YourBrent Summer 2021

Summer 2021 www.brent.gov.uk/yourbrent The magazine about life in Brent, published

by Brent Council

Euro 2020 - It’s finally here!

Football’s coming home as Wembley hosts first major tournament since restrictions loosened

SUMMER IN THE CITY The fun starts here

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS Meet the residents battling health inequalites

RAHEEM The local boy who’s reached the top

WEMBLEY HIGH TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE AND NORTH BRENT SCHOOL

Wembley High Technology College is one of the highest performing schools in England.

North Brent School is based at Wembley High premises until the new school is built.

This is a unique opportunity for your child to attend an excellent school in Wembley Multi-Academy Trust.

2019

The 4TH HIGHEST Progress 8 score in the COUNTRY (+1.58)

2020

The 4TH HIGHEST Progress score for maths and science in the COUNTRY

61% of all GCSEs were awarded GRADES 9 – 7 (A*/A)

48% of all A Level GRADES A*/A, with 75 A*s

Wembley Multi-Academy Trust is comprised of three schools: WEMBLEY HIGH TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE EAST LANE PRIMARY SCHOOL NORTH BRENT SCHOOL

CEO/Executive Headteacher: Ms. G. Bal OBE Executive Headteacher: Mr. A. Hathi | Head of School (North Brent School): Mr. G. Dineen See www.whtc.co.uk for Wembley High Technology College and North Brent School

YOUR BRENT

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IN THIS ISSUE...

VACCINATE TO LIBERATE

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Eligible for the vaccine? What are you waiting for?

NEWS

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A round-up of the latest news in Brent

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EUR0 2020

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Your one stop EUROS showcase

VACCINATE TO LIBERATE

YOUR EURO SHOWCASE

SUMMER IN THE CITY

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Introducing your summer of fun!

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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How to stay active and have fun, close to home

BIG SCREEN RELAUNCH FOR LEXI

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The Lexi is back open and ready to welcome film fans once again

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

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Meet some of your community champions

CARING FOR OUR YOUNG CARERS

HOME RUN

BIG SCREEN LAUNCH FOR LEXI

We find out more about the Heder family

HOME RUN

www.facebook.com/BrentCouncil

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A closer look at the house building figures in Brent

twitter.com/Brent_Council

Brent Customer Services 020 8937 1234 www.brent.gov.uk

I’LL USE A LIFE LINE

YOUR BRENT is available in large print.

Please call 020 8937 1234

ARTS & CULTURE AND WHAT’S ON

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Could the new Resident Support Fund help you

Issue No.168 SUMMER 2021 Distribution queries and editorial: yourbrent@brent.gov.uk

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EDITOR Sarah Whyte sarah.whyte@brent.gov.uk PRODUCTION EDITOR Charlie Graham Edwards graham.edwards@brent.gov.uk

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SUMMER IN THE CITY

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Events, activities and more

USEFUL CONTACTS

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Your cut out and keep council services page

ADVERTISING SALES advertising@brent.gov.uk Published by Brent Council Brent Council does not accept responsibility for any goods or services offered by advertisers. Publication of an advertisement does not imply recommendation by the council of goods or services advertised.

Printed on 100 per cent FSC paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this magazine and other paper. 8596BDU0820

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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COVID-19

Vaccinate to

Get your vaccine, get your life back – that’s the message for anyone who is still considering whether they will join the tens of millions of people who have already been vaccinated.

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YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

liberate!

R

ecent headlines about new variants of the virus – some of which have been identified in our borough – have only heightened the need to get the jab if you haven’t already done so. This is especially true of those in higher age groups and residents who may have got the first jab, but not the second.

Cllr Neil Nerva, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Culture and Leisure, said: “If you have been delaying getting the jab, now is the time to act. If you still have questions about the vaccine, check out answers on the council’s website at www. brent.gov.uk/vaccine and click on the links to information from the NHS and in different languages.

“You might also want to take the time to speak to people who have had the jab and if you are still unsure, contact your GP.

COVID-19

They will be happy to answer your questions. One thing is for sure though – getting vaccinated really is the answer to getting us out of this pandemic.”

Working with local NHS services, the council is increasing the ways in which you can get the vaccine. The mass vaccination site in Wembley now offers a walk-in service and similarly you can walk up and get your jab at the Vaccine Bus and the pop-up clinics across the borough.

The clinics have been popping up in mosques, churches and community centres and the bus is now out and about five days a week, parking up on high streets and in housing estates to reach different communities.

An interactive map with all the different options is now available via the webpage www.brent.gov.uk/VOC

Cllr Nerva cheers on Brent’s touring vaccination bus YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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TOGETHER AGAIN As Wembley Stadium welcomes the Euro 2020 football tournament this month, no doubt we’ll see flags from across the continent go up in windows and front gardens. All in the spirit of good-natured competition, of course! I hope you’ll enjoy our round-up of Brent businesses cheering on their national team.

That’s what I love about Brent – we are a wonderful melting pot of people with different backgrounds and experiences.

Throughout all the turbulence and heartbreak of the last year, we continued to find common ground, to build each other up and to rally behind one other when it’s most needed. This sense of community is something we must continue to nurture and never take for granted.

In May, tragedy unfolded once again in the Middle East. I condemn the violence and pray for peace. My heart goes out to all of the ordinary people, both in Palestine and Israel, who are paying the price. Sadly, some have used these recent events as an excuse to spread hatred – there is no excuse.

As we come back together this summer, to enjoy the Euros, or the culture that’s on offer (p.14) or simply sitting round a table again with loved ones, let’s celebrate community and the things we have in common.

And while we’re thinking of others, I urge you to get vaccinated when it’s your turn.

By doing our bit as individuals, we can protect those around us.

All bricked up The final bricks were laid for 149 new Harlesden homes this spring.

The development at Anansi House will include the construction of two new buildings - 92 homes that will be used as temporary accommodation for households waiting to be rehoused permanently by the council and 57 homes that will enable people to live independently, whilst having access to support.

The council decided to build its own temporary accommodation in the borough to provide better quality housing than is often available.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood, Brent Council’s Lead Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, said: “Over the past year, it has become clearer than ever how important suitable and affordable homes are for everyone.

“This project is an opportunity for us to provide high-quality temporary accommodation and a safe home for people to live independently.”

“The fact we have been able to continue with our ambitious new homes programme during a global pandemic is a huge achievement, and we will continue to do everything we can to help our community and work towards creating a fairer and more equal Brent.”

Wembley key player in the Mayors Let’s Do London campaign Wembley and all the excitement of venues to attract Londoners and visitors the delayed UEFA Euro 2020 will be from across the UK back to central in the spotlight once again as part London and support jobs. of the Mayor of London’s “Let’s Do London” campaign.

Aiming to kick-start London’s economy and help get the many industries impacted by the pandemic, back on their feet as COVID restrictions are eased, the new campaign brings together the capital’s world-leading hospitality, nightlife, culture and retail

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Cllr Muhammed Butt

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021of Brent Council Leader

NEWS

Gearing up to go green Two Harlesden businesses and a community group are trialling eco-friendly cargo bikes to carry out food deliveries and recycling drops.

Sparks Cycle Shop, Crazy Baker and the Harlesden Mutual Aid team have all strapped on their helmets as part of a Brent Council pilot which launched during Bike Week..

Cllr Krupa Sheth, Lead Member for Environment, said: “Cargo bikes are a great alternative to gas guzzling delivery vehicles, cutting CO2 emissions by up to 75% and can help cut costs. The cost of running one cargo bike for a year is around £319, compared to £6,169 for a diesel van. We are always exploring innovative solutions as part of our commitment to reduce carbon emissions in Brent so I’m delighted to see everyone getting stuck into the pilot!”

Sophie Grey, Owner of Crazy Baker said: “We are really excited to be getting involved in the cargo bike trial. It is important we all do our part to care for the environment, and as a business we feel that we can make a positive impact.”

Cllr Shama Tatler, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning said: “It’s great to see Brent businesses trialling cargo bikes. Climate change is an issue that affects everyone. None of us can afford to stick our heads in the sand. By working together and making small changes, we can achieve our target of zero carbon emissions in Brent by 2030.”

Cllr Sheth with the owner of Crazy Baker, and reps from Zap Waste and MP Smarter Travel

Brexit: June deadline for EU nationals to register EU nationals wanting to continue to live and work in the UK have until the end of June to apply for the EU Settlement scheme.

It is free to register. To be eligible for the scheme, you must be an EU national living in the UK on or before 31 December 2020 and must apply to the scheme by 30 June 2021.

Visit www.brent.gov.uk/brexit to find out more.

Ending period poverty, Period.

The council is working with schools to access support, as part of its commitment to ending period poverty in the borough.

Period poverty is an issue that affects millions of women and girls who struggle to afford or access safe menstrual protection.

A number of charities offer these products free of charge: www.freedom4girls.co.uk www.bloodygoodperiod.com www.thehygienebank.com

Community voices will be at the heart of climate change programme

www.trusselltrust.org and other local food banks

A ‘Resident Planning Group’ made up of diverse members of the Brent community, will decide how a £500,000 fund to reduce carbon emissions in Brent will be allocated locally.

The bold new programme puts the community in the driving seat, as they take charge of the budget. The Planning Group will set the criteria for how the fund should be spent, then hundreds of local people will make the final decisions on which projects are awarded money.

Residents and community groups will be invited to attend an open and transparent ‘Decision Day’ event this summer, to hear from projects applying for “Brent Carbon Offset” funding and then vote on their preferred projects.

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NEWS

Young black Caribbean boys encouraged to become future entrepreneurs “It takes a village to raise a child.”

That philosophy has inspired a new programme to help boys of Caribbean heritage in Brent to reach new heights.

The programme which is organised by Ultra Education CIC, and part-funded by Brent Council, is key to delivering the aims of the ten-year Black Community Action Plan which is working to deliver a fair and equal Brent where all residents can thrive.

It Takes a Village has already supported numerous boys through mentoring, workshops and in-school sessions, and shows no signs of slowing down.

“Ultra Education has given me the confidence to have my own business” says Marcus, CEO of MJ Treats, 10 years old.

Deputy Leader of Brent Council, Cllr McLennan also added: “I’m so grateful to Ultra Education for launching such a fantastic initiative and know this is going to have a real and long-lasting impact on young people like Marcus. This initiative, which is run by a black owned business and supports young black people, is one of the key actions of the Black Community Action plan and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.”

To find out more about It Takes a Village, go to www.ultra.education

Marcus, CEO of MJ Treats

Queensbury performing arts school celebrates 60 years of dance and drama

King Che, Fashion Model

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The Beverley School of Performing Arts is celebrating its 60th anniversary as part of the Queensbury community.

Many things have changed in Brent since the school was founded by Vivien Batchelder in 1961. But the school has stood the test of time, teaching classes from the same Methodist church hall since its founding. The school is spending its diamond anniversary celebrating the achievements of all its students and staff, creating an online book of memories.

Current principal Ruth Goodwin paid tribute to Vivien: “I cannot thank Vivien enough for establishing such a wonderful school back in 1961 at the Queensbury Methodist Church hall. Generations of students from within the local community have passed through The Beverley School of Performing Arts and it has played such a huge part in so many people’s lives.”

A celebration and anniversary show is planned for 24 July.

To find out more visit www.beverleydance.co.uk

NEWS

Happy, healthy, holiday fun for kids this summer Sports, drama, art activities and cooking healthy food… These are just some of the activities on offer during the summer Holiday and Food Activity Programme for children eligible for free school meals.

Children will be able to take part in lots of interactive and fun activities in different locations around the borough. This will be a great way to keep your child happy, healthy and entertained in the summer. All activities will support children and young people’s physical health and wellbeing.

To find out more about what is on offer or to book a place for your child go to www.brent.gov.uk/haf.

Mayor of London, London Assembly and Brondesbury Park May election results Sadiq Khan, Labour Party was re-elected as the Mayor of London after winning the election that took place on Thursday 6 May 2021.

In addition, the Labour Party won the majority of the 25 London Assembly seats and Krupesh Hirani, Labour Party, has been elected as the Assembly Member for the Brent and Harrow constituency.

Gwen Grahl, Labour Party, was elected to Brent Council after winning a seat in the Brondesbury Park by-election that was also held on the same day.

This follows the resignation of former councillor, Kieron Gill, earlier this year.

Krupesh Hirani

Gwen Grahl

Get tested weekly All residents are being encouraged to get tested twice a week as part of their regular routine to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Everyone in England, including those without symptoms, is eligible to take a free rapid COVID test twice a week. 1 in 3 people with COVID show no symptoms at all so could be spreading it without knowing if they don’t test regularly.

The Ultra-Low Emission Zone is expanding The Ultra-Low Emission Zone is expanding into Brent from 25 October 2021. Have you checked your vehicle?

Four out of five cars already meet the ULEZ emissions standards, but the Mayor of London and TfL are asking owners of older cars, motorcycles, lighter van and minibuses to take action.

Check your vehicle meets the ULEZ emissions standards by visiting tfl.gov.uk/ulez-2021 Apply for £60,000 share of sustainability fund A £60,000 community fund, specifically for sustainable community projects, is now open for applications.

The fund from Veolia, Brent’s recycling and waste collection partner, helps residents to spruce up their local area and think sustainably.

Find out more about the fund and how you can apply at: Veolia.co.uk/Sustainability-Fund Register and book for Family Wellbeing Centres online Family Wellbeing Centres support your family from the moment you know you are expecting until your child is 18 years old (or up to 25 for young people with additional needs).

There is a wide range of services available from midwifery and baby clinics, to family learning, after school and holiday activities for children of all ages and parenting programmes.

To ensure you can access the services, you will need to register in advance first. Go to www.brent. gov.uk/familywellbeingcentres to register online. Once you have registered, you will be able to book online for appointments for various services.

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NEWS

Remembering George Floyd

A statement from Deputy Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Margaret McLennan

‘‘

A year ago in May, we were all shocked and moved by the tragic and brutal murder of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer.

We marked the one year anniversary of George Floyd’s death by lighting up the Civic Centre building purple and ‘took the knee’ as a mark of respect.

George Floyd was not the first unarmed Black person to be killed by a police officer, but his death has sparked a wave of change at a time when the world was finally able to listen.

I hope that out of this horrific and appalling event comes a world where people feel able to stand up to racism. In Brent, we are committed to improving the experience of Black communities.

We have a ten year Black Community Action Plan in place, and we will work tirelessly to deliver a fair and equal Brent where all our residents can thrive.

It is not enough for people to be horrified by what happened to George Floyd, we all need to be actively anti-racist and challenge racism where it exists in our day-to-day lives.

‘‘

New trustees for Metroland Cultures arts charity Three members of the Blueprint Collective, the inspiring group of creative young people at the heart of Brent 2020: Zeyn Alsukhny, Ismael Dahir and Savannah Mullings Johnson have joined five other local young creatives, artists, youth workers, curators as new trustees to Metroland Cultures, the charity established to deliver Brent 2020, Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture and its legacy.

Metroland Cultures was awarded a £1m grant from Brent Council to support the legacy of culture in Brent. Plans for the future of culture in the borough include free workspace for artists in Kilburn, a new bi-annual music event and sustained investment in the Brent Art Biennial, which took place for the first time Image : Savannah Mullings Johnson in 2020.

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Your best recipes wanted for community cookbook!

Across the UK we throw away a massive 4.5 million tonnes of edible food each year - that’s enough to fill Wembley Stadium to the brim 8 times.

That’s why this summer Brent Council is teaming up with recycling partner, Veolia, to make an online cookbook packed full of recipes which help fight food waste and celebrate the creativity and culture of our residents. And the best bit? You can enter your signature dishes!

Get involved and send your delicious, planet friendly recipes to recyclemore@brent.gov.uk to feature.

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NEWS

New Mayor of Brent sworn in Cllr Lia Colacicco is the new Mayor of Brent after being elected as the borough’s first citizen at the council’s Annual General Meeting.

Cllr Colacicco took over the chains of office from Cllr Ernest Ezeajughi. Following a career in marketing Cllr Colacicco, who is married with two children, served as a councillor for Mapesbury since 2014.

She has been Deputy Mayor for the past two years.

In her maiden mayoral speech, Cllr Colacicco said: ‘It is a huge honour to have the opportunity to represent our fantastic borough as Mayor in a year when we are Council of the Year and the European Football finals come home to Wembley.

Brent is a melting pot, full of beautiful variety. There’s no need to travel to see other cultures, it’s all here.

But my favourite thing is that Brent, our very own Brent, is officially the ONSapproved happiest borough in the whole country proving, if proof were needed, that people really do love where they live.”

During her year term, the Mayor will support two charities: Parkinson’s UK: The charity works to change attitudes, support sufferers and their families, and fundraise for research to find a cure for Parkinson’s.

Cricklewood Library: The NW2 community library provides facilities for children and adults, as well as space for local people to meet in its community café.

Residents can keep up with the Mayor’s official engagements and visits around Brent by following her on Twitter and Instagram @mayorofbrent.

Cllr Lia Colacicco, Brent’s new Mayor

Silver Jubilee Park: the old sports pavilion gets a makeover thanks to Brent Council and creative duo Craig & Tom of Static, who designed and painted the murals. It is hoped that the transformation will discourage anti-social behaviour in the vicinity.

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Before the makeover YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

ST CLAUDINE’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Championing excellence and equality in girls’ education

Brent’s only all-girls 11-18 school. We welcome girls from all faiths and none. An all-girls’ school enables students to view all subjects, leadership positions and career choices as ‘for girls’ and allows them to flourish in an atmosphere of security and trust.

Maximising potential. Our girls are able to develop their unique gifts and talents through our broad curriculum, supported by our staff.

Aiming High. 99% of last year’s 6th Formers moved on to university, achieving places at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities, and some winning full scholarships to American Ivy League colleges.

Shaping the future. We are proud that St Claudine’s students develop the skills, resilience and commitment to become future leaders.

Girls do better in an all girls’ school!

Learn more about us at www.stclaudines.co.uk (website in development), or call for an appointment to visit the school: 020 8965 2986. Some spaces currently available in years 7, 8 & 9.

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NEWS

What a legacy!

A community cast perfomed at the opening event

Football’s coming home Football fans are set to return to Wembley Stadium as the Euros come home after 25 years.

Delayed due to COVID-19, this is the first major sporting event to take place after the events of the pandemic.

Fans attending the first few games will need to show a recent negative COVID-19

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YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

test or have received both doses of the vaccine to watch the match.

Teams from across the council – such as enforcement, parking and trading standards officers and clean-up crews – will be out in force to ensure that everything runs smoothly and safely on match days.

When Brent 2020 launched with a large-scale, outdoor performance, celebrating Brent’s history, no one could have predicted that just weeks later the world would be in the midst of a global pandemic.

Despite this, the year saw audiences of over 800,000 enjoying events in person and online and over 15,000 participants helping to deliver the programme as volunteers, community advisors and co-creators.

Brent will continue the work of the Borough of Culture through an investment in Metroland Cultures, the charity established to deliver Brent 2020, and a new Local Cultural Education Partnership.

Support for artists will continue via Brent Artist Network, established as part of the Borough of Culture programme alongside a commitment to deliver free space for arts and culture to ensure that Brent is a place that welcomes and supports artists and creativity.

General Levy closed the 2020 launch event with a live performance.

NEWS

£250,000 for heritage, health and wellbeing

£100,000 boost for Harlesden culture Harlesden cultural organisations will receive £100,000 to launch a series of community-led activities on and around the High Street over the next two years.

The grant from Historic England is the latest in a string of investments in Harlesden, designed to boost public and community spaces, local businesses, as well as to celebrate local cultures.

The Young Brent Foundation will lead a team of 9 local organisations (yet to be announced). Together, they will create and

A wide-ranging project which will involve a huge cross-section of community members has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £250,000.

Brent Museum and Archives will deliver Being Brent – Heritage for Health and Wellbeing for a year from May 2021.

Being Brent will be developed and delivered in partnership with the local community and will provide cultural and creative opportunities through an innovative programme including theatre performance with Useful Productions, commissions of new digital art and will also

record the memories and traditions of those who make the borough their home. Being Brent will support people to develop new skills through volunteering placements and heritage employment workshops with Brent Works.

Cllr Neil Nerva, Lead Member for Public Health, Culture & Leisure, said: “The Being Brent programme is a fantastic way for local people to come together and improve their health and wellbeing by engaging with their heritage.

With activities planned to take place across the borough it’s exciting that everyone will have the opportunity to get involved.”

deliver a series of cultural programmes, building on Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture. The programmes will reflect and highlight the rich, diverse heritage of Harlesden and those who call the area home. Cllr Shama Tatler, Lead

Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning, said: “Harlesden has a rich cultural heritage, woven together by the people who call it home. The funding will help shine a light on previously unexplored corners of that diverse tapestry”.

Jubilee Clock, Harlesden YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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NEWS

Footballer charity partnership brings training opportunities to Stonebridge ‘Community first’. That’s the motto of the Jason Roberts Foundation (JRF), a Stonebridge-based charity named after the former Reading striker who was born and brought up in the area.

Supporting the local community will be front-and-centre in a string of new projects.

Brent Council and Higgins Partnerships, a developer, have joined forces with JRF to boost training, education and volunteering in Stonebridge.

All partners signed a Charter and now

Jason Roberts

will begin considering a host of projects, from improving local facilities and community spaces, to volunteering and mentoring schemes, employment workshops, career fairs and sports days with local schools.

The programme will help strengthen and empower communities around Hillside and Milton Avenue, a £22 million scheme to build 73 homes and a new public open space for Stonebridge residents.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood, Lead Member for Housing & Welfare Reform, said:

“The Jason Roberts Foundation does incredible work in Stonebridge, and I’m looking forward to seeing the opportunities these projects will create for young people in the area.”

Otis Roberts, Cllr Southwood and Neil Carter from Higgins

17 year old artist creates graffiti masterpiece on Stonebridge Estate Aspiring Brent artist, Hannah Poorman created an eye-catching masterpiece on the hoarding of Brent Council and Higgins Partnership site, site on the Stonebridge Estate.

The young artist, who is currently studying Art and Design at college and dreams of becoming an architect, was approached by Higgins after they advertised for a local artist to create some artwork for the hoarding.

Hannah Poorman comments, “I really enjoyed it, especially as the painting started to come together more and more. It was great to have the company of the residents stopping by and telling their stories and I really appreciated all the support I received. I enjoyed painting and it was a great experience for me.”

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YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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AUSTRIA

WALES

UKRAINE

TURKEY

SWITZERLAND

SWEDEN

BELGIUM

CROATIA

CZECH REPUBLIC

DENMARK

ENGLAND

Your one-stop

EUROs

showcase

With the UEFA European Football Championships returning to Wembley this June and July, we showcase some of the great local businesses with EURO connections.

SLOVAKIA YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021 30 SPAIN

SCOTLAND

RUSSIA

PORTUGAL

POLAND

FINLAND

FRANCE

GERMANY

HUNGARY

ITALY

NETHERLANDS

NORTH MACEDONIA

EURO 2020

italy

Supporting Italy

England ‘C’mon you Blues’ will be ringing out in Willesden Green as the Sanzio Italian Restaurant get behind the Italian team.

Maria Sundrica has been running the restaurant in Brent for the last 10 years.

Maria is really looking forward to the European Championships and believes Italy can go all the way this year. “The European championships is chance to celebrate different cultures and that’s what I love about living in Brent. I love the diversity and international feel of this place portugual italy and the people are so relaxed and friendly. romania I used to run my business in Hackney but we feel much happier in Brent”.

Taking their chances with Turkey turkey Over at Neasden Fish & Chips, owner romania Mehmet Selvi and his staff will be supporting England at the European Championships, but keeping an eye out for Turkey as well.

Mehmet, originally from Turkey, has run this local Fish and Chips shop in Neasden for 40 years and will be cheering on his adopted country England this summer.

England

Another Italy fan is Adam Clarke who runs Sacro Cuore Pizza in Queens Park. Adam started his business nearly ten years ago and said: “What’s very important to me is that whatever you do, you do it the best that you can, so I wanted to create the best pizzas. We import our food every week from Italy, have an Italian brick oven that was imported from Naples, and all my chefs are from there, so it’s completely authentic. We don’t cut any corners. If you want a great product, you need to have the best ingredients, as well as soul and passion.”

Adam added: “Part of the reason why I love Brent is because it’s so multicultural, and there’s people from everywhere here.

The Euro will be a great celebration because we’ve all been stuck in our own countries for over a year now, and we can hopefully let our hair down.”

Mehmet said “Brent is such a great place to live and work and the people are so friendly and have supported my business during lockdown”.

His favourite player is Harry Kane and he’d like to see him lift the trophy this year as it would give everybody such a boost after a difficult year. England are due to win a big trophy soon and Mehmet thinks the European Championships could be the one after such a long time without a trophy.

Mehmet’s Fish and Chip is a local favourite in Neasden and he’s looking forward to serving his ‘Champion Chips’ long into the future!

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EURO 2020 The home advantage England Sophie Grey and Karen Street run the Crazy Baker, an artisan bakery and wholesaler based in North West London. Sophie shares: “I opened in 2009, then Karen became my business partner a few years later, and now we run the whole thing together with a second café opening in Kensal Rise soon, as well as cookery classes.

“We get lots of regular customers and I enjoy looking after people whatever their circumstances. I still live locally because there’s a sense of community in the area, which I really like.

Sophie explains how the café will prepare for the Euro: “With any sporting events like the Euro, we’ll make food that’s themed with that in mind, so the café will support by making cupcakes decorated with a team logo. It’s really exciting.”

Portugal for the win

ania

portugual

italy

italy

Joe Santos’ family always worked in restaurants and catering which gave him a good grounding to take over Forte Novo Café from his mother.

“I always wanted to have a bar, so I introduced alcohol to the cafe. My wife now helps me manage it too, and she’s helped to turn it into more of a restaurant. It’s a very friendly family business, and we love to welcome everyone.”

“When non-Portuguese people come into the shop, we love telling them about the products and all our different cheeses.

We like to talk a lot and share what we have.

We’reEngland just here to help and serve the community.”

Joe added: “Football has always been a big part of Portuguese culture. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the world’s best football players, so because he plays for the Portuguese team, everyone gets really excited for the matches, and the world is watching.”

England

turkey

More local business watching from the sidelines...

Rooting for Romania Rica Sicleanu owns Rica’s Hair and Beauty in Dollis Hill. “Owning a salon was my dream as a child. I started the business in 2013 and knew that it romania wouldn’t be easy, but this is my passion, so I do it with pleasure.”

“During lockdown I missed being able to socialise at the salon and make someone’s day better. My staff and customers are so inspiring, and I’ve always been a people’s person. I like feeling like I have a sense of family around me, so I’m really at home Her Dad was a huge football fan. She said: “Each time a big team is playing like Romania or England, then I try to get involved. If they’re both playing against each other in the Euro, then I don’t know who I’ll support – it depends on who’s winning!”

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romania

EURO 2020

Eastern European food & wine Just across the Irish Sea “Back in Ireland we had a family run pub, so I grew up in that environment. It’s something I really enjoy doing” shared Katrina. Katrina Comer opened The Parish Bar in Wembley in 2013.

“We built up our business over the years, so it’s become almost an institution in Wembley. Here at the Parish, it’s all about building a community.”

“There are a lot of first and second generation Irish people in the area, and Irish people tend to find one another quite easily.

When you are from a different country in London it can be quite lonely, so when Irish people come in, we make them feel welcome and encourage them to meet new people. If you come in by yourself, you’ll leave with 10 friends.”

Katrina added: “Pub culture and football go hand in hand. The pub is where people meet and get hyped for the game. I’m really looking forward to the Euros. It will be a massive outlet for people after the year we’ve had.”

Halim’s Traditional Barbers – Halim Ghalem “It was my dream to open my own business. so 19 years ago I just decided to go for it. I love hairdressing and barbering.

I get to see 20 different nationalities every day. You get Irish, English, Somali, North African, Eastern European people, and more.

“In the barbers, people tell me their stories, life problems, and talk to me about everything. It’s therapy for a lot of people. This isn’t just about cutting hair, it’s more than that.”

Halim shares: “Amongst us, we speak French, Spanish, Bulgarian, Polish, Russian, and much more, so it helps customers when you speak a few languages. On the weekend we put on Sky Sports, and we all support different countries. The conversation in here is always about football, so the Euro will create a nice atmosphere.”

Mos shares: “Initially we started just selling Romanian and Polish sausages, but then we expanded to Hungarian, Lithuanian, Latvian, and most recently Bulgarian food. We pride ourselves in listening to our customers and providing what they want.”

“Part of running a store is about being at one with the local community, so that’s really important to us. My wife Mumtaz is particularly strong at connecting with the locals. You don’t get that in a supermarket “Many times, our customers are first. generation Eastern Europeans. My wife and I were also immigrants here 40 to 50 years ago, so we know what it’s like and we can help people going through the same thing.

It’s especially important during COVID, where so many people have been lonely.”

Mos says: “Maybe the Euro is the best time to show how multicultural Brent is, because if we did something that celebrated every nation and their participation in the games, then that would highlight that Brent is a place that embraces everyone.”

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EUROS

Then and now It will be 25 years since the Euros was last held at Wembley.

Much has changed since Euro 96.

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Now famous for its huge arch which even has Facebook groups dedicated to it, Wembley Stadium used to be well known for its twin towers. Demolished in the early 2000s to make way for the current building, the venue has been host to hundreds of standout moments.

The most recent update to the stadium is the 48 Olympic Steps which replace the ramps (also called the pedway) that took fans from Wembley Park tube station directly to the stadium.

Harry Kane scores the opening goal for England v Bulgaria at Wembley in 2019

Gareth Southgate’s penalty In 1996, England reached the semi-finals of the EUROS in which they faced Germany. The match was determined by a penalty shootout. Southgate (left), who had played every minute of every match, had his penalty saved and England were eliminated from the completion. Fast forward 25 years and with his playing career behind him, the England manager will hope to lead the team to victory on their home turf.

A Sterling player

Only a baby when Gareth Southgate was lining up to take the penalty in 1996, Raheem Sterling grew up just a few minutes away from the world famous stadium. The talented England and Manchester City star, who once had a dream to rule the Wembley pitch, is now inspiring thousands of other young Brent residents.

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MY COMMUNITY

Places to visit in Ace Café Originally opened in 1938, the current Ace Café London is a café and venue known all around the world as “the home” for petrolheads. A hub for car, motorbike and rock and roll enthusiasts, the café welcomes everyone who wants to find out more about their rich traditions.

In 2019, the Ace Café was presented with a ‘red wheel’ recognising its contribution to the history of transport. Following on from the iconic original cafe in Brent, Ace venues can now also be found in Beijing, Barcelona and Florida, amongst many others across the globe.

The world´s most famous motor café is currently open for food and drink.

The Kiln Winner of “Best London Theatre” by The Stage Awards, the highest profile theatre awards in the UK, the Kiln has a 292 seat theatre alongside a 300 seat cinema, a bar, restaurant and café, plus three rehearsal spaces.

The Kiln reopened its doors in May with a one woman show – “Reasons you should(n’t) love me” by Amy Trigg.

Also on show as part of the Kiln’s reopening season programme is Zadie Smith’s debut play the “Wife of Willesden” and the The NW Trilogy sees playwrights Moira Buffini, Suhayla El-Bushra and Roy Williams explore stories from Brent’s diverse communities.

Find out more and book – www.kilntheatre.com

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Brent

EURO 2020 Thinking of other places to visit in the borough while the EUROs are on?

Why not visit one of these landmarks nearby.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden Temple

Neasden Temple is one of the biggest cultural icons in Brent.

Opened in August 1995, the Temple was the largest mandir (Hindu temple) outside of India.

Since being open the temple has won a host of awards and is on the London Tourist Board as one of the places to visit in the UK. Anyone in the world can visit the temple and to date more than 10.5 million visitors from over 120 countries, including over 18,000 schools and educational groups have visited.

Fryent County Park A hidden gem in North West London to rival the likes of Hampstead Heath, Fryent County Park has over 100 hectares of meadows, woods, hedgerows and ponds.

The highest point of the park, Barn Hill, rises to 86m.

Great for walkers and wildlife spotters, there are more than 800 species of wildlife including 80 recorded birds, 21 butterflies and 500 wild flowers.

A designated nature reserve, it is also used by local conservation volunteer groups like Friends of Fryent Park and the Barn Hill Conservation Group, as well as recreation use.

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ARTS & CULTURE

Summer in the T

There is a wealth of summer fun and entertainment to be had on your he 2020 Culture Fund was a grant scheme supporting local people and organisations to lead their own cultural activities as part of Brent’s year as London Borough of Culture. The projects developed are all rooted in the community and tell the unheard stories from the most diverse borough in London. Due to the pandemic, most projects were unable to happen in 2020 and will now be delivered this summer.

Museum of Youth CultureGrown Up In Brent 1-31 July

From Saturday cinemas on the Kilburn High Road to the excitement of your first Carnival, Grown Up in Brent brings together everyday stories of being young.

The exhibition features personal photographs, memories, objects and ephemera collected during the 2020 national lockdown. Open until 31 July at Kilburn Library.

Queer East Film Festival amplifies Asian LGBTQ+ voices

Queer East Film Festival The QEFF brings East and Southeast Asian LGBTQ+ cinema to London - launches 5 June Queer East Film Festival returns to the Lexi Cinema in June to celebrate the summer Pride season. Echoing Brent’s strong Asian affiliations, the festival showcases rarely seen queer cinema both from, and about, East and Southeast Asia, and amplifies the voices of Asian communities in the UK. The programme will feature titles from Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam, and explore the modern queer landscape in Asia. A special £5 ticket will be on offer to all Brent residents with support from the Brent 2020 Culture Fund. Find out more at https://queereast.org.uk/

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Grown Up in Brent by photographer Paul Walsh

Realtalk Productions Women in Reggae 3 July

An opportunity to get up close and personal with Brent’s Women in Music, and recognising female players of instruments and the variety of roles played by women within the industry.

With performances and interviews with Akabu, the world’s first all-female reggae band, and guest Harmonie Deja, singer/ songwriter and owner of Shero Records.

Also, an appearance by Reggae Star Factor finalist, Tasha. The conversation will be kept flowing by actress/radio presenter, Judith Jacob. Enjoy a meal, with great music performances, and an opportunity for questions from the audience.

ARTS & CULTURE

city

doorstop. Introducing your summer of fun!

SABA Brent UK UNSIGNED Mini-Festival

10 July

Brent UK UNSIGNED Festival will feature the wealth of unsigned performance talent throughout the day from across Brent’s diverse communities.

Tomorrows Warriors The Reggae Ticket 18 July The Reggae Ticket is an outreach programme to schools and community groups that gives young people from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to engage with the music, culture and heritage of the iconic Trojan Records label,

Women in Music

FuBu Nation

Noel, Gary and Brinsley look at records The Reggae Ticket

practitioner and range in a variety of styles including hip-hop, contemporary, Afro house, ground based movement & traditional African dance.

which itself hailed originally from Brent.

Originally commissioned as a part of Brent 2020 No Bass Like Home, The Reggae Ealing Road Mela Ticket will take place in collaboration with Brent Music Services. Young musicians will 1 August perform two specially arranged Trojan Brent Indian Association and AEM present tunes to be performed on the Riverside the Ealing Road Mela. An outdoor festival Terrace at the prestigious Royal Festival of music and dance which will celebrate Hall, ahead of a panel discussion on the Europe’s oldest Asian settlement with a Trojan Story in the Clore Ballroom and the combination of established and emerging ‘Jazz Jamaica All Stars – The Trojan Story’ local artists plus a stage for newly concert later that day, which is part of commissioned work.

Southbank Centre’s Summer Reunion programme.

Upswing Seasons

August date tbc Fubu Nation Summer 2021 sees the official launch of Dance with the Nation SEASONS – a very special collaboration between contemporary circus company 18-23 July UPSWING and Brent Library Service FUBUNATION a Brent based dance exploring the every day marvels of the organisation will be facilitating a five day natural world around us. dance intensive held at Bridge Park Activities will include live circus Community Leisure Centre. Beginners performances in and around the Library at workshops will be accessible for Willesden Green featuring amazing circus community participants so no prior dance artists; special circus films; a digital, experience is needed. Advanced classes interactive nature trail through the streets are also provided and are geared towards of Brent; and special activities linked to professionals or those who want to push the bar and challenge themselves further. Brent’s Summer Reading Challenge. For more information go to the Brent Council All workshops are free of charge and will website or follow our social media pages. take place everyday led by a specialist

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HAPPY & HEALTHY

The great Outdoors With holidays overseas still uncertain there are many ways to stay active and have fun closer to home this summer Healthy Walks programme Exercise doesn’t have to be hard work, a brisk walk can have great health benefits.

In Brent you can take in green spaces, country parks, high streets and historic landmarks.

Download our routes and go on your own, or join a free walk lead by a member of the Brent Active Lifestyles Team. Get walking and see what you can discover today.

Search “walk” in the sport activity finder on the website to find out more: www.brent. gov.uk/activityfinder

There are 20 outdoor gyms in parks and open spaces around the borough, providing a fun and easy way for you to stay active. They are free to use, include modern equipment such as chest press, rower and pull down machines and there are instructions telling you how to use each piece of equipment. We even have qualified instructors to help you get started. www.brent.gov.uk/outdoorgyms

Fitness can help improve our mental and physical health. There are so many free or affordable opportunities to improve your health and wellbeing while keeping fit and having fun with the family.

I hope this summer you can make the most of all the facilities we have in the borough and maybe even find a new hobby.

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Outdoor gyms

Cllr Neil Nerva, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Culture and Leisure 28

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HAPPY & HEALTHY Make a splash Those aged 16 or under can take the plunge this summer with free weekday swimming at Vale Farm and Willesden sports centres.

Join in the fun Monday to Friday between 11am-4pm at Vale Farm or 10am-12.15pm and 1.30pm-4pm at Willesden Sports Centre.

Booking is essential.

On two wheels Riding a bike is a great way to improve your cardio. We offer free cycle skills lessons for adults and children who are interested in becoming more confident riders.

Take a look at www.brent.gov. uk/cycling

Contact the centres for more information – details on the bottom of this page.

Other outdoor facilities

Our Parks

Do you have a young, budding Serena Williams or Andy Murray at home? If so, they can practise at one of the recently refurbished tennis courts around the borough. Not a tennis fan? Don’t worry, you can play basketball, football and more for free on one of our multi-use games areas (MUGAs): www.brent.gov.uk/ outdoorsports

We offer a free programme of exercise in local parks and online, to get you moving more.

For a full guide to what is happening in Brent, look out for a summer on your doorstep leaflet soon in your local library.

Classes include Full Body Workout, Circuits, Yoga and Boootcamp. All classes are FREE and must be booked online. www.ourparks.org.uk

Brent Council’s Leisure Centres are now open with changes to opening hours and operations to keep safe.

For Bridge Park Community Leisure Centre call 020 8937 3730 or search Bridge Park on the council website For Willesden Sports Centre call 020 8955 1120 or search Willesden Sports Centre on the council website For Vale Farm Sports Centre call 0208 908 6545 or search Vale Farm on the council website YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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ARTS & CULTURE

Big screen relaunch for Lexi Kensal Rise’s iconic Lexi Cinema is back with a bang this summer and is ready to welcome more film fans thanks to the opening of their new second screen.

T

he popular cinema secured £385,000 to help pay for the Lexi Hub from Brent Council’s Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) grants pot. The Lexi Hub is home to the new screen 2 and was part paid for from NCIL cash – which is pot of money funded by developers who pay the council a charge on most new developments. This money is then used for community projects that support the regeneration of the borough.

Following a two-year fundraising campaign, local cinema goers raised £141,000 with a further £50,000 coming from the Mayor of

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London’s crowdfund programme.

Cllr Tatler, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Property & Planning, said: “The Lexi does some fantastic work in the community. They are so much more than a cinema and I’m glad even more residents will be able to make use of this amazing community hub. Over 200 NCIL projects have been supported in Brent and all of them are making the borough a better place to live, work and play.”

The Lexi has an amazing reopening schedule to welcome residents back to the cinema. Check out their programme opposite and online at www.thelexicinema.com

Caption to go here.............

ARTS & CULTURE

Opening Programme The Lexi will be hosting two film festivals, funded by the Brent 2020 Culture Fund.

These include Queer East which launches on 5 June and the No Bass Like Home film festival over the summer.

Also in June, the Lexi will be showing THE FATHER which earned Anthony Hopkins an Oscar and BAFTA for Best Actor. This will be followed by SUPERNOVA, a heartfelt drama starring Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci as a long-term couple faced with tragedy, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical show-stopper IN THE HEIGHTS, and Oscar and BAFTA Best Foreign Language film ANOTHER ROUND. Later in the year will see big movies such as the Aretha Franklin biopic RESPECT, DUNE, THE GREEN KNIGHT, WEST SIDE STORY, and James Bond will be back on the big screen with NO TIME TO DIE. All Monday screenings are £7, or £5 for members. Family Fun screenings will continue on selected weekend matinees and school holidays with all tickets just £7.50 for new releases, and £5 for all other releases.

Carer and Baby screenings will be every Wednesday from 11am and at just £7, or £5 for members. All screenings include audio description options with headphones where possible. These are listed on the website.

The Lexi also has great new membership for under-26s. At just £14 a year, it includes one free ticket, £2 off all future tickets, 10% off at the bar and kiosk, and £5 tickets all day on a Monday.

Also, community groups and schools can hire the cinema from just £50 an hour for screen 2.

The Lexi reopened in May 2021

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MY COMMUNITY

We are the champions!

Thandie

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Umesh

Suraj

MY COMMUNITY If you are keen to make a real difference to people’s lives in your community by promoting good health and wellbeing, now is the time to apply to become a volunteer Community Health Champion.

Jasmine

I

n 2020, the biggest health crisis this country has ever faced hit us all hard.

COVID-19 revealed unfair and avoidable health inequalities and the Brent Health Matters programme is fighting to tackle these locally. The Brent Health Matters team is now looking for more Community Champions to help improve the health of local residents. Nobody should have to suffer from COVID-19 more because of their circumstances.

Sharon

The current Community Champions come both from Brent and all over the world. There is Thandie from Zambia, Umesh from Nepal and Suraj from Mumbai - to name a few.

Others, like Sharon and Jasmine, were born right here in Brent. All of them are passionate about their local community. Thandie says, “It’s such a diverse community, and people really value their cultures so much.”

The Champions use their local connections to bridge the gap between the authorities, such as the NHS or council, and the community.

They have been out in the community supporting local people in issues affecting their health, using social media to spread vital information and learning new skills by taking training courses. They are all positive role models. Sharon says, “I have been a listening ear to people.” Umesh says, “Whatever I have learnt from my previous experiences, I am sharing and putting into the Brent community.”

Cllr Neil Nerva, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, Culture and Leisure, said: “I want to thank all of the Community Champions for their amazing work during the worst days of the pandemic. The champions have been invaluable in reaching into parts of the community that big organisations, like the NHS or council, sometimes struggle to reach and provide valuable feedback and knowledge from local communities for us to act on. The champions can provide valuable evidence of the reality of health inequalities for Brent residents, and relate to their experiences”.

If you are interested in the health of your community and passionate about the wellbeing of those around you, then you could become one of our newest Community Champions.

To apply email: brenthealthmatters@ brent.gov.uk YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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HAPPY & HEALTHY

Caring for our young carers

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HAPPY & HEALTHY

Who looks after the 3,000 young carers in the borough?

One family shared their story with us.

Hermina Heder

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It’s great to see the young people all bonding when they meet online.

The group allows them to switch off, have fun and wind down.

H

ubert was five and a half years old when I was diagnosed with PTSD, says Hermina Heder from Neasden.

“My PTSD means I can have panic attacks and severe migraines which often require much needed support from Hubert,” who is now eleven years old.

“Since my diagnosis, Hubert has had to grow up quickly. At a young age he had to deal with me having panic attacks, sometimes twice a day, and would call the doctor or the ambulance to ensure I got the help I needed.”

Last year both Hubert and Hermina caught COVID-19. Although Hubert’s symptoms were milder, Hermina felt ill for almost eight weeks and was seriously affected. Hermina says: “Hubert looked after me completely; regularly providing the remedies and medicines, cooking meals, helping me get dressed and with other daily routines, answering phone calls from doctors or health care workers. He really behaved like an adult and took care of everything.”

Hubert is a regular member of the Brent Young Carer’s support group. Although he’s only met them through Zoom due to the pandemic, it’s something he enjoys doing.

Hubert explains, “I’m able to be myself. I get to chat, socialise and play games with other people in similar situations to me. The group has been really helpful”.

Hermina agrees, “It’s great to see the young people all bonding when they meet online. The group allows them to switch off, have fun and wind down. I definitely can see the positive changes in him since he joined almost nine months ago. Young carers are amazing people with brilliant leaders.

Through their activities, the children don’t even realise how easily they’re gaining new skills and building their confidence.

They are definitely future leaders in their communities.”

More than 3,000 young people under the age of 18 are registered as young carers in Brent. That means they provide essential and ongoing care and support to a family member who may not be able to fully support themselves either physically or mentally.

Brent’s Family Wellbeing Centres work in partnership with the Brent Gateway Partnership, and health and community voluntary sector partners to support young carers across the borough.

Cllr Mili Patel, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Safeguarding, Early Help and Social Care, said: “Our young carers are remarkable young people. Not only do they have to navigate growing up and all the challenges and surprises adolescence may throw at them, they have to do all this while caring for a family member or loved one. In Brent we do all we can to ensure our young carers are well supported, looked after and that they know people care about them too.

If you know any young carers who may need a little extra support, please let us know so we can provide them with the help they may need.”

Brent Gateway Partnership www.brentgateway.org Telephone: 020 3948 0600

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HOUSING

Home run

For two years in a row, Brent has built the most new affordable homes in London. We had a closer look at the figures.

B

This work is part of the council’s commitment to reduce housing waiting lists and homelessness in the borough

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efore the pandemic, the council already had an ambitious affordable housing programme in place to deliver 5,000 affordable homes, including 1,000 new council homes, by 2024.

Thanks to the Housing Team quickly introducing high safety standards on site, homes continued to be built during the pandemic. Around 400 new homes will be built before the end of the year and the council is on course to exceed its new council homes target.

Since the New Council Homes Programme started in 2018, 262 Brent families have moved into newly built council homes. A further 579 homes are on site and 1,668 are in the delivery pipeline. This means that for two years in a row, Brent has had the highest number of homes under construction of any London borough, according to GLA figures.

Cllr Southwood, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform 36

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Out of the homes built so far: 80 households have been able to move out of temporary accommodation 87 council tenants were helped into new homes due to issues such as overcrowding, under occupation, management transfer, permanent decant or medical reasons The council homes that will be completed by the end of 2021 include: 153 homes at Gloucester and Durham, South Kilburn 149 homes at Knowles House, Harlesden 92 homes at Grand Union, Alperton 5 homes at Gloucester Close, Stonebridge

Mrs Keane, a council tenant for 43 years, was desperate to downsize and recently moved into her new home in Willesden. She said, “After my five children flew the nest, I was struggling in the home on my own. I am really happy with a smaller place that saves me money on energy bills, and is easier to keep clean. I also have a lovely patio space for my plants.”

Cllr Southwood, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform, said: “This work is part of the council’s commitment to reduce housing waiting lists and homelessness in the borough, and it’s amazing to hear that 400 families will be seeing in 2022 in their new homes.

“Although the housing crisis has been decades in the making, the council is doing all it can to look for more funding and working with partners to deliver the homes that residents need.”

Mrs Keane enjoying her new home

HOUSING

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MY COUNCIL

I’ll use a lifeline The Resident Support Fund has been a Kensal Rise’s iconic critical lifeline Lexi Cinema islocal back for many with a bang this peopleand since summer is ready to welcome the startmore of film fans thanks to the pandemic, the opening of their andsecond is justscreen. one new of the ways the council is working to create a fairer and more equal Brent.

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I

n August 2020, Brent launched a new Resident Support Fund to help those suffering financial hardship caused by COVID-19. Residents were invited to apply for an interest-free loan, grant or both which could go towards anything from paying off rent arrears to getting access to the internet.

“The Resident Support Fund is a practical way for us to be there for residents experiencing financial difficulty,” says Cllr Southwood, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Welfare Reform.

“It remains a key source of support for people and is just one example of our efforts to tackle inequalities that unfairly affect our communities.

The large number of applications received for the scheme show just how vital this support is and I’m pleased that we’re able to extend it to people who need support for non COVID-related reasons.”

The eligibility criteria has expanded and more people can now apply for the scheme.

While the scheme will continue to support those facing financial difficulties because of the pandemic, applications will also be accepted from those who have been financially impacted in other ways.

If you’re struggling, for whatever reason, please apply at www.brent.gov.uk/ ResidentSupportFund

MY COUNCIL

903

grants approved, totalling

£2,037,038 18

loans approved, totalling

£87,300

487

residents received help with their increased household expenditure, totalling

£391,932

235

digital support packages approved, totalling

£78,580

279 residents received help with paying off debts, totalling

£323,260

257

residents received help with their Council Tax arrears, totalling

£190,051

434

residents received help with their rent arrears, totalling

£821,464

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ARTS & CULTURE

Arts &

>> Theatre >> Music >> Dance >> Comedy >> Exhibitions >> Cinema >> Talks >> Tours

Culture

ALL YEAR BEING BRENT - HERITAGE FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Brent Museum and Archives are delivering Being Brent – a year long community-led programme of heritage for health and wellbeing delivered through National Lottery Heritage Funding support. FREE

www.brent.gov.uk/ museumandarchives

NOW UNTIL 22 AUGUST 2021 ROOTS AND CHANGES – GUJARATI INFLUENCES

Gujaratis are part of a long history of migration from a region that has been shaped by early economic relations in trade, colonialism, educational and professional exchange. Subrang Arts, in collaboration with Brent Museum and Archives, presents a multi-dimensional exhibition, with items on loan from the British

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Museum. This project highlights the influences of the Gujarati diaspora in the UK focussing on the London Borough of Brent and is supported by a series of informative and interactive events.

FREE www.brent.gov.uk/ willesdengreengallery The Exhibition Space, 2nd Floor, The Library at Willesden Green

NOW UNTIL 27 AUGUST 2021 WEMBLEY PARK LIVE

Visitors will be treated to an array of pop-up live music performances at Wembley Park’s new, showstopping Bandstand, which was designed by famed architects Flanagan Lawrence.

Performers on the bandstand will include soloists and duos from the Busk in London roster; talented musicians from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, as well

as Brent-grown talent. Music will range from easy-listening and folk to jazz, classical, showtunes and pop favourites. FREE

wembleypark.com Various times every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Wembley Park

1-31 JULY 2021 KILN THEATRE AND DASHA THEATRICALS PRESENT THE INVISIBLE HAND BY AYAD

22 JUNE-3 JULY 2021

Being Nature - Layla Murga & Andrew Revell

Being Nature showcases a variety of new paintings, sculptures, collages, drawings and photographs all created during the year-long lockdown. The lockdown period became a very productive creative time for both artists, free from the usual distractions and demands of contemporary life.

The contained and isolated nature of the year prompted a new type of freedom allowing artworks to emerge unimpeded. This is their first collaborative exhibition and their work shares an experimental look at what can result when expression and forms are free to surface. FREE

www.brent.gov.uk/ willesdengreengallery Willesden Green Gallery

AKHTAR

American banker Nick Bright knows that his freedom comes at a price. Confined to a cell in rural Pakistan, every second counts. Who will decide his fate?

His captors, or the whims of the market? Following a sold out run in 2016, Kiln Theatre Artistic Director Indhu Rubasingham directs the first major revival of Ayad Akhtar’s tense, thrilling and ‘fiendishly clever’ (Financial Times) The Invisible Hand. FREE

www.kilntheatre.com Kiln Theatre

ARTS & CULTURE 6-17 JULY 2021 LOCKED UNLOCKED - DEREK OGBOURNE, SARAH NEALE AND SIMONE RUSSELL

Uncertainty, anxiety, fear, separation, isolation and loss dominated the once in a lifetime events of 2020/21. As the year unfolded, three local artists mitigated the impact of confinement through the use of physical mark making and expressive painting. Working independently, they produced a collection of large scale dynamic paintings exploring what it is to be human. This exhibition is a celebration of the lexicon of abstract gestural paintings created by these artists over the course of lockdown. FREE

SATURDAY 17 JULY 2021

SUNDAY 25 JULY 2021

ROOTS AND CHANGES - GUJARATI EMBROIDERY MIRROR WORK

INTERNATIONAL BUSKING DAY

Try Gujarati embroidery mirror work lead by Priya Patel and create a piece to take home.

FREE Search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite The Library at Willesden Green 2-4pm

www.brent.gov.uk/ willesdengreengallery Willesden Green Gallery

wembleypark.com

2-8pm

THURSDAY 29 JULY 21

WEDEDNESDAY 7 JULY 2021

THE AYAHS STORY: PIECE ME TOGETHER OR MY STORY’S LOST FOREVER

COFFEE MORNING: PICASSO’S WIVES, LOVERS AND MUSES

Discover the influence of the women in his life on the work of Pablo Picasso at this illustrated talk. FREE

Search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite Online - Zoom 11am-12 noon

Returning to Wembley Park for its third year, International Busking Day is a popular free and familyfriendly day-long celebration of pop-up music and street performances, supported by the Mayor of London and featuring performances by international and home-grown grassroots talent. FREE

20-31 JULY 2021 ESCAPE OLGA KARLOVAC

Olga Karlovac returns to Willesden Gallery to present ‘escape’, a solo exhibition accompanying her latest book by the same name.

The artist takes us on a visual journey through the streets of her Croatian hometown. Rather than documenting famous sights or recognisable characters, Olga Karlovac uses her camera to create lasting impressions of fleeting moments and emotions.

FREE www.brent.gov.uk/ willesdengreengallery Willesden Green Gallery

Award winning author Sita Brahmachari and renowned community activist Farhanah Mamoojee explore their passion for uncovering the untold stories of Ayahs and Amahs (colonial female care-givers) who travelled to the UK from all over the Empire in the 19th century. FREE

Search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite Online - Zoom 6.30pm-7.30pm

under the summer night sky, with a choice of socially distant deckchairs or beanbags for a comfortable experience.

Choose from 18 cinema gems including cult classics, magical musicals, and family favourites.

Best of all, screenings are completely free, so be sure to arrive early for pre-show entertainment, food, drink, and to secure seats. FREE

www.wembleypark.com Wembley Park Boulevard

SATURDAY 21 AUGUST 2021 ROOTS AND CHANGES - A DELICATE WEAVE DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING ‘A delicate weave’ follows four diverse musical journeys drawing on the poetic and musical traditions of Kabir and Shah Bhitai, as well as the folk and crafts traditions of the region. These remarkable musicians and singers bear testimony to how these oral traditions of compassion are being passed down from one generation to the next. The screening of these films is followed by a Q&A with the Directors via video conference

www.monteiro-jayasankar. com FREE Search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite The Library at Willesden Green (Performance Space) – 40 people 11am-4pm

29 JULY3 SEPTEMBER 2021 SUMMER ON SCREEN

Wembley Park’s popular free outdoor cinema, Summer on Screen, will return for five weeks in the Events Pad, across from the London Designer Outlet, on Wembley Park Boulevard.

Visit Summer on Screen for an exceptional outdoor cinematic experience of hand-picked films YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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ARTS & CULTURE

What’s On

>>

COMMUNITY EVENTS

26 June 2021, 12.30-1.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

PLACE OF WELCOME

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE – THE WILD WILD WORD SHOW

The Place of Welcome at Brent Hub provides the community with a place to interact with one another, enjoy games and have engaging conversations.

Wednesdays 10am-12noon Brent Hub Community Enterprise Centre, 6 Hillside, London enquiries@brenthub.co.uk shanara.mackay@brenthub. co.uk 020 3904 1004

Performance Poet Justin Coe has been stuck inside for far too long!

Now he is taking his words for a walk on the wild side, with some unruly rhymes, rowdy songs and silly stories, celebrating life in the big outdoors.

31 July 2021, 1-2pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

ZUMBA GOLD

Latin dance and aerobics class for over-55s in Brent. Increase your muscle strength, alleviate stress, make new friends & have fun! £3 to attend online and £4 to attend onsite Wednesdays, 11am-12pm Online via Zoom and onsite from Wednesday 23 June Contact Bridget Keating, Wellbeing Administrator for more information bridgetk@eldersvoice.org.uk / 020 8206 7503 / www.eldersvoice.org.uk.

READING FRIENDS ONLINE CAFÉ A place where friends meet to read things that please us; poems, recipes or thought-provoking quotes. We look at pictures, share stories and see where the conversation takes us! For over-55s in Brent Tuesdays, 11-11.45am Online via Zoom.

Contact Bridget Keating, Wellbeing Administrator for more information

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your guide

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE - STORYHUNT FUN IN THE JUNGLE!

bridgetk@eldersvoice.org.uk / 020 8206 7503 / www.eldersvoice.org.uk.

BOLDER NOT OLDER

A movement to music class that explores different styles of music and dance like jazz & flamenco – delivered by DanceWest, a community dance organisation. For over-65s in Brent.

Thursdays, 2-2.45pm Online via Zoom and onsite from July.

Free to attend.

Contact Bridget Keating, Wellbeing Administrator for more information bridgetk@ eldersvoice.org.uk / 020 8206 7503 / www.eldersvoice.org.uk.

BRENT WELLBEING GAMES Community Action on Dementia Brent and Silver Jubilee Park invite you and your family to the first ever Wellbeing Games where fun is the order of the day.

Sunday 18 July, 10am-1pm Silver Jubilee Park

CHILDREN’S EVENTS MATHS ON TOAST ‘STAY-IN’ FAMILY SESSION ESCHER INSPIRED TESSELLATIONS Create a pattern on a piece of paper, made up of repeating shapes, without leaving any gaps, spaces or overlaps? That’s a tessellation!

This summer, join storyteller John Kirk on a story hunt through the jungle to explore the wonders of life in the rainforest. Let your imagination run wild as you join a virtual storytelling experience like no other. Jammed packed with intereactive scavenger hunting fun, these sessions are suitable for families with story hunters age 3+.

3 August 11-11.30am Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE - MYTHS, MAGIC AND MYSTERY Margaret Bateson Hill is both author and storyteller and in her virtual sessions, she’ll transport her audience around the world.

Margaret will also involve children in a writing activity or a simple paper cutting activity that links to the Wild World Heroes so have paper and scissors to hand!

ARTS & CULTURE

to what’s on in Brent during Summer 2021 6 August, 11.30am-12.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

FOSTERING

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE - A FUNNY THING HAPPENED!

An evening dedicated to finding out about fostering and looking after vulnerable local children 1 July 2021, 5.15-7.15pm Zoom Contact Catalina Leahu catalina.leahu@brent.gov.uk / 07776 665122

Join Paul Lyalls in his hilarious world of Artistic dogs, amazing rhymes, school playgrounds with angels and a chance to change the world.

12 August 21, 11.30am12.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

ZOOLAB: RAINFOREST Children get to go on a journey through the rainforest - with real rainforest animals and a ranger who really knows the rainforest inside out.

18 August 21 2-3pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE - MAGICAL MONSTOROUS ADORABLE SUPER-POWERED ANIMAL UPGRADE CARTOONING SKILLS! Join bestselling cartoonist and super-experienced tutor James from Crazy Comic Club for an awesome animal-themed cartooning workshop! High energy fun and creativity guaranteed - all you need is a pencil, paper, optional black outlining pen, and lots of imagination! Suitable for ages 7 – 11.

25 August 21 2-3.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

DISCOVER FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENING

DISCOVER FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENING An evening dedicated to finding out about fostering and looking after vulnerable local children 5 August 2021, 5.15-7.15pm Zoom Contact Catalina Leahu catalina.leahu@brent.gov.uk / 07776 665122

FOOD AND MARKETS QUEENS PARK LATES An evening market for all the family.

Fridays 6-10pm Salusbury Road Primary School, Salusbury Road Queens Park Lates

LIBRARY, ARTS AND HERITAGE EVENTS INVISIBLE INK: A FAMILY MEMOIR

London GP, Martha Leigh presents a memoir - ‘Invisible Ink’- drawn from the large archive of her Jewish family from across Europe.

Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite 10 June 2021, 6.30-7.30pm

13 July 2021, 6.30-7.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

COFFEE MORNING: TEENAGE MEMORIES - GROWN UP IN BRENT

INDIAN PERCUSSION BEGINNERS WORKSHOP AND PERFORMANCE

MY DATE WITH DEPRESSION: FROM MENTAL UNCERTAINTY TO SELF-FULFILMENT

SPORTS AND FITNESS

What is your strongest memory of being a teenager? Join us to explore the ‘Grown Up in Brent’ Project.

15 June 2021, 11am-12pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

Join author Kwame MA McPherson for an evening of sharing from his latest book, My Date With Depression.

17 June 2021, 6.30-7.30pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

COFFEE MORNING: PICASSO’S WIVES, LOVERS AND MUSES Discover the influence of the women in his life on the work of Pablo Picasso at this illustrated talk.

7 July 2021, 11.00am-12pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

A JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME: PILGRIMAGE TO MAKKAH Join us as we take a deeper look into why Hajj is a major pillar in Islam and a life changing experience.

Join musicians Vinod Kerai and Ajay Srivastav for a percussion workshop to learn about music and beat counting the classical Indian way.

20 July 2021, 11am-12pm Online, search “Brent Culture Service” on Eventbrite

OURPARKS SESSIONS Get fit for free with Our Parks. Go to www.ourparks.org.uk Various times Various Brent Parks

INSTRUCTOR-LED OUTDOOR GYM TRAINING SESSION Instructor-led training sessions at our outdoor gyms are free and there is no need to book, so come along and join in. www.brent.gov. uk/outdoorgyms Various times Various Brent Parks

HEALTHY WALK PROGRAMME

Explore Brent with a Walk Leader’s led Healthy Walks.

Search “Healthy Walks” on the Brent Council website Various times Various Brent locations

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN BRENT Lamppost banner and roundabout sponsorship sites now available across Brent.

Reach 500,000 people per month Advertise 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Feature on Brent’s most prestigious advertising platform

CALL US TODAY 01422 322255 I info@cpmedia.co.uk I cpmedia.co.uk

Advertise in Brent and you’ll be in great company

SCAFFOLDING

CASH FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS!

Apply now for -

Up to £250,000 for community projects that support regeneration in Brent.

Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy Up to £5,000 towards mutual aid activities or projects that tackle social isolation, improve the environment or help build community relations.

Love Where You Live

Up to £5,000 towards a one off expense such as furniture, equipment and events.

Edward Harvist Fund

To find out more and to apply visit,

www.brent.gov.uk/communitygrants 44

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

BRENT 2020 IN NUMBERS £525,000 INVESTED IN 77 LOCAL PEOPLE AND ORGANISATIONS TO MAKE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

0

446

256

77%

EMPLOYMENT, LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

VOLUNTEERS AND 15,340 PARTICIPANTS HELPED DELIVER AND SHAPE THE YEAR

OF BRENT SCHOOLS ENGAGED WITH THE EDUCATION PROGRAMME AND ITS RESOURCES

D

espite taking place against the backdrop of a global pandemic, Brent came together in 2020 to mark being London Borough of Culture, a reminder of Brent’s spirit of resilience, care and rebellion.

The year began with the story of Brent projected to the world in front of Wembley Stadium, and concluded with an anthem for the borough created with the help of Zoom and 8,000 local young people. It put art on the streets as part of the very first Brent Biennial and the borough’s heroes on our screens, whilst over 71,000 viewers tuned in live for an online reggae festival that travelled from Brent to Jamaica to Florida and back.

The legacy of the year will continue through the work of Metroland Cultures, the charity established to deliver Brent 2020.

Metroland will build on the success of the first ever Brent Biennial and in future years, introduce a borough-wide music event alongside it. These projects will be delivered in partnership with young people through the Metroland University initiative.

In addition, Brent Council has established a new Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP) creating a network of arts and youth organisations, educators and artists working in schools and educational settings across the borough, to ensure that every child has access to arts and culture. The recently refurbished Metroland

0

AN AUDIENCE OF 843,481

1,000,000

1,500 1,021 ARTISTS INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAMME

FOR EVERY £1 SPENT BY BRENT COUNCIL, £2 OF ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT WAS RAISED FROM OTHER FUNDERS

Studio in Kilburn will be the first in a series of free spaces that Brent Council will offer to artists and creatives. Since January, the Studio is home to 14 artists and creatives including Brent Biennial artists Yasmin Nicholas and Adam Farah, Smriti Mehra, Linett Kamala of Lin Kam Arts and the Pesolife Collective. The work of Brent Artist Network, set up as part of Brent 2020 will continue offering opportunities to network, collaborate and grow skills.

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

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CONTACTS

FOR THE LATEST COVID-19 INFORMATION

ACCESS SERVICES ONLINE

www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus

Pay for council tax online www.brent.gov.uk/counciltax

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Make a claim for housing benefit

Call 999 for the police, fire brigade or ambulance services.

Apply for a parking permit www.brent.gov.uk/parking

Call 101 to report a crime that is not an emergency.

Call 111 if you have a medical problem that is not an emergency.

OTHER LOCAL SERVICES Find your local GP using the NHS search tool www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/ LocationSearch/4 If you want to help someone sleeping rough, go to www.streetlink.org.uk If you are worried about domestic abuse, call Advance Brent on 07398 454898 Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm or email brent.admin@advancecharity.org.uk If you are concerned about a child, call Brent Family Front Door on 020 8937 4300

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www.brent.gov.uk/housingbenefit

YOUR BRENT | SUMMER 2021

SUPPORT AVAILABLE C ommunity grants and funding www.brent.gov.uk/funding Financial support www.brent.gov.uk/ coronavirusfinancialsupport

COUNCIL MEETINGS June 14 – Alcohol and Entertainment Licensing Committee 14 – Cabinet 16 – Planning Committee 17 – Schools Forum July 8 – Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee – TBC 12 – Full Council 13 – Joint Committee of the London Boroughs of Brent, Lewisham and Southwark 13 – Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee 14 - Health and Wellbeing Board 19 – General Purposes Committee 19 – Cabinet 21 – Planning Committee 22 – Pension Board 26 – Audit and Standards Advisory Committee August 11 – Planning Committee 16 – Cabinet For more council meetings and the latest information go to www.democracy.brent.gov.uk/councilmeetings

EAST LANE PRIMARY SCHOOL We are delighted to introduce you to our amazing school.

We are a unique primary school that provides strong subject based teaching.

Our Ofsted grades (November 2019): Overall effectiveness: Outstanding The quality of education: Outstanding Behaviour and attitudes: Outstanding We provide a structured, disciplined working environment in which every student receives high-quality teaching.

Teachers are highly qualified in their subject and have a relentless focus on high expectations, high aspirations and excellent academic outcomes for their pupils.

Personal development: Outstanding Leadership and management: Outstanding Early years provision: Outstanding

We have created a happy and caring environment, so that our students are wellrounded young people, and have a passion and love of learning.

Our 12 million pound, state-of- the-art brand new primary school has purpose built classrooms and facilities, learning resource centres for each key stage, Science Laboratories and a Multi-use Games Area.

“Leaders give careful thought to the experiences pupils have to support their wider development.”

Ofsted 2019

Wembley Multi-Academy Trust is comprised of three schools: WEMBLEY HIGH TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE EAST LANE PRIMARY SCHOOL (90 places for Reception in September 2021) NORTH BRENT SCHOOL (at Wembley High until the new school is built)

East Lane Primary School, East Lane, Wembley, Middlesex, HA0 3NT CEO/Executive Headteacher: Ms Gill Bal OBE | Headteacher: Mr Amit Hathi Tel: 020 8289 4600 | Web: www.whtc.co.uk or www.elps.co.uk | Email: admin@whtc.co.uk

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1 IN 3 PEOPLE WITH COVID-19 SHOW NO SYMPTOMS

Variants of concern

are circulat

ing

in Brent!

You could be spreading it and not even know it. brent.gov.uk/covidtesting