Welcome to your spring magazine
It’s great when the evenings start to stay lighter for longer and we begin to see our wonderful parks and open spaces coming to life.
Our parks and playgrounds are just some of the areas that we invest in annually. On page 4 and 5 we explain in detail just how your Council Tax money is spent and how we manage our annual budget to be able to provide the vital services we provide for residents of all ages. We never forget that it is your Council Tax money that we are spending and the careful management of our finances reflects that.
The Bexley Box project that ran throughout December and the start of January was a great success – thanks to the involvement of Council Members, Staff and our partners. There is a short round up and a big ‘Thank you’ included in this magazine. We received so many heartwarming messages following the project that there simply wasn’t enough room to include them all.
This magazine also features our #CelebratingBexley campaign. This year sees the 60th anniversary of the Borough, the centenary of Danson Park, the 500th anniversary of the dissolution of Lesnes Abbey and 160 years since Crossness Pumping Station opened. We are bringing together events and highlighting some of our best loved places to visit as a way of marking these great milestones.
Page 25 - How to contact your local Councillors Page 28 - Useful contacts and telephone numbers News
If you would like to know more about the services the Council provides, or would like either a translation of this document or the information in a different format, please call our Customer Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777, quoting reference: 602063/3.25.
London Borough of Bexley, Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT 020 8303 7777 www.bexley.gov.uk communications@bexley.gov.uk
Distributed free of charge to every property in the borough.
Editorial: Bexley Communications Team. Designed and produced by: Bexley Graphics.
Front cover photo credits: Top right - The Mentor Ring.
Bottom Left - London College of Performing Arts.
Other photos - London Borough of Bexley.
London Borough of Bexley does not accept responsibility for goods or services offered by advertisers.
4-5 Your Council Tax
6 Danson Splash Park investment
12 LECB ‘good’ again
SPOTLIGHT ON…
10-11 Bexley Box Thank You
COMMUNITIES
16-17 #CelebratingBexley
19 Wellbeing
20 Our wonderful libraries
SIX THINGS
22 Unusual sports in Bexley
LOCAL HISTORY
21 All our yesterdays
WHAT’S ON 26-28 Local events
29 Local organisations 25 Bank Holiday Rubbish and Recycling Dates
Recycle your Bexley Magazine
This magazine has been printed using 100% recycled paper made in the UK from paper waste from other Councils across the UK.
Your Council Tax
Council staff deliver vital services to more than 250,000 residents who live in the Borough. These include the social care services that account for the majority of our spending.
In the past year, for example, we have reduced fly-tipping by a third, repaired more than 1,700 potholes, introduced a new bin collection look-up tool online, collected 99.9% of bins correctly out of a million bins per month, set up 100 new electric charge points in residential streets across the borough, sent more than 50% of household waste for recycling, invested £1 million in supporting foster carers, set up a new Care Finder platform for adults and supported many residents facing challenges posed by the cost of living.
Difficult financial pressures on local authorities across the country are well documented. Bexley is no exception. Our population is growing but funding provided from central Government has not been keeping pace with the increasing demands and costs. We work hard to keep our spending within our means and we are lobbying for a greater share of central funding, to meet the growing needs of our residents.
In contrast to some councils, however, our budget for the year ahead is balanced. We will be investing more than: £500m in day-to-day services in 2025/26, including:
X £91 million to provide social care for around 5,500 children and young people and education provision (excluding schools)
X £135 million to support around 8,700 adults through social care
X £262 million over four years through the Capital Programme, including £86m in 2025/26 Capital Programme projects such as:
y Over £1.8m to support street properties for adult social care
y Nearly £9m for school special education needs provision
y £0.86m for school capital maintenance
y Over £0.98m for the installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Points
y Funding for playgrounds, potholes, highways repairs, Erith regeneration, road resurfacing, new homes and affordable homes through BexleyCo and the procurement of a modern new CCTV system.
In total, the Council will be spending in revenue and capital an average of about £1.4m per day.
The Council is not the only organisation providing public services in the Borough that are partly funded from your Council Tax. The illustrations on these pages show where the money to pay for Council and other local services comes from and how it is spent.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said:
We understand that many residents are under pressure due to the cost of living and as always, we will continue to work hard to ensure that we spend your money sensibly. Your Council Tax goes towards paying for services we all depend on, but much of our budget comes from Central Government funding.
However, the way that funding is allocated is outdated. Bexley’s population is growing, with a shift of Inner London issues and pressures spreading to Outer London. Funding from Central Government has failed to reflect that. Boroughs across the Outer London belt are increasingly struggling to balance their books. The disparity in funding between Inner and Outer London has become unmanageable. If Bexley received an average share of London’s funding, we would get an additional £63 million each year. Just like businesses and households, we are being hit hard by decisions taken by the Government, such as National Insurance Contribution increases, which could cost the Council many millions of pounds of additional costs over the medium term.
Bexley residents deserve fairer funding and better treatment from Central Government. This is a simple message that we are pressing upon key decision makers. Urgent change to the current system is essential.
Council Tax
Bexley’s Council Tax requirement will result in a Council Tax for band D property with two or more residents of £2,258.03 in 2025/26.
A comparison of Bexley’s and the Greater London Authority’s Council Tax for 2025/26 with last year is shown in the table below.
How
is it paid for?
Council Tax is just one of the Council’s sources of income.
What we spend
The Council has a good track record for financial management and efficiency, making year-on-year savings to keep costs down and improve services.
Over the last 15 years we have saved £146m. In 2025/26, the Council is expecting to raise £151m from Council Tax income and above is how we expect to spend the money.
What we have saved
The Council has a good track record for financial management.
The future budget gap
The Council has set a balanced budget for the 2025/26 financial year, however there are many challenges ahead. The forecasted budget gap is set to reach £43.893m by 2028/29 due to rising costs, pressures and demands on services and ongoing economic uncertainty. There continues to be increasing spending pressures in a number of key services, including both Children and Adult Social Care, Special Education Needs Transport, Emergency Accommodation and other demand-led services such as Parking and Waste Services.
Uncertainty around the state of the economy over the next few years will also have an impact. Energy prices, inflation and interest rates have a direct impact on the Council, the amount we pay for services and the income we are able to collect. We are also being affected by Government decisions, such as National Insurance Contribution increases which could see an increase in additional costs. Our challenge is to continue to provide good quality and affordable public services, while balancing our income and spending levels in the current challenging circumstances.
Time for tennis
Since the reopening of Bexley’s park tennis courts following last year’s extensive renovation works, the popularity of the new courts has gone from strength to strength.
The new tennis operator, TwistFizz has been busy designing an exciting programme to meet the needs of residents of all ages and abillities.
Offers include the Bexley Tennis Pass that provides an entire household up to five hours of
tennis each week for just £35 per year, ‘Pay and Play’ sessions for just £7 per hour, coaching sessions for all levels as well as free tennis at all venues between 9am to 12pm Monday to Friday.
The renovations were made possible following funding from the Council, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Tennis Foundation and the Government.
Find out more https:// clubspark.lta.org.uk/ ParksTennisinBexley or email hello@twistfizz.co.uk
New outdoor space recognised
‘The Clearing’ at Lesnes Abbey Woods has been named in the Top 10 UK architecture projects of 2024, by Dezeen architecture magazine.
‘The Clearing’ has also made the RIBA MacEwen Awards 2025 shortlist, for projects epitomising architecture for the common good.
The new outdoor classroom and craft space opened in September last year and is already
proving to be popular, providing opportunities for visitors to learn green woodworking skills and for Early Years children to experience the outdoors. Find out more www.lesnesabbeywoods.org
Splashing fun in time for summer!
Bexley is investing £240,000 to improve the water playground and toilets in Danson Park.
The old worn-out surface and equipment in the water park will be replaced. The new design will feature waist level water activation posts to broaden inclusivity for those with disabilities and to ensure it remains completely accessible for those with mobility issues.
One end of the new play area will have characters at low levels and gentle water sprays for younger children and water play novices to enjoy while at the other end there will be water features more suited to children who are confident in the water.
The toilets opposite the car park and the Mansion House toilets have re-opened following refurbishment. The splash park toilets will reopen by the end of March.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Cllr Richard Diment, said:
‘‘We’re making a significant investment in Danson splash park and in the toilet facilities because we know how important these are for local families. We’ve ensured that the water playground will be fully accessible and more environmentally friendly.”
Specialist water playground provider Ustigate Ltd started the improvement works in January. The works should be completed at the end of Spring.
LECB ‘Good’ - again!
The Learning and Enterprise College Bexley (LECB) has been recognised as a ‘Good’ provider in its latest Ofsted inspection, reaffirming its commitment to delivering highquality education and skills training for adults in the borough.
Inspectors praised LECB’s inclusive and supportive environment, highlighting the dedication of staff in helping learners gain confidence, develop new skills and progress into further education or employment. The report also commended the college’s strong leadership, well-structured courses and collaboration with local employers and organisations, ensuring learners are equipped for real-world opportunities.
LECB, based at its Brampton Road campus in Bexleyheath, offers a diverse range of courses, including functional skills, ESOL, vocational training and creative arts. Many courses are funded or subsidised, making education accessible to all.
Cllr Caroline Newton, Cabinet Member for Education said:
“LECB is a shining example of how education can transform lives. The college’s impact extends far beyond the classroom, creating opportunities that make a difference to individuals, families and the wider community.”
Jane Whitefield, Interim Principal of LECB said:
“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the positive impact we have on our learners and the wider community. This result is a testament to the hard
BBE move to Civic Offices
The Council’s employment service, Bexley Business & Employment (BBE) is moving from Erith and will be based on the ground floor in Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath, DA6 7AT from May 2025. The move marks an exciting new chapter for the BBE employment team and is another step forward in the Councils commitment to make cost savings and service improvements.
Bexley Business & Employment (BBE) provide free employment and business support in the borough on behalf of the Council.
Support is available for anyone living in Bexley in need of job search assistance, including help with job interview preparation and CVs.
Find out more about the employment and business support offered by the BBE www.bexley.gov.uk/bexleybusiness-employment
www.lecb.ac.uk
work, commitment and passion of our team, who strive to create a supportive and enriching learning environment.’’
Prospective learners can find out more at LECB’s regular Open Days where they can meet tutors, explore courses and discover the learning opportunities available.
Partnership work to improve outcomes
School in Sidcup is working with the Council to develop inclusive practice and knowledge in Bexley mainstream schools, by delivering a new outreach programme. The programme aims to support the progress of local children and young people with special educational needs and/ or disabilities (SEND), while supporting them to stay in their school. This initiative, is being implemented as part of the wider Department for Education Safety Valve Programme. The Safety Valve Programme is designed to enhance the education offer available for children and young people with more complex needs.
More on the outreach work www.marlborough.bexley.sch.uk/ 3346/outreach
Safety Valve Programme in Bexley www.bexleylocaloffer.uk/ Page/3748
Marlborough
Lots to celebrate in Erith
The Council has been working with local people and partners to deliver some impressive improvements in Erith, making the most of its riverside location, highlighting what a great place it is to live, work and visit.
At Riverside Gardens works are really starting to take shape. The re-landscaping of the gardens, bringing residents and visitors closer to the River Thames with new seating, a playground and outdoor fitness zone, as well as a community gardening area will be complete in the Spring. The gardens are expected to reopen in the coming months.
Work is also on track to be completed at 68 Pier Road which is being transformed into a multiuse community space.
The new space will be known locally as 68 following a public vote. It will have a kitchen, a hireable events area and meeting rooms plus a Changing Places toilet facility. There will also be an indoor courtyard that local people can use to meet and relax that will also be used for outdoor community events.
With works to improve Walnut Tree Road for pedestrians and vehicles expected to be complete by this summer there will be plenty to celebrate in Erith in 2025.
Cabinet Member for Growth Cllr Cafer Munur said:
“It is brilliant to see how the improvements in Erith are shaping up and how the area is being transformed. These enhancements will help make this riverside town even more attractive to local people, businesses and visitors.”
Smarter CCTV
Bexley is to replace its out-dated CCTV system to better equipped digital technology to respond to crime.
The new flexible system will be a hybrid model, with both fixed cameras in key locations and mobile cameras which can be temporarily placed in different locations.
The new digital system will also provide significantly better image quality and a more modern operating system.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Housing, Cllr Brian Bishop said:
“We know from speaking to our residents how important they feel it is to have CCTV in the community.
With that in mind and taking the vast improvements to technology since the last contract was commissioned into consideration, we have decided to invest in a system that will deliver greater impact in keeping our residents safe.”
Keep up to date with the improvements and find out more about the community celebration event at www.greatererith.com
New School
crossings
Two new zebra crossings, both in the Northumberland Heath area, have been given the go-ahead with work planned to begin in the summer holidays to minimise disruption.
A new zebra crossing will be sited at Bexley Road close to the junction with Ling Road to help school children at St Fidelis Catholic Primary School, as well as other residents cross Bexley Road safely.
The second new crossing will be outside Northumberland Heath Primary School on Brook Street. Other school crossing schemes have been identified and these will be consulted on in the usual way as funding becomes available.
Image shows the contrast in quality between the new cameras and the old
Looking after our roads
Our roads get a lot of use which means they require a lot of upkeep. There are more than 50 miles of major roads and over 300 miles of smaller roads that make up Bexley’s network.
During autumn and winter colder temperatures cause problems. Water seeps into small cracks in the road, then freezes and expands, breaking the asphalt apart. Over time this leads to potholes which get worse the more vehicles drive over them.
Our technicians inspect every road at least twice a year and also check again if we receive complaints. Technicians are available 24/7 to handle emergencies and arrange to make our roads safe again immediately if needed. A list is drawn up of the roads in the worst condition based on these inspections and on local knowledge and decisions are then
made on the best way to fix them. The aim is to repair as many potholes and defects as possible within the available budget. Repairs range from resurfacing entire roads to fixing smaller patches.
So far in 2025, the Council has completed repairs on 13 major resurfacing projects, 66 large patches and more than 1,700 individual potholes.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Cllr Richard Diment said,
“We know that a good standard of roads is something that residents regularly tell us is a priority for
Blue Badge offences
More than 30 motorists have been prosecuted in the last year, receiving more than £47,000 in fines, court costs and surcharges.
Fifteen motorists have been prosecuted for Blue Badge abuse offences in the last five months alone. The total in fines, costs and surcharges for these cases amounted to £20,964.
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Cllr Richard Diment said,
“We will not tolerate Blue Badge offences. The scheme exists to help those who need a space for a genuine reason – it is not for selfish criminals who try to con the system. Fraudsters be warned – we will take action.”
If you suspect a misuse of a Blue Badge you can report it online - www.bexley. gov.uk/blue-badge-misuseenforcement
them and that we have much more to do. We are committed to taking the steps needed to bring up the standards of our roads as more funding becomes available.’’
To raise a road issue online visit https://bexley.gov.uk/ fixmystreet
FixMyStreet improvements
Improvements to the FixMyStreet online reporting tool means that it is now easier for residents to keep up to date with the issues they have raised.
New ‘real time’ messages make sure that residents know about the status of their report.
An enhanced communications system means that Council contractors will be able to provide updates.
A new map will shortly include colour coded pins to provide status information on reports.
If you have an issue visit https://bexley. gov.uk/fixmystreet
Thankyou!
The Bexley Box project saw some of our most vulnerable elderly housebound residents receive a special box filled with goods designed to help keep them warm and well over the winter months.
The project was established to try to address some of the impact of the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment withdrawal at short notice.
More than 800 boxes packed with essentials such as porridge, tinned goods, scarves, hats and warm socks, as well a list of useful contacts and winter wellbeing advice and a special treat were delivered over December and early January.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE launched the project in November. She worked with local businesses, partners, Councillors, Council staff, schools and volunteers to get the boxes out of the door and delivered to those who needed them most. Large Bexley Box donations were also received from companies with local connections including the Erith Group, Capita, Cory and Countrystyle Recycling.
Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said:
“We were overwhelmed by the amazing generosity of local people, businesses and our partners.
As soon as we launched the project we were receiving donations of goods and offers of money for the Bexley Box, as well as people offering their time to either pack or deliver the parcels. We were delighted that some of our schools got behind the project and helped collect goods on our behalf, making it a truly intergenerational project!
We set out to reach as many housebound elderly people as possible to make sure that they were remembered this winter.
It can be a dark and lonely time and I hope that these boxes have helped to provide some light during the season. The calls and messages we have had from residents who received the boxes and their families have been wonderful and make all the hard work behind the project worthwhile.”
Some thank you messages received
Just to say a massive thank you for the wonderful boxes that you kindly delivered to my grandparents. They were absolutely thrilled and the contents are so helpful.
Thank you very much for the thoughtfully chosen Bexley Box my husband received!
Thank you so much for the Bexley Box received today. Please pass on my thanks to all involved in donating, packing and delivering the Box, it really is much appreciated.
You recently delivered a Bexley Box to my mother, who is 99 and housebound. I just wanted to thank you on her behalf, she is very grateful for all the items she has been given to help her through the cold winter months,
Third anniversary of the war in Ukraine
Following Russia’s attack on Ukraine on 24 February 2022, Bexley has been welcoming Ukrainian nationals through the government funded Homes for Ukraine scheme.
More than 500 displaced Ukrainian nationals have been found places to live in the borough. The majority of those have been placed with Homes for Ukraine ‘sponsors’ who have found space in their own homes.
Clare Chalaye has been part of the scheme since April 2022.
Claire said:
“Having a Ukrainian family has
taught me a lot about how much we have in common, that things can change for whole countries in an instant, that there are a lot of kind people in Bexley.
Maryna, Dasha and Ira arrived with a small suitcase between them. Dasha and Ira started school soon after, plus worked online to keep up with Ukrainian studies.
Maryna found a part time job as soon as she could. I know she would go home in a heartbeat if it was safe for her to do so. She misses her husband so much and had a great life in Kyiv.”
Maryna said:
“We are extremely grateful to Clare. She let us into her home and into her heart. She has been incredibly supportive all along and three years on we’re still in her home. Unfortunately the war is not over, far from it.”
Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/ukraine
(Left to right) Clare, Ira, Maryna and Dasha
A new scheme to crack down on litter offenders in Bexley with more patrols and higher fines has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of fixed penalty notices issued.
In 2023 1,243 fixed penalty notices were issued for littering while in 2024 figures rose by 85% with 2,297 fixed penalty notices issued to date. In addition, in 2024 more than 1,007 fixed penalty notices were issued for fly tipping.
Littering, dog fouling and fly tipping are all criminal offences.
On the spot fixed penalty notices of up to £300 will be issued to anyone caught littering or not clearing up after their dogs. Fly tipping can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Crack down on littering contamination
Electric waste collection vehicles
If you see this happening email the details and any camera or dashcam footage to areasupportteam@ bexley.gov.uk
Help us stop
In January the Material Recycling Facility, that takes everything collected from Bexley’s white lidded recycling bins, had to reject several loads because of contamination.
The rejected loads contained material that cannot be accepted in the white lidded bins such as nappies, plastic bags, food waste, large plastic or electrical items and textiles.
We’ve been trialling an electric waste collection vehicle as part of the Council’s commitment to reduce its carbon emissions and use of diesel fuel.
The use of battery-powered refuse collection trucks that require a single overnight charge to complete a daily round is not only more environmentally friendly but with reduced fuel costs would be more cost effective in the long-term.
Topography, weather and driving style all impact on battery range. Collection rounds in Bexley also vary in complexity so more extensive trials will need to take place to determine how best electric vehicles would work.
Bexley student urges everyone to recycle their fo od
Only empty plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays from your kitchen and bathroom, aluminium drinks cans, tin food cans and tin foil, glass bottles and jars should go in the white-lidded bin.
Putting the wrong items in recycling bins means that the recycling efforts of everyone who contributed to a load will have been wasted as recyclables that are contaminated have to be sent for incineration as general waste.
Nappies and plastic bags should go in the green general waste bin and food waste should be going into your food recycling box that we collect weekly.
Large plastic, electrical items and textiles should be placed in designated bins across the Borough or taken to the Boroughs two reuse and recycling centres at Thames Road (DA1 5QJ) and Foots Cray (DA14 5HS).
Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/ recyclemore to check on what should go in our bins.
Bella, a student in Bexley, recently assisted the waste & recycling team with a video to explain to everyone how easy it is to recycle food waste in our borough. She also gave her top tips for reducing how much food waste we create in the Borough and how this can save you money. You can watch the video at www.bexley.gov.uk/whatgoes-my-food-waste-box
Over 30% of the rubbish in our green non-recyclable household bins is food waste that could have been recycled or reused. Food recycling is collected weekly in our Borough with free food boxes available for all residents.
These can be requested at www.bexley.gov.uk/foodboxes
Local businesses and organisations are reminded of their new responsibilities as changes to waste and recycling legislation come in from 31 March 2025.
‘Simpler Recycling in England’ is the new set of regulations designed to make recycling easier, by standardising recycling and waste collection systems nationwide.
In Bexley there are no immediate changes for residents as we already meet the required waste and recycling collections to households and have been collecting separate food, paper plus glass and plastics recycling for many years.
But businesses and other nonhousehold municipal premises (e.g. schools, hospitals, village halls, churches etc) with 10 or more full-
time employees will need to have separate collections for glass (bottles and jars), metal (tins, cans, foil etc.), plastic, paper and cardboard, and for food waste. These items will no longer be accepted when mixed in one general waste bin or bag.
The changes could be a great way for local businesses to save some
Emoney, with both recycling and food waste collections available via the Councils business recycling collection services.
Find out more at www.bexley.gov.uk/simpler-recycling
very month we collect over 1 million bins in Bexley with 99.88% of these successfully completed, a figure well above average and a significant improvement on collection levels since 2021 when Countrystyle were first contracted to deliver the service.
Improvements include new processes to enable problems such as missed bins to be tackled more quickly and better contract management arrangements that have improved partnership working between the Council and its contractor and increased efficiency levels.
We’ve also improved the online waste management system and residents can now find out real time
information on their services and report missed bin collections more easily.
The new look up online tool is available at https://waste.bexley.gov.uk
Good Mental Health Event
Bexley hosted a Good Mental Health event in January, in partnership with Mind in Bexley, Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, Reinstate, and Bexley Mencap. Inspired by Bexley’s Learning Disability Partnership Board, the event welcomed 130 attendees.
Workshops covered wellbeing at work, relaxation techniques, healthy living and art and music therapy. Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services and Health, Cllr Melvin Seymour attended the event.
“This event demonstrated the power of collaboration and creativity in promoting mental health for everyone. It’s heartening to see so many people come together to learn, share and support one another.”
The video about the day produced by Bexley Mencap is available online at https://vimeo.com/1048646222
We have redesigned our Adult Social Care pages to make it easier for you to find the help and support you need. The Your Life, Your Choice website was created with input from local residents, charities and Adult Social Care staff to ensure it is clear, useful and accessible to
Whether you are looking for care services, local support, or ways to stay active in the community visit www.bexley.gov.uk/adultsocialcare
A day in the life of a Bexley OT
About me
I’m Ayesha. I’ve been an Occupational Therapist (OT) for over 21 years. I currently specialise in moving and handling within Adult Social Care.
My job is about helping people with mobility challenges stay independent.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy helps people live their lives to the fullest. That could be getting out of bed, making a meal, going to work, or simply moving around the house, we provide the support and tools needed to make everyday activities possible.
In Adult Social Care, our focus is on long-term independence, supporting individuals from 18 to over 100 years old.
Making a difference in Bexley
In Bexley, our teams—including Triage, Specialist Moving and Handling, Reablement and Community Support—work
together to help people stay as independent as possible.
Sometimes, a small change, like adding rails to a toilet, can make a huge difference. Other times, we introduce more specialist equipment, like hoists, to help clients move safely and maintain their dignity.
Part of my role is looking ahead. I assess not just a client’s current mobility but how it may change over time.
Teamwork makes it happen
Even though I spend a lot of time working independently, teamwork is key. I regularly collaborate with social workers, physiotherapists and care agencies to find the best solutions for clients.
An example was a recent case involving a client recovering from a stroke who was struggling with mobility and was unhappy with the hoist he had been using. Working with a physiotherapist, we trialled a new standing hoist designed for rehabilitation. It provided better support, reduced strain on his carers and—most importantly— helped him feel more in control.
Seeing how much of a difference it made to his confidence and comfort was incredibly rewarding.
Why I love being an OT
Every day in this job is different and that is what makes it so exciting. I love solving problems, thinking creatively and knowing that the work I do helps people maintain their dignity and independence. I am grateful to be part of such a supportive team in Bexley and I look forward to continuing to make a difference in people’s lives.
Look out for Occupational Therapist vacancies in Bexley at www.bexley.gov.uk/aboutcouncil/jobs-and-careers
Transfer and foster for Bexley
If you’re a foster carer who may be thinking about transferring over to another organisation, we offer a welcoming and supportive environment through our Fostering Together initiative.
Bexley’s Fostering Together program is designed to make fostering easier, more rewarding and focused on the well-being of both carers and children, with a seamless transfer process.
Benefits of transferring to Bexley:
• Fostering Together Communities: Bexley has created seven closeknit fostering communities. These communities act like an extended family, providing a supportive environment for children while reducing the paperwork and stress for carers.
• Tailored Support: Bexley Foster Carers have access to experienced foster carers who offer one-on-one mentorship, practical advice, and extra support, whether it’s helping with day-to-day tasks or providing respite care.
• Specialist Communities: Bexley has launched a specialist community for children under seven. We are also looking for experienced carers to help
develop more communities, focusing on teenagers, parent and child and emergency placements.
• Carer Well-being: Fostering Together helps reduce isolation by connecting carers with a strong support network, improving their well-being and making them feel valued. This leads to happier carers and more stable placements for children.
• Support for New Carers: New foster carers join our communities where they are guided through the early stages of fostering. This peer support helps build confidence and eases the transition into fostering.
• Proven Results: Since the launch of Fostering Together, Bexley has seen improved placement stability and higher retention rates among foster carers.
To discuss transferring to Bexley, give the team a call on 020 3045 4400 or email fostering@bexley.gov.uk
“Transferring from a fostering agency to fostering with Bexley was the best decision we ever made - we only wish we’d done it sooner! The support, training and sense of community has been incredible.”
Ana and Mark
“We want to encourage other foster carers to think about transferring to Bexley. The support here is fantastic, and it feels amazing to be part of a team that truly invests in local children. Making the move has not only benefited us but also the children we care for.” Dahlia and Remington
Apprenticeship event success
Bexley’s annual Apprenticeship & Participation Event was a huge success, welcoming over 800 young people and parents eager to explore career opportunities.
Held at the Civic Offices in Bexleyheath, the event connected attendees including employers, colleges, training providers, universities and support organisations showcasing the diverse pathways apprenticeships offer—from hands-on trades to professional qualifications.
Cllr Caroline Newton, Cabinet Member for Education, praised the event’s impact, saying:
“It was fantastic to see so many young people engaging with employers and training providers. Events like this open doors and help shape futures.”
For more on apprenticeships in Bexley visit: www.bexley.gov. uk/apprenticeships
Thamesmead to Host London’s Largest Free Sculpture Park
1 March for 8 weeks
Explore a colossal outdoor exhibition of amazing art works
As well as showcasing Bexley’s vibrant cultural scene, #CelebratingBexley highlights our green spaces, waterways and outdoor venues with events set in locations like Danson Park, Lesnes Abbey Woods and by the river Thames.
This year offers us all the chance to get to know Bexley’s rich cultural and creative scene like never before. #CelebratingBexley is an exciting festival spanning 2025 - the year of Danson Park’s centenary, Crossness Pumping Station’s 160th anniversary, the borough’s own 60th birthday and the 500th anniversary of Lesnes Abbey’s closure.
The programme brings a vibrant mix of music, performing arts, exhibitions, crafts and more, with events spread across Bexley, showcasing the diverse arts, cultural and heritage organisations that make the borough special. From indoor exhibitions to outdoor performances, these events will shine a spotlight on the people and places that shape Bexley’s unique identity.
Go to our What’s On section in this magazine for many of the events on offer.
Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/celebratingbexley for full details on the events throughout the year, and how you can get involved - or follow our social media channels for the latest news.
MUSIC DANCE FOOD HERITAGE
ENTRY
Here Comes the Sun, The Exchange, Erith 25-27 April
Get ready for our fourth annual Spring Craft and Beer Festival organised with our friends at Bexley Brewery. Craft workshops, guided garden tours, plant propagation and live music.
Bexley is one of London and the South-East’s best-kept secrets, with an incredible range of cultural treasures and stunning green spaces. It’s a place where creativity thrives, home to worldclass theatre training and a growing hub for digital talent. #CelebratingBexley is a perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to explore the borough’s creative potential
ARTS CRAFTS DANCE THEATRE FOOD AND DRINK
Councillor Cafer Munur, Cabinet Member for Place Shaping
Local residents and visitors can engage with a wide range of hands-on activities, from craft workshops to historical tours of Bexley’s iconic landmarks. There’s something for everyone, making 2025 the perfect time to explore and discover Bexley’s hidden gems.
HERITAGE FESTIVALS
#CelebratingBexley offers many opportunities for you, your friends and family to get involved. From collaborative art projects to volunteer-led performances, everyone can contribute to making this year-long celebration a true reflection of Bexley’s diverse and vibrant community.
#CelebratingBexley showcases our creative individuals and industries, highlighting local talent and fostering new opportunities for collaboration. The festival offers a platform for emerging artists, musicians and performers to share their work, as well as workshops designed to nurture the next generation of creatives.
Celebrating Crossness
5-6 April
Crossness is celebrating this special anniversary with a Steaming Weekend. Enjoy live music from the 1865 opening, Victorian cooking demos and a pop-up bar from Bexley Brewery.
To get involved in #CelebratingBexley and stay up to date with the latest events, visit the council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk/celebratingbexley Whether you’re looking to list your own event or participate in one, there are plenty of opportunities for everyone. For real-time updates, be sure to follow us on social media
www.bexley.gov.uk/celebratingbexley
Town Centres
A focus on Bexley Village
Bexley Village is home to a variety of independent shops and locally run businesses. It’s a great place for a relaxed stroll, taking in the friendly atmosphere and historic charm.
With a number of pubs and restaurants it is also the ideal place to meet up with friends and socialise for either a quick lunch or a relaxed evening meal.
Just a short walk away, Hall Place is a must-visit. Built in 1537, this Grade I listed country house is a rare example of Tudor architecture. Many of its original features remain, including the striking checkerboard
stonework, the redbrick courtyard, and the spectacular plaster ceiling in the Great Chamber. The surrounding gardens are free to visit, making it a great spot for a peaceful walk.
From exploring the village and enjoying a meal to discovering the history of Hall Place, Bexley Village offers a great mix of local shops and hospitality.
www.bexley.gov.uk/ discover-bexley/high-streetsand-town-centres
Hold on to your mobile
Mobile phone theft is a common crime in the UK, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your device.
Tips on how to keep your phone safe -
• Avoid using your phone in public places. If you must use it, be aware of who is around you.
• Avoid using your phone while walking, especially in crowded areas. This makes you an easy target for thieves.
• Be especially careful in busy areas like train stations, shopping centres and pubs. These are places where thieves often operate.
• Use a strong PIN or passcode to lock your phone. This will make it more difficult for thieves to access your data if they steal your phone.
• Enable biometric authentication if your phone has it. This will allow you to unlock your phone with your finger or thumb print or face recognition, making it more secure.
• Install a tracking app on your phone. This will allow you to locate your phone if it is lost or stolen.
• Back up your data regularly. This will make sure that you don’t lose important information if your phone is stolen.
Find out more about the Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association VisIt www.bexleywatch.org.uk Call - 07496 385471
Email bexwatch-office@btconnect. com
Local Safer Neighbourhood Teams
Bexley Local Safer Neighbourhood Teams are local policing teams who are working closely with local authorities, community leaders and residents to learn more about concerns and priorities of local people –and to find long-term solutions to problems.
Find your team www.met. police.uk/a/your-area/
Getting physical to improve our mental health
In today’s fast-paced world, taking care of mental health has become more crucial than ever. One effective and accessible way to improve mental wellbeing is through physical activity.
It can help reduce stress, improve sleep, boost selfesteem and reduce isolation. Over the coming months we will be working with a range of partners to develop new opportunities.
Please keep an eye out for opportunities to get involved with Head in the Game, Charlton Athletic Community Trust and Age UK Bexley.
www.bexley.gov.uk/ mental-wellbeing-physicalactivity
It’s good to talk
In 2023 Bexley’s Public Health Team worked in partnership with Mind in Bexley to develop a new approach to supporting men’s mental health.
With research showing that men are statistically more likely to discuss mental health issues with their barber than with their GP, local barbers were trained to support their customers and spot signs of anxiety and depression and signpost them to sources of support.
Following its success, the Wellbeing Ambassador programme has now expanded to include support for women by involving nail salons, women’s hairdressers and tattoo parlours as well as increasing the number of barbershops.
Local hairdressers, nail bars and tattoo parlours can join the project as Wellbeing Ambassadors.
https://bit.ly/MindinBexley
Suicide Bereavement Service
The South East London Suicide Bereavement Service supports people in the aftermath of suicide across the boroughs of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark. The Service is for people who have lost someone to suicide or have witnessed a suicide. They support people who live or are registered with a GP in
one of the six boroughs. The service is available for all ages, including children and young people.
To find out more or to access this service, please visit the Mind in Bexley Suicide Bereavement Service webpage at: mindinbexley.org.uk/ suicide-bereavement-service
Your wonderful Bexley libraries
Alongside the traditional offer of books, there’s so much more to our libraries!
l Events – We have regular events and activities for everyone! From Toddlertime to Lego Clubs, Reading Groups and Coffee and Chat clubs. Keep an eye out for our additional one-off events throughout the year.
l Digital library – You can access lots of our digital services for free 24/7 from the comfort of your own home. Choose from over 9,500 eBooks and eAudiobooks as well as 7,000 digital newspapers and magazines from around the world and 300 UK magazines.
l HLS – The Home Library Service is for any Bexley resident who cannot use their local library. Volunteers visit monthly with a new selection of books or audible books.
l Volunteering – From helping staff to deliver the housebound library service to leading activities or sharing your skills.
Did you know?
Bexley Libraries have 231,014 bookslaid side-by-side this would stretch for over 50km!
meeting rooms perfect for business meetings, exercise classes, training, tutoring, community activities and more. Crayford Community Centre (part of Crayford Library) is ideal for business functions, children’s parties and exercise classes. Join today for FREE www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-libraries
l IT – We offer free use of PC’s, scanners and free Wi-Fi. Printing services are also available at a small charge.
l Meeting rooms There are eight
Join Team Bexley
Working for your local council offers a unique opportunity to improve the lives of residents while building a rewarding career.
We’re committed to delivering high-quality services and supporting the needs of our diverse residents. From education and health to housing and sustainability, we play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of those who live and work in Bexley.
No matter your rolewhether in social care, environmental services, planning or customer service - you play a vital part in
supporting your community and shaping the future of our borough. We offer diverse career opportunities that match your skills and interests, allowing you to make a meaningful impact right where you live.
We believe in creating an inclusive, supportive environment where all employees are valued. We offer competitive salaries, ongoing professional development and a chance to be part of an organisation that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the community.
www.bexley.gov.uk/about-council/jobs-and-careers
Keep up to date with the latest book news and library highlights by signing up to the library newsletters.
Ever thought about becoming a Bexley Shared Lives Carer?
Our lives get better when they’re shared
A Shared Lives carer shares their home, family and community life with a person over 18 who requires care and support. It provides an opportunity to see the amazing difference you can make to a person’s life whilst providing the ultimate ‘work from home’ opportunity.
The Shared Lives scheme supports adults with care and support needs which may make it difficult for them to live on their own. Shared lives matches carers and people requiring support based on shared interests and lifestyles. It feels like an ordinary life for someone who needs
support – and doesn’t feel like a ‘job’ for you!
We are looking for Shared Lives carers who can provide a wide range of care and support, as the people the scheme supports have many different needs.
We offer competitive rates of pay, full support, training and access to the network of Shared Lives carers, so you are not alone.
Our Shared Lives carers come from all walks of life and choose to care for a wide variety of
reasons. Formal experience of caring is less important than enthusiasm, motivation and commitment.
Find out more about the scheme by emailing us at: shared-lives@ bexley.gov.uk or call us for an informal chat on 020 3045 4185
6
Croquet
There are a huge range of sporting clubs and activities in Bexley with everything from Canoe Polo and Horse Riding to Fencing and Skateboarding. The choices are endless. Here are a few less well-known sports that are fast becoming popular.
Bexley Croquet Club are based behind Crayford Manor House. They play a version known as ‘Golf Croquet’ that can be fun and quite fast. The season runs from April to September – subject to the weather. Members pay just
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£5 to play and all equipment is provided. Find out more visit www. bexleycroquet.org.uk email J.Baker864@btinternet.com or call 01322 525975
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Walking ball sports
Walking Netball takes place at Erith Leisure Centre Tuesday – 8-9.30pm and Thursday – 10-11.30am. Rachael.purchase@englandnetball.co.uk
Walking Football sessions take place at Crook Log Leisure Centre on Tuesday 1-2pm www.leisurecentre.com/crook-log-leisure-centre
Padel
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Padel is a racquet sport that is similar to tennis but is played on smaller courts. The game is mainly played in the doubles format, with players using solid racquets that have no strings. The courts are enclosed and like in squash, players can bounce the ball off the walls. Groups of mixed ages and abilities can play together. Find out more here www.bexleyclub.co.uk/padel
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Or for other venues visit www.erithtown.com/walking-football or www.goalsfootball.co.uk
Walking Rugby visit www.bexleyrugby.co.uk/join/walking Sessions take place at Bexley Rugby Club - Tuesday 7.30-8.30pm
Orienteering
Orienteering is an exciting outdoor adventure sport which involves navigating around a course using a detailed map and sometimes a compass. It doesn’t matter how young, old or fit you are - you can run, walk or jog round the course at your own pace. There are several park locations in Bexley which have permanent orienteering courses set up. Visit https:// www.dfok.co.uk/anytime/ to download a map or you can use the MapRun app from your smartphone appstore
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Indoor bouldering
Indoor bouldering is a type of rock climbing done on specially designed shorter walls, where climbers tackle routes without using ropes or harnesses. It’s fun, great for fitness and develops problem-solving skills! There is a small bouldering room at Danson Park Adventures. Contact watersports@bexley. gov.uk for more details.
If you would like your activity included online visit www.bexley.gov.uk/sports and click on ‘Get active in Bexley’
Pickleball
Pickleball brings together some of the best elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, into a fun game for people of all ages and abilities. You can play at Bexley Lawn Tennis, Squash and Racketball Club www.bexleyclub.co.uk/ pickleball and two new courts are due to open at Sidcup Place in the Spring. Bexley recently hosted the first UK Deaf Pickleball Festival. The event brought over 50 deaf people from all over the UK and was organised by James Townsend, who is the current World Deaf Pickleball Champion and founder of Deaf Pickleball England. The Bexley Deaf Pickleball sessions were funded by the Bexley Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) and set up by the Bexley Deaf Centre. Find out more www. bexleydeafcentre.com/contact
All our yesterdays
160 years of Crossness Pumping Station
The Crossness Southern Outfall Works on Erith Marshes were officially opened by the Prince of Wales - later Edward VIIon 4 April 1865.
The Works formed one part of a system of sewers across London created by the Metropolitan Board of Works under its chief engineer, Joseph Bazalgette. Constructed by William Webster, Crossness Pumping Station represented an extraordinary feat of public health engineering. Containing the four largest rotative beam engines ever constructed at the time, the building itself was in a Victorian Romanesque style with a 200ft high chimney.
At the grand opening 500 dignitaries including the Prime Minister and two archbishops were astonished by the striking cathedral-like interior of elegantly decorated iron columns.
The Prince of Wales switched on the engines and 66 miles of sewers started operating. The guests were
treated to a buffet in the fitting shop which had been transformed into a banqueting hall. Outside the guests admired the meticulously tended gardens, school, cricket pitch and 33 workers’ cottages.
Crossness played a vital role in improving sanitation in London. The beam engines fell out of use in 1953 and a working group was established in 1985 with the aim of restoring the buildings and engines to their former condition. Volunteers of the Crossness Engines Trust continue the work to this day.
Grade I listed Crossness is an important industrial heritage site both nationally and locally. It is open to visitors on Steaming Days or by Guided Tour. Visit www.crossness.org.uk for more information.
East Wickham & Welling War Memorials
Our colleagues at the East Wickham & Welling War Memorial Trust have been in touch to tell us about their Second World War research.
Just as they did for the First World War, they are now working on a project to unearth the stories behind 180 names on the Welling War Memorial in the grounds of St John’s Church, Danson Lane and two memorial tablets in St Michael’s Church, East Wickham which include civilians as well as those killed in service 1939-45. The names are listed at www.ewt.org.uk/wwii-memorial
If anyone has family connections to these names or can provide more information or photographs, please get in touch with the Trust – you can find their contact details at www.ewt.org.uk
Keep in touch
Subscribe to the Archives Highlights newsletter to hear about our programme of talks and walks during 2025. Sign up for email updates at www.bexley. gov.uk/news or visit us at the Local Studies Centre at Central Library to pick up an events programme.
Crossness Southern Outfall Works under construction, 1864
Crossness Pumping Station, 1970
Crossness Southern Outfall Works
Crossness Pumping Station today
Remembrance service at Welling War Memorial, 1955
Council meetings
These meetings will be webcast and available at www.bexley.public-i.tv
A full calendar of meetings is published on the Council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk/meetings
Reports and information on each of the Committees, including membership, are also available online.
1 April 7.30pm – Cabinet
24 April 7pm – Planning Committee
30 April 7.30pm – Council
21 May 7.30pm – Council
22 May 7pm – Planning
YOUR COUNCILLORS
The London Borough of Bexley is divided into 17 wards and has 45 councillors.
To find out which ward you live in, or for up-to-date
LOCAL MPS
Daniel Francis, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford
To contact Daniel Francis MP
write to:
House of Commons, Westminster London SW1A 0AA
Telephone 020 7219 3000
Email daniel.francis.mp@ parliament.uk
Louie French, MP for Old Bexley & Sidcup
To contact Louie French MP write to:
House of Commons, Westminster
London SW1A 0AA
Telephone 020 7219 5446
Email louie.french.mp@ parliament.uk www.louiefrench.org.uk
details of how to contact your local Councillors or members of the Council’s Cabinet, please visit www.bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777
Any surgery requests should be emailed to louie.french. mp@parliament.uk including your name, full address and details of the issue you would like to raise.
Abena Oppong Asare, MP for Thamesmead and Erith
To contact Abena Oppong Asare MP write to: House of Commons, Westminister London SW1A 0AA
Telephone - 020 7219 3000
Email: abena.oppongasare. mp@parliament.uk
London Assembly Member Thomas Turrell (Bexley and Bromley)
E-mail: Thomas.turrell@ london.gov.uk
Telephone - 07565 620 952
You can now search for the names of your local Ward Councillors on the Council’s website using your home post code. Visit www.bexley. gov.uk/councillors
Using Direct Debit makes sure your Council Tax is always paid on time.
You can spread the cost over the whole year and you can choose to pay on the 1st, 15th or 25th day of the month - whichever works best for you.
You can set up a direct debit at
www.bexley.gov.uk/ council-tax
What’s on! MARCH - July
Regular Events
Library activities
Our libraries regularly offer a range of activities. www.bexley. gov.uk/bexley-libraries
Age UK Walking Group
10am to 12pm, every Tuesday
Danson Park DA6 8HL
Meet new people and keep active at the same time. Free to attend. www.ageuk.org.uk/bexley
Bexley Country Market
9.30 to 12pm, every Friday
Freemantle Hall, Bexley High Street, Bexley Village DA5 1AA Free entry. Stalls selling local honey, meat, eggs, plants and different craft produce.
Age UK Cycling Club
Various times, every Friday
Weekly social group rides for over 50s. All riders must be registered before attending. Free to attend.
www.ageuk.org.uk/bexley
The Hub
7pm to 9pm, Fridays Fortnightly
Blackfen Community Library, 7-9 Blackfen Road, Sidcup DA15 9LU
Free. Drop in Youth Café for 11 to 16s. www.blackfen communitylibrary.org
Messy Church
2pm to 3pm
Second Saturday each month
Blackfen Community Library, 7-9 Blackfen Road, Sidcup DA15 9LU
Free. Children aged 3 to 11. Stories, craft, games, singing, fun, food and faith. www. blackfencommunitylibrary.org
Leisure Centres
www.leisurecentre.com
Leisure Centre
Crash Courses
Various times during school holidays
Erith, Sidcup and Crook Log Leisure Centres
£83.50 Our week-long intensive swimming courses follow our Swim England learn to swim programme to ensure your kids swim safer, smarter and stronger. 4-14 years
1-2-1 Intensive
Swimming Courses
Various times during school holidays
Crook Log Leisure Centre
£127.20. Swimming Courses consist of 5 consecutive, 25 minutes Swimming Lessons. 4-14 years
Promo Soft Play Sessions
Monday - Friday 9am – 12noon
Erith Leisure Centre
£2 per child. Bring your child/ ren to our designated soft play facility. Weekday morning promo price! Up to 11 years
Rookie Lifeguard
Weekly
Sidcup Leisure Centre,
£34 per month
Rookie Lifeguard will introduce different types of rescue techniques, first aid and build on existing swimming skills. It can also be the first step to becoming a lifeguard or a swimming teacher. 7-14 Years
X-Treme Air
17 and 20 April (also on every weekend)
Crook Log Leisure Centre
£8 per child & £2 per adult
Hosted inside the Leisure Centre, X-Treme Air has over 325 square metres of obstacles and fun activities.
Stay and Play Tots
17 and 20 April (also on every Sunday)
Crook Log Leisure Centre
£5 per child & £2 per adult
For ages 0 - 4 years - Session includes Bouncy Castle, Inflatable Ball Pond, Soft Play Shapes, Trikes and Bikes and More. 0-4 Years
Water Wonderland
19 April, 31 May, 5 July & 26 July
Sidcup Leisure Centre
£6.07 Adult, £4.37 Child
Free under 4. Enjoy fun, games and music in the pool with Water Wonderland! All ages
Nurses Day
6 May 2025
Crook Log, Erith, Sidcup Leisure Centres. Free. To encourage anyone who is a nurse into the Centres to experience a variety of activities at no charge or discounted rates - Proof of ID required
Swim, Bike, Run Mini Triathlon
17 May - Children – 6pm
Adults - 7:30pm
Erith Leisure Centre
Family - £30, Adults (15+)£20, Children (6+) - £10. 6+ years www.britishtriathlon.org/events
Events at Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ www.hallplace.org.uk
Hall Place Farmers Market 10am – 2pm, on the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month,
Meet the farmers and producers, try food samples and buy everything from homegrown fruit and vegetables to delicious cakes, breads and cheeses. Free
House Tours
Various dates - check website. Tickets £9. Hall Place historic house is open for visitors to discover its exciting and colourful history first hand on a booked guided tour. If you join a pre-booked and ticketed tour, our guides will take you around our popular Grade I listed country house.
The London Butterfly Gardens
Open 7 days a week, March 10am – 4pm, April onwards 10am – 5pm
£8.50 adults, £7.50 children, under 5’s £3 (Pre-book online discount: £7.50 adults, £6.50 children, under 5s £2.50) www. londonbutterflygardens.co.uk
An insight into the fascinating way of life of these amazing insects. Tickets are valid for the whole day so you can pop in and out as required.
Jambs Owls
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (including bank holidays), March 10am – 4pm, April onwards 10am – 5pm. Also open on Wednesdays and Thursdays during Bexley school holidays
£4 adults, £3 children. No booking required
Visit our very own parliament of owls. Hear about how owls survive in the wild, what they like to eat and their nocturnal habits.
Miniature Steam Railway
Sundays from 30 March, 12:30pm – 4pm
£1.25 per person, per ride, just turn up and pay on the day. Run by members of the Welling & District Model Engineering Society.
Mother’s Day
Afternoon Tea
30 March, 12-2:30pm
£45 per head
Spoil your Mum with a special afternoon tea at Hall Place.
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, cake, scones, jam and cream, with a live singer performing all the best in Rat Pack and Swing tunes. To book tickets call Relish on 01322 221159 or email info@relish.co.uk
Advance booking required.
Easter Garden Trail
5-27 April 2025 10am-4pm. Take an adventure with Alice & White Rabbit in Wonderland Trails cost £3 each. Includes small prize. Full info
60s Night
Saturday 3 May 2025
Live music from The Revolvers & our resident DJ bringing you all the best 60’s hits!!
Doors open at 7pm
Best 60’s costume wins a prize! £32.50pp including a cheeseburger or New York Hot Dog
To book tickets call Relish on 01322 221159 or email info@relish.co.uk
Advance booking required.
Courtyard Soul IV
Sunday 1 June 2025
2 – 7pm: An afternoon of memory joggers and the best in jazz, soul and funk from our favourite DJ. £17.50to include a BBQ burger
To book tickets call Relish on 01322 221159 or email info@relish.co.uk
Advance booking required.
Events at Crossness
Pumping Station
Bazalgette Way, London SE2 9AQ www.crossness.org.uk
Crossness Engines
Steaming Weekend
4-6 April
Stay informed about the topics you choose. Keep up to date with news and events from the Council and our partners. www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates
With history, engineering demos, tours, exhibitions, and more.
Crossness Steaming Day:
5 and 6 April, 18 May, 22 June, 20 July, 10am – 4pm
Ticket Cost: Adult £22.50; Child: £8; Family tickets: £29.99 - £49.99
Visit this marvel of Victorian engineering and architecture and see the magnificent beam engine in steam. There is a free ‘make and take’ craft activity for children and an activity trail. We will be running a vintage Routemaster shuttle bus from Abbey Wood station.
Crossness Sewage Treatment Works - come and meet the team
24 April - 3-7pm
Meet the team managing the treatment works and explore Victorian London’s sanitation history. Email trudy.earl@ thameswater.co.uk
Southern Outfall by artist Mhairi Vari at Crossness
3 May, 10am – 4pm
Adult £22.50; Child: £8; Family tickets: £29.99 - £49.99
Explore Crossness and experience this site-specific contemporary art installation occupying the spaces in and around Crossness: our listed buildings, engineering and people. The vintage Routemaster shuttle bus will be running from Abbey Wood Station.
Events at Danson House
Danson Park DA6 8HL events@ccevents.com
Danson House Producers Market 10am to 3pm, fourth Sunday of the month www.facebook.com/ dansonhouseproducersmarket www.theproducersmarkets.co.uk
Danson House Easter Fayre
Saturday 12 April, 11-4pm
Free for everyone of all ages Easter Fayre, Tombolas, have a go stalls, Entertainment with the Dizzy Lolly show and much more! Lots of stalls, community stalls, facepainting and food.
Danson House Summer in the Park 22 June - 10-5pm
All ages. Free entry. Familyfriendly day of music, performances and free activities. The Producers Market features fresh produce, cheeses, craft ales, and more, along with delicious gourmet hotdogs, Bao Buns and crepes!
Danson House Street Food Evening 5 July, 5-9pm
For everyone of all ages
Free entry. Live music and street food including stone baked pizzas, Gourmet Burgers and Hot Dogs, Tacos, Jerk Chicken, Indian Cuisine, Desserts and handmade cakes, Crepes, Spiked Coffees, Prosecco, Local Gin bar and more!
Events at Danson Park
Adventures Watersports
Danson Park DA6 8HL Watersports@bexley.gov.uk
Open Day
13 April, 10-4pm
Try sailing and kayaking with free short taster sessions available throughout the day. All ages
Easter School Holiday
Water Sports Activities
Easter holidays
Danson Park Adventures, Danson Park . £20-£48
Various watersports activities available. Full day to 2 hours session available . Ages 8 - 16
Adult kayaking and paddleboarding classes
May–August, 6:30-8:30pm, Every Monday (excludes BH)
£20. Learn to kayak or paddleboard, if you already can paddle just take to the lake to practice and relax. Ages 18 +
May Half Term
Watersports Activities
27-30 May
£20-£48. Various Watersports activities available, full day to 2 hours session available Ages 8 - 16 .
Danson Lake litter pickpart of the National Big Paddle Clean Up
3 June, 6:30pm-8pm
Volunteer to go afloat to help clean litter from Danson Lake, protect wildlife and help keep our lake beautiful. Booking required. Ages 18 +
Events at Lesnes Abbey
Lesnes Abbey, Abbey Road SE2 0AX www.lesnesabbeywoods.org
Lesnes Abbey Farmers Market 10am to 3pm, every second Sunday of the month www.facebook.com/ LesnesAbbeyFarmersMarket www.theproducersmarkets.co.uk
Lesnes Abbey
Easter Festival
Saturday 19 April 11-4pm
Free entry. Easter Stalls and Street Food marketplace, games, dance workshops, arts and crafts, plus a visit from the Easter Bunny himself and an Easter Bonnet Competition and parade.events@cceventsuk.com
Lesnes Abbey Twilights
Friday 20 June and 18 July 5pm to 9pm
Tickets via our website. The beautiful backdrop of Lesnes Abbey hosts two Twilights this year, hosting Razmataz and The Cygnet Committee, alongside a great selection of street food and a pay bar.
Children’s University Family Fun Day 13 July, 10am-3pm Lesnes Abbey
Come along to our FREE Family Fun Day! Inflatables, have-a-go stalls and lots of family fun.
Winter Sculpture
Park 2025
1 March – 26 April
Old Thamesmead Gold Centre, near Fairway Drive. Free. Thamesmead will be home to London’s largest free sculpture park as part of the former golf course is transformed into a huge open-air exhibition space. The golf course will hold more than 30 artworks by contemporary artists from Thamesmead, South East London and further afield. www.thamesmeadnow.org.uk/ whats-on/arts-culture/wintersculpture-park-grand-opening/
All events listed were correct at time of printing. Check with event venue for more details.
A Night at The Musicals
22 March, 7-9pm
Erith Playhouse. £20
A Fundraising Concert full of well known and loved songs from the Musicals for Theatre Box Performing Arts Academy: Featuring Stars of The West End and The Theatre Box Choir! Email jade@theatreboxacademy.co.uk
Litter picks – Great British Spring Clean
27 March – 6 April
Bexley Parks
Community litter picks in local parks.
To register your interest and find out more information visit website
Children allowed if they are part of a family litter pick www.bexleyecofest.co.uk
Easter Eco Family Fair
5 April, 11-3pm
Geddes Place united reformed church, Geddes place, Bexleyheath, DA6 7DJ
Free
Free Easter fair, Free easter egg hunt and lots of activities for the family. www.bexleyecofest.co.uk
Easter Fair
11 April 2025, 9.30-12pm
Freemantle Hall, 51-57
Bexley High Street DA5 1AA Easter focus, with tombola in aid of Greenwich and Bexley Hospice. Local produce and craft etc.
Here Comes the Sun Festival
25-27 April
The Exchange
Local live music, craft beer & more from the Bexley Brewery pop-up bar, delicious food & community crafts – best of all it’s free entry! . For details on this and other events visit www.theexchangeerith.com/ whats-on
Riverside Gardens
Opening Party
26 April, 11-3pm
No.68 Erith
Opening celebrations of No.68 and the Erith Riverside Gardens. There will be Bouncy Castle; Face painting; book stall; Food from The Exchange
What’s on (continued)
Belvedere Concert Band Spring Concert
26 April 2025, 7:30pm Christ Church, Bexleyheath, DA6 7BT
£14 adult, £7 child. Featuring music by North and South American composers, including John Williams, Bernstein, Arturo Marquez, Copland and Eric Whitacre. www. belvedereconcertband.co.uk/ upcoming-concerts
Happy Birthday to Welling Station
1 May 2025 all day
Welling Station, Station Approach, Welling DA16 3DN As part of Railway 200, we wish happy 130th birthday to Welling Station. Activities going on throughout the day Age group/restrictionssuitable for all ages. www.discoverwelling.co.uk/ wellingstation
VE Day Service
Thursday 8 May - 9am
Civic Offices, Bexleyheath
A short service including a reading of the VE Day proclamation and the raising of the VE Day flag.
CAMRA Bexley
Beer festival
8 May - 2pm –11 pm
9 May - 11am—11pm
10 May - 11am—8pm
Dartfordians Community Sports Club, War Memorial Club House, Bourne Road, DA5 1LW.
CAMRA members and under 26s (with proof of ID) get in free, others £3. Pay on the day. Annual event staffed and run by volunteers. https://bexley.camra.org.uk/ beer_festival.html
Leave it out day
8 June 2025
Welling , 10am - 5pm
Leave your unwanted stuff out on your drive, clearly marked
www.bexley.gov.uk
Useful Council numbers
Automated payments – 020 3045 5200
Adoption and Fostering - 0800 783 7699
Bexley Local Offer - Special Educational Needs and Disability Support for 0-25 year olds - 020 3045 5677
Bexley Magazine - 020 8303 7777 and ask for Communications
Births, deaths and marriages - 03000 415252 registerofficebexley@kent.gov.uk
Council Tax & Housing Benefits – 0345 302 2317
Emergency Out of Hours Service - 020 8303 7777 / 020 8303 7171
Home Librar y Service – 020 3045 4565
Housing advice - 020 3045 3400
Temporary Accommodation – 020 3045 3155/ 020 3045 3156
Parking Services - 020 3045 3000
Adults Social Services - Residential care – 020 3045 5159
between 10am and 5pm and people can help themselves. www.discoverwelling.co.uk/ leave-it-out-day/ Skate Jam! and Silent Disco 18-May-15-June-27-July 4-8pm
Cygnet Square, Thamesmead, SE2 9FA
For everyone of all ages. Free entry. This event is all about embracing new experiences, learning fresh skills, and enjoying the rhythm on wheels. www.artstrust.co.uk/events/ skatejam
LECB Open Day
Saturday 28 June 10am – 3pm www.lecb.ac.uk
Strawberry Day 13 June, 9.30-12pm Freemantle Hall, 51-57 Bexley High Street DA51AA Focussing on local strawberries and raffle, celebrating the summer
Cream
Fringe Festival
5 July, 10-5pm
Rose Bruford College, Burnt Oak Lane, Sidcup DA15 9DF Stalls, entertainment, food, drink and more. www.sidcuppartners.co.uk
Council news via email newsletters at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates Register to vote at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
How do I?
Contact the police when it is not an emergency on 101 or 0300 123 1212
Report a gas leak - 0800 111 999
Get health advice and reassurance -111 www.111.nhs.uk
Report a leak or burst pipe to Thames Water - 0800 714 614 (24 hour leakline) or #tweetaleak to @thameswater
Other useful contacts
Domestic or sexual abuse – Solace in Bexley 0808 802 5565
Job centre Plus – 0800 169 0190
Bexley Business Employment Support - 020 3045 3800
Citizens Advice Bexley – 0808 2505 709 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm)
Age UK Bexley – 020 8300 0883
For other enquires call 0800 169 8787
Bexley Voluntary Service Council – 01322 524682
Bexley Foodbank - 0808 208 2138 and 07385 921627
For all other Council services please call our automated switchboard on 020 8303 7777 to request the department you require
local organisations
Academy Photographic Group
07976 760488
Academy - United Judo Bexleyheath www.unitedjudo.com
Access Sport www.accesssport.org.uk
bmx@accesssport.co.uk
020 7993 9883
Active Horizons Youth
07833 477651/020 8310 5481
Artlab Tutored Art Sessions - Sidcup www.sandiecamilleri.wixsite.com/artlab 07931 824110
Age UK Bexley - 020 8300 0883
Air Training Corps (Youth)
Welling Sqdn - 020 8303 7379
Bexleyheath Sqdn - 01322 559056
Sidcup Sqdn - 020 8309 9926
Erith Sqdn - 01322 340749
Alzheimer’s Society
Bexley Branch - 01322 524950/ 559308
Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 www.bexleych.wix.com/bexleycharities-78
Assyrian Community of Kent 01322 335479
Avante Community Support: Homecare 01322 344 980 107 (Bexleyheath) Army Cadet Force 07756 775294
Advocacy for All 0345 310 1812
Barnehurst Yoga Club 0771 222 6261
Barnehurst & Ivor Thomas Pool League
dleedsie@gmail.com
Belvedere Over 50s Keep Fit 0208 311 5550
Belvedere Social Bowls Club 01322 435 149
Bexley Borough Mummies 07572 473 272
Belvedere Community Forum and Centre 020 8311 5550
Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme 01322 311333
Bexley Active Retirement Club 020 8303 9675
Bexley African Caribbean Community Association (BACCA) 07946 497 731
Bexley Archaeological Group 020 8300 1752
Bexley Art Group 01322 430681
Bexley Arts Trust 020 8303 8177
Bexley Athletics Club 01322 342485 / info@bexleyac.org.uk www.bexleyac.org.uk
Bexley Bards Story Tellers 0771 222 6261
Bexley visually impaired bowls club 020 8304 8409
Bexley Book Binding Group 07504 610 682
Bexley Borough Pensioners Forum 01322 527097
Bexley Boys & Girls Hall 020 8858 5123
Bexley Cats Protection 07880 471333 coordinator@bexley.cats.org.uk
Bexley Centre for the Unemployed 020 8301 3187
Bexley Churches Housing Assoc. Ltd 020 3866 5999
Bexley Civic Society secretary@bexleycivicsociety.org.uk
Bexley Community Library Art Club 01322 836303/07446 480619
Bexley Cricket Club steventhomas.crawley@openreach.co.uk
Bexley Croquet Club 01322 525975 www.bexleycroquet.org.uk
Bexley Deaf Centre 01322 351122
Bexley Federation of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners (BFALG) 07470 468594
Bexley Foodbank 0808 208 2138 - 07385 921627
Bexley Football Club 020 8858 5123
Bexley Jazz Club www.bexleyjazzclub.org.uk
Bexley Natural Environment Forum 01322 521 259
Bexley Down’s Syndrome Group www.bexleydownssyndrome.co.uk
Bexley Heritage Trust Hall Place - 01322 526574
Bexley Historical Society steve.camp1@btinternet.com
Bexley Ladies Keep Fit Club
Hurst Community Centre
Bexley & Lewisham Sea Cadets 020 8304 9448
Bexley Masters Swimming Club 07957 447432
Bexley Marquetry Group 01689 851702
Bexley Mencap 020 8303 6336
Bexley ME Support Group 020 8303 8553
Bexley Moorings Project www.bexleymoorings.co.uk
Bexley Music Society 020 8306 2152
Bexley Pain Group 020 8298 6287
Bexley Park Bowls Club selkent01@hotmail.com
Bexley Photography Chatter Community www.BexleyPhotographyChatter.co.uk
Bexley Rotary Club bexleyrotaryclub@gmail.com
Bexley Rugby Football Club www.bexleyrugby.co.uk - 07909 555521
Bexley SNAP 01322 334192
Bexley Stop Smoking Service 0800 7832514
Bexley Talking Newspaper 01322 445293
Bexley Tinnitus Support Group 01322 525115
Bexley Twofold 020 8303 7777/020 3045 4920
Bexley Turkish Elderly Day Centre 020 8306 6736
Bexley Voice - 07512 409936
Bexley Volunteer Centre 01322 524682
Bexley Ukulele Group - 07711 704033
Bexley Women’s Aid - 020 8301 1536
Bexley Village Women’s Institute 07976 124637
Bexleyheath & District Club for Disabled - 020 8303 4826
Bexleyheath & Barnehurst Bowls Club 01322 526932 or 0744 447 5417
Bexleyheath & Belvedere Hockey Club 07720 412547
Bexleyheath Cricket Club www.bexleyheathcc.co.uk
Bexleyheath Photographic Society https://bexleyheathphotographicsociety. zenfolio.com/ Bexleyheath Gaming Club (Pokémon/Yu-Gi-Oh!) www.facebook.com/BexleyGamingClub
Bexleyheath & Crayford Waterside Women’s Institute - 020 8303 8192
Bexrose Gardening Society 01322 449066
Bexleyheath Golf Club 020 8303 6951
membership@bexleyheath.golf
Bridge Club at Bexleyheath, Scout Hall 01322 446625 / 07799 220954
Bridge Mental Health 020 8298 9677
Bridging the Gap for Autism 020 8300 5444 / 07557 278 215
British Army Association 01322 449175
British Polio Fellowship (North West Kent Branch) 020 8304 1694
Burnt Ash (Bexley) Hockey Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/burntashhc Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch.contact@bexley.camra.org.uk
Cancer Research UK - local fund raising 020 8302 3964
Chislehurst & Sidcup Ballet Club 07746719258
Care Matters UK Ltd - 01322 522440
Carers’ Support Bexley 020 8302 8011
Chislehurst & Sidcup Ballet Club 07746 719258
The Compassionate Friends Child Bereavement Support www.tcf.org.uk
Connexions Prospects - 020 3045 5555
Contact the Elderly - 020 8303 4723
County Gate Lodge
www.countygatelodge-freemasons.co.uk
Cray Cottage Bowls Club
Erith - 07971 053484
Crayford & District Probus Club 020 8300 3609
Crayford Camera Club 01322 438808
Crayford Judo Club 01322 631108
Crayford Manor House
Historical Society 01322 551279
Crayford Women’s Institute 01322 557229
Crescent Lawn Tennis Club (Sidcup) www.crescenttennisclub.co.uk
The Crossness Engines Trust www.crossness.org.uk
Crossroads Care South East London 01322 336086
Cruse Bereavment Care - 020 8304 5245
Danson Park Bowls Club 07751068274
Danson Youth Trust - 020 8303 6052
Darent Cray National Trust Association 01474 705402
Deepdene WI Welling - 07775697479
Diabetes UK Bexley Support Group 07775 305110
Dimbleby Macmillian Cancer Support Guys at Queen Mary’s hospital 020 7188 0771 Discover Welling www.discoverwelling.co.uk discoverwelling@gmail.com
East Wickham and Welling Allotment and Garden Society 0753 8918234
Erith & District Swimming Club edsc@edsc.org.uk
Erith & District Synchronised Swimming Squads synchro@edsc.org.uk
Erith & Thamesmead CAP Debt Centre 07576 315994
Erith Model Railway Society www.erithmrs.ukmodelshops.co.uk
Erith Nemesis Martial Arts Gym 01322 335076
Erith Veterans Club Ltd - 01322 342137
Erith Veterans Club Singers - 01322 553078
Erith Yacht Club - 01322 332943 www.erithyachtclub.org.uk
Evergreen Care Bexley www.evergreencareuk.org
The Exchange www.theexchangeerith.com
info@theexchangeerith.com 01322 341144
Feel Good Co-Operative - 07908 034081
To add your organisation to this list, or to update your contact details please e-mail communications@bexley.gov.uk or telephone 020 8303 7777 and ask for Communications
Family Action - 020 8310 6570 Girlguiding UK www.girlguiding.org.uk or call 0800 169 5901Guru Ravidass
Cultural assc. Erith & Belvedere
Email - sgrca57@hotmail.com
Hall Place Miniature Railway 07808 174 950 –andrew@houstonceng.co.uk
Haven - Gay & Lesbian Social Group 01322 287356 / 07804 808581
Headway South East London/ North West Kent - 020 8319 7148
Healthwatch Bexley 020 8304 9344
Helio Mirror Bowls Club www.heliomirrorbowls.org.uk
Hill Park Autistic Trust 01322 334318
Holy Trinity Lamorbey Social Club 07903 565502
Hurst Horticultural & Garden Society 020 8306 2202
Imago 07710 847812 www.imago.community
Insight Bexley - 07824 999581 www.insightbexley.org
Inspire Community Trust 020 3045 5100
Irish Community Services in Greenwich, Bexley & Lewisham 020 8854 4466
Jlinks Physiotherapy - 07951 025208
Jolly Roger Whist Club
Hurst Community Centre, Sidcup 07890 729508
Kingfisher Bowls C lub 07713 920060
Lamorbey Over 50’s Club 020 8304 6055
Lamorbey Park Archers www.lamorbeyparkarchers.club
Lamorbey & Sidcup Local History Society - 020 8302 0059
Lamorbey Park Cricket Club 07741 193133
Lesnes Abbey Woods Conservation Volunteers www.facebook.com/ LesnesAbbeyConservationVolunteers
London Borough of Bexley Retired Employees Assoc 01322 409115 / 01322 558198
Macular Society Bexley Support Group 020 8856 8954
Manor House Bowls Club 020 8310 3648 / 07305 093876
Mayplace Art & Crafts Group 01322 529972
The Meeting Place
Wed 9.30am - 1.30pm
St John Fisher Church Hall
Meridian Canoe Club - 07801 549601
MIND In Bexleywww.mindinbexley.org.uk 0208 303 8932
MND Association - 01322 228169
Multiple Sclerosis Society 020 8306 7050
New Sidcup / Eagles / Bexley Badminton Club www.eaglesandsidcup.com
NFOP (National Federation of Occupational Pensioners) 020 8298 7074
Sidcup Ladies Club 07765 428569 - (7.15 p.m. - 9.15 p.m)
North West Kent Family History Society www.nwkfhs.org.uk
North West Kent Philatelic Society 0208 301 2260
North Kent Scottish Association Wednesday evenings at Barnehurst Golf Club
Old Bexley Floral Arrangement Society 020 8302 9984
Royal Airforces Assoc - 020 8303 5158
Royal Artillery Association - Sidcup Branch 020 8306 1992Royal British Legion (Bexleyheath and Welling Branch) info@bexleyheathandwellingrbl.co.uk
Royal Naval Association (Sidcup Branch) 07932 767105
Serenade Singers marina.morris@gmail.com
St John Ambulance
Sidcup - 0844 770 4800 Erith - 07974 219471
St Michaels Ladies Club Welling 020 8306 1146
Samaritans 116 123
Shopmobility Scheme 020 8301 5237
Sidcup Art Club - 020 8302 5390
Sidcup Bowls Club - 07977 145039
Sidcup Chess Club www.sidcupchessclub.org.uk
Sidcup Cricket Club 07411 177680
Sidcup Active Retirement Association 07414 818944
Sidcup Debt Advice - 020 8269 8621
Sidcup & District Caledonian Association
Scottish Country Dancing 020 8856 4522
Sidcup & District Motor Cycle Club 01634 201268
Sidcup Jazz Club 07719 680047
Sidcup Jazz Record Club 020 8309 0183
Sidcup Literary & Scientific Society 020 8309 0183
Sidcup Musical Productions 020 8304 9150 / 020 8300 1392
Sidcup Pentanque Club - based at Sidcup
Recreation Club 07825 934694
Sidcup Rotary Club rotarysidcup@gmail.com
Sidcup Symphony Orchestra 01322 552710
Signpost Community - Drug & Alcohol Team 01322 357940
SmileyArk Kids Club 07956 263531
Smyth Lodge Care home (Sidcup) 03333 218599
The Scout Association 0845 094 6368 or 0845 300 1818
Speakability Sidcup 07815 295960
SSAFA - the Armed Forces Charity 020 8639 0495
Stillbirth & Neonatal Death -07951 454682
St John Ambulance Crayford Sidcup 0844 770 4800
St Mary’s (Welling)Players 020 8303 8933/ 07866 259302
Sunrise Frognal House Residental Care Home (Sidcup) 020 8302 2600
Trust Thamesmead 020 3828 4900
The Link Thamesmead - 020 3828 4950
Sporting Club Thamesmead 020 3828 4920
Thames Innovation Centre - 020 8320 1000
Thamesmead Running Club -07944 282611
Turn Around Toys CIC www.turnaroundtoys.co.uk turnaroundtoysbexley@gmail.com
United Nations Assoc (Bexley) 01322 335 479
University of the Third Age
Abbey Wood & Thamesmead 020 8311 7005
University of the Third Age Bexley 07859 882385
University of the Third Age Sidcup and District- 07717 020611
Sandra Applegate (Secretary)
Veterans Club of Bexley - 020 8304 2815
Parkinson’s Disease Society - 020 8306 5973
The Practical Photographic Group 020 8304 6561
Friends of Danson Park - 07596 657763
Friends of Foots Cray Meadows www.footscraymeadows.org
Friends of the Old English Garden
Bexleyheath Sports Club - 020 8303 4755
Bexley & District Cats Protection 07880 471333
Bexley & Sidcup Lions Club 07790 279683
Bird College - 020 8300 6004
Brampton Art Group - 020 8303 9132
The Boys’ Brigade & Girls Assoc 020 8304 9669
Dansonoldenglishgarden@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ DansonParkOldEnglishGarden
Friends of the Red House01322 865186
Rainbows, Guide or Ranger Groups 020 8301 1200/01322 294516
Re-Instate Community Hub 01322 438155
Remap, London South Disability 07780 366130
Rose Bruford College www.bruford.ac.uk - 020 8308 2600
Victim Support (Bexley) 020 7277 1433/ 020 8698 4583
Welling and District Model
Engineering Society
07808 174 950 – info@wdmes.co.uk
Welling Art Group - 07905 437 840
Welling Being Link - 07895 143939
Welling U3A - University of the Third Age 07736 416693
Women’s Aid Helpline020 8301 1536
Parkinsons
Appliance Services Ltd
07766 607251
020 8301 1618 / 020 8303 6950
Repairs/Sales/Service
Washing machines, Dishwashers, Cookers, Ovens, Tumble Dryers, Storage Heaters etc
Fast Friendly Service
Formerly of Lion Road, Bexleyheath
SCHOOL ADMISSION APPEAL PANEL MEMBERS
We are seeking to recruit volunteers to sit on the independent panel that considers school admission appeals. We are looking for good interpersonal and communication skills, understanding of people, sound judgement and the ability to make considered, fair decisions. Training will be provided.
Hearings take place ad hoc virtually, using Microsoft Teams. Typically, each admission appeal lasts 30 minutes – there can be as few as one or as many as eight in one day. The summer months are busiest, when the team is dealing with large numbers of appeals for secondary transfer and primary allocation.
For more information contact Eva Read on 020 3045 3599 or Jo Laurance on 020 3045 3598. Email eva.read@bexley.gov.uk or joanne. laurance@bexley.gov.uk
“Being a Shared Lives Carer is all about understanding and making a difference in someone’s life. It requires patience, positivity, kindness and respect. When looking back you can see how someone has become more independent, confident and smiles a lot - that’s powerful”
