Team White City Fanzine - February 2014

PUNK POET John Cooper Clarke returns to cause havoc with words

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WHIP YOUR fanzine FINANCES !

E P A H S O T IN 8 @teamwhitecity teamwhitecity teamwhitecity @lbhf.gov.uk

FEBRUARY 2014 Work Zone

Adult learning and skills service

love to get that perfect job?

Work Zone

Come to our training and jobs fair and discover your perfect match.

VENUE: The Small Hall, Town Hall, King Street, W6 TIME: 11:00-3 :00pm DATE: Friday 14th February ENTRY: FREE ACCESS:

The WorkZone, Westfield London Library Champi ons A recruitment and Support activities in libraries e.g. training facility supporting over 300 reading groups, coffee local people mornings into work every year. and story times Motor Vehicle Recently filled vacancies Maintenance include: Find out about working • Top Shop • Motherca in the re vehicle and repair • Ted Baker • TM industry.

Lewin Mentoring and many more, come and find out about similar vacancies Help people realise and we will their potential, support you through support others to the get and interview process. application and make a differenceback to work .

One Place Hub, Apprenticeship money s matters Find out how to learn while you earn.

Take control of your Childcare finances and learn new ways of saving Working with children money when shopping you is fun and and no two days are the choosing your energy same. provider.

ESOL Urban Futures / RAISE Find out about ESOL Employment and classes 1 skills programmes, 1:00- 3:00 business developm ent and support English reading projects. and writing Learn different reading St George techniques, improve your spelling and formal Live vacancies – various letter writing skills. roles e.g. trades, electrician s, admin etc.

Short taster sessions from Pertemps 11:00-3:00 Live job vacancies across London including H&F Council.

Free entry to raffle H&F Volunteer for centre all those who attend Interested in volunteer ing or need PRIZE £100 gift work experience?

Come and find out card how.

Sponsored by: City of Westmi nster College

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Skills and training for work.

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Hammersmith &

Fulham Council

Considering a career in care?

Find out about live vacancies in West London.

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Work Zone Love to get that perfect job? Check out our ace Valentine’s Day job fair!

YOUR FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS! l Visit your one-stop shop for jobs, training, news, and more>>

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from Dodge the dangers of debt with help © ByDesign – January 2014.

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INSIDE!

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your doorstep

ith 2014 already well underway and the festive season long gone, what better time to get your finances in order?

Paying bills in the weeks after Christmas can seem an even bigger challenge than usual – but there is now more help than ever to help you stay on track and avoid the pitfalls of debt.

Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about how to save or apply for an affordable loan with the London Plus Credit Union, who are challenging payday lenders at their own game.

And with expert advice from the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, who are now offering regular support sessions in White City, you can relieve the stress of PAGES financial anxiety more easily than you might think.

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TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

TEAM WHITE CITY INDEX l GET ONLINE! Check out the new website for news, views and plenty of jobs...Pages 6-7 l MAKE A DATE The Citizens’ Advice Bureau comes to the community centre..Pages 8-9 l SAINTS WORK Love to find a perfect job? Visit a Valentine’s Day job fair.........Pages 18-19 l BIG BASH A year of action is ready to kick off with help from Emma.........Pages 20-21

ABOUT US! l Everyone who lives in White City is a team member.

We all have a role to play and responsibilities to our neighbours.

Team White City is about creating a much better partnership between local people and your public services, including the council, police, health and employment support.

This is your neighbourhood and together we can make it even better, making the most of all the opportunities that exist and creating new ones.

Join the team by following us on Twitter @teamwhitecity, looking us up on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ teamwhitecity or by emailing: teamwhitecity@lbhf. gov.uk to sign up for our regular e-newsletter.

The Team White City fanzine is produce in association with White City Neighbourhood Forum and is supported by: l For more details or to get involved in the Team White City fanzine email: teamwhitecity @lbhf.gov.uk or call Dan Hodges on 020 8753 2127

The credit union team of Lauren Graham, chief executive Cheryl Gale, Perry Banks, Leon Graham and Reece Billingham in Fulham

Your local credit union is helping people win the battle against payday lenders

well-known online lender will add £97.15 to a £300 loan if it is paid back in 30 days, London Plus Credit Union charges just £6.70 to borrow the same amount over the same period.

That’s because, unlike commercial operators, the not-for-profit credit union, t first glance, the based in North End Road, London Plus Credit Fulham, works to support its Union website seems members and familiar – move avoid them the slider to the spiralling into amount of money uncontrolled to borrow, and see debt. how much you’ll Chief have to pay back. executive But look closer Cheryl Gale and you’ll see said: “If you’re the amount of a middle interest added income earner l Applying for credit is dramatically and you think union membership lower than that you need a or a loan is quick and charged by bit of extra easy online at: www. typical payday money, you londonpluscu.co.uk or lenders. might see an call 020 7471 2620 Where one

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DEAL!

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

MY STORY

l Mary tells of her loan nightmare...

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Dan Hodges

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Editor Team White City Fanzine

lthough today’s tough economic climate might show signs of improvement, many of us continue to face daily struggles to stay on top of our finances.

With payday lenders, credit card companies and others lining up to offer expensive loans, it can be hard to know who to trust – but there is real support out there that won’t end up costing the earth.

This edition of your Team White City Fanzine has been put together to help you find the support you need to stay on track money-wise, dodge the dangers of debt and give your finances a fresh start.

In the borough, the London Plus Credit Union is working hard to offer THIS services like EDITION affordable CAN HELP loans, pre-pay YOU FIND debit cards THE and savings SUPPORT accounts YOU NEED to people TO STAY who might ON TRACK otherwise MONEY-WISE find themselves cut off from financial support.

Located in central Fulham, the credit union has blazed a trail on how to help the local community, rather than maximise its profits.

Meanwhile, the Citizens Advice Bureau has launched regular sessions in White City for those who are struggling with money problems related to housing, while offering free advice and support on a whole range of issues from its Uxbridge Road base.

Combined with the launch of the Team White City website, Moa’s top tips for losing weight and feeling great, information about exciting new projects in the neighbourhood, plus the latest on local jobs and all that’s happening in W12, we hope you find everything you need in this edition of the Team White City Fanzine to make the best of 2014.

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payday loan – it looks nice and easy and the money will be in your account within 10 minutes.

“But as soon as your bank sees you’ve accessed services from a payday lender, it drags down your credit score and you can become financially excluded. I’ve seen it happen to so many people, it’s scary.”

Affordable loans of up to £2,000 are just one of the services it provides – members can also build up savings, such as by setting aside some of their regular benefit payments.

It also offers pre-pay Visa cards, which can be used to buy goods in shops and online, giving many people a lifeline when it comes to taking advantage of the best deals.

Anyone who applies for a loan will be carefully assessed through the credit union’s

own system, which takes account of the fact that many people will be in difficult situations with nowhere else to go.

Along with the dangers of payday lenders and loan sharks, Cheryl also warns against high street shops advertising cash for gold – where people may also be encouraged to take out expensive loans.

“People are giving up jewellery of sentimental value which is just going to be melted down – that’s a difficult thing to see,” she said.

“When people have a need to borrow, be it for an emergency or just to buy something nice, they should look at us first.

“Loans are at good rates that are not going to make people poorer or force them to sell their family gold.”

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HOW I GOT LOAN HELP The money that the credit union saved me I’ve used on my kids, says local mother-of-five Mary

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mum of five from Shepherds Bush is one of dozens being helped by her local credit union Before discovering the credit union, Mary ran up debts on credit cards and through catalogues, and found bills increasing difficult to meet.

A local tenant of Shepherds Bush Housing, she and her partner are unemployed – together they are raising five children and are completely reliant on benefits.

Bringing up a young family is tight, so when she

was no longer able to get mainstream borrowing, Mary turned to Provident.

She took out her first loan for a small amount, and never asked about or understood the high interest rates.

When Christmas came and the need to borrow more came with it, Mary soon realised the trap she was in – a £1000 loan from Provident cost her more than £1800 to repay. “It nearly killed me to repay it,” said Mary.

One day a friend introduced her to the London Plus Credit Union.

Mary said: “I was not sure at first, but when I went to the office in Fulham, the staff were really friendly and made everything simple.

“I understood everything they said and it all made sense, so I joined and applied

l To find out more about how London Plus Credit Union can help you visit: www. londonpluscu.co.uk or call 020 7471 2620

for my first loan on the same day. I was so happy when they agreed a £500 loan and could not believe how little the interest was that I had to pay back – just £31.64.

“Having my child benefit diverted to repay the loan has saved me from a lot of worry, as everything is taken care of for me.

“At the same time I have been able to save a little along the way, and I don’t have someone knocking at my door asking for money.

“Without London Plus Credit Union I would not have been able to buy the things I really needed for the home, or have a family holiday.

“The money I’ve saved by borrowing from them, instead of Provident, I’ve been able to use on my kids.”

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MY WHITE CITY q Do

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

W12

How long have you lived or worked in the area?

One year – we moved here from Fulham!

What do you do for a job?

I run the Gates Driving School.

Can you describe your typical day?

I get the kids ready and take them to school in Fulham, then work until it’s time to pick them up from school, go home, cook dinner and bath the kids, then spend some time with them and put them to bed.

What are the best things about being here?

It’s peaceful and all the neighbours are friendly and helpful. Overall, it’s a nice area.

Welcome! She’s a relative newcomer, but 38-year-old driving instructor Vickie Ambrose has recently moved to the area with her family. She gives us her first impressions

What would you most like to change about the area?

It would be good if there were more free activities for young kids, something upbeat to get them off the streets. There should be more programmes to help them with their future, such as skills workshops.

How do you relax and unwind?

I like relaxing on the sofa with my family.

What are your personal hopes for the future?

I love to help others, whether they’re children or the elderly. I love teaching, I recently went into a classroom to teach school pupils about road safety awareness, and I loved it. I had a great connection with them. I also love planning and organising events, and am very good at it too, so there may be something there.

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Team White City is online Website launch opens up new digital opportunities in W12

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NEW website has been launched which serves as a one-stop resource for people in White City and Shepherds Bush – including those who are less confident online.

You can visit teamwhitecity.org to see the latest local job vacancies, follow quick links to pay bills, learn about community activity and events, have a say on local issues and find out about support and opportunities available on the doorstep.

The website is packed with news, features and information that reflect the diverse character of our neighbourhood, and it is designed to be eyecatching, easy to use and jargon-free.

A jobs board lets employers post new vacancies in a few easy steps, and an interactive map lets you explore the neighbourhood and click on key locations to find out about employment support, education, community groups and health and fitness facilities.

Councillor Marcus Ginn, Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s cabinet member for community care, said: “Team White City’s website does not just look fantastic, it represents an entirely new approach that will connect more people to local services, helping them to harness the power of the internet while exploring new opportunities.”

Community organisations are being encouraged to contribute their own material to the website and to help play a part in its on-going development.

Giles Piercy, chair of the White City Enterprise, an independent social enterprise set up to manage projects in the area, said: “The Team White City website looks fresh, modern, accessible and inviting, and is a fabulous new resource for the community.”

Visit teamwhitecity.org

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

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How much do you know about W12?

Are you up to speed on everything that’s happening in our neighbourhood?

Test your local knowledge in our new year quiz visit : teamwhitecity.org/white-city-buzz

Find out about what the Team White City website can offer you – visit

teamwhitecity.org

today on your smart phone, tablet or computer.

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TEAM TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE

Expert advice The borough’s Citizens Advice Bureau is strengthening its support for local people, with regular appointments now offered at the White City Community Centre

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HEN there’s no money left and the bills keep piling up, what can you do to keep from going under?

According to the experts at the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), the best idea is to take the bull by the horns and work it out yourself. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t also seek advice from a specialist – and with the CAB now offering one-to-one support during regular sessions at the White City Community Centre, help has never been closer to hand.

Clarissa Stoneham, manager of the CAB in Hammersmith & Fulham, said: “All of our projects are based on one fundamental principle, which is helping people to help themselves. We’re trying to help families become proactive in seeking solutions to their problems.

“The stark reality is that many people face a choice between heating and eating. But due to a lack of awareness, for example, older people are often not taking up the benefits they’re entitled to.

“We can help people with things like prioritising bills – if the choice is between paying council tax and rent or the bill for subscription TV, we can help you think about the difference.

“The message is simple – live within your means.”

Monthly advice days in White City are focused on issues related to housing. And for anything that falls outside that area, there is the CAB office a short walk away in Uxbridge Road, near the junction with Bloemfontein Road.

Von Oyeye, who runs the sessions at the community centre, said: “There was one lady who came in with a housing benefit issue – she didn’t understand why it was so low. “It was down to the

fact that she had four adults living in the house with her. I explained that she needed to talk to her adult children about contributing, or they’d all end up on the streets.

“The message is simple – live within your means.”

“After that she came all the way over to our office in West Kensington, just to thank me and to say they’d all agreed to contribute.”

ROOF – Supporting renters, owners, occupiers and families If you’re struggling with rent arrears, household bills and council tax, help is at hand through the Citizens Advice Bureau ROOF programme, which offers in-depth, oneto-one support on housingrelated issues.

Advisors can help you put together paperwork and apply for debt relief, and can offer advice on everything from budgeting and saving for the future to welfare reform and how to choose energy suppliers. Call 020 3137 6294 or email: roof@hfcab.org.uk to find out more.

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

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Are you interested in being trained to help others as a CAB volunteer? More than half of the borough’s volunteers go on to paid employment – visit: www.hfcab.org.uk to download an application form.

FIX YOUR FINANCES

The Advice Centre at 338 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush, W12 7LL, is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 1pm.

To find about appointments in White City call Mary on 020 8743 4545.

To ask about an appointment with a CAB advisor call 020 7385 1322 or email: advice@hfcab.org.uk

Specialists at the CAB can help you cut your debt, reduce energy bills, dodge scams, get what you’re entitled to and make your money go further.

Its advisors can connect you with the London Plus Credit Union, which offers a safe, ethical place to save money and affordable loans.

You can also get one-to-one support for any issues with benefits, making ends meet, personal debts, gas and electric bills, unexpected financial problems and general money management.

To find out more about the FIX programme call Erel Onojobi on 020 3137 6290 and leave a message with your phone number and she will get back to you. Alternatively, email: erel.onojobi @hfcab. org.uk

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This experience has made me more business-minded

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fter leaving school, 19-year-old Shamicka Denis tried a number of different jobs until she found an apprenticeship that suited her ambitions.

The West Kensington teenager spoke to Sheree Edwards about her experience so far.

>> I left school at 16 and went straight into work. I worked at quite a few designer clothes shops and department stores, but I didn’t enjoy it and I never really felt retail was for me – mainly because of the management style, although I loved working with the customers.

I always liked the idea of working in an office. I thought that a business administration apprenticeship would be just right. I went on to the Apprenticeships website and saw a position advertised at an estate agent, where I went on to work for five months.

I learnt a lot about the different types of contracts and about the relationship between the landlord and tenant, but there was no proper structure to how work was given to me.

I left the firm and after three months of claiming Job Seekers Allowance, I was offered a chance to do some volunteer work for Hammersmith & Fulham Council.

I was placed at the One Place hub, which was a great experience, and the people I worked with were very helpful and supportive. One of the job brokers, Simon, put me forward for an apprenticeship a the council, and I was taken on as a Level 3 apprentice working at the Job Centre in Hammersmith.

I find the work very challenging, but I also find it very interesting and intriguing as it allows my skills to develop. No day is the same - I enjoy interacting with the customers and different managers, and I’m learning a lot about welfare reform.

Outside work I enjoy going to the gym, shopping and spending time with family and friends. At first it was hard juggling work, college and my personal life, but as time has gone on I am able to adapt and manage my time better.

This experience has helped me become a more business-minded person, and I feel that I have found the perfect job to develop and continue my career in the business world.

ahead

To find out about apprenticeships and work experience opportunities, call Clare Edgson on 020 8753 4053 or email: clare. edgson@lbhf.gov.uk

Get onboard and earn while you learn Are you looking for some quality work experience and the chance to gain a qualification? Perhaps you have recently left school or college or you’re unemployed.

An apprenticeship with H&F Council could be just the thing to get your career moving.

Apprentices come from all walks of life and are all ages. The H&F programme offers apprentices work experience four days a week alongside one day a week attending college.

The council offers all kinds of roles for apprentices, including health and social care, business administration, retail and also construction site apprenticeships.

Previous apprentices have a high success rate of finding full-time employment on completion of the programme. For details please email: clare.edgson@lbhf.gov.uk

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

19-year-old Shamicka Denis

“I find the work very challenging, but I also find it very interesting and intriguing as it allows my skills to develop.”

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Lighter living Is your New Year’s resolution to lose weight? Moa ElvermarkGalloway, community nutritionist at Phoenix High School, has five steps to help you lose the pounds

IPS! T P O T 5 r 30 five days a week fo 1> Try to exercise n’t have to go to the minutes. You do st as good. gym – walking is ju et. from your daily di 2> Cut out 250 kcal lent of a bar of milk This is the equiva lager, three chocolatechocolate, a pint of o-and-a-half tw coated biscuits or butter. or l oi of tablespoons w fat iry products for lo 3> Swap full-fat da l glass of whole milk (blue versions. A 250m i-skimmed (green top) is top) is 175kcal, sem ed (red top) is 90kcal.

125kcal and skimm g will getable intake. Ve 4> Increase your veof important vitamins, give you plenty They are also low in . minerals and fibre to bulk out your meals. em th e us so , gy er en erything ary. Write down ev 5> Keep a food di is will give you an overview that you eat. Th so you can improve , of your food intake tackle any bad habits. to y tr d an et di your

Moa runs regular w management even eight the White City Com ing sessions at m you need some he unity Centre. If lp with your diet or if you would lik e sessions, call Moa to register for the on 07972 825 422 or email moa@ph oenix.lbhf.sch.uk

Community nutritionist Moa ElvermarkGalloway is an expert in how to eat healthily and shed pounds

TEAM WHITE CITYTEAM FANZINE WHITE CITY FANZINE

Pasta perfection The latest entry in the White City Cookbook comes from local teenager Rosa Allam, who was taught this delicious version of spaghetti Bolognese by her mum

Rosa Allam’s Spaghetti Bolognese INGREDIENTS: 1 tbsp of olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 3 slices Parma ham, chopped 250g lean minced lamb 400g tinned green lentils, with no added salt, drained 400g tinned plum tomatoes, in natural juice 2 medium carrots, diced 2 tbsp tomato puree 2 tbsp oregano, chopped plus extra to garnish 280g spaghetti, snapped in half freshly grated parmesan, to serve

DIRECTIONS: Rosa Allam and her spaghetti bolognese

• First, heat the oil in a large saucepan, then add the chopped onion and garlic and fry for 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and starting to colour.

• Mix in the chopped Parma ham and fry for another 2 minutes, then stir in the mince and cook for a several minutes, stirring to break it up, until it is no longer pink.

• Add the lentils, tomatoes, carrots, tomato puree and the oregano, some pepper and a pinch of salt.

• Fill the empty tomato can 1/3 full with water, swill it around to gather the remaining tomato juice and pour into the pan.

• Stir together, breaking up the tomatoes, and then bring to a simmer.

• Half cover the pan with a lid and simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring every now and then.

• Just before you are ready to serve, cook the spaghetti in a large saucepan of boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain well.

• Serve the spaghetti topped with the Bolognese sauce, extra oregano and a little parmesan.

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Work Zone

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Enterprising

ideas If you dream of starting your own business, find out how to make it a reality with suport from H&F Enterprise Club

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any of us daydream about starting up our own business – but actually getting an idea off the ground can be a very different matter.

That’s why it’s important to listen to those who have already been through it and can offer useful advice to anyone who is thinking of venturing out on their own.

H&F Enterprise Club meets once a month in Hammersmith, bringing local business owners together to talk shop and to help others who would like to be in the same position.

If you have an idea for a business that you’d like to develop or test out on the experts, come along to the free meetings at the Macbeth Centre in Macbeth Street, Hammersmith, W6 9JJ, from 6pm to 8pm on these dates: Wednesday, March 19 Wednesday, April 16

H&F MEANS BUSINESS

Wednesday, March 12 9.00am – 5.00pm

If you’re the owner of an established business, self-employed or just starting out as an entrepreneur, come along to a free one-day business event at Hammersmith Town Hall.

H&F Means Business gives you the chance to network with hundreds of representatives from local businesses and take advantage of free advice and support.

To register visit : www.hammersmithandfulhammeansbusiness.co.uk

ahead H&F Business Desk offers detailed local knowledge and a wealth of information to help your business idea take root and grow. To sign up for the Enterprise Club or speak to the Business Desk team, call 020 8753 5585 or email: business-support@lbhf.gov.uk

Furnish@West12 Re-use furniture shop

Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am - 6pm Good quality, affordable re-used furniture Many unusual and unique items Stock is changing on a daily basis Decorative items as well as bric-a-brac and clothes

Furnish@West12 Ground floor West 12 Shopping Centre Shepherds Bush Green London W12 8PP 020 8749 4031 www.Furnishwest12.co.uk follow us on Twitter: Furnish@west12 Charity number: 292110

Delivery service available

25% off selected items* e eiv rec d an ng alo t ver ad s thi ng Bri 2/13. Only one voucher per

ish@West12. Offer ends 21/1 This discount is only available at Furn ked “ND�. Not valid in items, delivery charge and items mar new on t person and visit. No discoun apply. or discount. Terms and conditions conjunction with any other offer

Work Zone

Adult learning and skills service

t a h t t e g l o ve t o ? b o j t c e f r pe ir ning and jobs fa Come to our trai r perfect match. and discover you

VENUE: The Small Hall, Town Hall, King Street, W6 TIME: 11:00-3:00pm DATE: Friday 14th February ENTRY: FREE ACCESS:

Hammersmith & Fulham Council

The WorkZone, Westfield London

Library Champions

A recruitment and training facility supporting over 300 local people into work every year.

Recently filled vacancies include: • Top Shop • Ted Baker

• Mothercare • TM Lewin

Support activities in libraries e.g. reading groups, coffee mornings and story times Motor Vehicle Maintenance Find out about working in the vehicle and repair industry.

Mentoring

and many more, come and find out about similar vacancies and we will support you through the application and interview process.

Help people realise their potential, support others to get back to work and make a difference.

One Place Hub, money matters

Find out how to learn while you earn.

Take control of your finances and learn new ways of saving you money when shopping and choosing your energy provider.

Urban Futures / RAISE Employment and skills programmes, business development and support projects.

St George Live vacancies – various roles e.g. trades, electricians, admin etc.

Pertemps Live job vacancies across London including H&F Council.

Apprenticeships Childcare Working with children is fun and no two days are the same.

ESOL Find out about ESOL classes 1 1:00- 3:00 English reading and writing Learn different reading techniques, improve your spelling and formal letter writing skills.

Short taster sessions from 11:00-3:00

Free entry to raffle for

H&F Volunteer centre

all those who attend

Interested in volunteering or need work experience? Come and find out how.

PRIZE £100 gift card Sponsored by:

Skills and training for work.

Home Instead Considering a career in care?

Find out about live vacancies in West London.

© ByDesign – January 2014.

15_111jcw.

City of Westminster College

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Ready for Big Local kicks off a year of activity with the Big Bash on February 27

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fter lots of talk, meetings and planning, Wormholt and White City’s Big Local is finally ready to start making things happen.

First out of the blocks will be the Big Bash, a community fun day at the White City Community Centre that will launch a year of activity in our neighbourhood.

Beat the winter blues by joining in the excitement, with free food for all the family, pedalpowered fruit smoothies and grow-your-own stir fries courtesy of Phoenix School Farm, plus face painting, competitions, street dance sessions and circus skill workshops.

You can also find out about the new Big Local Community Chest Fund, which will enable you to apply for between £10 and £3,500 to support your community activity or project.

Meet Emma Morgan – your new Big Local Community Manager Emma started out working in her own community, North Westminster’s Queen’s Park and Mozart estates. She has worked with young people on employment and apprenticeships and managed a successful community advice service.

Some of Emma’s achievements as a resident and project manager include being part of the Go Queen’s Park Campaign, supporting the first Urban Parish Council in London, and setting up a local community group against serious youth violence.

Emma said: “This is such an exciting time to be in the White City area. There is so much opportunity to make a positive and lasting

change. In many ways, White City is not too dissimilar to the community in which I grew up, and continue to live. There is a positive vibe here, and I’m really looking forward to working with local people as they shape their community, making it an even better place to live.”

Emma will be based at the White City Community Centre and hopes to establish an informal drop-in once a week for local people to pop in and ask any questions they may have about Big Local.

Contact Emma on 07817 839 500 or email emma@whitecityenterprise. com

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

action!

The Big Bash is just the beginning, with many projects being developed this year to shape our community and address the Big Local priorites that have been set by local people.

Come along to find out about the plans – and how you can help get them off the ground.

Your priorities include: 1) A befriending service 2) Better open spaces 3) Improving the lives of families and children 4) More training and employment opportunities for young people and adults 5) Building skills and abilities of local residents to run their own communities 6) Improving community safety

Thursday, February 27 3.30pm to 6.30pm White City Community Centre, India Way, W12 7QT

The pedal powered smoothie-maker in action at a past event in White City

Emma Morgan, who began work as the Big Local Community Manager in January

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Neighbourhood Mums and Dads New support network will train volunteers to help other local parents

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ecoming a parent is usually a huge lifestyle change – and a little help can go a long way.

Thankfully, there are other parents around who have already been through it, and who can offer their support and advice at times when it’s most needed.

That’s the idea behind a new project launching in the White City estate, though which parents who are willing to share their expertise are asked to give up three hours a week to support another family.

Neighbourhood Mums and Dads, which has been developed through White City Enterprise and Team White City, is now looking for the first group of five volunteers to start training.

It will be based at the White City Community Centre and is being led by the new parent network coordinator, Sarah Bateman, who has an 18-monthold daughter and has past experience of supporting families and running parenting programmes in other parts of London.

Sarah said: “Neighbourhood Mums and Dads involves volunteers who are experienced parents, who are able to support a family who may be isolated or have just moved to the area recently.

“Some parents may just need a bit of extra support to juggle family life and to manage different children’s needs, and it’s also about helping families to access services and supporting them as a unit.”

Initially, the families being supported will have a child under the age of five and will be referred to Sarah by the Randolph Beresford Children’s Centre, having already had some formal support.

Sarah said: “We’ll be looking at offering to continue some of the things that have already been put in place – it might be helping them to go to antenatal classes, or to spend quality time with the family.

“Volunteers can have a big impact

on a family’s life. They may help reduce isolation, stress, and release the potential in parents to help them with their children’s emotional and physical development.”

Ideally, volunteers will be local people who are parents themselves – but apart from also having a sympathetic ear, no further qualifications are needed.

Sarah hopes to attract volunteers who

“Some parents may just need a bit of extra support to juggle family life and to manage different children’s needs.” are good at listening and helping people find solutions to their problems, and who can commit to being available for three hours a week over six months.

Training will include an accredited mentoring course, parenting skills, boundaries, listening skills, safeguarding, developing empathy and confidentiality.

Sarah said: “I hope that families will feel more empowered, and as parents that they feel more able to access services and feel more comfortable and confident with their volunteers.

“For the volunteers, I hope that once they have finished their training, they really grasp what it is to be a parent mentor, and that they enjoy doing it.”

Sarah Bateman, parent network coordinator, will run the Neighbourhood Mums and Dads project from the White City Community Centre

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

What’s involved?

Neighbourhood Mums and Dads is a free, caring, nonjudgmental and confidential service for any family living on the White City estate. Its volunteers will be trained to help with: Getting to appointments Establishing routines Using local services or specialist support Getting involved with the community Encouraging play and reading with children Listening to parents’ worries, concerns and hopes Sharing experiences of parenting and family life Providing advice, support, friendship and encouragement

To find out about volunteering for Neighbourhood Mums and Dads, call Sarah Bateman on 020 8811 2494 or 07531 307 893, or email: sarah@whitecityenterprise.com

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Cutting crime

Police figures show crime is down in W12 – and a new shared approach will work to make people feel even safer

Main picture: police and PCSOs on patrol on the White City estate. Above, PC Lydia Otoo ƥ Wormholt & White City

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

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Number crunching: Crime in White City and Shepherds Bush in 2013 VIOLENCE AGAINST THE PERSON DOWN 7.4% (677 offences)

SEXUAL OFFENCES DOWN 19.4% (54 offences)

THEFT AND HANDLING DOWN 6.3% (2,496 offences)

CRIMINAL DAMAGE DOWN 27.3% (141 offences)

ROBBERY DOWN 23.8% (96 offences)

FRAUD AND FORGERY DOWN 93.2% (15 offences)

C

TOTAL CRIME DOWN 9.4%

BURGLARY UP 18.5% (141 offences)

DRUG RELATED OFFENCES UP 15.7% (391 offences)

OTHER CRIMES UP 28.4% (95 offences)

(4,106 offences)

rime in our neighbourhood fell by nearly 10 per cent last year, including a sharp drop in the number of robberies.

Levels of violent crime, sexual offences, theft , fraud and criminal damage also all fell significantly, while the number of people caught possessing drugs went up by more than 15 per cent.

Across the whole of the White City Opportunity Area, which includes the White City estate, Wood Lane estate, Batman Close, Charecroft estate and roads surrounding Shepherds Bush Green, total reported crime fell by 9.4 per cent in the 12 months to December.

The number of robberies fell by more than a quarter to 86, an average of one every four days.

Nearly two thirds of crime recorded across the opportunity area – 63 per cent – took place in the busy area around Westfield London shopping centre

DATA: Met Police, Jan-Dec 2013 compared to Jan-Dec 2012 and Shepherds Bush Green.

In that area, which also includes BBC Media Village and most of the Wood Lane estate, there were 50 robberies and 1,867 incidents of theft, including 762 thefts from shops, 253 thefts from people and 180 bicycle thefts.

On the White City estate, just 56 thefts, 15 robberies and 17 home burglaries were reported in the same period.

The biggest local drop in crime was in the area surrounding Shepherds Bush Market, including Pennard Road, Lime Grove and Frithville Gardens, where the total number of offences fell by 26 per cent. Levels of violence, sexual offences, theft, robbery and criminal damage were all significantly lower than in 2012.

The overall fall in crime reflects a similar pattern nationally and across the whole of Hammersmith & Fulham, which saw a drop of 16 per cent in 2013.

Are you interested in joining a virtual panel of residents who are involved in local policing? Email: teamwhitecity@lbhf.gov.uk

Tackling crime together Team White City has brought together residents, the police, the council and other agencies to agree a shared approach to tackling crime and antisocial behaviour, making our neighbourhood an even safer place to live or work.

All those involved have signed up to work more closely together, using a range of agreed tactics over the coming months.

The aims are to increase public confidence and feelings of safety by communicating more effectively and to cut the number of crimes and incidents of anti-social behaviour that are seen as priorities by the community.

Team White City will help set up a panel made up of residents to ensure local people have real involvement in local policing.

Other priorities will include developing more joint operations, checking CCTV coverage, increasing the presence of Neighbourhood Watch, developing a Business Watch scheme and tackling drug dealing.

All agencies will also work to increase people’s willingness to report crime confidentially, make the most of community payback initiatives, improve the prospects of offenders who are given short sentences, and make sure all those involved in the justice system follow a joined-up approach.

Your route into the construction business Get the cer ti fica tio n yo u n e e d plus Work s kills level 1

If you are interested in working in construction then you will need the Construction Skills Certificate Scheme card (CSCS) Hammersmith & Fulham Council in partnership with Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College are offering residents an accredited course to gain a CSCS card (which is required by law to work on a construction site).

FREE TRAINING

This two-day course is suitable for those in receipt of active or inactive benefits who are looking for work.

Training in grounds maintenance, estates and housing management is being offered to 40 local residents by H&F’s housing management contractor, Pinnacle – including four full apprenticeships.

Courses takes place over four consecutive half days in Spring 2014.

Course dates

GET IN TOUCH

February 24, March 24 & April 28. Please ask about additional start dates. There is a twohour enrolment prior to the course start date.

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

If you’re interested in gaining practical experience and exploring job opportunities within housing, call Clare Edgson on 020 8753 4053 or email: clare.edgson@lbhf.gov.uk

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

Skills for Life

Build your confidence with courses at the Adult Community Learning Centre

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y taking steps to improve your spoken English or brush up on essentials skills like reading, writing, maths and IT, you can build your confidence and improve your prospects.

Courses are offered in the heart of the White City estate, at the Adult Community Learning Centre in Australia Road, next to the Ark Swift Primary Academy – and many are free to those on benefits.

If you’ve been out of education for a while and would like to give it another go, you

could be supported to improve your spoken English, reading, writing, grammar, punctuation and spelling, as well as your understanding of maths and computers.

Courses last for 17 weeks with the next round due to start on Monday, February 24 2014.

If you would like to sign up, all you need to do is book a slot for a short, informal interview with the adult learning team.

Please bring your passport and any letters confirming your benefits that are not older than three months.

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ahead O Call 020 8753 6252 to arrange an appointment at the Adult Learning Community Centre, between 12.30pm and 3pm on any Monday until March 24.

O A drop-in session will be held on Friday, February 21, from 9.30am to 4pm.

Help is at hand at the Adult Community Learning Centre z ESOL courses are designed to help you develop your English skills if it’s your second language. If you’re working, the cost of a 17-week accredited course is £187.

Reading, writing, ICT and maths courses will help you develop your basic skills, whether English is your first or second language.

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In harmony Harmony Neighbourhood Nursery has grown to reflect the real diversity of White City – and its managers plan to build on that strength as they look to the future

W

hen Harmony Neighbourhood Nursery first opened its doors on the White City estate, the aim was to bring childcare within the reach of local families on low incomes.

That continues to be a priority 13 years later, with weekly fees around 30 per cent cheaper than the average for inner London.

But as more and more parents struggle to find good quality, affordable childcare, and with thousands more people due to move into the area in the coming years, Harmony’s waiting list continues to expand with families from all walks of life.

Manager Jana Hassan, who launched the nursery in a former social services building in Australia Road, said: “I hear more and more people say they’re thinking about renting somewhere in White City. Before, nobody would have considered it, but that’s not the case any more.

“Each week we have up to 10 people calling about places or coming to look around, and our waiting list at the moment is not less than eight months.

We’re always thinking about expanding.”

While White City might be changing, Jana says the neighbourhood remains close-knit and welcoming to all who are willing to put any prejudices aside.

She said: “I worked in White City before, in 1989, and I’ve always had fond memories and a good relationship with the community. The moment people trust you, that’s it – you feel part of the family. Our nursery reflects the community. Out of 44 children we have about eight who are white British, and the rest are mixed heritage or from other ethnic backgrounds.

“It’s important to have a mix of cultures and people in different economic situations.”

More than half of the nursery’s staff – nine out of 17 – are local to the White City estate, including some who are studying early years apprenticeships to help them find a foothold in the childcare industry.

It’s important to have a mix of cultures and people in different economic situations.

Harmony’s priority is helping mothers who have to go back to work, so only full-time places are offered for under-twos, although part-time places are available for over-twos.

“Certainly, for the parents who are in higher education, they wouldn’t be able to go to college if we weren’t here, which would mean they have fewer opportunities,” said Jana.

“Many parents who are working would not be able to continue without us.

“For the past few years we’ve been totally self-funded. We get a subsidy on our rent from the local authority and we continue working with them as a partner, otherwise there would be no way for us to offer that affordability.”

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

“Each week we have up to 10 people calling about places or coming to look around.”

Harmony Neighbourhood Nursery

The facts

For children aged 1 to 5 Open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, 50 weeks per year Registration fee of £10 to be added to the waiting list Fees are £210 per week for under-2s, £184 per week or £48 per day for children aged 2 to 5

Most parents qualify for subsidised fees through Child Tax Credit or childcare vouchers

Children aged 3 or 4 are eligible for the Nursery Education Grant, worth £678.30 per term and paid three times per year

Harmony Neighbourhood Nursery manager Jana Hassan, right, with deputy manager Shandia Chua

Contact the nursery on 020 8743 2089 or email: info@harmonynursery.co.uk to ask about a place.

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Adult learning and skills service

Do you want to learn more English or maths?

Adult Community Learning Centre (ACLC) (Next to Swift Ark Primary Academy – formerly Canberra Primary School) Australia Road, White City Estate, W12 7PT

Adult Adultlearning learning and andskills skills service service

DOOR SKILLS DOOR SUPERVISION SUPERVISION SKILLS This course will provide learners within Take a first step towards a career concrete knowledge understanding the private securityand industry with this oflevel the security 1 awardindustry. qualification and work as a door supervisor or security It allows learners to choose security guard. guarding, door supervision or CCTV The course will also help you to develop broad transferable skills such as customer operations.

In addition, it develops learners’ service and problem broad transferable skillssolving. such as customer service solving. H&F resident If youand are problem an unemployed who is actively seeking work, will This qualification is intended for we people contribute to the cost of your SIA who want to work in the private security licence upon successful completion industry and who require an SIA licence of the course. to practice.

Applicants have a reasonable level If you are an must unemployed borough resident of reading and writingwork, in English. who is actively seeking we will Concessionary fee cost £79 of your SIA contribute to the licence upon successful completion Full fee - please ask ofNext the start Doordate: Supervision Monday 17course.

February (4 day course) Please call for information additional start dates.

For further call 020

Get t he sG kills to wor k et t he ivate skillsintoprw secu oyr k 8753 6324 in pr ivartit e or email alison.frosdick@lbhf.gov.uk secur it y For further information call 020 8753 6324 or email alison.frosdick@lbhf.gov.uk

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

Changing Places: Development news in our neighbourhood St James to consult on M&S site

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The public consultation will take place this spring and summer.

Email: woodlanewhitecity@ soundingsoffice.com

A

public consultation will be carried out over the coming months on the future of the M&S warehouse site behind Wood Lane station.

Developer St James Group bought the site last summer and is now in the early stages of preparing its proposals for a new residential neighbourhood and new public open space to the north of the Hammersmith and City line rail viaduct.

Timeline for Television Centre

W

ork has started on the BBC’s former home in Wood Lane, which will be opened up and transformed into a mixed use development by new owners Stanhope.

Part of Television Centre is already being refurbished to create a new headquarters for BBC Worldwide, with staff due to move in early next year.

Studios 1 to 3 will also be refurbished throughout 2014, to be operated by BBC Studios and Post Production from April 2015.

At that stage, major construction will start on new entertainment and leisure facilities, public open space, offices, housing and a boutique hotel, along with new pedestrian routes through to Hammersmith Park and beyond. The plans include a media business hub, around 1,000 new homes, a cinema, gym, restaurants and cafes. For all the latest updates, visit: www.television-centre.com

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Be a Better Youth Free football and fitness sessions for young people will run every Saturday

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et active, sharpen your skills on the pitch and build your confidence with free weekend sessions in the White City estate.

Be A Better Youth, which offers football sessions and exercise classes for young people aged 13 to 18, begins on February 22 and will run every Saturday from 3pm to 5pm at the White City Community Centre in India Way. As well as enjoying the benefits of physical activity, young people will be encouraged to build their confidence, motivation and team-building skills.

The sessions, supported by Children in Need, will be run by Live 4 Health until August 9.

To register, call 07710 229 533 or 07825 055 951, or email: info@live4health.org.uk

Become a Learning Champion Are you a book lover who would like to share your passion for the written word with others?

Or would you just like to gain some practical, hands-on experience of working in a library?

Either way, there is much you could gain from volunteering as a Learning Champion at any one of the borough’s libraries, including Shepherds Bush Library at Westfield London.

As long as you live in Hammersmith & Fulham and are over 16, you can become a Learning Champion, and you can choose your own working hours, up to 16 hours a week.

Placements last between 10 and 13 weeks, depending on how long you would like to work, and you can choose which library to work in.

ahead

If you’re interested in becoming a Learning Champion, call Clare Edgson on 020 8753 4053 or email: clare.edgson@lbhf.gov.uk

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Prize-winning play White City Play Project’s innovative approach bags London-wide award

The Play project team bag a top title at the London Adventure Play Awards

A

resourceful children’s project in the heart of White City has claimed the title of the most innovative adventure play setting in London.

The White City Play Project beat competition from across the capital to win the title at the London Adventure Play Awards.

In a short film submitted to the judges, local children are shown playing in a mud kitchen, climbing trees, building dens and having adventurous, creative, messy, challenging fun.

The judges said: “A bit of imagination goes a long way at this playground, which is doing a lot with very little.”

After winning the title in November, project leader Rich Driffield said: “We’re very proud of all the hard work that we’ve done. It’s been tough pushing the project forward and we’re delighted with the recognition.”

The number of young people registering for free open play sessions during school

“It’s been tough pushing the project forward and we’re delighted with the recognition” holidays has grown over the last year, with up to 40 now turning up on an average day.

Rich said: “We’re creating a space in which children can be extremely innovative and creative. We get tyres from local garages, a lot of wood and tree stumps from Wormwood Scrubs, and we look out for stuff around the area.

“Children can use anything really – their imagination is amazing.”

The project, which includes after-school sessions for a small fee and free open sessions during school holidays, is currently only funded until June this year.

Rich said: “Funding for play is very limited, but the rewards it

can give in terms of children and the community are huge.”

London Play chair Melian Mansfield said: “In a city where as many as one in four children are living in overcrowded homes, staffed adventure playgrounds offer a safe place where they can be outdoors with their friends, experience challenges, explore who they are and what they can do – all critical for healthy development.”

To talk about contributing play materials or funding for the play project, call Rich Driffield on 020 8749 0909.

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Find the strength Victim Support launches confidential weekly sessions in the heart of White City

B

ecoming a victim of crime, or a witness to it, can be a very distressing experience, and the legal system can seem complicated and confusing.

Thankfully, practical help and confidential support is available from experienced volunteers at Victim Support, who have just launched a free weekly drop-in session at the Hammersmith North Housing Office in New Zealand Way. Drop in to the housing office from 10am to 1pm every Friday if you would like some emotional support, information and advice to help you make the right choices, or help with everything from form filling to improving your home security.

Call the Hammersmith & Fulham branch on 020 7244 4550 from 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays, or contact the national Victim Support line on 0845 3030 900, from 9am to 9pm Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 7pm at weekends.

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Picture perfect Winners revealed in Hammersmith Park photo competition

THE WINNER

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ramatic, lurid colours leap from the shadows in this prize-winning photograph of Hammersmith Park.

The shot, taken by Paulina Rothova, was one of 34 entries in a competition held by the Friends of Hammersmith Park throughout the second half of 2013 and promoted in the Team White City fanzine.

It was picked as the winner by a panel of judges, bagging a £50 voucher for photographic equipment for Ms Rothova.

John Gordon Smith, chair of the Friends of Hammersmith Park, said: “We liked the winning photograph because it combined a tranquil view of the pond, including some of the Park's varied wildlife.”

Two runners-up, who each win a £25 voucher, captured different aspects of park life.

Noriko Ogawa caught a passer-by reflected on the surface of the water, while Shizue Nakamura won praise for a striking image of the park’s waterfall.

John said: “We liked the photograph featuring the bridge with the reflection in the pond, which emphasises the greenery in the park.

The waterfall is another striking feature of Hammersmith Park and is a popular attraction, especially for the children.”

It is hoped the photographs and other entries will now be featured on information boards in the park.

RUNNER UP RUNNER UP

Snap judgment! Above, the winning photograph of the pond and wildlife, by Paulina Rothova; Ǧ ƪ Ǧ Ǣ Ǧ ǯ ǯ Ǥ Ǩ

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TEAM TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE

Do the knowledge Take the test to see how well you know your way around W12

Q2

A. September B. August C. July

With 2014 now well underway, we’ve put together a quick quiz to see how much you know about everything that’s happening in our neighbourhood.

You can find all the answers on our website, teamwhitecity.org – try exploring the different sections or use the search box in the top right to find what you’re looking for.

Q3 Q4

Fill in your answers onlineary ru before the Febate 28 closing d and you could win a box of chocolates!

Q1

How many jobs will be created at the new John Lewis store when Westfield London is expanded?

A. 500 B. 600 C. 700

In which month was the White City Festival held?

What is QPR’s stadium known as?

A. Lofty Road B. Loftus Road C. Loft Space

What’s the name of the church in White City?

A. The Church of St Michael and St George B. The Church of St Michael and St John C. The Church of St John and St George

TEAMWHITE WHITECITY CITYFANZINE FANZINE TEAM

Q5 Which of these is a pub in White City?

A. Goldsmiths B. The Old Horse C. The Springbok

Q6

Which birthday did Westfield London celebrate in 2013?

Q8

A. Sixth birthday B. Fifth birthday C. Fourth birthday

In which park did volunteers help clean the Japanese Gardens?

A. Wormholt Park B. Wormwood Scrubs C. Hammersmith Park

Q9

What time are the main roads in our area cleaned?

A. Between 6am and 2pm B. Between 4am and 11.30am C. Between 7am and 1pm

Q10 Which White City writer recently published his first book of poetry?

Q7

Where is QPR planning to build a new stadium?

A. Sam Butler B. Leon Green C. Leon Brown

A. Old Oak B. Old Street C. Cherry Oak

TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONS, VISIT: www.teamwhitecity.org/white-city-buzz

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

qLuke SitalSingh

Keston Cobblers Club Thursday, February 13 l Keston Cobblers Club formed in 2009 to make foot-stamping mod-folk music inspired by the folklore of the old, penniless cobbler of Keston, Having brought back the old cobblers’ club, debut album One for Words is a celebration of everything it stands for. Tickets £9 Kris Drever & Eamonn Coyne Tuesday, February 25 l Kris Drever & Eamonn Coyne’s latest album Storymap, is billed as a fresh and honest collection of traditional folk. Catch the pair for one night only at Bush Hall. Tickets £14.50 The Martin Harley Band Friday, March 7 l Guitarist, singer and songwriter Martin Harley recorded his latest album Mojo Fix in in Texas, wth a band descibed as ‘awesome’ by the BBC Radio 2 DJ, Johnnie Walker. Tickets £16

The Jezabels Wednesday, March 5 l The Jezabels’ first album, Prisoner,catapulted them to success after picking up the Australian Music Prize Best Album award. Find out what all the fuss is about by listening to their indie disco pop music first-hand. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets from £16.87

W12 WHAT’S ON

Thomas Dybdahl Tuesday, March 18 l Thomas Dybdahl (pictured above) is seen as a huge talent in his homeland of Norway and has gained an international reputation for his expressive and bewitching songs of love and loss. His newest album What’s Left is Forever was released on September 16. Tickets £14

02 SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE Shepherds Bush Green www.02shepherds bushempire.co.uk Box Office: 0844 477 2000 Eric Church Sunday, March 2 l Country music singer Eric Church is an expert on the guitar, piano and banjo – see him play all three at this one-off gig at the Empire.

Over 14s only - Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18. Doors open at 7pm, Tickets £22.50

qJohn Cooper Clarke

John Cooper Clarke Friday, March 7 l Veteran punk poet John Cooper Clarke, whose cultural influence remains as powerful as it was in the late 1970s, will bring his biting, satirical, politically-charged performance poetry to the Empire for one night only. Tickets from £22.50

SHEPHERDS BUSH MARKET Between Uxbridge Road and Goldhawk Road Shop Local l Support your local stallholders at Shepherds Bush Market, with popular food kiosks and grocers nestled alongside stalls selling clothes, unusual fabrics and almost everything else. Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8.30am to 6pm, and Thursdays from 8.30am to 1pm.

And if you haven’t tried the superb Mr Falafel in Uxbridge Road run, don’t walk!

TEAM WHITE CITY FANZINE

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TOP CHOICE LUKE SITAL-SINGH St Stephen’s Church February 26

l Four of the hottest music stars of the future are coming to St Stephen’s Church. New Malden-born Luke Sital-Singh, 24, is the headliner, who will share the bill on the New Faces Tour with Eliza and The Bear, Farewell JR and Annie Eve. “Good music”, says Luke, “should lock your feet and jaw to the floor”. £10. For more details, visit: www. communionmusic.co.uk

BUSH THEATRE

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

7 Uxbridge Road www.bushtheatre.co.uk Box Office: 020 8743 5050 We Are Proud to Present…

Friday, February 28 to Saturday, April 12 l The full title of Jackie Sibblies Drury’s hit play is something of a mouthful: We are Proud to Present a Presentation about the Herero of Namibia, Formerly known as Southwest Africa, From the German Sudwestafrika, Between the years 1884-1915. Playing for the first time in Europe following a successful run in New York, the play is an irreverent exploration of the little-known story of the 20th Century’s first genocide.

SHEPHERDS BUSH LIBRARY 6 Wood Lane www.lbhf.gov.uk/libraries 020 8753 3842 Saturdays Kids Club Saturdays 2pm to 4pm l Two hours of free, fun time with crafts, computers, games, music, books, and more for all ages. Come along and be creative, chill out or use the computers.

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

q Robert Green

WHITE CITY COMMUNITY CENTRE India Way Exercise classes l A number of fitness sessions are held at the community centre at the same time each week.

Zumba classes run from 9.30am to 10.30am every Friday, box fit runs from 5.30pm to 6:30pm every Monday, and aerobics sessions are held every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

QUEENS PARK RANGERS Loftus Road - www.qpr.co.uk Next home games l Queens Park Rangers will play at home against Reading on Sunday, February 16 (3.30pm kick off), Leeds on Saturday, March 1 (3pm kick off), Yeovil on Saturday, March 15 (3pm kick off), Wigan on Tuesday, March 25 (7.45pm kick off).

sponsored by

W12 Directory Your essential neighbourhood contacts at a glance EMERGENCY – CALL 999 Call 999 if you are witnessing a crime and suspects are still around, if you have been a victim of crime and need police straight away, or if there is a fire or a medical emergency

POLICE NON-EMERGENCY LINE – CALL 101 Call 101 if you need to report a crime but don’t need police to attend straight away

LOCAL POLICE TEAMS Call your local police safer neighbourhood team to make them aware of any local issues, for crime prevention advice or to give them information. Callers can choose to stay anonymous.

d Shepherds Bush Green Safer Neighbourhood Team 020 8721 2056 8 ShepherdsBushGreen.SNT @met.police.uk d Wormholt & White City Safer Neighbourhood Team 020 8246 2708 8 wormholt.whitecity.SNT @met.police.uk d Old Oak & College Park Safer Neighbourhoods Team 020 8246 2747 8 OldOak.CollegePark.SNT @met.police.uk CRIMESTOPPERS To give information about crime anonymously, call 0800 555 111 HOUSING ISSUES If you are a council tenant or leaseholder and need to speak to someone about low-level anti-social behaviour speak to a tenancy management officer on 020 8753 4808 To report more serious anti-social behaviour issues call ASB coordinator Gemma Lightfoot on 020 8753 2139

To report a noise nuisance call 0208 753 1081 during the day or 0208 748 8588 out of hours Council tenants with questions about repairs, maintenance, rents, rehousing or other related issues should call the Hammersmith Area North Housing Office on 020 8753 4400 NEIGHBOURHOOD WARDENS Call 020 8753 2645 8 nws@lbhf.gov.uk 10 Neighbourhood Wardens patrol the borough, seven-days-a-week, to challenge anti-social behaviour and environmental nuisance.

They are available from 8am-11pm, Monday-Saturday, and 8am-10pm Sunday. If you leave contact details, you will get a call back WHITE CITY HEALTH CENTRE If you live in W12 and are not registered with a GP, you can sign up with one of the doctors at the White City Health Centre: Reception 020 8846 6464 Dr Dandapat & Dr Canisius 020 8846 6403 Dr Kukar 020 8749 4141 Dr Uppal 020 8749 4145 The centre in Australia Road offers a wide range of services.

Open 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday, Closed Saturday and Sunday CANBERRA HEALTH CENTRE To register to see a doctor, call the Canberra Health Centre in South Africa Road on 020 3313 9010. Open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm Saturday, closed Sunday