The Westminster Reporter

FREE!

Silver Sunday New day for older people

What’s on?

Autumn activities

Volunteer How to get involved

Autumn 2012 Issue 109

Value for Money Friday Get the most out of local services

WIN! Day passes to Porchester Spa

Unlock the door

to homeownership in Westminster

Do you live or work in Westminster?

Homeownership Westminster is a council service that prioritises those currently living or working in the City of Westminster for homeownership and rental ADVERT opportunities through a number of different options.

Arrange a face-to-face meeting to find out more and see how we can assist with your housing aspirations!

Register today Call: 0845 437 9701 Visit: www.homeownershipwestminster.co.uk Email: info@homeownershipwestminster.co.uk Find us on Facebook at Homeownership Westminster

Follow us on @HOW_Catalyst

Homeownership Westminster is delivered by Catalyst Housing, a charitable housing association

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

CONTENTS

3

Photo by Nick Bearman

6 Value for Money Friday 10 Top Tweets 16 Silver Sunday28 Volunteering 20What’s on 22 Independent living PLUS Win spa day passes – page 21

The Westminster Reporter is produced as part of Westminster City Council’s customer service programme.

Cabinet Member responsible for Communications: Councillor Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council.

The Westminster Reporter is delivered to homes and businesses throughout Westminster.

If you encounter delivery problems, please call the communications team on 020 7641 8088.

Also available from libraries and leisure centres.

The editorial team: Claire Appleby, Rebecca Jones and Clym Sutcliffe.

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

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

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

Printed on FSC® certified material.

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

Minicom: 020 7641 2948

Reference copies of The Westminster Reporter are available in large print and audiotape format. To have a free copy sent to your home call 020 7641 5295.

Published by Westminster City Council, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP.

Please recycle The Westminster Reporter.

For more information on recycling call the Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000.

4 LEADER’S COLUMN

YOUTH COLUMN

Delivering value for money Changes to adult social care over the past year have reflected our new approach of helping people to live independent and active lives.

The Big SHOUT Aqil Mahmood Jaigirdar, 19, tells us why he got involved with The Big SHOUT, an event at Chelsea FC that gave young people a chance to have their say on council services.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

C

ore to this is helping people to have as much choice and control over the services they receive as possible. We are doing this through providing support for people to get back on their feet after an illness or injury, giving people a choice in the type of activities they take part in through our community hubs and helping people to choose they type of care they receive through a personal budget. I also believe that we should actively support and encourage those who want to live in their own homes for as long as possible. In this issue we speak to some of the people who are benefitting from this new approach.

You will read about plans for Silver Sunday on 7th October, with free events and activities for older people. We are also delighted to be hosting our annual Tea Dance for 1,000

older people at Grosvenor House Hotel on the same day.

We also look at how the council is delivering value for money – one of my key priorities as Leader. In the last year, the council delivered some £60 million of savings helping us to freeze council tax for the fifth consecutive year. It also comes down to getting better deals on individual services and using them more intelligently. We are launching Value for Money Friday where each week we highlight special offers that will help you to make the most of your council services such as libraries, leisure centres and adult education. Turn to page 6 to find out some of the offers for autumn.

Cllr Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council

“T

he Big SHOUT was a fun and interactive way of showing young people what they can do in the city.

“I liked that it was a chance for young people from different boroughs to get together and express our opinions.

“We were lucky enough to have England basketball star, Melita Emmanuel Carr, who lives in Westminster and Graham Le Saux as guest speakers. Lots of people said that they were inspirational, and motivated them to keep up a sport, or follow their dreams.

“We also ran workshops throughout the day which were very popular. They ranged from cheerleading which my friends loved, DJing lessons and even parkour. I spoke to some young people who took part in the workshops and they said they’d really learnt something new.

“I’m starting university

in the autumn to study medicine at Kings College so for me the most useful part of the day was taking part in the health workshops. It was very interesting to see what people’s preconceptions of sexual health issues were compared to what the real answers were on the quiz we all took part in.

“I have learnt a lot working on The Big SHOUT. Running workshops was daunting at first, but was a brilliant way to practice public speaking, something I know will be a really useful skill for me in the future.

“My advice to young people would be to get out there – go to a youth club, you might even make some new friends.

Personally, I’d love to see another Big SHOUT event next year.”

F or information on events and activities, visit westminster.gov. uk/inthecity

You can now get free wifi on your smartphone, laptop or tablet in the West End through a six-year deal between the council and O2. Free unlimited wifi is available to anyone in Oxford Street, Regent Street, Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus and Parliament Square, regardless of your current provider. More areas will be available throughout the year.

Visit o2wifi.co.uk/my/hotspots to see where you can get free wifi.

Have your say on the future of the West End Leading figures in the entertainment, business and community sectors are creating a new way forward for the West End. Through the West End Commission they will recommend how the council can best support businesses, ease congestion and improve the quality of life for local residents and businesses.

Visit westendcommission.com to find out more and have your say.

Run, jump and pole vault at Paddington Recreation Ground Building on the legacy of the 2012 Games, we’ve opened a new £240,000 running track at Paddington Recreation Ground in Maida Vale. The track opened in September 2012 and features new long jump, shot putt and high jump facilities alongside the existing outdoor gym. The track is funded by the Mayor of London, London Marathon Trust and the council.

“Central London getting a new running track is great news for athletes of the future.

The London Games will inspire a whole new generation of potential sports men and women and it is good to see Westminster City Council leading the way in bringing important new facilities to the heart of the capital.” Mo Farah, double Olympic champion

5 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Free wifi on the move

NEWS IN BRIEF

News in brief

6

Value for money

Every Friday, we’re highlighting special offers that will help you to make the most of council and other services. If you already receive our monthly newsletter, you will automatically get weekly offers or you can sign up at valueformoneyfriday.westminster.gov.uk

Calendar of offers October Libraries There’s more to your local library than books. Make the most of the services that are available to you by registering at your local library.

Friday 5th – Thursday 11th October: free online language course

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Offer: Improve your language skills with online courses available through your local library. Choose from Chinese, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Scottish Gaelic, Spanish, Swedish and Welsh. Courses usually cost £5 for three months and you can work from home or in your library. Available to registered library users only.

Date: Sign up at your local library for online courses from 5th-11th October westminster.gov.uk/learningnexus

Friday 12th – Thursday 18th October: free careers advice Offer: Visit your local library for free one-to-one drop-in careers advice.

Get help with job applications

and advice on how to make your CV stand out. This is an ongoing service that is free to all residents.

Date: Two-hour sessions available on weekdays Venue: Various Westminster libraries Booking required. westminster.gov.uk/ employmentadvice 020 7487 8222

Friday 19th – Thursday 25th October: free X-Box, PlayStation and Nintendo Wii for 13-19 year olds Offer: Get your teens out of the house and down to Church Street Library where they can meet friends at the gaming area with flat screen TVs, an X-Box, PlayStation and Nintendo Wii. This is an ongoing service that is free to all young people aged 13-19.

Date: Mon from 9.30am–8pm, Tues, Thurs and Fri from 9.30amYou can access free internet and wifi at 240 public computers across Westminster libraries.

7pm, Weds from 10am-7pm and Sat from 9.30am-5pm Venue: Church Street Library, 69 Church Street , NW8 8EU Booking not required.

Call 020 7641 1300

Friday 26th October – Thursday 1st November: free legal advice Offer: Free 20-minute legal advice session from a solicitor online or over the telephone.

This is an ongoing service that is free to all residents.

Date: (Marylebone Library) Mon to Fri, 9.30am to 5.30pm (10am Weds) and Sat, 9.30am to 1.30pm Date: (Westminster Reference Library) Mon to Fri, 10am to 5.30pm and Sat, 9.30am to 1.30pm Venue: Marylebone Information Service (entrance in Gloucester Place), 109-117 Marylebone Road, NW1 5PS, and Westminster Reference Library, 35 St. Martin’s Street, WC2H 7HP Booking not required. westminster.gov.uk/instantlaw

November Sport and Leisure Friday 2nd – Thursday 8th November: free group exercise class at any council leisure centre Offer: Choose from any exercise class taking place at any council leisure centre during this week including box fit, body pump, pilates and more.

Venue: Council sports centres across Westminster.

Booking required and can be made up to 48 hours in advance. westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres to find your nearest centre and check times.

Call your local sports centre to book. Contact numbers are available at westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres

Friday 9th-Thursday 15th November: free swimming Offer: Free swimming for one adult and one child at any council pool during this week.

7 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Venue: Council sports centres across Westminster.

Booking not required.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ swimming to find your nearest pool and check times.

Friday 16th to Thursday 22nd November: free health suite session

Booking required and can be made up to 48 hours in advance.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres to find your nearest court.

Friday 30th November to Thursday 6th December: free group exercise class

Offer: Treat yourself to a free sauna and a steam room session.

Offer: Another chance to try a free exercise class at your local leisure centre.

Venue: Health suites available at Jubilee, Marshall Street, Queen Mother and Seymour Sports Centres.

Booking required and can be made up to 48 hours in advance.

Booking required and can be made up to 48 hours in advance. westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres

Friday 23rd to Thursday 29th November: free racquet sports Offer: Try your hand at tennis, squash or badminton. Racquets are available for hire.

Venue: Council sports centres across Westminster.

Venue: Council sports centres across Westminster.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres to find your nearest centre and check times.

Call your local sports centre to book. Contact numbers are available at westminster.gov.uk/ sportscentres Children in Westminster can swim FREE any time with an Active Passport. westminster.gov.uk/ activepassport

You pay your council tax in return for services such as libraries, social services, street cleaning, housing, schools and leisure centres. There are over 100 services, so make sure you’re getting value for money.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/counciltax to check the services that are available to you.

The average Council Tax of £687.62 (Band D) pays for: • Waste removal from six households per year • 270 meals on wheels • A social worker for seven days.

Take this page to your local Westminster library or council leisure centre to claim the offer.

Visit valueformoneyfriday.westminster.gov.uk to find out more about these and other offers, or to register for email updates.

Some offers are for services that are provided by the council on an ongoing basis.

Others have been sourced specifically for Value for Money Friday and are available only for the week of the offer by applying for a voucher on valueformoneyfriday. westminster.gov.uk or with this page of the Westminster Reporter.

8

Feature

“There are people to help.

Just pick up the phone.”

We’re committed to breaking the silence around domestic abuse, and helping anyone who is suffering.

“Remember you’re not alone, it’s not your fault, and there are people who can help you change your life.”

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

A

nnabel, 40, is a former Westminster resident, who is a survivor of domestic abuse. She has three children and was in a relationship with her violent ex-partner for 15 years. With help from the council and other services, Annabel has left Westminster for her own and her children’s safety.

“I was referred to the Family Recovery Programme by my social worker. I didn’t want anything to do with them in the beginning. As far as I was concerned, Social Services took children away.

So I tried to avoid them and keep it behind closed doors.

“I thought I could sort it myself, and I thought he would change, right until the final incident. Then I thought: ‘Do you know what?

He is not going to change.

I need help for me and the children.’ The Family Recovery Programme covered all the things we needed help with.

“I was offered one-to-one support with a Domestic Violence Consultant. She came with me everywhere I needed to go – court, solicitors, housing, everywhere.

She gave me emotional as well as practical support.

“When you are going through domestic abuse, there are so many issues that it feels easier to put up with the violence.”

“I was given an Intensive Outreach Worker who helped me with the children, and came with me to meetings about the children. I was given a Benefits Advisor who helped me work through all my debts and rent arrears and negotiate payment plans.

The Family Recovery Programme saves the council 88p for every £1 spent.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/familyrecovery

“They also put support in place for my ex. They really tried to help him, but unfortunately I don’t think he could ever change. I wouldn’t have seen that if it wasn’t for the support I had. It gave me the strength I needed to leave him.

“I only had to tell people once what was happening to me. When you are going through domestic abuse, there are so many issues that it feels easier to put up with the violence. It is humiliating and embarrassing to keep telling people you don’t know that your life is a nightmare and you can’t cope. It makes you feel like a failure, which is what he is telling you constantly anyway.

“The life I’ve got now is very different. It’s been hard but we needed to get away from the violence. I have been able to call my support workers in Westminster and they have always had time for me and reassured me that I am not a victim anymore.

“I think the main thing I’d like to say to anyone who is in the position I was in, is that there are people to help.

Just pick up the phone or

walk into a Social Services building and ask for a social worker. I realise now that the last thing Social Services want to do is take children away. Don’t feel guilty or ashamed. It isn’t your fault.

You need to break the cycle before it breaks you.

“There are people out there to help you. Just pick up the phone.”

“Westminster City Council has saved our lives. And I used to think it was just the place I paid my rent to!”

Annabel is a member of the Phoenix group, a domestic abuse survivors group run by and for women in Westminster who have experienced domestic abuse.

I f you, or someone you know is being abused call the National Domestic Violence helpline on 0800 2000 247 (run by Women’s Aid and Refuge).

T o find out more about Phoenix, or to join the group, email domesticviolence@westminster. gov.uk or text 07951 047 775.

T o find out more about how we can help, visit westminster.gov.uk/ domesticabuse or email domesticviolence@ westminster.gov.uk

9 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Although all the facts and circumstances in this article are true, the name has been changed to protect identities.

The image is for representation only.

Top Tweets

Follow us on

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

@CityWestminster

TOP TWEETS

10

High-tech parking New smart sensors in parking bays can help find parking spaces on your smartphone or tablet in a new pilot. The app will be available soon – keep an eye on westminster.gov.uk/ parking for updates

Berwick Street voted top market Visit Berwick Street market in Soho to find out why local people voted it their favourite market in our Love your Market competition. westminster. gov.uk/loveyourmarket

More libraries and a million books From October, library members can use their cards in Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea Libraries giving you access to a total of 21 libraries and over one million books. westminster.gov.uk/ libraries

New library for Marylebone Marylebone Library will move to Luxborough Street in 2015. westminster.gov. uk/marylebonelibrary

Piccadilly gets new pod hotel The Trocadero Centre is set to be transformed into a new pod-style hotel and residential complex. The site has previously been home to tennis courts, a music hall and the first 3D Imax cinema in the UK.

Weekend of free sport Visit your local leisure centre on 1st-2nd December for free activities, taster sessions and health checks. westminster. gov.uk/activeweekend or 020 7641 2012.

@CityWestminster

11 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

West End VIP Day

Inspired by sport?

Vote for your local hero

On Saturday 24th November, you can enjoy traffic-free shopping on Oxford Street and Regent Street. There’s also double rewards for American Express card members. westendvip.com

Find out about local sporting and volunteering opportunities, share your inspirations and hear how other local people have been inspired by summer 2012. facebook.com/ activewestminster

Do you know someone who has made a difference to lives or the community through sport or physical activity? Nominate them for an ActiveWestminster Award. westminster.gov. uk/activeawards

Pay your bills online Our new online forms make it easy to do everything online including paying your rent and council tax. westminster.gov.uk/apply

Care home consultation The council and NHS are reviewing the future of care homes for older people in Westminster. Come to a consultation event to find out more. westminster. gov.uk/specialisthousing or 020 7641 2631.

Have your say on youth violence Let us know what you think we could do differently to tackle youth violence in South Westminster. Call 020 7840 8349 or email ellie.roberts@cesi.org.uk

Go local

New dementia centre

Visit your area forum in October and November to find out what’s happening in your area, have your say on how your neighbourhood fund should be spent and meet your councillors. westminster. gov.uk/areaforums or 020 7641 3255

The council is opening a new dementia centre on Westbourne Park Road in November. It will provide innovative day care for dementia patients and support for their carers. westminster.gov.uk/ dementia

12

Back to school

Back to school If you need childcare at the end of the school day and during the school holidays, Westminster Play Service can help. You can choose from nine play centres offering supervised play and care for children from primary school years one to six. Some also provide Early Years care for children under five.

S

aeeda Akihali, 37, has three children who have all attended after-school care at Sussex Street Play Centre. She says: “I started using the council’s services five years ago. After the birth of my third child, I went back to work, and a friend of mine recommended Sussex Street.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

“The staff have always been lovely and approachable.”

“My children love it there – my 12-year-old daughter recently stopped attending and misses it!

“Every day after school, my two boys get picked up from school by the play centre’s walking bus service.

Staff from the centre pick up children from all the

surrounding schools, and they all walk to the centre together. I’m glad that they do it this way instead of driving, because I can be sure that they’re taking some exercise in the middle of the day.

“Children can take part in lots of activities, and the variety is important to me.

They have plenty of free play time, when they can choose their own games and toys, and the centre also organises occasional day trips at the weekend during term time.

“The staff have always been lovely and approachable, and as a parent, it’s a huge relief to know that your children are being looked after by responsible people and that they won’t be bored.

“They’re also flexible about when I pick up my

After-school play for children aged 5-11 years costs £6 per session or £30 per week. westminster.gov.uk/playservice

boys, so I don’t have to worry if I need to finish something up at work or if I miss the tube. The centre is open until 6pm and they’re very accommodating if I’m going to be a little late, which is great for working mums!

“My 12-year-old recently stopped attending and misses it.”

“During the school holidays, Sussex Street has special opening hours so that my schedule barely needs to change, and the kids have something exciting to do every day.

The staff arranged trips during the summer holidays so the children got a taste of London during this special summer!”

Visit westminster.gov.uk/ playservice or call the Play Service on 020 7641 1107 for more information.

Left to right: Fiona Toumazou, Saeeda Youssef Akihali Chahime and and two boys FarahherHassan

13 nfirst childrech ildrenfirst

Westminster Westm inster

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

more about e to find out Your magazin people’s services and young

Play safely ! this summer Top tips for holiday play

Your magazine

Issue 15, Summer

than for 2012! ever

What’s On

re Take cent stage

Summer activities & events

and Kids week LIVE offerStors West End e for familie y Lab FREE theatr This year’s Summer reading on is here! Challenge

Friendly

Breastfeedin g support for new WIN mums a family ticket to Legally Blonde

er 2011 12, Spring/Summ First, Issue Children Westminster Children First, Westminster Issue 15, Summer

First_May11AW

W

tickeIN! Horrits to Histor ble ies LIV 1 E

2012

11/05/2011

.indd 1

WCC_Children's

There is so much for children and young people to do in the city, much of which is free or low-cost. Take a look at this taster of what’s on offer this autumn and winter.

Take part in 100 hours of free activities every week through the Neighbourhood Sports Programme including football with Chelsea FC, street dance, boxing, multi sports, parkour and trampolining. There are also over 100 sports clubs with teams, leagues and tournaments to get involved with. westminster.gov.uk/active 020 7641 2012

Activities for children with disabilities Visit Brunel or Caxton Youth Organisations to join in activities for young people aged between 8–25 with disabilities and their friends.

Brunel Youth Project Monday-Thursday 6.15-9pm Creative arts, video projects and cultural evenings, games night, pool and homework club.

Age: 8-12 Venue: Brunel Family Centre, Brunel Estate, W2 5UZ Cost: 20p per session 07775 027 594

Chatterbooks reading groups Activities for children to develop their reading, giving them the chance to talk about books and to build confidence in expressing their opinions. Enroll at your local library.

Various dates at all libraries, visit the website to find out more.

Age: 8-11 Venue: Church Street, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Mayfair, Queen’s Park and St. John’s Wood libraries.

Cost: Free 020 7641 1300 westminster.gov.uk/chatterbooks

Homework clubs Nine libraries in Westminster run homework clubs after-school for children aged 7-13. The clubs are FREE and each library has staff to provide help and assistance, a wide range of books, friendly surroundings, photocopiers and several computers with internet access, CD ROMs and printers. To sign up for a homework club at your local library just ask for a form and fill it in (parents/guardians need to sign the forms). westminster.gov.uk/libraries

Caxton Youth Organisation Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 6.30-9pm Informal and educational activities for young people with disabilities and their friends. Call for details.

Age: 11-25 Venue: Basement, Tintern House, Abbots Manor Estate, SW1V 4JF Cost: £1 per session (call to book) 020 7834 1883

Sign up to receive Children First magazine FREE, three times per year.

Email childrenfirst@ westminster.gov.uk or visit westminster. gov.uk/childrenfirst

13:16

1

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Activities and events

FREE after-school and holiday sports

2012

West End LIVE & Kids Wee k Better

What’s ? this summer Baby

After-school special

Spring/ Issue 12, 2011 Summer

children’s

to and young out more about children’s eat people’sfind services A gr e to plac up! grow

14

ActiveWestminster Awards

Nominate your sporting hero If you know someone who has made a difference through sport or physical activity in this Olympic and Paralympic year, make sure they’re recognised by nominating them in this year’s ActiveWestminster Awards. It could be a community sports coach, a volunteer or anyone who has improved lives through physical activity.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

M

ark Boardman won the active resident category in last year’s awards. He co-founded Aslan Football Club in 2009 to help young people in Maida Vale through free football coaching.

“Aslan Football Club started when I was having a casual kick around on a Saturday morning with two friends. Local kids from the nearby estates started to join in and in no time Aslan had grown. Today, we have more than 100 regular players from all backgrounds and abilities.

“We got funding from a local church to set up the club, offering priority to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who may not otherwise be able to afford the coaching fees.

“There are very few football projects in London, which have a strong focus

“Winning an award motivated me to continue working to help young people in my community.” on personal care, belonging and mentoring. Because of this, we also set up the Aslan Café where people can get help with CV writing, job assistance and sponsorship of coaching qualifications.

“We wanted Aslan FC to be a place where young people can grow in confidence, gain recognised qualifications and nurture their passion for sport.

“I would encourage people to nominate someone they know because it recognises the positive actions of others who have a life-changing impact on many people.”

ominate online at westminster.gov.uk/activeawards or pick up a nomination N form at your local leisure centre. Nominations close on 7th October.

F ind out more about Aslan FC at aslanfootball.org or 0750 489 5135.

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

Mark Boardman

Free activities at leisure centres in December Be inspired to try a new sport or activity or visit your leisure centre for the first time with our weekend of free activities on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December.

There’s something for all ages, interests and abilities so come along and try something new.

• FREE activities for all ages at your local leisure centre • try a new sport • take a taster session.

V isit westminster.gov.uk/activeweekend to find out what’s on.

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

Quality care for your loved one makes all the difference If you are currently searching for a care home offering the highest standards of nursing and residential care as well as specialist care for people with dementia, come and visit Forrester Court and see how we can make a difference.

Forrester Court are supporters of Silver Sunday

v

Care UK has nursing and residential homes throughout London.

For more information visit:

What do k? you thin

www.careuk.com

Our homes specialise in quality, personalised care and aim to ensure every resident experiences: • A rich and fulfilling life • Comfort and reassurance • Respect and dignity

Visit us or call:

Forrester Court Cirencester Street, Off Harrow Road Paddington, London. W2 5SR Tel: 0207 266 3174 manager.forrestercourt@careuk.com www.careuk.com/forrester-court

‘Shaping a healthier future’ is a programme to improve NHS services in North West London NHS services in your area could be changing…

We are recommending changes to: •

Services outside of hospitals

•

Some services at the following hospitals – Central Middlesex, Charing Cross, Chelsea and Westminster, Ealing, Hammersmith, Hillingdon, Northwick Park, St Mary’s and West Middlesex

Have your say Come to the consultation event to learn about the proposals, ask questions and give your views: Saturday 6 October, 10.00am – 4.00pm Hinde Street Methodist Church, 19 Thayer Street, London, W1U 2QJ To find out more about ‘Shaping a healthier future’ or our other consultation events, please: • • •

visit www.healthiernorthwestlondon.nhs.uk call 0800 881 5209 email consultation@nw.london.nhs.uk

We look forward to hearing from you.

16

Silver Sunday

Celebrate Silver Sunday On Sunday 7th October, we’re launching a national day for people aged 65+ in Westminster. Lots of people and organisations have got on board to offer a packed schedule of events and activities throughout the day.

“This is a special day for older people to get involved in events and activities to bring back some of the traditional community spirit. It’s also a small thank you for your contribution to society.”Joanna Lumley

Seventy lengths for 70 years

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

I

rene Kohler will be celebrating her 70th birthday on Silver Sunday at Marshall Street Leisure Centre, by swimming 70 lengths for Advocacy Plus, a charity that supports older people in Westminster.

“I swim every weekend.

I started 25 years ago when I took my son for swimming lessons. In the first few weeks I would always see the same people, many of them much older than me. We started going to breakfast together after a swim and I got to know everyone and made friends. That’s how swimming became something I looked forward to.

“Keeping active is important for our health, but to stay active you need a little motivation.

Irene Kohler

I have a very challenging job, providing advocacy to support older people through many different crises, and swimming helps me wind down after a frantic week.

But as you get older you can lose that get up and go. Joining a club or a class becomes difficult; that’s when a caring neighbour or friend can really make a difference.

“You could always join me at Marshall Street Leisure Centre. Swimming is good for the joints, and ladies shouldn’t worry; the water is very kind to bulges!”

I rene is Director of Advocacy Plus.

To find out how Advocacy Plus supports older people in Westminster, visit advocacyplus.org.uk

Join Irene on 7th October. Email celebrating.seventy@ymail.com

Find out more about Silver Sunday at westminster.gov.uk/silversunday

Westminster PLUS 8am onwards Sponsored swim Marshall Street Leisure Centre Registration required: email celebrating.seventy@ymail.com

12.30pm-4pm Activities including aerobics, chair exercise, zumba, table tennis and rowing machines Moberly Sports Centre, Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH Registration not required

12 midday-1.30pm Line Dancing with Open Age Academy Sport, Torquay Street (opposite health @ Stowe), W2 5EZ Registration not required

12.45-1.45pm Pilates with Open Age Moberly Sports Centre, Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH Registration not required

12.45-2.45pm Singing with the English National Opera Community Choir Westminster Boating Base 136 Grosvenor Road, SW1V 3JY Registration required: email westminsterplus@westminster. gov.uk

2-3.30pm Discover the Secrets of Banqueting House in this introductory talk plus tea and coffee Registration required: email westminsterplus@westminster. gov.uk to enter a prize draw

2.30-3.30pm Chair exercise WECH Community Centre, Athens Gardens, Elgin Avenue, W9 3RZ Registration not required

2.30-4pm Line Dancing with Open Age Churchill Gardens Hall, Churchill Gardens Estate (off Lupus St), SW1V 3AL Registration not required

2-5pm Photography Introduction with Vital Regeneration Fisherton Hall on Fisherton Estate, NW8 8LP Registration required: email mmonaghan@vitalregen.org or call 0207 245 2861 to book your place

6pm

WIN!

A celebration of the Calendar Girls at the Royal Albert Hall

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP The Royal Albert Hall has donated tickets for an exclusive evening to celebrate the incredible fundraising journey of the Calendar Girls. For one night only, special guests involved in the Calendar Girls’ extraordinary story including stars from the film and stage show will come together for an emotional journey of music and shared memories.

The tickets have a face value of £30-£50 each and are likely to be in the stalls and arena and are not suitable for people with walking disabilities.

F or your chance to win one of 26 tickets in our prize draw please email westminsterplus@ westminster.gov.uk or write to Westminster City Council, 17th floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP by 2nd October. Please state if you would like one or two tickets. All participants must be aged 65 or over and live in Westminster. Terms and conditions apply.

Your magazine to find out more about services for people aged 60+.

A year ago we announced a new approach to adult social care to focus on helping people to stay independent.

S

ince then, more people are becoming familiar with using a personal budget to choose the services that best suit them. Our four community hubs offer hundreds of free activities every week, and our outreach and befriending service is helping those people who have not before used our services.

The changes have had an impact on the services that many people receive and it is important that you are clear of what to expect from the council and the care and support services we offer during this time of change. Most importantly, we recognise the way in which services are delivered is just as important as the services themselves. I have, therefore, launched a social care charter which embodies our promise to all service users that we will at all times treat you with dignity, compassion and respect.

Please take a look at the charter below and let us know your feedback on the service you receive on 0800 587 0072.

Cllr Rachael Robathan Cabinet Member for Adults Services and Health

Westminster Charter for Adult Social Care Dignity, compassion, respect

Integrity

We will: • Respect your beliefs and personal preferences • Ensure that you are treated with dignity.

Independence

We will: • Help you to regain skills to do as much as you can for yourself • Outline your support entitlement and how it is assessed • Help you to manage any personal budget you receive or give you the freedom to manage it yourself • Support your right to live free from any form of abuse.

Information

We will: • Provide clear guidance and information on services available • Make it easy for you to let us know your feedback, respond promptly and use this information to improve the service you receive.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Silver Sunday events

17

18

Independent living

Steaming ahead with a personal budget Andrew, 25, has a genetic abnormality called an XYY carrier type which means he struggles to communicate with others. He uses a personal budget to employ his parents as carers. His mother Andrea and his father David accompany Andrew whilst he volunteers four days a week at the Kew Bridge Steam Museum.

“A

ndrew was three before we discovered that he wasn’t speaking properly. His disability has affected his expressions so he can only say three or four words at a time, but they are well chosen.

Andrew’s father David

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

“Without Andrew’s personal budget we wouldn’t have had this opportunity.”

“Andrew has always loved steam locomotives and when I first brought him to the museum he fell in love with the place. Using Andrew’s personal budget we came to an arrangement with the museum and they kindly agreed that Andrew would be able to volunteer.

“Andrew’s case manager helped put together his care plan. It’s based around

Andrew at the Kew Bridge Steam Museum

Andrew, what he can do and how he can do it. It is illustrated to explain what he wanted in a way that he can understand.

“Andrew’s personal budget allows him to employ his Mum and I as carers. His disability means that he would not be able to work alone and needs a carer with him. We oversee his care and safety but also work alongside him. It has

been fantastic for Andrew to be able to choose how he wanted to spend his personal budget, and to have the flexibility to use it in an unusual way.

“He is a real asset to the museum. When it is explained to him clearly he will do a job very well, and he won’t stop until he’s finished it.

He’s a very useful man to have around the place! He works in the garden, he cleans

and paints the locomotives and helps the engineers out with the trains. He loves volunteering here.

“Without Andrew’s personal budget we wouldn’t have had this opportunity.

This experience will serve Andrew well for the rest of his life.”

F or information contact Adult Services on 020 7641 1175 or email adultsocialcare@ westminster.gov.uk

Left to right: Fiona Toumazou, Youssef Chahime and Farah Hassan

Westminster Car Club has a car around the corner and over 9,000 worldwide

3 FREE Parking in the City of Westminster* 3 FREE fuel and 40 FREE miles per day

Join Westminster Car Club and get

£30 FREE driving Just visit westminster.gov.uk/carclub and quote ‘REPORTERFA2012’ to claim yours.

You need to be 21+ and meet safe driver standards to join. First year joining fee is £25. Offer not valid in conjunction with other offer or promotion and expires 31/12/2012. *Free parking subject to minimum parking charge and limited to 1 hour per stay.

WCC0009_070912

3 Drive from £5 an hour 3 FREE Congestion Charge 3 ACCESS to over 175 cars in Westminster

What’s on?

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

Visit westminster.gov.uk/inthecity for the latest listings.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WHAT’S ON?

20

Food co-op Mondays, 1-4pm Affordable fruit and vegetable stalls plus healthy eating tips and advice.

Venue: The Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, Queen’s Park, W10 4JL Nearest Tube: Queens Park or 6, 18, 28, 32, 36 and 136 buses 020 8825 1067 a2dominion.co.uk/healthhub

Come Dine With Us lunch club 5th and 12th October, 12.30-2pm Think you’re a good cook?

Keen to share your recipes? If so, get cooking and visit our themed Come Dine With Us lunch club sessions.

Age: 60+

Unwind after work and explore our world-famous collection.

Listen to live music, take part in an art workshop or hear a talk.

Venue: The Courtauld Gallery, Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 0RN Cost: Admission £6/£4.50 (concessions) Nearest Tube: Charing Cross/ Embankment courtauld.ac.uk/lates

Haunted theatreland walking tours 28th October, 11th November, 25th November (British Sign Language interpreted) and 2nd December Walk the haunted streets and gas-lit back alleys between Covent Garden and St. James’s, revealing the secrets of the past and ghostly tales.

Venue: The Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, Queens Park, W10 4JL

Age: 12+

Cost: £1.50

Wheelchair accessible, please inform at time of booking

Nearest Tube: Queen’s Park or 6, 18, 28, 32, 36 and 136 buses 020 7266 2776 (Open Age) or 020 8825 1067 (Beethoven Centre) a2dominion.co.uk/healthhub

Park nights 12th October, 6-11pm The last in an annual series of music, theatre, performances, talks and film screenings.

Venue: Central London Cost: £9.50 per person

walkingtours@solttma.co.uk

Arts of wellbeing 19th-25th November A week of activities, talks and shows, including theatre and dance workshops, singing, live performances and a round table discussion on how arts impact on health and wellbeing.

Trinity College of Music Chamber Choir 23rd November, 1-2pm The Chamber Choir perform a musical feat under the lead of conductor Stephen Jackson.

Venue: Regent Hall, 275 Oxford Street, W1C 2DJ Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus/ Bond Street 020 7629 2766 stephenmaw@aol.com

Classical concerts at Westminster Reference Library Monthly, please call for times and dates.

Enjoy fantastic classical concerts including classical and jazz recitals, open music workshops and themed sing-along sessions.

Venue: Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Victoria or 11, 211, 239, C1 and C10 buses 020 7641 1300 musiclibrary@westminster. gov.uk westminster.gov.uk/musiclibrary

ActiveWestminster Weekend of free sport

Age: Young people and adults

1st-2nd December

Venue: Serpentine Gallery Pavilion, Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens, W2 3XA

Venue: Cockpit Theatre, Gateforth Street, NW8 8EH

FREE activities for all ages at your local leisure centre.Try a new sport or activity or take a taster class.

Cost: £5 or £4 concessions

Nearest Tube: Edgware Road/ Marylebone

08444 771 000

Cost: Call or go online for details

serpentinegallery.org

Late Night openings at The Courtauld Gallery

disability access

Cost: Free

020 7258 2925

020 7641 2012

thecockpit.org.uk/wellbeing

sport@westminster.gov.uk westminster.gov.uk/ activeweekend

25th October and 29th November, 6-9pm

Key:

Venue: All council leisure centres

B

advance booking required – contact venue

Competition

There’s lots on for children and young people this autumn. Take a look at our free and low-cost event and activity listings to find out what’s on.

Creative dance Tuesdays, 4-4.45pm Age: 3-5 years Venue: The Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, Queen’s Park, W10 4JL Cost: £18 per 12-week term (members) or £36 for non-members Nearest Tube: Queen’s Park or 6, 18, 28, 32, 36 and 136 buses

Cost: £10 annual membership plus £1.50 per session

Boxing Youths Mon and Wed, 5.30-7pm, Fri 5-7.30pm, Sun 11.30am-1.30pm Age: 14-17 Cost: £20 annual membership plus £3 per session

Nearest Tube: Maida Vale/Kilburn Park or 316, 32, 206, 328, 31, 98, 332 and 16 buses 020 7641 3642 sportscourses.org

Halloween activities at Victoria Library 31st October

020 8825 1067

Saturdays, 12-1.15pm

Venue: Victoria Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD

a2dominion.co.uk/healthhub

Age: 8-14

Cost: Free

Cost: £2.50 per session

Nearest Tube: Victoria

Gymnastics Fridays during term time, 3.55–6.25pm Age: 4-6 (3.55pm)/7-8, (4.25pm)/ 9+ (4.55pm) Venue: Academy Sport, Torquay Street, W2 5EZ Cost: £1 for a trial lesson, £6 for a second trial lesson (£8.50 for ages 9+) or £30 per year Nearest Tube: Royal Oak or 18 bus 020 3609 2351 westminstergym@aol.com

All Stars Boxing Gym Open daily

Amateur boxing and kickboxing Age: 10-17 Venue: All Stars Boxing Gym, 576 Harrow Road, W10 4RH 020 8960 7724 allstarsboxinggym@ googlemail.com allstars-gym.co.uk

Boxing Juniors Tues and Thurs, 5.30-7pm Age: 10-13

Kickboxing Kids

Autumn fun day

020 7641 1300

6th October, 9.30am-5pm

Halloween party

Join in activities and competitions and find out what’s happening at the library.

31st October, 10.30-11.30am Age: 6+

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

Wednesday 31st October, 5-6pm

Cost: Free Nearest tube: St. John’s Wood 020 7641 1300

Sports camp 30th October - 2nd November Get active and have fun this half-term by joining sports camp and taking part in football, cricket, basketball or multi-sport.

Venue: (tennis, football, cricket and basketball) Paddington Recreation Ground, Randolph Avenue, W9 1PD Venue: (multi-sport) St. Augustine’s Sports Centre, Rudolph Road, NW6 5AW Cost: £50.25 for four days or £26.30 with an ActiveWestminster Passport

Halloween crafts Age: Under 5s

Animal mask magic

WIN day passes to The Porchester Spa

T

he Porchester Spa offers a unique ambiance for you to relax and unwind.

Stepping inside the spa, you will experience an oasis of calm with its traditional décor of green and white tiles, high ceilings and all the original features intact.

Day passes include access to the steam rooms, plunge pool, sauna and jacuzzi.

31st October, 10.30am-12.15pm and 2pm-3.45pm Transform yourself into your favourite animal this Halloween.

Make animal masks inspired by the wonderful animals at the Wallace Collection.

Age: 5+ Venue: The Wallace Collection, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Bond Street 020 7563 9527

Visit westminster.gov.uk/

inthecity for the latest event and activity listings.

T o win one of four pairs of day passes email

reporter@westminster.gov.uk

by 31st October stating ‘Spa’ in the subject line

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

WIN!

21

22

Independent living

Helping people to live independent lives

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Helping people back on their feet after a fall or illness is crucial in helping them to stay independent and live in their own homes.

Our new approach to adult social care focuses on helping people to live independent lives.

Our reablement service is part of this new approach and offers short-term intensive care services to help you to do as much as you can for yourself.

It brings together NHS and social care services that are managed by an Occupational Therapy Care Manager who will work with you to create a care package you are comfortable with.

N

oel McCall, 82, from Church Street received intensive physiotherapy and care following a fall last year and is now on the road to a full recovery. He says: “I got up from my chair and the next thing I remember I was underneath my bed. I

“I had to learn to speak, walk and write again.”

Noel McCall

crawled across the floor to the telephone but didn’t manage it. I spent four days on my back in the hallway.

“Finally somebody heard me shouting and the paramedics took me to St. Mary’s.

“I moved to a rehabilitation centre called Athlone House.

It was the most incredible place I’ve ever been to. I spent around six weeks there to rehabilitate my body because I had to learn to speak, walk and write again.

“Everybody was there to help you recover physically and personally. They help you to maintain your dignity and get you back on your feet.

“They discussed the whole care plan with me before I left. I had a peculiar feeling about coming back to the flat again, but that was dispelled because

the carer was so cheerful and encouraging.

“They are there in the morning, afternoon and evening to make sure your bed is made, preparation for meals is done and they are just there to help as long as you do something for yourself.

“People don’t think they can do it until they’re made to do it. When you’ve been ill or in a position like I was, you’re inclined to sit back and let everybody do everything for you and that’s the last thing you should ever do. You have to do as much as you can for yourself right from the beginning.

“And so bit by bit you’d say: ‘I’d love a cup of tea’ and they’d say: ‘Well, come on, make it’. Gradually they take away the help once they’re sure you’re able to do it yourself. After three weeks I said: ‘I don’t need help in the morning or at lunchtime but I’d like to keep the evening help’ and

Noel McCall

“You have to do as much as you can for yourself right from the beginning.”

Noel McCall

that’s how it worked out.

“I now have a pendant alarm in case I fall again and

Community Safety

It’s important that criminals know that crime doesn’t pay – and in Westminster, the Payback Unit of the Metropolitan Police in Westminster, based at Marylebone Police Station, recovers money and assets which have been acquired through criminal activity.

The aim of the unit is to:

• reduce harm to communities • disrupt criminal networks • remove community criminal role models • take the cash out of crime.

A

it makes me feel so secure.

You feel as though there is always someone watching.

“The biggest achievement towards my recovery was being able to manage flights of stairs from my basement apartment.

The physiotherapist was here yesterday and I said: ‘come on girl, let’s go!’

and with a lot of nudging, pushing and lifting we did it and that’s really a great achievement as far as I’m concerned.”

F or more information on regaining your independence after an accident or illness or to request an assessment, call Adult Services on 020 7641 1175 or visit westminster.gov.uk/ independentliving

ll monies are transferred to the Home Office who return a percentage to the police. Some of this money is then used to fund the financial investigators who find and investigate criminals who have profited from their crimes, and to support specific community projects.

In Westminster, there are four full-time financial investigators working to make sure crime doesn’t pay in our city.

Since January 2012 the City of Westminster Payback

“The work of the payback unit takes assets from criminals, and uses them in the fight against crime.

More importantly their work hits the criminals where it hurts most, in their pockets.”

Detective Inspector Bob Currie, Westminster Payback Unit

Unit has: • obtained cash forfeiture orders totalling £186,000.00 • outstanding cash seizure proceedings totalling £377,000.00 • obtained confiscation orders totalling £767,000.00 • obtained restraint orders totalling £630,000.00 find out more, visit To metpolice.co.uk.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Payback – making sure crime doesn’t pay

23

24

Clean streets

Neighbourhood action Many people are taking the initiative to get involved in community schemes to improve their neighbourhood.

O

rganisations and residents in Church Street have come together to spruce up the neighbourhood.

“Days like this are important to bring the community together. It’s great to get messy, meet people and have a good laugh with everybody.”

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Brendan Philips, Ravensbourne House

Margaret Pollock, President of the Marylebone Rotary Club, was one of the volunteers.

“The clean up was a chance for people to learn about each other and work together for the community. I really wanted to give something back to our local area which is why I got involved.

“The Rotary Club decided to make Church Street our priority area for the year, so we prepared a programme of projects with the London Business School.

“We worked for three days on the Blackwater Service Road, washing down walls, shutters and doors, cleaning the street and painting the walls to make it brighter and safer to walk through.

“For me, days like this one are great examples that, by working with all different

Volunteers from London Business School and CityWest Homes at Medway House

types of people, we learn about their lives and become more aware of the different experiences people have right on our own doorsteps.”

Nicholas Hussein from the London Business School also volunteered. He says: “A team of 17 staff have come to Medway House on the Church Street estate to help out and clean up the

area. We get five volunteering days so it’s a chance for our organisation to come together with the local community to help out.

“We’re doing some painting and gardening and we’ve even had kids aged 10 to come and join in and paint.

We’ve had mini workshops with them painting small areas. We’re just getting everyone involved.”

F ind out about local projects you can get involved with or post your request for volunteers for neighbourhood projects on our community map. Visit westminster. gov.uk/volunteering

I f you need help for your neighbourhood project call our Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000 for advice on keeping your street clean, litter picking equipment and collections.

The council removes 250,000 tonnes of waste from your streets every year. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ rubbish

NICE SAVE:

Last year you saved £1/2 million by recycling and now you can recycle even more including small electrical items such as mobile phones, irons and speakers.

You can use one of 18 bins around the city to recycle anything with a battery or a plug. You can also recycle small batteries at libraries, estate offices and schools.

V isit westminster.gov.uk/ electricalrecycling to find your nearest bin.

Little pest in your life?

Give us a call FREE on 0800 358 0514

and we’ll send round one of our friendly pest control officers (like Cathy, here).

Cathy, Pest Control Officer

We offer: • pre-arranged two hour time slots (so no need to wait around all day) • text reminders • competitive prices And we’ll follow-up afterwards to make sure the problem is sorted.

So keep this number handy:

0800 358 0514 For more details about the service visit westminster.gov.uk/pestcontrol

Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

26

Health

The future of NHS services in your area The NHS proposes changes to health services in North West London and you can have your say in their ‘shaping a healthier future’ consultation.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

P

roposals include delivering more services outside hospitals, closer to people’s homes, and changes to some services at the hospitals listed opposite.

The NHS recommends that all nine hospitals should continue to provide an urgent care centre and outpatient and diagnostic services. The changes affect A&E, maternity and paediatric services as well as the hyper-acute stroke unit at Charing Cross and the Western Eye hospital.

They recommend that five of these hospitals are major hospitals, providing a full A&E service, emergency surgery, maternity and inpatient paediatric services.

The NHS propose that Northwick Park and Hillingdon remain major hospitals and that the other three major hospitals are distributed evenly across North West London. The options are in the table right.

The NHS prefers option A because it is the easiest option to carry out, will improve quality of care, makes good use of buildings, represents

the best value for money and supports research and education.

How do the proposals affect local hospitals?

I

f St. Mary’s and Chelsea & Westminster continue as major hospitals, Westminster residents are likely to be affected by them providing more services and receiving more patients.

St. Mary’s will need substantial investment to reconfigure and upgrade its facilities to accommodate the extra capacity required and provide a good patient experience.

Option A

Option B

Option C

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Hammersmith

Specialist Hospital

Specialist Hospital

Specialist Hospital

Charing Cross

Local Hospital

Major Hospital

Local Hospital

Chelsea & Westminster

Major Hospital

Local Hospital

Major Hospital

West Middlesex

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Local Hospital and Elective Hospital

Ealing

Local Hospital

Local Hospital

Major Hospital

Local Hospital and Elective Hospital

Local Hospital and Elective Hospital

Local Hospital and Elective Hospital

Northwick Park

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Hilingdon

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

Major Hospital

St. Mary’s

Central Middlesex

What is an urgent care centre?

They are open 24/7 and treat patients with urgent illnesses, injuries and conditions that do not require a stay in hospital. They are staffed by GPs and nurses. They do not treat major burns, head injuries, strokes, severe shortness of breath, heart failure, overdoses and self-harm.

Have your say

Have your say on the proposals or find out more by 8th October 2012. healthiernorthwestlondon.nhs.uk

0800 881 5209 consultation@nw.london.nhs.uk Drop-in: Hinde Street Methodist Church, 19 Thayer Street, London, W1U 2QJ on Saturday 6th October from 10am to 4pm.

27

Smoke-free challenge Did you know that you are five times more likely to quit smoking for good if you make it to 28 days?

Dr Mark Spencer

D

r Mark Spencer, Medical Director of NHS North West London, says: “We propose to concentrate medical expertise in A&E, obstetrics and paediatrics on five major hospital sites, instead of the present nine.

“This is to improve clinical outcomes and the long-term financial future of healthcare provision in North West London. All sites, including local hospitals, will have urgent care centres open

“We want Westminster residents to give their views on these important proposals.”

Dr Mark Spencer

24/7 and be able to deal with 60-70% of the cases which currently walk into A&E. Two of the three recommended options for major hospital groupings include St. Mary’s and Chelsea & Westminster.

It is also proposed that eye services currently provided from the Western Eye Hospital and the Hyperacute Stroke Unit at Charing Cross should be transferred to St. Mary’s.

If approved, changes to hospitals will be made three to five years from now.

“We want Westminster residents to give their views on these important proposals as we know some of them will be using some of these services.”

October is all about Stoptober – the 28 day stop smoking challenge.

The Westminster Stop Smoking Service can help you this Stoptober by giving you support and medication to give you the best chance of quitting for good. The free services and help available are: • a personal quit plan and motivational tips for how to stay on track • one to one, group, or telephone support • arranging a prescription for free nicotine patches • a carbon monoxide monitor for you to check your progress.

You can also register for a Stoptober app, order a free support pack and sign up for daily texts at smokefree. nhsuk/stoptober

Call 0800 328 8537 or visit:

Lisson Grove Health Centre, Gateforth Street, NW8 8EG or speak to your local pharmacist or GP

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

The council is hosting a public meeting on 1st October at 6pm at Westminster Academy, The Naim Dangoor Centre, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ

28

Volunteering

Be inspired This summer, 70,000 people volunteered as Games Makers at London 2012 and as a result more people than ever are being inspired to volunteer.

T

he council offers up to 2,000 volunteering opportunities through local charity, Volunteer Centre Westminster, to help you get involved. During the 2012 Games, over 260 people registered with them, 20% more than last year.

Listings snapshot

There’s a wider choice of volunteering opportunities than you may think. Take a look at just a couple of the projects you can join.

Westminster City Guides Volunteer to be a City Guide and you can work at high profile events such as premieres, Chinese New Year and St. Patrick’s Day. You will help visitors with tourist information and can choose which events you would like to attend. Training, travel and lunch are provided.

“It’s about developing skills and playing your part.”

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Khairy Eteiwy

Khairy Eteiwy, 41, was a London Ambassador at the 2012 Games. Earlier this year he worked as a digital TV outreach volunteer, helping people to make the switch to digital TV. “I spoke to hundreds of local people to help them switch over to digital TV by visiting health centres, launderettes, newsagents and pharmacies.

“I learnt a lot and it equipped me with the skills to be the manager of a London Ambassador’s team at the Olympics. I really do believe that volunteering is not only about helping others, it’s also about developing your own skills and playing your part.

“It is so rewarding and I would strongly recommend

Karate Club Volunteer Khairy Eteiwy

it to anyone.”

Nellie Khossousi, 16, is a student and lives in North West London. She recently applied to become a City Guide through Volunteer Centre Westminster.

“I went to see table tennis at the Excel Centre and seeing so many volunteers helping make the Olympics happen inspired me to get involved.

I thought it was a great opportunity to help people

who are attending events in London and also to meet new people and be part of future events held in our amazing city.”

V isit westminster.gov.uk/volunteer or call Volunteer Centre Westminster on 020 7266 1992 to find out more or to register.

A local Karate Club is looking for a volunteer to help out a couple of hours each week to assist with greeting children, completing the registers, filling in forms and collecting money. all 020 7266 1992 or email C stephanie.taylor@volunteer. co.uk

You can get involved in 2,000 local volunteering opportunities through Volunteer Centre Westminster.

Visit volunteer.co.uk

Your recycling guide Your mixed recycling collection is weekly Step 1

Step 2

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

You can recycle:

Step 3 Leave it out on your recycling collection day or put it in your nearest mixed recycling bin which may be in your building.

Tip: Flatten your cardboard boxes and add to your mixed recycling

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

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

30

Community focus

Over to you

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

Isola Akay founded the famous All Stars Boxing Gym and was an Olympic Torch Bearer in recognition of his work with young people. He works alongside his son Raman.

Here, they talk about their local area and the voluntary work they do.

I

Raman Akay

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

R

aman says: “I have lived in the Harrow Road area all of my life – 26 years! It’s a great place to live as it’s really well connected – only ten minutes to central London and places like Paddington, Portobello and Notting Hill, but away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a nice residential area.

“For me, the best place to eat is a Greek restaurant on Marylands Street called Tsiakkos. The food there is really, really good.

“Paddington Recreation Ground is also really close by and is a good place to train or relax. I coach at the All-Stars Boxing Gym on Harrow Road and we often use the Rec to train, sometimes using the athletics

track, or just by doing a few laps of the park itself.

“My Dad, Isola Akay, started the Gym in 1974 to train my oldest brother Tee Jay, who went on to fight Evander Holyfield at the 1984 Olympics and then became British Cruiserweight Champion in 1987. My Dad was recently chosen to be an Olympic torch bearer for his work with the club – it was a very proud moment for our family!

“We always welcome new members of all ages at the gym, so people should come along to a class, it’s a good way to keep fit, healthy and disciplined.

“I’m proud to say I’m from Harrow Road, and to be part of a really diverse, vibrant part of London.”

sola says: “Volunteering is really rewarding.

It’s a chance to be part of something. Unfortunately at the All Stars Gym we are not grant-aided, so we rely on volunteers.

We have many ex-members of the club come back to coach and pass on what they learned.

“The club wouldn’t be able to function without the work of the volunteers, I started the club out on my own and used to run the club two days a week, but now we are open seven days a week.

“The club is not just about boxing, it helps to transform negative energy in young people into positive achievement - we help them to become champions.

“We’d like to offer more sports other than boxing, but we’ll need more volunteers, either to coach, to do the office work and to work up fundraising ideas.

There are many ways people can volunteer.

“If I could do one thing for this club, it will be to keep the legacy going, and keep doing what we can for our young people.”

Isola Akay all 020 8960 7724 to find out more about the All Stars Boxing Gym C and how to volunteer.

Get the message...

Be smarter than your phone.

Take care before you step off the kerb.

Find out more about staying safe on roads in Westminster. westminster.gov.uk/roadsafety • 0207 641 2016

Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

westminster.gov.uk