Luton Life Autumn/Winter 2022

ISSUE No. 4

AUTUMN/WINTER 2022

BIG MICK VS THE BIG C

... there’s only going to be one winner

REGENERATE

What’s on in Luton

... Luton town centre is changing

A PARTNERSHIP PUBLICATION

Our Town - Our Future

Supporting you and your community

GYM, SWIM AND GROUP FITNESS FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES

 Great Value Memberships  No Contract  Pay As You Go  Student, Senior & Junior Rates  Fantastic Facilities 2

activeluton.co.uk

Welcome to Luton Life

Your community magazine packed with features on all things Luton from the past, present and future.

It’s been a while since the last issue and the world has changed a fair bit since then. But, guess what?

Luton is changing too, and for the better. One of our main features will navigate you around Luton’s Town Centre redevelopment (p8-9), a visionary project to attract people into the centre, and provide a platform for new businesses to create jobs and prosper.

Our cover story (p4-5) features one of Luton’s most recognisable and cherished sons - the hugely popular Luton Town FC legend, Mick Harford.

Big Mick opened up to us about his

battle with cancer, and just how much the town means to him.

We also focus on how our diverse communities celebrate their marriages, then cast our eyes to the forthcoming Diwali in Luton festival (p12-13).

There are also some tips on how to tackle the cost of living crisis and address climate change, with some ideas and information that could not just save you a few quid – but the planet too (p16-17).

There’s a four-page spread detailing What’s On (p20-23)

Her Majesty The Queen, 1926-2022 It was a privilege to host Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in Luton on a number of occasions.

for Her Majesty during a series of commemoration and reflection events in September.

These images are from some of her visits including St Mary’s Church, the Welbeck Centre (a job training hub), Noah Enterprises and Luton Central Library.

These were truly poignant occasions for the town as we remembered the passing of our longest serving Monarch.

We remember these memories fondly, and it was pleasing to see our diverse communities come together to show such affection

over the coming months, preceded

by James Cunliffe’s take on the local music scene.

We hope we’ve provided something for everyone within these pages.

But if there are any more hidden gems you’d like to tell us about, or super ideas for future issues, we would LOVE to hear from you. Drop us a line lutonlife@luton.gov.uk Bye for now then, take care of each other. We are one town, one Luton.

The Luton Life Team

In pictures

Rest in peace, Your Majesty.

With love, from the people of Luton.

If you would like to advertise in Luton Life please email marketing@luton.gov.uk If you have a complaint or comment about any editorial content which appears in these pages, please call 01582 547402 or email lutonlife@luton.gov.uk Advertising disclaimer Advertisements appearing in this publication are accepted in good faith by Luton Council who, nevertheless, accept no responsibility for the accuracy thereof, nor does the inclusion of any advertisement imply any recommendation by Luton Council, as to the services, products or facilities offered by the advertisers.

3

MICK HARFORD spoke to Geoff Knox It is impossible to spend an hour with Luton Town legend Mick Harford without discussing the elephant in the room. Big Mick’s battle with prostate cancer looks set to go into extra time as he continues his courses of intensive treatment, which affects him every single day.

4

of the importance of getting bloodtested to check their PSA levels, high levels of which may indicate the presence of cancer.

Despite engaging in the most ferocious battle with an unseen enemy since Arnie battered the Predator, the former Luton Town player, first team coach, assistant manager, caretaker manager, manager and director of football, has resumed his role of chief recruitment officer at the club.

“It’s a massive shock when someone tells you you’ve got cancer. And I was told at the time there would be no cure.

It was really tough, but what do you do? Do you roll up your sleeves and get on with it, or sit at home all day and mope about?” said Mick.

Mick was rocked by his diagnosis in December 2020. Then, following an emotional meeting with club CEO Gary Sweet and first team manager Nathan Jones, he went public in July last year, hoping to raise awareness amongst the club’s fervent fan base

“It’s like when you’re a young kid and you speak about what you’d do if you got it. ‘I’d do all this, I’d do all that’. But you don’t. When you get cancer you’ve got to reset your life.

I changed my diet, got a bit more

Photos: Hatters Heritage

MADE IN LUTON

exercise and try to lead a better lifestyle.

“What I decided, with Nathan and Gary, was try to get the word out there. That’s helped me a lot. If I can help one person then I’m really chuffed.

“I’ve had all my radiotherapy and now I’m on hormone therapy to block my testosterone. I’m in a good place, my numbers are good. I’m just playing the waiting game now. Hopefully, in about 14 months, I’ll come off the medication and get the all-clear.”

Mick’s trademark bone-splintering handshake may feel a little more merciful these days, yet the glint in his eyes still sparkles and his passion for Luton, and not just the football club, burns as bright as ever.

Born in Sunderland in 1959, Mick played for Lincoln City, Newcastle

Mick scored 92 goals in 217 league and cup appearances for the Hatters.

United, Bristol City and Birmingham City before arriving at Kenilworth Road for the first of two stints as a player in December 1984.

Part of the famous Luton side that won the Littlewoods Cup in 1988, Mick would score at Wembley in the same competition’s final the following year, albeit in defeat to Nottingham Forest. 1988 also saw him win two England caps, in internationals against Israel and Denmark.

“There have been some amazing times. Luton is the best club I’ve ever played for. I had the time of my life there, and played my best football. I was fortunate to play for England, so I owe Luton a lot as well – they’ve been really good to me.”

“I lived near Stockwood Park for 14 years and really enjoyed that. Danny Wilson and Darron McDonough [both former team mates] used to have a little drink in the Brewery Tap, so I’d pop in and see them now and again.

There was always a good atmosphere. It’s always been a very vibrant town with all the communities, very multicultural.

“I used to get in the Irish bars and drink with the Irish boys. Then we would go to Wardown Park and drink with Luton Indians Cricket Club. We had some amazing times.

I’ve got lots of friends here and I’m

He ended his playing days in the Premier League with Wimbledon in 1997, before moving into a coaching career that would come to cement his legendary status in the town even further.

In 2008, having previously been part of successful management teams under Joe Kinnear and Mike Newell, Mick took on the impossible task of salvaging Luton Town’s Football League status, burdened with a mind-boggling minus 30 points deduction.

To ease the pain of relegation, the Hatters lashed out at their punishers with a stunning Football League Trophy victory over Scunthorpe United at Wembley in May 2009. Mick would later bring in more silverware by sealing the League One title in 2019, having stepped back into the breach following Nathan Jones’ untimely move to Stoke City.

Mick squirms when you talk him up as the club legend he undoubtedly is, preferring to project his successes onto the supporters who sing his name.

“The fans are the best in the country, bar none. I get a bit embarrassed by it [legend] but if they want to call me that, I’ll take it. It’s a unique club that gets under your skin. It’s great to be part of it.”

For anyone associated with LTFC, and indeed the wider community, the focus now is firmly on seeing the Power Court stadium plans become reality.

“It will be a nightmare to leave Kenilworth Road as the memories from there will live with me forever.

But to have a new stadium will be amazing.

“We can build this football club. It’s a massive challenge for Gary Sweet and the board, but it’s something I’m looking forward to. The club needs it if we want to move on and progress.

I think everyone understands that.

“It will be the catalyst for the regeneration of Luton. It will be the main focal point of the town, and I’m really looking forward to seeing the town growing and improving.”

Mick has accepted an ambassadorial role as a patron of the Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group.

In association with Luton Town Supporters Trust, a testing event in the Eric Morecambe Suite at LTFC attracted 199 local men – 16 of whom subsequently discovered they had prostate cancer.

BPCSG’s Jim Francis said: “Don’t put off having a blood test. It’s the simplest test in the world. And don’t ever think it can’t be you - because it can.” www.bpcsg.org.uk

One in eight men will get prostate cancer. If you’re over 50, or you’re black, or your dad or brother had it, you’re at even higher risk.

Prostate cancer is not always life-threatening but when it is, the earlier you catch it, the more likely it is to be cured.

Early prostate cancer doesn’t normally have any signs. So don’t wait for symptoms. Get tested.

Staff at LTFC raised £28,557 for Prostate UK in a month-long fitness challenge to support Big Mick www.prostatecanceruk.org Photo: Hatters Heritage

in Luton every day. I love coming here, it’s a massive part of my life.

My son was born at the L&D.”

To take part in the

Love Luton RunFest, visit

ED T I IM

L E R ES A

C SPA

P U N SIG

loveluton.org.uk/halfmarathon or email: events@loveluton.org.uk This year’s event takes place on:

Sunday 30th

ctober 2022

Y! A D TO Love Luton is fully funded by private sponsorship

FACTORY

Do you know someone who you think is deserving of a

To nominate, please visit loveluton.org.uk/lutonsbestawards/ To find out more information on all things Love Luton, including our community awards fund and other initiatives, visit our website

www.loveluton.org.uk

6

The Mall reaches 50 year milestone 2022 marks fifty years since The Mall Luton opened. Originally opening as The Arndale Centre in 1972, the centre sits at the heart of the town and is marking the milestone with a number of projects supporting local charities and organisations.

The centre is also taking a firm stand on sustainability, with a number of initiatives in place to reduce its environmental impact.

Over

£75,000

raised via the Mall’s Poppy Appeal since 2016

Celebrating Community and Diversity

The centre actively supports many cultural celebrations that are important to the community including Eid, Diwali, Easter, General Manager, Roy Greening, says, “Our mission here Christmas, Black History Season and St. Patrick’s Day, and at The Mall Luton is to support the local community, while were the principle sponsor of East Fest 2022, a celebration promoting diversity and inclusivity. Our of Eastern and Central European Culture. We focus on sustainability has meant we have marked the Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II significantly reduced our impact on the “Our mission here with a culmination of celebratory events. environment over recent years. at The Mall Luton is Local charities and organisations are also a “Zero percent of the waste generated at The to support the local focus for the centre, having invested over Mall Luton goes to landfill and it’s been that £100,000 into the Luton community in 2021. community, while way since 2013. Last year, we recycled 259 From weekly volunteering sessions at Luton tonnes of cardboard, saving over 800 tonnes promoting diversity Foodbank, to being the home of charity school of CO2 from landfill. uniform provider Level Trust’s Uniform and inclusivity” Exchange, The Mall is proud to play its part.

We also sent more than 17 tonnes of plastic for recycling, meaning we saved almost 34 Roy continues, “Our commitment to the barrels of oil, and 8 tonnes of food waste was turned to liquid community and supporting organisations such as Level Trust, and compost.”

Luton Foodbank and the Royal British Legion enables us to provide valuable help to those close by who need it most.

The Mall has 20 recycling bins within the centre, along with two water refill stations to help guests and centre staff reduce The Luton Life podcast is another way of us providing a platform to these organisations”. their use of single use plastics. Two beehives on the roof of the centre produce honey, and there are plans The celebrations marking the centre’s 50th birthday are no afoot to sell the produce for charity. different. A community chest fund of £10,000 has benefited seven local organisations so far. The Tales & Trails literacy campaign during the summer of 2022 saw over a thousand In 2021 we supported children engage with a series of story-based events, culminating in the Autumn with local schools receiving funds and books from The Mall Luton to support & children’s learning.

38 33

charitable organisations

community groups

Concluding, Roy says, “It is quite simply woven into the fabric of the centre to support our local community wherever we can. That commitment will remain as we head into the future.”

We volunteered over

600

hours

in the local community in 2021

themall.co.uk/luton7

Reimagining Luton It is not the world’s biggest secret that it would take something hugely ambitious to give the town centre a bit of a makeover, let alone transform and regenerate it.

Yet Luton’s Town Centre Masterplan is aiming to do just that. It is the most ambitious plan undertaken for the town centre.

Imagine having a town centre that excites you to visit. A place of attractive open spaces where anyone can enjoy being welcomed.

Such thoughts would have seemed daft a few years ago, but steps have already been taken to turn these dreams into reality.

During the consultation and engagement period, one of the most popular ideas was the desire to see the River Lea flowing through the town centre again, complemented with green space and pocket parks. Hat Gardens, located on the corner of Bute Street and Silver Street on the site of the former car park, is the first of these and will be completed by the end of the year.

Part-paid for with the support of the European Regional Development Fund, the

rejuvenated space is a clean, green environment and the perfect place for people to meet up with family or friends, or even to spend a peaceful lunch break.

Where Victorian pubs and hat making factories once stood, there will be a small, tree-lined park with a stepped terrace down to the river.

From there, you could look across the road and enjoy Our River, a huge photomosaic to honour those lost during the pandemic, and as a tribute to celebrate those hardworking people who kept Luton safe. There are plans to open up further sections of the river to create even more waterside space, inevitably leading to better air quality in the area.

Another advancement in the making is The Stage, a multi-use development. This will provide 405 new homes, community, retail and business space on the current Bute Street car park site. This project has received a £20 million cash

The Town Centre Masterplan’s key goals are to attract new businesses into the town to create and support new jobs, improve Luton’s public spaces, provide new and affordable activities and to nurture our heritage.

We all want a town centre we can feel safe in and be proud of. This is what it will deliver.

8

the regeneration of a town centre

injection from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, with major works commencing in 2023 through to completion in 2025. Engagement with local residents on design will start this autumn. luton.gov.uk/letstalk One of the most satisfying aspects of stepping out from under the Covid storm clouds was seeing the return of events to our town centre this year. Early in the year three street fests were a huge success, with a vegan and a wellness weekend allowing our minds, body and soul a little pampering as visitors came to various town centre locations. And the Chinese New Year celebrations brought colour, good food and cheer to brighten up a dull, wintery weekend.

Then St George’s Day returned to Market Hill and St George’s Square (where else!) with Luton BID funding children’s entertainment for this special occasion that remains so dear to so many.

April saw the arrival of About Us in Luton, a spectacular

outdoor multimedia show in which 13.8 billion years of history was projected on to the walls of the Town Hall. June kicked off with the busiest weekend of action this year, as the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations merged into the return of the Luton International Carnival with its vibrancy, noise, costumes and colour.

Luton’s first ever Pride festival took place later in June, and was an astonishing success. Open to all, Pride celebrated Luton’s LBGTQ+ communities with a series of events and parties at various central locations, including Bute Street and the Hat Factory.

And we’re not done yet. There are more events lined up that all the family can enjoy. Diwali celebrations in St George’s Square, Luton’s Christmas lights switch on and some smaller events at Hat Gardens to name a few.

No matter how much gloss these developments add to the town, dirty streets, anti-social behaviour and street drinking are often mentioned as blights of the town, and are cited by some as reasons why they visit the centre less frequently.

It cannot be ignored that tackling these problems will be extremely challenging. Yet the council and their partners are implementing very much a ‘kitchen sink’ approach to these issues, having secured extra money to do so. It’s not just about enforcement but also working together to help vulnerable people.

There is a new strategy for anti-littering to make the town centre more appealing, and civic pride campaigns and litter picks have increased. Response teams are tackling

fly-tipping proactively. £200,000 has been ring-fenced for additional town centre enforcement measures, which is integrated with partnership responses around prevention, intervention, education and engagement.

Big Change Luton is another initiative from Luton Homeless Partnership, who represent a collective of local services. It’s designed to encourage Lutonians to donate time, items or money to help people who have suffered homelessness to build a life away from the streets and to discourage people from handing out money to people who beg.

Then, of course, we await progress on the planning application for Luton Town’s proposed new stadium development at Power Court and the possible relocation and modernisation of the Central Library.

All these developments and more are part of the Luton 2040 vision of a thriving town centre where no-one lives in poverty, So jump on and enjoy the ride – no-one is being left behind!

With a town centre plan in place and funding secured, there is a lot of optimism for Luton’s future.

For anyone who doesn’t know our town, we must show the very best of what Luton has to offer. We want to attract more businesses, bring new jobs and create reasons to visit, stay and spend time in Luton. It’s time to proudly tell Luton’s story.

Come along and tell us what you love about Luton so we can help others to discover what makes our town so special. Join us at an upcoming engagement session everyone welcome - or complete our five-minute survey luton.gov.uk/letstalk The well-loved Flamingos perched in the Arndale in the 1990s have been found and will be on display later this year in Hat Gardens.

Now we are on the hunt for the original 1970s Flamingos! Please get in touch if you know where they’ve flown off to!

Lutonlife@luton.gov.uk

#FindTheFlamingos

Welcome to Bedfordshire’s Premier Business Address

Enjoying a beautiful parkland setting at Central Beds Location off the A6 - M1 & A1 accessible in minutes

Offering fully serviced offices on easy-in / easy-out terms, furnished & ready for occupation.

24/7 secure access Ample on-site parking Ultra-fast broadband VoIP telephony and Wi-Fi Our conference facilities can cater for 4 to 60 delegates, with Click Share AV technology, plus catering as required.

BOOK YOUR VIEWING TODAY

Call 01525 306000

info@wrestparkenterprise.co.uk www.wrestparkenterprise.co.uk Serviced Offices | Conference Facilities | Meeting Rooms | Virtual Offices | Workshops | Warehouses

9

10

Time to Volunteer Make a difference to the lives of young girls in Luton

www.bedsguiding.org.uk

Ready to rethink your retirement?

Make the most of the years of your life at a beautiful Millfield Green property. Speak to our friendly village advisers to book your viewing. Most of our residents wish they’d moved with us sooner!

One and two-bedroom apartments from £341,000 Rental options also available.

Call us today on 01528 558 309 or visit www.millfieldgreen.co.uk

Millfield Lane, Caddington LU1 4AR

Luton_Life_2022_10.indd 1

Scan to visit our website

11 16/09/2022 09:25

. . . s g n i dd e W Four Ahead of Diwali in Luton festival, we contacted happy couples from Luton’s diverse faiths and communities who recently tied the knot.

Here are their stories.

Kristal and Austin married recently at the Calvary Church of God in Christ after he popped the question over a romantic indoor picnic.

As is tradition in Caribbean weddings, the bridal and groom parties prepare separately and do not set eyes on each other until they arrive at the altar. The ceremony gets underway with hymns, prayers, declarations and then the vows.

Once the photographs were taken, the wedding party moved on to Stopsley Working Men’s Club for a big party. A traditional Caribbean spread of rice and peas, curry goat, fried and barbecued chicken, oxtail, coleslaw, fried dumplings, plus some African style dishes, awaited the guests. Then a mix of R&B, hip-hop, reggae, bashment, afro beats, grime and garage music ensured no-one left the dance floor!

Amardeep and Suman were introduced to each other through family members, building a bond over the phone before meeting in person.

Their relationship grew following their first meeting, a lovely day out taking in the sights of London before a dinner date.

The couple were married at the Sikh Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat in Luton. Before the ceremony, the groom’s party met at the bride’s house for some Bhangra street dancing and a traditional cutting of the ribbon. On arrival at the Gurdwara, both families meet for the first time and exchange gifts, while the photographer gets clicking.

In the main ceremony guests are seated on the floor, listening to religious hymns sung by the priests. During this time, the bride and groom partake in the traditional marriage ceremony called the ‘Anand Karaj’. Both bow to the Sikh Holy scripture Guru Granth Sahib Ji, before walking around it to bind the bride and groom with the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib. To celebrate the union, the congregation sing more hymns, then join in and congratulate each other.

At the reception there was more Bhangra and party music and Indian-based cuisine.

12

Jane and Vickie met in G-A-Y Bar in London, in 2008. Introduced by a complete stranger, they got along so well they agreed to meet again the next day – this time without the help of the random matchmaker.

time They were married in 2013 although at the a civil the couple were only allowed to enter into ent. partnership, with no form of religious cont The wedding day was a spectacular success, filled with touching moments, magical

memories and, of course, a big party. Both ebrides wore suits, Vickie’s mum made a thre and ds frien lies, fami and tiered wedding cake, ing colleagues were all intermingled on the seat t roas al plan for the reception meal of tradition le’s dinner. Dreams by Gabrielle was the coup to took they as ce chosen first dance choi the floor.

LGBTQ+ marriages were legalised in 2014 and ip Jane and Vickie converted their civil partnersh year, wing at their local registry office the follo both albeit in a much lower key affair. They had y. mon cere nal origi the top agreed nothing could

And a

Sabrina and Zayn met at a wedding at Crescent Hall in Bury Park. When love blossomed the marriage proposal was made and the blessing of both families followed.

Muslim weddings typically last five days. Starting with the two Dholki nights, where everyone comes together for songs and dance - apart from the groom. His turn comes next though, on the Mehndi night, where his hair gets oiled and he’s fed sweets. Next day is Baraat day, when the groom comes to collect his bride. Still apart at this point, the pair will sit in separate halls. The Maulana will then perform the ceremony by asking permission of firstly the bride, and the groom, to marry in front of two witnesses from each side. The optional gift is then given to the bride by the groom’s father, and it’s at this point they become married.

The second part of the wedding ceremony, called Walima, took place two days later in another location.

This was a quieter gathering where some family members were invited for food.

festival...

Diwali

Diwali is an annual event celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains. It originated in India and then evolved around the world, as people moved to different countries.

It’s now seen as one of the biggest celebrations in the religious calendar.

Diwali in Luton started off as a one day festival, this year it has expanded to three.

There’s something for everyone with stage entertainment, dancers and singers, fireworks, a parade – and lots of food! It’s very colourful and people have had an opportunity to create lanterns to carry in the parade as well.

Everyone is welcome.

Friday 21 and Saturday 22 October sees the town’s events at St George’s Square, Manchester Street and George Street.

Monday 24 October is the main day of Diwali, which is more for friends families and takes place in the temples.

13

Bedfordshire’s Largest Independent Appliance Specialist

Cook

Wash

Cool

Spares

Repair

Install

Outstanding Appliances at Unbeatable Prices Come and visit our large showroom and see our extensive range of appliances

Buy online or in-store 1 - 2 Cosgrove Way, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 1XL (2 minutes from M1 Jct 11. Large free car park

01582 721173 14

joegrahamandsonltd

joegraham.co.uk joegrahamappliances

Two decades of connecting the community T��� ����’� ��� �las�i� p��i�� �n� �e�, ���� d� e��� � wa�� .

This year we celebrated 20 years of PCSOs, but do you know what they do and could it be a career path you would like to follow?

PCSOs are the relationship builders between the community and the police. They are established members of the policing family and provide a valuable and easily accessible uniformed presence on our streets. They play a real part in keeping our communities safe.

They are often seen keeping a close eye on neighbourhoods, in and around schools and businesses and working with Local Policing Team colleagues to find long-term solutions to often thorny problems like anti-social behaviour.

PCSOs are able to control their day and make a positive impact on crime in the local area. If you’ve wanted to join the police but need a flexible or structured role, why not join the PCSO role.

I �e�i�e� t� j��� ���� I a��e� �� ���-�e��-�l� d�u�h��� �ha� ��� w�n�e� t� �� ���� ��� �r�w� �� �n� ��� s�i� , 'L��� ��m��, st�� a� h��� ��� d��'. S�� ��e�e� t� ��� ��� c�� d� �ha����� ��� w�nt� t� d�.

I l��� �ha� ����� d�� i� ������n�, y�� ����� �n�� �ha� y�� ���� �� �e���n� �i�� �� � d���� ba�i�. S�n�� j����n� �� c��fi��n�� ha� �e���� �r��� .

Cl���� D����� P��O

We are recruiting PCSOs. Find out more about the role and how it can fit into your lifestyle by visiting:

www.beds.police.uk/careers 15

Easy Being Green Keep out the cold Kermit the Frog once sang 'It's Not Easy Being Green' – but how wrong could the awkward amphibian be? After all, the long-suffering Muppet Show character was originally cobbled together from a discarded spring coat, a pair of old jeans and two ping pong balls for his eyes.

With the cost of heating homes firmly in the spotlight, it is more important than ever to stem the flow of heat from your rooms.

Draught excluders are easily-made, elongated cushions that stop draughts getting into your house and prevent living spaces losing heat, simply by laying them at the base of closed doorways. And they won't cost you the earth.

Materials and equipment •

•

A piece of strong material longer than the width of your door. You could even recycle old clothes.

Just cut the leg off an old pair of jeans, or the arm from a jumper.

Scissors and tape measure.

•

Sewing machine or needle and thread.

•

Tassels or buttons for decoration if you really fancy putting on a show.

Instructions Cut out two pieces of fabric (or a leg off an old pair of trousers). If you’re adding decorations like tassels or buttons, position, then sew them on.

Put the two pieces of fabric together, lining them up exactly. Make sure the patterned side of the fabric is on the inside to hide the stitches. Now start sewing!

Keep your stitches about 1cm from the edge of the fabric. Leave an opening so you can turn the material inside out, so the pattern is on the outside or for the trouser leg, sew up one end.

Stuff your cushion with the filling. Then stitch up the opening.

For filling use old socks, tights, polystyrene pellets or non-recyclable small plastic toys and objects (but no sharp edges!).

Sure you are recycling right?

This year’s National Recycling Week theme was all about getting real about recycling. We all try to be good recyclers but we are all real people, with real lives and everyone sometimes throws without checking. Unfortunately wrong items can spoil the load and make a whole lorry un-recyclable. So make sure you check the locator to check what you can recycle and where.

Recyclenow.com/ recycle-an-item

16

•

Don’t be a walking dud Dead batteries thrown away in the general rubbish, or mixed with other recyclable materials, can be very dangerous. They are called ‘zombie batteries’ because they have a habit of coming back from the dead and can terrorise recycling and waste facilities.

Put your old batteries to good use.

All batteries can be recycled for free at Progress Way or Eaton Green Road tidy tips or in larger shops that sell batteries, such as supermarkets and DIY shops. You could also consider buying rechargeable batteries. takecharge.org.uk

Waste Not Want Not Easy Pizza

Every day, British households bin over 18,000 tonnes of uneaten food. The cost of producing, transporting and then letting it rot creates greenhouse gases and a very unwelcome partysized carbon footprint. It also wastes money.

Thankfully, one of the many solutions to this is...

PIZZA. It is so easy to knock up a home made one from stale bread or baguettes and left over ingredients. You will find almost everything in your fridge can be used as a topping.

Ingredients •

baguette cut in half, or bread crusts

•

garlic cloves

•

olive oil 2tbs

•

tomatoes (or cream cheese or pesto)

•

leftovers; chicken, salami, peppers, sweetcorn, mushrooms, tomatoes, onion, tuna – anything!

Instructions 1.

Preheat oven to 200C (180C fan oven).

2.

Cut a garlic clove in half and rub over the bread, or crush and put on a thin layer

3.

Drizzle olive oil and bake for 5 minutes.

4.

Peel, chop and simmer tomatoes until thickened into a puree and spread over the bread.

5.

Add your toppings and then cover in cheese. Give some of your old spice jars a run-out, too.

6.

Bake for 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, and serve.

Recycling your cycle If you have an old bike you no longer need, you can donate it to a great council scheme to get bikes back on the road and into the hands of people who could really use them. It also helps improve air quality in the town!

There are drop-off points at Unit 42, Kingsway depot, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm.

Or, they can be taken to either of the town’s local tidy tips on Eaton Green Rd or Progress Way. The bikes are donated to members of the community once refurbished. safercycling@luton.gov.uk

On yer bike We are working towards Luton becoming a net zero town by 2040.

Transport makes up 22% of the total emissions in Luton and to help achieve the net zero vision, we need a shift in the way we travel in and around the town.

Cycling and walking are excellent forms of active travel and the council has a number of initiatives to help encourage people to cycle and walk more. luton.gov.uk/sustainabletravel

You can apply for a number of grants available from the government and energy companies to help improve the energy efficiency of your homes.

Energy-saving improvements can make homes more efficient, keeping a lid on rising prices and tackling the number of homes falling into fuel poverty.

The Sustainable Warmth grant scheme is backed by the government and designed to fund energy-efficiency upgrades for residents who are most likely to be impacted by the high cost of bills.

Every degree you turn your room thermostat up increases your heating bills by 10%. Have you thought of turning it back down a few notches and putting a jumper on?

To find out more about the scheme and all the current efficiency grant schemes available, visit www.luton.gov.uk/energy-advice or contact 01582 54 6789. Details for each grant scheme includes: •

eligibility criteria

•

energy efficiency improvement measures available

•

application process

Always defrost frozen food in your fridge to help keep the fridge temperature down – and never put warm or hot food in the fridge or freezer.

17

Helping people discover the exciting treats our vibrant town has to offer...

WHAT’S ON IN LUTON GUIDE

Subscribe to our

What ’s On Guide

Scan the QR code below to see the full line-up of events in town every Thursday to Sunday

Subscribe to our free weekly Luton town centre What’s On guide for activities in town every Thursday - Sunday

S ca n Check out our

me!

LUTON website for a range of business articles and to download our

LUTON guide & our student guide for a listing of some of the town centre businesses

lutontowncentre.org/enjoy-luton

Make sure you follow us on social media @LutonBID

18

LUTON

Vandalism

Begins at Home James Cunliffe is a Luton-based journalist, podcaster and host of the vbah.co.uk and thelutonian.com sport and culture websites.

Luton Life invited him to tell you what they’re all about.

Vandalism Begins at Home are proud Lutonians, but you’ll have heard the tired old tunes about our town.

The Palpitations, Ali MacQueen and Loci all coming to the fore. Music is food for the soul. They’re the cooks and we’ll take you to your table.

Luton is changing, but still, they persist. Sometimes from within. Vandalism really does begin at home, some might say.

And one of the places where the home fires burn brightest is The Castle Tavern. Luton still has no dedicated music venue, which for a town of our size is something that needs to change, but this is no longer just a town centre pub, it’s our spiritual HQ and the feather in our cap for live music.

Well, we’re mad as hell and we’re not going to take it anymore!

We see plenty of our neighbours, friends and families determined to be the change they want to see in the world. For us it’s music and Luton deserves a place on the map.

Holding a mirror to those deepseated and destructive attitudes about our hometown was the first step. Vandalism Begins at Home is the name of our collective. Now it’s time to build and help raise reputations.

For five years – starting as a music and arts fanzine – we’ve championed new music and the creative forces in our town and beyond. Now, with the same fiercely independent, do-it-yourself spirit, this new music grassroots community has grown to include an independent record label, gig promotions and a weekly podcast.

No funding, no sponsors, just passion and heart.

Vandalism Begins at Home is not alone. There’s a new rock music revolution bubbling up, with Luton acts such as SOURDOUGH, Regressive Left, JW Paris,

Just recently there, in September, Luton celebrated its only threeday music festival, Castlefest, which has been running for more than a decade and is the baby of our compadres cut from the same cloth, LutonLive/s.

The latter are the local rebelrousers that have just let rip with their debut art-punk EP, ‘Outlet’, released on our Vandalism Begins at Home Records. The label launched in lockdown 2020 with the noisenik trio’s ethereally titillating single, ‘Expected’. The mission then, and now, 19 releases later, is to provide a platform for local artists we’re passionate about.

With your support, we can all beat the drum for Luton.

On our Vandalism Begins at Home Radio podcast – released every Thursday on Mixcloud – the group’s chief, Paul Mercer, said of the music scene in our town: “Before Covid, we were getting somewhere. We all felt this kind of surge of things moving forward. There was this air of hope and optimism when it came to how things were going. It’s slowly coming back.”

Vandalism Begins at Home is proud to play a part of that and we were honoured to curate the opening night of Castlefest, with some of the bands that have lit up Luton this year – Points, Owes, Dois Padres, Luna Rosa and SOURDOUGH. 19

What’s On Diwali in Luton

Celebrate the festival of lights with live performances by Indian and Bhangra artists and performers, amazing stalls, tasty food places and workshops, all in the town centre.

21 and 22 October 12 noon to 10pm St George’s Square www.diwaliinluton.co.uk Free

Some highlights of activities and events taking place in your town

Detonate Day Fest

Live music all day; Feel Shame, Glower, Away with the Sea, Winter Hotel, Last Existence, Depravity, Viatorem, Swarmed and more

Daytime Deewane

It’s 1997 and London is about to have its last daytime rave, as British South Asians flock for their last taste of rebellion.

Saturday 5 November

Wednesday 16 November

11am to 12 midnight

4.30pm and 7.30pm

The Castle Tavern

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.facebook.com/

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Lutonlivespromotions £8 advance or £10 on the door

£12/£10 advance

Vinyl Revelations presents:

Artisan Food, Art and Craft Market

King Hammond

Luton town becomes SKA TOWN for a night with King Hammond supported

by Easydread and Ska DJs. Strictly 18+

Artisan Food, Arts and Crafts Fair taking place every second Sunday of the month.

Friday 11 November

Sunday 13 November

7pm to 11pm

11am to 5pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

Stockwood Discovery Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

www.facebook.com/ events/1005777683661570

£17.50/£15 advance

Free entry, products are on sale

Lighting up

Luton We’re delighted to announce our very special guests this year, courtesy of Luton BID. Minions will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day.

© Universal City Studios LLC. All Rights Reserved.

20

www.luton.gov.uk/christmas

Saturday

26

November 12 to 7pm

With Special Guests Bob & Stuart

Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Kathak Monologues

Two short Kathak dance pieces written and choreographed Amina Khayyam Dance (AKDC): YOU&ME – In a same sex relationship, an ordinary guy wrestles to confront all that prevents him being with his lover.

BIRD – A stage sequel to AKDC’s critically acclaimed digital film Catch The Bird Who Won’t Fly – began in a workshop with a women’s community group where a participant asked “What happens to a woman when she runs away from domestic abuse?”

Friday 18 November

Family book club

Delve into worlds far from here discovering the magic of reading at this brand new family book club in collaboration with Formy Books.

Saturday 19 November and Saturday 3 December

Castlefest UK Presents: Christmas Party

Live music from Novustory, supported by Scruffy Bear and more to be announced Saturday 16 December

12 noon to 3pm

7.30pm until late

Hat Factory Arts Centre

The Castle Tavern

www.formybooks.com/

www.facebook.com/ castlefestukofficial

Free

UTTER! Lutonia

The popular spoken word regular features Joolz Denby as headliner this month.

£8 advance or £10 on the door Cinema Classics: Die Hard Tuesday 6 December

Thursday 8 December

7:30pm to 9pm Hat Factory Arts Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

7.30pm to 10pm

7pm until late

£8

Hat Factory Arts Centre

Film Club: Muppets Christmas Carol The Muppets perform the classic Dickens tale. Rated PG.

£10/£8 conc

£12/£10 Age 10+

Christmas films

Saturday 3 December 10:30am to 12:30pm £3.50 or 4 for £12

Luton Fireworks Spectacular Saturday 5 November 2022 Popes Meadow, Old Bedford Road 6.30pm onwards, entertainment from 7pm The FREE ENTRY display will start at 7.30pm Fairground rides for children, hot food, snacks and drinks

Principal Sponsor

www.luton.gov.uk/fireworks 21

Every month Bradgers Hill practical task day

Comedy Bar

Join resident MC Jake Pickford for an evening of stand-up comedy from the nation’s up and coming talent. 16+

Help manage this beautiful County Wildlife Site, look after nature and meet other members of your community

Third Friday

First Monday 10am to 3pm Bushmead Community Hub www.wildlifebcn.org/ bradgers-hill-wilder-futures Free

Hat District Lates

The Hat District www.culturetrust.com/whats-on

6pm start

Join this friendly and relaxed class with tutor Matt Burden (MA Visual Communication, Royal College of Art) Last Tuesday 2pm to 4pm Little Red Arts

www.eventbrite.co.uk /e/luton-life-drawing- tickets-328956817697 £15

Free

Swirl nightclub

Drink and Draw

Bedfordshire’s biggest disability nightclub. Strictly 18+

A night of creativity with drinking and drawing. Strictly 18+

Last Tuesday

Second Thursday

7pm to 10pm

7.30pm to 11pm

Hat Factory Arts Centre

Hat Factory Arts Centre

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

www.culturetrust.com/whats-on £5

£5/free carer ticket

Armistice Day and Remembrance Day

Remembrance Sunday

Armistice Day At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month – we will remember them. Residents are welcome to join the council in observing the Two Minute Silence at 11am in front of the Town Hall.

Friday 11 November 11am Luton Town Hall 22

Hat Factory Arts Centre

Luton Life Drawing

5pm to 9pm

The Hope Gala Ball Saturday 22 October

£6

First Thursday

There are a number of activities taking place across the town, please visit www.luton.gov.uk/ BHM for the full list and details.

7.30pm to 10pm

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Eat, Drink and Create every first Thursday of the month at Hat District Lates! 16+

Black History month

An opportunity to join the council, faith leaders, armed forces and emergency services to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms, and those who continue to do so. All ages.

Sunday 13 November 10am-11.30am Luton Town Hall www.luton.gov.uk/ RemembranceDay

Venue 360, The Riverside Suite, Gipsy Lane, Luton £75 per person Strictly Caribbean Sunday 30 October 6pm start Chaul End Community Centre Exhibition – the Royal West African Frontier Force in the Second World War 14 October to 20 November Monday to Saturday, 11am to 5.30pm Suite 47, The Mall, Luton Free

What’s on in your parks Volunteering opportunities Nature Conservation Volunteer Sessions Every Monday from 10am to 3pm Various locations Introduction to Horticulture Sessions Every Tuesday from 1pm to 2.30pm

Wardown Park Volunteer Garden Wardown Park Volunteer Gardeners Every Thursday, 10am to 12 noon Memorial Park Volunteer Gardeners Every Friday, 1pm to 2pm All volunteer activities are free, contact: parksvolunteers@luton.gov.uk

Christmas Lighting up Luton

Come to Luton Town Centre to join the celebrations and Christmas Lights switch on at this popular annual event.

Saturday 26 November 12 noon to 6.30pm George Street/ Luton Town Centre www.luton.gov.uk/Christmas Free

The Mall Christmas Grotto

The Mall’s Giving Grotto is back, raising funds for local charities Luton Foodbank and Level Trust.

Father Christmas visits Wardown House A magical Christmas experience awaits the whole family this Christmas.

3-23 December 11am to 3pm Wardown House, Museum and Gardens www.culturetrust.com/whats-on

Cost: £15/£6

Film Club: Muppets Christmas Carol

The Muppets perform the classic Dickens tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit. Rated PG.

Weekends, 26 Nov-17 Dec, Daily 17-24 Dec

Saturday 3 December

Mall opening hours

10:30am to 12:30pm

The Mall Luton

Hat Factory Arts Centre

themall.co.uk/LutonChristmas

www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on

Costs vary, visit website

Stockwood Illuminated

Stockwood’s annual illuminations throughout the discovery centre.

2-23 December 4.30pm to 7.30pm Stockwood Discovery Centre www.culturetrust.com/ whats-on Costs vary, visit website

Cost: £3.50 or 4 for £12

Luton Irish Forum Christmas social

Annual Christmas get together.

Thursday 8 December 12 noon to 4pm Celtic Club, Cobham Street www.lutonirishforum.org/ whatson £6 members, £8 non-members

23

25

RECRUITING

NOW

SEARCH RAF RECRUITMENT

CRN-46_319

0345 605 5555

26

/rafrecruitment @RAF_Recruitment

Community Fund helping to

keep Luton Safe

It was particularly targeted at young people aged 12 to 24 years old, South Asian (particularly the Pakistani population), Black African and Black Caribbean, Eastern European and Gypsy and Roma, where current levels of vaccination are lower.

One group, the Bangladesh Youth League, based at the Centre for Youth and Community Development (CYCD) in Leagrave Road, were successful in their bid.

The programme, led by Tahir Khan, acting Director, involved recruiting ten peer motivators to engage with the community, creating a short awareness video by young people to promote the importance of having the vaccine within the 12-24 year group. They also held vaccine outreach events with the NHS Team on site along with a mobile wellbeing clinic to deliver and discuss the vaccinations.

The Bangladesh Youth League organised four vaccination events, one which coincided with the

To increase the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in Luton the council was awarded funding by central government. This COVID-19 Vaccine Community Fund (CVCF) was for community-led project bids in Luton that supported the work of the council and partners to increase awareness and improve the take up of vaccinations.

Platinum Jubilee. That event attracted over 900 people, and a community fun day attended by nearly 500 people.

The take up of the vaccine by the young age group concerned was not high, but people used the facilities for general medical check-ups that were also on offer.

Over 10,000 leaflets were distributed door to door and were also given out at the local Mosques, reaching out to thousands of people.

Overall, the activities raised a high level of awareness of the COVID-19 vaccines. A number of calls were received following the leaflet drop and the digital publicity.

project period which was April to July 2022 and the peer motivators continued to raise awareness of the vaccines with organised workshops in youth club sessions.

This piece of work has provided a platform where the group, the council and partners can work together in the future to raise awareness of the importance of having the vaccine.

Need transport to and from a vaccination site? Contact the Luton FREE Vaxi Cab service www.Luton.gov.uk/covid19-vaccine

The development of the peer motivators group provided an opportunity to continue this work beyond the 27

MADE IN LUTON#2

Then…

An apprentice’s story In the 1960s Luton was a thriving, industrial town and most local engineering companies were competing to entice school leavers.

Vauxhall Motors was one of many who attracted the young and eager.

“Son, you’ll get an education that will set you up for life with an apprenticeship!’ How true his words would turn out to be,” said Steve Costen, who did his apprenticeship with Vauxhall between 1965 and 1970.

“My VM apprenticeship and the General Motors Institute (GMI) Scholarship Programme that followed has carried me through three exciting careers, spanning 1965 to 2014”.

A Meccano set sparked an interest in all things mechanical. Yet a career in aviation was scuppered when he discovered he was colour blind.

So he signed into a five-year, indentured apprenticeship instead.

“I put on fresh overalls, clocked on and, with a file and hacksaw, started basic fitting in ‘P’ block under the watchful eye of our instructors.”

28

Luton town’s motto, ‘Scientiae et labori detur’, roughly translating as ‘By science and industry’ signifies our heritage as an innovative and industrious town.

“We hammered, turned, welded, ground and filed every type of metal that could find its way into a car, van or truck. In those days, ‘newbies’ had to deal with many mischievous initiations, including talcum powder in our new tea mugs, and overall pockets filled with cleaning fluid!”

“We made a lot of our own tools, and I know that quite a few VM exapprentices still have theirs - 50 years on and proud of them.”

“Vauxhall produced many of its own components in the 1960s and we were able to learn about machining, spot-welding, painting, chrome-plating and the assembly of the vehicles, and everything that went in them.”

After nearly 14 months Steve was selected for a ‘Technical Apprenticeship.’ This included learning about manufacturing methods, plant layout, and works standards. He gained the Ordinary and Higher National Certificates in Mechanical Engineering. During the final year he spent one month in each of seven departments which gave him an overall knowledge of how Vauxhall functioned as a company, providing him with a network of future contacts.

Steve’s next stop was Flint, Michigan, where he participated in the GM Overseas Scholarship Programme.

As one of the youngest scholars, he headed out with seven other men for two intense and memorable years, studying and working.

“We were sponsored, the tuition was free and we received salaries while studying. It consisted of 24 months alternating six weeks studying at the GM Institute, then six working at a Co-operative GM Plant, where I gained work experience in the same field as I would be working on return to the UK. “The courses were diverse, covering every aspect of manufacturing. The standard of teaching was first class.

Above all, Vauxhall provided a selfdevelopment environment that was uniquely challenging and engaging.”

Vauxhall set Steve up for life. His next career, up until the 1990s, was in the Operations Division of Shell International Exploration and Production, living in, amongst other places, Oman, Brunei and Turkey.

“What started out as a five-year indentured apprenticeship with Vauxhall had utterly and completely changed my life – forever.”

Now…

Luton has a diverse economy which has experienced significant growth in recent years in key sectors such as advanced manufacturing. One example is Leonardo, one of the UK’s leading aerospace companies and one of biggest suppliers of defence and security equipment to the UK MOD. Meet Elin Esnard, a Third Year Technical Apprentice working at their Capability Green site. Yet what made her choose an apprenticeship as a career route?

“When studying for GCSEs, I was predicted excellent grades. My school advised me on going to sixth form as a stepping stone towards university. However, I started to underperform due to the stress of A-Levels, and it impacted my mental health,” said Elin. “Whilst this was going on, I had just been diagnosed with dyslexia, and was still trying to find out how I learn best and identify my coping mechanisms.

“That summer, I did a week’s work experience at Leonardo - it inspired me. I went back to college, but I thought, ‘I am never going to get to work for a company like that.’”

Having decided that university wasn’t for her, Elin worked full-time again – yet still dreamt of being an engineer.

“I looked into apprenticeships and they almost seemed too good to be true. I would go to college one day a week to get professional qualifications, and be applying everything I learnt to the work, which would reinforce my knowledge and keep me engaged and motivated. And I would still be earning an income!”

As a technical apprentice, her role is varied. Elin is currently completing a series of three-month placements across the business, and one day per week in college.

“I have also been on placements where I have worked with teams that need to be on site. So I have been able to work in the labs with the kit first-hand.”

Asked what has been the best thing about her apprenticeship, Elin said, “I get to apply what I learn in my everyday job. It’s easier to learn things whilst I’m doing them, so the structure of the apprenticeship is tailored to suit my strengths.

Worried you or a loved one might be drinking too much?

Is it affecting energy levels, wellbeing, relationships or work?

Want to reduce the amount you drink?

Call Luton Alcohol Helpline Free-phone:

0808 1753063 Monday and Thursday 5pm – 8pm

Wednesday and Saturday 10am – 3pm

“Everyone is so genuinely happy to help. Whether I’m completing assignments, or struggling with a new job concept or idea, everyone is so willing to share their knowledge.”

Elin is obviously doing something right as her hard graft not only vanquished the many challenges she’s faced on her journey, but also helped scoop the Leonardo award for England Electronics Apprentice of the Year (Second Year), and UK Electronics Apprentice of the Year (Second Year).

Would she recommend an apprenticeship to people looking to make that first step in their career?

Elin emphatically answered, “100% yes!

I have done GCSEs and A-levels, but my apprenticeship allows me to gain qualifications that I can apply directly in a real-life working environment.”

You can find out about apprenticeships by visiting www.apprenticeships.gov.uk

ONE TINY STEP Five ways to improve wellbeing: 1. Connect 2. Give 3. Keep Learning 4. Be Active 5. Take Notice.

Go online or scan the QR code for details of Luton’s Five Ways

to Wellbeing Campaign and mental health services. luton.gov.uk/5waystowellbeing

For more information visit

https://bit.ly/3Rbcpzj 29

luton adult learning Open up your possibilities

Luton Adult Learning (LAL) offers you pathways to education, employment and setting personal goals – even if you thought the gate was closed.

We provide adult learning to help you find a new job, start an apprenticeship, build your confidence or support your children at school.

Join our free Passport to Employment classes!

Our training: •

Apprenticeships, including Customer Services, Adult Social Care, Early Years and Childcare, Support Teaching and Learning and Leadership and Management.

•

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Function Skills English, maths and ICT. GCSE English and maths

•

Family Learning - for those who want to support their children’s learning and development

•

•

Community Learning - a variety of non-accredited courses that will boost your confidence, reduce loneliness, improve your wellbeing and help you access further learning opportunities Multiply - numeracy courses to build your confidence with numbers

Whatever your story is; for example, you may be unemployed, just looking to add a few strings to your bow, or wanting to upskill so that you can change career or gain promotion then the chances are that LAL has already benefited someone like you, Anna, Adam or Zara.

Anna’s learning journey began when she joined one of our ESOL classes after finding it difficult to communicate within her newly-adopted community.

Talking to classmates gave her the confidence to pass entry exams in reading, writing, speaking and listening, and inspired her to enrol on further LAL courses, including childcare, in which she now works.

Adam contacted LAL after suffering from mental health issues during lockdown. A self-confessed technophobe, he conquered fears that had previously held him back by embarking on a basic IT course, coupled with a Mental Health and Wellbeing class.

Adam feels he has reconnected with society now and is in the process of selecting his next LAL course.

30

Are you unemployed, returning to work or looking for your first role? Looking to get back into education or training and interested in learning new skills? Want to build up your confidence or learn new skills or improve your English and Maths?

Our classes will provide you with the preparation for employment that you need, including: •

CV and Cover letter writing

•

how to be at your best in an interview

•

improve existing skills

•

improve digital and IT skills

•

receive details of vacancies from local businesses

Passport to Employment courses are also available for those over 16 as part of the Building Better Opportunities programme.

Zara has a sight impairment, which presents challenges in life that she is determined to overcome.

LAL provided her with a Functional Skills English course, and has dedicated a learning support assistant, Caroline, to assist her. Caroline was once a learner herself, yet has now secured a job at LAL. This helps her totally understand Zara’s needs so she can be a full participant in the lessons.

We are always offering new courses, so visit our website to get the latest information www.lutonacl.ac.uk For more information and to book your free place, call 01582 490033 or email passport@lutonacl.ac.uk

The Journey to

Independence Could you support a young person in your home and help them develop key skills which will assist them to lead an independent life? If so, then consider becoming a Supported Lodgings host.

Luton Council has launched a new Supported Lodgings scheme where you can share your home with a young person aged between 16 and 25 years, with the aim of helping them to build and develop the confidence and necessary skills for independent living.

As a host you don’t require any formal qualifications, yet must have a suitable spare bedroom.

You should be able to offer nonintrusive support and equip young people with the skills they need to succeed and move on to living independently in their own home.

This scheme is part of a range of options for young people preparing to leave care, who need a little extra support.

In return, the council will provide hosts with an income of £200 per week, a start-up grant to purchase essential room furnishings, as well as training and support.

If you’re interested in becoming a supported lodgings host call 01582 547633, email SupportedLodgings@luton.gov.uk or for more details visit www.luton.gov.uk/supportedlodgings

Could you be a supported lodgings host?

Share your home with a young person (16-25 years) and help them develop the skills for independent living.

You will receive: • £200 per week • Start-up grant to purchase essential items • Training and support Interested in becoming a host?

01582 547633 SupportedLodgings@luton.gov.uk www.luton.gov.uk/supportedlodgings 31

Fly to London by coach.

Travel from Luton Airport to London on one of our comfortable coaches.

With more buses at peak hours.

And with our comfy seats, onboard WI-FI and USB port, time will just fly by. £12 single, £18 return* and £35 for a Family return ticket

Book now at greenline.co.uk *Return ticket to be used within 3 months 32