Westminster PLUS Essential information for Westminster’s older residents
Issue 26 – September 2015
Try something new on Silver Sunday 4TH OCTOBER 2015 – BOOK YOUR FREE EVENT OR ACTIVITY NOW
INSIDE Free Silver Sunday events Lord’s tour Theatre Concerts Afternoon tea
PLUS Book Festival Offers and discounts Autumn events and activities
Welcome and news Welcome to our special Silver Sunday issue of Westminster Plus magazine, packed with free events and activities for you to enjoy. Silver Sunday is hosted by local organisations who donate their time and venues so you can try something new, meet new people and find out more about the services and facilities available to you throughout the year. So please do come along and be part of the fourth Silver Sunday, which started in Westminster in 2012 and is now celebrated across the country. We will be visiting many of the events and look forward to seeing you there.
There’s still chance to apply for your Tea Dance tickets and lots of spaces are still available. The deadline is Friday 25th September. You can apply online at westminster.gov.uk/teadance or write to Tea Dance, 18th floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP. Please include your full name, address and telephone number. We hope to see you at the Grosvenor House hotel on Sunday 29th November.
Want to find out more about services in Westminster? Whether you need advice on how the Care Act will affect you, remaining independent through our Community Independence Service or simply finding out what’s on visit peoplefirstinfo.org.uk
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Councillor The Lady Flight Lord Mayor of Westminster and Older People’s Champion
Lord Mayor’s Office, 18th Floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP cllrflight@candhflight.com
Councillor Rachael Robathan
Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health
Cabinet Support, 18th Floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP rrobathan@westminster.gov.uk On the cover: Silver Sunday ballet class with English National Ballet
Welcome and news
Electoral register – confirming your details In August the council wrote to you to confirm who is living in your household. This is part of the national annual canvass to update the electoral register. Please follow any instructions on your letter to confirm your details. This will ensure you are included on the electoral register and will be able to vote in the Mayor of London and London Assembly elections in May 2016 as well as in local elections. If you have any questions about your form please visit westminster.gov.uk/ annual-canvass-2015 or call electoral services on 020 7641 2730.
Join Westminster Senior Citizens Forum Join Westminster Senior Citizens Forum for advice and information on the issues that are important to you. There are four lively meetings a year and the next meeting is at 2pm on 11th November at Westminster City Hall. For more information email westminsterscf@ aol.com or write to Westminster Senior Citizens Forum, c/o One Westminster, 37 Chapel Street, W9 2HQ.
Culture vulture Get the latest information on the cultural activities taking place in South Kensington including exhibitions, events and tours at discoversouthken.com Be the first to find out what’s on at some of London’s best cultural venues including the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal Geographical Society and the Serpentine Gallery.
Exhibition Road
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Try something new... ...on Silver Sunday with these free events and activities.
• Most events and activities are hosted free of charge and staffed by volunteers • They’re a great way to meet new people – lots of people go on their own • Go to as many activities as you like – there’s no limit • Check the listings to find out if you need to book • Carers of any age are welcome to come along to all events and activities but will need to book • If your first choice is booked up there are plenty of events and activities that don’t require booking – you can just turn up
Cllr Christabel Flight, Lord Mayor of Westminster at Lord’s Cricket Ground
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• New events and activities are being added all the time so make sure you check westminster.gov. uk/silver-sunday for the latest details.
Some events require booking and spaces will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so make sure you don’t miss out.
Silver Sunday is supported by the Sir Simon Milton Foundation. Please see page 13 for pre- and post-Silver Sunday events.
Event and activity listings Events and activities are free and take place on Sunday 4th October 2015 unless otherwise stated. The listings are in date and time order. Swimming lessons
Free swimming
Sunday 4th October 8am-7pm
Sunday 4th October 10-10.30am and 10.30-11am
Enjoy free swimming all day at Seymour Leisure Centre courtesy of Better.
Adult swimming lessons with a qualified instructor courtesy of Better.
Unlimited spaces, no booking required.
10 spaces, booking required.
Venue: Seymour Leisure Centre, Seymour Place, W1H 5TJ 020 7535 2020
Venue: The Porchester Centre, Queensway, Bayswater, W2 5HS Carly Oatway on 020 7792 2919 or carly.oatway@gll.org
Easyline circuits
Sunday 4th October 9.30-10am and 2-2.30pm
Tennis
Try low intensity circuits using easyline equipment with a qualified fitness instructor courtesy of Better.
10 spaces, booking required.
10 spaces, booking required. Venue: The Porchester Centre, Queensway, Bayswater, W2 5HS Carly Oatway on 020 7792 2919 or carly.oatway@gll.org
Sunday 4th October, 10-11am
Take part in social tennis sessions for players of all levels and abilities. Hosted by Better. Venue: Paddington Recreation Ground, Randolph Avenue, W9 1PD Ben Lett on 020 7641 3642 ext. 205 or ben.lett@gll.org
Radchanee Summasaki, 67, went along to the Silver Sunday English National Ballet dance class in 2014. She says: “I really enjoy the range of events. I did the ballet class as I like the exercise. I can’t dance but I still enjoy it!” Key:
wheelchair access advance booking required – contact venue
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Silver Circuits
Sunday 4th October 10.30-11.15am A seated or standing exercise class using exercise bands and body weight, followed by stretches and relaxation. Courtesy of Jubilee Hall Trust. 18 spaces, booking required. Venue: Jubilee Hall Gym, 30 The Piazza, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BE Kathy Wren on 020 7863 4007 or studio.manager@ jubileehalltrust.org
Guided walk: Parliament, Power and Politics Sunday 4th October, 11am
This fascinating walk takes in Parliament Square and Whitehall to give an insight into how the Westminster Village works and to look at the buildings at the heart of British politics.
Sunday 4th October, 11am
Come and have a look around the home of stamp collecting in a lovely Georgian building in the heart of Marylebone. Explore highlights from the collections in a behindthe-scenes look at the museum and archive. There are some stairs to climb during the tour.
NatWest scam awareness advice
12 spaces, booking required. Venue: The Royal Philatelic Society London, 41 Devonshire Place, W1G 6JY 020 7486 1044 or museum@ rpsl.org.uk
Regent’s Park health walk – and free pedometer! Sunday 4th October 11am-12 midday
It will also be fun with stories of scandals and plots, saints and sinners, and just a few references about goings-on at the seat of power!
A health walk exploring lovely Regent’s Park. Cafes and toilets are available in the park. Everyone taking part will receive a free pedometer and Regent’s Park fact sheet. Hosted by CLCH NHS Trust.
25 spaces, booking required.
12 spaces, no booking required.
Venue: Meet at Westminster tube station, just near the ticket barrier
Venue: Regent’s Park, Clarence Gate entrance. Please wait just inside the park, by the noticeboard
Book online at westminster. gov.uk/silver-sunday 6
Guided tour of The Royal Philatelic Society
marian.starrett@clch.nhs.uk
Ben Uri Gallery
Ben Uri Gallery at Somerset House
Sunday 4th October, 11am-1pm
Join the Ben Uri Gallery for a highlights tour of their Centenary exhibition at Somerset House, followed by an interactive iPad art session. 20 spaces, booking required. Venue: Inigo Rooms, Somerset House East Wing, Strand, WC2R 2LS
Emma Hollamby on 020 7604 3991 or emmah@benuri.org
Silver Sunday listings
NatWest scam awareness advice at Lord’s
Sunday 4th October 12.30-3.30pm
Chat to NatWest about how to keep yourself safe from potential scams that fraudsters carry out. Based on the ‘Little Book of Big Scams’ published in partnership with the Metropolitan Police. For people with tickets to Silver Sunday at Lord’s Cricket Ground only. Unlimited spaces, no booking required. Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, St. John’s Wood, NW8 8QN
Silver Swans at the Royal Academy of Dance
Sunday 4th October, 11am-12 midday and 12.30-1.30pm Have fun at a specialised ballet class designed for older learners at the Royal Academy of Dance. Classes aim to improve mobility and posture, develop co-ordination and raise energy levels.
15 spaces per class, booking required. Venue: Royal Academy of Dance, 36 Battersea Square, SW11 3RA
Rachel Tiley on 020 7326 8082 or rtiley@rad.org.uk
Dance for Health open workshops with English National Ballet
Sunday 4th October 11am-12 midday and 12.30-1.30pm Take part in these special dance workshops which will give you an insight into the Dance for Health programme to improve health and wellbeing. Choose if you would like to attend one or both workshops. 30 spaces per workshop, booking required. Venue: English National Ballet, Markova House, 39 Jay Mews, SW7 2ES Tube: South Kensington, High Street Kensington, Gloucester Road Rachel Ryan on 020 7581 1245 or engagement@ballet.org.uk
English National Ballet classes
Royal Academy of Dance
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©Open Age
Lord’s Cricket Ground
Afternoon tea, tour and intergenerational cricket match at Lord’s
Sunday 4th October, match takes place 11.30am-4.30pm and is available for all visitors to watch. Tour and afternoon tea at 11am and 1pm
A chance to watch an intergenerational cricket match and enjoy afternoon tea and a tour of Lord’s Cricket Ground courtesy of Marylebone Cricket Club. 125 spaces per tour, booking required. A £5 booking fee is required, fully refundable on arrival. Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, St. John’s Wood, NW8 8QN Yvonne Muigua on 020 7616 8589 or community@mcc.org.uk 8
Poems and Pastries
Sunday 4th October 12 midday-2.30pm
Anna Robinson, a poet in residence, shares readings from her second collection ‘Into the Woods’ before a light lunch. A Q&A session will follow where you are welcome to bring along your own poems! Hosted by Westminster Home Library Service and St. John’s Wood Library. 12 spaces, booking required. Venue: St. John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD Toni Barsby or Elaine Marsh on 020 7641 5405 or tbarsby@westminster.gov.uk
Open Age’s Eat, Dance, Discover: intercultural celebration
Sunday 4th October 12 midday-3pm
Come and delve into other worlds, discover new customs and make new friends with an array of information and celebration stalls by local organisations, tasty national dishes to try, cookery demonstrations and performances of national dances. 200 spaces, no booking required. Venue: Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ
020 7266 2776
Silver Sunday listings
Wallace Collection and Wigmore Hall tour
Chair yoga with Tim Killick
Sunday 4th October 12 midday-4pm
Sunday 4th October 1-2pm
Visit the beautiful Wallace Collection examining art works on the theme of nature followed by a trip to Wigmore Hall to create a piece of music together. Organised in partnership with Westminster Arts. This event is for people living with dementia and their carers.
Tim is a qualified and experienced yoga instructor. Participants will be shown how to do gentle and relaxing exercise while sitting in a chair. Hosted by Westminster Libraries.
20 spaces, booking required. Venue: The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 2BP
Kathryn Gilfoy on 020 7321 2702 or kathryn@ westminsterarts.org.uk
8 spaces, booking required. Venue: Paddington Library, Porchester Road, W2 5DU
Laurence Foe on 020 7641 4490 or 4496 or paddingtonlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
The Pink Champagne Sisters at St. James Theatre Sunday 4th October, 2pm
The Pink Champagne Sisters present their cabaret show featuring the very best of swing music in glorious close harmony. They will transport you back to the golden age of swing with fresh arrangements, tantalising harmony and vibrant choreography. After all, it don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing!
100 spaces plus 20 standing, booking required. Venue: St. James Theatre, 12 Palace Street, SW1E 5JA Call the Box Office on 0844 264 2140, visit stjamestheatre. co.uk or email boxoffice@ stjamestheatre.co.uk
Martial Arts and Tai Chi Sunday 4th October, 1-4pm
Watch demonstrations and have fun with martial arts and tai chi plus refreshments at the Chinese Community Centre. 50 spaces, no booking required. Venue: Chinese Community Centre, 2 Leicester Court, WC2H 7DW 020 7439 3822 or perry.fung@ccc.org.uk
The Pink Champagne Sisters
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Poetry reading
Sunday 4th October, 2-3pm Kate Gielgud runs the supported reading group at Paddington Library and is a trained actor. Participants will have an opportunity to participate in a poetry reading group with like-minded people. Free refreshments will be available.
10 spaces, booking required. Venue: Paddington Library, Porchester Road, W2 5DU Laurence Foe on 020 7641 4490/4496 or paddington library@westminster.gov.uk
Covent Garden Tour
Sunday 4th October, 2-4pm Come and enjoy a stroll around this fascinating area and hear some of the extraordinary tales of its past and how the area changed and developed. See London’s oldest theatres and meet some of the famous people who have lived in the area over the centuries. Courtesy of Then and Now London Walks.
25 spaces, booking required. Venue: Meet at London Central YMCA, 112 Great Russell Street, WC1B 3NQ Richard Cohen on 07947 120 439 or richard.cohen2@ btinternet.com 10
ENO Community Choir workshop
Sunday 4th October, 2-4pm Come and sing with the English National Opera Community Choir. Learn music from an opera in ENO’s coming season plus other fun songs. Sing alongside a professional opera singer from ENO. We welcome seasoned singers to those who just enjoy singing with others.
Afternoon tea and social Sunday 4th October, 2-4pm
Get dressed up for a glamorous afternoon tea at a top Soho hotel where you can get to know other people over a friendly chat. This event is courtesy of the West End Community Trust in partnership with the Firmdale Hotel Group. 15 spaces, booking required.
80 spaces, booking required.
Venue: Please call to find out more.
Venue: Dragon Hall, 17 Stukeley Street, WC2B 5LT
Tube: Piccadilly Circus
Bea on 020 7632 8484 or Baylis@eno.org
Viola at viola@westend community trust.org.uk or 07502 106 713
Beth Sheldon, 79, from Maida Vale went along to Pad Rec to play tennis as part of Silver Sunday 2014. She said: “It’s a great opportunity to get out there, meet new people and get active. I love being competitive and challenging myself so tennis is perfect for me. I’m new to the game but I like any type of physical activity. I also do weightlifting!”
Silver Sunday listings
Open House at Penfold Community Hub
Sunday 4th October, 2-5pm Visit Penfold Community Hub for singing, line dancing, therapy session, health talks, garden tours and free refreshments. Fresh vegetables and plants will be on sale. 50 spaces, no booking required. Venue: Penfold Community Hub, 60 Penfold Street, NW8 8PJ
Denis Kane at penfoldhub@ nhhg.org.uk
West End sing-along
Silver Sunday Tea Dance
Sunday 4th October, 3-4pm
Sunday 4th October, 3-5pm
Join Ben Stock, West End actor and Musical Director for a sing-along of West End favourites. Presented by the Society of London Theatre.
Come along to an annual tea dance with a live band, dancing and a sing-along, hosted by The Soho Society in partnership with St. Anne’s Church. Tea, coffee and cakes will be available.
60 spaces, booking required. Venue: Lord Mayor’s Parlour, 18th floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP Call 020 7557 6700 or email enquiries@soltukt.co.uk and quote ‘West End sing-along Silver Sunday’
50 spaces, booking required. Venue: St. Anne’s Community Hall, 55 Dean Street, W1D 6AF
Clare Lynch on 020 7439
4303 or clare.lynch@ thesohosociety.org.uk
‘The Fabulous Fifties’ concert
Sunday 4th October, 3pm
A concert presented by Connaught Opera and sponsored by City Bridge Trust. Free high tea refreshments courtesy of the Abbey Centre.
70 spaces, booking required. Venue: The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU Ian Corpuz on 020 7227 0650 or Ian.corpuz@ theabbeycentre.org.uk
Silver Sunday Tea Dance ©Iona Wolff
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London Bridge Trio plays Brahms
Sunday 4th October, 3-5pm Watch a free classical performance of Brahms played by the London Bridge Trio. 50 spaces, booking required. Venue: St John’s Smith Square, SW1P 3HA
Call the Box Office on 020 7222 1061 quoting Silver Sunday. The Box Office is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm
Cream Tea
Sunday 4th October 3.30-5.30pm A relaxed afternoon of a traditional cream tea in a friendly and sociable atmosphere. There will be live music and also short stories and poems read out throughout the event. 35 spaces, booking required. Venue: London Jesus Centre, 83 Margaret Street, W1W 8TB
Doris Khanes on 020 7637 0600
An interactive session to help you shop online from 3.30-4pm followed by a session on researching your family history from 4-4.30pm.
Venue: The Montagu, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, 30 Portman Square, W1H 7BH
Venue: Paddington Library, Porchester Road, W2 5DU
65 spaces, booking required. Venue: Cooper Room, The Museum of Comedy, The Undercroft, St. George’s Church, Bloomsbury Way, WC1A 2SR Bill Halson on 07770 281 746 or bill@playerstheatre.co.uk
30 spaces, booking required.
Sarune Lukosiute Kumar on 020 7299 2140 or sarune. lukosiutekumar@hyatt.com
Laurence Foe on 020 7641 4490/4496 or paddington library@westminster.gov.uk Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
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Courtesy of the Player’s Theatre.
Sunday 4th October, 4.30pm
Enjoy afternoon tea with a twist at this Mad Hatter’s Tea Party hosted by Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill.
9 spaces, booking required.
Sunday 4th October 7.30-9.30pm
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
IT support session with Owen Grey Sunday 4th October 3.30-4.30pm
An evening of Cancelled traditional Music Hall
Diana Matheou, 67, from Frith Street went to the Soho Society Tea Dance at St. Anne’s Church. She says: “I’ve lived in Soho for 44 years. I love living here; it feels like anything is possible!” Bob, 78, also from Soho says: “I’m not dancing today but I’m enjoying the live music.”
Silver Sunday listings
Pre- and post-Silver Sunday events
Themed sing-along Saturday 3rd October 10.30am-12 midday
Take part in a themed sing-along of popular and classic tunes with Westminster Music Library. 35 spaces, booking required. Venue: Westminster Music Library, Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Call 020 7641 6200 and ask to be transferred to the Music Library or email musiclibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
Friendship Matinee at the Royal Albert Hall: The Music of Bond
Friday 9th October, 3-4.15pm This year’s concert celebrates the 50th anniversary of James Bond and will feature music from the films, in partnership with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. 5,000 spaces, booking required. Cost: £5 per ticket Venue: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP 020 7589 8212
Silver Sunday celebration at Westminster Cathedral Sunday 11th October, 2-9pm Celebrate Silver Sunday with an afternoon of community singing, line dancing, cultural dances and ballroom dancing. Hosted by the Filipino Club at Westminster Cathedral.
150 spaces, booking required for groups of five and over only. Groups of less than five or people attending on their own can just drop-in. Venue: Westminster Cathedral Hall, Ambrosden Avenue, SW1P 1QW for groups of five and over only Jean Hawkins on 0752 171 5951
Computer skills training Sunday 11th October 11am-1pm and 2-4pm
Computer training in two hours with worskshops run by sesquis.com. 10 spaces per session, booking required.
The Second Half Career Art Exhibition and Sale 2015: A Celebration of Old Masters Friday 2nd October 10am-8pm
This event is an exciting and inspirational story of transformation and rediscovery of seven artists who all discovered the love of their craft over 50. These talented artists are a wonderful example of people who are searching for new ways to develop in the second half of their life. The Second Half Foundation have organised this event to support the work of The Second Half Centre. Unlimited spaces, no booking required. Venue: The Second Half Centre, St. Charles Centre for Health and Wellbeing, Exmoor Street, W10 6DZ
Venue: Imperial College London, Beit Quad, meeting room 3, Prince Consort Road, SW7 1PL Satya Crystal on 0780 325 8286 or satya@sesquis.com 13
Offers and discounts Our regular round-up of the latest offers and discounts across the city with your free Westminster City Save card.
Westminster City Save offers
20% off breakfast and lunch at Clifton Nurseries
2 for 1 Handel House museum tickets
Tel: 020 7289 6851
Tel: 020 7495 1685
Apply for your FREE card online at westminster.gov. uk/citysave or call 020 7641 6000.
Save at the Quince Tree café at Clifton Nurseries, London’s oldest garden centre.
Visit the address where Handel composed some of the greatest music in history.
New offers are added each week so please check online for the latest offers. Brochures are available in libraries.
How to claim: Present your card before ordering.
How to claim: Present your card when buying your tickets.
Venue: 5A Clifton Villas, W9 2PH
Venue: 25 Brook Street, W1K 4HB
20% off at New Diwan I Am Tel: 020 7935 5864 Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine at this Marylebone restaurant. How to claim: Present your card before ordering. Venue: 43 Chiltern Street, W1U 6LS Quince Tree café at Clifton Nurseries
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Free services and discounts for Westminster residents
Offers and discounts
FREE
Get out and about with free tickets to Eaton Square Concerts
Join our free Out and About scheme for residents aged 65 and over and their carers to receive complimentary tickets to cultural events. 30% off tickets to War Horse Tel: 020 7400 1234 Experience the unforgettable journey of War Horse at the New London Theatre. How to claim: Visit westminstercc. entix.com or call 020 7400 1234. Valid until: February 2016
20% off your bill at Verdi Italian Tel: 020 7070 4401 Delicious stone baked pizzas, pasta, desserts and children’s dishes at the Royal Albert Hall. Valid TuesdayFriday 12 midday-4pm. How to claim: Present your card before ordering.
Eaton Square Concerts – 20 free tickets per concert St. Peter’s Eaton Square is home to high quality chamber music from early music to contemporary choral works. We have free tickets to this new series of concerts featuring some of today’s finest established musicians and young stars. If you require two tickets please submit the name of your guest when you apply. All performances start at 7.30pm.
Sacconi Quartet Thursday 8th October Sitkovetsky Piano Trio Thursday 15th October Julian Bliss, clarinet Thursday 5th November To join Out and About or to claim the tickets contact the council’s Cultural Partnerships Team on 020 7641 2409 or visit westminster.gov. uk/outandabout to find out more. Tickets are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Janina Fialkowska, worldrenowned Chopin specialist Thursday 1st October
Valid until: 30th December 2015
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Be clear on cancer One in three women who get breast cancer are over 70. Finding it early makes it more treatable. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in England with around 41,200 people diagnosed each year. The older you are, the more likely you are to get it. Finding it early could save your life and one way to detect it is through breast screening. Every month around 21,600 women aged over 70 are screened across the UK, make sure you’re one of them. If you’re over 70, you can ask for a free screening every three years which can be booked through your GP or get in touch with your local breast screening unit to make an appointment. Find your nearest GP at nhs.uk/ find or breast screening unit at nhs.uk/breastscreening
“Like many women over 70, I don’t tend to look at my breasts very often. But when I spotted some changes to my breast in April 2012, I knew I needed to act quickly. One of my nipples and the skin underneath had changed, so I made an appointment to see my doctor straight away. I was sent for tests and diagnosed with breast cancer. I didn’t realise that the older you are, the more likely you are to get it. Thanks to treatment, my tumour was successfully removed. “I’m so glad I acted quickly. I would urge other women to be aware of changes to their breasts. If you notice something out of the ordinary, visit your doctor straight away.”
Margaret Underwood, 76
For more information about breast cancer visit nhs.uk/ breastcancer70 or if you want to talk in confidence, call Cancer Research UK on Freephone 0808 800 4040. 16
Health
A lump isn’t the only sign of breast cancer.
Free flu jab
If you notice any changes to your breasts, tell your doctor straight away. You’re not wasting anyone’s time – it’s much better to be sure.
If you have a long-term health condition or are aged 65 or over, flu could make you seriously ill and complications such as pneumonia are more likely. It’s recommended that you have a flu vaccine every year to protect yourself. It’s free on the NHS for everyone aged 65 and over and available from your GP.
It is important to get to know how your breasts look and feel normally, so that you’ll find it easier to spot something unusual. Feel the whole of your breasts and your armpits. Does anything seem different? Look at your breasts in the mirror. Do they appear to have changed at all? Possible signs of breast cancer include: • a lump or thickening in your breast or armpit • changes to the skin of your breast • changes in the shape or size of your breast • nipple changes or discharge • pain in your breast • any other unusual or persistent changes to your breasts.
There’s lots going on at your local library including health information and advice. Thursday 15th October 12 midday-2pm Westminster Reference Library. Get the support you need to stop smoking during Stoptober. Thursday 22nd October 12 midday-2pm, Pimlico Library. Have your blood pressure checked. Thursday 29th October 12.30-3.30pm, Paddington Library. Come along for a massage and blood pressure check. Call 020 7641 6200 or visit westminster.gov.uk/ health-events-in-libraries for full details. 17
Keep safe from scams Make sure you know what to do if bogus stockbrokers try to sell you investment opportunities over the phone. Investment fraud involves bogus stockbrokers cold calling people to pressure them into buying goods such as wine, carbon credits and diamonds that promise high returns. In reality, they are either worthless or non-existent. Many of these cold callers target people nearing retirement to offer investment opportunities that are too good to be true. It is not unusual for victims to lose their entire life savings or pensions. Fraudsters will often claim to be at prestigious addresses in the City of London and Westminster to reassure victims their investments are sound, but they are using a mailbox address. These types of investment are unregulated and victim’s payments are not protected by the Financial Conduct Authority. 18
If you think you have been a victim of investment fraud report the incident immediately to Action Fraud, the Police National Fraud Reporting Centre, on 0300 123 2040 or visit actionfraud.police.uk
For advice about investments contact the Financial Conduct Authority’s Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768.
CARE VISITS AT HOME Good Old Fashioned Service
Call our professional team on 0207 976 6163
Our Services We offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or companionship. In fact, everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home, including overnight care and live in care.
Get in touch Call our professional team on
0207 976 6163
or email us at westminster@bluebirdcare.co.uk
www.bluebirdcare.co.uk
Hit the gym A free 12-week exercise referral scheme in leisure centres can help you feel strong, fit and healthy. If you have specific health problems or medical conditions and need support to become more active, a free exercise referral programme may be for you. It’s also suitable for people with a family history of diabetes or heart disease. The 12-week Exercise Referral Scheme takes place at five council leisure centres to support you whilst you increase your levels of physical activity. You can be referred by your GP, Practice Nurse, occupational therapist or mental health professional. Once you’ve been referred, you will be assessed and given an activity programme to suit your needs and help you to manage your medical condition. Your activity programme will include details such as the type of equipment you should use, 20
how often and for how long. You can choose to either exercise alone or drop-in to a supervised class if you would prefer support. Speak to your GP to find out more about being referred to the scheme. The Exercise Referral Scheme takes place at: Queen Mother Sports Centre 020 7630 5522 Little Venice Sports Centre 020 7641 5898 Porchester Centre 020 7792 2919 Paddington Recreation Ground 020 7641 3642 Jubilee Sports Centre 020 8960 9629
“I enjoy the weights as they make me feel stronger and fitter again.” John Wells, 74
Active
John Wells, 74, uses the Exercise Referral Scheme at the Porchester Centre in Bayswater. He says: “I was referred by my doctor because I was feeling down
and suffering from back pain. At first I was a bit anxious it would be a regimental routine but after a few days with Khalid, I started to feel at ease. He showed me how to use all the equipment
and we had a few laughs. I enjoy the weights as they make me feel stronger and fitter again. I’m going to continue taking exercise and go swimming and to water aerobics with my wife.”
Nominate someone for an ActiveWestminster Award Have you been referred to a fantastic health and wellbeing programme? Do you take part in an activity that helps to keep you healthy? Is there an inspirational sports volunteer who you think deserves recognition? Nominate them for an ActiveWestminster Award and you will be entered into a prize draw to win spa LONDON vouchers. Shortlisted nominees will be invited to an awards ceremony at the world-famous
Win LON spa vou DON che rs
Lord’s Cricket Ground in November. How to nominate Pick up a nomination form at your local leisure centre or Community Hub or nominate online at westminster.gov.uk/ active-awards
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Find your story From 2014 to 2018 we commemorate the Centenary of the First World War. Throughout the centenary of the First World War, Westminster Archives Centre is telling the fascinating stories of Westminster residents who served in the Great War. You can research your own stories of the First World War at the centre in south Westminster. 10 St. Ann’s Street, SW1P 2DE. Visit westminster.gov. uk/archives or email archives@westminster.gov.uk In 1914 21-year-old Charles Waller arrived at 56-58 Buckingham Gate, SW1 to volunteer for the Queen’s Westminster Rifles. Just a few months later he was on his way to France to fight in the trenches. It was in the French trenches that Rifleman Waller contracted jaundice and was sent back home to recover. He soon tired of being asked about his illness and posted a large piece of paper at the end of his bed demanding that no one ask about his symptoms. Once out of 22
hospital he relished being well, even managing to pick up a speeding ticket - for racing to speeds of more than 20mph on his motorcycle. By the summer of 1916 Rifleman Waller was back in France for the Somme offensive, one of the largest battles of the First World War. Along with 688 men of the Queen’s Westminster Rifles, he advanced into No Man’s Land on 1st July, the first day of the offensive. German machine gun fire took a terrible toll that day, wiping out the Queen’s Westminster
Rilfleman Charles Waller
Rifles, Rifleman Waller among them. His remains have never been found.
Westminster Remembers
Free events
Queen’s Westminster Rifles m Gate Headquarters, 58 Buckingha
Rifleman Charles Waller’s name is now among the 72,000 carved in stone and mounted on the walls of the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme in France.
The building at 56-58 Buckingham Gate where he first volunteered for the war effort remains unchanged, but is today Scotland Yard’s canteen.
Register for the 2016 Somme Centenary ballot To mark the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme on 1st July 2016, a national commemorative event will be held at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Thiepval Memorial in Northern France. This will be a ticketed event, and the online ballot for 8,000 free tickets will launch on 28th September 2015. somme2016.org
Women and the First World War Until 25th October, 10am-6pm, ThursdayFriday until 9pm National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin’s Place, WC2H 0HE This exhibition coincides with the 100th anniversary of the death of Edith Cavell, who was executed in 1915 for helping Allied soldiers escape from Belgium. npg.org.uk Remembrance Sunday at the Cenotaph 8th November, 8-11.25am The Cenotaph, Whitehall Commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and women in the two World Wars and later conflicts. britishlegion.org.uk/ remembrance
For more information on First World War centenary events visit 1914.org 23
Meet the authors Westminster’s second book festival launches in September at four libaries across Paddington.
Meet the authors at the Paddington Book Festival Join local authors and fellow book-worms for readings, events and discussions around these exciting new titles. Whether you want to meet the authors, discover new titles or simply find out what it’s all about, don’t miss out on the Paddington Book Festival. Visit westminster. gov.uk/book-festival or call 020 7641 6200 for full listings, booking details and to find out more.
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Festival highlights Helen Harris Maida Vale Library Monday 21st September, 6.30pm
Stephen Benatar Maida Vale Library Monday 28th September, 6.30pm
Author Helen Harris will be talking about her fifth novel, ‘Slyvia Garland’s Broken Heart’. The book is a touching look at family ties across the generations.
Local author Stephen Benatar, known for his individual approach to self-publishing his novels will be talking about his work which includes his 1981 novel, ‘The Man on the Bridge’ and his second novel ‘Wish Her Safe at Home’.
Penny Nair Price Paddington Library Tuesday 22nd September, 6.30pm Author Penny Nair Price talks about her novel, ‘Stinging the Devil’ – a whodunnit from a new and exciting angle with stories of love, revenge and coincidence.
Positive Tales from the Road, Paddington Library Thursday 24th September, 6.30pm Hear the tales of two women, Anne-Laure Carruth and Lucy Engleheart, as they travelled through North Africa and the Middle East.
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to Padding Book Fest ival
Barrie Stacey Paddington Library Tuesday 29th September, 6.30pm The author and entertainer will talk about his memoir, ‘A Ticket to the Carnival, which reveals British Theatre inside out.
Maida Vale Library Paddington Library Church Street Library Queen’s Park Library
Paddington Book Festival
Join a Shared Reading Group If you’re inspired by the Book Festival why not join a regular book group? The groups read short stories, novels, poems and plays aloud. There’s no pressure to read aloud, it’s up to you how much you want to participate. Paddington Library Weekly on Mondays, 2pm St. John’s Wood Library Second Monday of every month, 11.15am The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth A gripping plot involving a crazy chase across In honour of the Paddington Europe to neutralise Book Festival Laurence Foe, an assassin before he a Librarian at Paddington assassinates the Library, shares his top French President. five books: Barchester Towers by Anthony Trollope The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad It is refreshing to read a novel set in pleasant Set in Edwardian London, society in which everybody it reads very well with is nice to each other! interesting characters.
Church Street Library Weekly on Tuesdays, 11.45am Queen’s Park Library Weekly on Tuesdays, 3.30pm Maida Vale Library Weekly on Wednesdays, 10.30am Victoria Library Weekly on Thursdays, 10.30am To find out more call 020 7641 6200.
The Poisonous Seed by Linda Stratmann A crime thriller set in the late Victorian Bayswater/ Ladbroke Grove area. The Mapping of Love and Death by Jacqueline Winspear Novel about a young lady who becomes a sleuth/spy during the 1920s/1930s. Nostalgic setting in the inter-war years in London and surrounds. 25
Local listings Take a look at what’s on this autumn or call your local community hub for full details.
Westminster Music Library’s Joint Forces Singers Join the brand new community choir run by Westminster Music Library and funded by the Community Covenant Grants scheme. The Joint Forces Singers, a new choir that brings together members of the Armed Forces and civilians rehearses at Wellington Barracks every Saturday morning. It’s open to everyone and no you don’t need any experience of singing. To find out more call 020 7641 6200 and ask to be transferred to the Music Library or email musiclibrary@ westminster.gov.uk 26
North Westminster IT sessions Do you need help with you mobile phone, tablet or laptop? Senior pupils from King Solomon Academy are on-hand to help in these one-to-one sessions. They’re always popular so please call ahead to book. Tuesdays, 2.30-3.30pm Penfold Community Hub, 60 Penfold Street, NW8 8PJ Cost: Free Tel: 020 8762 3082 Low impact aerobics Wednesdays, 11am-12 midday Juniper House, Droop Street, W10 4QX Cost: £1 Tel: 020 7266 2776
There are 100s of free and low-cost activities at your local Community Hub or library each week.
Steady and stable classes Wednesdays, 1-2.15pm (high-level) or 2.153.15pm (low level) Portgate Hall, 19 Portgate Close, W9 3DL Cost: Free Tel: 020 8962 4537 Booking required Salsa dancing Wednesdays, 2-3pm Warwick Community Centre, 300 Harrow Road, W2 5HG Cost: Free Tel: 020 8962 5584 First Friday Film Club First Friday of the month, 2.30-5pm Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2 5EZ Cost: Free Tel: 020 3713 8737
Local Listings
Central Westminster
South Westminster
English Conversation Classes Mondays, 5-6pm Westminster Reference Library, 35 St. Martin’s Street, WC2H 7HP Cost: Free, but spaces must be booked in advance Tel: 020 7641 2600
Meditation Mondays, 10-11am St. Margaret’s Activity Centre, 1 Carey Place, SW1V 2RT Cost: £1 Tel: 020 7976 6354
Reading group Second Tuesday of the month, 6.15-7.30pm Marylebone Library, 54 Beaumont St, W1G 6DW Cost: Free Tel: 020 7641 6200
Mondays, 11am-1pm St. Margaret’s Activity Centre, 1 Carey Place, SW1V 2RT Cost: £2 Tel: 020 7976 6354
Yoga
Jewellery making Mondays, 2-4pm Glastonbury House, Abbots Manor Estate, Warwick Way, SW1V 4NT Cost: £2 Tel: 020 7976 6354 Singing for all Tuesdays, 2.30-4.30pm Darwin House, 104 Grosvenor Rd, Churchill Gardens Estate, SW1V 3DH Cost: £2 Tel: 020 7976 6354 Time for me Activities for unpaid carers including relaxation classes, and trips to museums, parks and art galleries. Wednesdays and Thursdays Various locations across Westminster Cost: Free Tel: Call Liz Sowden at Open Age on 020 8962 4536 or email lsowden@ openage.org.uk
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Adult learning in the heart of Westminster
WAES is Westminster’s adult college, offering full-time and part-time study in the daytime, evenings and at weekends. We offer a wide range of courses specifically for adult learners wanting to study in a friendly and supportive environment. Visit us online at www.waes.ac.uk, call 020 7297 7297 or drop in to one of our centres for more information.
Enrol now for courses in 2015/2016!