at the heart Autumn 2019

Magazine for tenants and leaseholders Autumn 2019

The work begins News of the £10m Estates Improvement Programme See pages 10 – 11

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

Contact us

You can report, apply and pay for a variety of housing services online.

For all enquiries please visit www.havering.gov.uk/ askhousing Send your comments about at the heart or ideas for future issues to: attheheart@havering.gov.uk at the heart is written, designed and published by Communications, Havering Council, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BD. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without the prior written permission of Havering Council.

Visit our office Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BD 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday

You can follow us on Twitter @LBHHousing Sign up for the regular email updates from Havering Council www.havering.gov.uk/enews

OTHER FORMATS Havering Council will consider requests for documents to be translated or converted into other formats.

More info: www.havering.gov.uk/ askhousing

Dear residents Welcome to the Autumn 2019 edition of at the heart. I hope you had a wonderful summer and had a chance to enjoy some of Havering‘s award-winning parks or popular leisure centres.

We are making significant progress on our 12 Estates Regeneration Programme and have now also begun a £10m estates improvement programme to enhance a further 20 estates across the borough. On page 4 you can read about the exciting plans for a new retirement village in South Hornchurch, and on pages 10 and 11 you can see how we are responding to requests from residents for improvements to their buildings and communal areas.

Since taking over responsibility for the housing portfolio last year, I have been clear that I want residents to be involved in the decision-making process. That’s why we have a Tenants Participation Panel and hold frequent consultation meetings before launching new initiatives. You can read about our consultations with residents in the Farnham, Hilldene and Chippenham Road area of Harold Hill, and on page 9 we talk to Shane Marshall the Chairman of our Tenants Participation Panel. I hope after reading his words some of you may be encouraged to volunteer to join the panel. I also hold regular surgeries where you can discuss any housing issues with me directly. See page 18 for details of upcoming dates.

Lastly may I be the first to wish you a Merry Christmas! The back cover of this magazine includes details of the many festive light switch-on events that will be held across the borough in the coming weeks and I hope you have a chance to attend one of them.

With best wishes

Cllr Joshua Chapman Cabinet Member for Housing, London Borough of Havering

We will remember them

Remembrance Sunday parades will take place across Havering on Sunday 10 November. Services will be held in Elm Park, Harold Hill, Harold Wood, Havering-atte-Bower, Hornchurch, Rainham, Romford and Upminster. In addition there will be a Remembrance Day parade through the Market Place in Romford on Monday 11 November. For full details see Havering Council’s website. www.havering.gov.uk/remembrance2019

Keep paying your rent There are a few things you can do to help you to meet your rent payments every Monday: • Set up a weekly direct debit, so you never have to worry about forgetting to pay • Ensure money is available to working out a monthly or weekly budget • If you’re struggling, remember you can speak with the Havering money and debt advice service.

Rent First

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Pleas e

Not only does the money you pay go into vital services such as repairs, maintenance and keeping your estates clean and tidy, but missing payments can lead to serious financial issues, and possibly losing your home.

Published by Havering Council | Job no. 5786 Autumn 2019

www.havering.gov.uk

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Helping you feel safer

Havering is committed to improving the safety of the borough for all residents. We wish to enhance the way we work and ensure our officers are best prepared and empowered to reflect the challenges that exist today. We have developed plans to transform the borough’s enforcement and safety service, including the addition of a Council-funded Metropolitan Police Team for the borough.

During October we carried out a large consultation to engage with as many borough residents as possible. This included sending out consultation letters to all Council tenants and leaseholders, holding a series of face-to-face events throughout the borough, engaging with our community panels, as well as an active online campaign.

We are delighted with the turnout of residents at events and the high levels of engagement both online and offline. The feedback will be very valuable in understanding the concerns residents have of safety in the borough and their views of the Council’s proposed improvements to services.

Thanks to all who came out to meet us or spent time completing the consultation survey. Your views truly matter and will greatly assist us.

Key points of consultation: •C ommunity warden function will be transformed into Enforcement teams.

•E nforcement teams will cover all areas of the borough, including town centres, streets, parks and housing estates.

•S ervice structure will be comprised of area-based Enforcement Teams as well as Daytime and Night-time Tactical Enforcement teams.

•S ervice will be fully integrated with the CCTV Control Room and Community Safety team and a newly created Council-funded Police Team to both improve and address crime and anti-social behaviour problems locally.

•E nforcement officers will be trained and empowered to take direct action in response to complaints of nuisance, noise and anti-social behaviour.

•C ouncil housing tenants and leaseholders will contribute to the funding of the Enforcement and Safety Service as they currently do for the Housing Community Warden team.

•C ouncil residents will receive an enhanced service from the Enforcement and Safety proposals and benefit from an increased visible enforcement presence in their area.

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

A retirement village fit for the 21st century

Demolition has begun on the former Solar, Serena and Sunrise Courts site, in South Hornchurch, which is set to become a modern retirement village.

The site, which previously provided sheltered accommodation for local residents, will provide around 172 new high-quality apartments, all of which will be designed to fully meet the needs and aspirations of local people who are approaching, or who have reached retirement age.

It is part of the first phase of Havering Council’s 12 Estates joint venture project with national developer Wates Residential that began in July with the demolition of Napier and New Plymouth House in Rainham. In addition to the retirement village, phase one will continue with the

Waterloo Estate in Romford in the coming months. The £1 billion programme is set to deliver around 3,500 high-quality homes over the next 12 to 15 years, doubling the amount of council rented accommodation and more than doubling the number of affordable homes.

As part of a joint pledge to deliver a borough-wide legacy and boost the local economy, local supplier, Downwell Demolition, will carry out the demolition at the Solar, Serena and Sunrise Courts site.

Under the plans, the new building on on the South Hornchurch site will feature communal facilities, which could include a residents’ lounge, treatment studio for health and wellness, and flexible village hall, which could be open to the wider community to use.

www.havering.gov.uk

There will also be flexible storage space for either bicycles or mobility scooters.

Kate Ives, Development Director for Wates Residential, said:

Proposed designs for the site show that a large proportion of the apartments will be designed as Wheelchair Adaptable, which includes a larger floor area than average.

Hallways and bathrooms will be particularly large to enable accessibility.

“The Solar, Serena and Sunrise Court site will deliver new high-quality apartments, meeting the needs and aspirations of local people around retirement age.

The plans extend to the garden area, which will have distinct zones to encourage a range of activities, such as relaxation, lawn games, and a community growing area for accessible gardening. A social area will also enable residents to socialise in a safe, welcome and attractive space.

Havering Council’s Cabinet, including the Leader of the Council, Cllr Damian White, attended an event on Monday 16 September to mark the start of work alongside Wates Residential Development Director, Kate Ives, Operations Director, Adrian Fennessy and members of the site team.

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“We are looking forward to continuing our work with Havering Council over the coming months as work progresses across the wider programme, which will deliver thousands of new homes as well as new skills and training opportunities for residents in Havering and the wider area.”

Cllr White, said: “In Havering, we always put residents at the centre of everything we do. This new retirement village will create a safe haven for our older and more vulnerable residents, whilst ensuring they can live full and independent lives. With an ever-ageing population, it is vital that our borough-wide regeneration creates homes that meet the needs of the local community.”

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

• • • Sheltered Times • • • Sheltered Times • • • Sheltered

How to contact your

scheme officer Sharon is the Sheltered Housing Manager and is in charge of the scheme officers.

Email Sharon.Nunn@havering.gov.uk Abigail is the Sheltered Housing Support Administrator Email Abigail.Fuller@havering.gov.uk Andra looks after Dell Court and Garrick House.

Email Andra.Ramsay@havering.gov.uk Ashley looks after Cottons and Fambridge Court.

Email Ashley.Cowlin@havering.gov.uk Carol looks after Brunswick Court.

Email Carol.Foley@havering.gov.uk Kelly looks after Thomas Sims Court and Cockabourne Court.

Email Kelly.Murray@havering.gov.uk Kristie looks after Bards Court and Cole Court.

Email Kristie.Sobodu@havering.gov.uk Lade looks after Ravenscourt Grove and William Tansley Smith House.

Email Lade.Dairo@havering.gov.uk Nadine looks after Beehive Court and Charlbury Crescent.

Email Nadine.Quinlan@havering.gov.uk Sarah looks after Holsworthy House.

Email Sarah.Knight@havering.gov.uk Stephanie looks after Poplar Street and Royal Jubilee Court.

Email Stephanie.Johnson@havering.gov.uk

SHOUT for your representative

Each sheltered housing scheme can have up to two representatives attend the SHOUT (Sheltered Housing Users Team) forum. If you have a question or issue you wish them to raise please contact your representative. The current representatives are:

Bards Court Bards Court Beehive Court Beehive Court Brunswick Court Charlbury Crescent Charlbury Crescent Cole Court Cole Court Cottons & Fambridge Courts Cottons & Fambridge Courts Dell Court Garrick House Holsworthy House Holsworthy House Poplar Street Poplar Street Ravenscourt Grove Ravenscourt Grove Royal Jubilee Court Royal Jubilee Court Thomas Sims Court Thomas Sims Court William Tansley Smith House William Tansley Smith House

John Ashwell John Hunter Frank Morey Joyce Rafis Paul Clark Rose George Derek Dench William Russell Patricia Pain Sue Attfield Jean Freeman Gary Narborough Malcolm Hales Stan Tackley Margaret Boyd John Clifford John Wilson Christobel Gibson Jean Garbett Elizabeth Paterson Carlene Robertson Peter Cox Mick Droy Lucy Proctor Adrienne Bell

The SHOUT committee members are: Chairman – Paul Clark Vice Chair – William Russell Treasurer – Frank Morey Secretary – Gary Narborough SHOUT meetings are only open to your elected SHOUT Forum Representatives. The next meeting is on Tuesday 21 January at 10am at Holsworthy House. If you have something you wish to be raised at one of these meetings please let your representative know.

www.havering.gov.uk

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ered Times • • • Sheltered Times • • • Sheltered Times • • •

Ravenscourt Grove lounge reopens

Although the lounge at Ravenscourt Grove in Hornchurch has always been enjoyed by many of the residents, activities and events were limited due to the space available.

Listening to residents, it was clear that a review was needed and improvements made. Working with our residents, plans were put forward within the Sheltered regeneration programme to extend the lounge area, including an upgrade of communal toilet facilities, while keeping the pond and garden area for residents to enjoy. Careful consideration was given to the layout, especially the colour schemes to be used. Council officers consulted with Havering’s Dementia Advisory Service for support in this area.

It is clear from the enthusiasm Ravenscourt Grove residents have always shown about the events they run, that the new lounge facilities will be greatly enjoyed by all. The bright and modern lounge will be a welcoming place for all people attending the Ravenscourt Grove Sheltered Hub.

An event to mark the refurbishment was held on 6 August attended by the Mayor of Havering, Cllr Deon Burton, who formally opened the lounge with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Residents from Ravenscourt Grove and Dell Court attended as well as contractors who had worked on the scheme and local ward Councillors.

Clever Clogs It was a full house on 23 August at Cole Court for the Sheltered Housing quiz event.

Six teams took part in the quiz with Holsworthy House emerging as the winners.

Havering, Cllr John Mylod, and his wife also attended. Tesco donated a free buffet and the community engagement team supplied tea, coffee and biscuits.

In tune with workshops In recent months Havering Council’s Housing Engagement team have been working with the charities Create and Age UK to run eight music workshop sessions in the Cottons and Fambridge sheltered schemes. In these sessions attendees were encouraged to reminisce on places they’ve been in order to write songs as a group.

In total the group composed four songs about various places they’ve been such as New York, China and Romford.

On Tuesday 18 June the final performance was held and attendees invited their family and friends along to watch. The Deputy Mayor of

The group was made of people who are already attendees of the Di’s Diamonds group and the Diamond Geezer group that Age UK run.

Cottons and Fambridge was used as the venue for this project as it was seen as the most central location for the diamond groups. All residents at Cottons and Fambridge were invited along to participate in the group as well as to watch the final performance.

Create are a charity that run various projects through creative arts. See their website for more information www.createarts.org.uk Plans have already been made to work again with Create and Age UK on ceramics workshops.

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

• • • Sheltered Times • • • Sheltered Times • • •

Artist in residence

A Charlbury Court resident has recently had their art work displayed at the Fairkytes Centre and also at the Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch.

David Overland has lived at Charlbury Crescent for five years.

He has enjoyed drawing and painting since he was eight years old. Now it has become his passionate past-time. His favourite medium is acrylic.

David started by attending an art correspondence course in the 1970s. He completed this and received letters of encouragement from his tutors. He also attended art clubs in the 1990s and more recently joined a creative writing club where he has experimented with writing in different styles including comedy, sci-fi, mystery and adventure.

Through word of mouth he has been commissioned to paint a small number of paintings for people he knew, and he was encouraged by the Chairman of the Arts Council to submit some of his work for exhibition.

David successfully exhibited and sold five of his paintings at the gallery exhibitions held this year at Fry’s Gallery and the Queens Theatre. He also received a commendation from Havering Open Arts exhibition this year for his painting 'Future Quest'. This was a work in acrylic inspired by his own book.

David says his inspiration comes from films and books or anything that helps him build a picture in his mind that he then turns into his own masterpieces.

A Fond Farewell Sarah Knight, one of Havering Council’s Sheltered Housing Scheme Officers writes…

Residents of Holsworthy House, Neave Crescent and Cottons and Fambridge got together to say goodbye and good luck to Sheila Lock over a Friday Fish and Chip Supper.

Sheila has lived at the sheltered scheme Holsworthy House since April 2014. After a great deal of consideration she has decided to venture to the pastures new of another complex where she has another set of friends waiting to greet her.

Sheila is a much loved resident who is always lively and fun, everyone is sad to see her leave but it will not be long before she returns for entertainment nights, ready to dance the night away.

www.havering.gov.uk

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Panel progress

“

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the Council did very well to look after the individual needs of the estate residents

Shane Marshall, Chairman of the Tenants Participation Panel

at the heart caught up with Chairman of the Tenants Shane Marshall, Participation Panel, Shane the Chairman of Marshall Havering Council’s Tenants Participation Panel to find out more about the work of the panel and his background.

“Our aim is to provide support, advice, views and feedback” says Shane. The former Waterloo estate resident who has been a council tenant for over 30 years and now lives in Drummond Road in Romford and has chaired the Panel since it was set up two years ago.

“We’re an advisory panel for the Council. We work closely with Cllr Chapman (Havering Councils’s Cabinet Member for Housing) and represent the whole of the borough. We don’t bring up personal issues but help the Council with public consultations, advice on when jobs go out to tender, and pass comment on Council policies.”

Over the last year the Participation Panel has looked at the Council’s policies on decanting residents from estates about to be redeveloped, new ways of working with repair companies, Universal Credit, and anti-social behaviour. The panel, which consist of around 12 members, meets every 6 to 8 weeks at the Town Hall and also includes a representative from the Tenant Management Organisations.

“New members are made to feel very welcome” says Shane. “We meet at 6pm on our own and then we are joined later by Council officers and Cabinet members.

We may disagree in the room but my aim as Chairman is that we all walk out of the meeting talking and laughing. The meetings are very constructive and I think the Panel does a good job in making sure the Council is aware of what tenants and leaseholders feel on the issues that matter to them most.”

Moving process

Shane is in a good position to bring his experience to bear on many of those issues. Married for 32 years with two children and living all his life in Havering he spent 18 years working for the East Thames Housing Group in their customer contact centre. After being made redundant when East Thames became part of L&Q he became a Senior Resident Liaison Officer for the Aston Group. Recently he has been through the decanting process when he moved off the Waterloo Estate. “It was handled very well. It was a stressful time for many people and the Council did very well to look after the individual needs of the estate residents.”

Tenants Participation Panel is always looking • Tforhenew members. If you would like to join search for Tenants Participation Panel at www.havering.gov.uk and complete the online form, or contact your estate management team.

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

Investing in the futu Work on Havering Council’s £10 million Estates Improvement Programme has now begun, following a series of roadshows engaging directly with local residents.

Works are underway at the Neave Crescent sheltered accommodation scheme in Harold Hill, as part of Havering Council’s multi-million pound investment to improve 20 council estates in the borough.

The programme will enhance the safety, look and feel of estate buildings and communal areas, for estates that are not part of the borough’s wider regeneration plans.

Throughout the summer, the Council held roadshows and door-knocking sessions at estates across the borough, speaking face-to-face with residents to get their thoughts on the type of improvements their estates needed.

Nearly 300 residents turned out to share their views, with suggestions ranging from redecorating of internal and external areas, to paving, groundwork, and building/rebuilding of bin sheds and drying areas.

Feedback received from residents has helped shape the programme of improvement works.

Residents of Neave Crescent highlighted concerns with paving and accessibility. As a sheltered accommodation scheme with more vulnerable residents, accessibility is a vital aspect of their daily lives, and their feedback was invaluable to planning improvements.

Work is already underway at the Neave Crescent estate, replacing damaged paving to improve safety and accessibility, as well as reinstalling ramps and handrails to assist residents in entering and exiting their properties.

CASE STUDY Ruby from Barnham Close (Mawneys) – A lifelong Havering resident, 92-year-old Ruby Berry has lived on Barham Close for 34 years. Speaking with the Community Engagement Team, she said, “I’m so pleased with the [Improvement] Programme. It’s a lovely estate and I have good neighbours, but it’ll be nice to see a good touch up as it deserves some love.”

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Thanks to the roadshow, Community Engagement Officers identified a number other issues with Ruby’s home, which have since been addressed.

CASE STUDY

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A resident from Rush Green – One resident from Rush Green was pleased to be given the opportunity to have her concerns listened to. She told us “I’m very happy that residents are being consulted on proposed improvements. As a resident, I feel my opinion is valued, and that this work is for us.”

Cllr Joshua Chapman, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “We are very excited to see our improvement programme get underway. It is important that all of our estates receive the care and attention necessary to make them pleasant and safe places to live.

“Whilst we had an early plan in place for the types of improvements needed, speaking directly with residents meant we could really listen to their concerns and day-to-day issues. This allowed us to focus on what’s most important for each estate, tailoring the works based on feedback from local residents.”

Community engagement

Collier Row

Leader of Havering Council, Cllr Damian White, pays a visit to see planned works

As part of the drive to ensure the improvement programme delivered the best outcomes for the targeted estates, the Community Engagement Team and members of Havering's cabinet spent the summer visiting all 20 estates, travelling over 100 miles in total. In addition to the suggested improvements, the team were also able to assist 129 residents with additional housing enquiries.

www.havering.gov.uk

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YOU ASKED FOR: Neave Crescent 1. Paving 2. Accessibility

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Harold Hill

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WE ARE DOING: Groundworks (pavement, kerbs and plinths) – assessed as the biggest need for the estate. Work began in October.

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H F G N M ROMFORD

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Hornchurch

Upminster

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Elm Park

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River Thames

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Estates we visited this summer

A. Mawneys

K. Dagnam Park

B. White Hart Lane

L. Rush Green

C. Chelmsford Avenue

M. Tolbut Court

D. Betra TMO

N. Delta TMO

E. Dartfields

O. Macon Way

F. Shenstone Gardens

P. Dunningford Close

G. Neave Crescent

Q. Malan Square

H. Kingsbridge Circus

R. Ongar Way

I. Chudleigh Road

S. Cherry Tree Lane

J. Petersfield Avenue

T. Wood Lane

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

Listening to our residents –

the Farnham, Hilldene and Chippenham Road redevelopment

Plans for the area were first unveiled during consultation meetings in 2016.

The original proposals for this development were to put additional storeys on the existing blocks and undertake refurbishment of the residential flats. Following extensive feedback from residents and their comments on the existing flats, we listened and took a fresh look at our plans.

The proposals we are now considering are to significantly

redevelop the area on a phased basis to deliver muchneeded affordable homes for local people and create a safe and sustainable town centre.

Consultation meetings were held in July for residents, neighbours and businesses in the area. Over 50 residents, neighbours and businesses attended and the meetings were generally very positive and supportive for the redevelopment of the area. All the questions raised will be followed up in the regular newsletter that goes out to all the residents and businesses in the area.

Further update meetings are being planned to include tenants, neighbours, businesses and leaseholders as well as all local ward councillors.

There’s more information on Havering Council’s website: www.havering .gov.uk. Search for building new homes.

Helping rough sleepers through cold weather With winter approaching, Havering Council will be ready to implement the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP). This means that should the weather drop below zero overnight, emergency shelters and hostels will be made available and ensures that no-one needs to sleep rough on the streets of Havering.

These emergency shelters and hostels are geared up to offer food as well as providing rough sleepers with advice, care and access to longer term accommodation, minimising the chances of them returning to the streets.

During this year’s summer heatwave, which saw temperatures reach a scorching 38 degrees, SWEP was

activated, and as of October 2019, all those who utilised the shelters are still off the streets and in housing.

If you spot someone sleeping rough, let the Council know so that they can provide support. This can be done online, via the Street Link app or by calling 01708 431180 during work hours (or 01708 433 999 outside of work hours).

Havering Council will reach out to them to provide advice on what services are locally available to them, discuss their housing needs and ensure that nobody is left on the streets.

More information on rough sleeping can be found at

www.havering.gov.uk/roughsleepers

www.havering.gov.uk

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An eye on the human side of housing

“

It’s important to me that we don’t lose sight of the human element to housing Patrick Odling-Smee, Havering Director of Housing Services

”

at the heart caught up with Patrick Odling-Smee, Havering’s new Director of Housing Services, to discuss his role, the Council’s ambitious regeneration plans, and the challenges he sees on the horizon.

Welcome, Patrick. Hope you’re settling into your new role well?

Thank you. Yes, it has been a busy start, but it’s going well so far.

That’s good to hear. Tell us about yourself.

Well, I’ve worked in local authorities for about 35 years now. I was Director of Housing in Three Rivers, Islington, Brighton & Hove, and most recently in Luton.

What made you choose Havering Council?

The scale of the projects that are taking place here, especially the regeneration schemes, were a huge draw for me. I’ve worked in boroughs with large-scale regeneration before, and I think Havering is a place of opportunity where development is taking place - it's up to us to ensure that regeneration works for our tenants and residents.

Would you say tenants' welfare is a priority for you?

Residents are absolutely our priority. My role is to ensure that we put residents first. Whether that is through

Be gas safe Havering Council took part in this year’s Gas Safety Week in September, raising awareness of the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances. As part of our commitment to providing safer communities, we advise tenants to help ensure properties have up-to-date safety checks.

Even if everything appears fine, or you do not have gas equipment in your home, there may be hidden

making sure housing is up to scratch, new developments cater for social housing, or managing budgets to ensure tenants get the best value for their money.

I think regeneration is a great thing, and I am happy to see that it is working for the benefit of our residents, providing affordable housing and council stock. Also, we cannot forget about the estates that aren’t being regenerated, that’s why the Estates Improvement Programme is a good way to ensure nobody is left behind.

The Estates Improvement Programme works begin this month, what do you see as the strengths and challenges of the programme?

Havering is interesting because the Council-owned estates are relatively self-contained, which makes it easier to identify and target specific improvements. I am glad to see we’ve engaged with residents throughout the process – these are their homes after all, and arguably, they know what’s needed better than anyone. I think the challenge will be to imbed the programme into a long-term scheme, so we can avoid piecemeal work and instead provide comprehensive and lasting improvements. It is certainly something I’m committed to.

What are your other priorities for the coming months?

My role takes a wider strategic look at issues within the borough, including homelessness and private sector rentals. It is important to me that we don’t lose sight of the human element to housing, so I’d like to get as much social housing out of new developments as possible, that we can then provide for local people that need it.

We are already doing such great work, so my ambition is to continue to improve so that we can put Havering housing services on the map and make it a model of innovation and best practice. pipes and other equipment that needs to be checked to ensure you, your families and your neighbours remain safe.

In order to carry out these vital checks, it is necessary for engineers to enter your home. This is a legal duty and part of your tenancy agreement, and unfortunately, it has been necessary to take legal action against a number of tenants who have refused entry.

Please help us ensure your, and your neighbours' safety, by allowing our engineers to carry out a gas safety check.

To find out more, search for Gas Servicing on the Council’s website: www.havering.gov.uk

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at the heart – Autumn 2019

Blooming lovely!

This year’s Havering in Bloom competition has seen residents once again showing off their creative talents to help make the borough colourful and bright.

The winners and runners-up were invited to receive their certificates and vouchers from the Mayor of Havering, Cllr Michael Deon Burton, at the Town Hall in October.

The winners were: Best communal garden: Susan Cotterrill and Bernard Murphy, Hornchurch Best allotment site: Amy Towe, Romford Best allotment plot: Christina Bridgen, Romford Best front garden: Gemma Towe, Romford

Best communal garden

Best back garden: Gemma Towe, Romford, Leonard Watkinson, Hornchurch Tallest sunflower: Angela Bathurst, Hornchurch The prizes were sponsored by Paul Bartholomew of Grangewood Plastics, Romford and guest judge this year was Barry Farleigh, a local resident who has been actively involved with Havering in Bloom for many years.

The competition follows on the back of the success Havering has enjoyed in the London in Bloom competition recently, where the borough picked up 16 Gold awards, six Silver Gilt and one Silver award plus a host of special awards for parks and cemeteries.

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Best communal garden winners

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29/11/2018 11:52

29/11/2018 11:52

29/11/2018 11:52 29/11/2018 11:52 29/11/2018 11:52 29/11/2018 11:52 29/11/2018 29/11/2018 11:52 11:52

www.havering.gov.uk

Your safety, our priority As part of our ongoing commitment to fire safety we are continuing our programme of Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs).

internal doors, cupboard doors, skirting and window fixtures. Any damage caused during the assessment will be made good immediately and any replacements required will be installed within seven working days.

The programme will cover all council homes, and we’ll soon be visiting your estate. Letters will be sent to you to let you know when this will happen.

If you would like to volunteer your flat for this inspection, please let us know and we would welcome your participation and cooperation. Please see the contact details below for more information on how to do this.

What is a Fire Risk Assessment?

An FRA is an inspection which will look at the external and internal structures and features and fittings of your building to ensure it continues to meet fire safety standards.

What does an FRA involve?

Independent qualified fire risk assessors will be carrying out this survey to all Council blocks of flats. During the survey, they will knock on a number of front doors at random. If they knock on your door, it would be helpful if you could answer and let the assessors have access to your doorway. This will enable them to obtain a full report for each of the flat entrance doors that are checked.

All of our inspectors are from the company ‘Oakleaf’ and will be carrying photo ID. Please ask them to show this to you. If you have any doubts or concerns about their identification, please call the Council’s housing compliance team on the number below.

Will I have to pay for this survey?

There will be no charge to residents for these surveys. The full cost will be paid for by Havering Council.

What happens next?

Following the inspections, we may need to carry out fire safety works as recommended by the Fire Risk Assessments. We will of course keep you informed of any works required before they begin.

If you are particularly keen to have your front door or the inside of your flat surveyed, or if you have any concerns regarding this inspection, please feel free to email us or call us and we will do our best to arrange an appointment to meet you .

Will the assessors need access to my home?

Get in touch

For a full and comprehensive FRA, we need to enter a number of flats to check internal construction and fire detection. This might include removing bath panels,

Call 01708 433605 or email firesafetyproject@havering.gov.uk

15

16

at the heart – Autumn 2019

Heart & Soul of the community

focus on community is the driving factor for Heart & Soul.

“Our community is naturally diverse, and as a church group, it is very important for us to reach out to as many people as possible. The name, Heart & Soul, reflects our mission - to bring the community together in an enjoyable place where everyone is welcomed, valued and loved.

“The programme of events we’ve designed caters for all walks of life. We have music and singing sessions for all ages, arts and crafts events, and even a local artist who paints here with Frances Bardsley Sixth Form Art students.”

Heart & Soul’s community focus continues beyond the entertainment hub. Above the venue is a shared office space, which provides a nurturing environment for small local businesses and start-ups.

Havering Council originally stepped in to safeguard the businesses based on the site after the previous operators pulled out, and the new relationship with KingsHeart will continue to protect these companies moving forward.

Romford’s popular 80-84 Market Place venue opened its doors again in September under the new name, Heart & Soul. The manager, Steve Kitchen, tells at the heart what the space can offer the community.

Heart & Soul has been open for business for just over two months now, and the venue’s manager, Steve Kitchen, is certainly happy with the reception they have received.

“We have already seen such an incredible response from the local community. As word gets out that the venue is open again, we’re seeing more and more people come along to our events, both newcomers and fans of The Retailery (the former name for the venue). They seem to be enjoying the space we’ve created here.”

Community church KingsHeart took over operation of the venue earlier this year. As Steve explains, KingsHeart’s

Fun in

One such business is accountancy firm Inline Accounts, which has operated out of the Heart & Soul site for nearly three years. “As a start-up, it was a great, affordable opportunity for us,” said Janet Smyth, Chartered Management Accountant and owner of Inline Accounts. “It allowed my business to grow as a practice, to the point where we’ve tripled our staff and workload, and are now in a position to relocate to our own premises.”

“Ultimately, our aim is to create a hub for all walks of the community,” Steve concludes. “Whether you’re looking for somewhere to relax and socialise, or somewhere to grow your business, Heart & Soul has a place for you.”

For more information on Heart & Soul, visit the website at www.heartandsoulromford.com

the sun

With the summer holidays now just a distant memory, a big thanks to everyone who came out to the Summer Fun Days that took place across the borough.

The series of events, organised by the Housing Community Engagement Team, included activities for the whole family to enjoy, including inflatables, sports equipment, face painting and arts and crafts, as well as Council teams offering advice and support. Thanks also to the London Fire Brigade Hornchurch, Havering Adult College for providing food at the events, Dogs

Trust and Havering Library Services for engaging reading challenges.

One attendee at the Highfield Towers’ event commented: “It was difficult to pick one favourite activity as all the activities were enjoyed by the children. Staff were friendly and encouraged children to interact with each other”.

www.havering.gov.uk

Health matters

My Health Matters is a community health project commissioned by Public Health (Havering) currently in its fifth year of service with a total of 625 trained Health Champions to date.

The aim is to reduce health inequalities of adults within Havering by raising health awareness, encouraging positive lifestyle changes and signposting to local health services.

Anybody over 18 and a Havering resident or employee or volunteer can apply. The purpose of the role is not to give advice but to encourage friends, neighbours, work colleagues and anyone you come into contact with during daily life to lead healthier, more active lifestyles and to be able to signpost them to local health organisations and support groups where appropriate using the team’s Health Directory and acquired knowledge.

The training is free, and once qualified, additional free training modules on a variety of health-related subjects including: nutrition for health, diabetes awareness, physical activity, cancer awareness and mental health awareness are available throughout the year.

Once recruited, Health Champions are encouraged to give feedback on lifestyle changes and many have reported weight loss, increased physical activity and smoking cessation.

For further information or to book a place on one of the course dates please call 01708 797705 or email myhealthmatters@tapestry-uk.org

Havering Recycling & Refuse Collection Dates Christmas/New Year 2019/20

ll a ou y h s i e w W as t s m i h r C y a Merr !

Y ar e N w e p p y a nd a Ha

5787 5787

Collection Collection times times are are likely likely to to change. change.

Please Please present present waste/recycling waste/recycling by by 7.00am 7.00am on on the the day day of of collection. collection.

There There will will be be no no Garden Garden Waste Waste or or Bulky Bulky collections collections service service from from Monday Monday 23 23 Dec. Dec. Collections Collections will will resume resume the the week week commencing commencing Monday Monday 66 Jan. Jan. Seasonal Seasonal opening opening times times at at Gerpins Gerpins Lane Lane Reuse Reuse & & Recycling Recycling Centre, Centre, Upminster: Upminster:

Christmas Christmas Eve Eve Christmas Christmas Day Day Boxing Boxing Day Day New New Year’s Year’s Eve Eve New New Year’s Year’s Day Day All All other other times times (Mon (Mon -- Sun) Sun)

7.30am 7.30am––4.30pm 4.30pm Closed Closed 9.30am 9.30am––4pm 4pm 7.30am 7.30am––4.30pm 4.30pm 9.30am 9.30am––4pm 4pm 7.30am 7.30am––5.45pm 5.45pm

Collections Collectionswill willrun runas asnormal, normal, up up to to and andincluding including24 24Dec Dec Normal Normal collection collectiondate date

Revised Revised collection collectiondate date**

Tues Tues24 24Dec Dec Tues Tues24 24Dec Dec Wed Wed25 25Dec Dec Fri Fri27 27Dec Dec Thurs Thurs26 26Dec Dec Sat Sat28 28Dec Dec Fri Fri27 27Dec Dec Mon Mon30 30Dec Dec Mon Mon30 30Dec Dec Tues Tues31 31Jan Dec Tues Tues31 31Dec Dec Thurs Thurs22Jan Jan Wed Wed11Jan Jan Fri Fri33Jan Jan Thurs Thurs22Jan Jan Sat Sat44Jan Jan Fri Fri33Jan Jan Mon Mon66Jan Jan Mon Mon66Jan Jan Tues Tues77Jan Jan Tues Tues77Jan Jan Wed Wed88Jan Jan Wed Wed88Jan Jan Thurs Thurs99Jan Jan Thurs Thurs99Jan Jan Fri Fri10 10Jan Jan Fri Fri10 10Jan Jan Sat Sat11 11Jan Jan

Normal Normalcollections collectionsresume resume Monday Monday13 13January January2020 2020 *This also applies to the Clinical Waste Service. *This also applies to the Clinical Waste Service.

Collection dates dates may may change change depending depending on Collection on weather weather conditions. conditions. Keep Keep checking checking www.havering.gov.uk www.havering.gov.uk

17

18

at the heart – Autumn 2019

Tell Joshua what you think...

Cllr Joshua Chapman, the Havering Council Cabinet member for Housing writes: “Every month I will hold a surgery so that you can discuss any housing issues with me.

The surgeries are on a first-come first-served basis and any tenants are welcome to come along to any of the venues listed below.

Alternatively you can book an appointment online at www.havering.gov.uk/ HousingSurgeries, call 01708 431767 or email: getinvolved@havering.gov.uk.

If you prefer,you can always write to me at: Cllr Joshua Chapman, Cabinet Member for Housing, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB.”

Cllr Chapman Surgery Date

Time

Venue

​Monday 18 November 2019

2–3.30pm

My Place, Large meeting room, 343 Dagnam Park Drive RM3 9EN

Monday 16 December 2019

2–3.30pm

HASWA Greenfields, Kilmartin Way RM12 5NB

Techy Buddies

Libraries in Havering have computers available and offer support for people needing help to set up email accounts or access the internet. In addition, free techy buddy help is available in the locations and at the times shown in the table below.

Library

ICT Session date

Contact

Collier Row

Saturday 10am – 12noon.

CollierRow.library@havering.gov.uk T 434936

Harold Hill

Contact library for details.

HaroldHill.library@havering.gov.uk T 434973

Harold Wood

Wednesday 10.30am – 12.30pm / Thursday 2.30-4.30pm (booking required).

HaroldWood.library@havering.gov.uk T 434975

Hornchurch

First Tuesday of the month 2-4pm.

Hornchurch.library@havering.gov.uk T 434903

Rainham

Thursday – 4 week course 10-12noon (booking required).

Rainham.library@havering.gov.uk T 434970

Romford Central

Wednesday 10am-12noon / Saturday 10am-12noon and 1pm-3pm Plus Friday – 4 week beginner course 10am – 12 noon (booking required).

Central.library@havering.gov.uk T 432389

South Hornchurch

First Wednesday of the month 10.30-11.30am.

SouthHornchurch.library@havering.gov.uk T 434921

Upminster

Thursday 10.30am-12.30pm (booking required) / other appointments by arrangement.

Upminster.library@havering.gov.uk T 434933

More info www.havering.gov.uk/libraries - all telephone numbers are 01708

www.havering.gov.uk

Listings

Walks

Havering Walking for Health Programme: until March 2020 Health walks take place 6 days a week across 20 venues in Havering throughout the year. Walk leaders are there to assist and advise, as required, on all walks and to suggest where best to have a nice cup of tea afterwards.

For more information on how to get involved please visit www.havering. gov.uk/sports, email sportsdevelopment@ havering.gov.uk , or call 01708 431016.

More info www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing Youth Diversionary project dates

For more information go to: www.peabodycareand support.org/heretohelp

Fostering

Information events for training, rewards and benefits of becoming a foster carer.

Presentations are being held at Havering Town Hall from 6 – 7.30pm on: Thursday 7 November Thursday 5 December Thursday 9 January

Details of other events can be seen online at www.havering.gov.uk/ events

Armchair Exercise Class Harold Wood Library, Fridays, 11am (Chargeable event)

Armchair Exercise Class Youth Bus

Harold Wood Library, Fridays, 11am (Chargeable event)

Central Park, Gooshays Drive, Harold Hill, RM3 9LB Every Thursday, 6–8pm

Baby Bounce

Oldchurch Estate, Romford Every Thursday, 5–8pm

Chat in a Hat

Street Football in Central Park Every Wednesday 5–7pm For other Centre-based projects call: Myplace on 01708 376004

Peabody (formerly Family Mosaic) run weekly drop-in sessions at locations across Havering including the PASC Housing Department between 1 and 4pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, and at Queen's Theatre in Hornchurch between 10am and 12.30pm on Wednesdays.

19

Royals Centre on 01708 525601 Check social media for where we will be this week: Twitter @LBHHousing Please visit: www.havering. gov.uk/youthbus

Harold Wood Library Fridays 2.15pm.

(Free event) South Hornchurch Library last Thursday of month 3 4pm

Colouring Therapy Group Hornchurch Library Tuesdays 2 - 4pm. £1.50 for refreshments

Over 50s Games Club Hornchurch Library, Friday 2 - 4pm, £1.50 for refreshments

Whist Club

Hornchurch Library, Thursday 2 - 4pm, £1.50 for refreshments

Young at Heart Groups Join one of these social groups – tea/coffee, chat and guest speakers.

Collier Row Library – Fridays 10.30am – noon and 1.30 – 3pm

Limitless Bring your friends and enjoy loads of fun, games and chill time whilst discovering your talents and dreams and putting them into action.

2A Newmarket Way, Hornchurch, RM12 6DS Every Friday night 7-9pm

Libraries

Afternoon Tea Group

Collier Row Library, first Thursday of the month, 2pm Harold Hill Library, Wednesday, 2-3pm

Elm Park Library – last Wednesday of the month, 2 - 3.30pm Harold Hill Library – last Tuesday of the month, 11am - 12noon Harold Wood Library – second Wednesday of the month, 11am - 12noon Rainham Library – first Tuesday of the month, 2 - 4pm Upminster Library – Wednesday 10am

Coffee Mornings

Ingrebourne Community Housing Group at Hitchin Close Hall, Hitchin Close, Harold Hill, RM3 7EG Every Tuesday, 10am – Noon

The Queen's Theatre, Billet Lane, London RM11 1QT Coffee, chat and knitting.

10% discount for Di's Diamonds members.

Third Monday of every month, 10am –Noon Bravo Café, Moon and Stars, South Street, Romford.

Coffee/tea and cake for £2.95 for Di's Diamonds members Fourth Thursday of every month, 10am – Noon

Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering Bowling first Tuesday of every month, 10.15am Namco, The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford, RM1 1AU

Diamond Geezers

Mens' Club, free to join, free to attend and free refreshments. Come along and enjoy monthly trips to the dog track, play cards, draughts etc.

Tesco Roneo Corner, Romford, RM11 1PY Every other Monday, 3.30 – 5.30pm

LGBT Group

At Tapestry, Stanton Gate, Mawney Road, Romford RM7 7HL Meeting first Tuesday of each month, 3 – 5pm

Tapestry

Tapestry services are shaped to meet the needs of frail old people who live in Havering.

They offer a wide range of services from health and wellbeing to coach trips and financial services.

Please call 01708 796600 or email hello@tapestry-uk.org

Christmas in Romford?

20

at the heart – Autumn 2019

This year’s Romford Christmas lights switch-on will be on Thursday 14 November. Sponsored by Romford Business Improvement District and Everyone Active.

Havering’s traditional curtain-raiser to the seasonal festivities will take place in Romford’s Market Place between 4.30 and 6.30pm.

S Club 3 are the headline act and the entertainment will also include a mini performance from The Greatest Showman by Vocal Jukebox and the local Razzamatazz Theatre school will be performing hits by Queen. In addition Queens Theatre will be showcasing a preview of their Christmas pantomime, Robin Hood.

The Greatest Showman

There will also be a firework finale.

Christmas light switch-on events will also be held around the borough: Hornchurch Saturday 16 November S Club Upminster Thursday 21 November Elm Park Thursday 28 November Harold Hill Monday 2 December Collier Row Friday 6 December Rainham Saturday 7 December

3

Raiders Team and mascot Meet your

favourite children's characters

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch Robin Hood Christmas Panto preview

at intervals

Havering Council is bringing a free immersive family experience to Romford Market this Christmas www.narnia.com www.facebook.com/TheChroniclesofNarnia Narnia® is a registered trademark of CS Lewis Pte Ltd. THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

by C.S. Lewis copyright © C.S. Lewis Pte. Ltd. 1950.

Open daily from 14 to 24 December from 11am to 4pm Commissioned by: