your ISSUE 83 – WINTER 2018
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THANK YOU FOR HELPING CROYDON RECYCLE MORE AND WASTE LESS
38%
before
RECYCLING RATES ROCKET SINCE NEW BIN COLLECTION See page 3
47%
current
50% target
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WINTER 2018
Wishing you a Highlights green Christmas Green Christmas for I am incredibly proud to report that last month we saw the largest ever increase in Croydon’s recycling figures, which went up a massive nine percent. This is a direct result of the new bin collection system we have introduced to encourage recycling, and it is thanks to all of you for making this positive change. I want to thank all of you for bearing with us during the ongoing changeover – this is a real achievement, and together we are making Croydon greener. However, welcome though the increase in recycling rates is, in terms of the challenges we face to make Croydon truly green and sustainable, it is only the beginning. Along with much of London, one of our key challenges is poor air quality in parts of our town and it is becoming a real threat to our health. During the summer, Croydon University Hospital saw a significant increase in the number of residents attending A&E as a result of breathing difficulties linked to poor air quality. More children suffer from asthma caused by poor air now than for many years. As a council we have taken some steps, like stopping cars parking near school gates, but our powers are limited, and we have lobbied both government and the Mayor of London about extending the much-used tram service. So, looking forward, the question for us all is, as individuals and families, what are we prepared to do about the challenge of protecting both our local and global environment? Should we have more pedestrianised areas, or perhaps reduce parking charges for electric cars? Could we do more to radically reduce the use of plastic? Are there parts of Croydon you believe would benefit from new or improved bus services, and is enough being done to make cycling an option for more people? Should companies allow more working from home to reduce the number of journeys (or if we are being really radical, consider car-free days, as are already being implemented in some places?). As the popularity of David Attenborough’s TV program Blue Planet has illustrated these are all big questions everyone is interested in. They are key to all our futures and I look forward to hearing from you on this at tony.newman@croydon.gov.uk However, in the meantime, I wish everyone a happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year, and if you’re having a Christmas tree look out for when the council will be calling to collect it for recycling. Season's greetings.
Croydon……….4, 5 Hundreds of new trees and sustainable travel plans for a cleaner, greener borough.
Festive fun ……. 6, 7, 9 Arts and culture at Christmas and beyond, and Croydon's new cultural internship programme.
Helping the homeless ………. 9, 11 The projects helping rough sleepers off the streets and into homes, and an award-winning homlessness prevention scheme.
Seasonal schedules ..........… 10 Information on bin collections, opening hours and parking over the festive period.
Celebrating unsung heroes …….........18, 19 Meet the Civic Award winners making a difference to people's lives in their local communities.
Stay warm and well ………....….. 20 Take care of yourself through the winter season.
Councillor Tony Newman Leader of the council @cllrtony
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For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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RECYCLING RATES ROCKET AFTER NEW BINS INTRODUCED Croydon’s new recycling and bin collection regime has already boosted the borough’s recycling rates, which have increased to 47% in just a few months. Most households across the borough were given two new bins, offering them more room to recycle with a large wheelie bin for paper and card and another for mixed recycling. The scheme, which also introduced changes so flats above shops had domestic recycling collections for the first time ever, was intended to boost Croydon's recycling rate to more than 50% over two years. However, since it was introduced in September, Croydon’s recycling rate has rocketed up to 47% from 38% - in just 12 weeks. A small number of properties will continue to use the old recycling boxes but more than 250,000 bins were delivered across the borough. At the same time nearly three quarters of properties changed collection days. Some disruption was caused as the new system was introduced and we thank residents for their patience and support during the changeover. If committed residents can help Croydon achieve its ambitious target of recycling more than half of all refuse the borough produces, then we will become one of the greenest boroughs in London. Turn to page 8 to find out more about recycling and refuse collections over the Christmas period.
COUNCIL SECURES THREE-YEAR COURT ORDER BANNING ILLEGAL ENCAMPMENTS A three-year injunction protecting highways and green spaces across Croydon was granted on Wednesday 17 October. The High Court Order bans anyone from occupying land or disposing of waste on 213 of the borough’s parks, open spaces, council land and 12 highways. The council initially used evidence of large-scale flytipping and the cost of clearing it, damage to gates and barriers and a high number of incidents to secure an interim injunction. The interim injunction was enforced twice over three months, once being used to help move an illegal
encampment of around 50 caravans from Purley Way Playing Fields. The granting of this new order means Croydon Council no longer has to attend court to obtain removal orders for each new encampment. High Court Enforcement Officers can be called upon in future to assist with moving people on from the protected sites. Failure to comply with the order can result in imprisonment, fines or seizure of assets.
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WINTER 2018
HUNDREDS OF TREES TO BE PLANTED IN AIR QUALITY DRIVE Around 650 young trees will be planted in Croydon over the coming months in a major drive to help improve air quality.
A further 180 saplings were planted last spring, bringing the total number of trees planted this financial year to more than 800. Croydon Council has pledged more than £700k for tree planting over the next five years, promising an array of spring and autumn colour for the borough. This five-year plan will see thousands of trees planted in Croydon’s streets, prioritising the north of the borough to address high levels of pollution by increasing the tree canopy. As part of this project, ageing trees will be replaced to ensure Croydon remains one of the greenest London boroughs. Planting began earlier this month with work continuing through to March 2019. Next year, the council aims to plant more trees than the 830 that will be planted in the first year of this five-year project.
Tree team officers Helen Lomasney and Matthew Burnell
To find out more or ask if your area could be suitable for a new tree then email treesandwoodlands@croydon.gov.uk
Young Street Champions ask if you can help your community A pair of young and dedicated community heroes are appealing for help to tackle litter in their community. Caitlin Lelsa, 16, and her friend LucyAnn Butterworth, 15, decided to set up a community clean scheme to help keep New Addington looking its best. The Meridian School students contacted the council and were helped to become Street Champions. Every week they head out after school at 4pm on a Monday, meeting by the New Addington Centre. The council help them and supply litter-picking equipment but the pair are calling on more people to get involved. Caitlin said: “I’ve lived here in New Addington my whole life and I’ve noticed the litter has got out of hand recently. “We litter-pick every Monday at
4pm and post about it on social media beforehand. Anyone is welcome to join us, even if it’s for 15 minutes. It’s a great thing to do.” You can stay up-to-date with the duo and find out how to get involved by following them on their Facebook page called New Addington Cleanup. Lucy-Ann said: “Like Caitlin, I’ve lived in New Addington my whole life and we didn’t want to see little kids go around seeing litter everywhere and thinking that it’s acceptable to drop litter. “Dropping litter is not okay and it’s not the right thing to do. Hopefully they can follow our example.” If you’re interested in becoming
a Street Champion or finding out about events in your area contact street.champions@croydon.gov.uk
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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REVOLUTIONISING CROYDON’S TRANSPORT NETWORK WITH GREENER TRAVEL Plans to revolutionise Croydon’s transport network with major investment into greener methods of travel have been submitted to the Mayor of London for approval. The council is bidding for £9m over three years to invest in a huge range of transport improvements, which will encourage more sustainable travel around the borough, such as walking and cycling. Proposals include additional resources for cycle-training; support for the rollout of a cycle hire scheme; new electric vehicle charging points; and schemes to make streets safer and increase walking and cycling to and from schools. They are part of Croydon’s Local Implementation Plan (LIP), which sets out how the council plans to meet the aims of the Mayor of London’s Transport Strategy. The Mayor’s strategy includes
targets such as reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads to zero by 2041, and increasing the proportion of journeys by foot, cycle or public transport in Croydon to 50% by 2021. Croydon’s LIP promotes greener, healthier methods of travel right across the borough, building on the success of the borough’s cycling strategy, which creates cycle-friendly routes on less busy streets. The plan also sets out proposals for ‘healthy schools neighbourhoods’ which will encourage children to walk or cycle to school. A project to create three pedestrian zones around schools across the borough has already increased the
number of children walking or cycling to school. Croydon’s LIP, which sets out a programme of investment running into 2022, was approved by Croydon’s cabinet at a meeting on Monday 15 October. It has now been sent to the Mayor and Transport for London (TfL) for review and approval.
Dedicated volunteers help transform Reeves Corner
A hard-working group of volunteers helped transform a much-loved area of Croydon town centre when Croydon’s Street Champions teamed up with McDonald’s 'Love Where You Live' campaign. More than 30 staff, from six separate restaurants, teamed up with staff and Street Champions from Croydon Council’s Don’t Mess with Croydon campaign and Croydon Business Improvement District (BID) to clear around a quarter of a tonne of waste and litter from Reeves Corner. Each participant selflessly offered four hours of their time, equating to more than 120 hours of work in total, to clear away rubbish and weeds from the site. In total, 110 bags of rubbish were collected during the clean-up.
Owner of the site Graham Reeves, said: “It’s amazing that McDonald's with the support of the local community around them have made the area so much cleaner and tidier. “As a family run business, we greatly appreciate the time, the effort and dedication of the team of volunteers who have brought a previously neglected area back to life.” Don’t Mess With Croydon helps to run a host of community litter picks throughout the year. If you want help to run a litter pick please contact us at champions@croydon.gov.uk
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WINTER 2018
FESTIVE FUN With Christmas fast approaching Croydon has been enjoying a jam-packed programme of entertainment in the town centre. Young Mayor William Awomoyi kick-started the action on 15 November, switching on the festive lights while special guests from children’s cartoon PJ Masks provided entertainment. And shoppers have delighted in Croydon’s Christmas Market, which brought more than 30 chalets of food, drink and Christmas gift stalls to North End throughout November. The festive cheer continues this month, as local schools and choirs treat shoppers to their favourite carols in Whitgift Square, raising money for their chosen causes.
POP-UPS TRANSFORM TOWN CENTRE WITH LOCAL TALENT Exciting pop-ups are transforming the town centre this Christmas and beyond, showcasing local talent and bringing entertainment to all. BRIT Presents, a dazzling series of showcase performances, is bringing the creativity, energy and diversity of The BRIT School students to public spaces. Head to the High Street
Brit Presents, Khronos Dance
pedestrianised area on Thursday 12 December at 5.30pm and 6.30pm to enjoy free performances from musical theatre students. Sponsored by Croydon Council and
Croydon BID, this series continues with more dates in the New Year. Meanwhile Zoo Co’s new pop-up theatre at 50-51 Trinity Court, Whitgift Centre, offers a packed programme for all ages and abilities. Throughout December and January, the Croydon-based theatre company will offer a host of exciting performances, drama workshops and events. Their Shop and Sing Christmas will take place from on Saturday 22 December at 2-5pm -gather at 4.30pm for a finale parade around the shopping centre. All are free or pay what you can visit www.wearezooco.uk Meanwhile FMM Pop Up, a social enterprise born from the historical popup nature of Fashion Meets Music, can be found in Croydon’s Centrale Shopping Centre. FMM Pop Up gives emerging designers their first step on the retail ladder, giving them space to test their product with the public and supporting them to produce their first fashion shows, workshops and more.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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New cultural internships offer young people paid placements with UK’s leading arts organisations A pioneering new cultural internship programme is offering Croydon’s young people an unprecedented opportunity to gain paid work experience with both internationally-acclaimed and local arts organisations, helping them to kick-start creative careers.
Run it Back by TYPT:18, Talawa's annual collaboration with emerging black theatre makers in early 2019 as a pilot, with plans to increase this to 20 placements by 2020. Find out more and how to apply at www.croydon.gov.uk/jobsatcroydon/ cultural-internships Michael Buffong, artistic director, Talawa Theatre Company, said: "We're
DECK THE HALLS Deck the Halls will be taking place at St John the Evangelist on Friday 14 December, at 7pm and 9pm. Guest performers will include the Croydon Citadel Band of the Salvation Army and the joint choirs and orchestras from Rockmount and Cypress Primary Schools. Sponsored by the council’s community fund, the event supports Crisis with a special performance from their Skylight choir. Tickets start at £5 for children and £15 for adults, with concessions and family tickets available. Visit www. londonmozartplayers.com/concert/ deck-the-halls
delighted to be part of the cultural internships scheme. High quality, well-structured, paid internships like this reflect our commitment to opening up the world of theatre and providing the best opportunities for future generations."
The UK’s oldest chamber orchestra, London Mozart Players (LMP) have lined up a programme of festive family treats for their Christmas event.
Credit: Sanaa Abstrakt
The UK’s leading black theatre company, Talawa; Croydon’s world-class chamber orchestra, the London Mozart Players (LMP); world-famous The BRIT school; fashion company FMM Pop Up, who have just moved to Croydon from Camden; and Croydon Music and Arts are among those offering placements. Open to young people aged 16-24, the internships will help young people to gain valuable work experience in a historically hard-to-access sector. All placements will offer the London Living Wage. The initiative has been developed by Croydon Council, which has brought together creative organisations and the borough’s new Cultural Partnership corporate sponsorship scheme to offer young people new career opportunities. It is supported by Croydon Partnership, the joint venture between Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Hammerson which is set to redevelop Croydon’s retail centre, who are platinum members of Croydon’s Cultural Partnership scheme. The project will offer five placements
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WINTER 2018
FESTIVE SEASON OPENING HOURS Access Croydon, Bernard Weatherill House
Monday 24 December Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Monday 31 January Tuesday 1 January Wednesday 2 January
Closed Closed Closed
Refuse and recycling collection date changes NORMAL COLLECTION DATE
REVISED COLLECTION DATE
Monday 24 December
Unchanged
Tuesday 25 December
Thursday 27 December
Wednesday 26 December
Friday 28 December
Thursday 27 December
Saturday 29 December
Friday 28 December
Monday 31 December
Closed
Monday 31 December
Wednesday 2 January
Closed Closed
Tuesday 1 January
Thursday 3 January
Wednesday 2 January
Friday 4 January
Thursday 3 January
Saturday 5 January
Friday 4 January
Monday 7 January
Monday 7 January
Tuesday 8 January
Tuesday 8 January
Wednesday 9 January
Wednesday 9 January
Thursday 10 January
Thursday 10 January
Friday 11 January
Friday 11 January
Saturday 12 January
9am-4pm 9am-4pm 9am-4pm Closed
9am-4pm
Croydon Council call centre
Monday 24 December Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Monday 31 January Tuesday 1 January Wednesday 2 January
BIN COLLECTION TIMETABLE
9am-4pm 9am-4pm
9am-4pm Closed 9am-4pm
Croydon libraries Saturday 22 December Sunday 23 December Monday 24 December Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December Saturday 29 December Sunday 30 December
Open as usual Closed Closed Closed Closed Open as usual Open as usual Open as usual Closed
Monday 1 January Tuesday 2 January
Closed Open as usual
Customers can renew their library books online and use a free 24/7 offer of eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines, newspapers and all sorts of online resources at www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/ libraries/online-library
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING COLLECTIONS If you choose to have a real Christmas tree this year then don’t forget it can be collected and recycled for free after the festive season. All you need to do is remove decorations and pots or plant holders. Kerbside collections will begin on Monday 14 January and last for two weeks. Please put your tree out for collection on the same day as your refuse.
USUAL COLLECTIONS WILL RESUME FROM MONDAY 14 JANUARY Missed collections can be reported via MyAccount at www.croydon.gov.uk/myaccount or by calling 020 8726 6200.
CHRISTMAS PARKING IN CROYDON A little present from the council as parking rules relaxed for festive period To help spread a little festive cheer parking restrictions in council-owned car parks and on-street bays across Croydon will be relaxed over the festive period. The change will help people visiting shops for some late Christmas present shopping, enjoying the displays of festive illuminations or simply dropping in on relatives to share in the season of good will. The whole borough will be free of parking enforcement in council-run car parks and on-street bays on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Yellow-line, footway and bus lane restrictions, however, will remain in place on these days, and motorists should park in a reasonable manner, showing consideration for other road users and pedestrians. Normal parking enforcement will be in place from 27 to 30 December, and resume on Wednesday 2 January 2019.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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Fairfield Fans Get Set – Programme Announcements Are About To Commence Fans of Fairfield Halls get set - the borough’s iconic entertainment venue is gearing up to announce more acts for its opening season in the next few weeks. Croydon’s much-loved arts centre will re-open its doors in September 2019, following a £30m council refurbishment which has seen it transformed into an entertainment venue fit for the 21st century. Neil Chandler, BH Live’s venue & artistic director of Fairfield Halls, said: “It has been fantastic watching our wonderful new venue take shape, particularly the incredibly positive reaction from those who have enjoyed a preview of what is to come on our behind-the-scenes tours. “I’m delighted that in just a few short weeks, we will be at the exciting stage where we can start to reveal the performances that are planned for our opening season, as we raise the curtain on the next chapter of Fairfield Halls’ history.” Comedians Jimmy Carr, Rob Beckett and Russell Kane have already confirmed they will be performing at the venue in the inaugural season. To be the first in the know, fans can join the Fairfield Halls
mailing list now at www.fairfieldhalls.co.uk The refurbished and air conditioned 1,759-seat concert hall; a new glass extension; the Community Cube, a Sky Lounge, an enlarged Ashcroft Playhouse and a seasonal skating rink will be among the features detailed in the opening seasons program. Fairfield Halls will continue to celebrate the special relationship with Arnhem with the foyer space renamed as the Arnhem Foyer, an aspirational community hub with a programme of events and exhibitions completely free and open to all. These free events will be part-funded by the Sky Lounge, an exclusive priority lounge for theatre goers and a private business hub during the day. Meanwhile the Croydon Recreation (Rec) is Fairfield Halls new 750-standing live music venue. This space will be transformed every December into an indoor ice rink and during the summer will host roller-disco events. Anusha Subramanyam performing at a behind-the-scenes tour of Fairfield Halls
Credit: Vipul Sangoi
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WINTER 2018
Specialists at the council and partner organisations who help rough sleepers are urging residents to highlight those in need this winter. The support offered by Croydon and partners including Crisis and faith groups, both in winter and throughout the year, includes: • E mergency council accommodation for anyone presenting as homeless who is eligible for support • Council-funded Croydon Reach workers verifying rough sleepers and finding solutions • A winter refuge run by Croydon Churches Floating Shelter offering meals and an overnight bed between November and March
• R eferrals into this shelter managed by Croydon Council’s single homelessness service, Croydon Reach, Turning Point and Crisis • Extra beds when temperatures drop below freezing, provided by the council, with support from partners such as Evolve Housing + Support. Council employee Mark Lord, who helps single homeless people find accomodation and previously worked at floating support services, said public referrals help outreach workers build a picture of each rough sleeper’s circumstances and gain their trust. He said: “If you see someone sleeping rough – even if it’s only once – then go to StreetLink’s website, log what you saw, and outreach teams will engage with them to get them off the streets. “At this time of year that will be the floating shelter, but it's also longer-term supported housing. It could be the start of something positive for them.” To refer rough sleepers, contact StreetLink by calling 0300 500 0914, visiting their website or downloading their app on iOS or Android. Rough sleepers can self-refer by calling Croydon Reach on 020 7870 8855 or visiting the CAYSH offices at 2 Whitgift Street, Croydon, CR0 1FL. To help rough sleepers aged under 18, contact the council’s emergency duty team at Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon, CR0 1EA or call the Metropolitan Police. If you’re concerned a rough sleeper needs urgent medical help, dial 999.
New initiative to help rough sleepers into homes A council initiative providing specialist housing for some of the borough’s most vulnerable rough sleepers will begin by March. Croydon Council will work with local housing associations, charities and the voluntary sector to provide one-bedroom flats across the borough and specialist key workers for up to 18 rough sleepers. The project, funded thanks to a successful council bid for a £510,000 Government grant, will initially house 10 people with a history of street homelessness caused by heavy debt, substance misuse, family breakdown, or significant mental and physical health problems. The council has funding to help another eight people in 2019-20. The scheme is based on the principles of Housing First, where vulnerable homeless people must only maintain their tenancy rather than meet more detailed criteria. In return they get to stay in suitable accommodation, receive the help they need and reduce their chances of returning to the streets.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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Council homelessness prevention scheme wins national award A groundbreaking council-led homelessness prevention initiative has won second place at the Guardian Public Service Awards. Croydon Council was named runner-up in the housing category for its Food Stop project, which became the capital’s first joint welfare and food club when it began in October 2017. Launched with around 30 partner organisations under the umbrella name Community Connect, the Food Stop provides around 160 struggling households with a weekly shop for £3.50; a jobs club; cookery courses; and help with household finances, debt management and skills training from Croydon Council’s Gateway service. Since launching for 100 members, so far the scheme based at The Family
Centre in Fieldway has: • prevented 47 rented households from becoming homeless through early intervention • saved members over £22,000 off their combined bills – each gets £20 of food for £3.50 a week • reduced the number of people behind in their rent from 22 to zero • helped 38 people into work or training • supplied 5.3 tonnes of fresh discounted food, including fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy The council’s Gateway service has also begun plans to launch three more
Food Stops in Coulsdon, Monks Hill and Thornton Heath this winter as part of a wider council focus on providing more services across the borough through early help. Gateway works by giving struggling households one-to-one dedicated support, including debt management, benefits advice and help to boost their skills and job prospects. In 2017/2018 alone, the Gateway approach helped more than 2,400 families avoid homelessness, gave budgeting support to more than 14,900 people and improved the digital skills of more than 4,700 people on Universal Credit.
Council in double pledge for tenants’ rights Croydon Council has reintroduced lifetime social tenancies in its own housing stock - and become the first local authority to back a national campaign to ban private landlords from evicting tenants without a reason. As of 9 October, Croydon Council has removed fixed-term social tenancies that are reviewed every five years. Now anyone who signs a new tenancy contract with the council will have an open-ended assured contract, meaning they have a council house for life, as long as they meet the usual tenancy conditions. Croydon will continue to offer incentive schemes so residents who no longer need larger homes can downsize
elsewhere and free the property up for others. Also in October Croydon become the first council to publicly support the #EndUnfairEvictions campaign, joining Generation Rent, the London Renters’ Union, ACORN and the New Economics Foundation. The campaign calls for an end to Section 21 of the 1988 Housing Act, which allows private landlords to carry out no-fault evictions.
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WINTER 2018
£166m approved for Croydon’s Growth Zone The council has approved £166m for the next phase of the Growth Zone programme, which will support the £5.25bn regeneration of Croydon’s town centre through essential improvements to transport and public spaces. The Growth Zone programme is made up of 46 projects totalling an estimated £520m, and funding for the next four years has been agreed as major projects, including the £1.4bn redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre, continue to progress. Transport plans include committing £20m to Transport for
London (TfL)’s Fiveways project; a new and improved West Croydon Station; greater tram network capacity; significant funding for additional bus services and a comprehensive programme of bus priority measures to support access to and from Croydon town centre. There will also be improvements to streets including North End, Poplar Walk, George Street and the Park Lane gyratory. High-quality streetscaping will be delivered as part of the Katharine Street, Park Street and Mint Walk projects to rejuvenate Croydon’s civic centre, creating a new setting for the Town Hall. Growth Zone cultural projects will include Croydon Lit, a lighting plan incorporating a series of temporary and permanent lighting installations and pieces, which will benefit the borough’s night-time economy. It will also include work to develop Croydon’s Music City plan. The council will contribute total of a £309.9m to Growth Zone projects, funded by borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board and will be paid back by business rates. The remaining £210m will be sourced from local partners including TfL, the Greater London Authority (GLA) and funding from section 106 obligations.
New forecasting system helps gritters prepare to hit the road A fleet of 10 gritters is available to treat the 2,329 roads across Croydon, reacting to weather reports to treat routes before temperatures start to drop. Now Croydon Council is using Meteogroup to provide weather updates and forecasts, react to changing situations and proactively monitor the situation in Croydon. Last year Croydon Council used 3,261 tonnes of salt on highways, footpaths and other areas, the equivalent weight of 16 adult blue whales. Preparations are also under way to prevent and mitigate
flooding with extra checking and cleaning of gullies in high risk areas and a store of 4,000 sandbags to be deployed if necessary. Priority routes are often well used, on a bus route, or connect to important locations like schools, hospitals or fire stations. More information on the winter gritting regime, including the locations of the 577 salt bins across the borough, can be found online at www.croydon.gov.uk/gritting
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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CROYDON REMEMBERS âœŚ
Croydon came together for a special church service followed by a parade and wreath-laying ceremony on Remembrance Day, 100 years after the end of the First World War. Civic leaders, members of the armed forces and faith leaders attended the special church service at Croydon Minster on Sunday 11 November. Around 600 members of the armed forces and community groups, scouts and guides and members of the Royal British Legion then paraded along North End to the war memorial outside the Town Hall. Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Bernadette Khan, led a wreath-laying ceremony at the war memorial.
tram derailment remembered two years on More than 100 people gathered in New Addington on 9 November to mark the second anniversary of the 2016 Sandilands tram incident. More than 60 people were injured and seven people lost their lives in the tragedy - Dane Chinnery, Donald Collett, Robert Huxley, Philip Logan, Dorota Rynkiewicz, Philip Seary and Mark Smith. Introduced by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Bernadette Khan, the short ceremony included a performance by the Fairchildes and Meridian school choir of Keane’s Somewhere Only We Know. The choir has now recorded the song as a charity single, with proceeds going towards the Blue Light Programme to help members of the emergency services via the charity Mind. To download a copy, visit: store.cdbaby.com/ thefairchildesmeridianschoolch
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WINTER 2018
Crime, Mental Health And Jobs Top Youth Congress Agenda Crime and safety, mental health, and jobs and opportunities topped the agenda when around 200 young people attended Croydon’s second youth congress. Delegates aged 10-18 represented 25 primary, secondary and special schools; pupil referral units (PRUs) and young people who are home-schooled. Cacfo, Croydon Police Cadets, CDI (Croydon Drop In), Jus ‘T’ Learning, Music Relief, Girl Guides and the Girls’ Brigade also attended the October event.
Young people quizzed senior leaders from the council and police, and youth leaders, on topics from stop and search to mental health, disabilities, bin collections, school buses, hate crime and many more. Information gathered from the young people will now inform the work of the council, the police and their partners in
the coming year. Last year Croydon’s first youth congress saw the launch of the Choose Your Future campaign, encouraging young people to make positive choices and raising awareness around their top priorities - crime and safety, and jobs and opportunities. Since then there has been a 13% decrease in knife crime, the council has had conversations with more than 3,000 young people, and more than 40 young ambassadors and 100 organisations have given it their backing.
Choose
your
future
Choose Your Future will continue to support young people and the priorities they have identified this year. Youth Congress 2018 was jointly hosted by Anthony King and local poet and spoken word artist Shaniqua Benjamin, with performances from The BRIT School and Norbury Manor Business and Enterprise College.
NEW YOUTH ZONE RECRUITS VOLUNTEERS Legacy, Croydon's new state-of-the-art OnSide Youth Zone, is preparing to recruit 100 volunteers ahead of its opening next summer. All the latest vacancies, from club leads to session coordinators, can be found at www.legacyyouthzone.org Meanwhile the development continues to take shape down on Whitehorse Road in Selhurst. The steel frame of the building has been completed and external cladding and roof coverings are being added to form a water-tight envelope. Croydon rap sensation Michael Dapaah recently visited the site and was delighted with what he saw. Legacy will open next summer with activities and facilities including sports (four-court sports hall, gym, martial arts room, 3G kick pitch), music room with recording suite, arts room, drama, dance, cookery, enterprise and employability opportunities and much more. Visits will cost just 50p.
If you have any questions about the Youth Zone, including its offer and job opportunities, email enquiries@legacyyouthzone.org
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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Young people in care shine bright at STAR Awards Croydon Council celebrated the achievements of children and young people in care and careleavers at the borough’s first STAR Awards. More than 90 inspirational nominees aged 8-24 won awards across 13 categories, ranging from academic achievement to star sibling, sports star, inspiring others, personal journey and many more. The event at the Hilton, Waddon Way on 24 October was co-hosted by local care-leavers Ashleigh Searle and Queenie Chizea with special guest writer and broadcaster Lemn Sissay MBE, also a care-leaver. Every nominee was invited, and the foster carers, teachers, social workers and members of the public who nominated them. All were winners, and presented with a certificate and a trophy. Lemn said: “There is an amazing nature that lives inside every person who has been fostered, or adopted or lived in children’s home, because we have experienced something that most people cannot relate to. Young people in care are
©Katherine Leedale – STAR award-winners
incredible and they need to be told that.” Host Ashleigh said: “The STAR awards are important because they recognise our achievements but also bring us together as young people who have a shared experience.”
Last year Croydon Council re-launched its children in care council, giving children and young people in care the opportunity to shape the services they receive, and published its ‘local offer’ setting out how it will support care-leavers.
Mentoring helps teens turn their lives around A Croydon-based charity has mentored over 165 of the borough’s most vulnerable young people over the last eight years, helping to significantly reduce re-offending rates. Ment4 works alongside the council and champions the goals of its Choose Your Future campaign, supporting young people to make positive choices. The charity has helped to reduce re-offending from the national and local average of over 40% to 13% (locally) for the last three years*. Mentors work with teenagers with emotional and behavioural difficulties, at risk of being excluded from school, going missing and vulnerable to exploitation and crime. Director Peter Stanley said: “One of our mottos is that ‘mentoring is like panning for gold.’ We help young people change their focus from the mess they are in to the gold that lies beneath. Other young people have also made positive choices, from joining clubs, to getting jobs and going to university.”
Troubled teen Gary’s parents were drug addicts and he was placed in care at age 6, where he couldn’t use a knife, fork or plate, as he had only ever eaten from packets. Unable to read or write, he became an angry 13-year-old. The care home supported him, but his fury increased. The Ment4 mentor talked to Gary while kicking a ball around a park. Their relationship progressed. Months later Gary started to talk about nuclear physics. The mentor helped Gary enrol in a special needs school and supported his grandmother to house him during holidays. The path was still rocky, but Gary did well in his studies and they are still in touch. Ment4’s referrals come from Croydon
youth offending service, children’s social care, schools, pupil referral units and directly from families. Mentors build close relationships with the young people, monitoring positive behaviour change, family relationships and educational attendance. Each young person receives an average of 100 hours of direct contact time, tailored to their needs, over five months. This can include sports, song writing, cookery and conversations, with the aim of building trust through listening and achieving goals. To find out more contact Peter on 07752817882 - www.ment4.org. *Figures from the Youth Justice Board report 2018.
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“Fostering is a marathon, not a sprint… but to be there at the finish is very rewarding.” Rowan and Laura Hall live in Shirley with their 10 year-old daughter, and their foster daughter, Latia, 17, who came to them four years ago as their first foster placement. Latia had experienced a lot of upheaval in her young life and the early days were not without their challenges. Rowan said: “Latia had been through lots of foster homes. She wasn’t really interested in education and used to play truant from school.” However, by offering consistent care combined with firm boundaries in a warm and supportive home, Rowan and Laura have been able to bring unprecedented stability to their fosterdaughter's life. Laura, Latia and Rowan Latia has now been with them for four years and is planning to stay with them longer, under the ‘staying put’ initiative, “She hasn’t missed a day or been late once. Already it which helps young people to stay with foster carers into early feels like this is the right career path for her and it is really adulthood rather than go into independent accommodation. satisfying to see her settled in a job. And for Rowan it has been incredibly satisfying to watch “She’s also coming to terms with the real world in other her emerge as a confident, capable and mature young adult, ways - teaching life skills is an important part of fostering, of whom he and Laura are both rightly proud. and she is doing all sorts of things for herself now. Focusing on her interests and skills, they have supported “She cooks, she takes care of herself – she has grown up. Latia into a career path of her choice, and while it is early He added: “She’s still a ‘normal’ teenager of course - she days, her commitment and enthusiasm mean she is already on tries to push the boundaries, and doesn’t want to clean up her the road to success. own room – but she’s doing really well. He said: “We realised that she did not want to stay in “I would most definitely recommend fostering to anyone. It school long-term and it would be best to help her get into a is challenging and you won’t always feel that you are winning field that she was interested in, so we helped her to find an the battle – it’s definitely a marathon not a sprint! But if you apprenticeship with a nursery. are there for the finish, the result is very rewarding.”
Leading children’s charity to promote fostering in Croydon Leading children’s charity Coram is working with the council to recruit foster carers who can provide children and young people with safe, secure and loving homes. Croydon Council looks after nearly 800 children and young people – more than any other London borough and the 17th highest number in the UK – with more than 600 children in foster placements. Over the next two years Coram will recruit carers for Croydon and also, help the council to set up its own recruitment service for the future.
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning, said: “We’re fortunate to have hundreds of excellent foster carers offering homes to children and young people, making an incredible difference to their lives every day. “We want to meet demand for foster carers now and in years to come, and to ensure that all our children and young people are offered the very best quality care.” Foster carers are offered extensive training and support through the council’s foster care team, and an allowance. For more information visit www.croydon.gov.uk/fostering
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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Croydon residents get first dibs on new homes New homes are launching for sale that are only available to Croydon residents – for a limited time only. The first new homes from Brick by Brick, the development company established by Croydon Council, will be available across several sites in Upper Norwood, close to the shops, parks and transport links of Crystal Palace. The first units are a selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and family houses, designed by award-winning architects HTA. Modern in style, the homes benefit from Brick by Brick’s highquality construction and interior specification. The homes include shared ownership units, also known as 'part buy, part rent', which allows the purchaser to buy a share of a property and pay rent on the rest. It's designed to help people with small deposits and lower incomes get on the property ladder. The remainder are private units for sale, available with Help to Buy, where purchasers put down as little as 5% deposit on a newly-built home, and get access to a fee-free government loan for up to 40% of the purchase price. More information on this scheme is available at www.helptobuy.gov.uk If you are a Croydon resident, you can register your interest at www.bxbdevelopment.com - or you can call the Brick by Brick sales team on 020 7539 3745. Site viewings can be booked from mid December 2018. Brick by Brick’s new sales suite, at 62 George Street in central Croydon, will be open in early 2019 and will include a mock-up of an apartment with their interior fit-out. Sales assistants will be on hand to talk through the range of Brick by Brick homes which will become available over time.
£61m grant to build council homes Croydon Council has welcomed a major grant from the Mayor of London’s new council homebuilding programme. The council has received £61m from City Hall’s £1bn ‘Building Council Homes for Londoners’ programme, which is dedicated to building more than 11,000 new council homes. The grant funding awarded to Croydon will provide 888 affordable housing units.
Croydon is already building council homes in the borough. Council-established developers Brick by Brick (BxB) currently have planning consent on around 40 sites, which will provide 1,036 new homes, of which 498 (48%), will be affordable. Croydon Affordable Homes will be letting homes on the sites.
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CIVIC AWARDS RECOGNISE CRO
Unsung heroes from across the community were recognised at a glittering awards ceremony organised by the council in October.
WINNERS
The annual Mayor of Croydon Civic Awards, at the Hilton Hotel, Croydon, celebrated those who go the extra mile to help others and make their borough a better place. There were smiles, cheers, and tears of happiness as 11 winners were announced from the 29 nominees who were all invited to the event. Mayor of Croydon councillor Bernadette Khan, said: “We have many special people who selflessly devote their time to making this borough a better place. They are all heroes and we celebrate them as individuals and organisations who only want to improve things for others. They manifest the very best of Croydon.” The evening was hosted by local resident and compere Anthony King, with councillor Hamida Ali, cabinet member for safer Croydon & communities. There was entertainment from the Croydonbased London Mozart Players (LMP); dance group Company of Dreams who work with women recovering from trauma; and the Jam Bus Djembe Kings, from Ecclestone Primary School, who rehearse on a bus paid for by singing sensation Ed Sheeran. Council employee and DJ Julie Brickley from Club Soda, an organisation led by people with learning disabilities, closed the night. Organised by Croydon Council, the event was made possible thanks to sponsors Mulalley, Axis, Brick by Brick, Croydon Partnership and Hilton.
Clive selflessly set up Croydon FM, attracting local DJs, presenters and aspiring producers from all walks of life. Committed to creating opportunities for the community, the project helps local people take first steps in an industry which is not easily accessible, and also gives potentially at-risk youths a creative outlet.
Business in the Community: Clive Campbell
Contribution to Sport and Healthy Living: Cre8 Football Cre8 Football is dedicated to giving children in Croydon the opportunity to develop new skills - regardless of social standing, gender or race. Affordable to all, sessions are extremely popular, with one attended by over 90 children each week. They provide young people with
an outlet for their energy and positive influences.
Don’t Mess With Croydon – Take Pride: Graham Mitchell Graham’s determination to keep Thornton Heath clean and green inspires others. He acted as liaison between the council and residents during their Don't Mess campaign and raised the profile of clean and green locally, personally delivering 5,000 leaflets. Graham also organises regular clear-ups of Norbury Brook and Thornton Heath Rec.
Fairer Croydon: Croydon Independent Visitors – Volunteer Group This group is comprised of 65 volunteers aged between 18 and 80 - each supporting a child or teenager in foster care. The volunteers become a friend, and a stable
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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OYDON’S COMMUNITY HEROES
and positive influence during a difficult time in their lives. These relationships change lives – reducing some of the disadvantages for children in the care system.
Good Neighbour: Marley King Marley is a street champion and was involved in the installation of play equipment near her block of flats and arranging a community picnic, which encouraged the elderly to socialise with neighbours. She is organising a coffee morning and is involved in a regeneration project - great community work to combat isolation.
Outstanding Contribution to Foster Care: Christine Austin Christine has been fostering for over 31 years. Her kind heart and wisdom has helped children develop better attitudes, supported them through grieving and other tough times, and prepared them for future lives. She is passionate about making sure every child gets the best care and achieves all they can.
Stronger Together: South Norwood Community Kitchen The kitchen supports those in need, with food, company, support and laughter for all. After just a year it attracts 30-40 people a week who come together to share food. For some, this is their only chance to chat to others, have a nutritious meal and enjoy a positive community experience.
Young Achiever of the Year: Sophia Abby Yosef Moreau Sophia, 23, is an activist, campaigner, mother and carer. She has worked as an equality and diversity advocate at Croydon College, a researcher for Croydon Community Against Trafficking (CCAT), has lobbied parliament for student maternity rights and is launching a Croydon branch of Sisters Uncut.
Volunteer of the Year: Patricia Goonetilleke Patricia has dedicated the last 21 years to volunteer at Croydon University Hospital, tirelessly helping thousands of people
in any way she can. Her commitment to the hospital, staff and patients is unwavering as she supports patients who need help, comfort and company - often those who are seriously ill with no visiting family.
Voluntary Group of the Year: The Lions Society This small group of volunteers raises awareness of, and brings solutions to, knife crime in and around Croydon. They have made a difference to many young people’s lives - particularly young males who have been misguided – through mentoring, outreach work and organising a community peace cup event attended by over 200 people.
The Mayor’s Lifetime Contribution Award: Kim Bennett The winner of the Mayor’s Lifetime Contribution Award, Kim Bennett, received the accolade for dedicating nearly two decades to CDI (Croydon Drop In), a charity that helps young people who need safe, flexible support and counselling.
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WINTER 2018
Keep warm and keep well this winter Winter weather and snow can be fun but the cold weather, combined with fewer hours of sunlight, can make some of us feel poorly. Here are a few top tips to help you stay in the best health when it’s cold outside: Keep warm - Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F). Keep your bedroom window closed at night as breathing in cold air can increase the risk of chest infections. Get financial support – Grants, benefits and advice are available to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. Look after yourself – Get your free flu vaccination check if you are eligible at www.nhs.uk/flu Treat colds and sore throats quickly. Wrap up warm and wear shoes with a good grip. When indoors, get up regularly, stretch your legs and make yourself a warm drink. Check on others – Look out for older neighbours or relatives. Make sure they’re warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines. Get more winter wellness advice at www.nhs.uk/staywell
Do you qualify for free food and vitamin vouchers? Families in Croydon are being encouraged to apply for Healthy Start vouchers for free food and vitamins. Pregnant women and families who receive certain benefits, and have a child or children under the age of four, can use the food vouchers for fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables, and fresh or formula milk. The free vitamins are specifically designed for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and growing children, to boost their immune system and aid healthy development. The vitamins are available in exchange for vouchers from children’s centres and some health centres. Benefits for those who qualify include: • A pregnant woman is entitled to food vouchers worth £3.10 per week from
when they are 10 weeks pregnant and free vitamin tablets. • Pregnant women under the age of 18 are entitled to Healthy Start vouchers - whether they are on benefits or not. • Families with a baby under one receive two food vouchers per week worth £6.20. • Those with a child or children between one and four, can get one £3.10 voucher per child per week. Pregnant women with a child under one and another under four could receive an extra £12.30 per week. • Children between six months and four years are also entitled to free vitamin drops.
Parents need to apply to receive the vouchers and vitamins. Application forms and information are available online, from health visitors, children’s centres, the Job Centre and Access Croydon on Mint Walk. Check if you qualify on the Healthy Start website www.healthystart.nhs. uk/do-i-qualify For more information, visit www.croydon.gov.uk/beststart or email - healthystart@croydon.gov.uk
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
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Follow top British athletes and represent Croydon in the London Youth Games There is still time to sign up to follow some of Britain’s most famous athletes by representing Croydon at the London Youth Games. The games, which are Europe’s largest youth sports festival, involve young people from across all 33 London boroughs competing against each other in more than 30 different events, including eight Paralympic sports. Croydon, who last won the games in 2012, have so far competed in cross country, the first event of the 2018 games, and are in 14th place overall. And there is still time to be involved, with events taking place across London over the next eight months, culminating with a festival of sport at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre next July. Olympic legend Sir Mo Farah represented his own borough in the
Luol Deng © Keith Allison London Youth Games and Croydon athletes taking part in the games have also gone on to big things. Two-time NBA All-Star Luol Deng, represented Croydon in basketball as a youngster, as did Olympic gold medallist Tasha Danvers.
The games are open to all young people aged between seven and 18 who either live or study in Croydon. To be a part of Team Croydon, young sportsmen and women are asked to register their interest online at www.croydon.gov.uk/lyg
New year, new you - kick-start 2019 with positive intentions The joys of Christmas will soon be with us and after indulging in those festive treats, many residents will begin thinking about healthier habits for the New Year. The JustBe Croydon health website for residents can motivate you to tackle those common challenges at the start of the year like losing weight, eating better, stopping smoking and drinking less alcohol. You can get started by taking a short health MOT at www.JustBeCroydon. org/health-checker and get a personalised report to help improve your lifestyle throughout the months ahead. Croydon Live Well advisors based at health hubs around the borough are also available to support you to meet your goals.
The advisors motived Croydon resident Josephine Andrews to quit smoking. Josephine (left) wanted to give up for her own health and to benefit her family. The Live Well advisors set SMART goals with her, which included setting a quit date for her to work towards, and helped her to select appropriate smoking cessation medication.
They also gave Josephine information to read that would aid her quitting journey and helped her to tackle obstacles she may encounter that could stop her achieving her goal. Josephine is now smoke-free. Her breathing is better as well as her taste and smell. Josephine said: “It’s best to remain positive. “You will save a lot of money, your house will smell nice - and your house paint will stay the same colour.” Find out how Croydon’s Live Well advisors can help you at www. justbecroydon.org/just-live-well
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WINTER 2018
STAY SAFE OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON While many shift their focus to celebrations at this time of year, emergency services are often busier than ever. Do what you can to stay safe and enjoy the holiday season. Our BeSafe campaign highlights simple things you can do to keep your home secure and safe from burglaries. Visit www.met.police.uk, search #BeSafe on Twitter or contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team at www.met. police.uk/a/your-area Christmas can be particularly difficult for some, and we take allegations of domestic abuse very seriously, whatever the time of year, working with our partners and communities to safeguard victims, and bring perpetrators to justice. All Croydon’s frontline officers now get additional specialist training in domestic abuse, and our investigators work closely with independent domestic
violence advisors (IDVA’s) and specialist support agencies. If you are in an abusive relationship or concerned about someone else, contact us on 101 at any time. Visit www.met.police.uk for information, and links to other agencies should you wish to seek help from another source. I’d like to encourage you to help us spread some festive cheer to children in need through the Met’s Christmas Tree Appeal. Gifts will be given to children, currently being cared for by foster parents, in residential care homes, in refuges, in hospitals, or from low-income families, and delivered before Christmas Day. Find out more or donate online at www.met.police.uk/
Croydon shortlisted for tackling hate crime
christmastree. Finally, we have had a really busy year across London and though I’m pleased that in Croydon we have seen progress, I know that 2019 will bring just as many challenges. Our commitment to making London the safest city has not wavered and we hope with your support next year we will be even closer to that reality. I wish you a safe festive period and a Happy New Year.
Jeff Boothe
Chief Supt Jeff Boothe South BCU Commander for Croydon, Sutton and Bromley
Beverly Walker with Trevor Ashby, chair of the Shrublands Trust
The Safer Croydon Partnership (SCP) was shortlisted for an award for its work to tackle hate crime and antisocial behaviour on a housing estate. Croydon was a finalist for this year’s Problem Orientated Partnership Award, which credits good work between the police and communities. The awards are run by the Metropolitan Police, Transport for London (TfL) and the Mayor of London. The nomination followed the attack on Kurdish Iranian Reker Ahmed on the Shrublands Estate in Shirley last year, which left him fighting for his life. Residents condemned this crime and worked with police, council teams, businesses and local groups to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour. Beverley Walker manages the Shrublands Trust, which runs the Shrublands Advice and Coffee Shop, providing computer lessons, a craft club and food bank. She said: “I knew a lot of the young men that were getting into trouble, and wanted to help turn things around.” A zero-tolerance approach led to arrests for crimes including robbery, handling stolen goods, shoplifting and disorder. Trespass notices barred offenders from the estate.
The task force monitored noise levels; carried out regular weapons sweeps; deployed CCTV cameras; and clamped down on vehicle crime and drink-driving. The police met weekly with residents at the coffee shop, deterring youths from congregating and increasing trust with the community. Council teams and Croydon Works staff supported vulnerable young people. The number of concerns reported has dropped by more than 70%, and residents say young people no longer congregate and intimidate people. Beverley said: “The work that’s been done has had a positive effect on where we live, but we still need to build better community relations and to have more activities for the old and young to get involved with.”
For up-to-the-minute council news visit news.croydon.gov.uk
Council meeting dates Full council meetings start at 6.30pm and are held in the council chamber of Croydon Town Hall, Katharine Street, Croydon CR0 1NX. Meeting: Monday 28 January Deadline: Monday 21 January Meeting: Monday 4 March
Deadline: Monday 26 February
Questions (maximum number of words: 50) for consideration at a full council meeting, can be emailed to democratic. services@croydon.gov.uk; alternatively, write to Questions for the council, Democratic services, 7C Bernard Weatherill House, 8 Mint Walk, Croydon CR0 1EA. Unless otherwise stated, cabinet meetings start at 6.30pm, in the council chamber of the Town Hall. Meeting: 10 December, 21 January, 25 February For information on meetings, minutes and agendas, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings For information on cabinet and shadow cabinet members, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/cabinet Unless otherwise stated, scrutiny meetings start at 6.30pm, in the council chamber of the Town Hall. Meeting: Tuesday 11 December, Tuesday 15 January For information on scrutiny, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/scrutiny or email democratic.services@croydon.gov.uk Meetings of the Safer Neighbourhood Board are held in the venues indicated. For further information, look www.croydononline.org/ safer-neighbourhood-board The next public meetings: Meeting: Wednesday 13 March at 6.30pm Venue: Town Hall, council chamber Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found at www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings
Guided Walks The days may be colder but there’s still a great range of parks and open spaces for you to enjoy across the borough. You can make the most of the borough’s green spaces whenever you want but for a guide through local wild walks or to learn new skills, head along to one of these events.
DECEMBER Sunday 16 Bark, buds and bushes – Happy Valley and Farthing Downs Take a break from the festive preparations and Christmas shopping. Wrap up warm and discover the myths and folklore behind the trees and shrubs and learn how to identify them from their bark and twigs.
Useful contacts For police, fire brigade, ambulance, call: 999 or 112, Text phone 1800
Croydon Council general enquiries 020 8726 6000 Croydon NHS Walk-in Centre 020 3040 0800 Non-emergency urgent care - 111 Croydon University Hospital 020 8401 3000
Get in touch To get in touch with the Your Croydon editorial team, email: yourcroydon@croydon.gov.uk If anybody you know isn't receiving the online Your Croydon weekly, tell them that they can ensure delivery by subscribing at www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe
Central Library and Museum of Croydon Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET Open: Monday to Saturday (see website for daily hours) Library – www.croydon.gov.uk/ Museum – www. central-library museumofcroydon.com Telephone: 020 8726 6900 Telephone: 020 8253 1022 Email: libraries@croydon.gov.uk Email: museum@croydon.gov.uk
For full details, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/ leisure/parksandopenspaces/walks
Meet at the Farthing Downs car park at 2pm using either the 60 or 404 bus or walk one mile up Downs Road and Ditches Lane from Coulsdon South train station.
Meet at the Farthing Downs car park at 11am either using the 60 or 404 bus or walk one mile up Downs Road and Ditches Lane from Coulsdon South train station.
JANUARY
Saturday 26 A winter tree identification walk – Spa Woods
Sunday 20 Winter wander – Happy Valley and Chaldon Winter Ramble Put on your thickest jumper and explore the beautiful countryside around Happy Valley and Chaldon. Learn about the Chaldon labyrinths, the Pilgrim’s Way and the Chaldon Doom mural. This is a longer walk lasting three to four hours covering seven miles. Dogs on leads are welcome.
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Take a tour of the woodland and learn about the once Great North Wood and the trees that made it. The walk is suitable for families. Email sbtoon@wildlondn.org.uk for more details. Meet at the pole gate and lectern off Spa Hill London Wildlife Trust at 2pm.
FEBRUARY Saturday 16 Veteran trees – Littleheath Woods Join the Friends of Littleheath Woods as they visit, assess and measure the veteran trees. 10 years on from the first visit, the group will check to see if the trees are still strong and healthy. Meet at 10am at the junction of Queenhill Road and Littleheath Road. You can catch the 433 or 64 bus to Queenhill Road.
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