national price hike.

Got News? Call 0117 9082121

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk

Email: news@henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk

henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n FROM OUR MP

Libraries are vital to communities Your champion in Bristol WE celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II this June. I hope that everyone has a chance to enjoy the extended bank holiday weekend to mark the occasion. With 75 years of continuous public service, the Queen has upheld her constitutional responsibilities with integrity. The Queen has been our figure head during good and bad times, and I hope that all public servants can find inspiration and guidance from her remarkable service to our country. It was great to see so many of you at the Henleaze Library’s 50th Anniversary celebration. I was delighted to have been invited to offer a few words about the enduring importance of literacy and local libraries. Even when the pandemic forced closures in 2020, the Henleaze library served our communities as a Covid test collection point. The reopening of libraries was a marking point in our Covid recovery, and I’m glad that children and adults can access books, films, and magazines at their local library once again. As we face future challenges, it’s apt that Westbury library has been fitted with cutting-edge solar panels. If you are not yet a Bristol Library member, I wholeheartedly recommend joining. To access libraries across Bristol and the online service, you can join for free at librarieswest.org.uk or your local library. As people voted to replace the mayoral system, change is coming to the way Bristol is

governed. The new system, where councillors form committees to take decisions, will start in 2024. The councillors will need to work together to make decisions in the best interest of our city, especially as we continue to face urgent problems with housing, transport and the climate emergency. If you choose to re-elect me as your local MP, whenever the next general election is called, I will continue to hold the council to account on your behalf. Antisocial Behaviour (ASB) has become one of my top casework issues in recent years, and I’ve worked with constituents in every part of Bristol North West with serious ASB issues. Being a victim of ASB can negatively impact our quality of life and well-being, and I want it to be easier and faster to deal with these problems. I’ve held meetings with Bristol City Council to understand the roadblocks to tackle ASB and have raised this issue once again with the Police and Crime Commissioner. I’ll be using our experience helping constituents with ASB and the feedback I’ve received from officials and others to push for action and debate on this in Parliament before the Summer recess. Your champion in Parliament. Last month, the Queen’s Speech set out the Government’s aims for the next year. It was the Prime Minister’s chance to set out his vision for Britain. Yet, in the bills presented, what we saw was mere tidying up of long overdue technical pieces of legislation and the laying of the foundations for

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the culture war approach to the next General Election, for example by scrapping the Human Rights Bill. In the last parliamentary session, I worked as your MP and the Chair of the Business Committee to expose malpractice from P&O and energy regulation to Covid loan fraud and the Post Office-Horizon Scandal. I worked with colleagues from every political party to get the Government to be more ambitious in tackling climate change at COP26. Working with local dentists, we got the Government to commit to more funding for dental care in the South West. My casework team and I helped constituents with family in Ukraine and Afghanistan. It was a busy year, and we carry over more urgent issues into the next session. My focus will be on ensuring that the Government cannot ignore the challenges that families face in Bristol and across the country. That means pushing for real financial support to get us through the cost-of-living crisis and arguing for a stronger, fairer economy that works for the whole country. It also means making sure that we fund our police and justice system properly and that we have a real plan to support the NHS and repair our social care system. And it means empowering communities to make decisions about how housing, transport and climate action work in their neighbourhood and surrounding area. Last month I travelled to Brussels to work with EU

Darren Jones writes for the Voice parliamentary counterparts on Ukraine, energy cooperation and the Northern Ireland Protocol. As the previous two years have proven, collaboration and partnership with the EU are crucial to our country. So, I’m proud to be one of the MPs in our Parliament working to repair this relationship. Later this month, I’ll work with colleagues to support cross-parliamentary work on data poverty and modern slavery. These are problems faced by people in Bristol North West and across the country that too often go unnoticed. As usual, if you need my help or have a question, I am running telephone surgeries and regular fortnightly catchups on Tuesdays on Facebook. Please get in touch on darren.jones.mp@parliament. uk or call the office on 0117 959 6545 or visit www.darrenjones. co.uk

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June, 2022

n NEWS

henleaze&westburyvoice

Strongest affordable home building statistics for over a decade in Bristol THE number of affordable homes built in the city has reached a 12 year record high, Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees has announced. The increasing number of affordable homes being built in the city comes after Mayor Rees set a new target to deliver 1,000 affordable homes a year from 2024, as part of its Project 1000 plan. Project 1000 sets out how the council will increase affordable delivery to meet increasing need, at the same time as tackling the climate and ecological emergencies and building sustainable, balanced communities. In total, 474 affordable homes were completed in 2021/22, with the majority of these delivered by housing associations with support from the council, alongside the delivery of council homes. Statistics from the past decade indicate a steady increase in affordable homes built year-on-year, with figures doubling in the past four years. With over 16,000 people on the council’s Housing Register waiting for homes, and projections suggesting the city will need over 22,000 new affordable homes during the next 20 years, Mayor Rees said this news couldn’t come at a more important time. He said: “There is a national housing crisis and many people in the city don’t have a safe and secure roof over their heads. There are families and vulnerable people living in unsuitable temporary accommodation, so there is no option than to build new homes. I’m therefore proud we’ve doubled the number of affordable homes built in the last four years but we can’t stop the pace. Having a home has one of the biggest impacts on life outcomes, health and happiness.” Statistics from the past decade indicate a steady increase in affordable homes built year-on-year, with figures noticeably picking up pace during the past three years: there were 260 built in Bristol during 2018-19; 312 for 2019-20; and 400 for 2020-21. Councillor Tom Renhard, Cabinet Member for Housing Delivery and Homes, added: “Increasing the speed and scale at which we support the delivery of affordable homes is a priority for the council and this administration. These results, the best for over 10 years, show that we are moving in the right direction, but there is still plenty of work to do. The council estimates that there are over 1,400 affordable homes on site and being built in Bristol, but not yet completed. These homes are expected to be completed in the coming years as the delivery of affordable homes across Bristol is accelerated. There are also thought to be about 13,000 homes with planning consent issued to private developers that are not currently building.

Bank the food THE cost of living is skyrocketing, and more people than ever now seek emergency food parcels. Pressure is mounting on the 2000 UK foodbanks, with unprecedented demand. But imagine a foodbank with 1000 tins of baked beans but no toilet rolls! Often food banks are inundated with one item but have very little of another and asking donors for specific items is challenging - the situation has usually changed by the time the message has spread. To help get those appeals out instantly, BanktheFood is a new charity set up to help foodbanks get what they need, exactly when they need it. Readers can help make a difference by downloading the BanktheFood charity app and following their nearest food bank. The app will then ping their phone a real-time list of urgently needed items when they are at the supermarket, making it easy to add an item or two to their shopping and leave it at the drop-off point when they have finished. The app is free to download and use, and all foodbanks can register. It’s a simple way to make a huge difference. Emma Spring, cofounder and volunteer at BanktheFood

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Support for Ukrainian refugees and their host families WESTBURY Churches are working together to open a local ‘Hub’ for Ukrainian refugees and their hosts from June 1st. Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church will be open on that first Wednesday and every Wednesday after in the mornings, 10.00am – 12.30pm to allow refugees and hosts to socialise over refreshments and cakes. There will be provision for young children and the volunteers will be able to guide people to access other help. The initial meeting took place at Holy Trinity with curate, Rev Cheryl Hawkins, in the chair, with representatives from the Methodist Church, Parish Church, Baptist Church and St Mary’s Stoke Bishop, a local host and a representative from the Avonmouth Foodbank. All churches were enthusiastic about providing volunteers who will be trained to offer the appropriate advice and guidance.

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n PHARMACY BLOG

Planning to travel abroad at last? Don't forget your jabs WELL, things are starting to get back to some normality. We are seeing more people enquiring about our Bristol Travel Clinic service – our lowest cost guarantee with a pricematch promise – remains very popular across the South West. More people are also choosing to save time and embrace our prescription ordering app's convenience and control. With the warmer, sunnier weather, it is important to remember that the pandemic is still not over; we must stay vigilant and follow sensible precautions. There are also now more queries about sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes - hay fever. One in four people in Bristol are hay fever

sufferers. Some people develop hay fever for the first time as adults; most are lifelong sufferers. It usually begins in childhood or during the teenage years, more common in boys than girls. You are more likely to develop hay fever if you have a family history of allergies, particularly asthma or eczema. Hay fever is caused by an allergy to the pollen found in plants. Grass pollen is the most common cause, but pollen from trees and weeds can also bring on symptoms. Days off school and work are not uncommon. Perish that thought of mowing a lawn! The good news is that your community pharmacy can help you identify hay fever correctly and recommend the best

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treatment option, compatible with any other medical conditions or prescribed regular medications. It is possible to manage hay fever by taking some basic precautions: • Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors • Staying indoors, avoid grassy areas when the pollen count is high (shut windows & doors) • Whenever possible, keep pets out of the house during the hay fever season. • Avoid smoking indoors as this can worsen symptoms. • Vacuum regularly and use an air purifier to extract pollen particles. wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen from getting in your

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n TEENAGE VOICE

Testing times as the sun beats down THE last few weeks have brought years of hectic exam preparation to its culmination, as GSCEs and A-levels kick off, to continue until the end of June. Another month of excruciatingly stressful exams lies ahead, as students swarm like wasps towards schools and libraries in the hopes of extra help, and last minute cramming. As is customary, the minds of the future have been packed tightly into gym halls and left to sweat in the rising temperatures and under the watchful eyes of the exam invigilators: the feared prison warders of educational success; the guardians of the grade. Exams don't mean everything, but for those in this situation, it's undeniable that they mean a lot. From the age of five we have been tested, and retested over and over again, and for those who choose to attend university, this testing won't stop until the age of 22. Society's fascination with

Sixth-former Ella Gilbert says the class of 2022 - the first to sit exams fully since the pandemic - are under pressure and deserve to be given a break turning children into quantifiable statistics is, by nature, exclusionary and can be severely detrimental to the developing minds of teenagers. The pressures placed on them to succeed are crushing, especially in 2022 as they are the first year group to sit exams fully after the disruption made by the Covid pandemic. Overzealous parents placing unreasonable expectations on their already struggling kids is heartbreaking to witness;

competing with the idealisation of who they should be academically whilst balancing revision places teenagers at their breaking point. It is important to remember to take time to breathe; Hamlet has lasted centuries, he can wait one more hour while you take a break! It is also a season of great change and excitement as the school leaving process begins with most schools granting study leave, meaning that many exam

classes will not return this year. I have already spotted floods of ink-stained leavers pouring out of schools, following the tradition of signing shirts. One thing I do miss about exam season is the joyous chaos of this event, sun drunk and weightless with the prospect of finishing. So what next? For some, this means moving school, college, or even city, while others prepare to join the world of work. It's a scary time, made all the more fearful by the dreaded days of exams. It can be difficult to start afresh but with in-person open days now becoming possible again, opportunities of school speed dating are becoming available to help inform where the next phase of educational life will be spent. No matter where my fellow students decide to go next in life, I wish them the greatest luck, offer my support in this sunny exam season, and hope they take a well deserved break.

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n EDUCATION

Boys chase football dreams

THREE footballers who attend Fairfield High School narrowly missed out on a trophy at a football competition in Cornwall. Year 10 students Jaser, Sennen and Amari, who play for Whitchurch Football Club Under 15s, competed in the bank holiday tournament with their teammates. Five games were played, with the decider coming down to just one goal in the second half. Sennen said: “The final was such a close call, during the first half both teams were even, but in the second our team dominated pretty much all the way through until the crucial moment when they got one over the line. We’re really pleased with the way we played and look forward to holding the winning trophy next time.” Amy Carr, achievement coordinator at FHS, said: “We’re so proud of our students’ accomplishments in this national competition. I know how hard they’ve worked to achieve their level of fitness and skill, and wish them every success to fulfil their future dreams of playing in a professional capacity.” The boys are aiming high: Sennen wants to play for Benfica, Jaser Manchester United and Amari PSG.

Trusts look to the future THE academy trusts running two north Bristol secondary schools are in talks about a possible merger. The Excalibur trust, of which Fairfield High School is part, and Gatehouse Green Learning Trust, which runs Redland Green School, say discussions are at an early stage and there will be consultation with parents and other stakeholders before any decision is taken. The move is in line with the recent government white paper, which recommends larger trusts to drive school improvement and ensure the best outcomes for children. The trusts have also announced that Nick Lewis, who currently leads FHS, will be seconded for a year to GGLT as interim CEO after Sarah Baker retires. Ms Baker was the founding head of RGS before becoming CEO in 2017.

New name for school COLSTON'S School has announced the new name it will take later this year. The Stapleton independent school, founded by slave trader Edward Colston, said last year that it would stop using his name and announced a consultation process to choose a new one. That "lengthy and considered" process has now ended and the school has announced that its new name will be Collegiate, or Collegiate School, Bristol. Colston’s School was set up by the Bristol-born merchant, MP and philanthropist as Colston's Hospital, an all-boys boarding school, in 1710. It has carried his name ever since. But the toppling of Colston's statue in the city centre during a Black Lives Matter protest in 2020 prompted a consultation on whether to make a change. The results showed that 81% of the 1,096 members of the public who responded believed the school should retain Colston's name – but the governors said current and recent former pupils, as well as staff, were "more inclined to

see a change in the name of the school as a positive step". They insist the name change "must not be interpreted as an attempt to change or deny the school's history". The school said the name was chosen "following hundreds of suggestions received from students, parents, staff and former students, with Collegiate being a strong contender due to its previous connection with the school". After merging with the Collegiate School in Winterbourne in 1991, the school was known as Colston’s Collegiate when it first became fully co-educational but reverted to being known as Colston's School in 2005. Head teacher Jeremy McCullough said: “Increasingly our student and parental body reflect the diverse nature of Bristol and we want to continue to work with our local communities in order to widen access to our school as much as possible. The school will formally adopt the new name from the start of the autumn term in September.

Got News? Call 0117 9082121

Email: news@henleazeandwestburyvoice.co.uk

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

AMD Solicitors announce new charity of the year and are to take on the Cotswolds Way Challenge to raise funds 23 bishopston voice bishopstonvoice

July, 2014

E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

AMD Solicitors. Advertising Feature At AMD Solicitors we are proud to To help burn off the extra calories a team

support a different charity each from AMD Solicitors will be taking part in the year by raising awareness and Cotswold Way Challenge. On 25th June, they sponsorship for them throughout will embark on a 29km walk from Painswick to Wotton with a few tough hills thrown in. the year. Our ‘Charity of the Year’ The team which comprises of Aleksandra for 2022, as chosen by members of How leaving money to charityWegera, canGrant save you Inheritance Tax McCall, Jennifer MacDonald, staff at AMD is a local charity, Great Katie Hughes and Zoe Sproull. Training is well Western Air Ambulance. our intrepid team and they of the Society of Trust will be. However a Will can beunderway for thefor distribution of the estate, members

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worded to provide that a gift ofare looking and theforward estate cantothen Estate Practitioners, the thebechallengeand along % of the of your estate divided as if the Will hadover been the Cotswold leading professional body in AMD Solicitors are very 10 pleased tovalue support with some beautiful views at that time is given to a charity made in these terms. A Deed of this field. We offer a free initial the charity as Great Western Air Ambulance countryside. or charities of your choice. The Variation could therefore provide consultation for new clients. helps to save lives across Bristol, B&NES, effect of this will be that the rate It remains that 10 %toofbe theseen estatewhether is to passPaddington For advice on administration South Gloucestershire, North Somerset of Inheritance Tax payable on will the just to be a chosen charity or charities, a mascot or will be partaking the trusts, wills, powers of in estates, whole estate is reduced from 40 making the estate as a whole Gloucestershire, and parts of Wiltshire by walk, but either way he remains a good of boy. attorney and all private client % toto 36people %. reduced rate of providing emergency care at the Theeligible team for arethe aiming to raise £1,750issues, for ourcontact Shelley Faulkner, In same circumstances, it Inheritance Tax. scene of an accident or has medical incident. Charity of the Year before June 2022. Florence Pearce and the other been calculated that this members of the team on 0117 change the law details is They ensure the most sick and injured people would likeinfurther regarding reduction in the tax bill can serve If youThis 9621205, email probate@ clearly very good news both to leave thethe estate, in our shared community receive besteven afterour fundraising efforts for GWAAC or to sponsor amdsolicitors.com or call in for charities, and potentially for of theasgift to charity, our team, visit our fundraising page at: at possible chance on theirpayment worst day; a result 15 The Mall Clifton, or 100 https:// some estates as well. However with a value as high as if the Henleaze Road Henleaze. of the skill and equipment this specialist team greatwesternairambulance.enthuse.com/cf/ By Shelley the detail of the application can gift had not been made. Thus be complex. For example, the by cash AMD bring to the scene, there's better it quite amd We also welcome donations or Solicitors takes pride in the agift can inchance some cases Faulkner, estate is divided different won't be their last day. literally pay for itself. cheque. Please visitinto one of our foursponsoring Bristol local, Bristol based depending on charities and this year is very solicitorFundraising with has startedEven andwhere our afirst big not offices‘components’ to donate, we have collection pots in allto be supporting the Will has how the property will pass to pleased been sale prepared in these terms,office or fundraising push was a bake where trainee cheques payable to Great Western the beneficiaries, in order to BristolAir branch of the Alzheimer’s AMD solicitor, Solicitors it may be possible take Aleksandra Wegera baked tosome calculate whether thebe 10 forwarded % test Society, Ambulance Charity will on. Wethe local branch of this advantage of this tax break. If been met.forTaking specialist national charity which works delicious macarons. These were eagerly bought wouldhas be grateful your support! the beneficiaries of the estate advice on the implications for to improve the quality of life of WHILE most us support by staff, friends and family of andof consumed agree, it is possible to effectively

your particular circumstances is a number of charities in our amend the terms of a Will within therefore essential. ifetime, it is perhaps not two years of the date of death. A surprising that a smaller number AMD’s team of experienced ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn choose to remember a charity 100inHenleaze Road, Henleaze BS9 4JZprivate client solicitors and up which sets out the family heir Will. Clearly the priority for15 The Mall, Clifton BS8 4DS practitioners includes full members’ agreed arrangements most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure hat the family wealth can be passed on to beneﬁt the next generation. However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is ntended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which iterally pays for itself.

people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com. 139 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2PL Copyright AMDShirehampton Solicitors 2 Station Road, BS11 9TT

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Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax

Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided hat at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity. Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death or Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

n NEWS

Author events for Independent Bookshop Week TWO events in independent bookshop week feature authors talking about their work. Emma Stonex discusses The Lamplighters, her mystery about love and loss, one of our favourite books of the year. The Lamplighters is a whodunnit, horror novel, ghost story and a fantastically gripping psychological investigation rolled into one. Cornwall, 1972 - Three keepers vanish from a remote lighthouse, miles from the shore. The entrance door is locked from the inside. The clocks have stopped. The Principal Keeper’s weather log describes a mighty

storm, but the skies have been clear all week. What happened to those three men, out on the tower? The heavy sea whispers their names. The tide shifts beneath the swell, drowning ghosts. Can their secrets ever be recovered from the waves? Emma Stonex is a novelist who has written several books under a pseudonym. The Lamplighters is her debut under her own name and has been translated into more than twenty languages. Before becoming a writer, she worked as an editor at a major publishing house. It takes place on Monday 20th June, 19.30. at The Eastfield pub, Henleaze Road. Tickets: £8.99, includes a paperback copy of The Lamplighters. Tickets are available at www.maxminervas. co.uk.

The second event concerns food. Kalpna Woolf and Miranda El Khazen to discuss the role of food in the community - how it can bring people together, provide employment opportunities, and improve our city. Kalpna Woolf is the founder of Bristol social enterprise 91 Ways, which aims to bridge the gaps between Bristol’s communities by encouraging people to share their personal recipes and food passions. In a 20-year career as BBC Head of Production, Kalpna oversaw food programs from the likes of Nigella Lawson, Nigel Slater and Rick Stein. Kalpna's book, Eat, Share, Love, collects 91 beautiful

recipes and the personal stories behind them ,from people associated with 91 Ways. It features mouth-watering dishes from often under-represented cuisines, including berberespiced Eritrean stews, fragrant Iranian saffron rice, fresh Sudanese salads and much more. Miranda El Khazen is the co-founder of Shorkk, sociallyminded Bristol business with roots in Scotland and Lebanon. They support Lebanese food producers by putting their premium, ethically-traded products in UK kitchen cupboards. This is on Tuesday 21st June 19.30, at The Eastfield, Henleaze Road Tickets: £5.00, redeemable against purchase of Eat, Share, Love. Tickets are available at www.maxminervas.co.uk

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

Long Covid cases in region top 12,500 THE number of Bristolians thought to have long Covid is “frightening”, say health bosses. An estimated 12,580 city residents have the condition, recently described by a support group founder as the “biggest mass disabling event in history”. It has about 200 different symptoms and affects a disproportionately high number of people who are white, female or of working age, a meeting of Bristol health & wellbeing board was told. Members were told that services had been developed for sufferers in the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) CCG area and hundreds were on the waiting list. Bristol City Council consultant in public health Sally Hogg said the Office for National Statistics estimated that 1.7 million people in the UK had the condition – about 2.7 per cent of the population – which would equate to 12,580 people in Bristol. Jen Tomkinson, head of specialist services at healthcare provider Sirona, which is running the area’s long covid services with NHS partners, told the meeting: “There is a large proportion of people who report with this.In fact the numbers are frightening – 12,000 people in our area certainly gives me palpitations.

“There is a whole proportion of people who get better and don’t need treatment, and we are focused on those who have reported with it for 12 weeks. “We know there are certain groups of people who are more at risk. It seems to be working-age women aged 30-69, people who have another long-term condition such as respiratory or heart disease, people who live in more deprived areas and those who are working in education and health and social care, which is probably more about exposure than anything.” The board was told two-thirds of people referred were women.

She said it was a new, novel disease so they had not known what the symptoms would be, and that it turned out there were about 200 of them. Half of sufferers experienced fatigue, onethird had either shortness of breath or loss of smell, while one in four described a loss in concentration or their sense of taste. “There are a myriad of symptoms – muscle pain, difficulty with word-finding – but it also has a really large impact on people’s lives, such as finding it hard to exercise, lacking confidence to drive, lacking energy to parent or be a carer if they have children,” she said. Ms Tomkinson said that when the services were being developed last spring, people with long Covid felt like many employers did not believe them. “So some of the work we’ve done is to make sure it can be recognised,” she said. “We have received 1,400 referrals so far, mostly from primary care. We have a significant waiting list with 400 people.” She said Sirona directed patients to appropriate providers, such as the specialist ME fatigue unit at North Bristol NHS Trust which runs Southmead Hospital. By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Get your booster jab HEALTH leaders are urging those aged 12 and over who have a weakened immune system, due to a condition or treatment plan, to come forward for their potentially life-saving Covid-19 spring booster vaccination. Those eligible should book an appointment for when they reach six months (182 days) after their first booster. This will top up their immunity against the virus. Those eligible include people with: • a blood cancer (such as leukaemia or lymphoma) • a weakened immune system due to a treatment (such as high dose steroid medicine, biological therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy) • an organ or bone marrow transplant • a condition that means you have a very high risk of getting infections • a condition or treatment your specialist advises makes you eligible for a third dose.

If you are unsure when you had your first booster dose please check your appointment card, download the NHS app that includes your vaccination history or call NHS 119. To book an appointment visit the National Booking System website or call 119. There are several ways to prove eligibility at your appointment: • Take a letter from a GP team or specialist inviting you for a vaccine • Take a hospital or GP letter about your medication or treatment • Take a prescription or medication box with your name and date on it. Spring boosters are also available for those aged 75 and over and residents in older adult care homes. Only half of those who are eligible in the South West have so far had their spring booster vaccinations.

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June, 2022

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News and views from our city councillors Geoff Gollop (Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze) • Poor quality of work on Council conk tracts continues to be a problem. Wor and should be done properly first time ed poor-quality work should not be sign aoff. If you see an example of unaccept , know me let se ble work plea Wal• As an example, the pavements in ced repla were ue Aven liscote Road and good a is e ther dy alrea but , year last the selection of weeds growing through at me for done was work that If . gaps ppy. home, I would have been very unha t wha t abou tions ques g askin I am the quality assurance took place before . paid was r racto cont en• A year ago, Kenton Mews and Rem d. rface resu were leaze Hen in e ham Driv

In both cases I made complaints on was behalf of residents because the work ers Offic cil Coun lly, Initia unacceptable. tudenied there was a problem but even on r acto cont the with ting ally, after mee ld site, it was agreed that the roads wou be resurfaced without further charge. to Now, a year later, one road is surfaced r is othe the but , dard stan le ptab acce an re still in a worse state than it was in befo the first resurfacing was done. cil • Council Tax rebate. If you pay Coun t Tax in bands A-D and you pay by direc ived rece have dy alrea ld shou debit, you your £150 Council Tax rebate by the last week in May. If you are in those you bands but don’t pay by direct debit, and site web cil Coun the visit to need the complete an online form, or contact citizen service centre 0117 922 2000 • L ike my colleagues (and many of my m opponents!), I welcome the referendu or. May ted elec the on scrap decision to This vote will help to make decision

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Arts trail set for summer return

AFTER a couple of years of disruption due to the pandemic, the BS9 Arts Trail is back in its usual summer slot in the Bristol art calendar. This year, 88 artists will be showing their work over the weekend of June 18-19. This year’s event is supported by solicitors, VWV. The trail takes place in 13 fantastic venues around Henleaze, Stoke Bishop and Westbury-on-Trym. Take a summer walk around the BS9 postcode and discover amazing buildings in stunning locations, including Trinity College, Redmaids' High and Badminton schools and tucked away Trymwood Studios. There are also new venues such as Bradbury Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, and the We Make Bristol shop in Westbury Village. The artists taking part in the trail are passionate about their work. Some are amateurs who make their work as part of their hobby, while others are established professional artists, whose work is shown in galleries around the country. The work on show includes paintings, prints, drawings, illustration, photography, digital art, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery and more. There will be something to suit all budgets, from unique original art works to more affordable prints and cards. There's a real sense of community here, so come out of the city and enjoy a summer stroll in BS9. There are good bus routes (1, 2, 3, 4) and it's a great area for cycling and walking, with the Downs and Blaise nearby. Several venues offer refreshments, which not only provide welcome breaks in your journey, but help with fundraising for local good causes raising £2,000 in 2021. For more detailed information about artists and venues, visit www. bs9arts.co.uk or pick up one of our brochures from cafés, libraries and shops in the area.

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making more transparent and more accountable. • It is not just Bristol’s decision making that is in the spotlight. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is rtant struggling to agree on a lot of impo ’s ority Auth the that nt issues, to the exte g external auditors are now expressin gh concern about it. I do not have enou space to go into the details here, but please email me if you would like to know more

Our ward zoom meeting is at 7pm y. on 7th June; please go to http://tin cc/WandHJun22 to book in. The next meeting will be on 12th July.

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

News and views from our city councillors Steve Smith (Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze) Referendum Result You will probably be aw are that in a referendum on the 5th May, people voted by 59% to 41% to change the way that the Council is run. The change won’t take effect until after the nex t local elections in 2024, but at that point it will change since 2012 for our be the biggest local governance. Although the change wil l remove the role of elected Mayor which wa s cre ago, we are not simply goi ated ten years ng back to the system that we had bef ore 2012. One change made ten yea rs ago which will carry on is that we now have one big election every four years to elect the whole Council together. I think this is a big improvement on the situation prior to 201 2 wh elect a few Councillors eve en we used to ry year, meaning

that the whole Council was in constant election mode and the balance of power kept shifting. The new change brough t in by the referendum is about wh o makes the big policy decisions for the Council. Prior to 2012 this was a Council Leader (usually the leader of the largest party) sup ported by a cabinet. At the moment it is the elected Mayor. From 2024 onwards those dec isions will be made by committees of Counci llors which reflect the political balance of the Council. We are starting work now on des igning the detail of that new decision-maki ng structure. Lord Mayor I am coming to the end of what has been an incredible year servin g as Lord Mayor of Bristol. I’ve tried to kee p this Voice column about local ward issues rather than my Lord Mayor role, but as it com es to an end I just wanted to say a huge tha nk you to everyone who has been so kind and welcoming to me as I’ve attended local events. I also owe a great debt of thanks to my colleagues

Sharon and Geoff who have picked up more than their share of ward work this year to allow me the space for my Mayoral duties. Normal service will be resumed soon! Stay in Touch We hold regular zoom me etings for people to stay in touch with us, ask questions or raise concerns. The nex t ones will be on the 7th June (you can registe r to attend at tiny. cc/WandHJun22) and the 12t WandHJul22). The meetin h July (tiny.cc/ gs start at 7pm and they usually last aro und 45 minutes to an hour. You can also contact me by email on cllr. steve.smith@bristol.g ov.uk, or phone on 07769 285266. I also try to post regular updates on my Facebook page at fb.com/ CouncillorSteveSmith. We publish regular email updates – please contact me if you’d like to be added to the mailing list for these.

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henleaze&westburyvoice

June, 2022

News and views from our city councillors Sharon Scott Falcondale/Henbury Roa d Junction In our recent ward zoom forum there was a concern raised about the proposed removal of the central refuge on the northern side of the lights. The question was raised whether the new lights were the type that can detect a pedestrian on the cro ssing which remain green until pedestrians have finished crossing. The Engageme nt & Active Manager at Bristol City Council has confirmed that the new proposed sign als will have the oncrossing detection so the y will extend the crossing time for longer based on the speed of the pedestrian crossin g. They have said that isla nds are not required for the pedestrian crossin gs at this junction as the new proposed cro ssing has an allround crossing stage wh ere pedestrians can cross in one go. The exi sting islands are only there to house traffic sign al poles for the traffic, and they are not fit for purpose. We will keep you updated on this. Bonfires I’ve received some case work regarding

bonfires. Bonfires can be viewed as an Councillors have easy and simple way to dispose of garden contacted the waste, but bonfires can cause considerable Council several times nuisance to local reside nts such as regarding the amount asthmatics who have bre athing difficulties, of signs being put people cannot open win dows on warm up by this company. days, people avoid usin g their garden, At the beginning of visibility of drivers on nea rby roads may be affected, the smoke the year the Council can make washing smell and fire can spread said they would issue and become dangerous. fines and asked for There are alternative wa the signs to be taken ys to dispose of waste such as composting down, but this was ignore and recycling. d. As a result of Garden waste can also be this, the Council are cur disposed rently in the process of through the Council’s of taking legal action against Green Waste them. If you collection service. see any of these signs up locally you can A bonfire can be a Statut rep ort it on the Council’s website und ory Nuisance er under the Environmenta fly-posting. l Protection Act 1990 which could then Keeping in touch result in formal action being taken by the If you need any help on Council where any matter to do an Abatement Notice is with Bristol City Counci served. Failure to l, you can contact comply to this notice cou me by email on cllr.sharon ld lead to fines of .scott@bristol. up to £5,000. Please do gov.uk or by phone on get in touch with 07584 182792. I also me if you are being dist hav e a facebook page where urbed by nuisance I post regular bonfires. updates: www.faceboo k.com/Cllr-SharonPrestige Patios and Dri Scott-10433537851413 veways (also known as Bristol Patio and Driveways)

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June, 2022

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With our British version of a summer fast approaching it's time to start thinking about the sun and possible holidays ahead. When packing for holidays or days out in the sun, one of the first things you think about taking is sunscreen. We all know now how harmful the sun's UV rays can be and how they can negatively impact us. We spend time researching the best sun creams for our children and ourselves. What volume of SPF to wear? 20? 30? 50+? Cream or Spray? Waterproof or non sticky? People put so much effort into protecting their skin from UV - but I wonder how much thought goes into protecting their eyes? The effects of UV light damage can be life-changing Although much of the UV light we are exposed to is absorbed by the eyes without any damage, overexposure to UV can build up over years and have a damaging effect on eyes and eyesight. Possible long-term issues can include cataracts. Cataracts are where the lens inside of the eye becomes cloudy in patches and can make your vision appear misty. Luckily enough there is a simple step you can take to protect your eyes in the best possible way and that is by purchasing UV400 protective sunglasses, wearing proper eye protection and a hat to block the UV rays. The science behind the sunglasses Ultraviolet, or UV rays are electromagnetic radiation from the sun. While invisible to the naked eye, UV light penetrates the Earth’s atmosphere and reaches your eyes (and skin) as UVA and UVB waves. Sunglasses labelled UV 400 provide almost 100% protection from those harmful ultraviolet light rays. The 400 element refers to them blocking wavelengths up to 400 nanometers - which includes the UV-A and UV-B rays. Your sunglasses should: • Block out 99 to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation • Screen out 75 to 90% of visible light • Be free of distortion and imperfection • Allow proper colour recognition, particularly for drivers. Lastly, don’t forget about protection for your children and teenagers, as they tend to spend more time in the sun. Choosing your sunglasses We have an array of sunglass frames including Ray-Ban with authentic Ray-Ban lenses (with or without prescription) and our other fantastic range of polarising sunglasses by Zeal Optics. These stunning polarising lenses eliminate glare, such as when you see a wet road in bright sunshine or when the visor in your car just doesn’t seem low enough. The Zeal range uses plant-based technology for superb optical clarity and visual comfort. Their frames come with discrete and comfy nose and side grips that activate as they respond to your body heat. No more sunglasses slipping down your nose on hot summer days just when you need to see clearly! If you would like expert advice on sunglasses, Billie-Jo our Senior Dispensing Optician can help you. If you have any concerns about your vision, please book for an advanced eye exam with one of our specialist Opticians Ginny or Marta. All can be reached on 0117 965 4434 or 0117 9622 474.

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June, 2022

FINANCE With Richard Higgs BA (hons) CFP FPFS Harold Stephens 50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3DZ T: 0117 3636212 E: office@haroldstephens.co.uk

What is Intestacy? When an individual dies without making a Will, they are described as having died intestate, which means that their assets and belongings (estate) will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. Currently, only 43% of adults in the UK have a Will. This means there are over 31 million people without a Will who are risking having their estate being left to individuals that they may not have chosen. They are also risking inheritance tax being paid on their death as they cannot control who ultimately gets their estate.

In England and Wales, if you have a surviving spouse or civil partner and child/ren and you do not have a Will, the law states that your spouse receives all of your personal possessions, known as chattels. Your spouse also receives £270,000 and 50% of the balance of the rest of the estate, known as the residue. The child/ren receive the other 50% of the balance of the estate. If your estate is worth less than £270,000 your spouse or civil partner will receive the whole of your estate and your children will receive nothing. If there

is no surviving spouse or civil partner, your child/ren will receive everything. Step children receive nothing, regardless of how long you cared for them unless you have legally adopted them if there is no Will to stipulate they should inherit. If you die intestate leaving no surviving spouse or civil partner, your estate will be distributed in a strict order from closest blood relatives to furthest. If there are no surviving blood relatives and no valid Will, the estate goes to the Crown which is called ‘Bona Vacantia’. This is just a brief outline of the rules of intestacy, which is a very complex area. Avoiding the issues that can arise is simple – to protect your estate and ensure

your intentions are clear and adhered to, organise your Will today for your peace of mind. To take advantage of our offer of a complimentary estate planning review, call 0117 3636 212 or email office@ haroldstephens.co.uk. Harold Stephens provides friendly financial advice in the local community on a face-to-face basis in a welcoming location at 50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, BS9 3DZ. The firm specialises in advising later life clients about investments and pensions, longterm care planning, inheritance tax and estate planning.

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