www.lewisham.gov.uk
Winter 2018
Fun and games Could you claim 15 hours of free childcare a week?
It’s time to shop Discover what your local independent shops have in store for you this Christmas
Home sweet home Find out what it’s like to be on the housing waiting list SELLADOOR FAMILY presents from
CBEEBIES
with
as
PRINCESS BLOSSOM
as
WIDOW TWANKey
It’s behind you!
Winter events
Panto returns to Catford’s Broadway Theatre
Christmas markets, wreath making and more
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I’m not asking for the moon,
just a chance to be part of your family
Find out about becoming a foster carer. Visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/foster or call 07747 475783
from
Winter 2018
It has been a busy few months in my new role as Mayor of Lewisham. I am lucky to be working alongside a strong team of 54 councillors and together we’re working to deliver the commitments we made in May’s elections. I’m delighted to report that we have secured £37 million from the Mayor of London to build new council housing. Too many families are homeless, or on our waiting list, and we’re proud to be building social housing again. We have been working to improve our green spaces and are creating south London’s first wild swimming lake in Beckenham Place Park, as well as installing drinking fountains across the borough. In the context of Brexit and the Windrush scandal, it has been especially important to show that the borough welcomes everyone. That is why we are welcoming a further 100 refugee families and becoming London’s lead borough for refugee resettlement. Finally, I have enjoyed the first eight public Mayor’s Question Time events and will visit every local assembly across the borough to meet residents and take questions. Please come along if you can. Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham
www.lewisham.gov.uk
BROADWAY THEATRE favourite
Welcome
Contents as
CBEEBIES
as
PRINCESS BLOSSOM
ABANAZAR
4 Community news 12 There’s no place like home 15 Christmas gift guide 18 Childcare choices 21 Panto returns to Catford 22 What’s on 30 Your council
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www.lewisham.gov.uk the home for all your local information If you cannot contact us online, you can call 020 8314 6000
et information about your neighbourhood, what’s on G and how to get involved Find activities for you and all the family Live in a controlled parking zone? Apply for your permit Join your local assembly – go to www.lewisham.gov.uk/ localassemblies for meeting details Get local news and information direct to your inbox – subscribe at www.lewisham.gov.uk/signup
Other useful contacts:
and
Lewisham Homes 0800 028 2028 • www.lewishamhomes.org.uk Local health service www.nhs.uk or NHS 111 spirit of the ring Police (non-emergency) 0300 123 1212 Thames Water 0845 920 0800 (customer services) James Tobias 0800 714614 (24-hour leakline) Gas emergencies 0800 111 999 as
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musical director
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JAMES BEAL
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FRI 7 – SUN 3
Editor: Kirsty Murdoch Graphic Designer: Nancy Yuill Photography: Liam Croucher, Ian Enness, iStockphoto.com, Nancy Yuill Editorial: 020 8314 7027 Email: lewishamlife@lewisham.gov.uk Advertising: 020 3869 2343 Issue 125 winter 2018. Printed by Sterling Solutions. Lewisham Council does not accept responsibility for goodsThe or Broadwa BOX OFFICE: 020 8690 0002 ONLINE: b services offered by advertisers. Please use your recycling bin when you dispose of this and other magazines.
community news
£37.7 million boost for new homes The borough received a huge housing boost in October when Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, awarded Lewisham Council £37.7 million to build 384 new social homes over the next three years. This new investment comes at a time when the borough, along with the rest of London, is facing a housing crisis. The growing population and lack of affordable housing means many families are being denied safe and secure homes. The £37.7 million funding will help the Council deliver Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham’s pledge to deliver 1,000 new social homes.
The recently completed Hazelhurst Court development
Don’t wait, vaccinate! Flu season is here but you can get vaccinated to protect you from the illness. Even if you got a flu jab last year, you should get another one this year as the flu virus changes. You can get a free vaccination to protect you from flu if you: will be aged 65 or over on 31 March 2019 are pregnant have a long-term health condition live in a residential or nursing home are a carer or frontline health or social worker. You can get your free flu jab
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Lewisham Life winter 2018
at GP surgeries, some pharmacies and participating midwifery services. Children aged two and three can get the free flu vaccine as a nasal spray from their GP or practice nurse. School children in Reception through to Year Four will be offered the vaccination in school. If you aren’t eligible for the free vaccination, you can still get vaccinated at participating pharmacies and supermarkets. The vaccine usually costs around £10. For more information, speak to your GP or visit www.nhs.uk/ fluvaccine.
Shop ‘til you drop Park for free while you’re doing your Christmas shopping at any council-run car park on Saturdays 1, 8, 15 and 22 December. Free car parking will be available all day at car parks managed by Lewisham Council. It does not include on-street parking, Lewisham Shopping Centre (which is privately owned) or Blackheath Station car park (owned by Network Rail). For a full list of participating car parks, visit www.lewisham. gov.uk/freeparking. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Send us your community news Please send your news to lewishamlife@lewisham.gov.uk. The last date to be considered for our spring issue, published at the end of February 2019, is 25 January. We cannot guarantee any submission will be included.
Council services at Christmas and New Year Rubbish and recycling collections Normal collection day Monday 24 December Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Monday 31 December Tuesday 1 January Wednesday 2 January Thursday 3 January Friday 4 January
Revised collection day No change Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Saturday 29 December Sunday 30 December No change Wednesday 2 January Thursday 3 January Friday 4 January Saturday 5 January
Normal collections will start again from Monday 7 January 2019. If the weather is bad, there may be delays to collections.
Customer Service Centre, Laurence House 25–26 December 27–30 December 1 January
Closed 9am–5pm Closed
Libraries These times refer to Catford, Deptford Lounge, Downham and Lewisham libraries. 24 December 9am–1pm (Catford, 9am–5pm) 25–26 December Closed 27–30 December Normal opening hours 31 December 9am–1pm (Catford, 9am–5pm) 1 January Closed Normal hours will start again from Wednesday 2 January 2019. For community library opening hours, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/libraries.
www.lewisham.gov.uk
Christmas tree recycling You can recycle your real Christmas tree at any of these collection points from 2 January to 28 February 2019: Hilly Fields, entrance in Hilly Fields Crescent Deptford Park, entrance in Scawen Road Telegraph Hill, Pepys Road/ Kitto Road entrance Talbot Place, Blackheath Mountsfield Park, entrance at top of George Lane Sydenham Wells Park, entrance in Wells Park Road Forster Memorial Park, top entrance on Whitefoot Lane Northbrook Park, Baring Road entrance Mayow Park, entrance in Mayow Road Chinbrook Meadows, Amblecote Road Manor House Gardens, Old Road entrance (you can’t recycle your tree at Manor Park). If you have a garden waste bin, you can use this to recycle your real Christmas tree. Just cut it into pieces no bigger than 10cm thick and 50cm long. You should remove all decorations before recycling your tree. You can’t put artificial trees in your garden waste bin.
Lewisham Life winter 2018
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community news
You’re hired! Apprentices are an excellent source of fresh new talent and an extremely cost-effective way of creating a flexible and committed workforce. Their skills can be cultivated and developed to meet the specific needs of your organisation over a relatively short period of time. If you are thinking of creating an apprenticeship in your organisation, Lewisham Council can: help you decide which apprenticeship is right for your business support with front-end recruitment help source an appropriate training provider offer advice and guidance about managing an apprenticeship, including resources for new managers give ongoing support once your apprenticeship has started. If you would like to offer an apprenticeship, email apprenticeships@lewisham. gov.uk or call 020 8314 6452.
Art with a heart Recent visitors to Lewisham DLR station will have spotted a freshly painted mural brightening up their commute. The mural was the idea of community project team Greening Lewisham, which received funding from Lewisham Central Assembly to make their vision a reality. Greening Lewisham commissioned Artmongers, a not-for-profit company that has created works of art across south east London, to design it. Artist Patricio Forrester from Artmongers sourced a team of 25 volunteers through social media to help him paint the mural over five days in August this year. Some passers-by were also inspired by the work in progress and offered to help out.
The mural’s design is inspired by the Saxon crown that features in Lewisham’s coat of arms and has been adapted in Lewisham Council’s logo into an image of people forming a crown with their hands up in celebration. The message of community and friendship in the mural is echoed in the accompanying plaque, which reads Unity, Harmony and Togetherness. Patricio said, ‘This is the mural that received the most positive feedback while we were painting. Hundreds of people passing by thanked us for what we were doing. Lots of people in cars were also beeping to encourage us along as well as travellers on the double decker buses who gave us the thumbs up.’
Zero to hero Two new ‘zero-waste’ shops have opened in the borough, with the aim of reducing single-use plastics and wasteful packaging. The stores both stock loose products, including dried grains, seeds, nuts and coffee, plus toiletries and cleaning products.
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Lewisham Life winter 2018
So grab your Tupperware and jam jars and head to Shop Without Packaging on Burnt Ash Road in Lee Green or Mission Green on Hither Green Lane. Call Mission Green on 07453 680879 or visit Shop Without Packaging’s website at www.swop.market.
www.lewisham.gov.uk
Catford goes to the pictures Work is underway to construct a cinema in Catford shopping centre where Poundland currently stands. It will be the borough’s first new multi-screen cinema in 20 years. The new complex will be home to: a 205-seat three-screen cinema showing blockbusters and
independent films a café, bar and live music venue recording studios a food court where independent local vendors will trade. Regeneration platform The Really Local Group secured permission from the Council to build on the site and plan to complete work in May 2019.
The development will add to the leisure opportunities available in an area currently enjoying a revival with new bars, restaurants and pop ups. It will also offer a creative hub for local makers and artists. Find out more about plans to regenerate Catford at www.lewisham.gov.uk/catford.
Something to wet your whistle Stay hydrated on your next visit to Ladywell Fields where a new drinking fountain has been installed. You’ll soon be able to refill your water bottle for free in Beckenham Place Park and the Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill, where water fountains are also being fitted. This follows successful bids from Lewisham Council and the Horniman Museum to benefit from Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London’s new city-wide scheme in partnership with
MIW Water Cooler and the #OneLess environmental campaign to reduce single-use plastic bottles. Together, the mayor and MIW Water Cooler have invested £85,000 in The London Drinking Fountain Fund. This will be spent on installing fountains at 20 sites across London. As well as giving people better access to drinking water when they are out and about, the initiative will help reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles and tackle ocean plastic pollution.
Gift your time this Christmas Christmas can be an isolating time for many people. Voluntary Services Lewisham (VSL) needs your help to make Christmas special for the borough’s most vulnerable people and families on low incomes. Using your generous donations of time, gifts and money, VSL provides food hampers and supermarket vouchers for families, older people and vulnerable adults, as well as toys and gift vouchers www.lewisham.gov.uk
for children and young people. VSL also provide transport and helpers for the Christmas day lunch run by Churches Together in Sydenham and Forest Hill for older and isolated adults who would otherwise be on their own. Last year, VSL helped over 2,400 people in need at Christmas time. This year, you can help by volunteering to pack hampers, sort goods, deliver hampers by car or help at the Christmas day lunch. If
you can’t give your time, you can donate: non-perishable food (such as chocolates, biscuits, canned food, tea and coffee) new toys and gifts for children and teenagers Christmas crackers gift vouchers and money to support low-income families. To volunteer or donate, call 020 8291 1747 or email bettina@ vslonline.org.uk. Lewisham Life winter 2018
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community news
A democratic and open Lewisham
Power to the people
Take part in the first full review of Lewisham’s local democracy in 16 years. Tell us how we can: l enhance
openness and transparency
l increase
your involvement in decisions
l promote
effective decision-making
Visit www.lewishamdemocracy.com to find out more and take part.
Lewisham Council is inviting the borough’s residents, community groups and businesses to take part in a review of local democracy. The consultation, which runs until the end of December, aims to: discover how the Council can become more open and transparent get more people involved in local democracy promote effective decision making. Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said, ‘With the Government cutting our funding by 60% in the last eight years, now, more than ever, we want our citizens to be more informed, involved and empowered to take part in council decisions.’ To take part in the consultation, visit www.lewishamdemocracy.com.
Creating corridors, opening doors Lewisham, Southwark, Lambeth and Wandsworth councils have secured joint funding worth £8 million to create a south London ‘innovation corridor’ that will provide workspace, business support and talent development. A key objective of the project is to help residents from disadvantaged backgrounds
access the skills and opportunities needed to benefit from higher value jobs in the creative and digital industries. The plans include work to bring retail units on New Cross Road back into use, which are currently owned by Goldsmiths, University of London, and develop them into enterprise hubs offering business support.
Continued support for refugees Local councils can get funding to resettle Syrian refugees who are fleeing war. In October, Lewisham Council wrote to the home secretary, Sajid Javid, to ask him to extend the scheme, which is only guaranteed until 2020. The Council has already welcomed 15 Syrian families to the borough and has pledged to resettle a further 100. To sign the petition to extend the refugee resettlement scheme, visit www.citizensuk.org/save_refugee_resettlement.
Living in a fixer-upper? If you’re a homeowner in the borough and you’re worried about the condition of your property, you could be eligible for a grant of £3,000 plus up to a further £27,000 interest-free loan to bring your home up to a decent standard. Your home is not decent if you 8
Lewisham Life winter 2018
don’t have central heating, proper insulation and a reasonably modern kitchen and bathroom. You can get the repair grant and loan if you meet all of the following criteria: Y ou have owned and lived in your property for at least three years.
You are over 18. You are on a low income. A member of your household is over 60, under 16 or has a disability or long-term illness. To check your eligibility, call 020 8314 6622 or visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/homerepairs. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Adam Abdullah and Nike Ajijola
News in brief One becomes two
Adam good job The 15th young mayor of Lewisham is fifteen-year-old Adam Abdullah. The Addey and Stanhope School student ran on a manifesto promising equality, accountability and support for refugees. He received 1,981 votes in the election. Adam said, ‘Young people voted for change. I promised that change, and I will deliver change. I’m looking forward to working with others to deliver help to those who need it.’ Haberdashers’ Aske’s Knights Academy student Nike Ajijola, aged 14, came second with 1,807 votes and was elected deputy young mayor. Adam and Nike will be in office for one year and will have a budget of £25,000 to spend on priorities identified by young people. Third and fourth place, and seats in the UK Youth Parliament, went to Kelis James-Kappo, who goes to Sedgehill School, and Abbey Manor College student Tanisha Barrett-Thomas. The election took place on 17 October, with polling stations at schools and youth centres across the borough. Over 9,600 young people voted, representing a record-high turnout of 58.37%.
A champion approach If you aren’t skilled at using the internet or technology, you are likely to earn £13,000 less each year than someone who does. To tackle this problem, Phoenix Community Housing, together with Lewisham Homes and Lewisham Council, has launched Digital Skills for Work. The year-long project offers jobseekers in the Lewisham borough one-to-one support from a trained digital champion. Amelie Konan, who benefitted www.lewisham.gov.uk
from one-to-one support, said, ‘I’ve learned a lot in such a short period of time. Everything is online today, so Digital Skills for Work isn’t just a benefit: it’s necessary.’ To learn how to use the internet or a computer, visit the Green Man in Catford on Wednesdays, 10am–12 noon, or the Old Town Hall in Catford on Thursdays, 10am–12 noon. To volunteer as a digital champion, email digital.champions@phoenixch. org.uk.
Lewisham Southwark College split into two separate colleges on 1 October. Lewisham College and Southwark College will each appoint a new principal and will continue to work collaboratively in some areas. The two colleges first merged in 2012.
Tell us a story Youth First, Lewisham’s community youth service, is looking for inspirational stories – old or new – about young people in the borough. If you or a young person you know has a story of success, inspiration or transformation, you can submit it at www.youthfirst.org.uk/ stories or email shalena.haughtonpeters@youthfirst.org.uk.
Do you back the Bakerloo? Extending the Bakerloo line through New Cross and Lewisham could mean trains every two to three minutes, faster journeys to central London and reduced congestion on trains and buses. Construction could start in 2023, but it’s not a done deal. Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, needs to get government approval and secure funding. Pledge your support for the extension at www.backthebakerloo.org.uk.
Knitting the community together Lee Green residents came together to design and create a large knitted mural that has hung proudly in front of the local community centre since September. Lewisham Life winter 2018
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community news
Patching things up Ann Schuman from the Lewisham Pensioners Forum is leading a boroughwide scheme to craft a friendship quilt that celebrates the borough’s rich historic and cultural heritage. Any individual, organisation or group of friends can get involved in the project, which is being funded by Lewisham Council’s Small and Faith Fund. The quilt will combine the work and skills of community members across the borough to create a fabulous wall hanging that will be exhibited in April 2019. It will be made from A4 landscape panels, and so far it features iconic images from around the borough, including the long-gone Deptford Mill, sumo wrestlers and, of course, the Catford Cat. To make your own contribution, whether it’s embroidery, painting, appliqué or mixed media, call the Lewisham Pensioners Forum office on 020 8690 7869, or visit Mauritius House, Lewisham Park, SE13 6QX on Mondays between 12 noon and 2pm.
Keep warm this winter Lewisham Council has joined up with Groundwork London’s Green Doctors to relaunch their Warm Homes, Healthy People project. The project will visit 250 homes over the next six months to help vulnerable residents keep their houses warm over winter and reduce their bills. You could be eligible for a free visit from a Green Doctor if you live in the borough and are either: aged 65+ on a low income living with a long-term health condition or disability. The doctors will conduct a
Donate while you decorate for Christmas If you’re thinking of buying a tree to decorate your home this Christmas, why not give the proceeds to charity? King’s Christmas Trees in Catford sells sustainable Nordman firs and donates all profits to helping the homeless. Every week they put on a three-course meal for rough sleepers
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Lewisham Life winter 2018
thorough house survey and explain ways to make your home more energy efficient, as well as installing free energy saving devices. They offer impartial advice on paying less for your energy bills, and can refer you to other services for more support depending on your requirements. One resident, 95-year-old Beryl Lowe, saved more than £1,560 a year after a Green Doctor gave her advice on energy saving, looked into alternative fuel tariffs and referred her to additional schemes and insulation services. To book an appointment with a Green Doctor, call 0808 169 1779.
in Catford and last year they provided 4,500 meals in total. King’s Christmas Trees sells over 500 firs each year and to celebrate their 10th anniversary, they are aiming to sell 700 this year. To order your Christmas tree online, visit www. kingschristmastrees.org. www.lewisham.gov.uk
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housing
There’s no place like
HOME We hear from two residents who have been helped off the housing waiting list into social homes run by Lewisham Homes
L
ewisham Council owns over 14,000 council homes. These are managed by their housing partners, including Lewisham Homes. Together with properties run by other social housing landlords, there are 33,000 social homes in Lewisham – that’s 28% of all housing in the borough. But over 9,600 people are still on the Council’s housing register. On average, families spend just over six years on the waiting
list before getting the keys to their new home. The Council helps people avoid homelessness while they are on the waiting list. They can help people start renting privately through deposit schemes or do home adaptations for people who are disabled. Sometimes residents become homeless and have to be housed in temporary accommodation, such as emergency B&Bs or hostels.
Irene Adul, Downham Irene was renting a one-bedroom flat privately while she was on the housing waiting list. ‘I lived there with my two sons,’ she explains, ‘so it was very overcrowded.’ Their home became uninhabitable and the landlord refused to do repairs, so they were moved into temporary accommodation. They had to move three times, so it was a struggle for Irene to keep her children in school. ‘At one point we lived in Croydon and my son’s primary school was in New Cross,’ she says. ‘It was really important for me to keep him there, as it was the one consistent thing for him at the time.’ But it was a long day and they had to wake up at 5am
Wilnia Cesaire, New Cross Three and a half years ago, Wilnia Cesaire broke up with her partner and could no longer afford her rent. With a three-month-old baby to look after, she went to Lewisham Council to help her find accommodation. Originally, Wilnia was put up in a B&B in Ilford, which was a challenging place to look after a new-born baby. Without much private space, she had to carry her son with her everywhere she went, even when she was cooking or going to the toilet. ‘I kind of had to readjust everything, it wasn’t easy, it was really hard,’ she says. Wilnia found it difficult being so far away from
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Lewisham Life winter 2018
her friends and family. ‘I wasn’t going out because I was so used to south east London and I didn’t know anyone from around there, so yeah it was a really lonely time for me,’ she recalled. Wilnia spent two years waiting for housing, including a stay at another hostel in Sydenham. Finally, in January 2018, she found a flat in New Cross. ‘I see a future at this home,’ she says, ‘a permanent tenancy means that I can make plans, it’s a lot different from the temporary accommodation. For me I see it as the light at the end of the tunnel.’
www.lewisham.gov.uk
Wood Vale
to get him to school on time. ‘There were days when I couldn’t manage it,’ Irene says. ‘We were all exhausted and my son would beg me to let him sleep.’ She had to take her other child out of nursery, but things got a lot better when they were moved closer to the borough. Now they are settled in social housing in Downham. ‘The children were over the moon when they saw they were going to have their own bedroom and a garden,’ Irene says. She even managed to keep her son at his school. ‘I believe everything happens for a reason and even though it was such a struggle, I couldn’t be happier now.’
Worried about homelessness? If you’re worried about losing your home, Lewisham Council can advise you about your housing options and help you find a home. To find out more, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/homeless. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Building for the future Today, thousands of local people find themselves in a similar situation to Irene and Wilnia. Unless more social houses are built, the waiting list will keep growing. In recent years, the Council has made social housing one of its top priorities. Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, has pledged to deliver 1,000 social homes in the next four years. Wood Vale and Dacre Park South are two developments completed as part of the Council’s new homes programme.
Wood Vale
Nine new social homes at the Wood Vale development in Forest Hill are now home to residents from the borough who were on the housing waiting list. The homes include seven two-bedroom flats, a onebedroom flat and a four-bedroom maisonette. They were built on the site of a former garage forecourt. Each home has its own balcony or garden area, and all have been let for social rent to individuals or families in housing need.
Dacre Park South
Lewisham Homes recently completed the first of two new blocks of social homes at Dacre Park South in Lee. Seven flats have already been allocated to households on the Council’s housing waiting list, with another 18 homes coming soon. The completed development will include maisonettes and flats with one, two, three and four bedrooms, all for social rent. To find out more about new council housing in the borough, visit www.lewishamhomes.org.uk/new-homes-map. Lewisham Life winter 2018
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Respect Aspiration Integrity Self-belief Effort We aspire for all individuals within our community to become confident, secure and caring learners who achieve personal success and develop a love of learning. Come to one of our Parent Tours of the school, every other Tuesday. Contact our office for more information. Lucas Vale Primary School Office 020 8692 4660 St Nicholas Street, London SE8 4QF lucasvale.lewisham.sch.uk
Work in south east London? Need a little extra this christmas? Crownsavers maybe your answer!
Apply for a primary school place If your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015 you need to apply for a school place by 15 January 2019. You can apply online at www.eadmissions.org.uk You can apply for up to six schools on your application. You should look at your nearest schools and use all six preferences. Get free email reminders, find out more about school admissions and see which primary schools are nearest to you at www.lewisham.gov.uk/primaryadmissions
Borrow up to £2000, over 12 months Total interest repaid £211.75 (20.7% Apr) We are a members savings and loans organisation for the working community, where we are owned by our members and operated for our members.
www.crownsavers.co.uk Contact us on 020 8698 2996 Or visit us at 6 Brownhill Road Catford SE6 2EJ Crownsavers Credit Union is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) – Firm Number 214295.
shopping
Gifts galore Stock up on gifts and goodies from your local independent shops this Christmas
Jumping Bean 45 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1EA ✆ 020 8314 4747
Recyled wool rug £20.99 Recycled glass vase £22.95 Pop-up origami £7.95 Fairtrade soap £7.50 each Storytelling card games from £11.99
Shannon’s Garden Centre 99–105 Stanstead Road, SE23 1HH ✆ 020 8291 1502
Leather gardening gloves £19.99 Hand trowel and fork set £11.99 Woodland insect box £14.99 Hedgehog Narcissi indoor planter £6.99 Ornamental metal duck silhoutte solar light £29.99
Antonio Delicatessen (formerly Gennaro) 23 Lewis Grove, SE13 6BG ✆ 020 8852 1370 Panforte £7.99 Spelt penne pasta £3.95 Organic tomato sauce £3.25 Handmade chocolates £9.98 Baci chocolates £9.49 Homemade panettone £15.98
The Emporium of Thrift Catford Bridge Station SE6 4RE www.theemporiumofthrift.com
Gin and tonic candle £20 Giraffe mug £6 Bobble hat £20 Flamingo jug £23 Small plant pot cover £15.98 www.lewisham.gov.uk
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shopping
Magi Gifts 193 Brockley Road, SE4 2RS ✆ 020 8691 1047
Caroline Gardener purses £14.50 each Gisela Graham canvas bag £12.50 Flip fish toy £20.50 Bathbombs from £2.20 Orla Kiely insulted water bottle and flask from £20.95
Bunka 4 Dartmouth Road, SE23 3XU ✆ 020 8291 4499 | www.bunka.co.uk
Avocado socks £11 Toolally half moon drop earrings £45 Moomin LED light £15 Painted door wedge £15 each Beer socks in a tin £8 each
You Don’t Bring Me Flowers 15 Staplehurst Road, SE13 5ND ✆ 020 8297 2333
Fashion Oracles £12.99 Wonder Women card game £19.99 Music Genius playing cards £8.99 The Writers Game £12.99 Matches £4.99 each Legendary Ladies £14.99
Crimson & Clover 10 Staplehurst Road, SE13 5NB ✆ 020 8852 2022
Soap Daze handmade soap £6 Hand knitted face cloth £6 Love Chocolate by James Cadbury £4.25 each Vintage silk 1970s scarf £15 Cotton pig toy £13.50 Mini oak chopping board £14.50 16
Lewisham Life winter 2018
www.lewisham.gov.uk
Kirkdale Bookshop 272 Kirkdale, SE26 4RS ✆ 020 8778 4701 | www.kirkdalebookshop.com
One Tree Hill to Brockley Green £19.99 Mini smart book light £30 Jelly Cat dragon £17.50 Young, Gifted and Black £14.99 You’re purrfect mug £10.99
Zenubian 136 Hither Green Lane, SE13 6QA ✆ 020 8265 4854 | www.zenubian.co.uk Organic candle in reuseable pot £24 Spice jar £14 Rings (glass/horn/wood) £2.50 each Homeopathic oils £18 Spun bamboo bowls and pots £8–£36
Waterintobeer 2 Mantle Court, 209–211 Mantle Road, SE4 2EW | info@waterintobeer.co.uk
Beer gift pack from £10 River Cottage Handbook – Booze £14.99 Prohibition sloe gin making kit £14 Beer making kit £40 Make a beer t-shirt £12
onetwofive 125 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9DS ✆ 07709 433394 | www.onetwofive.eu Roka rucksack £59 Fern wall clock £35 Leather bag £40 Scarf £20 Kew soap £6 each
www.lewisham.gov.uk
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children
Childcare cho The parents of three two-year-olds tell us about their experience of claiming 15 free hours of childcare a week
A good opportunity for the child and parent – Marialuisa ‘When my husband’s circumstances changed last year and we were eligible for tax credits, I found out that we could also get 15 hours a week of free childcare. The online application was fairly straightforward and we got our free childcare code straight away. ‘My daughter started going to Little Lambs Pre-school in Downham in February. Her 15 hours is spread out flexibly over
four days, which is great because my husband and I can drop her off and collect her around my barista shifts at Caffè Nero. ‘Since starting pre-school, my daughter’s English is much better. She says ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ more because she hears the other children say it. She’s learning how to eat alone and how to use the toilet. She has friends of every ethnicity and cultural
background and takes part in a lot of multicultural activities. When she comes home, she likes
The right kind of support – Jaqueline ‘I found out I could get 15 hours a week free childcare from our contact at Kaleidoscope (a children and young people’s centre). My daughter was born prematurely at 24 weeks, had early complications and then later on developed special educational needs (SEN). We applied for the scheme under the extended criteria, which includes children with SEN. ‘Finding a nursery that offered the right kind of support for my daughter’s needs was very difficult. I think I visited all of the nurseries in the borough before 18
Lewisham Life winter 2018
choosing the Bay Tree House nursery in Catford. ‘My daughter started nursery in April and goes for three full days a week. The nursery is just amazing! It’s really helping her to improve her motor skills, as well as her social and communication skills. She learns a lot from the other children as well. Even the professionals are surprised at how far she has improved. ‘The cost is partly covered by our 15 free hours’ entitlement, with a top up from me and my husband. If it wasn’t for the free
hours, we could only send her one day a week and she wouldn’t have the support she needs for her development. ‘Because of the free childcare, I’ve been able to study for my MBA in Leadership and Sustainability and I work from home part-time when my daughter’s at nursery. ‘Being at nursery has made a world of difference for my daughter. I’ve already recommended the scheme to another parent of a child with SEN who was with us in intensive care when she was born.’
www.lewisham.gov.uk
ices If you’re a working parent of a child aged three or four, you may be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week. Find out more at www.lewisham.gov.uk/ 30hours. to sing songs she’s learned. ‘I think the 15-hours scheme is a very good opportunity for the child and the parent. It means parents can go to work, and if your circumstances change while you’re claiming the free 15 hours, for example you find a new job, you won’t lose your entitlement. ‘The pre-school is my daughter’s world. She can’t wait to go in the mornings and she’s very happy.’
There’s help available for you – Kanama ‘When I was a full-time student, my childminder fees were covered by a childcare grant. I wanted to study at postgraduate level, but as a single parent I wondered how I would manage with childcare. ‘My childminder and benefit adviser both told me I could access the 15 free hours of childcare scheme because I’m on a low income. The free childcare has meant I’ve been able to keep my son with the same childminder he’s had since he was a baby. With my sister helping me as well, I can go to university two days a week. ‘My childminder has been like a second parent. The attention she gives my son is just great. He is generally a very quiet child, but when he goes there, he’s more focused – especially when playing with toys. She gives me feedback on his moods and behaviour, and she interacts with him constantly.
He’s also learning how to evolve in different environments all the time. And as a bilingual child, he has no problem expressing himself in English with his childminder and in French at home with me. ‘I’m originally from Belgium and I find that when it comes to education in the UK, everybody is given the opportunity to get on if you know what you want. Being a parent doesn’t restrict you from furthering your education, and it’s great that there’s help available for you to do that.’
Could you claim free childcare? If your child is two, or about to turn two, and you claim certain benefits or in-work benefits, you might be able to apply for 15 free hours of childcare a week. You could also apply under the extended criteria if your child: l has an education, health and care (EHC) plan l gets disability living allowance l is adopted. To see the full criteria, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/freechildcare. The free childcare scheme does not cover the cost of meals, nappies, sun cream, extra hours or trips. Ask your childcare provider if you need to pay extra for these. www.lewisham.gov.uk
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Available To Hire In SE13
Conveniently located opposite Ladywell Station, on the 122, P4, 484 and 284 bus routes. Within minutes of Lewisham and local amenities, we offer a light and comfortable meeting room for up to 20 people with wi-fi, projector, screen and flip chart.
Passionate about arts, culture and education?
To book and for further information contact: enquiries@rivolioffice.co.uk | 07891 061118 59 Ladywell Road, SE13 7UT rivolimeetingroom.co.uk | 020 3441 9030
Helping homeless people through the Jericho Road Project
Could you chair our board of trustees?
Freshly cut Nordmann Christmas trees, starting at £35. Collect locally or pay extra for home delivery.
Help make a difference to children in Lewisham.
Order now at kingschristmastrees.org or call 020 8690 5121
Get in touch: jane@leanarts.org.uk 020 8694 6622
Star and Garter
490 New Cross Road London SE14 6TJ
Childcare Services
Licensing Act 2003 Notice of application To extend licensable hours as below: Sale by retail of alcohol on/off the premises Monday–Thursday 23:00–00:00, Friday/Saturday 23:00–02:00, Sunday 22:30–01:00 Provision of late night refreshment Monday–Thursday 23:00–23:30, Friday/Saturday 23:00–01:30, Sunday 23:00–00:30 Provision of regulated live entertainment/recorded music Monday–Thursday 23:00–00:00, Friday/Saturday 23:00–02:00, Sunday 23:00–01:00
School Holidays & Half Term Play Scheme
Our Lady & St Philip Neri Church Hall 208 Sydenham Road Sydenham SE26 5SE
● 7.30am–6pm ● £22 full day/
£13 half day
● 4–11 years
(sibling discounts) ● Includes breakfast & afternoon meals ● Home pick up & drop service ● Term time – early start breakfast & after school club To book a place: 0800 024 8116, 020 8778 5312 or 07931 620917 clubinformation@littlediamonds.co.uk
theatre
Panto returns to Catford yeOshit SELLADOOR FAMILY presents from
CBEEBIES
BROADWAY THEATRE
CBeebies presenter and Lewisham resident Joanna Adeyinka-Burford talks to us about starring as Princess Blossom atPRINCESS the Broadway BLOSSOM Theatre’s upcoming pantomime, Aladdin favourite
as
as
ABANAZAR
This is the Broadway Theatre’s first panto in a few years – what can people expect? Panto is coming back with a bang! It’s going to be fantastic, funny and quite magical. I don’t want to give too much away, but it’s going to be a lot of fun and leave people feeling good and ready for Christmas. Tell us a bit about the character you’re playing I’m playing Princess Blossom. She’s going to bring a little bit of sass to the panto. She definitely won’t be a wimpy princess and she knows what she wants! Is this your first pantomime? Last year I was in the CBeebies pantomime, The Snow Queen at the Curve Theatre in Leicester. It was a different experience as it was made for television. You rehearse for one week, have one dress rehearsal that’s open to the public and then do two performances the next day, where it’s recorded for TV. Is it different performing on stage? It was great to work alongside talented CBeebies personalities. But the beauty of the theatre is
Get your tickets Aladdin is playing at the Broadway Theatre in Catford from 7 to 30 December 2018. To book your tickets, call 020 8690 0002 and or visit www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk.
with
does! as
WIDOW TWANKey
that you can feed off the audience reaction. Every performance of the show will be different, which is part of the magic.
Tell us something people might not know about you Even though I live in Lewisham now, I actually grew up in Hampshire, right near a chicken farm. It used to be very, very smelly but it was a lot of fun. Who would you like to work in the theatre with? I think working with someone really established like Morgan Freeman would be great. Perhaps I could play his daughter? That would be awesome. What do you think about the changes that are happening in Catford? I have family in Catford, so I’ve seen how much the area has changed over the last 25 years. There’s such a lovely community in the area and you can really feel it. Catford has a lovely vibe and I think the regeneration is a great thing. What would you say to someone who hasn’t got their Aladdin tickets yet? It’s such a good opportunity to have on your doorstep. So if you live in the borough, make the most of it. Bring your family and friends and get your tickets before they sell out! It’s going to be great. Lewisham Life winter 2018
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winter events Please add your community events to our website at www.lewisham.gov.uk/events. Free listings are published at the editor’s discretion. Our spring issue will include events happening in March, April and May. The submission deadline is 30 January 2019.
n o s ’ t a wh This information is prepared a long time before publication. Details of events can change. Please check before travelling that the information here is correct. Entertainment 27–30 November and 1 December Radiant Vermin
The First Knight Theatre Company bring to life Philip Ridley’s dark comedy about the housing crisis. 7.30pm, Jack Studio Theatre, 410 Brockley Road, SE4 2DH. £16, £13 (concessions). Suitable for 16+. Call 0333 666 3366 or visit www.brockleyjack.co.uk.
1 December A Very Retro Catford Crimbo Party
Retro festive disco with buffet, nibbles, bar and 70s and 80s Christmas TV room. Dress code is chic 70s or 80s with prizes for the best dressed. 7.30pm, The Broadway Theatre, Catford SE6 4TU. £16.50. Visit www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk.
2 and 15 December, 6 and 20 January, 3 and 17 February Dog-friendly meditation
A meditation session where you can bring your furry friend, or come on your 22
own, for a time of rest and relaxation. 10.30–11.30am, The Mansion, Beckenham Place Park, BR3 1SY. £10. Booking essential. Visit www.beckenhamplace. org or email alison@ animalconnections.org.uk.
SELLADOOR FAMILY presents from
CBEEBIES
BROADWAY THEATRE
with
favourite
as
as
PRINCESS BLOSSOM
ABANAZAR
as
WIDOW TWANKey
5 December Women’s choir concert
A concert featuring Vivaldi’s Gloria alongside more traditional festive music. 11am–12 noon, The Conservatoire, 19–21 Lee Road, Blackheath, SE3 9RQ. Free. Visit www.conservatoire. org.uk/events.
6–7 December The Cocoa Butter Club’s Winter Wonderland
The Cocoa Butter Club’s spirited soirée is a celebration of performers of colour. Discover burlesque, live music, erotic poetry and comedy wrapped in neo-soul, RnB, jazz, Motown and blues. 8pm, the Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG. £15 (adults), £12 (concessions). Call 020 8692 4446 or visit www.thealbany.org.uk.
Lewisham Life winter 2018
and
as
spirit of the ring
writer
James Tobias
director
musical director
RICHARD CHESHIRE
JAMES BEAL
choreographer
musical supervisor
JOANNE MCSHANE
MARK CROSSLAND
Aladdin, our rebellious 7–30 December FRI 7 – SUN 30 DEC 2018 princess and our larger-thanPrices from £15 (except Tuesdays and The Broadway Theatre, Catford life Widow Twankey. Will 020 8690 0002 broadwaytheatre.org.uk bank holidays) BOX OFFICE:
Aladdin
Pantomime is back in Catford! Fly on a magic carpet to the enchanting world of Peking where an adventure will unfold. Meet our brave
ONLINE:
these friends foil the evil Abanazar’s plan? Various times, The Broadway Theatre, Catford SE6 4TU. £20–21 (adults), £18.50– £19.50 (child or concession),
www.lewisham.gov.uk
Find out about becoming a foster carer If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, come to an event at Lewisham Council. You’ll hear about different types of fostering, who can become a foster carer and how to apply. The sessions are happening at Civic Suite, Catford Road, SE6 4RU on: 4 December, 6–7.30pm 18 December, 6–7.30pm 20 December, 10–11am 8 January, 6–7.30pm 22 January, 6–7.30pm 24 January, 10–11am 5 February, 6–7.30pm 19 February, 6–7.30pm 22 February, 10–11am For more information, visit www.lewisham. gov.uk/foster, call 07747 475783 or email fosteringrecruitment@lewisham.gov.uk.
Get children’s activities by email Sign up free of charge and we’ll send you details of family activities, events for children, things to do in the school holidays and more. Register at www.lewisham.gov.uk/ childrensignup
23 Lee Road, Blackheath, SE3 9RQ. £15 (advance), £18 (on the door). Call 07967 163247 or visit www.haventstopped dancingyet.co.uk. Christmas 70s and 80s disco and funk
Expect non-stop 70s and 80s tunes from DJ Kobayashi, plus all the festive classics including Wham, Slade, Wizzard, Madonna, and Mariah. 8pm–1am, Rivoli Ballroom, 350 Brockley Road, SE4 2BY. £16. Visit www.rivoliballroom.com.
£71.50 (family). Visit www. broadwaytheatre.org.uk.
8–9 December
8 December
Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies alongside a display of festively lit Christmas trees decorated by individuals, businesses and groups from the local community. 2–6pm, Church of The Ascension, Dartmouth Row, Greenwich SE10 8BF. Free. Visit www.ascensionblackheath.org
Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet’s Big Christmas Disco Ball
A fabulous night of 70s and 80s soul, funk and disco for people who remember the tunes from the first time around and everyone else who loves a good boogie. 7.30pm–12 midnight, Blackheath Halls, www.lewisham.gov.uk
Christmas tree festival
12 December Goldsmiths carols
An evening of carols from the Goldsmiths Chamber Choir, complemented by candlelight and traditional Christmas readings. The lunchtime event will feature local children. 1–2pm and 6–8pm, Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross SE14 6NW. Free. Call 020 7919 7171 or visit www.gold.ac.uk/events.
15 December Holst: Christmas Day
Sparkling music for the festive season with carols for choir and audience performed by Lewisham Choral Society. 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, 346 Lewisham High Street, Lewisham SE13 6LE. £10 (adults), £5 (students), £2 (16 and under). Visit www. lewishamchoralsociety.org.uk.
15–16 December Xingu Village
An immersive installation
about the daily lives of the Kuikuro people of the Xingu, an indigenous community of around 400 people from the very heart of the Brazilian Amazon region. 10.30am–5pm, The Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ. Free. Call 020 8699 1872 or visit www.horniman.ac.uk.
12–13 January Alice in Wonderland
Look through the looking glass this Christmas at a community pantomime production of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. 2.30pm and 7pm (Saturday), 12.30pm and 5.30pm (Sunday), Goldsmiths Community Centre, Castillon Road, Bellingham, SE6 1QD. £6 (adults), £3 (children). Email goldsmithsdanceacademy@ gmail.com or call 07966 873799.
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winter events festive food and gifts. Stay for the afternoon to enjoy a programme of live music, carol singing and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. 12 noon–6pm, Coulgate Street, Brockley SE4 2RW. Free.
2 February All-star superslam wrestling
See all your favourite heroes and villains at a brand-new action-packed family event. 6pm, The Broadway Theatre, Catford SE6 4TU. £16.50 (adults), £11.50 (concessions), £46.50 (family). Visit www.broadwaytheatre. org.uk.
9 December So Last Century Christmas Vintage Market
Tuesdays Laugh Train Home
Bringing the best live acts to your neighbourhood. You can see established comics, TV names and rising stars perform every week at The Honor Oak. 8–10pm, The Honor Oak Pub, 1 St German’s Road, Forest Hill SE23 1RH. £6–£8. Visit www. laughtrainhome.com/ line-ups.
Last Thursday of the month Corbett Women’s Institute
Bringing local women of all ages and backgrounds together to create new experiences and opportunities. 7.15–9.15pm, Archibald Corbett Community Library, Torridon Road, Catford, SE6 1RQ. Free. Visit www.corbettwi.co.uk or email corbett@wkfwi.org.uk.
Markets and fairs 30 November–2 December Cockpit Arts Christmas open studios
The perfect opportunity to buy directly from the best of London’s independent makers. Featuring weavers, ceramicists, jewellers and many other crafts. 1–8pm (Friday), 10am–6pm (Saturday and Sunday), Drake House Enterprise Centre, 18–22 Creekside, Deptford SE8 3DZ. £5 (advance), £6 (on the door). Call 020 8692 4463 or visit www.cockpitarts.com.
1–2 December Horniman Christmas market
Enjoy a very special Christmas shopping experience as the Horniman decks the hall and fills the museum with dozens of stalls and
products by local designers. 10am–5.30pm, The Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ. Free. Call 020 8699 1872 or visit www.horniman.ac.uk.
8 December Christmas textiles marketplace
A showcase of work from tutors and learners at Adult Learning Lewisham that will include upholstery, cushions, decorative textiles, garments and bags. Makers will be available to discuss bespoke items or commissions. 10.30am–3pm, Brockley Rise Centre, 2 Brockley Rise, Forest Hill, SE23 1PR. Free. Brockley community Christmas market
Up to 60 stalls selling a wide range of arts and crafts,
Happy Chanukah Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, will be celebrating Chanukah alongside the borough’s Jewish community at a candle lighting ceremony in Catford at 6.30pm on 6 December. Damien will be joined by Reverend David Rome from the Catford and Bromley United Synagogue, as well as local community leaders from other faiths. To RSVP, email derek.johnson@lewisham.gov.uk. 24
Lewisham Life winter 2018
A festive, hand-picked, lineup of vintage traders selling a wide selection of unique and unusual gift ideas for friends and relatives in the drawing room, dining room and atrium of Beckenham Place Mansion. 10am–4pm, The Mansion, Beckenham Place Park, BR3 1SY. Free. Email info@ solastcenturyfair.co.uk or visit www.solastcenturyfair.co.uk.
16 December Christmas at Beckenham Place Park
Bring the family down to Beckenham Place Mansion for a festive day out with a grotto, over 50 hand-picked independent stalls and live entertainment. 10am–4pm, The Mansion, Beckenham Place Park, BR3 1SY. Free. Email hello@ beckenhammarket.co.uk or visit www.beckenhamplace. org.
5–6 January
Fundraising bring and buy book sale Choose from thousands of books all in aid of the charity Crisis. Fresh stock each day, please bring as well as buy. 2–5pm (Saturday), 11.15am–4pm (Sunday), Telegraph Hill Centre, Pepys Road, SE14 5TY. Free. Email tamsin_bacchus@ hotmail.com. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Christmas Market Unique gifts from local designers and independent makers Friday 30 November, 5.30–9.30pm Late night shopping with music and mulled wine
Free entry
Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 December 10am–5.30pm
horniman.ac.uk
MOO SOOL ACADEMY OF MARTIAL ARTS SE6 YUSOOL
(Korean Ju-Jitsu) Learn to punch, kick, block, roll, fall, lock, throw & self defence
*FIRST CLASS FREE* Classes for all ages: 5yrs+, teens & adults
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Aspirations, Responsibility, Respect, Tolerance, Resilience and Equality are the anchors of our life at Grinling Gibbons Primary School. Come to one of our Open Mornings for new parents where you can tour the school. Contact our office for more information. Grinling Gibbons Primary School Office 020 8692 4907 Clyde Street, London SE8 5LW ggibbons.lewisham.sch.uk
E: info@moosoolacademy.com T: 07710 407021
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winter events Children and families
Pinocchio at the Albany
7.30pm for 7.45pm, Methodist Church Hall, Albion Way, Lewisham, SE13 6BT. Free, donation (non-members). Email tamsin_bacchus@hotmail.com.
2–29 December Pinocchio
Join Geppetto and Pinocchio as they meet all manner of characters including a very shady fox, a performing donkey, a terrible whale who swallows people whole, a talking cricket and an anglerfish blues band. 10.30am and 1pm (Monday– Thurdsay), 11am and 2pm (Saturday–Sunday), the Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG. £12, £34 (family). Call 020 8692 4446 or visit www.thealbany.org.uk.
8 December Horniman kids’ sleepover
Visit the Horniman once the public have left, and the walrus is tucked up in bed, to explore the museum by night at its first ever sleepover. 7pm–10am, The Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ. £60. Children must be accompanied. Maximum two adults per child. Call 020 8699 1872 or visit www.horniman.ac.uk.
15–16 December The Snow Queen storytelling
In this wintery fairy tale you will meet Kal and the Snow Queen aboard their sledge on the snowy journey to Lapland. 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm, The Horniman Museum and Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ. £1 (adults), £5 (children). Call 020 8699 1872 or visit www.horniman.ac.uk.
13 December Home Alone
Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals! Bring the family to 26
6 December Positive Ageing Council meeting
Hear guest speakers discuss key issues for older people. 11am–1.30pm, Civic Suite, Catford Road, SE6 4RU. Free. Visit www.lewisham. gov.uk/PAC. watch a Christmas classic at one of the last remaining original ballrooms in London. 5–7.15pm, Rivoli Ballroom, 350 Brockley Road, SE4 2BY. £8 (adults), £5 (children). Visit www.rivoliballroom.com
Centre, 41 Loampit Vale, Lewisham SE13 7FT. £7. Call 07904 313603, email info@ aimhighacademy.co.uk or visit www.aimhighacademy.co.uk.
14 December
Transform coloured paper into something magical with the art of Japanese paper folding. For ages 7+. 4–5pm, Downham Library, 7–9 Moorside Road, Bromley BR1 5EP. Free. Call 020 8314 9705.
Elf
The second in the Rivoli’s duo of Christmas film’s is Will Ferrell’s comedy hit Elf. 5–7.15pm, Rivoli Ballroom, 350 Brockley Road, SE4 2BY. £8 (adults), £5 (children). Visit www.rivoliballroom.com
Fridays Origami
16 December
Older people
Messy Christmas
28 November
A fun afternoon for children to think about Christmas with crafts and activities. 4–5.30pm, Church of The Ascension, Dartmouth Row, Greenwich SE10 8BF. Free. Visit www.ascensionblackheath.org.
Wednesdays Street dance classes with Aim High Dance Academy
Every child can become confident in their efforts and successes and learn dance and life values. 4.15–5pm (ages 3–7), 5–6pm (ages 8–12), 6–7pm (ages 12+), Glass Mill Leisure
Lewisham Life winter 2018
Lewisham Pensioners’ Forum AGM
Hear from guest speaker Chris Walsh from PAiL (Positive Ageing in London) plus gifts, cards and Christmas goods for sale. 10.30am–1pm, Civic Suite, Catford Road, SE6 4RU. Free. Call 020 8690 7869.
30 November The history of the Old Kent Road
An enthralling look at the people and buildings on this ancient route through Lewisham with the Lewisham Local History Society.
30 January Lewisham Pensioners Forum meeting
A day dedicated to your health, featuring speakers, workshops, a healthy lifestyle coach and massage and podiatry appointment (you need to book these in advance). 9.30am for 10am start, Civic Suite, Catford Road, SE6 4RU. Free. Call Tracey on 020 8690 7869 for stall booking enquiries and more information.
9 February Ageing Well in Lewisham celebrates 20 years
An afternoon filled with good food, taster sessions, and performances from special guests to celebrate 20 years of supporting older people in the borough. An opportunity to discuss what you would like to see from Ageing Well as it progresses into its third decade. 12 noon–4pm, The Talent Factory, 4–14 Barmeston Road, Catford SE6 3BH. Free, donations welcome. Visit www.ageingwellinlewisham. org, email ann@ ageingwellinlewisham.org or call 020 8698 3735. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Wednesdays Broadway Blazers
Two hours of drama, dance and singing based on the very best Broadway and West End musicals for people aged over 55. 1–3pm, The Broadway Theatre, Catford SE6 4TU. £6. Visit www.broadwaytheatre. org.uk.
Thursdays Yoga
Slow-paced yoga for 55s and over or for those wanting a more gentle practice. 1–2pm, The Sydenham Centre, 44 Sydenham Road, SE26 5QX. Suggested donation £1–8. Contact Rosie by text on 07939 914450 or just turn up. No booking required. Art class
Unleash your creative side at weekly art lessons. 10.30am–12.30pm, Ackroyd Community Centre, 42b Ackroyd Road, Forest Hill SE23 1DL. £5/£6. Call 020 8699 9009 or email epsp. info@ackroydcentre.org.uk.
Learn a new skill this winter Don’t wait for the new year to make your resolutions. Sign up for an adult education course now. To enrol on a course, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/adultlearning or call 020 8314 6959. Introduction to intaglio printmaking and plaster casts
Bridge the gap between sculpture and print by making impressions of etching plates using plaster casts. One-day course, 11 December, 10am–5pm, Granville Park. £41.40 (full), £26.40 (reduced and concessions). Make a silver clay ring
Learn how to work with silver clay and design and make your own ring. Use a variety of techniques to manipulate, texture, dry, fire and polish your design. One-day course, 12 December, 10am–3pm, Granville Park. £60.95 (full), £50.95 (reduced and concession). Spreadsheets for beginners
Learn the basics of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets in a practical workshop environment. Ten weeks from 7 January, Mondays, 7–9pm, Brockley Rise. £130. Choir practice
Fridays
Learn to sing and perform as a group with the support of a specialist singing tutor. Ten weeks from 9 January, Wednesdays, 10am–1pm, Brockley Rise. £138.
Movies for the over-50s
Clothesmaking workshop
Enjoy a film, meet new people and have some tea and cake. 1–3.30pm, The New Generation, 111 Wells Park Road, Sydenham, SE26 6AD. Free. Call 07875 091098.
Learn key skills and processes in garment construction, including cutting out, piecing together, fitting, stitching and pressing, plus the correct use of tools and equipment, understanding commercially bought patterns and choosing styles and fabrics. Five weeks from 10 January, Thursdays, 1–3pm, Grove Park. £68.
Lewisham Asian lunch club
A social club for older people and carers with an interest in South Asian culture. Join in for a tasty vegetarian meal, good company and a range of wellbeing and social events. 10.30am–2pm, Calabash Centre, 24–26 George Lane, Lewisham, SE13 6HH. Call Sabrina on 07704 256394. www.lewisham.gov.uk
Life drawing
An introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Explore line, tone, form, movement, colour and composition. Five weeks from 15 January, Tuesdays, 7–9pm, Granville Park. £69.00 (full), £44.00 (reduced and concessions). Contemporary dance
Express yourself through a combination of different dance styles including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet at a relaxed informal class for beginners and improvers. Five weeks from 17 January, Thursdays, 6.30–7.45pm, Brockley Rise. £31.25 (full), £15.63 (reduced and concessions). Fantasy cake decoration
Explore textures, modelling and colour to create stunning effects that bring your cakes to life. Eight weeks from 18 January, Fridays, 10am–12 noon. Granville Park. £104 (full), £64 (reduced and concessions).
Adult education centres B rockley Rise centre 2 Brockley Rise, Forset Hill, SE23 1PR lG ranville Park centre 100 Granville Park, SE13 7DU l Grove Park centre 33–335 Baring Road, SE12 0DZ l
Handknitting for beginners and improvers
Learn about stitching patterns, experimenting with colour work, circular knitting and knitting lace, equipment, pattern reading, individual project work and professional finishing. Four weeks from 12 January, Saturdays, 10am–1pm, Brockley Rise. £62 (full), £32 (reduced and concessions).
Lewisham Life winter 2018
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winter events Talks, classes and groups 30 November Timebanking with Macmillan drop-in
Practical and emotional support for people whose lives have been affected by cancer. Come along for coffee, cake and good company. 10am–12 noon, Rushey Green Group Practice, Hawstead Road, SE6 1JH. Free. Call 07544 996 722.
11 December Health talk: antibiotics aren’t the only answer
A lecture discussing the everdamaging effect of antibiotic resistance and highlighting other forms of treatment. 7–8pm, Lewisham Library, 199–201 Lewisham High Street, SE13 6LG. Free. Call 020 8314 8430.
18 and 19 December Christmas wreath workshop
Learn how to craft seasonal foliage onto a wire ring and embellish with festive decorations to create your own unique Christmas wreath.
10am–12.30pm (Monday), 12.30–2.30pm (Tuesday), Louise House, Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill SE23 3HZ. £35. Email workshops@ justsoflowers.co.uk or visit www.justsopopups.co.uk.
25 January and 22 February Lewisham Local History Society meetings
Entertainment and enlightenment guaranteed with historical talks from Mike Brown and Carol Harris. 7.30pm for 7.45pm start, Methodist Church Hall, Albion Way, SE13 6BT. Free, donation (non-members).
Fridays Help with job hunting and CVs
Book time with our careers adviser for help with all aspects of job searching and career development. Drop-in service, however you can book an appointment to avoid waiting on arrival. 9am–5pm, Downham Library, 7–9 Moorside Road, Bromley BR1 5EP. Free. Call 020 8314 9705.
Young people 30 November End of year musical showcase
Watch an evening of music showcasing the borough’s rising young talent with DJs playing your favourite tunes. For young people aged 8–19 years old or up to 25 with additional needs. 5–9pm, TNG Youth Club, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. Free but book in advance. Visit www.youthfirst.org. uk/music18, email info@ youreonlyyoungonce.org.uk or call 07932 904038.
9 December Catford comic and zine fair
Check out work from local artists and bring along your own artwork or zines for the communal table. 5–9pm, Blythe Hill Tavern, 319 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill SE23 1JB. Free. Visit www.millertown.co.uk/ cczf2018.
21 December TNG festive celebration
Enjoy Christmas dinner, presents, activities, performances and raffle with a chance to win some fantastic prizes. For families and young people aged 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs.
PAINTING & DECORATING
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5–8pm, TNG Youth Club, 111 Wells Park Road SE26 6AD. Free but book in advance. Call 07875 091098, email deniz.amoah@ youthfirst.org.uk or visit www.youthfirst.org.uk.
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays TNG gym
If you enjoy keeping fit why not join TNG gym? Workouts are programmed to suit young people’s individual needs. For ages 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs. 6–7pm, TNG Youth Centre, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. Free. Call 07875 091098, email deniz.amoah@ youthfirst.org.uk or visit www.youthfirst.org.uk. Table tennis coaching
It doesn’t matter how good you are, you’ll be trained to become the best you can be in this fun and energetic session. For ages 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs. 6.30–7.30pm (Monday), 5.30–6.30pm (Wednesday and Friday). TNG Youth Centre, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. Free. Call 07875 091098, email deniz.amoah@ youthfirst.org.uk or visit www. youthfirst.org.uk.
U-Keep Ltd Building & Construction Refurbishment Bathrooms Flooring • Kitchens Loft Conversions Extensions Painting & Decoration 020 8859 2516 07732 166150
way to the top. For ages 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs. 6.30–7.30pm, TNG Youth Centre, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. Free. Call 07875 091098, email deniz. amoah@youthfirst.org.uk or visit www.youthfirst.org.uk.
Tuesdays and Fridays (term time) Youth club
Activities include arts and crafts, sports, cooking, table tennis, pool, games and much more. Tuesdays 3.30–5.30pm (8–12 years), Fridays 6–8pm (13–19 years, up to 25 with SEN), Goldsmiths Community Centre, Castillon Road, Bellingham, SE6 1QD. 50p. Call 07580 777851 or email aminata.swaray@youthfirst. org.uk. Parents can register at www.youthfirst.org.uk.
Tuesdays from February Senior youth theatre workshop group
Young people aged 14–17 can discover more about acting, meet new people and try out new ways of creating theatre at this weekly workshop group. 6.15–8pm, The Broadway Theatre rehearsal room,
Catford SE6 4TU. Free. Call 020 8690 3428, email info@lewishamyouththeatre. com or visit www. lewishamyouththeatre.com.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays Wall climbing
Reach new heights and challenge yourself with wall climbing. Follow the colours or just find your quickest
THE MIDI MUSIC COMPANY AUTUMN 2018 SHORT COURSES
Affordable music classes for 11s-16s & adults at Deptford’s creative music hub in Music Production, MC/Spoken Word, Keyboard Skills for Songwriting, Choir & YouTube one-day masterclass. 2018 begins Term Term starts18th 15thSeptember January 2019 BOOK NOW at 77 Watson’s Street, Deptford SE8 4AU Call 020 8694 6093 or theteam@themidimusiccompan Email: theteam@themidimusiccompany.co.uk WWW.THEMIDIMUSICCOMPANY.CO.UK
Call 07875 091098, email deniz.amoah@youthfirst.org. uk or visit www.youthfirst. org.uk.
Wednesdays Boxing
Learn some new skills, stay fit and get boxing. For ages 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs. 6–7pm, TNG Youth Centre, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. Free. Call 07875 091098, email deniz.amoah@ youthfirst.org.uk or visit www.youthfirst.org.uk.
Thursdays African dance lessons
Learn all the moves with with Nii Boye, a professional dancer, singer and percussionist from Ghana. 7.30–9pm, The Moonshot Centre, Angus Street, New Cross SE14 6LU. £5. Visit www.iriedancetheatre.org.
Tuesdays and Fridays
Sundays
Parkour
Lewisham BMX club
Jump and flip with precision and smooth movements at a fun and structured beginners’ parkour and free running class. Ages 8–19 and up to 25 with additional needs. 5.30–6.30pm, TNG Youth Centre, 111 Wells Park Road, SE26 6AD. £4 a session or £27 for seven classes.
Watch the kids go off road at the BMX track in Beckenham Place Park. There will be equipment available to borrow. 12 noon–3pm, Beckenham Place Park, Beckenham Hill Road, Beckenham BR3 1UL. £3 suggested donation. Call 020 7993 9883.
your council Your ward councillors’ contact details For councillors’ surgery dates and times, visit www.lewisham.gov.uk/councillors or call 020 8314 6000 and ask for ‘operator’.
Lewisham’s directly elected mayor, Damien Egan, represents the whole borough. Contact him at damien.egan@lewisham.gov.uk or on 020 8314 6193. Bellingham
Downham
Lee Green
Sydenham
cllr_alan.hall@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_andre.bourne@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_octavia.holland@lewisham. gov.uk
cllr_chris.best@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Alan Hall (Lab) & 020 3441 7620
Cllr Andre Bourne (Lab) & 020 8314 9929
Cllr Sue Hordijenko (Lab) & 020 8314 8089
Cllr Coral Howard (Lab) & 020 8314 3600
Cllr Jacq Paschoud (Lab) & 020 8291 5729
Cllr Olurotimi Ogunbadewa (Lab) & 020 8314 7892
cllrsue.hordijenko@lewisham.gov.uk cllr_jacq.paschoud@lewisham.gov.uk
Blackheath
cllr_coral.howard@lewisham.gov.uk cllr_olurotimi.ogunbadewa@ lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Octavia Holland (Lab) & 020 8314 6686 Cllr Jim Mallory (Lab) & 020 8314 6964
cllr_jim.mallory@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr James Rathbone (Lab) & 020 8314 7524
cllr_james.rathbone@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Kevin Bonavia (Lab) & 020 8314 3721
Evelyn
Lewisham Central
Cllr Juliet Campbell (Lab) & 020 8314 9386
cllr_alex.feis-bryce@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_patrick.codd@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_kevin.bonavia@lewisham.gov.uk cllr_juliet.campbell@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Amanda De Ryk (Lab) & 020 8314 3789
cllr_amanda.deryk@lewisham.gov.uk
Brockley
Cllr Obajimi Adefiranye (Lab) & 020 8314 7053
cllr_obajimi.adefiranye@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr Sophie McGeevor (Lab) & 020 8314 3496
cllr_sophie.mcgeevor@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr Stephen Penfold (Lab) & 020 8314 8817
cllr_stephen.penfold@lewisham.gov.uk
Catford South
Cllr Abdeslam Amrani (Lab) & 020 3489 6110
cllr_abdeslam.amrani@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr Alan Smith (Lab) & 020 8697 5505
cllr_alan.smith@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Eva Stamirowski (Lab) & 07392 860305
cllr_eva.stamirowski@lewisham.gov.uk
Crofton Park
Cllr Tauseef Anwar (Lab) & 020 8314 9930
cllr_tauseef.anwar@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Chris Barnham (Lab) & 020 8314 9896
cllr_chris.barnham@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Pauline Morrison (Lab) & 020 8244 5315
cllr_pauline.morrison@lewisham.gov.uk
30
Cllr Alex Feis-Bryce (Lab) & 020 8314 3495 Cllr Caroline Kalu (Lab) & 020 8314 9387
cllr_caroline.kalu@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Silvana Kelleher (Lab) & 020 8314 3430
cllr_silvana.kelleher@lewisham.gov.uk
Forest Hill
Cllr Patrick Codd (Lab) & 020 8314 9095
Cllr Aisling Gallagher (Lab) & 020 8314 8043
cllr_aisling.gallagher@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr Joani Reid (Lab) & 020 8314 9963
cllr_joani.reid@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Chris Best (Lab) & 020 8676 9516
Cllr Tom Copley (Lab) & 020 8314 8224
cllr_tom.copley@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Liam Curran (Lab) & 020 8314 6937
cllr_liam.curran@lewisham.gov.uk
Telegraph Hill Cllr Paul Bell (Lab) & 020 8314 7047
cllr_paul.bell@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Joan Millbank (Lab) & 020 8314 6929
cllr_joan.millbank@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Luke Sorba (Lab) & 020 8314 9984
cllr_luke.sorba@lewisham.gov.uk
Whitefoot
Cllr Peter Bernards (Lab) & 020 8314 9927
New Cross
Cllr Janet Daby (Lab) & 020 8314 6915
Cllr Sophie Davis (Lab) & 020 8314 3493
cllr_brenda.dacres@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Mark Ingleby (Lab) & 020 8698 8562
cllr_peter.bernards@lewisham.gov.uk cllr_sophie.davis@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Leo Gibbons (Lab) & 020 8314 6916
cllr_leo.gibbons@lewisham.gov.uk
Grove Park
Cllr Suzannah Clarke (Lab) & 020 8314 6944
cllr_suzannah.clarke@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr Colin Elliott (Lab) & 020 8314 9878
cllr_colin.elliott@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Hilary Moore (Lab) & 020 8314 7886
cllr_hilary.moore@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Brenda Dacres (Lab) & 020 8314 9872 Cllr Joe Dromey (Lab) & 07736 667917
cllr_joe.dromey@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Paul Maslin (Lab) & 020 8852 1530
Perry Vale
Cllr John Paschoud (Lab) & 020 8314 3437
john.paschoud@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Sakina Sheikh (Lab) & 020 8314 7963
cllr_sakina.sheikh@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Susan Wise (Lab) & 020 3489 2790
cllr_susan.wise@lewisham.gov.uk
Rushey Green
cllr_bill.brown@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_louise.krupski@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Carl Handley (Lab) & 020 8314 6525
cllr_carl.handley@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Liz Johnston-Franklin (Lab) & 020 8314 7985 cllr_liz.johnston-franklin@lewisham. gov.uk
Lewisham Life winter 2018
cllr_mark.ingleby@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Jonathan Slater (Lab) & 020 8314 9981
cllr_jonathan.slater@lewisham.gov.uk
cllr_paul.maslin@lewisham.gov.uk
Ladywell
Cllr Bill Brown (Lab) & 020 8314 9821
cllr_janet.daby@lewisham.gov.uk
Cllr Louise Krupski (Lab) & 020 8314 8983 Cllr John Muldoon (Lab) & 020 3489 4640
cllr_john.muldoon@lewisham. gov.uk
Cllr James-J Walsh (Lab) & 020 8314 9948
cllr_james-j.walsh@lewisham.gov.uk
Members of parliament Vicky Foxcroft MP Lewisham Deptford & 020 8469 4638
vicky.foxcroft.mp@parliament.uk
www.vickyfoxcroft.org.uk Janet Daby MP Lewisham East & 020 8461 4733 janet.daby.mp@parliament.uk www.janetdaby.org.uk Ellie Reeves MP Lewisham West and Penge & 020 7219 2668
ellie.reeves.mp@parliament.uk
www.elliereeves.com Len Duvall AM London Assembly Member for Greenwich and Lewisham & 020 7983 4350 len.duvall@london.gov.uk
Birnbeck HOUSING ASSOCIATION
HOUSING FOR ADULTS ON THE AUTISTIC SPECTRUM
Is anyone in your family aged 18+ and on the autistic spectrum? Are they living with you, or in inadequate housing? Are you concerned about where they will live in the future? Do you live in the Lewisham borough? Birnbeck Housing Association is an organisation which specialises in housing for adults with autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. We are currently investigating the need for specialised housing for adults (18+) with these conditions, within the borough of Lewisham. Please note that at present there is no guarantee that this housing will be made available. At this stage we are simply wanting to gather information on the extent of the need in the borough.
If you think this applies to you or anyone in your household, we would very much like to hear form you.
Please contact us:
By post: Birnbeck Housing Association, Birnbeck Court, 850 Finchley Road, London NW11 6BB By phone: 020 8201 8484 or by email: johnsilverman@btconnect.com www.birnbeckhousingassociation.co.uk
A democratic and open Lewisham
Take part in the first full review of the borough’s local democracy Tell us how we can: l
enhance openness and transparency
l
increase your involvement in decisions
l
promote effective decision making.
Visit www.lewishamdemocracy.com to find out more and take part.