Westminster Reporter Summer 2014 by Westminster City Council

FREE!

West End LIVE Free theatre in Trafalgar Square

First World War centenary

Westminster remembers

Local offers and discounts SUMMER 2014 ISSUE 115

12-13 West End LIVE

14-19 Local news and events

Your new local councillors

New recruits training in Regent’s Park in August 1914, shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. See page 24 for details of First World War centenary commemorations in Westminster.

4-5 News in brief 6 What’s on? 7 Westminster City Save offers and discounts 8-9 Local election results 10 Lord Mayor and Community Council 11 Historic Westminster 12-13 West End LIVE 14-15 Your Westminster: North 16-17 Your Westminster: Central 18-19 Your Westminster: South 20-21 Health focus 22 Staying safe 24-25 First World War centenary 26 Cycling and ActiveWestminster 27 Carer Awards 28-29 Parenting support 30 Over to you: Paddington Festival

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The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

CONTENTS

@CityWestminster Follow us on

Same sex marriages

Westminster is the most popular place in the UK for gay and lesbian couples to form civil partnerships and now same sex couples can get married in Westminster. To book your wedding visit westminster.gov.uk/registrar

My vision for Westminster

Do more with your library card You can use your library card to access over one million books from libraries in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea and Hammersmith and Fulham. What’s more, you can now return your items to any library in each of the three boroughs. westminster. gov.uk/libraries

Find parking spaces in Westminster using a free app which you can download to your phone. It will make finding parking spaces easier and quicker, helping to reduce congestion in the city. The ParkRight app uses sensor technology to identify available parking spaces and there will shortly be more than 3,000 spaces in central Westminster covered by the technology. Search parkright on the Apple store, Google Play or Windows store. westminster.gov.uk/parkright

Sign up for great discounts Got a ResCard? Last year we changed the ResCard to Westminster City Save. Just take your old ResCard to a library or leisure centre and you will be issued a new one on the spot, or sign up online at westminster. gov.uk/citysave

Funding for your community Put forward your ideas for what you want your local councillor to improve or tackle in your area. Ward budgets can fund new projects, facilities or services that make a difference to local residents. For more information contact jbest@westminster.gov.uk

Get reading this summer Get your children reading this summer with the Mythical Maze Summer Reading Challenge at your local library. Take part in free themed events and activities, and pick up stickers and rewards for reading the books. westminster.gov.uk/events-libraries

Join Team Westminster If you volunteer already, or are thinking about contributing time to your community we’ve made it easier for you. Join Team Westminster and take advantage of a wider range of volunteering opportunities. westminster.gov.uk/team-westminster

Recycling comes to a door near you Find out what and where you can recycle and ask your questions as our recycling staff visit homes across Westminster this month. westminster. gov.uk/ recycling

LEADER’S COLUMN

Plan your journey and enjoy London’s top events Westminster is host to many exciting events celebrating our great city this summer including Pride, Notting Hill Carnival, RideLondon and the Tour de France. It will mean some disruptions to travel and parking on the days of the events, make sure you plan ahead. westminster.gov.uk/travel-disruptions

Following the recent election, it’s time to take stock and look forward to the year ahead.

olunteering will continue to be a priority for the council. Our Community Awards this month demonstrated the inspiring work of the city’s volunteers and the impact they have on so many lives. We want to create opportunities for 1,000 people to volunteer in the next year. We will focus on creating an enterprising city through the West End Partnership and their plan to keep London’s lead as a global city. Our Workplace Coordinators programme has already helped over 300 residents into employment, taking a huge stride towards our ambitious target of delivering 1,000 placements by 2018. We have exceeded the Mayor’s affordable housing target, building 1,142 new homes over the past five years. We will continue to support and deliver new homes in the areas where they are most needed. Last but not least, we are now overseeing public health and this year will invest £2 million to help 3,000 smokers in our city to kick the habit. My Better City, Better Lives vision lays down the challenge of Westminster in 2018 where people live independent lives for longer, where strong and responsible families give every child the best start in life and local public services are there to support them. It aims to give every young person the skills and opportunities to have a successful career and enable businesses to thrive. Its success depends on the involvement of everyone in Westminster who cares for the future of the city. We look forward to meeting that challenge.

Cllr Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council

5 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

@CityWestminster

News in brief

NEWS IN BRIEF

What’s on?

Offers

Find out what’s on in your local area with our round-up of events and activities across the city. For more activities see our MyWestminster pages.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

West End LIVE 21st-22nd June A spectacular weekend of free top class theatre in Trafalgar Square. See page 12 for details.

Adult education community open days 21st June, 9th July and 15th July Visit a Westminster Adult Education Service Summer open day to find out what courses are on offer. There are also two open days for people looking to get back into work offering you the chance to meet employers who offer flexible routes into employment, receive impartial advice and find out about some free courses on offer from WAES. These include childcare, setting up your own business, health and social care. Venue: 219 Lisson Grove, NW8 8LW (Summer open day, 21st June) Lydford Community Hall, 74 Fernhead Road, W9 3EW (Return to work open day, 9th July), 10am-3pm Churchill Hall, Churchill Gardens, Lupus Street, SW1V 3AL (Return to work open day, 15th July), 10am-3pm waes.ac.uk/opendays 020 7297 7297

Caxton Youth Organisation 23rd July-29th August (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), 6.30-9pm

and Low cost

FsuRmEmEer activities

Activities for young people with disabilities aged 11 to 25 and their friends. Booking is required. Venue: Basement Clubrooms, Tintern House, Alderney Street, SW1V 4JF Cost: Free caxtonyouth.org 020 7834 1883

EDUTAIN 23rd July-22nd August

Football, tennis, cricket and basketball camps Weekly camps from 29th July to 29th August, 10am-3pm Four fun-filled days of sport for ages five to 15. All equipment is provided. Booking is required.

Keep your children active and entertained this summer with this sports and arts activity programme for young people aged 8-13.

Venue: Paddington Recreation Ground, Randolph Avenue, W9 1PD

Venue: Churchill Gardens Youth Club, The Annexe, Churchill Gardens Road, SW1V 3HY

Nearest tube: Maida Vale

Cost: £28.16 for Westminster City Save card holders for four days 020 7641 3642

Academy Sport, Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ. Cost: £1 per day Nearest Tube: Pimlico/ Royal Oak/Westbourne Park 020 7641 2012

Fields of Battle, Lands of Peace street gallery 4th-15th August A free photographic exhibition dedicated to the First World War, focusing on the landscapes of battle and illustrating the stories of people who experienced them. The exhibition launches on 4th August in St. James’s Park to mark the outbreak of the First World War and will then tour the UK. Westminster Archives will host an education centre featuring the local heroes of the First World War on 4th August only for children aged 5 to 14-years-old. Venue: St. James’s Park Cost: Free Nearest tube: Westminster/ St. James’s Park fieldsofbattle1418.org

Lives of the First World War From 19th July Help the Imperial War Museum to build a digital memorial to more than eight million men and women from across Britain and the Commonwealth who served in uniform and worked on the home front. Upload your photos and memorabilia to the IWM website to save the stories for future generations.

Apply for a free Westminster City Save card, which replaced the ResCard scheme, and get hundreds of exclusive local offers and discounts. Sign up for your free card at westminster.gov.uk/citysave, or take your old ResCard into your library or leisure centre to have a new one issued on the spot. Save up to 70% on top West End theatre and London attractions Get great savings on London’s top shows, musicals and attractions with your Westminster City Save card. With new shows added throughout the year and an exclusive offer for those who live in Westminster, don’t miss out. Date: ongoing westminstercc.entstix.com 020 7400 1234

Nearest tube: Lambeth North/ Elephant and Castle iwm.org.uk

Kids Week free theatre 1st-31st August Enjoy some of the West End’s top shows as well as workshops and activities as children under 16 go free to any participating show with a full paying adult. Venue: Participating West End theatres

24th-25th August

Cost: Children go free with a full paying adult

Venue: Notting Hill

Nearest tube: Various

Nearest tube: Notting Hill Gate

kidsweek.co.uk

Cost: Free thenottinghillcarnival.com

Kids go free at the Museum of Brands, Packaging & Advertising Travel through time and discover a treasure trove of retro curiosities, from KitKats, Mars Bars and Oxo Cubes from the 1930s, to Rimmel cosmetics from the 1890s. museumofbrands.com

noodles and dumplings as well as classic desserts. Get a free bubble tea for every £10 you spend. Venue: 22 Wardour Street, W1D 6QQ hkdiner.com

15% off at Tuttons

Free dance class To celebrate their 25th anniversary the Susan Zalcman School of Ballet are offering a free trial dance class at any of their Westminster venues. Open to children and adults alike, try ballet, jazz or tap and have fun whilst keeping fit. Venue: Covent Garden, Maida Hill and St. John’s Wood

Notting Hill Carnival Join Europe’s biggest street festival this August Bank Holiday. Enjoy the spectacular carnival procession and immerse yourself in the tastes of Caribbean culture.

Venue: Museum of Brands, Packaging & Advertising, 2 Colville Mews, Lonsdale Road, W11 2AR

susanzalcmanschool ofballet.co.uk

10% off food and drinks and free bubble tea Offering an authentic taste of Hong Kong, visit HK Diner and get 20% off your meal. Choose from traditional dishes including BBQ pork, roast duck,

Enjoy British cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden with 15% off your bill at Tuttons. Enjoy a cosy meal, glass of wine or a cocktail in the newly refurbished restaurant. Venue: 11/12 Russell Street, WC2B 5HZ tuttons.com

10% off Cotswold Outdoor Find outdoor clothing, equipment and products at Cotswold Outdoor at their Piccadilly and Covent Garden stores and get 10% off your purchases. Venue: Nationwide cotswoldoutdoor.com

Terms and conditions apply. See website for details and a full list of offers at westminster. gov.uk/citysave

7 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WHAT’S ON?

ST. JAMES’S

Your new council

Louise Hyams

On 22nd May you voted in the local elections for your ward councillors.

here are 60 ward councillors in Westminster who have been elected by their community to represent the views of residents and businesses. Find out who your new councillors are. T o contact your local councillor visit westminster.gov.uk/councillors

ABBEY ROAD

CHURCHILL

Lindsay Hall

Judith Warner

BAYSWATER

Brian Connell

Richard Holloway

BRYANSTON AND DORSET SQUARE

Cabinet Members A

s a result of the recent local elections there have been some changes to our cabinet. These councillors are responsible for running areas of the council, from children and families to parking and planning.

Cllr Philippa Roe Leader of the Council

Murad Gassanly

Shamim Talukder

Jason Williams

Ruth Bush

Guthrie McKie

Ian Adams

Barbara Melvyn Arzymanow Caplan

Nilavra Mukerji

Rita Begum

Thomas Crockett

Nick Peter Cuthbertson Evans

Angela Harvey

Jan Prendergast

MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET

Danny Chalkley

David Harvey

Responsible for: Growth, performance, equality, government relations, communications and strategy.

Cllr Robert Davis

VINCENT SQUARE

MAIDA VALE

HYDE PARK

Suhail Rahuja

Cameron Thomson

TACHBROOK

LITTLE VENICE

HARROW ROAD

Peter Freeman

Tim Mitchell

Deputy Leader of the council and Cabinet Member for the Built Environment

Steve Summers

Responsible for: Planning, special events, public art, building control and West End LIVE.

Cllr Heather Acton

Cabinet Member for Sustainability and Parking

WARWICK

Responsible for: Sustainability, Go Green policies, air quality, cycling, biodiversity and parking policy.

Heather Acton

Antonia Cox

Jean-Paul Floru

NIGHTSBRIDGE K AND BELGRAVIA

Iain Bott

Ian Rowley

Karen Scarborough

Nickie Aiken

Ed Argar

Christabel Flight

Cabinet Member for Public Protection

Responsible for: Community protection, Safer Westminster Partnership, licensing, trading standards, CCTV and emergency planning.

WESTBOURNE

QUEEN’S PARK

Cllr Nickie Aiken

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Cllr Ed Argar Richard Beddoe

Audrey Lewis

Adnan Mohammed

CHURCH STREET

Tony Devenish

Rachael Robathan

Philippa Roe

LANCASTER GATE

Patricia Paul Dimoldenberg McAllister

Barrie Taylor

REGENT’S PARK

David Boothroyd

Adam Hug

Papya Qureshi

Cabinet Member for City Management, Transport and Infrastructure Responsible for: Street cleaning, lighting, recycling, waste management, roads and road safety.

WEST END

Cllr Daniel Astaire

Barbara Grahame

Vincenzo Rampulla

Aziz Toki

Susie Burbridge

Robert Davis

Andrew Smith

Daniel Astaire

Gotz Mohindra

Robert Rigby

Paul Church

Jonathan Glanz

Glenys Roberts

Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration, Business and Economic Development

Responsible for: Enterprise and growth, skills and employment, business development and housing strategy.

Cllr Melvyn Caplan Cabinet Member for Finance, Corporate and Customer Services

Responsible for: Revenue and capital budgets, IT, HR, procurement, property, customer services, corporate website and Westminster City Save.

Cllr Danny Chalkley

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People Responsible for: Schools and education, children in care, care leavers, parenting, children and young people.

Cllr Rachael Robathan

Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health Responsible for: Adult Services, public health, carers, adults with disabilities, rough sleepers and Armed Force Champion.

Cllr Steve Summers

Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Open Spaces Responsible for: Sport and leisure, libraries, arts & culture, parks, volunteering, advice services, the registrar’s service, neighbourhoods and ward budgets.

9 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

How the new council looks

Your new council

Meet your new W Lord Mayor

Historic Westminster: Hyde Park

Each year a new Lord Mayor is sworn in to represent the people of Westminster.

A public park for almost 400 years, Hyde Park is a 350 acre oasis of calm in the centre of one of the busiest cities in the world.

s ‘First Citizen’ of Westminster the Lord Mayor hosts or attends civic functions and promotes the city by creating partnerships with local and community groups, businesses and representative bodies based in Westminster. The Lord Mayor also holds the title of Deputy High Steward of Westminster Abbey, reflecting the long and historical association between Westminster Abbey and the City of Westminster.

“I am very pleased to be elected Lord Mayor and look forward to continuing to serve the people of Westminster. I will follow the example of the outgoing Lord Mayor to support the Sir Simon Milton Foundation and I hope to be able to raise funds and support them through my year as Mayor” The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Heritage

Cllr Audrey Lewis

Cllr Audrey Lewis was sworn in as Lord Mayor this month. Cllr Lewis has lived in Marylebone for 44 years and was for many years associated with the Marylebone Association. She has been a councillor for Bryanston and Dorset Square ward for 12 years. She has had a number of roles in the Cabinet including as the portfolio holder for Licensing, Community

estminster is leading the way with London’s first Community Council elected in Queen’s Park on 22nd May. The Community Council is similar to a Parish Council and members are local people from Queen’s Park who will represent the views of their neighbours and community. The 12 new community councillors will work closely with the ward councillors for the benefit of Queen’s Park. They will focus on community activities and events, including the Paddington Festival, befriending, supporting young people and will help to launch and manage Queen’s Park Gardens local allotments.

Queen’s Park was divided into four zones for the election. Each zone will be represented by three Community Councillors. Queen’s Park Community Council for Queen’s Park A ward Ryan Dalton Joe Fernandes Emma Sweeney

Cllr Audrey Lewis

Protection and for Community Services. She is the long-standing Chairman of the Licensing Committee responsible for the new policy and its implementation under the new Licensing Act and more recently she has lead a particular focus on betting shops and shisha cafes. As Chairman of the Housing Policy and Scrutiny Committee, Cllr Lewis also lead innovative projects around designing new housing to prevent crime and the impact of short-term letting on residents. F or more information visit westminster.gov.uk/lord-mayor-of-westminster

Queen’s Park Community Council for Queen’s Park B ward Musa Ahmed Julius Hogben Emma Morgan Queen’s Park Community Council for Queen’s Park C ward Katie Cowan Eartha Sweetie Pond Angela Ruby Singhate Queen’s Park Community Council for Queen’s Park D ward Philip Andokou Gill Fitzhugh Susanna Jane Rustin For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/ queens-park-community-council

yde Park has not always been the public park it is today. For over 100 years it was devoted almost entirely to royal pursuits, after Henry VIII acquired it from the monks of Westminster Abbey in 1536. From then on it was used as a private hunting ground until Charles I opened it to the general public in 1637. Many of its most recognisable features, including the Serpentine, were introduced in the 18th century by Queen Caroline. The Serpentine was one of the first artificial lakes in England and was soon replicated in parks and gardens all over the country. The royal connection continues to this day, thanks to William III who moved his court to Kensington Palace towards the end of the 17th century. Hyde Park has since become a venue for major national celebrations, including fireworks to mark the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1814, and, more recently, live music concerts, Jubilee celebrations

and fundraising runs. It has also played host to events of a less festive nature. During the civil war of 1642-9, parliamentary troops built forts in the park to defend the city of Westminster from royalist attacks, while in 1665, many citizens camped in Hyde Park in an attempt to escape the Great Plague.

Now managed by the Royal Parks, Hyde Park is a much-loved destination for Londoners and visitors. With landmarks including Speakers’ Corner and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and

the Serpentine Lido, as well as a boating lake, stables and tennis courts Hyde Park is the perfect place to stay healthy and relax this summer. Visit royalparks.org.uk/ hydepark for more information.

Westminster has over 80 parks and open spaces with 24 awarded green flag status. Visit westminster.gov.uk/parks to find your nearest.

11 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Queen’s Park Community Council

Lord Mayor

Events

“After five years of attending West End LIVE, last year was the first time I went on Saturday as well as Sunday. Being part of the World Record attempt for biggest air guitar ensemble with the amazing cast of Rock of Ages was definitely my highlight.”

West End LIVE

in association with MasterCard Come along and celebrate 10 years of show stopping performances at West End LIVE!

Lily Tomlinson

A decade of free entertainment

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

est End LIVE is returning to Trafalgar Square on 21st and 22nd June. Packed full of live performances from West End favourites and interactive activities from London’s most popular cultural attractions, it’s the biggest event of its kind and attracts over 500,000 visitors.

ome to show stopping performances and extraordinary entertainment, the West End LIVE stage has played host to a number of historic musical moments. Here are some photos from the past 10 years.

“West End LIVE 2012 was incredible. Especially hearing Rachel Tucker sing Defying Gravity for the first time!! And Les Misérables was amazing!!”

“2014 is a very special year, as it marks a decade of West End LIVE – and we are still the only festival in the world that brings together the best of musical theatre and more in one place, for free. Come and join us and let’s make this the best year yet.”

James Dickens

Cllr Robert Davis, Deputy Leader of Westminster City Council, who created West End LIVE 10 years ago

To celebrate a decade of free, first class entertainment there will be spectacular surprises from the many stand-out shows and performances from the past 10 years.

2013

For more information and the full schedule visit westendlive.co.uk @WestEndLive WestEndLIVE

2006

2008

2009

2010

When: Saturday 21st June, 11am-6pm and Sunday 22nd June, 12 midday-6pm Cost: West End LIVE is a nonticketed event and entry is free. Please be advised that the event gets very busy so there will be queues in the morning before the gates open and throughout the day. You can book tickets for the shows taking part in West End LIVE through officiallondontheatre.co. uk, the official TKTS booth in Leicester Square or in the TKTS tent in Trafalgar Square over the event weekend. West End LIVE is produced by Westminster City Council in partnership with The Society of London Theatre in association with MasterCard. Venue: Trafalgar Square Nearest Tube: Charing Cross, Leicester Square westendlive.co.uk

Top shows BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY THE COMMITMENTS DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS DISNEY’S THE LION KING JERSEY BOYS LES MISÉRABLES MAMMA MIA! MATILDA MISS SAIGON PAJAMA GAME PHANTOM OF THE OPERA REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE’S PRODUCTION OF PORGY AND BESS STOMP THRILLER LIVE WICKED

Top performances BIG DANCE ENO MICHAEL XAVIER’S WEST END MASTERCLASS ROYAL OPERA HOUSE SYLVIA YOUNG THEATRE SCHOOL WEST END KIDS

Exhibitors BENJAMIN POLLOCK’S TOYSHOP BEN AND HOLLY EVERYTHING’S ROSIE FORBIDDEN PLANET LONDON FILM MUSEUM – see classic Bond cars from their exhibition Bond in Motion RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! SCIENCE MUSEUM THE THEATRES TRUST

Plus more shows, performers and exhibitors to be confirmed.

13 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

21st and 22nd June

Events

Your Westminster

Harrow Road

Hidden gems Tell us your favourite places in Westminster. Tweet them to @CityWestminster

“ “

S t. Luke’s Church is a lovely place to go. It’s a real community hub and runs a Fairtrade café every Thursday serving homemade cakes and really good value lunches.” Fiona Doherty, Community Involvement Coordinator, Beethoven Centre

A summer of festivals in Paddington Paddington Festival is now in its second year, kicking off with the Lebanese Festival Day and Westbourne Summer Festival on Sunday 22nd June.

I really like drinking at Paradise Bar by way of Kensal Green. The food is also great. I also go to Fierce Grace hot yoga on Kilburn Lane.” Ryan Dalton, Events Coordinator, Queen’s Park Festival

Festival highlights Sunday 22nd June, from 11am Lebanese Festival Paddington Green, W2 1LG

Love your market

M O

ur plans for a new housing development at 291 Harrow Road have been approved. The development will create 64 intermediate affordable homes for rent including some for key workers in the NHS and other public sectors. We will replace the current specialist housing on the site for people with disabilities with more and improved purpose built accommodation to provide excellent care. We will also provide a play area for younger children and a ball games area to replace the existing temporary facility.

aida Hill Market, near Westbourne Park tube station is Westminster’s newest market. Every Saturday over the summer there will be up to 40 stalls selling quality and affordable antiques, homeware and food including homemade burgers, Italian ice cream and cheese. Pitches are also being offered to graduates from the University of the Arts and artists from The London Print Studio to showcase the very best local talent. Each week there will also be the opportunity to hear from some great speakers from the food, drink and design industry at nearby Maida Hill Place. Maida Hill Market is located at the junction of Harrow Road, Elgin Avenue and Great Western Road, W9 3EU. Visit westminster.gov.uk/markets for more information.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

New leisure facilities for Queen’s Park

lans to merge Moberly and Jubilee Sports Centres have been approved bringing £20 million of sport and leisure facilities to Queen’s Park. Moberly Sports Centre on Kilburn Lane will be rebuilt to include two new swimming pools, an eight-court sports hall, exercise and dance studios, a multi-use hall, boxing hall, multi-sensory and soft play facilities, a health and fitness suite, a spa and community space. Work will begin on Moberly in autumn this year and is due to finish in 2016. Jubilee sports centre will then close

and a new community sports facility including a three-court sports hall and activity space will be built alongside residential housing. From the summer residents can also use an upgraded games area and a new outdoor gym in Queen’s Park Gardens for free, as well as a new synthetic sports pitch at St. Augustine’s School which is already open. The new leisure facilities are funded by our development partner Willmott Dixon through the creation of new homes on the Moberly and Jubilee sites. Visit westminster.gov.uk/activequeenspark for more information.

Paddington Festival

Sunday 22nd June, 1-5pm Westbourne Community Summer Festival

full programme of events and activities will also be taking place across Queen’s Park, Harrow Road and Westbourne and everyone is welcome to join in. From free film screenings, one-day festivals, sport and dance performances, there’s something for all the family.

New to this year’s programme are the Big Dance Bus, Youth Film Festival, Lebanese Festival and a stand-up comedy night.

“My favourite part of the festival is getting the community together.” Mary Amayo, founder of local charity Kyu-Yo-Bu-Shin

Getin into the festival Offers your area atmosphere with these summer offers

Jazz brunch at Queen’s Park Deli Celebrate the launch of the Paddington Festival by joining us in the garden of Queen’s Park Deli for a ‘£5 special’ full English jazz brunch. Bring along this copy of The Reporter to claim your discount. Call the number below to book your place. Newspapers, jazz music and good company are all free. Date: Sunday 22nd June, 10am-2pm Venue: 342 Kilburn Lane, W9 3EF 020 3490 8781

Maida Hill Place, one hour free venue hire Whether you want to trial your business idea, use the commercial kitchen or host an event, book now to get an hour free when you book four hours or more. Date: Until August Venue: Maida Hill Place, 4 Fernhead Road, W9 3ET maidahillplace.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply to all offers, full details at westminster.gov.uk/vfm

Warwick Estate, Grand Union Canal side, by St. Mary Magdalene Church, W2

Sunday 13th July, 1-6pm WECH Summer Festival Elgin Estate, W9 3RS

Sunday 2nd August, 12 midday-6pm Queen’s Park Community Festival Queen’s Park Gardens, Ilbert Street, W10 This festival is to be confirmed, check westminster.gov.uk/paddington-festival for details ahead of festival day

Sunday 10th August, 12 midday-5pm Big Dance Bus Maida Hill Market, junction of Harrow Road and Elgin Avenue, W9 3EU

Plus a family film festival and a week-long youth film festival will take place in venues across Paddington throughout the summer. P ick up a free programme from local schools, libraries, leisure centres and other community venues from late June or visit westminster.gov. uk/paddington-festival for full listings. Details correct at time of going to print. Please check the festival website ahead of events.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

north

Fatima Busefi

Your Westminster

central

City of Sculpture

Free dog microchipping Visit one of our events for dog owners this summer to pick up free neutering vouchers and get your dog microchipped for free.

Oxford Street improvements

urther works are under way to improve Oxford Street between Berwick Street and Hanway Street. A new central reservation for pedestrians will make crossing the road easier by providing a safe area in the middle. We will create more space for pedestrians by removing the bus lay-bys and reducing street clutter. Other improvements include wider pedestrian crossings, raised road surfaces at side road junctions to create an even surface for pedestrians and new lighting columns. The work is due to be completed by the end of August.

Date: Check website for details Venue: Across Westminster

he “Sun”, by American glass sculptor, Dale Chihuly, has travelled far to arrive in Berkeley Square, having been on view in the New York Botanical Garden, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in San Diego and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

“2014 is another exciting year for City of Sculpture – and we hope this well-travelled sculpture will be enjoyed by many both day and night.” Cllr Robert Davis, Deputy Leader of Westminster City Council

The sculpture consists of more than 1,300 handblown glass elements which naturally change according to the light and weather. At night the sculpture is lit from below to provide a warming sun-like glow.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

New Public Square in Fitzrovia Fitzroy Place development led by Exemplar, Aviva Investors and Kaupthing.

itzrovia is already a bustling district in the city, where London’s creative industries thrive alongside some of the finest restaurants and shopping in the capital. A new addition to the area is taking shape with Fitzroy Place, a new development of homes,

Offers in your OFFERS INarea YOUR AREA

shopping and offices, on the former Middlesex Hospital site, bordered by Cleveland Street, Mortimer Street and Riding House Street. Built around Pearson Square, the first new square in London W1 for over 100 years, the development will include 289 new homes, including 54 affordable homes, 20,000 sq ft of shops and restaurants and over 300,000 sq ft of office space. In addition there will be a health clinic and an extension to the neighbouring All Souls Primary School. The listed Victorian hospital chapel has been kept for local community use and will be owned by a local Trust. Tower cranes were removed from site in the spring and the buildings are structurally complete giving passers by a glimpse of what the new offices, homes and shops will look like when completed towards the end of the year.

westminster.gov.uk/ microchipping-event

Free tea or coffee with a pastry Enjoy a free tea or coffee with your morning pastry, cake or croissant at Café in the Courtyard Date: Until October Venue: Café in the Courtyard, St. Martin’s in the Fields, Trafalgar Square

20% off baby and children’s clothes Keep your little one stylish with great discounts at Carry Me Home children’s wear shop off Carnaby Street. Date: Until 16th July Venue: 2.9 Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, W1B 5PW carrymehome.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply to all offers, full details at westminster.gov.uk/vfm

Hidden gems Tell us your favourite places in Westminster. Tweet them to @CityWestminster

“ “ “

History in pictures

My favourite deli in Westminster is Gaby’s on Charing Cross Road – they serve fresh delicious food in a friendly, varied but unpretentious cafe.” Maria Lee The Wallace Collection has world-class art and artefacts – there’s a surprise in every room. And what rooms they are! And all for free. Not to be missed.” Rowland One of my favourite places in Westminster is the Phoenix Garden in Soho. It’s a haven of tranquillity and nature, away from the hustle and bustle of Soho. I even saw a wren there once, you’d never think you were a stone’s throw away from Soho.” Matthew Baker

Piccadilly looking east from Hyde Park Corner in 1910

What’s on Pride in London 28th June Watch one of London’s most vibrant celebrations with a parade of thousands of marchers, rollerskaters, dancers and singers. Venue: Central London Cost: Free Nearest tube: Leicester Square, Oxford Circus prideinlondon.org

Summer activities at the London Transport Museum Venue: London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB Cost: Free for under 17s or £13.50 for adults with a Westminster City Save card Nearest Tube: Covent Garden/ Leicester Square

Free dog training 7th July and 4th August, 11am-12 midday To support responsible dog ownership, Regent’s Park together with the Dog Hub offer free training sessions for

your pet on the first Monday of every month. Venue: The Old Gazebo, The Broad Walk, Regent’s Park Cost: Free 07875 778 785

Summer Streets 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th July, 12 midday-6pm Regent Street will be traffic free every Sunday in July. Come along for events, food, drink and special offers. Venue: Regent Street, W1 Cost: Free regentstreetonline.com

Kid’s Week Throughout August, children aged 16 or under can see a fantastic selection of top London shows free when accompanied by a full paying adult. They can also take part in free pre- or post-theatre activities and workshops. Tickets go on sale on 17th June. Venues: Various West End theatres Cost: Free when accompanied by an adult paying full price kidsweek.co.uk

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Your Westminster

Rooftop refurbishment on Moreton Street

new police hub has been opened at Chaucer House in Churchill Gardens. The hub will allow police and community support officers to have a regular presence in the area and provide reassurance for those who live on the estate. The police can advise you on how to make your home safe and how to report anti-social behaviour and crime.

he roof top multi-sports pitch and play space at Moreton Street reopened this spring following extensive refurbishment. The space which is approximately the size of a tennis court has been fully resurfaced and landscaped. It will provide a safe and welcoming area for children, young people and families in and around the Lillington and Longmore estate. The multi-sports pitch can be used for football, basketball and tennis. Facilities also include a quiet area for reading and educational activities. There are also 26 rooftop allotments which have all been allocated to residents. The council worked closely with CityWest Homes and the Lillington and Longmore Gardens Residents’ Association to bring the play space back into use after it had fallen into disrepair. Opening hours are 10am-7pm throughout the year.

Visit met.police.uk/westminster for more information.

Improvements to Ebury Square Gardens

10% off watersports at Westminster Boating Base Have fun on the river this summer with 10% off watersport sessions for adults aged over 23. Date: Until 31st October Contact: Westminster Boating Base, 136 Grosvenor Road, SW1V 3JY

Great discounts at your leisure centre Get free swimming and other discounts at your leisure centre with a free Active Westminster card. Available to carers, people under 19 and over 65 and those who are unemployed. Date: Ongoing Contact: westminster.gov.uk/active

Terms and conditions apply to all offers. For full details visit westminster.gov.uk/vfm

History in pictures

I love Tachbrook Street market on a Saturday. It’s a food lovers feast with flavours from Thai to Lebanese to Caribbean and beyond, and a delicious range of goods to sample and buy.” Julie Dunlop S t. George’s Square is flanked by old Victorian buildings on one side, there is tranquillity from St Saviour’s church in one corner, sporting activities taking place across the road, and at the far end of the square is Pimlico Gardens with the Thames just beyond.” Andrew Wan

9th August Take your family and friends and experience the fun and freedom of cycling around an eight-mile traffic-free circuit in central London. Venue: Join the route at any point Cost: Free

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“ “ “

M y favourite place in Westminster is the cycling route from Kensington Gardens, through Hyde Park, St. James’s Park and terminating at the end of Pall Mall. Along the way you get to see some of the best of London’s attractions.” Jana Pleyto

Prudential Freecycle

Green plaques

Visit westminster.gov.uk/green-plaques-scheme

Tell us your favourite places in Westminster. Tweet them to @CityWestminster

What’s on

Visit cwh.org.uk for more information.

ur city has a rich heritage, which we celebrate through green plaques. Francis Crick, one of Britain’s greatest scientists, lived at 56 St. George’s Square for two years. Crick is best known for his work with fellow scientist, James Watson, and their identification of the structure of DNA, one of the most important findings in the history of biology. This discovery earned Crick, Watson and fellow molecular biologist, Maurice Wilkins, the Nobel Prize in 1962.

Hidden gems

prudentialridelondon.co.uk

SouthWestFest

erkeley Homes are improving the landscape of Ebury Square Gardens in Belgravia. The aim is to rejuvenate the existing Victorian layout of the gardens, restoring and enhancing existing features. There will be more plants, better natural light through lifting and thinning the existing tree canopy, and better access into the park. This work has been carried out alongside a general upgrade and restoration of existing features, notably the central fountain, and a resurfacing of the existing paths with a resin-bound gravel to improve the look of the gardens.

Visit the gallery’s newly restored Grade II listed building and enjoy BP Spotlight, a series of regularly changing in-depth displays on specific artists or themes. Venue: Tate Britain, Millbank, SW1P 4RG Cost: Free Nearest tube: Pimlico

Pimlico reading group

27th June-13th July

Last Tuesday of the month, 6-7pm

A community festival that brings people together to enjoy everything that SW1 has to offer. This year’s line up includes the Pimlico Proms, Carnival Parade, Festival Gala Day and a comedy night plus much more.

Join Pimlico Library’s reading group to meet new people and discuss a new book each month. New members are always welcome.

Venue: Locations across SW1

Nearest tube: Pimlico

Cost: Free and ticketed events Churton Street, Pimlico in the 1950s

Tate Britain

southwestfest.org.uk

Venue: Pimlico Library, Lupus Street, SW1V 3EY Cost: Free westminster.gov.uk/pimlicolibrary-reading-group

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south

Crime prevention in Churchill Gardens

Offers in your OFFERS INarea YOUR AREA

Health

Since April 2013, responsibility for some aspects of public health transferred from the NHS to local councils.

his means providing you with the information, advice and services you need to live a healthier lifestyle and protect your health, such as promoting low-cost sport, leisure and physical activity opportunities, stop smoking services, sexual health services, health checks for those over 40 or advice and practical skills on healthy eating and active lifestyle for children and families. We have looked at the health issues that are important locally and used these to decide our priorities in allocating where the health budget is best spent. This is decided by an independent health and wellbeing board made up of councillors, health

Are you and your family getting enough vitamin D?

Shape local health and care services

ealthwatch Central West London is a new independent consumer champion for health and social care. Anyone who wants to make sure that the health needs of their community are listened to can join. You can also feed back your experiences as a patient, locate a service or find out about local health issues and what is being done to tackle them. Healthwatch Central West London sits on the local health and wellbeing board to shape health services in Westminster so it’s your chance to really make a difference to local services.

professionals, voluntary organisations and GPs. Across the page you can

find out how to have your say on local health services with Healthwatch Central West

School-run fruit and veg

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Vitamin D

he Community Health Champions on the Mozart Estate in north Westminster are bringing healthy eating to local schools in Queen’s Park. Low-cost healthy snacks will be available after school which are quick and easy to prepare to give parents inspiration for healthy after-school snacks. The Beethoven Centre Green Grocer (formerly the Food Co-op) will be at Queen’s Park school playground every Wednesday so parents can buy reasonably-priced fruit and vegetables without having to go out of their way. There will also be recipes and healthy eating advice from a nutritionist. For more information contact Kimberley Durrance at the Paddington Development Trust on 020 8964 8024, email kimberley@pdt.org.uk or visit communitychampionsuk.org.

London and find out more about local services to keep you healthy and active.

Mental health

f you are feeling anxious, have fears or problems coping with daily life and relationships or are experiencing low moods, counselling may be able to help. Free and confidential counselling for people with depression and anxiety disorders which have arisen fairly recently is available at Westminster’s two mental health hubs. Y ou can be referred by your GP or health professional, call 030 3333 0000 or email westminster.iapt@nhs.net. Visit cnwl.nhs.uk and search ‘westminster wellbeing service’.

Visit healthwatchcwl.co.uk or call 020 8968 7049 to get involved or find out more.

Kick the habit

f you’re a smoker, you’ll be well aware that giving up isn’t easy. But with the help of Kick It, a council-funded advice service, you’re four times more likely to quit for good. Six, free weekly sessions will get you through the hardest part of quitting including advice on medications that can help you, which you’ll get on prescription. You can choose from one-to-one or group sessions. Call 020 3434 2500 or visit kick-it.org.uk to get started.

Local support for pregnant women

aving a baby can be a daunting, challenging and, at times, isolating experience. Professionals don’t always have the answers and sometimes it’s better to find out about local services you need for a healthy and safe pregnancy from someone local. Maternity Champions are local volunteers who provide a community support service to guide new parents through the experience, help more people to access services and link new mums and dads with other new parents. They are being recruited and trained now and will work alongside midwives, health visitors, children’s centre staff and other services. If you live in Queen’s Park and are pregnant or would like to find out more about becoming a Maternity Champion call Emma Sweeney on 020 8964 8024 or email emma@pdt.org.uk.

ost of our vitamin D comes from the summer sun during April to October. Ten to 15 minutes of daily exposure on the face and forearms is enough for light skinned people, the darker the skin the longer the time needed. This is less time than the amount that causes burning which should always be avoided. Only a tiny bit of vitamin D, 10% comes from the food we eat, even if we have a healthy diet. Because our weather isn’t very sunny and we spend so much time indoors it can be hard to get enough vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements are recommended for those at risk of vitamin D deficiency such as people with darker skin, those who cover up for cultural reasons, older people, children, teenagers, obese people, pregnant and breastfeeding women. Women and children who qualify for Healthy Start can get free vitamin D supplements from Health Centres and Children’s Centres. For more information visit healthystart.nhs.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

The council and your health

Domestic abuse

Sport and domestic violence:

Staying safe With the World Cup and Commonwealth Games, 2014 is an exciting year for sports fans. Yet high-tension sporting events are associated with higher rates of domestic violence.

here is a clear link between major sporting events and domestic violence. After England’s 4-1 loss to Germany in the 2010 World Cup, domestic violence reports rose by more than 30%. Watching sporting events, coupled with high levels of alcohol consumption, has been shown to lead to an increase in abusive behaviour, whether teams win or lose.

that there is help out there. Reaching out for support was the best thing I ever did.”

*Name has been changed.

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With young people spending so much time online, it’s important to understand how you can help your children to use the internet safely. If you’re new to Facebook and Twitter, or looking to brush up your skills, sign up for a free computer session at Westminster’s libraries.

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.

F or more information and to sign up for a free computer session visit westminster. gov.uk/events-libraries

Reporting anti-social behaviour

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

If you’re concerned about issues in your area, such as graffiti, excessive noise or violence, you can now report it in confidence at a drop-in surgery on the first and third Monday of the month, from 2-4pm at The Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL.

“Reaching out for support was the best thing I ever did.” Stephanie* lives in Westminster and was in an abusive relationship. She says: “It wasn’t until I reached out for support that I realised I was being abused by my partner. The abuse was mainly emotional – manipulation and mind games – and I never imagined that counted as domestic abuse. It wasn’t until he physically assaulted me that I went to a friend. “There were so many great services that helped me realise I was in an abusive relationship and supported me. The police advised me to call Advance where I had an advocate who I could talk to and get specialist advice from. I had support throughout the whole process, including in court and when accessing financial help. “My biggest message to others is

Stay safe online

If you’re concerned about staying safe this summer there are services that can help: T he Advance Advocacy Project offers a specialist service for women experiencing domestic and sexual violence. Call 020 8960 7016 or visit advanceadvocacyproject.org.uk for more information. T he National Domestic Violence Helpline is a free, confidential, 24-hour helpline for women experiencing domestic violence. Call 0808 2000 247. F or male survivors, the Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for any man experiencing domestic abuse. Call 0808 801 0327 or visit mensadviceline.org.uk. Support for LGBT violence and abuse can be gained from Galop on 020 7704 2040 or galop.org.uk. P erpetrators of domestic violence should call the Respect Phoneline on 0808 802 4040 or visit respectphoneline.org.uk for support on stopping their abusive behaviour.

F or more information call 020 8969 5881

Stay safe this summer Summer means days in the park, BBQs, drinks and long evenings spent outdoors but nothing ruins a summer’s day like pick pockets and con artists. Our website gives you tips and tools to help you keep your belongings safe and reduce your risk of being an easy target. F or more information visit gethomesafelondon.com

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.

23 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Your recycling guide

Safer

Westminster remembers

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Street gallery in St. James’s Park

We will remember them This year marks the centenary of the First World War. To commemorate this important time in our history there will be events and activities throughout the year, and we share stories of those from Westminster who lived through it.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

n July 1916, Corporal Edward Penfold was part of the 40th London Sanitary Section of the Royal Army Medical Corps. Whilst clearing a captured German dug-out on the Somme, he found a Christmas card alongside an enemy soldier he was about to bury. Unable to read German, Edward always wondered what the card said. This year, his daughter Doreen Green from Pimlico, had it translated with the help of Westminster Archives to reveal one small forgotten story.

Doreen explains: “I was showing my granddaughter a collection of things that my father had brought back from the war and she was particularly interested in the card. She had a friend who spoke German so she took a photo of it on her phone and asked him to translate it, but unfortunately her friend said it had been written in old German. “I was at an event with some of the staff from Westminster Archives and we got talking about the card. They took it and had it translated by someone who had previously worked at the Archives but had moved back to Germany. “With the help of the Mayor of the town from where the soldier and his wife lived, we are now trying to trace any living relatives so that we can return this small piece of remembrance back to them.”

Translation of the postcard: My only beloved husband I am writing to tell you that we are still well and in good spirits. I hope the same is so for you, dear husband. Wishing you again a Merry Christmas and a happy, speedy reunion. True, loving to you. Greetings and kisses from little M.

T here are many events and activities taking place across Westminster to commemorate the First World War centenary. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ westminsterremembers for local listings or 1914.org for events taking place across the UK.

Get involved If you’re organising a community event you can submit your listing by emailing epowell@westminster.gov.uk I f you are interested in researching your own local and family First World War heritage, you can access history resources for free in all Westminster libraries and Westminster Archives Centre, with staff on hand to help with your enquiries. westminster.gov.uk/archives If you are part of a community group, Heritage Lottery Fund is running a grant programme for First World War community projects that encourage new perspectives and stories not previously told. If you would like to apply for a grant and need some advice on the application, please contact Westminster Archives Centre on 020 7641 5180.

unique street gallery designed to commemorate the centenary of the First World War is being brought to St. James’s Park from 4th August to 15th September 2014 by Fields of Battle 14-18. On the 4th August only, Westminster Archives will be showcasing images and local stories in the exhibition which also features sixty

large-scale ‘battlescape’ photographs captured over seven years, by photographer Michael St Maur Sheil. Based not on the horrors of war, but on how, over time, nature has healed the battlefields, these evocative and powerful images create a link between the modern day and the personal dramas and stories these peaceful landscapes now hide.

The street gallery is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund in partnership with Royal Parks and Fields of Battle. To find out more about the exhibition visit fieldsofbattle1418.org

Fields of Battle Lands of Peace

14-18

Westminster PLUS

Cycling

Safety, convenience and consideration were three of the top issues that you raised in a consultation on our cycling strategy.

Nominate a carer

lmost 2000 people responded to our cycling consultation earlier this year. Here are two residents who were happy to share more of their views.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

How can we encourage more people to get on their bikes?

Diane Hopwood: I don’t cycle in London because I just don’t feel safe doing so. If there were more cycle lanes I might be tempted. I used to cycle in Germany and Holland where there are areas for cyclists and I never felt unsafe. Felix Pring: We need to get people shouting about the benefits of cycling. For me, cycling is the fastest and most pleasant way to get around. I’m out in the open, it’s very cheap and convenient – I’d much rather be on

my bike than sitting in a traffic jam. And it is great fun.

Do cyclists take enough responsibility for cycle safety? Diane Hopwood: I think cyclists should take responsibility for their own safety. I often see irresponsible behaviour – cyclists not wearing safety helmets, jumping red lights and cutting corners. Felix Pring: Of course there are cyclists who can be foolish and need to take more responsibility for cycle safety. But, ultimately, the cyclist has control of metal and rubber whereas a motorist is in charge of two tonnes of metal. T he council’s cycling strategy will be available at westminster.gov.uk/cyclingstrategy from July.

Our annual Tea Dance at Grosvenor House returns on Sunday 14th December 2014 for Westminster residents aged 65 and over. You can apply for single or pairs of tickets, which are allocated in a prize draw.

Nominate your active hero

f you know an inspiring sports instructor, incredible sports club or active volunteer then nominate them for an ActiveWestminster Award by Friday 26th September 2014. By nominating you could win free gym membership for a year and the winners will be awarded fantastic prizes. Nominations are open from Monday 7th July. Visit westminster.gov.uk/activeawards

Felix Pring

Tea Dance

Free weekend of activities

rom Friday 29th to Sunday 31st August you can enjoy free activities at your local Westminster leisure centre so it’s the perfect time to book that class and try something new. For more information visit westminster. gov.uk/activeweekend

Nominate by 18th August

Visit westminster.gov.uk/teadance or write to Tea Dance, Communications, 18th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP by 29th September to apply (please include names and addresses for you and your guest, you must both live in Westminster).

Spare some time for others

elp an unpaid carer you know to get the recognition they deserve for looking after someone with a long-term illness or disability by nominating them for a carer award. The shortlisted carers will be invited to a glittering awards ceremony at the Thistle Hotel in Marble Arch in October.

“It’s a privilege to have won this award. Everyone was enjoying themselves on the awards Free activities at your evening and not one person hub talked about their job as carers!” community If you’re aged 50 or over and want Marie Mannion, 2013 winner

To nominate, visit westminster.gov.uk/ carers-awards If you would like to attend the event, enter a prize draw for tickets. If you are successful, we will notify you by 1st September. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ carers-awards

to try new things, find out about the services available to you or just get out of the house, visit your community hub. There are 100 weekly activities which are free or low-cost from £1 per session. Call to find out more. hurch Street and Regent’s Park (Penfold hub): C 020 8762 3082, Queen’s Park and Harrow Road hub: 020 7266 2776, Westbourne hub: 020 8962 4141, Churchill hub: 020 7976 6354.

If you are able to spare a couple of hours to visit older people who are lonely, you could become a befriender. You just need to be a friendly face offering chat and support to those who can’t always get out. The voluntary programme is funded by the council and NHS through the Octavia Foundation. all 020 8354 5681 or email C volunteering@octaviafoundation.org.uk to find out if it’s for you.

New online directory

You can find out more about the services available to you through adult social care services and community and voluntary organisations in a new directory. There’s information on money and legal issues, things to do, being a carer and choosing a care home. Visit peoplefirstinfo.org.uk to take a look.

NEW: Carers can now swim free at council leisure centres with an ActiveWestminster card. Ask at your local leisure centre for details or visit westminster.gov.uk/active

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Over to you: cycling

Your magazine to find out more about services for people aged 65+.

Adult Services

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Bringing up children is likely to be one of the most difficult jobs any of us ever do.

eventy five percent of parents and carers say at times they would like help and advice when it comes to being a parent. The council runs courses for parents, from help with teenagers to very young children. Courses are free and can help with learning new parenting skills and strategies, building positive relationships with your child and increasing your confidence as a parent.

There are activities for all ages and interests including cooking, sport, music, play, comedy, art and much more. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ summer-activities

To find out more and to book on to

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

a free parenting course visit westminster.gov.uk/parenting

Recieve the latest updates for parents

Advice on school admission applications

Make the most of what’s on offer for your family with our new monthly enewsletter for parents. Keep up-to-date with the latest offers, activities, services and news.

From September you will be able to apply for your child’s primary school place or their transfer to secondary school. To help you prepare for this important stage in your child’s life, you can take a look at our guide to all aspects of school admissions.

Summer in the City is our guide to free and low-cost things to do during the school holidays. Pick up a free copy from your local school, leisure centre, library or Children’s Centre from July.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ admissions

100 hours of free sport

Supporting your teenager

Eight to 19-year-olds can enjoy free activities all year round with neighbourhood sports clubs. There are free activities every day across Westminster for your children to have fun, make new friends and keep healthy, with everything from boxing and football to athletics and cheerleading.

Leaving school or making decisions about your future is difficult for any teenager. Whether they need support to find work, or are struggling with debt, our guide lists the local services and organisations that can support 16 to 24-year-olds on their journey to further education, training or employment.

For a full list of activities pick up

an Active Guide from your leisure centre, library or visit westminster.gov.uk/active-guide

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ little-book-westminster

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You need to make sure that you’re on the updated register, or you might not be able to vote in future.

For more information please go to www.gov.uk/yourvotematters

If you weren’t registered previously, you can register under the new system at gov.uk/register-to-vote

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he council will write THE WAY WE ALL REGISTER to you to let you know TO VOTE IS CHANGING about the change. You could be one of the residents who has to re-register so please look out for a letter in July that will tell you if you need to take action. Our Electoral Registration staff will also YOUR VOTE MATTERS MAKE SURE YOU’RE IN be knocking on doors around Westminster, starting in August, to help you with the process. The new system is called Individual Electoral Registration. Previously, the ‘head of household’ was responsible for registering everyone who lived at an address, but now every individual is responsible for their own voter registration. The new system means that for the first time you are now able to register online. To register, you will need to provide a few more details, including your National Insurance number and date of birth to help make the electoral register more secure. Most people who are already registered have been transferred automatically to the new register. However some people will need to re-register. There are also people who are not registered to vote at all and so need to register to have their say in elections.

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What’s On On events Autumn What’s and activities ties Summer & events

The way you register to vote is changing across the UK. In Westminster some residents may need to take action to join the new register, even if you were registered in the past.

2012

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Parenting support

The way you register to vote is changing

Issue 15, Summer

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

The Foster Carer diaries

’m Cathy. I’m a mum and foster carer. We need more people to come forward to be foster parents to give children a loving and supportive home. I hope my experiences in this fostering series give you an insight into what it’s like to be a foster parent.

Don’t make assumptions “As a single parent I was worried that I wouldn’t be eligible to foster. I thought they might think that I wouldn’t be able to cope with a foster child on top of looking after my own children. But as it was something I’d been thinking about for a while and I was really excited about, I gave the council a call. “Whether you’re single, a same sex couple or don’t own your own home you are still eligible to foster. There are

“Foster caring is my future. I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Cathy, foster carer

a lot less restrictions than you think so I’m glad I decided to look into it. The other thing I was worried about was that I don’t have a spare room, but I was told I could foster babies as there are rules on the age that children can share rooms.” T ake the first step and talk to us about fostering so we can answer any questions you may have. Call 0800 169 3497, visit westminster.gov.uk/fostering or visit us at our next fostering information event:

Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP, 3rd July, 6-8pm

Hammersmith Town Hall, King Street, W6 9JU 19th June, 10am-12 midday 23rd July, 10am-12 midday 13th August, 6-8pm

15:24

2014

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.

Emma Morgan lives in Queen’s Park and is a volunteer for the Paddington Festival which runs from June to September. She was recently elected to the Queen’s Park Community Council.

Paddington Festival

Emma’s Westminster favourites Restaurant This is a hard one because I really love my food, but my husband and I recently went to The Waterway Restaurant in Maida Vale and were impressed with both the food and the service. However, I am a loyal New Bengal eater which is in Royal Oak. It’s very reasonable and really excellent service.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

“T

he Paddington Festival is a heartfelt event led by the local community. I’ve been involved as a volunteer for the past two years. I go to offer an extra pair of hands. I live across from Queen’s Park so it would almost be sinful if I didn’t volunteer! “Over the past few years, the festival has grown and is hugely varied. It’s a great platform for young local artists and start-up businesses. It’s also an opportunity for young people to be part of something that’s not just for young people. Britain culturally keeps age groups quite separate but at this festival, everyone is welcome. “I’ve lived in the area all my life and I love it. The festival gives the community an occasion to celebrate the best things about living here. My favourite events

Park Queen’s Park Gardens, also known as Ilbert Park. Though not as grand as some of the other lovely parks in Westminster, Ilbert Park holds some very dear memories for me and my siblings. I spent the majority of my school holidays running about in it. are the park days – I plan my holiday around the Queen’s Park Festival! “Last year, a lot of churches got involved and I went to the ecumenical service – the music was spectacular. “There is lots planned this year – film showings for the over 60s, the park days, a comedy festival and food is always a big part of the events.” find out what’s on at the Paddington Festival To or to volunteer, visit westminster.gov.uk/ paddington-festival

Market There is something quite special about Church Street Market for me. It is a special place with a mean Moroccan fish stall!

Leisure Centre Jubilee Sports Centre, where me and my siblings all learned to swim.

30 CTHLAIM JUN BY E*

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Together, Westminster City Council and Better have invested over £1.2 million in your local leisure centres over the past year. To help you try your nearest centre, we’re offering you a FREE ONE DAY PASS at the following leisure centres: Jubilee Sports Centre Caird Street, London, W10 4RR Little Venice Sports Centre 10 Crompton Street, W2 1ND Marshall Street Leisure Centre 15 Marshall Street, London, W1F 7EL Moberly Sports and Education Centre 101 The Quadrant, Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH Paddington Recreation Ground Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale, W9 1PD Queen Mother Sports Centre 223 Vauxhall Bridge Road, Victoria, London SW1V 1EL Seymour Leisure Centre Seymour Place, London, W1H 5TJ The Porchester Centre Queensway, Baywater, London, W2 5HS

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*Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.better.org.uk/terms for details. This pass is valid at Better leisure centres in The City of Westminster only. Customers using the gym must satisfactorily complete a pre-exercise questionnaire and a pre-booked induction prior to use. Offer valid for one day and must be redeemed by 30 th June 2014. Booking is essential for racquet sports and group exercise classes and is subject to availability. Only valid to non members, 16 years and over. Centre and swim safety rules apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 30 th June 2014. Better is a registered trademark of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise. Registered address: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX IPS Registered No. 27793R Inland Revenue Charity No. XR43398