Sheltered times 12 Spring 2017

Sheltered Times News and Views for Sheltered Housing residents

ISSUE 12: Spring 2017

door alone Big investment in sheltered housing Leave thatPlease remember A multi-million pound improvement programme for 12 sheltered housing schemes across the borough was approved at Havering Council’s Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 8 February.

The improvement scheme is part of the Council's commitment to provide high quality accommodation in Havering.

Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White said: “As part of the Housing Regeneration Programme we are closing four sheltered housing schemes and regenerating three more to a high standard.

“We also want to make sure that the 12 schemes which will remain open provide high quality accommodation for Havering’s older residents.

“This £4.7 million investment programme aims to achieve that over the next two years.

“The work will include installing CCTV systems that will link to our central control centre in Romford and making sure that all the schemes are accessible by installing lifts, or replacing steps with ramps or stair lifts, as well as a range of other improvements to make the schemes friendlier for people with dementia or mobility difficulties.”

Fly the flag for St George Residents of Beehive Court in Gubbins Lane, Harold Wood, will be celebrating the day of England’s Patron Saint with a special event from midday on Sunday 23 April.

All sheltered housing residents,

their families and friends across the borough, are invited to come along. Tickets cost £5 (under 16s free) and must be bought by Monday 10 April.

A hamburger or hot dog plus a drink is included.

More information getinvolved@havering,gov.uk

Get ready for the AGM The SHOUT Forum Annual General Meeting takes place on Tuesday 25 April.

Make sure that by then you have elected two SHOUT representatives so that your scheme can use its votes at that

meeting to elect a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer.

Nomination forms for the four officer posts will be sent to SHOUT representatives during March.

to use the automatic system when entering or leaving a sheltered housing scheme.

The system is on a timer, so please don’t try and push or pull the door, as that damages the system causing costly repairs.

If you think the timing is wrong, please talk to your Scheme Officer who can arrange for appropriate adjustments to be made if necessary.

Tea time when shopping If you’re over 55 years old and shopping in Romford on a Thursday, do pop in to the Romford Shopping Hall in the Market Place.

From Thursday 23 February you’ll be able to meet old friends and make new ones between 10am and 11am over a cup of tea or coffee – and on the first day that’s free if you take in a copy of this article..

More information www.romfordshoppinghall.com

Contact details Looking back

Ideas for this magazine If you have ideas for future articles please contact Denise Kelly, from the Housing Services Community Engagement Team (pictured) by emailing denise.kelly@havering.gov.uk

If you want to check out a previous issue of Sheltered Times, they are now online at www.havering.gov.uk/shelteredtimes Housing Services Customer Contact Service The easiest way to contact us is at www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing Anti-social Behaviour www.havering.gov.uk/housingasb Email For rent queries housingrents@havering.gov.uk To find out about the Decent Homes programme residents are now encouraged to look online for planned works or log an enquiry through the website at www.havering.gov.uk/askhousing Social media Follow us on Twitter@LBofHavering Facebook: log in and in the search box type Get involved – Havering Council tenants and leaseholders Out of hours If you have a problem outside normal office hours that can’t wait ring 01708 756699.

How to contact your scheme officer

Sharon is the Team Leader Sheltered Housing and is in charge of the scheme officers.

Email Sharon.nunn@havering.gov.uk

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Ashley looks after Cockabourne Court Maygreen Crescent and Park Lane.

Email Ashley.cowlin@havering.gov.uk

Kelly looks after Thomas Sims Court Serena Court, Solar Court and Sunrise Court.

Email Kelly.murray@havering.gov.uk

Emma looks after Charlbury Crescent and Cole Court.

Email Emma.daly@havering.gov.uk

Nadine looks after Beehive Court and Holsworthy House.

Email Nadine.quinlan@havering.gov.uk

Carol looks after Bards Court and Brunswick Court.

Email Carol.foley@havering.gov.uk

Andra looks after Dell Court and Garrick House.

Email Andra.ramsay@havering.gov.uk

Stephanie looks after Royal Jubilee Court Poplar Street and Delderfield House Email Stephanie.johnson@havering.gov.uk

Denise looks after Cottons Court, Fambridge Court and Queen Street in a job share with Lisa. Email Denise.smith@havering.gov.uk

Lisa looks after Cottons Court Fambridge Court and Queen Street.

Email Lisa.matthews@havering.gov.uk

Lade Dairo (temporary member of staff) looks after Ravenscourt Grove and William Tansley Smith. Email Lade.dairo@havering.gov.uk

Welcome to the spring 2017 edition of Sheltered Times which, once again, is full of useful information for residents in our 19 sheltered housing schemes.

The Housing Regeneration Programme is moving forward at a steady pace and we report on what that means for you if you are living in one of the seven schemes that will be regenerated, as well as letting those of you living in schemes that will remain know about the investment we are proposing for your home. We know that this is an unsettling time for many people and your Scheme Officer is working hard to keep you informed of what is happening. If you have any questions do ask her and she’ll get you an answer.

Throughout the year we will be keeping residents informed of what’s happening through regular meetings and newsletters, as well as on the web page for your scheme.

2017 is also going to be a busy year for activities in our sheltered schemes. Every scheme has its own committee which organises events that are in demand from residents of that scheme.

We also plan other activities that are based in sheltered housing schemes and are open to residents from outside those schemes. Events planned by the Community Engagement Team so far include a programme of Armchair Exercises in different schemes, a series of Reminiscence Events, in partnership with Eastside Community Heritage, Community Clean Ups and bulb planting, Fun Quizzes, Summer Barbecues and tea parties, to mention just a few. Do keep an eye on your noticeboard for details of these and other events that will be taking place.

I'm hoping to attend as many of these events as possible and know that Havering Council’s over-50s Champion, Councillor Linda Van den Hende, is also hoping to attend them, so if you see us there do have a chat with us about what’s happening.

Councillor Damian White Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing

Scheme Officer receives police commendation

Nadine Quinlan receives her award from Havering Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Jason Gwillim

One of Havering Council’s Sheltered Housing Scheme Officers has received a commendation from the Metropolitan Police for her work with vulnerable families in the borough.

Nadine Quinlan received her award from Havering Borough Commander Chief Superintendent Jason Gwillim during a special ceremony in Upminster.

Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, said: “Our housing officers do a very good job, often in very difficult circumstances, with much of their work being unrecognised, so it was particularly pleasing to hear that Nadine’s work with vulnerable families has been recognised by the Metropolitan Police in this way.

“Our congratulations go to her on the award and we look forward to her skills and expertise continuing to help Havering people with housing needs.”

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Investing in the future Havering Council’s Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 8 February received a report recommending almost £4 million of improvements be made to the 12 existing sheltered housing schemes that will remain open after the Housing Regeneration Programme is complete.

It is proposed that washing machines and dryers will be replaced in many schemes

The improvements include those raised by residents at the consultation meetings with Interim Director of Housing and Regeneration, Neil Stubbings, since June last year.

The work approved will begin in April and take up to two years to complete. During the work there will be some disruption and disturbance to residents, but the end result should be living somewhere which is safer and more pleasant.

During January, consultations were held with residents in each of the 12 schemes to look at proposals for the installation of new CCTV cameras, linked back to the central control unit, as part of a programme of work to make sheltered housing 4

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more secure. The overall cost will be more than £300,000 and work will be done on a rolling programme during the next year.

Improvements to lifts, and installing new lifts in schemes which need them, will cost around £600,000. It will involve a lot of building work on some schemes where up to four new lift shafts are needed to provide access to all floors.

Following the success of the new decorating scheme, at Garrick House, which has proved very helpful for people with dementia wanting to find their way round the scheme, all the other 11 schemes will now be decorated in similar colours at a cost of around £103,000.

flowers, fruit and herbs without having to bend over. Gardening is a great way to relax and get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

Other facilities Many of the washing machines and tumble dryers have been in service for a long time and now need replacing, so money has been allocated for this work too.

At the same time we will be looking to see if there are sufficient machines in each laundry to cope with demand and, if not, we will try to increase the number.

We are also looking at scooter shed provision to make sure that each scheme has the number it needs to keep residents' mobility scooters safe and dry Gardens when not in use. Each scooter shed will have a charging point Money has also been allocated for the machine and will have to improve gardens and a fob so that the lid operates landscaping so that these are automatically. accessible for people with disabilities to enjoy.

Full details of the work proposed for each scheme will New gardening clubs are proposed for each scheme, with be published in a special raised beds being put in to make newsletter for that scheme once the work programme has it easier to grow vegetables, been agreed.

The aim is for all schemes to be decorated in a dementia friendly way following the success at Garrick House

Housing Regeneration Programme Update Every resident in each of the seven sheltered housing schemes which will be regenerated should now have received, signed and returned their Decant Assessment Form, which was sent out in November.

The information on those forms is what will be used to match your housing needs with empty properties as they become available, so it is important that you let your Scheme Officer know of any changes in your circumstances so that your form can be updated.

Already several people have moved out of the Queen Street and Park Lane sheltered housing schemes to properties that have become available in the schemes that they wish to move in to.

The order of priority for moving people is: 1. Queen Street residents 2. Park Lane residents 3. Serena, Solar and Sunrise residents

Director of Housing and Regeneration Neil Stubbings talks to residents at Queen Street

4. Dell Court residents 5. Delderfield House residents 6. Brunswick Court and Royal Jubilee Court residents Places will then be offered based on individual need, such as medical conditions, and, if all other things are equal, the length of time residents have been a Havering Council tenant will be the deciding factor.

From now on all empty properties in sheltered housing schemes are being kept for

people moving due to the Housing Regeneration Programme, except for a very small number of emergencies.

If you are looking to move to another sheltered housing scheme in the borough, or looking to move out of the borough, then we will start working with you now to find somewhere suitable.

If you are looking to move into general needs housing then places started being offered after Tuesday 17 January.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/ShelteredHousingDevelopments

Helping you move Your Scheme Officer will work with Sharon Nunn and Chelsea Potts to make your move as smooth as possible.

We have contractors who we will pay direct and who will: »» Organise your move for you including doing the packing »» Install new carpets and floor coverings »» Provide curtains or blinds for your windows »» Disconnect your cooker and/or washing machine and reconnect them in your new home For more information about the help available for you, contact your Scheme Officer.

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Christmas celebrations Christmas is a busy time at Havering’s sheltered housing schemes with lots of residents celebrating in style, as this picture round up shows.

Ready for Christmas lunch at Holsworthy House are Joy Fenton, Olive Hall and Stan Tackley

A Christmas buffet supper proved popular with these residents

Holsworthy House had live music from guitarist Ian Jordan Residents from Cottons Court and Fambridge Court enjoyed a meal out at Toby Carvery at The Romford Brewery

Dancing off the calories are residents of Holsworthy House

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Chefs Mark and David Borrell assisted by Rachel Borrell provided the catering at many of the schemes offering great value for money and freshly prepared, tasty food

Eve is a great knit There’s nothing woolly about her actions when they enjoy a chat and a cup of tea while the Eve Ndiweni, of Sunrise Lodge in Hornchurch, needles click away, helping other people less decides to lend a helping hand, as she gets stuck fortunate than themselves. in to the job straight away.

Eve’s latest project is knitting blankets to keep older people warm in the winter.

The group of great knitters meets every week at the Salvation Army in Romford High Street, where

Keep fit in comfort

Armchair exercises at Thomas Sims Court

Eve with one of her blankets

Residents at sheltered housing schemes across the borough have been keeping fit from the comfort of their communal lounges thanks to a programme of armchair exercises.

Currently sessions are running: »» Every Monday, 12.30pm at Cottons Court and Fambridge Court, Marks Road, Romford RM7 7AW »» Every Tuesday, 1pm at Dell Court, Ravenscourt Grove, Hornchurch RM12 6JH »» Every Thursday, 11am at Thomas Sims Court, Wood Lane, Elm Park RM12 5NN »» Every Friday, 12.30pm at Bards Court, Heaton Avenue, Harold Hill RM3 7HU Each session lasts for 30 minutes and is led by Sally Guise.

You can go along to any session if you are over the age of 55, you don’t have to live in a sheltered housing scheme.

Due to the popularity of these sessions, more are planned from April, so keep an eye open for more details in the next issue.

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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.

Bards Court Bards Court 40 Beehive Court 44 Beehive Court 15 Brunswick Court 45 Brunswick Court 94 Charlbury Court 6 Cockabourne Court 17 Cockabourne Court 10 Cole Court 13 Cole Court 82 Delderfield House Delderfield House 7 Dell Court 14 Dell Court 4 Fambridge Court 4 Fambridge Court 7 Garrick House 3 Vaudeville Close, Garrick House

vacant vacant Jeff Haimov Graham Board Ann Christian Paul Clark Rosie George Pam Lever Joan Dowling Doreen Richardson Patricia Payne Shirley Fletcher vacant Maureen Marsh Maureen Piller Fred Diston Sheila Diston Malcolm Hales

35 Holsworthy House 87 Neave Crescent 29 Maygreen Crescent 35 Maygreen Crescent Poplar Street Poplar Street 14 Queen Street 90 Queen Street 147 Ravenscourt Grove 109 Ravenscourt Grove 13 Solar Court 3 Sunrise Court 6 Thomas Sims Court Thomas Sims Court 5 William Tansley Smith House 11 William Tansley Smith House

Stan Tackley Margaret Boyd Sue Hutton Mary Cross John Clifford vacant Ted Jones Sue Attfield Jim Clement Jean Garbett Frances Rowntree Brian Laws Peter Cox vacant Lucy Proctor Adrienne Bell

Maureen Goodey

The air that we breath SHOUT Forum dates

Air pollution in London is a growing problem.

It’s linked to almost ten thousand premature deaths a year.

In Havering our air quality is cleaner than most other London boroughs – but we can still do better, with the help of everyone working and living here.

Poor air quality affects everyone, but can be particularly dangerous for young children and older people with pre-existing health problems, like heart conditions or lung diseases – including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/airquality 8

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The SHOUT Forum is scheduled to meet on: »» Tuesday 25 April 2017 10am Cottons and Fambridge, Romford »» Tuesday 25 July 2017 10am Thomas Sims Court, Elm Park »» Tuesday 31 October 2017 10am Garrick House, Hornchurch These meetings are only open to your elected SHOUT Forum representatives. If you have something you wish to be raised at one of these meetings, please let your representative know.

Heard at the SHOUT Forum The SHOUT Forum met on Tuesday 31 January at Cole Court, Harold Hill.

»» Guest speaker Councillor Linda Van den Henden, who is Havering’s Deputy Mayor and Over 50s Champion, explained the role of the Havering Over 50s Forum which meets in the Council Chamber at Havering Town Hall on the second Tuesday of each month, 10.30am until 12.30pm. The first meeting is free and annual membership is £5.

Meetings have speakers on different topics of interest as well as social events and coach trips.

More information www.havo50forum.org »» Sheltered Housing Team Manager, Sharon Nunn, updated representatives on the Housing Regeneration Programme report going to Cabinet on Wednesday 8 February which included the proposal for one Scheme Officer per scheme who would also work in the local community, and the introduction of Community Hubs on a phased programme from autumn 2017. »» It was asked if each Scheme Officer could hold a monthly meeting for residents to discuss any issues that they wish to raise. Sharon Nunn will also aim to hold a quarterly meeting in each scheme.

A programme of such meetings will be developed and publicised. »» The Community Road Shows in December had proved popular and successful and it

was agreed to hold these again in 2017.

»» Jackie Dale from Havering Adult Social Care gave representatives information More information www.havering. about different appliances and gov.uk/ChristmasRoadShows adaptations that are available »» The School for Scammers for residents. Scheme Officers theatre productions had also have more details. The scheme proved successful and it was is means tested and if you hoped to repeat these in have savings of more than 2017. £23,000 you will be expected More information www.havering. to pay the full cost of the gov.uk/SchoolforScammers appliances. »» Six reminiscence events, »» Schemes wanting to start a running in partnership with Gardening Club will have some Eastside Community Heritage, support funding available were being held this spring and and should email were proving popular.

Chelsea.potts@havering.gov.uk More information www.havering. to access that funding. gov.uk/RememberWhen »» Three isolation tea parties for »» Audits of funds collected by social clubs and for other people over the age of 55 are activities in schemes will take being held during 2017 with place during 2017. A monthly information stands, statement of income, presentations and expenditure and account entertainment at each one. balance should be posted on More information the scheme noticeboard on www.havering.gov.uk/TeaParties the first day of each month »» The Fun Quizzes will be taking using the template available place during 2017 and details from Scheme Officers. will be publicised soon. »» Kim Crisp, of Age UK More information Redbridge, Barking and www.havering.gov.uk/FunQuiz Havering, talked about the »» This summer will see befriending services that they barbecues at four schemes offer, their shop in Romford and cream teas at four other South Street and home schemes. Details will be support services. Details were publicised soon. given of Di’s Diamonds events, More information www.havering. which are now being run by gov.uk/SummerEvents Kim Crisp. More information »» The budget includes funding on page 13. for a six-week programme of »» Jaya Leal gave details of the armchair exercises at each Environmental Improvements scheme during 2017/2018. completed during the current More information www.havering. financial year. gov.uk/ArmchairExercises Sheltered Times, Issue 12

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Courses to develop skills Once you have a basic knowledge of IT from the training courses run in your scheme there are a number of ways you can develop extra skills: Havering Adult College run an IT course with a concessionary rate for people over the age of 60.

More information www.haveringadultcollege.co.uk Tapestry offers some computer skills courses.

More information www.tapestry-uk.org Havering Citizens Advice Bureau offers help and support with IT skills.

More information www.haveringcab.org

Techy Teas Learn how to use the full potential of your laptop, mobile phone or tablet at one of our Techy Teas sessions. The first Thursday of the month 10.30am – 12.30pm at Upminster Library, 26 Corbets Tey Road, Upminster, RM14 2BB. An active Havering Library card is required.

More information upminster.library@havering.gov.uk

Organising events

Residents of sheltered housing schemes are encouraged, and supported, to run events. The proposed Community Hubs will add to that programme of events, but it is important that some basic rules are followed when an event is being held on Council-owned premises.

We need to make sure that proper insurance cover is in place, which protects the event organisers and the Council from any claims that 10

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Step back in time …

Come and discover some fascinating historical facts. Our expanding history courses cover a wide range of subjects, including Public Houses of London, Body Art and Piercing, Elizabeth I’s England, Street Art, the impact of the World Wars, to name but a few…

Whet your appetite with these short courses.

Book four history courses together and get the cheapest free.

Saturday 4 March, 10am – 2pm Brick Lane Street Art Wednesday 19 April, 10.30am – 12.30pm London History: Music & Film Celebrities Landmarks & Locations Saturday 20 April, 10am – 2pm Britain’s Home Front World War two Friday 12 May, 10am – 1pm Historic Public Houses of London Monday 5 June, 10am – 2pm The London Settlements - The Hindu Temple Wednesday 7 June, 11am – 2pm Hidden Histories of Havering

… and Keep Fit with Havering Adult College Learners who have previously attended said the course with Havering Adult College assisted them to restore flexibility, gain strength and improve their overall wellbeing. The sessions are ideal for anyone who wishes to improve their mobility, postural imbalances and fitness. The course is on Tuesdays, 10am – 11.30am for 13 weeks starting on Tuesday 18 April. may be made if something goes wrong.

That is why we ask you to let your Scheme Officer know as early as possible if you are planning any event.

Your Scheme Officer can then make sure the Council’s risk assessment form is completed and that insurance cover is in place.

If this isn’t done, then the event may not be able to go ahead so please let us know as soon as possible.

Christmas Road Shows Three roadshows before Christmas – at Charlbury Court in Harold Hill, Royal Jubilee Court in Gidea Park and Thomas Sims Court in Elm Park – proved a great hit with scores of residents coming along to find out more about how to beat crime at Christmas, spread the food budget further and the help available for people living on their own.

The events were such a success that more are planned for 2017 so watch out for the dates and book them in your diary.

Jackie Blacksall tastes some of the soup prepared as part of the Love Food, Hate Waste demonstration

PCSO Jackie Whitelock breaks spaghetti into pieces for minestrone soup under the watchful eye of the chefs

The Charlbury Court audience are ready for another presentation

The Mayor of Havering, Councillor Philippa Crowder, chats with residents at the Royal Jubilee Court roadshow

PCSOs Jackie Whitelock and Rachel Hunt chat about safety with residents at the Charlbury Court roadshow Sheltered Times, Issue 12

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Company, conversation and a cuppa The simple concept of tea, cake and a chat is helping older people in Havering feel part of their community again, with the help of local volunteers who run three groups in Havering.

Contact the Elderly is a national charity which organises free monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for people aged 75 or over who live alone.

The tea parties always take place on a Sunday afternoon as this is a quiet day when people can sometimes feel particularly isolated. This service is a great way for people to volunteer and give back to their community, as well as a way for older people to get out of the house and make friends all while enjoying lots of tea and cake.

Door-to-door transport is provided by volunteer drivers who collect older guests in their cars and take them to and from the tea parties, so this service is ideal for people who may struggle with

Poetry please

Brian Weston

Brian Weston’s latest poem looks back at a magical afternoon in his Grandad’s house. Poetry please is looking for poetic contributions, short or long, for future editions. Just email them to shelteredtimes@havering.gov.uk including your name and address.

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their mobility. The tea parties take place in volunteers’ homes which are always comfortable, accessible and in the local area, which means older guests have the opportunity to meet other local older people.

The same small group of people meet each month, so friendships blossom and everyone gets to know each other well. It is only a small volunteering commitment which means it can fit in with people’s busy lifestyles.

More information www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk

Afternoon tea is a great time for a chat

USE

MY GRANDAD'S HO

by Brian Weston

was ever so small I once met a mouse who l! said, Oh my you're so tal He looked up at me and t ha d a very bright He wore little red shoes an n and not a cat I'm so relieved you're a ma denly said!

My name is Graham he sud ur garden shed I live with my family in yo d me you could meet my Da If you care to accompany d gla would feel so It would make his day, he to this little white mouse My name is Oliver I said Grandad's house I don't live here, this is my I'm just a little boy I'm not a grown man yet, s shed and play with your toy the to go to e lov uld wo I le Graham said to me Come on then Oliver, litt d you can join us for tea My dad will make cakes an path to the shed Into the garden and up the d oid the tabby cat called Ne We ran like the wind to av n at my Grandad's house I had a magical afternoo d called Graham the mouse With my new found frien g asleep in my bed I'm now back home fallin ed. lled Graham living in a sh ca use mo a of ng mi ea Dr

Residents graduate from Scam School Superman flew in to help residents combat crime during a special theatre show performed at three of Havering’s sheltered housing schemes this winter.

This proved popular with residents from sheltered housing schemes and the wider neighbourhood, as the doors were open to anyone in the local area over the age of 50.

The show took place at Garrick House, Adelphi Crescent, Hornchurch , Holsworthy House, Neave Crescent, Harold Hill and Thomas Sims Court, Wood Lane, Elm Park.

The programme was sponsored by the Havering Safer Neighbourhood Board as part of its campaign to make residents aware of the scams that take place and how to avoid them.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/SaferNeighbourhoodBoard

Superman deals with a scam call at Thomas Sims Court

The School for Scammers at Garrick House

Di’s Diamonds are still shining Coffee Mornings For some years Di’s Diamonds have been holding a range of events for people over the age of 50 and has attracted more than 400 members.

Founder Diana Speller has now handed over the organisation to Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering, which will be continuing to run the events programme.

Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering Activities Development Coordinator, Kim Crisp, said: “Di’s Diamonds is a highly successful group which organises regular coffee mornings, meals out, bowling and much more.

“We are very proud to have been asked to help with the organisation of these events which attract so many people in the 50 plus age group and we will always welcome anyone else who wishes to come along.”

More information www.ageuk.org.uk/redbridgebarkingandhavering

These are on: • First Tuesday of every month, 11am -1pm., Namco, The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford RM1 1AU • Third Monday of every month 10am – 12 noon, The Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, London RM11 1QT, Coffee, chat and knitting. 10% discount for Di’s Diamonds members.

• Fourth Thursday of every month 10am – 12noon, Bravo Café, Romford, RM1 1HR. Coffee/tea and cake for £2.95 for Di’s Diamond members.

Bowling • First Tuesday of every month, 10.15am, Namco, The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford RM1 1AU. Bowling tea/coffee £5.

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From Queens St in the West End during the day was a surreal experience", remembers Paul.

The film was called Unborn Justice, and was directed by Sean Cronin,

Paul Gardner’s foray into extra and acting work started unexpectedly one Sunday morning when Paul, of Queen Street, was at home having a cup of tea with his actor friend Swaylee Loughane.

Swaylee took a phone call from a director who needed a couple of extras for a short film and immediately they rushed straight off to Knightsbridge on to a set.

"Suddenly being in a nightclub

Paul & Swaylee on the set of Unborn Justice 14

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treet to film set who can attribute ‘James Bond villain’ to his credits. There were 15 extras in total and Paul and Swaylee were singled out to stay late to do an additional separate bar scene.

"This seems to happen often", says Paul, "I have been told I just have one of those faces".

On one particular movie, Final Score, Paul got the opportunity to act alongside Piers Brosnan and WWF star, The Barrister.

Again selected from over 400, Paul was cast as a press officer, which involved him being filmed in West Ham training ground, Upton Park.

"The doors had to be closed to give the illusion of evening, as it was still daylight outside, and motorbikes had to be run through. The fumes left me feeling quite sick towards the end, a 14 hour shift of take after take can feel laborious", recalls Paul.

Other projects have included Burnt Toast, a C4 series set in the Eastbrook pub in Dagenham, which is due to air later this month. Paul always seems to play gangster parts and villains and is asked to look menacing.

"And then there was the time I worked on a Marvel Comic film, The Accident Man", Paul remarks, "where I stood in a cemetery for nine hours, in the freezing cold!"

Time spent on set can vary from one afternoon to a whole week; on the whole Paul enjoys the experiences.

Agencies have been chasing him to go on their books in the last

Paul and Swaylee and other actor friends on the set of Burnt Toast in Dagenham

year, but Paul insists that he only wants to carry on with this new found interest for fun and enjoyment.

He is looking forward to a short break from his extra career as he

states that, "it has all been a bit of a whirlwind" but adds, "it will be nice when I receive a phone call in the future as I have met some very interesting people along the way."

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Got a door that is sticking?

Do your smoke alarm batteries need replacing?

Has your toilet seat fallen off?

Is that tap still dripping?

Perhaps we can help?

HANDYMAN SCHEME Meet our Handyman Paul Call 01708 434087 or 0800 1513444 to arrange for one of our Handymen to visit your home Do you need somebody to do those little jobs around your home?

Our Handyman Scheme is a free service to Havering tenants to help people over 60, vulnerable or disabled residents who need minor repairs and maintenance to their home.

Through the scheme many repairs can be carried out for you including: • Door security such as fitting extra locks, • Fixing or replacing toilet seats security chains and spy holes on your • Minor repairs to taps front door • Securing carpets • Putting together flat pack furniture • Fixing curtain rails or blinds • Changing light bulbs • Hanging curtains • Moving small items of furniture • Putting up shelves, pictures or mirrors • Fixing a sticky door or window • Fitting smoke alarms or changing • Fixing or replacing doorbells the batteries.

How can you find out more or request a repair?

For more information or to ask for help from the Handyman, call us on 01708 434087.

Our administrators can discuss your needs and assess whether our Handyman can assist you.

What the Handyman Scheme cannot do: • Electrical or gas work • Ladder work • Major works • Decorating • Gardening

• Fencing • Roofing • Cosmetic jobs • Emergency repairs • Private residents or leaseholders

Who can use this service?

This service is open to all Havering Council tenants who are: • Elderly or frail • Have a learning disability • Have a physical disability • Have a mental health problem 16

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Last chance to step back in time

Havering residents have a last chance to step back in time and share their memories of Havering at an event being held in Hornchurch on Friday 3 March.

The event is the last in a series of six organised by Havering Council’s Housing Services Community Engagement Team and facilitated by Eastside Community Heritage, which is funded by City Bridge Trust.

Any Havering resident over the age of 55 is welcome to come along.

Deputy Leader of Havering Council and Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Damian White, said: “Havering has a proud heritage and our older residents have a wealth of stories about their life in our borough.

“We want them to share those anecdotes and this event with Eastside Community Heritage is an ideal opportunity for us to hear these tales and record them for posterity.

“We are hoping that when the project is finished we will have a record that can be kept in Havering’s Local Studies and Family History Centre, based at the Central Library in Romford so future generations of Havering citizens can hear these memories.”

Eastside Community Heritage Project Officer, Paul Beard, said: “These are interactive sessions to explore the history of Havering through pictures, films and music for a project funded by City Bridge Trust.

The event is on Friday 3 March 2017, from 1.30pm at Garrick House, Adelphi Crescent, Hornchurch, RM12 4LB, 1.30pm start.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/rememberwhen

The voice of the over 50s The Havering over-50s Forum is a non-political organisation which offers a platform where the over 50s can find information and raise issues which are of a concern to them.

The forum is open to London Borough of Havering residents aged over 50.

It meets monthly, usually second Tuesday in the month, in the Council Chamber at Havering Town Hall.

There is also a monthly raffle which raises funds to support the forum.

Your first meeting is free after that we would like you to join for an annual fee of £5.

More information www.havo50forum.org

Contact your Champion If you’re a Havering resident and over the age of 50 years then you have your own Council Champion to protect and promote your interests.

The current Champion is Councillor Linda Van den Hende, who is also the Deputy Mayor.

Councillor Van den Hende said: “Havering has one of the highest proportions of over 50s living in the borough out of all 32 London boroughs so it is important that the voice of this age group is heard by the Council."

“I am keen to visit resident groups which bring together the over-50s so I can listen to what people want."

Email CouncillorLinda.Vandenhende@havering.gov.uk Sheltered Times, Issue 12

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Activities for you to enjoy Scheme

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Bards Court

Coffee morning 9.30am-– 12 noon Afternoon tea and darts

Coffee morning From 12.30pm subs collected for social club, have tea and cake and games afternoon with volunteer Richard from 2 – 5pm

Coffee morning 9.30am – 12 noon and games afternoon

Coffee morning, 11am – 1pm computer training courses, Bingo Club 1.30 – 5pm

Coffee morning 9.30am – 12 noon quiz afternoon

Beehive Court

Fitness Club morning

Age Concern morning Bingo evening

Afternoon tea

Lunch Bingo evening

Lunch Dinner/ Entertainment Evenings

Brunswick Court

Bingo 2 – 4pm

Table games afternoon; first Tuesday of each month at 2pm Supported Housing Surgery

Perky Pensioners 10am – 3pm

Bible studies morning, hairdresser visits afternoon, darts evening

Lunch Club 12 noon – 2pm Crafts 2 – 4pm

Bingo evening

Alternate weeks brunch

Charlbury Court Cockabourne Court

Bacon sandwiches morning

Bingo evening

Cole Court

Coffee Morning

Tombola afternoon Lunch every other Wednesday, Cards afternoon, Darts evening

Tombola evening

Cottons Court

Activities Club afternoon, Bingo evening

Pool afternoon

Breakfast morning, Bingo evening

Pool evening

Darts afternoon

Keep fit afternoon

Dell Court

Coffee morning, evening – card games and darts

Entertainment evenings

Fambridge Court

Activities Club afternoon Bingo evening

Pool afternoon

Breakfast morning Bingo evening

Pool evening

Garrick House

Bingo afternoon

Line dancing afternoon

Bingo afternoon

Tea and Cake afternoon Bingo afternoon

Holsworthy House

Coffee morning Bingo afternoon

Coffee morning, Armchair exercise Film Evening

Coffee morning

Coffee morning Bingo evening

Snooker evening

Coffee and games

Maygreen Crescent Park Lane

Coffee morning

Poplar Street

Bingo afternoon

Coffee morning

Snooker evening Breakfast morning

Knitting afternoon

Queen Street Ravenscourt Grove

Darts evening

Fish and chips in Darts evening the afternoon, once a fortnight

Brunch once a fortnight Bingo evening

Royal Jubilee Court

Coffee morning

Computer Games

Coffee morning Computer Games

Computer Games

Thomas Sims Court Tea and coffee morning Bingo and Bonus Ball Game, lunch

Tea and coffee morning Pool

Tea and Coffee morning, Silver Linx Craft Club afternoon, Cards evening

William Tansley Smith House

Knitting /craft morning

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Coffee morning

Coffee morning Computer games Tea and coffee morning, bacon and sausage sandwich lunch Entertainment evening

Listings Coffee Morning Every Tuesday, 10am – 12 noon Ingrebourne Community Housing Group hosts a Coffee Morning at Hitchin Close Hall, Hitchin Close, Harold Hill, RM3 7EG. SHOUT Forum dates The SHOUT Forum is scheduled to meet on: Tuesday 25 April 2017 10am – 1pm Cottons Court and Fambridge Court Tuesday 25 July 2017 10am – 1pm Cottons Court and Fambridge Court Tuesday 31 October 2017 10am – 1pm Garrick House These meetings are only open to your elected SHOUT Forum representatives. If you have something you wish to be raised at one of these meetings please let your representative know.

LGBT Group Meeting first Tuesday of each month, 3 – 5pm at Tapestry, Stanton Gate Mawney Road, Romford RM7 7HL Reminiscence Events Friday 3 March, 11am – 3pm Garrick House, Adelphi Crescent Hornchurch RM12 4LB

please come along. You will be seen on a first come, first seen basis.

Sheltered Housing BBQ Tuesday 15 August 12 noon – 1pm Holsworthy House, Neave Crescent, Harold Hill RM3 8PP Thursday 17 August 12 noon – 1pm William Tansley Smith House, Hacton Lane, Hornchurch RM12 6PE Tuesday 22 August 12 noon – 1pm Garrick House, Adelphi Crescent Hornchurch RM12 4LB Thursday 24 August 12 noon – 1pm Cottons Court and Fambridge Court, Marks Road, Romford RM7 7AN

Friday 24 March, 4 – 6pm Highfield Towers, Hillrise Road RM5 3DQ Friday 28 April, 4 – 6pm Hacton Hall, Haydock Close Hornchurch

Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering Coffee Mornings These are on First Tuesday of every month 11am – 1pm Namco, The Brewery, Waterloo Road, Romford RM1 1AU Third Monday of every month 10am – 12 noon The Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, London RM11 1QT. Coffee, chat and knitting.

10 per cent discount for Di’s Diamonds members.

Fourth Thursday of every month 10am – 12 noon Bravo Café, 4 High Street Romford, RM1 1HR Coffee/tea and cake for £2.95 for Di’s Diamond members.

Bowling Housing Cabinet First Tuesday of every month Member’s Surgeries 10.15am Councillor Damian White, Deputy Namco, The Brewery, Waterloo Leader of the Council and Cabinet Road, Romford RM1 1AU. Member for Housing, holds Bowling tea/coffee £5. surgeries once a month. If you have any housing issues you wish to discuss with Councillor White, Sheltered Times, Issue 12

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Swim for Spring

What a racquet

Central Park Leisure Centre

Harris Academy Sports Complex

Tuesday 1.30pm – 2.30pm 2.30pm – 3.30pm Wednesday 1.30pm – 2.30pm 2.30pm – 3.30pm Thursday 1.30pm – 2.30pm 2.30pm – 3.30pm Friday 1.30pm – 2.30pm 2.30pm – 3.30pm

Thursday 6pm – 7.30pm

Monday 1.30pm – 3.40pm Tuesday 1.30pm – 2.30pm Wednesday 1.30pm – 3pm Saturday Free swimming 4.35pm – 6pm sessions have limited Sunday places available and 12.05pm – 1pm are on a first come first served basis.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/freeswimming 20

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Hornchurch Leisure Centre

More information www.havering.gov.uk/freebadminton

Better health from PARS If you have certain medical conditions then your GP or Practice Nurse can invite you to take part in PARS (Physical Activity Referral Scheme) which Havering Council operates in partnership with the NHS. This is a 12-week gym-based programme which helps you increase your physical activity levels safely and effectively through an individually designed programme which meets your needs and ability.

The scheme includes a free initial appointment, gym induction and personalised exercise programme and then costs just £3 per session which you pay as you go.

Throughout the programme you will be supported by qualified instructors who will help you get the most from your twice weekly sessions. The scheme operates at Central Park Leisure Centre in Harold Hill and at Hornchurch Sports Centre.

To find out if the scheme is suitable for you ask your GP or Practice Nurse for more details.

More information www.havering.gov.uk/PARS

Design & Print by London Borough of Havering. Job No: D4930

If you’re over 50 years old then you can swim for free at three pools across the borough thanks to a partnership between Havering Council and Everyone Active, the company which runs local sports centres Each week there are 14 free swimming sessions for Havering residents wanting to swim to help them keep fit.

You can choose from: »» Central Park Leisure Centre in Gooshays Drive, Harold Hill RM3 9LB »» Harris Academy Sports Complex in Lambs Lane, Rainham RM13 9DX »» Hornchurch Leisure Centre at Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch RM11 1JU The times available at each centre are in the table below.

Please remember you will need to take with you proof that you live in Havering and that you are over the age of 50.

If you’re over 50 years old and enjoy racquet sports then you can play for free thanks to a special partnership between Havering Council and Everyone Active Free squash sessions are available at Hornchurch Leisure Centre from 2.20pm to 3.40pm every Monday and Friday with two 40 minute sessions being available on each day.

Badminton can be played for free at Central Park Leisure Centre and at Hornchurch Leisure Centre every Monday from 11am until 1pm and every Tuesday and Thursday from 1.30pm to 2.45pm.There is an extra session at Central Park Leisure Centre every Wednesday from 11am until 1pm.

You will need to take with proof that you live in Havering and that you are over the age of 50.