The Westminster Reporter by Westminster City Council

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CHRISTMAS 2012 Issue 110

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Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

CONTENTS

Covent Garden

6 Value for Money Friday 10 Top tweets 15 Recycling 20 What’s on? 30 Over to you PLUS Win theatre tickets on page 15

The Westminster Reporter is produced as part of Westminster City Council’s customer service programme. Cabinet Member responsible for Communications: Councillor Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council. The Westminster Reporter is delivered to homes and businesses throughout Westminster. If you encounter delivery problems, please call the communications team on 020 7641 8088.

Also available from libraries and leisure centres.

The editorial team: Phil Sawyer, Rebecca Jones and Clym Sutcliffe.

Printed by Service Point UK Ltd, 161-165 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3AL.

For general enquiries, call the council switchboard on 020 7641 6000.

Advertising: please contact Cath McNeill on 020 7641 2476, or cmcneill@westminster.gov.uk.

Printed on FSC® certified material.

To discuss editorial matters, please contact: The Editor, The Westminster Reporter, 17th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria St, London, SW1E 6QP. Telephone: 020 7641 5295 Fax: 020 7641 2958 Email: reporter@westminster.gov.uk. Minicom: 020 7641 2948

Reference copies of The Westminster Reporter are available in large print and audiotape format. To have a free copy sent to your home call 020 7641 5295. Published by Westminster City Council, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP.

Please recycle The Westminster Reporter. For more information on recycling call the Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000.

4 LEADER’S COLUMN

YOUTH COLUMN

Everyone playing their part 2012 has been a memorable year for Westminster. As well as playing host to national events, like the Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Games, we also held the first ever Silver Sunday on 7th October, a day of free activities for older residents, hosted by our Older People’s Champion, Councillor The Lady Flight.

Tea Dance 2012 guests

School children from Church Street

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

nd there is even more to get involved in this winter and beyond. In this issue, you can find out how to make the most of Christmas in Westminster, from children’s shows and shopping ideas, to funfairs and carol services. But times are still tough. Once again, the council will receive less money for the year ahead to spend on services across the city. That’s why we’ve launched a plan called Better City, Better Lives that will deal with these challenges and create ladders of opportunity. Detailed policies will be announced in early 2013, but the focus will be on three key principles: responsibility, opportunity and fairness. When it comes to acting responsibly, we need look no further for inspiration than

a group of school children in Church Street who tell us why we should recycle. Young people are also making the most of opportunities: with Army Cadets in Pimlico making new friends, learning new skills and even helping royal dignitaries on to boats. And innovative new technology is making parking in Westminster fairer than ever before. You can read about all these stories and much more in this issue. I hope you feel inspired, encouraged and excited about what I believe will be a wonderful 2013.

Cllr Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council

Abdonour Berrah, 18, from the Westminster Youth Council tells us about volunteering at the Tea Dance, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel on 7th October, for 1,000 older residents.

first heard about the Tea Dance through my youth worker. I wanted to go as I have never really had the experience of what it’s like to socialise with older people. Also, I was keen to show that young people do enjoy engaging with different groups within the community. Myself and six other members of the youth council came along to the event to talk to and dance with guests, and also to help them if they needed assistance during the day. For me, the best thing about going was hearing all the amazing stories they had to tell. I really learnt a lot about the history of

Westminster. It was really interesting to find out about people’s pasts and their life experiences as they have lived through many decades that I didn’t have much of an idea about. I think it’s important to speak to older people because they have a lot of interesting stories, but also to change their perceptions of young people, as some people make assumptions that we are always up to no good. I think it’s good to show them that’s not the case and I will definitely be back to help out at the Tea Dance next year! S ee pictures and a video of the Tea Dance at westminster.gov.uk/ teadance

arly next year, the council will set its budget for 2013/14. As with all councils, the money comes from three main places: the Council Tax you pay, grants from central government and generated income (such as licensing fees). With the government grant being reduced again, there will be less money in the budget next year. This means that we will continue being innovative and ensuring that every penny is spent wisely. Our Better City, Better Lives plan will help us to do this. Y ou can read the Better City, Better Lives plan at westminster.gov. uk/bettercitybetterlives

John Tweddle (right) and the team

Five-star rating for the cleanest streets in the capital

W Artist’s impression

New Sports Centre for Queen’s Park

roposals to merge Moberly and Jubilee Sports Centres, creating one new improved centre at Moberly are progressing. The proposals are subject to formal planning approval and a planning application is expected to be submitted next year. The new state-of-the-art centre will be larger than both Moberly and Jubilee combined with better facilities, including a new 25m swimming pool, a boxing hall, a fitness suite and a health spa. Additionally, in direct response to consultation feedback, there will be a smaller community sports facility at Jubilee and an upgraded outdoor pitch at nearby Queen’s Park Gardens. Jubilee Sports Centre will remain open whilst Moberly is being redeveloped and we aim to open the new Moberly by 2016. The new facilities will be provided at no cost to taxpayers through an innovative partnership agreement with Willmott Dixon Regen. T o read the full report produced as a result of the consultation including a summary of what people said, visit westminster.gov. uk/newmoberly

estminster’s streets were hailed as the cleanest in the capital after being awarded the only 5 Star rating in London by the Clean Britain Awards. Judging is based on objective measures of cleanliness without regard to the particular challenges that each area faces. Westminster came out on top with the highest rating any council’s cleansing services can receive. F ind out more at westminster.gov.uk/cleanstreets

Important changes to your Rescard

rom 17th January 2013, there will be some changes to your Rescard. New offers will replace those in the Rescard brochure and will be available online from this date at westminster.gov.uk/ rescard. They will also be printed in this magazine. You will no longer be able to use your existing card to access these offers. Please pick up a new card from 17th January at your local library or council leisure centre. The offers listed in the Rescard brochure will no longer be valid unless they are listed online. Smartsave offers will no longer be part of the Rescard scheme so you will not be able to claim them using your card. You can however continue to claim them by visiting smartsave.com/uk and printing a voucher. Visit westminster.gov.uk/rescard for more information

5 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Setting next year’s budget

NEWS IN BRIEF

News in brief

Value for money

Every Friday we bring you a new offer to help you make the most of council and other local services.

A NEW OFFER EVERY FRIDAY Calendar of offers December Nothing beats London during the festive season. Here are some great offers to get you out and about in the city for less.

Friday 7th December – 20% off at Playlounge Offer: Stock up on toys for kids big and small. Get 20% off everything excluding books at Playlounge for a week. Just say you are a Westminster resident to get the discount.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Date: 7th-13th December 2012 and every Friday until 31st January 2013. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 12-5pm Venue: Playlounge, 19 Beak Street, London W1F 9RP playlounge.co.uk 020 7287 7073

Friday 14th December – 20% off at Lomography Soho Store Offer: Treat someone special or yourself to a retro camera or accessory. Get 20% off everything

excluding film and development. Date: 14th-20th December. Mon-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 12pm-6pm Venue: Lomography Soho Store, 3 Newburgh Street, London W1F 7RE Printable voucher available from westminster.gov.uk/valueformoneyfriday from 14th-20th December. Show in store to claim discount. sohostore@lomography.com 020 7434 1466 lomography.com/more/stores/ london

Friday 21st December – £5 off annual Westminster Car Club membership and £35 in free driving Offer: Rent one of the many pay-asyou-go vehicles parked across Westminster and the UK this festive season. Save £5 on annual Westminster Car Club membership and get £35 in free driving by quoting the code: WCCREPVFMF when you apply online. Date: 21st December-31st March 2013

Friday 28th December – Seven Dials Privilege Card 10% Discount Offer: Save with the exclusive Privilege Card, normally only available to Seven Dials locals. The card gets you 10% off full prices in stores and restaurants like Superga, Tatty Devine, Candy Cakes and many more. Quote code: WEST1 on the Seven Dials website. Date: 28th December-3rd January 2013 Venue: Participating stores in Seven Dials, Covent Garden, London, WC2H Apply at sevendials.co.uk/ privilege using the code WEST1. Westminster has seven after-school Play Projects for 5-11 year-olds. Westminster Car Club gives instant access to around 100 vehicles with one hour’s free parking.

January Try something new in January with one of our New Year offers.

Friday 4th January – 15% off Marriage and Civil Partnership ceremonies at The Old Marylebone Town Hall Offer: Getting married? Take the chance to marry at The Old Marylebone Town Hall before it closes in August 2013. Save 15% on the marriage and civil partnership ceremony fee for ceremonies in January and February 2013. Date: 4th January-28th February 2013 Venue: The Old Marylebone Town Hall, 97-113 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5PT Apply for a voucher at westminster. gov.uk/valueformoneyfriday. Offer valid on new bookings for ceremonies in January and February 2013. Booking required. Call 020 7641 1162 or email registeroffice@westminster. gov.uk. Quote your name and voucher serial number when booking. westminster.gov.uk/registrar/ marriage

7 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Play Lounge, Beak Street street

Friday 11th January – 25% off Cinderella tickets Offer: Take the family to see this muchloved fairytale. St. James Theatre is offering 25% off Cinderella tickets.

Date: Book from 18th January28th February. Course must be completed by 31st March 2013. Venue: City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP

Date: Discount applies on bookings made 11th-17th January 2013, excludes existing bookings.

Booking required. Call 020 7641 3161 or email ehtraining@westminster. gov.uk and quote this offer.

Venue: St. James Theatre, 12 Palace Street, London, SW1E 5JA

Course information at westminster.gov.uk/ehtraining

Booking required. Bookings can be made over the phone, on the website and in person via the box office. Quote the code: FAIRYTALE.

Friday 25th January – Discounted after-school club for 5-11 year olds

0844 264 2140 boxoffice@stjamestheatre.co.uk stjamestheatre.co.uk

Friday 18th January – 25% off food safety, health & safety and licensing courses Offer: Boost your business and career by taking a food safety, health and safety or licensing course. Choose from a variety of courses accredited by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and save 25% on full price.

Offer: Pay just £5 per session on after-school play for children aged 5-11 years at selected Westminster Play Projects. Date: 25th Jan-31st Jan, Mon-Fri 3.30pm-6pm Venue: Wilberforce, St Augustines, Hallfield, Bayswater and Edward Wilson Play Projects. Call Luci Blatch on 0207 641 1183 or email lblatch@westminster. gov.uk for more details. For information and locations visit westminster.gov.uk/ playprojects

Value for Money Friday helps you make the most out of more than 100 services funded by your Council Tax payments. Visit westminster.gov.uk/counciltax to check the services that are available to you.

The average Council Tax of £687.62 (Band D) pays for: • a teacher* for 1 week • more than 20 tonnes of recycling to be processed • a child’s foster care fees for nearly two weeks. *Based on scale point 6 for classroom teachers working in inner London.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ valueformoneyfriday to find out more details about these and other offers and sign up to the e-newsletter. Follow us Facebook.com/valueformoneyfriday and Twitter @CityWestminster Offers subject to terms and conditions published on westminster.gov.uk/ valueformoneyfriday.

Feature

Volunteer with the Army Cadets Lieutenant Steven Ronner is an Army Cadet Force (ACF) instructor. He runs the 235 Westminster Detachment ACF (London Scottish), based at Rochester Row in Pimlico. By day, he works in a bank, but two nights a week he volunteers as a cadet instructor.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

“W

e currently have around 22 cadets parading each night. Each detachment is slightly different in what it offers but here we offer the full range of training and activities, from field craft and shooting, to navigation and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. “Our detachment includes girls as well as boys – the Army Cadets can suit many different types of people. “If you’re the sort of person who’s into sports, you can do sport right up to national level. If you’re more into military knowledge, you can focus on that. It’s down to all the cadets to take responsibility for their time here and drive themselves on to whatever they want to achieve. “It’s a great way of boosting confidence. Some people come along as 12 or 13-year-olds and at first they won’t say boo to a goose. A few years later, they’ve moved up the ranks

Lance Corporal Sami Cozal

Lieutenant Steven Ronner (left) with Sergeant Elliot Roffey (right)

and are issuing orders out in the field. “They also get to do things they never would have imagined. For example, two cadets from this unit got to help out during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. They were helping dignitaries get on and off the royal barges. That’s the sort of thing you’d never even dream of! We also help with things like the Remembrance Day parade and events at Westminster Abbey.

Thanks to council funding, Volunteer Centre Westminster brokers almost 1,000 volunteering opportunities per year.

“It’s a great way of boosting confidence.” Lieutenant Steven Ronner

“We are always on the lookout for new instructors, too. It can really help you at work. “If you can stand up in front of 100 teenagers in the cold and wet on the side of a mountain, standing up in front of a boardroom is nothing! “But it’s not really about what you gain personally as an instructor. It’s more about seeing the young people develop. It gives me so much pleasure when a young lad

with not many skills and an attitude problem turns into a young man who’s courteous, confident and willing to help people out.” Elliott Roffey is a Sergeant Instructor in the same detachment: “As soon as you join the cadets your social life opens right up. Some of my best friends are people I was in the cadets with. My message to any young kids hanging out on the street would be: “Get off the street, come along, and try something new.” Cadet Lance Corporal Sami Cozal, from Pimlico, has been a cadet for two years. He says “I joined because I wanted to do something productive and enjoyable in my spare time. “I’ve had the opportunity to do many things, from living in the field on 24-hour

News in brief

Do you know someone inspirational? Someone who gives up their time to help others? It’s time to give them the recognition they deserve. Nominate them for a Westminster Community Award.

Emily Marbach (left) with Cllr Philippa Roe

Army Cadets in Westminster:

The Army Cadet Force is a voluntary youth organisation with around 46,000 cadets across the UK. In Westminster, there are over 100 cadets but the organisation is always looking for new recruits both as adult volunteers and cadets. There are four Army Cadets detachments in Westminster: • 235 Westminster ACF (London Scottish), based in Rochester Row, Pimlico • 232 Westminster ACF (Rifles), based in Davies Street, Soho (boys only) • 234 City of Westminster School Detachment ACF (Rifles) (City of Westminster School students only) • 231 Paddington Academy Detachment ACF (Rifles) (Paddington Academy students only) ration packs to starting training as a junior cadet instructor. My proudest moment is winning an award for best cadet on annual camp this year. “During my time with the cadets I have become more interactive with people, more disciplined and more helpful.

If anyone was interested in joining the cadets I’d tell them that it is a great opportunity to make new friends, get down and dirty in the field and experience something you wouldn’t do in normal everyday life.” T o find out more about Army Cadets visit www.armycadets.com

he categories for 2013 include awards for Young Volunteer, Partnership of the Year and Inspirational Volunteer, as well as a special award for helping to bring together people from different backgrounds. Emily Marbach volunteers at Westminster Academy helping children with literacy. She won a Community Award in 2012. “They always say that volunteering has to be enjoyable or else no one really benefits. I was trained as a teacher, so volunteering at a school was a natural choice. “I love reading and am convinced that it is the key to a successful education. So helping children raise their reading levels was a natural fit for me. I really enjoy working with the students at the Westminster Academy. Of course, there were some who were reluctant to participate, but a healthy challenge makes things more interesting. “I was so pleased to be nominated. It came out of the blue because it wasn’t from a work colleague, just a friend who had watched me give up my time over the years. “People of all ages and backgrounds were nominated. If you think someone deserves an extra pat on the back, then they are the one to choose. I’ve got someone in mind to nominate this year!”

T he 2013 awards are organised by Westminster City Council and Volunteer Centre Westminster. To nominate, visit www.volunteer.co.uk/awards or write to Volunteer Centre Westminster, 4 Sutherland Avenue, London W9 2HQ

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Nominate a local hero

Top Tweets

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

@CityWestminster

TOP TWEETS

Wedding bells Due to a change in law, you can now get married or enter a civil partnership at any time of day rather than between 8am and 6pm. Westminster is one of the first councils in London to offer weddings at the new times. westminster.gov. uk/marriages or 020 7641 1162.

New Year’s Day Parade The theme of the 2013 New Year’s Day Parade is Hats Off. Starting at midday on Piccadilly, the parade finishes in Parliament Square. londonparade. co.uk

Recycle more As well as fridges, freezers, TVs and computers, you can now recycle furniture at the reuse and recycling centre at Smuggler’s Way, Wandsworth, SW18 1JS. westminster.gov.uk/ furniturerecycling

Mark Billingham

New look for Berwick Street Award-winning Berwick Street is to get a multimillion pound makeover. The private redevelopment scheme will include new shops, better social housing, more leisure amenities and improvements to the market. A public exhibition will be held in early 2013. Visit westminster.gov. uk/berwickstreet

iPad controlled street lights Smart street lights controlled by iPads will automatically alert engineers when they are broken to save £420,000 in maintenance costs every year. They can also be dimmed or brightened at the touch of a button. westminster.gov. uk/streetlights

NEW online reading group Can’t get to a book group? Join Text Tribe, an innovative new online reading group to discuss books and promote reading. Launched in November with a special appearance from bestselling author Mark Billingham, the group is open to book lovers in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Hammersmith and Fulham. texttribe.wordpress.com

@CityWestminster

Calling all Olympic volunteers Did you volunteer during the London 2012 Olympics or Paralympics? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your volunteering stories to reporter@ westminster.gov.uk

Advice for pregnant women and new parents Whether you are pregnant or a new parent, it can be an overwhelming time with lots of information to take in. Start4Life is a new NHS website that is full of useful tips and advice for a healthy pregnancy, and for feeding and getting your new baby active. Visit start4life.com

New Leicester shopping app Square Make shopping simple this Premiere Christmas with the ‘Living Regent Street’ app. The app guides you through the stores and exclusive boutiques, and keeps you posted about openings and offers. It includes information on every shop, café and restaurant. regentstreetonline.com/ shoppingapp

Low-cost swimming lessons for 2013 Learn to swim in the New Year with new weekly swimming lessons in your five council pools. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ swimming or call 020 7641 2012 to register.

Chris Pine and Isla Fisher, stars of Dreamworks ‘Rise of the Guardians’ opened the UK premiere of the film in November. The square was transformed into a ‘Magical Funland’ by Paramount Pictures UK and the council for three weeks for families to enjoy.

News for businesses We recently launched a new e-news update for businesses in Westminster. It contains useful information, advice and support, particularly for small and medium sized businesses. westminster.gov.uk/ businessnewsletter

If you are experiencing any form of abuse, visit a domestic abuse surgery on Thursdays between 9am and 12 midday at Bayswater Children’s Centre, St. Mary of the Angel’s RC School, Shrewsbury Road, W2 5PR. For help and support around domestic abuse call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.

Save paper – save money Getting your council tax bills by email is often more convenient than getting them by post. It also helps to save money and is better for the environment. If you already pay by direct debit, signing up for e-billing is quick and easy to do. westminster.gov.uk/ directdebit

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

James Joyce, Olympic and Paralympic volunteer

Talk about domestic abuse

ActiveWestminster Awards

Changing lives through Meet the community heroes who have made a difference to lives and communities through sport.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

ou sent in over 300 nominations for this year’s ActiveWestminster Awards. The awards celebrate the dedication and success of outstanding sports coaches, future young talent and volunteers who go above and beyond the call of duty to involve people in sport in their communities. Special Team GB guests, including Paralympic Bronze medallist Susie Rodgers and Olympic Judo and celebrity Big Brother star Ashley McKenzie, were on hand to announce the winners at Lords Cricket Ground. Among the winners were Chelsea and Westminster Swimming Club, who were crowned ‘Active club’. The club is one of London’s largest swimming clubs with 350 swimming members, offering performance focused swimming coaching and opportunities for juniors to compete at regional and national level. Julia Douglas, who coaches at the club, says: “There were lots of youngsters in Westminster who had to travel out of the city to train to take part in competitive swimming so

Julia Douglas, with some of the winning team at the Chelsea and Westminster Swiming Club

we introduced training sessions at Queen Mother Sports Centre on Wednesday evenings. The kids really are very driven to get good results and it’s great to watch them improve. It’s always a big team effort between the swimmers, club members and volunteers

and we’re lucky to have some of the best and most dedicated coaches. “2012 has been a fantastic year for us. We’ve achieved the ActiveWestminster Award for the first time, had one swimmer representing GB in this year’s European Youth Championships and

You can join in 100 hours of FREE activities for children and young people every week. westminster.gov.uk/active

even had four swimmers attend the Olympic trials. “We want to help make it easy for as many young swimmers in Westminster as possible to get into the pool. Our next step is to introduce club swimming in the north of the city, hopefully at Jubilee Sports Centre as

Talented young athletes can receive financial support through our Champions of the Future scheme. westminster.gov.uk/champions

sport

Cold weather in winter can mean ice, frost and snow, which are dangerous for cars on our roads and for people walking on our pavements.

T ActiveWestminster Award Winners 2012 Ian Forde Active volunteer Susie Rogers Champion of the Future – most promising young athlete Adam Humphreys Coach or community exercise instructor Chelsea and Westminster Swimming Club Active club Academy Sport Active place Gateway Primary School Active school Migrants Resource Centre Physical activity, health and wellbeing project well as an increase at Seymour Leisure Centre and The Porchester Centre. “It’s important to us that we are an affordable club and serve a very broad section of the community. Of course, not everyone will achieve regional or national swimming status but the main aim for us is that we promote a healthy and active lifestyle in a friendly and fun club environment.”

Westminster Boating Base Inclusive and active Kevin Burke Outstanding contribution Westminster’s London Youth Games female basketball team London Youth Games or School Games To find out more about all this year’s winners visit westminster. gov.uk/activeawards

here are nearly 1,000 kilometres of road and pavement within Westminster. When snow falls or ice forms we are ready with eight gritting vehicles, a store of 1,500 tonnes of salt and almost 200 salt bins on the street that street sweepers will use to grit the pavements. Not everywhere can be treated immediately at the same time, so areas such as steep gradients, bus routes, areas outside stations, outside fire and police

stations, hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, are treated with priority.

Clearing snow and ice from outside your home: While the council continues its efforts to keep the city moving through snow and ice, there are ways you can help yourself: • start early: it is much easier to remove fresh, loose snow compared to compacted ice that has been compressed by people walking on it • do not use hot water. This will melt the snow, but may replace it with black ice, increasing the risk of injury • be a good neighbour: some people may be unable to clear snow and ice on paths leading to their property or indeed the footway fronting their property. Snowfall and cold weather pose particular difficulties for them gaining access to

and from their property or walking to the shops • spreading some salt on the area you have cleared will help to prevent any ice forming. Table salt or dishwasher salt will work, but you can buy bags of rock salt from any DIY shop. Avoid spreading salt on plants or grass as they may be damaged by it. About a tablespoon of salt for each square metre you clear should work. The salt found in grit bins is used by council workers for keeping roads and pavements clear.

F or more information and to find out about the council’s Winter Service Plan visit westminster.gov.uk/winterservice

13 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Get ready for winter

Recycling

‘The world will be full of rubbish if you don’t recycle’ School children in Westminster are learning about recycling and the environment through a new Jump for Green programme. They also learn about healthy eating and exercise alongside environmental awareness.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

arie Monaghan, Jump for Green programme Manager for Vital Regeneration, says: “It’s a great way of making recycling a habit and part of a normal lifestyle for the children. Many parents have told us how they’re told off by their child if they try to put materials that can be recycled in the rubbish bin, so although the club is aimed at children, the adults also get a bit of an education. “We even had the opportunity to design the recycling bins on the Fisherton Estate, so we had

Left to right: Adam, Abbie, Alee and Alishba

“It’s not good to not recycle and makes a lot of pollution.”

“The world will be full of rubbish if you don’t recycle”

Adam, 7

Alishba, 7

the children draw what they would like to see on the bins to give them a bit of a makeover. “This December we’re running a session on

Christmas recycling, and showing the children how they can make their own Christmas cards and wrapping paper by reusing last year’s cards and paper.”

“If you throw away things you have to dig away land so there’s less places for people to live in. It also makes pollution which damages the ozone layer – there’s already a hole over Australia. Also some rubbish won’t rot and releases germs which are bad for the environment – a plastic cup may never rot.” Anis, 7

Recycle your old electrical items at one of 18 electrical recycling bins. For a list of locations visit westminster.gov.uk/electricalrecycling

A fter-school sessions run every week at Greenside Community Centre and Fisherton Hall. They are for children aged 7 to 12-years-old and the next 10-week programme starts in January. To find out more email marthur@vitalregen.org

Every year we collect enough leaves to power 1,000 homes.

Competitions Recycling

Changes to your Christmas waste and recycling collections There will be no waste or recycling collections on Christmas Day. If your waste collection falls on Christmas Day, your next scheduled waste collection is as normal. If your recycling is scheduled to be on Christmas Day, a special recycling collection will take place on Saturday 29th December, except in Little Venice where there is a Friday collection. All other collection days remain the same.

WIN tickets to see Sally Cookson’s Cinderella this Christmas!

1. Call 02 0 7641 2000 or westm inster.g visit ov.uk/xm to find astr Christm as tree your nearest ees recyclin g drop-o 2. Remem ff point. ber to re m ov tree de coratio e all your ns. 3. Take betwee your tree to a dr n 2nd an d 13th op-off point Recyclin Januar y 2013 . helps th g your Christm e enviro as nment tree is easy an as woodc hip and it goes to mak d mulch e westm inster.g ov.uk/re cycling

ith their quirky visual style, crystalclear storytelling, original live music and pitch-perfect ensemble acting, director Sally Cookson and team make this modern production of Cinderella a must-see! The show is at St. James Theatre and we have a pair of tickets to give away.

WIN a family ticket to see Dreamboats and Petticoats this winter!

e are inviting you and your family to see the West End sell out sensation Dreamboats and Petticoats. Held at Wyndhams Theatre, the production features some of the Rock ‘n’ Roll classics, including Shaking All Over, Let’s Twist Again and many more! The bright colours, humorous storyline and catchy tunes are bound to get you to your feet!

F or further information on collection visit westminster.gov.uk/ collection or call 020 7641 2000.

Recycle your Christmas tree When the decorations come down recycle your Christmas tree at one of our tree recycling drop-off points. 1. Call 020 7641 2000 or visit westminster.gov.uk/xmastrees to find your nearest Christmas tree recycling drop-off point. 2. Remember to remove all your tree decorations. 3. Take your tree to a drop-off point between 2nd and 13th January 2013.

WIN a family ticket to see Horrible Histories Barmy Britain – Live on Stage!

Birmingham Stage Company presents

LIVE ON STAGE!

Heads you lose

GARRICK THEATRE www.barmybritain.com

ave you ever wondered why Romans never won MasterChef? Or what would happen if a Viking came to stay? Or even if you’d have lost your head to horrible Henry? Well wonder no more! We are offering you and your family a chance to see the Horrible Histories production of Barmy Britain live at the ghastly Garrick Theatre in loathsome London. By the end of the show, you’ll be an expert in the history of Britain – with all the nasty bits left in!

Horrible Histories books are published by Scholastic Ltd. Horrible Histories is a trademark of Scholastic Inc. and is used under authorisation. All rights reserved. Illustration copyright © Martin Brown 2008

How to enter

To win any of these tickets, email reporter@westminster.gov.uk, stating which show you want tickets for. You can also send a postal entry to Reporter Competition, Westminster City Hall, 17th Floor, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP. Closing date for entries is 20th December. A ‘Family’ ticket comprises four tickets for a minimum of one adult and one child.

Terms and conditions apply.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WIN!

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Value Ward budgets for money

Funding projects in your neighbourhood Neighbourhood funds are being spent on local projects throughout Westminster. These projects range from improving the environment with new trees, flowers or improved paving, to buying new equipment for local sports clubs, or funding activities for older residents.

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eoff Biggs is the Director of Westbourne Park Family Centre and applied for a Neighbourhood Fund to assist with youth work in the Bayswater area. He says: “The Neighbourhood Fund we first received in 2009 enabled us to deliver a weekly youth session for young people hanging around on the estates and streets of Bayswater. “Thanks to the funding we have subsequently run football tournaments, days out of London and now see many of the boys attend our Friday youth club. Some of these boys have been involved with anti social behaviour, so we run workshops to help them understand the impact of their actions on others. “There has been a youth club running at Westbourne Park Family Centre for many years but recently we decided to run a girls only group. It came about as we noticed in mixed groups the

“We run workshops to help them understand the impact of their actions.” Geoff Biggs

boys tended to dominate the activities and that there was a much higher dropout rate of girls than boys. It’s been very interesting hearing the sorts of things girls want to do and seeing how much that differs from the boys. In all the years I’ve done social work I’ve never had anyone ask to do horse riding but it was one of the first things the girls asked to do.” Mariam, 12, says: “Geoff called my mum and said he was setting up a girls only club on Thursdays. As I’d got too old for the children’s club and have a lot of free time I wanted to do something so joined. My favourite part is the trips. I also like the yummy snacks they have here every time. I’ll definitely keep coming, I just wish there was more time to do more things!”

I f you would like to find out more about Neighbourhood Funds and how to apply visit westminster.gov.uk/neighbourhoodfunds

Miriam with Geoff Biggs

Neighbourhood funds are spent on local issues and priorities that matter most to residents. Last year £724,000 was awarded to projects throughout Westminster.

Small grants scheme

EFFECT is one of the many new community projects being made possible by a Small Grant from Westminster City Council. The West End Community Trust has received £4,500 from the fund to present four cultural evenings in the West End next year, to bring together the area’s residents.

halik Ullah, his wife Parvin and their family are going to present the Bangladeshi food night: “We got involved in the West End Community Trust two years ago when our children attended Soho Parish Primary.

“It’s also an appreciation of people coming together, spending time as a community and feeling more positive about our area.” Khalik Ullah

“It’s all very enjoyable and we’ve met a lot of people from the community that we wouldn’t otherwise know. “We hope our Bangladeshi food night gives people an insight into different tastes and food and how the dishes are made. It’s also an appreciation of people coming

Neil Drinkwater and the Ullah family

together, spending time as a community and feeling more positive about our area.” Project manager Neil Drinkwater runs the food night project. He says: “Soho is not typically associated with a resident population because of the high concentration of theatres,

The Small Grants Fund is supporting more than 10 projects already this year, including helping 90 young people to gain either an NVQ accreditation or work experience.

restaurants, clubs and pubs. This project will help residents in the area improve their sense of belonging, as well as allowing them to make new friends and experience other cultures first-hand. “Each food evening will be led by a different culture: Italian, Bangladeshi, Chinese and British. A cultural champion will lead each evening and give a

short presentation on their chosen menu. “There will be an opportunity for local people to eat together, sample food from different cultures and meet new friends from around the West End. All recipes will then be compiled into a small recipe book called ‘The Food Effect’, which will be a lasting legacy of the project.”

F or more information on how to apply for a Westminster Small Grant, visit:westminster.gov.uk/smallgrants

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Bringing together Soho residents

Parking

Parking made easy A new parking app, ParkRight, is being piloted in Westminster. It allows motorists to see if an on-street parking space is available on an individual road – all in real time. Before you even leave home, you can check with the free app to see the availability of spaces in Savile Row, Sackville Street, Jermyn Street and St John’s Wood High Street.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

t is the first of its kind in Europe with only San Francisco providing a similar service. The council is carrying out a free trial in partnership with Town and City Parking to investigate if bay sensors could be used right across the UK to make parking fairer, safer and easier. The app is already proving popular. Tony Pritchard, 47, a chauffeur parked on Sackville Street says: “I will be downloading the app and will be telling my colleagues about it. It is difficult and often quite stressful to find available spaces in central London and I have to drive around the block a few times before I find a bay. The app would make it easier.” Andy Maki, 33, a horticulturist working on Jermyn Street says: “It is often annoying driving around Westminster searching for a space before

“It is difficult and often quite stressful to find available spaces in central London and I have to drive around the block a few times before I find a bay – the app would make it easier.” Tony Pritchard

Andy Maki

Tony Pritchard

we can get on with doing our work. We have to park nearby because we have a lot of equipment to carry. Booking in advance would give us better flexibility.” John Crawley, a shopper on Savile Row says: “I have an iPhone and will be

The free ParkRight app has already been downloaded by more than 3,000 people.

John Crawley

Parking

• Nearly 600,000 cars enter central London every day. Westminster’s Parking Service helps keep this traffic moving. • We provide over 41,000 on-street parking spaces, catering for all road users and vehicle types. • We are implementing or trialling extra car club bays, more electric car charging points, and the use of traffic marshals to facilitate traffic movement. • There are more than 500 disabled parking bay spaces in Westminster. • As well as providing parking facilities for blue badge holders, Westminster City Council also operates a white badge scheme for disabled drivers and passengers who live or work in the city. • We provide over 6,000 parking spaces for motorbikes and motorcyclists can park free of charge in Q-Park car parks.

downloading the app and would have used it today if I had of known about it already. I already use my phone to pay for parking and would be really interested in using it to book a space as we come here to shop quite often.”

• We offer discounts on resident parking permits for those who drive vehicles under 1200cc and who apply online. • If you receive a Penalty Charge Notice you get a 50% discount rate if you pay within 14 days.

If you would like to download the

app, it is available from the Apple Store and in Google play on Android – just search ParkRight.

Parking bay sensor

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Parking in Westminster:

What’s on?

Find out what’s on in your local area with our round-up of events and activities across the city. Visit westminster.gov.uk/inthecity for the latest listings.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WHAT’S ON?

Christmas at Westminster Abbey 11th-24th December Celebrate Christmas at Westminster Abbey with a variety of Christmas carol concerts and live music events. Venue: Westminster Abbey, SW1P 3PA Cost: call or go online for details Nearest Tube: Westminster 020 7222 5152 westminster-abbey.org

Christmas Open Evening at Westminster Music Library 17th December, 6-7pm Head down to Westminster Music Library for carol singing, the Christmas quiz and a mince pie. Venue: Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD

Tim Walker: Story Teller

Cost: Free but booking is advisable Nearest Tube: Victoria 020 7641 1300 westminster.gov.uk/libraries

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display 31st December 2012, Midnight Welcome 2013 with a bang, watching the Mayor’s spectacular, free New Year’s Eve fireworks. Venue: Best views to be had from Victoria Embankment Cost: Free london.gov.uk/newyearseve

New Year’s Day Parade

Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus Until 27th January 2013, daily 10am-6pm, late until 9pm on 20th December. Tim Walker, the revered fashion photographer whose works have graced the pages of Vogue and Vanity Fair, is bringing his otherworldly, Gothic fairy tale inspired images to a new exhibition at Somerset House. Venue: Somerset House somersethouse.org.uk

Twelfth Night at the Apollo Theatre Until 3rd February 2013

More than 10,000 performers representing 20 countries world-wide will assemble for the 2013 Parade.

For a special family night out, see Twelfth Night which combines cruelty with high comedy and the pangs of unrequited love with some of the subtlest poetry and most exquisite songs Shakespeare ever wrote.

Venue: the Parade starts on Piccadilly outside the Ritz Hotel

Venue: Apollo Shaftesbury, 31 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 6NA

1st January 2013, 11.45am

Key:

disability access

Cost: £25-£55

0844 482 9671 nimaxtheatre.com/apollo-theatre Disabled access: 0844 412 4648

Westminster Walks Discover more of Westminster with a weekly guided walk led by qualified Westminster Guides.

Exclusive Clubs and Posh Shops Every Saturday. No need to book, just turn up and meet your guide. Walks last one and a half to two hours. Explore London’s Royal Village. St James has palaces, grand homes and hides some delightful courtyards and passages. Venue: Meet outside Green Park Station (Green Park exit) in park by drinking fountain. Cost: £8 (accompanied children under 12 free)

advance booking required – contact venue

21 Westminster Westminster

for children and young people

Issue 15, Summer 2012 Your magazine toYour find out more about children’s magazine and young people’s to andservices young people’sfind out more about children’s services

Issue 16, Autumn

West End LIVE Back to Work & Kids Help Week and

support for Better than ever g workin mums for 2012!

Wha What’s On t’s On

WIN

ticke ! ts to ‘Room on Broo the m’

Autumn events Summerand activities activities & events

Get Inspired StoryVolunt Lab eering This year’s Summer in Westm inster reading Challenge is here!

FREE Flu jabs this Baby Friendly winter Breastfeeding support for new mums

Christmas fun at our children’s centres

There’s lots on for children and young people this winter. Take a look at our free and low-cost event and activity listings to find out what’s on. Children’s Christmas Party 15th December, 11am Let your little ones discover the magic of the holidays – 18th century style – with traditional crafts, treats and carols. Age: 5-11 years Venue: Benjamin Franklin House, 36 Craven Street, WC2N 5NF Cost: £5 per child, free for adults. Booking required. education@ benjaminfranklinhouse.org

Christmas Fun Day

Cost: £3 deposit Nearest Tube: St. John’s Wood stjohnswoodlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk

Big and Small: First Fridays First Friday of every month, 10.30am-12.30pm Join in practical, hands-on, artist led workshops and activities for families with children under 5. Activities use the gallery collection as a source of inspiration and involve a range of activities including play, movement, making, looking, sound and music.

17th December, 3.30-6.30pm

Venue: Tate Britain

Christmas Fun Day with Santa’s Grotto, carol singing and lots of activities for all ages.

Cost: Free

Venue: Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Queen’s Park or 6, 18, 28, 36, 228 and 316 buses 020 8825 1067 a2dominion.co.uk/beethoven

Christmas Crafts

Nearest Tube: Pimlico 020 7887 8888 tate.org/visit/tate-britain/ kids-and-families

Cinderella – a fairy tale Until 26th January 2013 Be captivated by this dazzlingly original take on one of the oldest and best-loved fairytales of all time.

19th December, 3.30-4.30pm

Age: 6+ years

Make Christmas decorations in this festive crafts workshop.

Venue: St. James Theatre, Main House, 12 Palace Street, SW1E 5JA

Age: 5+

Cost: from £30

Venue: St. John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD

To find out times and for more information please contact your local centre. The parties will take place on Thursday 20th and Friday 21st December.

A fun way for children to learn about staying healthy The Wellcome Trust has awarded a grant to the Westminster-based social enterprise, BEANii Bodyscience, to create a theatre show that engages children aged 8-11 years and their families in the scientific factors that affect wellbeing.

The great BEANii Dickens adventure will communicate how nutritional, exercise and mindset factors impact the body and brain by comparing issues affecting children in the Victorian era with children today. The story will bring in child characters from Dickens’ novels and explore factors that affected their wellbeing in a scientific way. A series of school and community workshops in the South Westminster area which began in November 2012 will run to March 2013 to co-create the content for the show with participating children.

To find out how to register your 8-11 year old for the Saturday community workshops starting on 19th January 2013, please contact 0777 184 7733. Places are subject to availability. Westminster Children First, Issue 15, Summer 2012

Know how to spot the signs of diabetes Diabetes UK have recently launched an awareness campaign to educate people on the signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes. There are 29,000 children and young people with diabetes in the UK and the vast majority have Type 1. Every year, another 2,000 are diagnosed, and this number is rising. Diabetes UK estimate that the right treatment at the right time could prevent around 500 children a year from becoming very ill with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) before they are diagnosed. DKA is when a severe lack of insulin upsets the body’s normal chemical balance and causes it to produce ‘ketones’, which are poisonous chemicals. DKA happens very quickly and left untreated can result in serious illness, and even coma and death. Common symptoms of Type 1 diabetes in children and young people: • going to the toilet a lot • bedwetting in a previously dry child or heavier nappies in babies • being really thirsty (and not being able to quench the thirst) • feeling very tired and losing weight or looking thinner than usual. For more information on the children with diabetes campaign visit the Diabetes UK site: diabetes.org. uk/Information-for-parents

T o read the latest edition of Children First visit: westminster.gov.uk/youngpeople

0844 264 2140 stjamestheatre.co.uk

Visit westminster.gov.uk/inthecity for the latest event and activity listings.

Most of our children’s centres will be hosting Christmas parties during the festive season.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Winter activities

Your magazine to find out more about children’s and young people’s services

children first childre nfirst

You can get Children First delivered FREE to your door or your inbox three times a year. Email Childrenfirst@ westminster.gov.uk to subscribe.

WIN!

tickets Horriblto Historiee s LIVE

2012

West End

Your Perfect Westminster Christmas One of the best things about being in Westminster at Christmas is that there is so much to see and do.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

e all have something we love about Christmas and some of us have special traditions, like taking in a show or going to see the lights with friends and family. We wanted to find out what people like about being in the city during the festive season, so we asked some of our residents, what makes a perfect Christmas in Westminster? Suzanne Steer, 66 from Marylebone says: “As a Christian, going to church is obviously something very special at Christmas. I always go to Trafalgar Square to see the Christmas tree, I think with the carols and the nativity scene it’s so beautiful. I remember in the seventies when we only had electricity a few days a week, the only thing they didn’t switch off was the Christmas tree. Everywhere was so dark except Trafalgar Square – it was lovely!

Estella Mosca

“Another thing I really enjoy is roasted chestnuts; it’s such a festive food. I like the lights in Oxford Street and Marylebone High Street too and I always have a look to see what’s going on in Covent Garden. I do like being in London at Christmas time and really appreciate living in Westminster as the atmosphere is particularly special at this time of year.” Estella Mosca, 15 says:

You can now get free WiFi on the move while doing your Christmas shopping in the West End, thanks to a deal between the council and O2.

Suzanne Steer

Oxford Street lights

“My friends and I have a long standing tradition where we pick a day to meet up and go shopping in Covent Garden, and then we go to the West End to see a show. After that we get a hot chocolate (I can’t

stop drinking it during the winter!) and go for a walk around Leicester Square and places like that to soak up the festive atmosphere. Another little tradition is that my family and I always go into the West End for dinner a few days before Christmas Day and then afterwards we go to see the Oxford Street lights. It all looks so pretty in the dark.” T o find out what’s on in the West End this Christmas, visit: westendlondon.com

Competition

Tweet your perfect Christmas snaps

ake a photo of your favourite Westminster Christmas sights and tweet us @CityWestminster with the hashtag #westminster christmas. You could be in with a chance of winning one of two Lomography cameras. All entries must be in by January 6th. Winning entries will be contacted via Twitter.

ur cover star Robbie Williams turned on the Marmite Oxford Street Christmas Lights on November 5th. He says: “Oxford

“Oxford Street is a fantastic place to do your Christmas shopping!”

FREE!

Robbie Williams

Street is a fantastic place to do your Christmas shopping and it’s great to be part of the celebrations. I can’t believe I am turning on the lights!”

Silver Sunday New day for older people

What’s on? Autumn activities

Volunteer How to get involved

Value for Money Friday Get the most out of local services

WIN! Day passes to Porchester Spa

T weet us @CityWestminster with the hashtag #westminsterchristmas

CHRISTMAS 2012 ISSue 110

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WIN!

Housing renewal

Investing in your neighbo Many people are taking the initiative to get involved in community schemes to improve their neighbourhood. Church Street residents took part in a film that shows how housing renewal will provide new and better homes, create jobs and enterprise opportunities, and improve community facilities and green spaces.

ennie Buckley tells us about her experience filming and why it is important to get involved in the programme: “I think my main concern was where I was going to end up going, and whether that would be very far from where I am already.

Stills from the video

“I didn’t know that it was built to the same standard as the athletes’ village in the Olympic park.”

Jennie Buckley

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Jennie Buckley

“In the film I went to visit the show flat at Tollgate House and to be honest, I was expecting something that wasn’t going to be that good. “But I was blown away by the spec. I wasn’t expecting the flat to be done up to that high standard at all. I didn’t know that it was built to the same standard as the athletes’ village in the Olympic park. “The thought that went

into it was really impressive, the flooring, the finish – these are things which will save tenants money in the long run. It really will be a home to be proud of. “Some residents have got involved in the renewal programme and joined the design team and have taken

On average, 100 new affordable homes are built every year through planning permission requirements on residential developments.

trips to estates in other boroughs to see how new homes have been built there. “I think that it’s important that people who live in the renewal areas should get involved in the programme. You can’t let the opportunity to have your say pass by and then moan later when

things are not how you would like them to be. You can get involved. You’ve got a voice to be heard here. “The YouTube video and the Facebook pages are a great way to find out more information and share thoughts, as a lot of people use these sites already. People should have a look at them and take a closer look at the programme.”

You can check your area on facebook: Facebook.com/WestbourneGreenRenewal Facebook.com/ChurchStreetRenewal

Facebook.com/TollgateGardensRenewal

Facebook.com/PaddingtonGreenRenewal

Facebook.com/EburyBridgeRenewal

Health

Health care changes From April 2013 responsibilities for public health and some health services will transfer from the NHS to the council. This is so that health priorities can be reflected in the services the council provides such as housing, schools, social services and environmental health. The council will be responsible for providing these services including: • sexual health services • drug and alcohol treatment services • health checks for 40 to 74-year-olds • school nursing programmes • giving up smoking services • services to prevent childhood obesity including the national child measurement programme.

P Housing in Westminster: • There are 120,000 households in Westminster. • CityWest Homes maintains 22,000 properties on behalf of the council, with 11,000 leaseholders and 11,000 social renting tenants. • In addition to this, there are 13,500 affordable homes provided by housing associations and charities for council tenants. • Westminster Community Homes was set up by the council in 2009. To date it has provided 300 new homes for those on Westminster waiting lists in the past three years. R esidents can view the video, which is subtitled in English and Arabic, on Facebook and also at westminster.gov.uk/housingrenewal or scan the QR code above.

ublic health is about preventing disease and helping people to live healthier and longer lives by providing the information and facilities they need to do this. Providing low-cost sport and leisure that is available to all residents is an example. You should not expect any major changes to the services above and you will continue to receive them from the same people and places you always did. It means we can tackle local health issues by focusing on the health problems faced by people living in Westminster.

How we tackle these will be decided by an independent health and wellbeing board made up of councillors, health professionals, voluntary organisations and GPs. It will be chaired by the leader of the council, who is elected by you to represent your interests and means you have more of a say on health services than ever before. The changes do not affect health care for the treatment of injuries, illness or urgent medical conditions which remains the responsibility of the NHS. For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/health

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

bourhood

Adult Social Care

Independent living for peo learning disabilities Patricia, 50, from Maida Vale has Down’s Syndrome. With support from the council through the Westminster Society for People with Learning Disabilities (WSPLD), she lives in her own flat following years living in residential homes.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

ala Doherty from WSPLD, says: “Patricia moved into her own flat in 2009 after years of living in registered care, institutions and foster care. She is able to call on a 24-hour support team who are within five minutes of her home if she needs any help. “The council created a care plan with Patricia which details how she will spend her personal budget to best help her live independently. She uses it to get out and about and keep active which is very important to her. “She receives support on health issues and her finances and also gets help with shopping and cleaning. Patricia also joins our group sessions for people with learning disabilities on everyday issues such as healthy eating and keeping safe. “This package of low-level

“I’m really happy and focused on living.” Patricia

care helps Patricia to live an independent life.” Patricia says: “I have lived here since 2009 and it’s good fun. It’s good to know this is my house and that I belong. I chose it myself. “I’ve learnt that I can do a lot for myself. I do my own paperwork and make meals from scratch. I like healthy food like pasta, fish and cottage pie. I have diabetes so it’s important for me to eat well. I get help from my carer on the type of things to cook and go shopping for food at Church Street every Wednesday. “I want to be an artist and I’m developing my artwork at the National Portrait Gallery. Vince, my carer told me about it as he knows I like art. I’ve

Adult Services support 500 people with learning disabilities through a personal budget. Call 020 7641 7411 for information.

always liked drawing, it makes me relaxed. “The course at the gallery is very good. The people in my group like my art and tell me I’m a good artist. We talk about each other’s work and it’s helping me to learn new things and get new skills. “Every year I do a five kilometre walking challenge in Hyde Park and I’ve got two medals. Every morning before breakfast I go jogging at Paddington Recreation Ground. I use the running track there.

“I’ve always liked drawing, it makes me relaxed.” Patricia

“I like to be active and get more experiences. I meet lots of new people. I go to workshops at the society’s drop-in centre. There is a session coming up with the police about keeping safe. I’m going to ask how I can keep myself safe when I’m out and

Patricia

about on my own at night. “On Monday night we have a tea party or we do ‘my life story’ to remember things from my past that are important to me. We also have sessions on how to look and feel good such as fashion, make-up, losing

Adult Social Care

Charter update Our new adult social care charter promises to provide you with the information you need to live as independently as possible. Here you can find out the latest news on our adult social care services.

Free training for disabled people

f you are disabled and unemployed with an interest in physical activity, you can train as a gym instructor. The 15-day course will lead to the CYQ Level 2 certificate in gym instructing followed by a six-week work placement. Call 07917 822 977 or email instructability@aspire.org. uk for more information or to apply.

Financial help for carers

f you’re a carer, you may be eligible for money to help you to reduce the difficulties you face when caring for someone, have a break, or continue in your caring role. You will have an assessment during which you can decide how to best spend the money. Visit carers-network.co.uk or call 020 8960 3033.

New dementia centre

new centre for people with dementia opens in Westbourne Park this month. It focuses on sensory stimulation and is available to people with a personal budget and their carers. For more information on the centre call 020 7641 1175. If you are worried about someone who is finding it difficult to remember things, ask your GP to refer you to the Memory Service or call 020 7612 1663.

Free swimming with a concession card

f you’re disabled, care for someone with a disability or are aged over 60, you can get discounts at your local council leisure centre. You can also swim for free at Queen Mother, Porchester, Seymour and Jubilee Sports Centres. Visit westminster.gov. uk/concessioncard

weight and healthy food. “I learn more skills being independent. If my carer takes me out, I don’t learn

so much. I choose myself what I want to do. I’m really happy and focused on living.”

F or more information on the work of the Westminster Society for People with Learning Disabilities, who support Patricia, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, visit wspld.org.uk. F or more information on support for people with learning disabilities, call Adult Services on 020 7641 7411.

Cllr Rachael Robathan Cabinet Member for Adults Services ur adult social care charter is our promise that we will treat you with dignity, O compassion and respect. Visit westminster.gov.uk/charter

We offer over 15 hours of free advice sessions for people aged 50 plus every week, through Age Concern Westminster. Call 020 3004 5610 to find your nearest.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

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The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Mosun Odegbesan

Entry costs £8 for adults and £6 for juniors. There’s a £1 discount for Westminster residents and schools and any profits from the event will be invested in sport for local Westminster people as part of our 2012 legacy programme. Mosun Odegbesan, 12, got into running back in May when she joined the Serpies Juniors running club who meet on Wednesday evenings at Paddington T o register for Westminster Miles, visit westminster.gov.uk/ westminstermiles

Mosun Odegbesan (right) with Lola Awoderu (left)

Recreation Ground. Mosun says: “I find running fun, especially when I know I’m improving. I’ve told my friends at school about Serpies Juniors and now some of them have joined up. I’m looking forward to running in the Westminster Miles next year and hopefully I F or information on sporting legacy visit westminster.gov. uk/2012sport

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will have improved even more by then. I hope lots of other kids can join in because it’s only one mile so I think everyone should give it a go.” Westminster Miles takes place on Sunday 26th May, 10am-5pm.

Categories include: • juniors • veteran runners • elite athletes • wheelchair users • visual impaired race with guide runners.

Westminster has 18 outdoor sports pitches for you to use for free on a turn up and play basis.

PARLIAMENT STREET

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Take part in the Bupa Westminster Miles, a new one-mile running event in Green Park on 26th May 2013. There are categories for all ages and abilities so that everyone can take part.

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Your recycling guide Your mixed recycling collection is weekly Step 1

Step 2

Order your free recycling Put all your recyclable bags or container from items together into your your housing manager or recycling bag or container. caretaker, or contact us.

You can recycle:

Step 3 Leave it out on your recycling collection day or put it in your nearest mixed recycling bin which may be in your building. Tip: Flatten your cardboard boxes and add to your mixed recycling

Contact us • to order free recycling bags or a container • to find your rubbish and recycling collection days and times • to find your nearest on-street micro recycling centre

Visit: westminster.gov.uk/recycling Call: 020 7641 2000 Email: recycling@westminster.gov.uk If you have a housing manager or caretaker please ask them for details of your rubbish and recycling services.

Community focus

Over to you

Meet the people who are involved in their local area, creating better lives by giving something back to their community.

Mavis Aird and Doreen Green both live in South Westminster and have been friends for 12 years through volunteering. They tell us why they love to volunteer at the Abbey Centre in South Westminster.

e started attending the Abbey Centre when both of our husbands passed away over a decade ago. We became friends quickly when we were asked to help out at the bingo club. The Monday club needed volunteers to run it, and we were asked if we would like to take it over. We somewhat got landed with it, but really enjoy the challenge.

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“We enjoy doing it, sometimes it’s a bit of a challenge but it’s good to do something positive.” The club is self sufficient, we ask people for £1 to attend and that pays for the guest speakers we have. We have had all sorts of people talk to us from the railways to nature, and are always on the lookout for new speakers. “The first time we ran it, there were 12 people attending. Over the years it got bigger and bigger – at it’s height we had 60 people attending the club, we were terribly proud, and we had to keep changing rooms to get everyone in! Usually we have between 15-20 people now on a regular basis. We are open

Mavis Aird (left) and Doreen Green (right)

“We rely on volunteers to run some of the clubs at the centre, and we are lucky to have volunteers like Doreen and Mavis.” Caroline Richardson, Volunteer Manager, Abbey Centre

to over 60s and two of our regular attendees are 90 plus. “We enjoy doing it, sometimes it’s a bit of a challenge but it’s good fun, and it’s good to do something positive. “As well as the Monday

club we hold sales to raise funds for the centre. The last sale we did we raised £500 which is great to give back to the centre for a good cause. “We enjoy spending our time here because we like to see people and to socialise.” Caroline Richardson,

volunteer manager at the centre says: “We rely on volunteers to run some of the clubs at the centre, and we are lucky to have volunteers like Doreen and Mavis who are real salt of the earth types. They have given so much to the Abbey Centre.”

T he Abbey Centre always welcomes new volunteers so if you are interested in volunteering, visit theabbeycentre.org.uk, call in, or email caroline. richardson@theabbeycentre.org.uk T he Abbey Centre is open Monday-Saturday offering a variety of clubs and classes from yoga to languages. Membership is open to all ages and full details are available at theabbeycentre.org.uk. If you are over 60 and would like to attend the Monday club, pop into the centre: The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street London, United Kingdom SW1P 3BU.

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