Team White City Fanzine - November 2013 by Hammersmith & Fulham Council

GAME IS UP!

USA rapper The Game lands at the O2 Empire PAGES 38&39>>

WANT A JORB? NEW DOO SUPERVISOR COURSES ON OFFER! See page 12

fanzine @teamwhitecity teamwhitecity teamwhitecity @lbhf.gov.uk

NOVEMBER 2013

INSIDE

We can’t stand the rain – but the White City See pages Festival parties on! 20-21>>

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SUCCESS! eld, Find out about Christmas jobs at Westfi how to save cash by getting online and more!

teenager with big ambitions wants to help local people realise what they can get out of volunteering – starting with an open day in White City on November 14. A-level student Nawaal Abdalla (pictured) volunteered to help Team White City while pursuing her long-term goal to become an engineer. The 17-year-old is joining our push to connect local people with jobs, training opportunities and support in the run-up to Christmas. Nawaal is encouraging everyone to visit the White City Community Centre in India Way on November 14, from 2pm to 4pm, when experts from H&F Volunteer Centre will be on hand for a chat. She said: “There’s nothing to lose. You can only gain.”

STORY CONTINUES ON PAGES 2-3

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

TEAM WHITE CITY INDEX l XMAS JOBS It’s the gift that keeps on giving...........Page 7 l SILVER SCREEN Tales of White City premiere.........Pages 8-9 l FESTIVAL White City fun beats the rain......Pages 20-21 l GREEN CLEAN Japanese park gets a good scrub......Page 29 l BUZZWORDS Poet Le Hornet steps up to page..Pages 36-37

SEASON FOR Local resident Sharon White says volunteering has given her confidence a boost

ABOUT US! l Everyone who lives in White City is a team member. We all have a role to play and responsibilities to our neighbours. Team White City is about creating a much better partnership between local people and your public services, including the council, police, health and employment support. This is your neighbourhood and together we can make it even better, making the most of all the opportunities that exist and creating new ones. Join the team by following us on Twitter @teamwhitecity, looking us up on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ teamwhitecity or by emailing: teamwhitecity@lbhf. gov.uk to sign up for our regular e-newsletter. The Team White City fanzine is produce in association with White City Neighbourhood Forum and is supported by: l For more details or to get involved in the Team White City fanzine email: teamwhitecity @lbhf.gov.uk or call Dan Hodges on 020 8753 2127

Mum’s confidence given a boost after volunteering to befriend older people

mum who finds time is encouraging people to find to help out at a charity out what they can get from supporting older people volunteering at the dropis joining the call for others to in-session in White City on think about how they can get November 14. ahead as a volunteer. Sharon said: “I get a lot out it. Qualified chef Sharon It can be frustrating, but most White, 44, now looks after her of the time it’s very rewarding three-year-old in Shepherds and you feel like you’ve done Bush almost full-time – but your bit. I spend a couple is still able to volunteer as of hours chatting and a befriender at Age UK just checking that when her daughter is everything is OK. in nursery. “Everybody is good ’S N O R TRY SHA Y She says acting at something, and IT WHITE C K as a befriender has volunteering to do O O B K O O C given here a boost something you’re good E! IP EC R after a period of at can really build your See page 25 unemployment, and confidence.”

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

SUCCESS! Nawaal Abdalla proudly shows off her BTEC results at Hammersmith Academy

Story continued from front page

Nawaal volunteered to help Team White City by putting up posters around the community and sporting a high visibility vest for the Big Clean Up campaign. The Hammersmith Academy pupil also signed up for a training course at IT firm Agilysis to help prepare her for the world of work, held over the summer holidays. “I really enjoyed it – I’ve made new friends, got a qualification which will look great on my CV, and I’ve gained loads of experience of the world of work,” she said. Nawaal was awarded a BTEC level 1 certificate in work skills, and doing the course helped to cement her confidence in her own future. She is now set to start a week’s work experience at an engineering firm, which she hopes will the next step on the road to a career as an engineer. Encouraging others to take the plunge, she said: “By volunteering or training you won’t feel like you’re wasting your time, because there’s nothing more productive that you could be doing.”

Dan Hodges

Editor Team White City Fanzine

t may be a bit early to start dusting off the tinsel, but Christmas is just round the corner and now is a great time of year to think about new opportunities. In this edition we’ve focused on how you can sharpen your skills and give your own prospects a boost in several different ways. You could earn money by working at Westfield London over the festive period, with a wide range of jobs on offer through Work Zone. You could get help finding your way online, learning how to use the internet to pay bills, manage accounts and save money by using a smart phone, tablet or computer. And you could You can learn what get help volunteering finding can offer you your way at an open online session on and HOW November 14, to savE from 2pm to money 4pm at the White City Community Centre, when experts will be on hand to explain how giving up your own time can help you get ahead. As well as all that we have full coverage of the White City Festival, the premiere of the stunning new film Tales of the White City, l Team White City and Hammersmith & Fulha an attention-grabbing m Volunteer Centre will crime roadshow at host a relaxed drop-in Phoenix High School, session at the White plus a lot more. City Community Centre The Team White in India Way, W12 7QT, City fanzine is from 2pm to 4pm on produced through November 14. the communications By volunteering you can boost your skills department at H&F and confidence while Council. making a difference in We hope you enjoy the community, and it it and we would love can often lead to paid to hear your ideas and work. Come along to find feedback for future out what becoming a editions – please volunteer can offer you . email: teamwhitecity@ lbhf.gov.uk and tell us what you think.

‘‘

Be trained to help others get online as a Team White City computer mentor.

Do you live in W12 and have free time to spare? Do you know about computers, smart phones and the internet? Would you like to help others find their way online? One adult in every five does not know how to get online or do simple tasks on a computer, like searching for information or sending an email. Team White City is looking for people with up-to-date IT skills to train as mentors so they can help others learn the benefits of getting online. As a mentor you could teach people how to pay bills over the internet, shop online and use services without leaving home saving money at the same time. Being a mentor will look great on your CV. You will be given full training leading to a qualification, plus the free use of a laptop while you are involved with the project. Find out more today. Email teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk or call 020 8753 1363

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

MY WHITE CITY q Do

YOU want to be interviewed? Or would you like to sign up to become a Team White City reporter? WRITE TO US AT: teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk

W12

How long have you lived or worked in the area? My husband has lived here for three years and I moved in after we got married two years ago. Can you describe your typical day? I feel very lucky to work just up the road. I cycle up the Westway after breakfast to North Acton, where I alter lingerie and swimwear. One night a week I can usually be found in the Springbok pub, and on Wednesdays I volunteer with a charity called Rahab, visiting girls working in the sex industry. Weekends are spent sorting the house out, food shopping and getting together with friends at church. What are the best things about being here? Definitely the people – it’s such a friendly community.

When she’s not busy working as a seamstress, 28-year-old Lucy Mullaly helps stitch together community through monthly gettogethers with friends and neighbours

What would you most like to change about the area? There are great resources for kids but not much for the older generation. A few elderly neighbours live alone and it’d be great if there were more places for them to meet. It’s also a shame that the green space on the estate isn’t widely used – it’d be great to have community picnics, barbecues or even allotments. How do you see White City 10 years from now? I think it will continue to improve because the locals are so passionate about the place. The youth are so creative and talented . And the White City Festival will hopefully be even bigger and better. What are your personal hopes for the future? We’re expecting our first baby next year so life is about to change quite dramatically. We hope to remain on the estate, know our neighbours more and get stuck in with exciting community projects. James and I are both creative so we’d love to explore new ways of using our skills – I’d love to teach others how to sew.

Call 020 8753 4691, visit www.workzoneonline.co.uk or pop in for a chat: 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF Find us on the first floor above Shepherds Bush Library, access is through the library

Work Zone

Work Zone supports over 300 local people into work every year CURRENT JOB VACANCIES INCLUDE: Sales: Buckle Shop P/T Sales: Jack Wolfskin Hospitality Apprenticeships Supervisor: Craftholic F/T & P/T Sales: Silvermine Sales Assistant: Rituals

CHRISTMAS STAFF: Many more stores are recruiting Christmas and permanent staff – ask the Work Zone team about the latest opportunities.

XMAS JOBS AVAILABLE NOW! Call 020 8753 4691

GET AHEAD WITH PRE-EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT: – CV support – Application form support – Interview preparation – Mock interviews – Job search – Training advice – Voluntary work

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

Christmas jobs

WRAPPED UP Dozens of opportunities for local people at Westfield in run up to Xmas

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he race is on to ÂżOO PRUH WKDQ VHDVRQDO jobs and dozens of apprenticeships at :HVWÂżHOG /RQGRQ LQ WKH UXQ XS WR &KULVWPDV Advisers from Work Zone have been working closely with store managers and the shopping centre team to identify opportunities which can be taken up by local people - and you could be one of them. As many as 60 shortterm vacancies are on offer at Debenhams department store, with duties ranging from sales and admin to visual merchandising. More temporary positions are available at stores including Clinton Cards, The Entertainer and Jo Malone, including sales, cleaning and night work to restock the shelves. Permanent jobs are also up for grabs at The Buckle Shop, Clinton Cards, TM Lewin, Pango, Rituals and Sports Direct. And if you are aged 16 to 23, you could be taken on for one of more than 40 apprenticeships now available throughout the centre, giving you the chance to be paid and given training at the same time. More jobs and apprenticeship opportunities are expected to follow as more shops sign up to take on local candidates who are found and supported by staff at Work Zone, based at Shepherds Bush Library in Wood Lane. Ninar Farhat, Work Zoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recruitment and training adviser, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is lots of work DYDLODEOH QRZ DW :HVWÂżHOG and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already helped place dozens of local people in jobs and apprenticeships. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to make sure local jobseekers have the support they need to make the most of the opportunities on our doorstep, over the festive period and beyond.â&#x20AC;?

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

TALES OF WHITE CITY

From top, John Seesahai in Tales From White City; Danny Hibbert at the premiere; kids from three W12 schools; and Mostafa Ragab

Rapturous reception for premiere of BBC film in which local people sing their own life stories. Dan Hodges saw the curtain rise

From top, Imhotep Oyortey and Yusuf Ibrahim; H&F mayor Frances Stainton and producer Penny Wright; and John Seesahai

t takes courage to open up to strangers about your own life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; let alone sing about it in front of a TV camera. But the people of White City were brave enough to trust in the producers of a new musical film, throwing themselves heart and soul into the project. Commissioned by BBC

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

The cast of Tales of White City at the BBC Outreach premiere

Outreach to celebrate an area where BBC staff have worked for more than half a century, Tales of the White City is a moving and honest account of life in our neighbourhood, as told by the people who live here. It features a series of performances from local characters, who were interviewed about their lives before having their own words set to music by the composer and director, Benjamin Till. The stars of the show and community leaders all gathered at Phoenix High School in September for the film’s glittering premiere.

Diane Reid, Head of BBC Outreach said: “This film is a tribute from the BBC to a strong and exciting community, based on our doorstep. “It is beautiful to watch and a joy to hear. It’s made rich by the generosity of the people of the White City Estate in sharing their lives with each other and with the filmmakers.” More than 500 local people were involved in the film, which features lead performances from 11 local characters. Harry Audley, chairman of the White City Residents’ Assoication, said: “BBC Outreach has helped to shine

a light on White City’s many challenges, alongside the real hope and resilience our community shares.”

l Watch the film today! Visit: youtube.com/teamwhitecity and click on Favourite Videos to watch Tales of the White City online

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

CROSSING LANGUAGE BARRIERS By pushing herself to improve her English, Italianborn Romina Melis has blossomed in confidence and is making great progress as an apprentice:

was born in Italy and have lived in W12 for two years. In Italy I was working as a surveyor but when I arrived in London my English wasn’t good enough, so I worked for two years as a waitress and bartender, attending ESOL courses at the same time. Before being taken on as an apprentice I was unemployed for a year. I kept myself busy volunteering for the Citizens Advice Bureau and an employment agency called Tendis, and also attending as many courses as I could. Volunteering at those organisations was challenging, but it definitely helped my English skills and motivated me to move forward. One of the courses that the Jobcentre offered me

was in business administration, Improving my English has so I started to think about a been hard, but using it every future in this field. I applied for day when speaking to clients an apprenticeship with H&F and colleagues has made me Council and gained a work more comfortable and built placement in the health and my confidence. safety team of the housing and I now feel I am an equal, regeneration department. and my colleagues are great. This is my first experience in They are always there to the public sector, and since I answer any questions for me started I have learned so many – and I have a lot. things, such as new software The work I have done has and online systems. I’ve also been very interesting, and my learned a lot about the borough. colleagues have treated me When I started my professionally. Among many apprenticeship, I was quite other things I have had the ambitious about improving my chance to arrange and English – I set myself tough organise courses, which targets and was eager to learn is a huge responsibility, fast. At first I struggled with and I have loved every things like the acronyms people bit of it. This has been use at work, and all the different a great experience accents of my colleagues, and I feel ready but gradually they became to apply for more familiar. permanent jobs.

“Improving my English has been hard, but using it every day when speaking to clients and colleagues has made me more comfortable and built my confidence”

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

Romina Melis, who was taken on as a council apprentice after working as a volunteer

For more on local English classes for speakers of other languages, see page 31. To find out about apprenticeships and work experience opportunities, call Clare Edgson on 020 8753 4053 or email: clare.edgson@lbhf.gov.uk

Hammersmith & Fulham

Enterprise Club H&F Enterprise Club has been developed to assist people who are interested in becoming self-employed or would like to start or have already started a small/ micro business in the borough. If you are enthusiastic and passionate about starting a small business, H&F Enterprise Club is the place to network and get some useful information to help you set up or run your own business. Monthly topics cover a variety of business planning areas from finance to product development. EACH MONTHLY SESSION INCLUDES:

O A presentation from a business/industry specialist O A seminar session facilitated by a local business sharing their experiences

Enterprise Clubs are FREE, and usually take place on a Wednesday (monthly) at Macbeth Centre, Macbeth Street, Hammersmith, 6.00-8.00pm.

O The opportunity to meet and network with other entrepreneurs just like you!

To join, please contact the H&F business support desk to get on our mailing list and book your place

Free event

Email business-support @lbhf.gov.uk or call 020 8753 5585

Adult learning and skills service

DOOR SUPERVISION SKILLS This course will provide learners with concrete knowledge and understanding of the security industry. It allows learners to choose security guarding, door supervision or CCTV operations. In addition, it develops learnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; broad transferable skills such as customer service and problem solving. This qualification is intended for people who want to work in the private security industry and who require an SIA licence to practice. Days and times to be confirmed. If you are an unemployed borough resident who is actively seeking work, we will pay for your SIA licence upon successful completion of the Door Supervision course.

For further information call 020 8753 6324 or email alison.frosdick@lbhf.gov.uk

Get t he skills to wo rk in pr ivate secur it y

TEAM TEAM WHITE WHITE CITY CITY FANZINE FANZINE >>The Masbro Skills Factory takes a fresh approach to giving local people the training and support to find a job >>Project leader Clint Heine asked local mum Kayleigh Gibson what progress she has made

Q What made you decide to take part in the programme? A I wanted to make a better future for me and

my son and to make him proud of me.

What does it involve? I’m studying level 3 in childcare at the Masbro Centre as well as volunteering in its children’s centre, helping the crèche set up activities and interacting with parents. How have you found it? Interesting? Challenging? I love it! Working here comes naturally to me as I love being with children and relate well to parents as I am one myself. How has it helped you develop your skills and experience? By completing adult education courses in English, maths and IT, I have improved my basic skills tremendously. Taking part in the Masbro Job Club has greatly increased my confidence. Are you hoping to get a job? What are your hopes and ambitions, now and in the longer term? Through my volunteering, I managed to get a part-time job at Masbro’s Children Centre. My long term plans are to continue to work alongside children. What would you say to others who might be thinking about taking part, but aren’t sure? I hate to sound cheesy but being here has completely changed my life. Without it I would never have had the opportunities I have today, and I now have a clearer idea of where my life is headed. Kayleigh Gibson, who was given a part-time children’s centre job after joining the Masbro Skills Factory

O The Masbro Skills Factory offers ESOL, English, maths and computer classes leading to recognised qualifications, and its expert careers advisers can help with CV writing, mock interviews, work placements and job searches. O If you are unemployed, not in full time education, not already enrolled on a work programme and live in Hammersmith & Fulham, you could benefit. Call Rosemarie Hayden on 020 7605 0800 to book an appoinment.

xx 13

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TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

f o e s i m o r p e Th

w e i v k Par

New name for health centre chosen by White City resident Iona Wilson

competition to find a name for the area’s flagship new health and social care hub is over, and the winner is… Parkview Centre for Health and Wellbeing. The title was put foward by veteran White City resident Iona Wilson, who was inspired by the building’s location on the edge of Wormholt Park, and the fact that its giant archway will open up the green space for more local people. Ms Wilson was revealed as the winner of the competition, run by NHS Hammersmith & Fulham Clinical Commissioning Group, at the White City Festival in September. Well-known in the neighbourhood for her

longstanding community work, the retired dressmaker was a founding member of the White City residents’ committee in the 1970s. Ms Wilson said: “It’s meant so much to me to win this award. “I’ve had the name in my head for a long time. It’s a really good feeling to know that I named a centre that will carry on through history.” As well as offering a full range of health and social care, the centre in Bloemfontein Road will act as a community hub with activities and specialist services, including dental care, child development and support for people with long term

Iona Wilson (centre) wins the naming prize for the new Parkview centre (below)

conditions such as diabetes and heart conditions. Parkview was chosen from more than 50 entries by a panel of judges which included Mary Hennessy, local resident and manager of the White City Community Centre. Construction is still underway on the health centre in Bloemfontein Road, which is set to open early next year.

Work Zone Get that job! top tips for job applications Ninar Farhat, a recruitment and training adviser at Work Zone and a White City local, shares her top tips for interview success “I grew up on White City Estate and went to Wormholt Park School and then onto college in Queens Park to study to become a legal secretary. When someone offered me a sales assistant job I have to admit I didn’t finish my course. I worked hard and did well, the commission was excellent but after about a year I got itchy feet and uploaded my CV to Monster website. After a call from the recruitment team, I landed a job as an administration assistant, at a company who did the agency recruitment for H&F Council. In four years I worked my way up to a senior recruiter, I then applied for a temporary HR position with the council. It was while working there that I saw an advert for an adviser at Work Zone.

I’ve been here five months and the best bit about this job is that I love helping people in my community find jobs. Many people lack confidence, especially if they have been out of employment for a long period or never worked before. I help them with their CV, then coach and prepare them for interview. Sometimes it can take a few goes, but we usually succeed. I love helping people find work and watching their confidence grow. It’s important to have ambition.”

Interview top tips

CV top tips

Look the part Take time to prepare Research the role and the organisation Role-play potential questions and your answers with someone Don’t only focus on what you will get from the job – make sure that you let them know what you can contribute

Don’t leave gaps Ensure it is mistake free Make it keyword friendly If you’ve uploaded your CV to a job site so recruiters can find you, keywords will be vital in ensuring they actually do. Universally understood job titles and sector buzzwords will help a search engine pick out your CV from the pile Include personal statement Get contact details correct

Ninar’s CV te Name Address (hom e and term) Telephone (h ome) Telephone (m obile) Email

mplate

Personal pro

file

Summary abou t the skills you what you have done (degre have to offer e, relevant ex (targ perience), description) an d what you ar et towards the advert/job e looking to do . Three lines m Key skills ax. • Languages • IT skills • Other relevant skills For CV

and interview workshops call Ninar at Work Zone:

Work experie n

ce (most recent fir

Date

Skills gained

Education an

st) Company nam e, jo Main responsib b title ilities (communicat ion, team work , interpersonal, problem solvin g, et

d qualificatio

Date

020 8753 4691

University/cou rse/qualificatio n (grade or pr Subject edicted grade) Modules studi ed , dissertation Date School/FE co llege A levels (grade s if good)/oth Date er qualificatio School ns GCSE – num ber of subjects, including Mat Interests and hs and English activities (opt Not just a list io na l) – try to make them relevant for, eg, ‘travel to what the em lin ploy through meetin g around Europe helped de velop my com er is looking g a variety of munication sk people’. ills R

eferences

Available on

request.

Call 020 8753 4691, visit www.workzoneonline.co.uk or pop in for a chat: 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF Find us on the first floor above Shepherds Bush Library, access is through the library

Work Zone

I got a job at Westfield London – you can too Shenola Summersall was having trouble finding a job and then a friend told her about Work Zone. Now she works in Westfield London for Craftholic, a company selling soft toy characters. Here’s her story: “I was claiming JSA for a long time and then someone told me about Work Zone. They were really welcoming and Eiman Aslam, a staff member, helped me write a good CV which was then sent to employers in Westfield London and within two weeks I had six interviews. She then helped me to prepare with mock interviews and I was so successful, I was offered four of them. So from being unemployed, suddenly the choice of job

“If it wasn’t for Eiman and Work Zone I wouldn’t have a job”

was mine – and they were all interesting. If it wasn’t for Eiman and Work Zone I wouldn’t have a job. I chose to work for Craftholic because I love the idea of providing children with items they can cherish and find comfort from. I enjoy where I work, my colleagues are great, the atmosphere is very sociable and we are like a family. I have been working there for five months now and although I will soon be starting university I will continue to work which is great. I’ve been told my customer service skills are excellent and I now know how to approach people, help them and sell in a relaxed way. The best part of my job is seeing the happy kids with our company’s products. The smiles on their faces are priceless.”

INSPIRED?

For similar retail job opportunities contact Work Zone on

020 8753 4691

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

DRAMATIC Actors replay typical White City scenario as community opens up about crime and policing

dramatic misunderstanding triggered a the neighbourhood and what options are available lively discussion at a crime roadshow in to local young people. Jake, 14, a member of the White City. White City Youth Project, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel like this is a Three actors replayed an imaginary sequence of safer area than it used to be. Â&#x2021;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2020;Â&#x2039;ĆĄÂ&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013; Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2122;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2013;Â&#x2022; ÇŚ Â&#x192;Â? Â&#x2039;Â?Â?Â&#x2018;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are places to go like the youth centre to young man wearing a hoodie, an older shopper and Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2019; Â&#x2019;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2019;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2018;ĆĄ Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2022;ÇĄ Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030;Â&#x2022; a young woman calling in on her sister during like this event happening.â&#x20AC;? a lunch break. The group had an open discussion The three described how they each about how to improve community saw events unfold as the hooded relationships and address the youth tried to surprise a girl he mistrust which some young liked who was working on a stall, people feel exists between local and who the others assumed youths and the police. was being mugged. Superintendent Mike Hill A crowd of around 50 local said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always get it young people, police, council right. The youth are not only Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x192;ĆĄ Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2018;Â?Â?Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2122;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2022; perpetrators of crime, but they Visit: facebook.com/teamwhitecity gathered to watch the short are also disproportionately for more on our online crime performance at Phoenix High the victims of crime, and we panel and email: School on Thursday, 17 October, need to remember that.â&#x20AC;? teamwhitecity@ lbhf.gov.uk at an event organised by the Supt Hill stressed that overall in confidence if you would charity Only Connect, with support crime in the area continues to fall like to be involved from Hammersmith & Fulham and urged people to come forward Council and Team White City. with information about any problems Guests also discussed local crime and they encounter. policing concerns, such as how safe people He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Crime is down in almost all categories in Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x17D; Â&#x2039;Â? Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x203A;ÇĄ Â&#x160;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2122; Â&#x2020;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2030;Â&#x2022; Â&#x192;ĆĄÂ&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2013; this area with a huge drop in theft and robbery. But the rest of the borough is still doing better in terms of crime reduction so there is a lot more work we need to do as a team. Young people from the â&#x20AC;&#x153;We cannot do this job without the help of you, White City Youth Project discuss local issues with the people. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t act on things unless we know Danny Hibbert (centre) about them. We are out on the streets, but we do and youth project leader rely on people to tell us whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on.â&#x20AC;? Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2018;Â?Â? ÇŻ Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;ĆĄÂ&#x2021; Team White City has been helping the police, (far right) the community and other agencies develop a shared approach to local crime and antisocial behaviour issues.

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

C TENSION

Two actors recreate a case of dramatic Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x192;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Ć¤Â&#x2021;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x2018;Â? Guests take part in table discussions about local crime and policing issues

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For more pictures of the festival visit: facebook.com/ teamwhitecity and view our online gallery

An Albert & Friends entertainer finds a raindrop; goats get fed; Irish dancers

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Raindrops can’t beat the festival spirit Local talent shines through as hundreds gather for annual party in the streets of White City

ind and rain did little to dampen the spirits of hundreds of revellers who turned out to reclaim the streets for the second White City Festival. Drawn to the main stage by live music, dance troupes, circus acts and performers of all kinds, the crowds generated a buzz in Australia Road during the four-hour party on September 15. Other highlights included the open air premiere of musical film Tales of the White City, which was shown on a giant TV, plus fresh food, free fairground rides, massages and a petting zoo with goats, ferrets and a Shetland pony. The success of the event despite bad weather heartened the organisers at

Phoenix High School and the Big Local, who plan to run it as an annual event for the next 10 years. Garry McMillan, director of development at Phoenix, said: “We had a fantastic turnout and a great atmosphere at the festival – despite the bad weather. “It’s wonderful to be able to bring so much talent together in one afternoon.” l To talk to organisers about performing at next year’s event, email: festival@ ourbiglocal.co.uk

Sign up for our fortnightly e-newsletter and stay up to date on everything that’s happening in our community! Email: teamwhitecity@ lbhf.gov.uk with the word ‘subscribe’

Left, Moa Elvermark Nilsson from Phoenix High with veggies; above and below, the rides please; and Helen Rowe stays dry

Adult learning and skills service

LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR BENEFITS AND MONEY The way you claim your benefits is changing. Are you ready? Get the skills you need to make your benefit claim online ICT ONLINE BASICS This is a three day course – please call for days and times. This three day course will cover the basic skills you need to start using a computer and by the end of the course you will know how to apply for benefits online. Learn to use a mouse and keyboard, how to email, some basic word processing and how to search for information and stay safe online.

MONEY MATTERS This is a three day course. 12.30-3.30pm on Wed, Thur and Fri starting 13 November 2013 at ACLC. 6.30-9.00pm on Wed, Thur and Fri starting 13 November 2013 at MAC. There will be additional start dates – please call for details. Manage your money and budget – this three day course will help you to understand financial matters that are relevant to you and to take control of your money on a day-to-day basis. It will also help you to plan a budget for your personal use.

Adult Community & Learning Centre (ACLC) (next to Canberra Primary School) Australia Road White City W12 7PT

Macbeth Centre (MAC) Macbeth Street Hammersmith W6 9JJ

F BE REE N C EF O IT U CL R S AI E S M FO AN R TS

Don’t miss out – call 020 8753 6252 to book your place now!

Get help finding your way online...

...saving money at the same time! Discover how to get online so you can shop around for the best supermarket deals, and save up to ÂŁ800 a year. Find out how to pay bills online and set up direct debits - the cheaper, stress-free way to manage your money. Learn how to use services and fill out forms on the internet, from council accounts to job applications, quickly and from the comfort of your own home. Team White City is looking for local people who lack confidence with computers or smart phones, who are willing to accept free support from mentors within the community. If you live in White City and feel like you need a helping hand with IT, please get in touch. Find out more today. Email teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk or call 020 8753 1363

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White City teacher James Mullaly wants to help residents get to grips with English

More ESOL e courses art a available the Masbro Centre! See page 13

PLAIN ENGLISH

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Local tutor spells out the benefits of learning English

WHITE CITY COOKBOOK

language teacher who lives in the White City estate is encouraging others to enjoy the benefits of learning English. James Mullaly, 31, who spent a year teaching the language in Brazil, wants to help those who do not speak it improve their skills and build their confidence. An active member of the local community, James volunteered to support Team White City – beginning by giving people advice and pointing them towards local classes. He said: “The thing about White City is that the whole world seems to live here, and everyone has varying levels of English. It’s a very friendly place and it’s a lot easier to get to know your neighbours here than it would be in a row of terraced houses. “By learning the language you become a lot more independent than if you’re relying on someone to translate or speak on your behalf. “It gives you confidence in your own ability, and it also makes it much easier when you go to the shops. You can speak to people and respond more quickly, and it makes it a lot easier to meet people.” James, who hosts monthly community gettogethers along with his wife, Lucy, has a few tips for beginners to start getting to grips with English. He said: “If you have a radio or a TV you can listen to, that’s a great way of picking up the language. “Write words down or print them out and stick them up in your kitchen or bathroom so you keep seeing them, and don’t be afraid of making mistakes.“

DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO NEEDS HELP LEARNING ENGLISH? l ESOL courses are designed to help people whose first language is not English, develop their speaking and listening skills. Courses run every day at the Adult Community Learning Centre in the White City estate, with different levels to suit everyone from absolute beginners to advanced students. New ESOL courses are due to start in the week beginnning February 24. Places are free to those on benefits who are searching for work. Short, informal interviews are carried out with each candidate. For details, or to book an appointment, visit the centre in Australia Road next to the Ark Swift Primary Academy, call 0845 839 7912 or email: teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk

Time to Share Sharon’s Shepherd’s Pie RECIPE! l In each edition of the fanzine we feature a healthy recipe contributed by the community. This month it’s the turn of W12 resident and professional chef Sharon White, who has come up with an easy-to-follow recipe for a warming winter classic. Ingredients>> 2 onions, chopped 2 carrots, finely chopped 1 small swede, finely chopped 400g minced beef or lamb 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp dried thyme 1 tablespoon tomato puree 1 tablespoon flour 450ml veg stock 7 medium potatoes 25g butter In a deep pan fry the onion until golden, then add the carrots and swede and continue frying for about 5 minutes. Remove the veg from the pan, add the mince and fry for about 7 minutes, then add the cinnamon, thyme and tomato puree. Put the veg back in the pan with the mince, add the flour, stir well, then pour the stock in the pot, cover and simmer for 40 minutes. In the meantime peel 7 medium potatoes, boil them until soft, drain and mash with the butter. Pour the cooked mince and veg mixture into a casserole dish, spread the mashed potatoes on top, then place under a hot grill until nice and golden. Serve immediately. >> Do you have a healthy recipe you’d like to share? Email your instructions and a picture of the dish to: teamwhitecity@ lbhf.gov.uk

, G N EATI

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GOING DUTCH

Officials from the Netherlands head to White City for ideas

group of Dutch visitors took a tour of White City in September – and their trip was about more than just sightseeing. Officials from all corners of the Netherlands came seeking inspiration about how to empower their own communities, after learning about the success of local

projects. They gathered at Phoenix High School on September 18 to hear how staff try to reach beyond the school gates to improve prospects and wellbeing. Addressing the group, Garry McMillan, director of development at Phoenix, said: “We don’t want to close the gates at 3.30pm – we try to be a school that very much

Phoenix’s Marcia Clack (above) shows the Dutch visitors around the school’s farm

invites the community in, and we try to get out in the community too. “We need to make sure we influence not just the children, but parents as well.” Harry Audley, chair of White City Neighbourhood Forum, told how residents are working with the council and others through projects like Team White City and the White City Enterprise, which is being set up to manage some services and employ local people. He said: “The best way to tackle the challenges within the community is for the community to give direction as to how to deal with those challenges. The essence of it is partnership working, shared funding and the ability to direct resources from within.” The group were given a tour of the Phoenix School Farm and Learning Zone and the White City Community Centre. Trip organiser Danielle Harkes, manager of the Knowledge Centre on Housing and Care in Utrecht, said: “In the Netherlands, like in the UK, people are talking about localism and the feeling that people have to do more themselves. “Our visit has definitely given us some inspiration to take back home.”

Your route into the construction business If you’re interested in working in construction then you will need the Construction Skills Certificate Scheme card (CSCS) Hammersmith & Fulham Council in partnership with Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College are offering residents an accredited course to gain a CSCS card (which is required by law to work on a construction site). All residents who successfully complete are also eligible for a toolkit which will help you to start work straight way. This five day course is suitable for those in receipt of active or inactive benefits who are looking for work. You will be prepared for the exam to gain your CSCS card by mock tests and related tutor support. Candidates will also gain a Workskills Level 1 Certificate, covering: employability and personal effectiveness; self assessment; teamwork; and developing leadership skills and career progression.

Get the cer ti fica tio n yo u n e e d plus Work s kills level 1

Course dates • 4-8 November • 2-6 December Please ask about additional dates.

Pre-enrolment session There is a two hour enrolment prior to the course start date.

To apply If you are interested and would like to apply please send an email to clare.edgson@lbhf. gov.uk or lesley.grant@lbhf.gov.uk or call Work Zone on 020 8753 4691.

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GREEN TEAM

Clean-up volunteers in Hammersmith Park were joined by H&F Mayor Frances Stainton (main picture centre)

ARMY OF HELPERS GET TO WORK CLEANING UP HAMMERSMITH PARK’s TREASURED JAPANESE GARDEN

ozens of volunteers came together under drizzly skies for a one day clean-up of the Japanese Garden at Hammersmith Park. About 50 people joined the annual event on October 13, with some donning fulllength waders so they could step in to help clear algae and litter from the ponds. H&F Mayor Frances Stainton also attended alongside minister Hideki Asari, from the Japanese Embassy, for a reception

celebrating the fact that the park has held on to its Green Flag status. The group also heard about plans to develop the Japanese Garden, drawn up by Robert Ketchell of the Japanese Garden Society, and enjoyed a traditional toast of sake and Japanese food, courtesy of the Nippon Club, which

promotes unity within the Japanese community. John Gordon-Smith, chair of Friends of Hammersmith Park, said: “We had a great turnout despite the poor weather, and the hard work of our volunteers left the Japanese Garden looking much improved. Many thanks to all who gave up their time to help out.”

WANTED! Your pictures of Hammersmith Park for competition l The deadline for a photo competition run by the Friends of Hammersmith Park has been extended – and you could win a prize with your seasonal snap. The group is seeking more entries featuring the waterfall, pond, rock garden and climbing hill, and the best pictures could be included on a new display panel about the park’s history and attractions. Send your picture in .jpeg format to: fohp2010@yahoo.co.uk by December 31.

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D L E I F T S E W

Clockwise from top left, local residents Tina McKenzie, Geoffrey Taylor, Danny Hibbert and Linda Moll; birthday guests enjoy a glass of wine; the shopping centre; local apprentices Sheree Edwards, Jordan Griffith-Brown and Lesley Grant; Ingrid Hooley (on left) chats to a fellow guest; a pianist entertains the crowd; Clare Edgson from WorkZone at Shepherds Bush Library; and H&F Mayor Frances Stainton and guests watch a video about Westfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first five years

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IS FIVE! White City shopping centre celebrates its fifth birthday with a party for the local community at Jamie’s

COULD WESTFIELD GET EVEN BIGGER? SEE PAGES 32-33

little glitz and glamour greeted guests at a fifth birthday party for Westfield London. The successful first halfdecade of the shopping centre, which opened in Shepherds Bush in 2008, was marked with live music, drinks and canapes on site at Jamie’s Italian restaurant. Local residents, community leaders and business partners gathered at the restaurant for the celebration on Wednesday, November 6. Addressing the crowd of around 100 guests, Westfield’s general manager, Emma Hindes, and Nicholas Botterill, leader of Hammersmith & Fulham Council, praised the close relationship that now exists between the community and the shopping centre and looked forward to further opportunities over the next five years. The birthday party came just weeks after Westfield revealed detailed plans for a major expansion on industrial land to the north, including a fourstorey department store and more than 1,500 new homes.

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BIG PLANS

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Westfield wants new homes, park and department store

ew plans to expand Westfield London by building more than 1,500 homes, a four-storey department store, new shops and leisure facilities have been revealed. Details of how the expanded mall would look were published to mark the fifth birthday of the shopping centre on October 30. The whole project is expected to cost more than £1billion and could get under way within two years if approved, with the new shops and department store ready to open by December 2017. Outline planning permission has been granted, and Westfield expects to submit a more detailed planning application to Hammersmith & Fulham Council later this year. It follows a public

exhibition about the plans, held at the shopping centre over two days in October. More planning applications will follow later in the project, with 1,522 homes built in different phases over 15 years. The expansion will take place on industrial land to the north of the existing mall. To see more on the plans and give your feedback, visit: www.westfieldlondon-plans.co.uk

Westfield’s proposed timeline: Early 2014>> Planning application determined 2015>> Work begins on first phase of new shops & homes 2016>> Work begins on second phase of homes 2017>> Shops/department store open; first homes built

An artist’s impression of how the newlook Westfield could look at night with a new department store, public park and homes running along Wood Lane. Pictured top, looking south

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Volunteers graduate from community champions project as new opportunities emerge at the newly-formed Enterprise

Ƥ Ƥ ǡ Ǥ Many believe that by explaining to friends and neighbours how to make use of important local health services while encouraging them to lead healthier lives, the volunteers have contributed to a much stronger sense of community. And as this stage of the community champions project draws to a close - as marked by a celebration event at the White City Community Centre ǧ community leaders are looking at how to expand the idea and repeat its success. The champions were Ƥ achievement for their ongoing involvement at the event on September 26, when Harry Audley, chairman of the White City Residents’ Association, said the emerging White City Enterprise would

allow volunteers to continue to develop and build their own skills. He said: “There’s a whole range of things we’re looking at and a whole range of new opportunities. “We want to expand community involvement, not just in service delivery but in decision-making and involvement in every aspect of community life. “The community champions project has shown that here in White City we have all the skills

If you are interested in volunteering on local projects email: teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk or call Dinah-Mary Allotey on 020 8753 1363

necessary - all we needed was the opportunity. “We will now take that model and grow it into something 10 or 100 times bigger.” The White City Enterprise already has several projects in the pipeline to help empower local people, including a parent support network. Speaking at the ceremony, local resident and community champion Sue Iwai said: “I hope that because everyone has committed so much time to the project, that some of it will evolve into paid, professional work. “We need to keep on convincing people that we’re the experts, because we are local people who know what other local people want.” Fellow volunteer Khadija Maqsudi, who became a community champion after arriving in London from Afghanistan in 2011, said the project had encouraged her to learn English and Ǧ Ƥ Ǥ “I’d like to say thank you to the project for all the help that it has given me,” she said.

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ǡ Ƭ

xx 36

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street

spirit Young White City poet draws on everyday life in the city

n aspiring White City writer has drawn inspiration from his own life to publish his Ƥ Ǥ Under the pen name of Le Hornet, 28-year-old Leon Green has pulled together feelings and experiences from his younger years in Just Your Everyday Thoughtsǡ ơ Ǥ The father-of-two grew up ǡ White City four years ago, and the ƥ personal circumstances feeds into Ǥ ǲ ǡǳ Ǥ “My poems are based on ǡ Ǥ ǲ ǯ Ǥǳ Despite gaining few Ƥ ǡ Ǥ ǣ ǲ ǡ ǯ Ǥ ǲ Ǥ ǯ seen my frustrations, but they Ƥ

Ƥ Ǥ ǲ

Ǥ Ƥ Ǥǳ album of music called Many Faces of Le Hornet, and hopes to inspire ǡ ǡ ͚͙ǡ own poetic ambitions following a Ǥ

‘‘

I’m from the people and for the people

ǣ ǲ ǯ ơ ǡ ǯ Ǥ ǲ ǯ ǡ Ǥ ǲ ǡ ǯ Ǥ ǲ ǯ ǡ ǯ Ǥǳ

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xx 37

‘IF LIFE IS A BALL…’ If life is a ball make sure you dance to it, I know it can get foul but try and score that free kick. Just bowl through life and hit all your pins, if you can’t run past a certain person pass to the wings. Somedays I know I cannot hack it,

O Read more of Le Hornet’s poetry online a t: lehornet.blogsp ot.co.uk O JUST YOUR E VERYDAY THOUGHTS cost s £8 and is available to buy online at amazo n.co.uk

just ride life like a horse and hit it with a mallet. Somedays you wanna hold the ball and run right to the end, life is one big team game, if you want that touch down, just pass it to a friend. If you’re ever on the fast break, just dunk it in the net, or hit a home run, and run to the end with no regret. Our world is a ball of options, we can bounce with it or kick it aside, so just keep the ball in constant motion and in that motion glide.

Leon Green, aka Le Hornet (pictured above), with his friend Conor Reidy in White City

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BUSH HALL 310 Uxbridge Road www.bushhallmusic.co.uk Box Office: 020 8932 2652

qThe ice rink at Westfield

The Blow Monkeys Friday, November 8 l Formed in 1981, the Blow Monkeys achieved commercial success in the mid-80s at the height of Margaret Thatcher’s reign, recording music that reflected the fiercely political era. The original line-up are back together and have a new album out later this year. Tickets £17.50 Grand Union Songwriters’ Evening Sunday, November 10 l You get four British country music singersongwriters for the price of one at this inaugural get-together from Grand Union promotions: Raintown, Gary Quinn, Jeannine Barry and Hannah Jane Lewis. Tickets £10 World Burlesque Games Friday, November 22 to Sunday, November 24 l Starring the best in burlesque strip-tease acts from around the world, chosen from more than 300 entries, this year’s event is set to be even more glamorous than last year’s Olympics-inspired contest. Participants in different categories will battle for cash, prizes and the coveted World Burlesque Games Crown. Visit www.worldburlesquegames.com. Tickets from £20

02 SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE Shepherds Bush Green www.02shepherdsbushempire.co.uk Box Office: 0844 477 2000

Mutya Keisha Siobhan

W12 WHAT’S ON

Friday, November 15

l Returning to the front line of pop after 12 years apart, the original Sugababes are reuinted and set to perform at the Bush following an acclaimed headline show at the Scala, playing old hits and new material including the recent single, Flatline. Tickets from £21.93

The Game

Saturday, November 30

l Returning to these shores for the first time in two years, US rapper The Game is heading to W12 for one of just three shows in the UK in support of his next mix tape, Operation Kill Everything. Tickets from £30.93

The Naked and Famous Sunday, December 1

l Playing two nights at the Empire as part of a grand tour of Europe, Australasia and North America (the Monday night is already sold out) this is a rare chance to catch this fivepiece from New Zealand. Support from Sons and Lovers. Tickets from £19.68

qThe Game

Adrian Edmonson and The Bad Shepherds Saturday, December 14

l Having left comedy behind to focus on music, Ade Edmonson and his band will bring their latest folk interpretations of punk standards, alongside a clutch of original songs, as part of their UK winter tour. Tickets from £22.50

SHEPHERDS BUSH MARKET Between Uxbridge Road and Goldhawk Road Shop Local

l Support your local stallholders and look for Christmas gift ideas at Shepherds Bush Market, with popular food kiosks and grocers nestled alongside stalls selling clothes, unusual fabrics and almost everything else. Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8.30am to 6pm, and Thursdays from 8.30am to 1pm.

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TOP CHOICE WESTFIELD ICE RINK Westfield London November 21 to January 5

l Beat the winter blues by strapping on a pair of skates at Westfield London as the countdown to Christmas gets under way. The shopping centre’s 180capacity indoor ice rink will open from 10am to 10pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 6pm on Sundays, with regular themed slots including novelty jumper night, disco night, date night and school, student and family sessions. The rink is open to anyone aged four and over. Under-12s must be accompanied by a paying adult. Each session lasts one hour, including 45 minutes on the ice. Visit westfield. com/uk for more details.

SHEPHERDS BUSH LIBRARY 6 Wood Lane www.lbhf.gov.uk/libraries 020 8753 3842 Computer help sessions

l Find the support you need to get online and build essential IT skills. Wednesday 11am to 12pm and 3pm to 4pm, Friday 11am to 12pm and 3pm to 4pm, Sunday 11am to 12pm. Book in advance as places are limited.

Craft Club

l Tuesdays 3.45-4.45pm (term time only). For children aged three to 11 and their parents. 50p per child to cover the cost of art materials.

Homework Club

l Young people will find a

helping hand and a quiet environment for doing homework at the library each Thursday, between 3.45pm and 5.15pm.

Under-fives sessions

l Free story sessions aimed at improving children’s language and literacy skills are held on Mondays at 2.15pm and Tuesdays at 10.30am. Sing along to classic children’s songs at Rhyme Time sessions, Wednesdays 10.30am to 11am and Saturdays 11am to 11.30am.

BUSH THEATRE 7 Uxbridge Road www.bushtheatre.co.uk Box Office: 020 8743 5050 Radar 2013 November 6 to 21

l Bringing together artists and theatre-makers from across the country, this festival of new writing returns following its inaugural success at the Bush Theatre last year. This year’s festival will shine a spotlight on today’s hottest new writing talent and explore the urgent questions facing theatre now and in the future. Visit the theatre’s website for details.

WHITE CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE India Way White City Residents’ Association AGM Thursday, November 14

l All residents of the White City estate are welcome at the annual general meeting of the residents’ association, which will feature updates on the year’s activities and events along with food and light refreshments. 7.30pm till 9pm.

Citizens Advice Bureau Tuesday, November 26

l Free advice is available to anyone facing difficulties with issues like rent arrears, council tax, benefits, reposession or eviction proceedings. Each slot must be booked in advance – call 020 8743 4545 or 020 8811 2494 to make an appointment.

QUEENS PARK RANGERS Loftus Road www.qpr.co.uk Next home games

l Queens Park Rangers will play at home against Charlton Athletic on Saturday, November 23 (3pm kick-off), Bournemouth on Tuesday, December 3 (7.45pm), Blackburn on Saturday, December 7 (3pm) and Leicester on Saturday, qMutya December 21 Keisha (12.45pm). Siobhan