Westminster Reporter by Westminster City Council

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W E S T M I N S T E R

ISSUE ISSUE108 91 SUMMER 2008 2012 DECEMBER

Westminster City Council magazine

Reuse and reduce this Christmas

Go green

2 1 2S0PECIAL

How being eco-friendly can cut your costs

Find out Learn what’s on new skills this summer Courses on offer in

How you can save waste and money

Love your market Where you can get good quality at great prices

a library near you

West Where End doesLIVE your

Helping young people into work

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recycling go?

Find out what the council New-look does with it Leicester Square CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

£5,000 worth of Selfridges vouchers

WIN! See page 7

The Sugababes give Oxford Street the special touch

theatre tickets

2012 Games A How they affect you E V A H N E E GCRHRISTMAS

Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

see page 8

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

Community Reassurance

ADVERT

2 The Westminster Reporter

Westminster City Council magazine

contents Follow us on

@CityWestminster

Cover Image © ckingimages

ISSUE 108 SUMMER 2012

Photograph © ckingimages

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.

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Also available from libraries and leisure centres. For general enquiries, call the council switchboard on 020 7641 6000. 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 The editorial team: Claire Appleby, Nicky Jackson and Clym Sutcliffe. Advertising: please contact Cath McNeill on 020 7641 2476, or cmcneill@westminster.gov.uk. 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.

Olympic athlete Bradley Wiggins who was born and raised in Westminster, with Mark Cavendish. Both athletes will compete in the cycle road race which starts and finishes on The Mall.

Leicester Square launch

Summer of sport

West End LIVE

What’s on for ple? young people?

How will 2012 affect you?

PLUS

Torch Relay

Win theatre tickets ts – page 8

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Published by Westminster City Council, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP Printed by Service Point UK Ltd, 161-165 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3AL Printed on FSC® certified material. Please recycle The Westminster Reporter. For more information on recycling call the 0. Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000.

The Westminster Reporter 3

News in brief

Youth Column Sport can make such a big difference La Toya Moffat set up Spirit Cheerleading, a girls cheerleading squad at Avenues Youth Project in Queen’s Park. She tells us why sport is so important nt for young people.

Jubilee news

housands of spectatorss lined the Diamond Jubilee procession route from Whitehall to Buckingham Palace on 5th June June. Westminster came alive with local celebrations as 62 registered street parties and events took place; more than double the number held in celebration of last year’s Royal Wedding.

“S

port can make such a big difference to young people’s lives. Obviously, it can make you healthier. But it can n also give you more confidence and help you to feel much betterr about yourself. “A few of the girls in my squad have been bullied at school. There’s one girl in particular who o when she comes to a cheerleading class it just completely lights her up. It brings out her real personality. She’s in a different environment, surrounded by different people. I think a lot of young people need that - somewhere they can express themselves in a way that they can’t always do at school. “And you don’t need to be one of those people who is really good at football or basketball. My advice is to try something new, something different. Just go along to your local youth club they’ll be able to give you advice or put you in contact with coaches or clubs.

SSee e the th h ph phot photos hotos att we westminster. sttminster i gov.uk/jubilee. g

N 111 number for New uurgent medical help “When I moved to this area I realised that there were no cheerleading squads in West London. So I started one up when I was 15. “And that’s the other thing about sport; it can give you great opportunities. I’m now running my own business and I’ve a got a coaching qualification which is equivalent to a degree. Some of the girls I’ve coached are starting to take coaching courses themselves, which makes me really proud. “So, my advice to all young people in Westminster is to get out there, find a sport and just give it a go.”

To find out how to gert involved in sport visit westminster.gov.uk/active.

4 The Westminster Reporter

f you need urgent medical help, but it isn’t an emergency, you can now call 111. It’s free to call and a fast and easy way to get the right help. Fully trained advisers will ask you questions to assess your symptoms, give you healthcare advice and direct you to the right local service as quickly as possible. This could be your local GP, urgent care centre, community nurses, emergency dentist or lateopening chemist. You can use the number when you need help fast but it’s not life threatening, or when you don’t know who to call. For urgent medical help call 111 free.

Changes to advice services – have your say

ell us what you think about our plans to change advice services in Westminster to provide an even better service for those who most need it. This includes advice services currently delivered by Age Concern, Citizens Advice Bureau, Action for Children and six other community groups. Visit westminster.gov.uk/advice to have your say by 22nd August.

Cleaner streets

n extra 22 street sweepers are now on your streets. They formed part of the 40-strong street cleaning team that cleared up 50,000 plastic bottles in an hour and 40 minutes after the London Marathon. To help keep streets litter-free and reduce waste disposal costs, we’ve also launched a new initiative to encourage people to recycle their lunchtime packaging, plastic bottles and newspapers. Bin Scan Win stickers can be found on 450 onstreet recycling bins in Westminster and Camden. Just scan the sticker with your smart phone when you recycle to be entered into a prize draw to win £20 of high street vouchers every day. The initiative is funded by Defra to help increase recycling rates. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ binscanwin to o find do out ut m more. ore.

Leader’s Column Preparing for the 2012 Games In just a few weeks, and with the eyes of the world upon us, London will host the 30th Olympic and Paralympic Games and in doing so will uniquelyy become the first city to host the Games for the third time.

estminster will be a focal point for many of these activities not least with three Olympic events hosted in the city. It is a great opportunity for us to showcase the best that Westminster has to offer as we welcome 205 nations, taking part in 300 events. I recognise though thatt the Games will put a strain in on the city. The council has as worked hard to try to minimise the impact that the Games will have on local residents and businesses but inevitably there will be some disruption, given the number of people coming into the city and the staging of the events themselves. In this issue, we look at what’s going on in Westminster during the Games and provide information and advice so that you can enjoy the summer whilst keeping any disruption to a minimum. I am also delighted that we saw a revamped Leicester Square open a few weeks ago, just in time for the Games, providing a fitting focal point for the West End. The square’s opening marks

the completion of a number of major projects that the council has undertaken in the last few years to improve the city’s infrastructure, including the Piccadilly two-way, the Marble Arch revamp and the Oxford Street Crossing. Finally, with summer nearly here I hope that you will be able to enjoy the best that the city has to offer over the coming weeks.

Cllr Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council

The Westminster Reporter 5

Visit the new-look Leice T newly refurbished Leicester Square opened with the premiere The oof the Johnny Depp film, Dark Shadows, attended by the Hollywood star s himself. The premiere was followed by five days of events and a screenings as well as a family zone and exclusive trailers of upcoming u releases.

he new-look square features new white granite seating, new n paving, state-of-the-art lighting li and landscaped gardens. The T redevelopment took 18 months m to transform the area into i a world-class location for residents, r workers and visitors to enjoy e just in time for the biggest summer s London’s ever seen.

With 250,000 people passing through the square every day, it is hoped that the improvements will encourage more people to stop and enjoy this iconic location. Eleven side streets leading onto the square have also been improved with new paving and more outdoor dining. New facilities for major events are also likely to re-establish the square as the home of major film premieres, bringing more mo businesses and tourism to the area. The square was last redeveloped in 1993 19 and the latest improvements are expected ex to last for at least 25 years. “ “We’ve spent a lot of time in LLeicester Square over the years and d it’s nice to see how it has changed.. it TThe area is nice and shaded and feels a lot bigger. The square is fe definitely a place where people can d n ccome and sit and enjoy the ssurroundings, especially in weather like lik this.” thi ” Helen Wallbridge and Jane Ghappell H

6 Th The W Westminster i R Reporter

ster Square “W only ever “We used to walk use through it. Now itt thr looks gorgeous. We will definitely loo ill d fi i l spend spe end more time here he on our next visits from Ireland.” fr Aileen and Aile Elizabeth Eli

“We haven’t visited the square in a long time but the redevelopment is really nice. We love thee fountains and the Shakespeare statue is a real feature now. It’s great to see all these people here enjoying the new space.” Kelly Li and Tim Hewitt

The Westminster Reporter 7

Terms and condition s ap ply

WIN! Community Reassurance

Family tickets to Les Misérables Photo: Alastair Muir

Free West En West End LIVE in association with Mastercard is coming to Trafalgar Square on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June. Come along to see the very best of London theatre live and FREE.

The world’s longest running musical Les Misérables will be performing at West End LIVE for the first time in the festival’s history along with debut West End LIVE performances from classic shows including The Phantom of the Opera and Blood Brothers. To celebrate West End LIVE, win one of two top-price family tickets to Les Misérables at the Queen’s Theatre. Each family ticket consists of four tickets. This international award-winning musical sweeps its audience through an epic tale of passion and destruction, against the backdrop of a nation in the grip of revolution. Seen by more than 60 million people worldwide in 42 countries and in 21 languages, this spectacular adaptation of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece continues to thrill audiences night after night. To enter, email reporter@westminster. gov.uk with ‘Les Mis’ in the subject line by 31st July 2012. Visit westminster.gov. uk/reporter for terms and conditions. You can also enter our competitions by post. Write to The Westminster Reporter, 17th floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP stating which competition you are entering and your telephone number.

8 The Westminster Reporter

or the first time ever casts from every West End musical will perform at this popular two-day event. Many of theatre’s biggest stars will give exclusive performances showing why London theatre is the best in the world. West End LIVE 2012 will be bigger and better than ever as it kicks off the first weekend of the Cultural Olympiad programme of events and is an official part of the London 2012 Festival. This year there’s a new Stars on Sunday stage featuring solo performances from top West End performers including Mark Evans who plays the leading role in Ghost. There will also be family activities with marquees featuring some

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of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular attractions, museums and galleries including the Science Museum, Angelina Ballerina and Ripleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Believe it or Not. Sc You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to book, just turn up on the day and join in. To book tickets for the shows taking part in West End LIVE visit officiallondontheatre.co.uk. o West End LIVE is produced by Westminster City Council in partnership with The T Society of London Theatre in association with MasterCard.

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Dooees your little angel love to dance and Does dream of becoming a famous ballerina just like Angelina Ballerina? If so, enter our competition for your chance to win Angelina Ballerina prizes including a tutu, wrap-over cardigan, socks, and ballerina shoes. T Angelina Ballerina Dance Academy The will have a pop-up dance studio at West w EEnd LIVE. There will be lots of fun for the ffamily with dancing, face-painting, hair sstyling and competitions and Angelina Ballerina will make a gguest appearance. B pp

WIN! To celebrate its appearance att West End LIVE, Madame Tussauds is giving away a free family ticket. Filled with 14 exciting, interactive zones and the excellent Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experience, Madame Tussauds London combines glitz and glamour with incredible history with over 300 wax figures, including David Beckham, Lady Gaga, Th The Queen and now the Duke and Du Duchess of Cambridge, plus many more. Ke Keep an eye out for the Madame Tus Tussauds marquee in Trafalgar Square at West End LIVE.

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Visit westendlive.co.uk for more information.

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The Westminster Reporter 9

2S0PE1C2IAL

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10 The Westminster Reporter

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For regular updates on changes to council services during the Games, visit westminster.gov.uk/olympics or follow us on twitter @CityWestminster.

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Lancaster Gate

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(Olympic Cycling Road Race 28 and 29 July) (Olympic Triathlon 4 and 7 August) (Olympic Race Walk 4 and 11 August) (Olympic Marathon on 5 and 12 August) (Paralympic Marathon on 9 September) Earls Court route Recommended spectator walking

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Hyde Park will be used for Triathlon on Saturday 4 August and Tuesday 7 August and Marathon Swim on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 August

Live Site

ORN on road event days only Affected station London 2012 venue Olympic Live Site Resident and business parking protection area Road event route - roads closed see road event map for details

(closed to traffic except cyclists when the ORN/PRN is in operation)

when they will be closed to cyclists. West Carriage Drive will be closed to traffic from 1st to 10th August. The area around St. James’s Park will be one of the busiest during the Games as it will host road events and the beach volleyball competition. From 18th June, access to areas of St. James’s Park and The Mall will be restricted so the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) can build the 15,000 seat arena and 6,000 seat grandstands for the beach volleyball. Access will be reinstated by the end of September.

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he Olympic and Paralympic Route Networks will connect accommodation and sporting venues to ensure that athletes get to their events on time. Most routes will be open to general traffic but you cannot park or stop on these roads and there will be restrictions on side turns. Some parking and loading bays will be suspended. During the Olympic and Paralympic Games Constitution Hill, Birdcage Walk and Horse Guards Parade will be closed to vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use these roads except on road event days,

The Olympic and Paralympic Route Networks

Westminster will be particularly busy this summer as roads, parks and venues are transformed into sporting and cultural venues.

2.3.12

Se Services will run m more frequently on many routes but allow extra time fo for your journeys. Visit tfl.gov.uk/gamestravel.

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To plan your bus, rail and tube journeys visit getaheadofthegames.com.

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Contacts

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2 London 2012 Photograph © ckingimages

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Roadshows

Fi out more about how you’ll be affected by the Games and how to Find pl plan ahead at a Transport forr London (TfL) roadshow in July. Roadshows will take place Ro in and around the areas most affected by road changes in early July. Locations, dates and times will be advertised at westminster.gov.uk/olympics shortly.

Social care Social care services during the Olympic and Paralympic Games will continue as usual although there may be delays during road event days as getting around will take longer. The busiest days are expected to be the 26th, 28th and 29th July and 4th, 5th, 7th, 11th and 12th August. Please call the organisation providing your service first. If you are still experiencing problems please call: 020 7641 1175 (adult services) 020 7641 7560 (children’s services) Services that may be affected are home meals, carers and social workers.

Updates Updates on changes to your services during the Games: westminster.gov.uk/olympics @CityWestminster

Waste and recycling For information on waste and recycling collections, street cleansing and other street issues, and to report noise disturbances please call: 020 7641 2000 (24 hours)

The Westminster Reporter 11

2S0PE1C2IAL London 2012

Photograph © ckingimages

Olympic events From 18th June, some areas of Westminster will be transformed into Olympic competition venues.

The Mall

Access

he Mall will be closed to traffic and pedestrians from 18th June when construction begins on the two temporary venues. It will reopen on 30th September. There will be access to Buckingham Palace via other routes that will be clearly marked. There will also be north-south access for pedestrians across St. James’s Park using Marlborough Road, except on road event days. s. As well as the two venues, athlete areas, training courts, offices, scoreboards and concessions will be built and 4,000 tonnes of sand will be brought in for the beach volleyball courts. During the Games, Birdcage Walk and Whitehall will be closed to traffic. Local buses will still be able to use Whitehall and pedestrians will still be able to use Marlborough Road except on road event days. During road event days there will be some additional road closures that may start from early morning until the evening to safely set up the race sites.

T Mall will host the start and finish of The th the road race cycling events (28th and July) the Olympic Olymp and Paralympic Marathons (5th 29th July), and 12th August and 9th September) and the Race Walk (4th and 11th August). Grandstands with a capacity of 6,000 will line The Mall.

Horse Guards Parade

H Horse Guards Pa Parade will host the beach volleyball from 28th July to 9th Au August and a 15,000-seat arena will be built to host the competition.

London 2012

“I especially es like football and swimming and I’m looking forward to seeing the Olympians compete. I’m planning to have a Ol party at home for all of my family and pa friends so that we can watch the Games frie together.” Sayed Hashimzay, Pimlico toge “It’s a real privilege for London to be hosting the Olympic Games this summer, especially as it’s just weeks after the Diamond Jubilee celebrations – perfect timing! We’re looking forward to the fantastic atmosphere that the Olympics will bring to our city and being part off something so wonderful. We are so looking forward ward to supporting our British competitors and winning many gold medals.” Nicki Hookings, Marylebone

“I am in line to go to the 2012 Olympics. This is a really exciting opportunity for me, fencing in front of a home crowd at the most incredible event on the planet. The Olympics and Paralympics are what most athletes dream about, but only a few get to participate. We are so lucky to have it in our home country. It brings opportunities for everyone whether it’s through competing, volunteering or spectating.” Corinna Lawrence, UK’s number one fencer, Olympic hopeful and Active Westminster Award winner

Corinna Lawrence 12 The Westminster Reporter

Using the Royal Parks Lord’s

Lo Lord’s Cricket Ground will host the Olympic ar archery competition from 27th July to 3rd August. With up to 4,500 spectators per session, there will be fewer spectators visiting the venue than during an international cricket match, but there will be some changes to how the venue operates. Some temporary facilities will need to be installed at Lord’s, such as stands and a temporary public address system. Work began on 15th June and will continue until after the One Day International on 29th June.

Security, access and parking

round Lord’s, Wellington Place between Wellington Road and Cochrane Street will be closed to vehicles from 18th July to 3rd August and Wellington Place between Wellington Road and Cavendish Avenue will be closed to traffic from 27th July to 3rd August, so that the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) can carry out vehicle security checks. Pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to use this road. Residents and businesses on the affected stretch of Wellington Place will be provided with local access permits from LOCOG. To accommodate the large number of visitors to the archery during the Games, as well as to minimise disruption to residents and local businesses, LOCOG will manage traffic in the area. From late July, some parking bays in St. John’s Wood Road will not be in use and vehicles will not be able to stop along the street. Also, Cochrane Street and Wellington Place will be one way, with traffic allowed northbound along Cochrane Street and westbound along the section of Wellington Place not closed to vehicle traffic. The council will protect residents’ bays on major event days during the Games and beyond by using flap-down signs that show only residents are allowed to park in these spaces. For more details on LOCOG’s traffic and parking plans visit london2012.com/accessandparking.

Green Pa G Park rk k Green Park will remain open throughout the Games and cycle parking will be provided during road events.

Hyde Park Hyde Park will host BT London Live from 28th July to 11th August bringing you live BBC coverage of the sporting action on large screens. There will also be free entertainment including music performances and sporting activities. BT London Live is free to attend – just turn up on the day. There is the option to book tickets. This will guarantee you entry before 2pm. You will need to pay a small booking fee. To book, please visit btlondonlive.com. The park will also host the London 2012 Shop, the Torch Relay Finale concert on 26th July, the Opening Ceremony Celebration concert on 27th July and the Closing Ceremony Celebration concert on 12th August. These events require tickets. Hyde Park will also host the triathlon (4th and 7th August) and marathon swimming (9th and 10th August). The park will remain open but some areas such as the triathlon and marathon swimming venue on the north bank of the Serpentine Lake will only be open to ticket holders.

St. James’s Park The south and west sections of St. James’s Park nearest to Buckingham Palace will remain open. Areas north and east of the lake in St. James’s Park will be closed from 18th June to prepare for the road events and beach volleyball. For further information visit royalparks.org.uk/ london-2012.

Trafalgar Square: Paralympic Live Site BT London Live will relocate to Trafalgar Square from 29th August to 9th September where it will host the Paralympic Live Site. Coverage of the Paralympic Games will be shown on giant screens from 11am to 11.30pm each day and there will be live music concerts each night. For more information, visit btlondonlive.com/trafalgar-square.

The Westminster Reporter 13

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Olympic and Paralympic PLA

E ST MOR Road event details G I W

E RO

EET D STR OXFOR Bond Street

The cycle road race, race walk, marathons and the cycling element of the triathlon will take place on Westminster roads.

GE NT

Road race timetable

Marble Arch

Oxford

ST RE

Key

26th July

Route of Olympic Cycling Road Race - Roads Closed (Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 July)

Torch relay – Central London

R PA

Route of Olympic Triathlon - Roads Closed (Saturday 4 and Tuesday 7 August)

28th-29th July

Live of Olympic Race Walk - Roads Closed Route Site 4 and Saturday 11 August) (Saturday

PIC

4th and 7th August

Route of Olympic/Paralympic Marathon Roads Closed (Olympic Marathon on Sunday 5 and Sunday 12 August) (Paralympic Marathon on Sunday 9 September) 2.3.12

Triathlon – Hyde Park - South Carriage Drive - Constitution Hill - Buckingham Palace - Constitution Hill - Serpentine Rd

4th and 11th August

Hyde Park

Race walks – The Mall - Constitution Hill - Buckingham Palace - The Mall

H KNIG

5th and 12th August (Olympics) 9th September (Paralympics) Marathons – The Mall - Birdcage Walk - Parliament Square - Victoria Embankment - St. Paul’s Cathedral - Tower Hill The Mall

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The Mall

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CONSTITUTION HILL

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Knightsbridge towards South West London and Surrey

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10th September

500

V Victoria

Celebration parade – Central London

Road closures Watching the events

T These events are frfree to watch and route except for the there are spectator areas along the route, start and finish lines. To plan your journey and check for any last-minute changes before you travel visit getaheadofthegames.com.

14 The Westminster Reporter

Cycle road races – Start and finish on The Mall

Ro events will involve extensive Road ro road closures and parking restrictions in affected areas from the early hours of the morning until late in the evening on event days to make sure the events are safe and secure and run smoothly. Roads will be reopened in stages so people can disperse safely, starting with the busiest, priority routes. Roads will continue to open through the evening on each event day.

London 2012

road events London 2012

Tottenham Court Road

“I’m really looking forward to the Olympics this summer. With the taking in h Games G ki place l i our borough I am excited to have the opportunity to see events for free, but I will also be going to the Olympic stadium to see the athletics with my school. ol. We were given 144 tickets because we are a London on 2012 Get Set partner.

KIN AY GSW

d Circus

Covent Garden ST

Leicester Square

St. James’s Park

Westminster

ALK CAGE W St. James’s Park

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VI C T

Waterloo

MILLBAN

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Horse Guards Parade

“Recently, I met Lord Coe, Sir Steve Redgrave and many other sports stars through activities and events at Westminster Academy. One day I would like to be one of the students that goes from the playground to the podium.” Abigail Alayu

Embankment E b k t

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From 9th July, the direction of traffic through the Kingsway underpass will temporarily be reversed to run southbound from Kingsway to Waterloo Bridge. The reversal will assist movement to and from the London 2012 media hub in Bloomsbury. The underpass will return to normal service after the Olympic Games and is not required for the Paralympic Games. For road closure information and to use the temporary road changes planning tool, visit getaheadofthegames.com.

Dedicated to personalised care If you are currently searching for a care home offering the highest standards of nursing and residential care as well as specialist care for people with dementia, come and visit Forrester Court and see how we can make a difference. Forrester Court has been awarded The Gold Standard Framework, care homes Accreditation for the high quality of care provided for people in their ﬁnal years of life.

Our homes specialise in quality, personalised care and aim to ensure every resident experiences: UÊÊ ÊÀ V Ê> `ÊvÕ w }Ê vi UÊÊ v ÀÌÊ> `ÊÀi>ÃÃÕÀ> Vi UÊÊ ,iÃ«iVÌÊ> `Ê` } ÌÞ

Visit us or call: Forrester Court Cirencester Street, Off Harrow Road Paddington, London. W2 5SR Tel: 0207 266 3174 manager.forrestercourt@careuk.com www.forrestercourtpaddington.co.uk

Care UK has nursing and residential homes throughout London. For more information visit: www.careuk.com

The Westminster Reporter 15

2S0PE1C2IAL London 2012

Olympic torch visits Westminster London 2012

The Olympic torch will pass through Westminster on Thursday 26th July on the final day of its journey before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium for the Opening Ceremony of the Games.

he torch is expected to be carried along the Bayswater Road to Marble Arch before heading to Piccadilly via Oxford Street and Regent Street. It is anticipated that the torch will then make its way to Whitehall via Charing Cross Road and along Birdcage Walk and Constitution Hill before reaching Hyde Park where an evening celebration for 80,000 people will take place. The torch is planned to arrive in Westminster in the late afternoon and thousands of people are expected to line the route to celebrate the start of the Games and support local torch bearers.

Eight thousand people will carry the flame across the UK including 22 in Westminster. The torch bearers were nominated for their achievements or contribution to their community.

Meet your local torch bearers

ois Roche, 18, lives in Maida Vale and was nominated to carry the Olympic torch through Westminster because of her outstanding achievements in sport. She has played football for Ireland in the under 16s and under 19s European Championships, has played for Arsenal and is now at Reading Ladies. Lois says: “It’s such an honour to carry the Olympic torch. The Games coming to O London is a once in a lifetime experience and Lo it’s it amazing to be a part of it. I was shocked when I first found out and it still hasn’t really w sunk su in. I’m very excited but also a bit nervous and hope I don’t drop it! n “Having the chance to carry the flame makes me feel involved in the Games and m Lois Roche gives me the chance to represent my g

country, but being able to carry it through Westminster really is the icing on the cake. It means so much more to me because it’s where I’ve grown up and means all my friends and family will be able to come out and support me on the day.”

aman Jafar turned his life around when he was living in a hostel at 16. He decided he wanted to do something positive with his life and help other people. He passed his FA Level 1 coaching award and now volunteers at community football club, Kyu-Yo-Bu-Shin where he coaches young people. He says: “I couldn’t believe Saman Jafar it when I found out I would be carrying the torch. It’s like a dream come true. When I’m older and have children, I will be able to show them the torch and tell them I was part of history.”

For more information visit london2012.com/olympictorchrelay.

16 The Westminster Reporter

RI T GH AK T ET RO H AD E

U R E IC

Help tackle youth violence

We’ve responded to rising serious youth violence in Westminster by launching our groundbreaking gangs programme, Your Choice. It helps support gang members to leave gang life, as well as intervening early to deter younger children from being recruited into gangs.

e’re also setting up a series of Your Choice: Your Community events, to involve residents more closely in how we tackle youth violence in our community. Our next event is planned for August and will be an opportunity for you to meet with gang outreach workers,

the police and other organisations to exchange ideas, voice concerns and find out more about Your Choice. Let us know the type of speakers and information you’d like to be included in this event. Please contact Caroline Tredwell on 020 7641 4442 or email ctredwell@westminster.gov.uk.

David Savizon is a gang outreach worker who works with gang members and vulnerable young people in schools and youth clubs.

e helps young gang members to understand they have a choice: either to leave gang life behind, or face up to a range of tough penalties.

“If young people are willing to turn their eir life around, we can help them.” David Savizon

David says: “It’s about making it clear that if young people are willing to turn their life around then en we can help them. The alternative is enforcement, and nd that’s not nice for either themselves or their families.” s.” To drive home the message about tough consequences, David id helped h l d to run a prison trip for local young people. He says: “They were suddenly faced with a situation they could actually find themselves in. Our aim is to help young people understand the consequences of their involvement in gangs and motivate them to take action to leave that way of life.” For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/yourchoice.

Keeping Westminster safe during the Games Westminster is always extremely busy and during the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer, will be even more so.

e think that around five million more people will be in London every day during the Games, and that 95% of these extra visitors will come to Westminster. Whilst this means that the atmosphere in the city will be amazing, it also means that there is a possibility that crimes such as pick-pocketing, shop lifting and low-level assault may increase. The police are prepared and will continue to police Westminster with the same dedication and commitment throughout the summer as we always do. Our local officers will be supplemented by aadditional officers brought in to police tthe events and tourist areas. A lot of planning has gone into policing p Westminster during Games time and W tthe police and council are working together to make sure the Games is to ffun, safe and secure for everyone. We want people to enjoy the incredible ssummer the Games will bring, so make ssure you keep aware, take care of yourself and your belongings, and make the most of the experience – without being affected by opportunist criminals. For advice on how to stay safe and things to do in the city this summer, visit westminster.gov.uk/olympicwestend.

The Westminster Reporter 17

01 2 S DON L PE 20 ON CIA 12 DO L SP N EC IAL 20 LO 12 ND SP ON EC IA L

d t an nd a por to sto spsotretr e d i ide tmin o sp orrt and to t insste etm r gu guur s id de id gu e s W YouYourYo e e ine in Win estminster ueris i uleris ure n Wes leisle

2S0PE1C2IAL

12 r 20 mbe r 2012 epte embe l – S – Sept 2012 Apri April Apri S tember A il – Sep

Get involved in spor This summer is an exciting time to try out free sporting activities. Here are just a few ways you can get involved.

Opening and Closing ceremony open days

Park Makers

o celebrate the start and finish of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, we’re offering 483 hours of free events and activities at six leisure centres on 27th July, 12th August, 29th August and 9th September to coincide with the opening and closing ceremonies. Visit westminster.gov.uk/olympics for listings.

Free 2012 sport taster sessions

ry out the beach volleyball court at Academy Sport and play on sand from the Olympic volleyball test event on Horse Guards Parade.

Mondays, 5-7pm Volleyball

ake the most of local parks and open spaces by joining a Park Makers activity session. You can join parks staff and volunteers as they run ad hoc and programmed activities to help you stay healthy and active in the open air.

Activities are available at: • St. George’s Square Gardens • St. John’s Wood Church Gardens • Paddington Recreation Ground • Porchester Square Gardens • Victoria Embankment Gardens • Westbourne Green Open Space. Chaka Clarke is a Park Maker volunteer and runs an outdoor fitness session at Paddington Recreation Ground from 6 to 7.30pm on Wednesdays. He says: “I want to inspire people from all walks of life, from school children who dread gym class to busy professionals who find squeezing in exercise a chore.” For more information on sport in Westminster, pick up p an a Act ActiveWestminster Guide from leisure centres ceen ntrees and libraries.

Mondays, 5.15-6.15pm Archery

ON AL ND CI LO SPE 12 20 ON IAL ND EC LO SP 12 20

20 LON 12 D SP ON EC IA L

Wednesday, 5-7pm

d port an e to sto t and uid or gur rou ide sp ter gu s YouYo ou in tm You s e to spo re guid terrt and in W uire re in Westmins leislei le su e ei le leis ure in Westminster

Basketball

Fridays, 5-6.30pm

12 mber 20 – Septe ember 2012 AprilApril – Sept April – September 2012

Beach Volleyball For more information contact Academy Sport on n 020 7121 0642.

18 The Westminster Reporter

Sign up for daily email upda updates date tes d during uri ring tthe he G Games. ames E Email maili reporter@westminster.gov.uk.

rt this summer Eartha Pond, 28, is a sports teacher at Westminster Academy and in 2011 won Sports Teacher of the Year. She hopes to qualify for a place in the GB football and handball teams and says:

“I

encourage all my students to have the mindset that everything is achievable as long as they work hard to ensure they succeed. “Sport has taught me a lot of life skills as well as making me more independent. Therefore I try to ensure all my students have at least one sport that they enjoy and aspire to excel within recreationally or competitively.” Eartha Pond

C Champion of the Future and basketball player Melita Emanuel-Carr, 17, plays for the uunder 18s England team and hopes to represent Britain in the 2016 Olympic Games. She recently featured in the Adidas ‘take to the stage’ TV and billboard campaign S alongside a David Beckham. Melita Emanuel-Carr

elita says: “The Games will allow young people to see how exciting sport can be and will motivate them to become an Olympian at whatever w sport they like to create better British athletes for the future. “I think it will do a lot to improve sport in Westminster as young athletes at like me will get recognised in England, which will open up so many m more opportunities for us.” Visit westminster.gov.uk/champions to watch Melita train and V find fi out more about the Champions of the Future scheme to support su talented young athletes.

To find out more about sport in Westminster visit westminster.gov.uk/active or email sport@westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter 19

2S0PE1C2IAL

Your Westminster Find out what’s going on in your local area and how to get involved. Big Dance 2012 When: Until 15th July What: Thousands of events in different dance styles, open to all ages and abilities including classes, workshops, flashmobs, competitions and world record attempts. Where: Various, see website for details Contact: bigdance2012.com Cost: Free Nearest tube: Various

Music Day 2012 When: 23rd June, 11am-9pm What: This annual music festival returns with installations, performances and a world music stage in Kensington Gardens. Where: Exhibition Road, SW7 Contact: exhibitionroad.com Cost: Free Nearest tube: South Kensington

BT River of Music When: 21st-22nd July What: A weekend of free music from around the world along the river Thames. Where: Various locations including Somerset House, Trafalgar Square and the Tower of London Contact: btlondon2012.co.uk Cost: Free, tickets required Nearest tube: Various

Olympic journey: The story of The Games When: 28th July - 12th August What: Find out about the history of the Olympic and Paralympic Games at this fascinating exhibition. Where: Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD

20 The Westminster Reporter

Contact: 020 7304 4000 or visit roh.org.uk Cost: Free Nearest tube: Covent Garden

London Outdoor Arts Festival: Showtime When: 24th July, 12 midday-5pm What: Outdoor theatre and acrobatics, music, comedy and a chance to meet the gardeners from CBeebies. Where: Paddington Recreation Ground, Randolph Avenue, W9 1PD Contact: 020 7641 2498 Cost: Free Nearest tube: Kilburn Park/Maida Vale

Bandstand marathon When: 9th September, 1pm What: Live music performances from the Pad Rec bandstand. Where: Paddington Recreation Ground, Randolph Avenue, W9 1PD Contact: 020 7641 2498 Cost: Free Nearest tube: Kilburn Park/Maida Vale

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/olympics

Drought and hosepipe ban

he hosepipe ban means you cannot use a hosepipe to wash cars, in your garden or to clean windows and paths. Council swimming pools will be in use as usual although the paddling pool at Causton Street Gardens will be closed this summer. For free water-saving gadgets visit thameswater.co.uk or to find out more including what the council is doing to save water visit westminster.gov.uk/drought.

Be an electoral canvasser

e’re recruiting canvassers to work from September to November 2012. You will be required q to visit properties during ev evenings and weekends. Payment is performance based with £1.50 pa paid for each completed form re returned. A good canvasser can ea earn up to £700. E Email electoralservices@ westminster.gov.uk or call w 020 7641 2730 for details and 0 to apply.

The drains on your street need cleaning

or they will block and ﬂood They may also start to smell

WARNING PARKING SUSPENDED

To help us clean the drains, please observe the parking suspensions.

Drain cleaning will be taking place shortly Please observe parking suspensions and help us keep Westminster’s streets safe and clean Westminster City Council Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

Loading Stopping Waiting

Suspension signs for residents bays go up at least ﬁve days in advance. Bays are returned to service as soon as the cleaning is done. westminster.gov.uk/draincleaning

Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter 21

council has invested £20,000 to help secondary school students set up and run their own businesses £20,000 The

Helping young people into work u o y d i D . . . w o n k al businesses

The 3,000 3 young people looking for work in Westminster can now get help fro from a new initiative to create 2,012 new jobs, apprenticeships p and work eexperience opportunities by the end of the year.

e will work with “Hiring apprentices is local businesses ...860 loc ticeships in business-friendly... it’s tto identify and create en offer appr inster? cheaper than if we did it tth these opportunities and Westm m match a them up with ourselves, so we are not schoo scho schools, colleges and youth only providing a benefit to clubs to help young people to the community, but also find out abo about them. ourselves too” The new initiative launched at an event at Westminster Iqbal Wahhab OBE Kingsway College in April when 166 local businesses pledged to support Cllr Nickie Aiken (second from left) with young young people into work by hiring chefs from Kingsway College at the 2,012 launch. them as employees or apprentices and offering work experience placements. Iqbal Wahhab OBE, Founder of Roast and the Cinnamon Club, says: “Hiring apprentices is business-friendly as agencies help to find the right people. It’s cheaper than if we did it ourselves, so we are not only providing a benefit to the community, but also ourselves too.”

Iqbal Wahhab

To find out more about 2,012 opportunities visit westminster.gov. uk/2012opportunities or email cswoffer@westminster.gov.uk.

22 The Westminster Reporter

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

stminster ildre rennﬁrst cch hild ﬁrst

Your magazi ne to ﬁnd and young out people’s servicemore about children ’s s

Issue 12, Spring/ Summer 2011

Issue 15, Summer

West End LIVE & Kids Wee k Bette

r than for 2012! ever

Wha Take t’s On centre

Summ stage er activities & events Kids week and West End LIVE

Team Eclipse at the Young Enterprise awards.

Young Y oung Enterprise Scheme The council has invested £20,000 to help secondary school students set up and run their own businesses through the Young Enterprise Scheme.

he efforts of the young entrepreneurs were recognised at an awards ceremony at the King’s Fund headquarters when the winning team, Eclipse from The Grey Coat Hospital, were awarded top prize pr for their custom-made t-shirt company. co The Eclipse team applied business skills sk to their product development by interviewing their classmates and teachers to find out what they te wanted. Eclipse will now compete w against other winners from across ag the th country. Simonette Carlton-Crew, 16, Managing Director of Eclipse, says: M “We “W put a lot of effort in to developing a product and finding de out ou what would appeal to our classmates and teachers. It was an cla exciting challenge and we worked ex together to get things done on time. to

J the Join Summer S Reading R Challenge

tep into Story Lab, and you’re off on an imaginative adventure that knows no bounds. The brainchild of Prof Cortex, the Story Lab’s on board computer, Story Lab is a five-sided hi-tech HQ that attracts stories from all over the world and sends them spinning throughout the city – and beyond! Here you can read, collect, share, create, transmit and broadcast stories. Story Lab is this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Encourage your children to read six books of their choice over the summer holidays and they’ll win stickers and rewards along the way and a certificate and medal if they complete the challenge. We’re also looking for young people (aged 15+) to be volunteer mentors on the scheme, encouraging children in their reading and giving out rewards.

To find out how to get involved, pop into your local library or visit westminster.gov.uk/services/ libraries/children.

Healthy Startt vitamins

offer FREE Stor theatre for familie y Lab s

This year’ s Summer reading Chall What’senge on is here!

this summer?

Activities Bab y eventsndly and Frie Breastfeed ing suppo for new mum rt s WI family N a to Le ticket ga Blond lly e

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f you’re on the Healthy Start scheme, h remember to pick up your FREE vitamins – just bring your vitamin coupon. Vitamins are available at all Westminster’s Children’s Centres and some Health Centres. You can also buy them for a small charge. Extra vitamins are important for mums-to be, new mums and young children.

Vaccinations on Facebook

ou can now find out about childhood vaccinations on facebook. For information and news on all children’s jabs in North West London visit facebook.com/ NWLvaccination and spread the news by giving it a Like.

Parent partnership

re you the parent of a child with Special Educational Needs (SEN)? If so, we can help. The council’s Parent Partnership Officer is here to help you understand the services available, and give you valuable, impartial advice and information on what’s best for you and your child. Find out more at westminster. gov.uk/parentpartnership.

To subscribe to Children First and get a FREE copy of the magazine delivered to your door three times per year, simply email your name and address to childrenfirst@ westminster.gov.uk.

WIN

ticke ! Horr ts to Hist ible or LIVEies

Westminster Children First, Westminste Issue 12, Spring/Summe r Children r 2011 First, Issue 15, Summer 2012

The Westminster Reporter 23

2012

Love your market Fed up of soggy sandwiches and tasteless vegetables? Then why not visit your local market to buy fresh and tasty local food that supports local businesses?

n recognition of the excellent customer service and high quality products offered at Westminster’s markets, Love your Market returns this summer. You can nominate your

local market trader to win two months free trading worth up to £700. Prizes are also on offer for your favourite market and best new market trader.

Charles Dale, Flat Cap Coffee, Strutton Ground Market

revious Love Your Market winner Charles Dale has been at Strutton Ground Market for the past 20 years and has run the Flat Cap Coffee stall for the past four. He says: “We received some great feedback following the award. We had people coming here that had never been to Strutton Ground before. “This is one of the oldest markets in London and there’s a great community feel to the place. It’s important that

people know what they can expect from their local market – the best customer service and great quality produce at really competitive prices. “We are one of the small businesses here trying to survive and are fully dependent on our brilliant customers, both regular and new. So I’d encourage people to nominate as the awards help to raise awareness of local markets, and encourage people to shop locally.”

Vote at westminster.gov.uk/lym by 7th July. Shortlisted entries will be visited by an independent panel before the winners are announced. Charles Dale, Flat Cap Coffee 24 The Westminster Reporter

Bee Alabi

“ “There’s a good variety off food stalls here and the fo price is really good as well.” p Bee Alabi, Berwick Street B Market M

Anbeya Begum

“I love the community feel about the market, I know ab the traders and always bump th into friends.” Anbeya Church Street Market y Begum, g

Guide to local markets

Mohammed Abdul-Mahid

“ “I’ve been coming to the market for 40 years, the produce is really good. I know p ow the traders well and knew their parents too!” th Thomas Tobin Mohammed AbdulM Mahid, Church M Street Market St

“T florists’ stall always “The has a wide selection of ha flowers and always looks flo lovely.” lovelyy ” Thomas Tobin, Tobin, Strutton Strutt Ground Market Carol Heully

“There are a lot of sandwich shops in the area but I love “ the variety of food stalls that you get down at the th market.” Carol Heully, m y, Strutton Ground Market

Berwick Street M Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm One of the oldest markets in the country, O ssteeped in history and located in the heart of Soho. Pick up vintage clothing, fresh bread S aand cakes and fruit and vegetables.

Church Street M Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm TThe market is at its most vibrant on Saturdays with 200 stalls selling everything from clothes w aand household goods to jewellery and fresh food.

Rupert Street M Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm A small market with a large variety of take-away food including Mexican, Moroccan and Thai. fo

Strutton Ground M Mon-Fri, 8am-2.30pm A bustling lunchtime market just off Victoria Street selling hot food, coffee, flowers, clothes S aand fruit and veg.

Tachbrook Street S 8am-6pm Sat, TThe market relaunched in 2010 and now ooffers a variety of street food including Thai, Moroccan and Indian. There’s also seasonal M frfruit and veg, fresh fish and cheese.

The Westminster Reporter 25

Try a new activity, meet new people and enj enjoy joy a ffun-fi un fi fill lled lled d summer at a free or low cost activity this summer. Look out for our summer listings brochure, Summer in the City, available from schools, libraries, youth clubs and Children’s Centres from July. residents and face painting plus local and professional acts on the main stage.

Portobello Road Arts Day When: 14th July, 1-4pm Age: 5-8 What: An enormous dragon, monkey puppets and a gigantic lobster are among some of the characters taking over Portobello Road. Come along for a fun afternoon of street theatre and arts. Where: Portobello Road, W10 5TD Contact: Call 020 7361 3618 or email arts@rbkc.gov.uk Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Ladbroke Grove/Notting Hill Gate K.

Carnival Arts Weeks

Where: Queen’s Park Gardens, Ilbert Street, W10 Contact: Call 020 8964 8024 or visit queensparkforum.org Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Queen’s Park W.

SouthWestFest 2012 When: 22nd June - 31st July Age: All What: Festival fortnight kick starts with OlymPimlico including a Carnival Parade, Gala Day and the open air Pimlico Proms. Where: Various locations in SW1

When: 23rd-27th July/6th-10th August and 20th–24th August, 10.30am-4pm Age: 8-18 What: A chance to take part in creative workshops around art, dance and music for the famous Notting Hill Carnival. Where: The Clement James Centre, 95 Sirdar Road, W11 4EQ Contact: Call 020 7221 8801 or visit clementjames.org Cost: £10 per week Nearest Tube: Latimer Road Buses: 295 K.

Contact: Call 020 7222 0303 or visit southwestfest.org.uk Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Pimlico/Victoria W.

St. Andrew’s Summer Project When: 23rd July - 24th August, 3pm Age: 9-19 What: Try out DJ mixing, graffiti art, archery, table tennis and cookery plus trips including go-karting and paintballing.

Summer sports When: 23rd July - 31st August. Various times, visit website for details Age: 6-13 Half and full-day sessions and drop-ins for a variety of sports and activities including basketball, beach volleyball, dance, trampolining and tennis. Where: Academy Sport, Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Contact: 020 7121 0642 Cost: £2.20 per day Nearest Tube: Royal Oak W.

Play Makers When: Daily afternoon sessions (times may vary) Age: 8-14 What: Free daily play sessions in parks, playgrounds and open spaces across the city. Activities are chosen by children on the day and may include team sports, arts and crafts or adventurous play. Specialist Play Makers will also provide activities for children with disabilities. Where: Various locations across the city Contact: Call 020 7641 1107 Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Various W.

Where: St. Andrew’s Club, Alec Wizard House, 12 Old Pye Street, SW1P 2DG Contact: Call 020 7222 6481 or email info@ standrewsclub.com

Queen’s Park Summer Festival When: 28th July, 12 midday-6pm Age: All What: Olympic events, afternoon tea for older

Cost: Please call for details Nearest Tube: St. James’s Park W.

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/inthecity Key: H. Hammersmith and Fulham Disability access

26 The Westminster Reporter

Kensington and Chelsea

Westminster City Council

Ter m s and conditi ons apply

FREE!

Free theatre offers from Kids Week I

Come to the Big SHOUT Have your say on how youth services are run, discuss the issues that are important to you and find out more about the services available to you at a new youth summit on 23rd June.

he event, organised by youth councils at Westminster, Hammersmith & Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea, is being held at Chelsea FC and will be attended by 300 young people. Attendees will learn more about sexual and emotional health, employment and volunteering opportunities and communicating with the police in a series of workshops. There will also be taster sessions including cheerleading, DJing and a d drama. da a Syeda Sultana

“W

e’re passionate about getting the voice of young people out there th and The Big SHOUT will give us the chance ch to get our opinions heard. And because be it’s run by young people for young yo people, it’s a great environment for fo people to speak up. Young people often of think there’s not much for them to do, d but they just don’t know what’s going g on – The Big SHOUT is just one of lots lo of opportunities out there.” Syeda Sultana, 18 S

To find out more about The Big SHOUT, or to register to come along, visit westminster.gov.uk/bigshout.

Kids Week is back for the 15th year this August to help more children and young people get involved in theatre. Children aged 16 or under can go free to any participating show when accompanied by an adult paying full price. Up to two extra children’s tickets can be purchased at half price. There are also lots of free activities, workshops and events including dance workshops, peeks behind w the scenes and post-show meet and greets with the stars of the show.

Visit kidsweek.co.uk for details.

The Westminster Reporter 27

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