www.knowlewest.co.uk
In partnership with Knowle West Alliance
Photo: Ibolya Feher
WINTER 2021/22
First We Can Make homes ready in January p 7
Residents are being urged to comment on plans for an £8.4 million “world class” Youth Zone to be built in Knowle West. The facility is being developed by OnSide, in partnership with local charity Youth Moves and Bristol City Council. It will be purpose-built for young people aged eight to 19-years-old, or up to 25 for those with additional needs, to go in their leisure time. The proposed site is on land close to Hengrove Way roundabout at the back of Inns Court – which sits on the boundaries of four South Bristol wards. Events were held on 6 December at Inns Court Community and Family Centre and on 7 December at The Park to reveal the designs. And a meeting is being held for local residents at Inns Court on 5 January – following fears local people were not
Eco Warriors tree planting at Oasis Academy Connaught p 3
being given enough opportunity to be heard. In a statement, Inns Court Residents Group said: “The Inns Court Residents Group is fighting for opportunities for everyone to find out more about the plans for the Youth Zone. “It’s important that local residents can get the facts so that they can decide for themselves what they want to say about it. There are lots of different points of view. Continued on p 2
Knowle West's own herbal tea p 11
Image: Ella Chedburn
Have your say on plans for £8.4 million Youth Zone for South Bristol
Who are we?
O
fficially launched in spring 2019, the Knowle West Alliance is a growing partnership of local residents, organisations and business.
What do we do?
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nowle West Alliance (KWA) is a network - we collaborate and we support each other. We believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we seek out opportunities for people to have a say on things that matter to them. We know that people have different opinions about what is important, and that every voice should be heard.
Working Group Voices
Claudia Collins (local resident) Back in 2020 I applied for a Small Grant from the Knowle West Alliance for my project Brislexic. Meeting local people and workers at the event gave me the confidence to get more involved with what’s going on in the community. (Continued from front page) “The residents' group pushed for the December exhibition to be really local. In January we want to have a productive and useful conversation with the developers and councillors and we want all our residents to be heard.” In a letter to residents, Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees and Deputy Mayor Cllr Asher Craig said they wanted the Youth Zone “to add to provision in the area, not replace it.” They said: “Our vision for the South Bristol Youth Zone is to deliver a safe space where children and young people can access youth support services; activities, including boxing and martial arts classes, cookery and dance classes; and world-class facilities such as a four-court sports hall and climbing wall in order to support a
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Everyone is welcome and we believe that by working together, we can achieve more. We currently have two parttime employees: Lucy Holburn (Alliance Coordinator) and Frances Coates (Community Development Worker). Our Working Group, made up
of active local residents and workers, meets monthly to direct the Alliance work. Representatives of the founding organisations (re:work, KWMC, The Health Park, The Park and Filwood Community Centre) provide strategic and practical support.
We believe in locally-led, grassroots action - which is why we run a Small Grants Programme (see p 3). We believe in the power of a connected community - which is why we are proud to partner with so many residents, local groups and organisations; providing support and opportunities to come together, learn and take action about
important local issues. Everyone is welcome, anyone who wants the best for Knowle West is part of the picture – together we are better!
www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk
#WeAreKnowleWest
From there I got invited along to the International Women's Day event at Eagle House by Anita and Margaret. Then I virtually went along to several lockdown projects. I joined the Knowle West Alliance Working group to connect the dots even further. So much is going on in Knowle West and it's exciting to be a part of it. Not only am I getting to be an active part in the community where I live but I am learning new skills too. growth in their confidence, aspirations and sense of community belonging...” There are currently 14 Youth Zones across the UK which are open seven days a week - offering 20 activities at every session. The meeting about the South Bristol Youth Zone will be on Wednesday 5 January, 6pm, at the Inns Court Community and Family Centre. Email innscourt.resident group@gmail.com for more information. The online council consultation will run until 2 January. Visit www.bristol.gov.uk/ youthzoneconsultation or for a paper copy call 0117 922 2848. OnSide is also consulting about the designs until 12 December at: www. onsideyouthzones. org/south-bristolplanning-consultation A final decision will be made by the council in spring 2022.
Alliance Small Grant Projects
able to have access to our new library.”
By Alliance Community Development Worker Frances Coates Knowle West Alliance has awarded 13 grants for local community projects since April this year and some wonderful things have been happening! The Filwood Broadway Working Group ran a consultation about the future of Filwood Broadway at the June market, Greenfield Academy’s Eco Council purchased bird boxes and wildflower seeds for their school grounds and School of Christ the King created a new library in their foyer area. Tim Purser, Deputy Head at the school, told us: “It has massively benefitted our school community, with all children (approx. 210) Small Grant sees tree planting in local school As crucial climate change talks took place at COP26 – a Small Grant helped Knowle West’s own eco warriors do their bit by tree planting in the area. Filwood Tree Champion Jim Smith guided eight pupils from Oasis Academy Connaught to plant 25 oaks in the school grounds in November. Jim says: "They were all planted, then measured - with a decorated, 100cm measuring stick - watered in and name label attached, all within one hour of starting! "Badges, decorated by the children, were given out for them to wear, to commemorate this tree planting event...
Local resident, Claudia Collins, bought a Marshall costume (from Paw Patrol) and led a community walk from Marshall Walk (get it ?!) to the cinema at Hengrove for families to watch the new Paw Patrol film - and has used the costume at other community events. Go to the Knowle West Alliance YouTube channel to watch videos about lots of the other community projects we’ve funded.
Have you got an idea? It’s really simple to apply for one of our grants. Check out how here: www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk/ grants or email frances.coates@ kwalliance.co.uk or call 0794 267 7131.
Artist Claudia Collins, dressed as Marshall from Paw Patrol, taking residents to see the film at Hengrove Cinema.
With thanks to Connaught School for permission to carry out this invaluable task..." The school's Head Gardener and Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Duncan George, said: "Oasis Academy Connaught’s recently appointed Year 5 Eco Warriors had great fun planting their oak trees with Jim. "They took great pride doing their bit towards the fight against climate change, and knowing that those trees will one day become mighty oaks, to be enjoyed by the school and local community for decades to come." The trees, labels, ties and badges were funded by Knowle West Alliance - with the oaks obtained by Bristol Tree Forum. The Alliance has funded 100 trees in total and the project will be continuing - with Jim planning to work with three more local schools this term. Story www.knowlewest.co.uk
GET INVOLVED
There are a lot of ways to get involved with Knowle West Alliance. This can range from following and interacting with our Facebook page, volunteering or applying for one of our Small Grants to sitting on our Grants Panel or becoming a member of our Working Group. You could also get involved with the COVID Action Group (p 4) or Food Action Group (p 12). To find out more, visit our website: www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk/get-involved/, email our Community Development Worker, Frances, at: frances.coates@kwalliance.co.uk or phone 0794 267 7131.
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COVID Information The Knowle West Alliance COVID Support Hub remains open this winter - so if you need help to self-isolate please contact us via the We Are Bristol (free) phone number – 0800 694 0184. We continue to be so grateful to the wonderful volunteers that help other residents with tasks such as shopping, prescription collection and dog walking #WeAreKnowleWest
COVID Action/Communication Group Knowle West Alliance coordinates a local COVID Communication Group; we get data from Public Health and everyone is welcome. Contact lucy.holburn@kwalliance.co.uk for more details. At the time of going to print, cases remain high in the Knowle West area and the advice is to take every precaution to protect ourselves, our families and our community. The evidence tells us: • Wearing a face covering reduces the chance of infection. • Testing identifies positive cases, and people who are positive and have no symptoms. • Isolation prevents transmission. • Fresh air reduces transmission. • Vaccination reduces harm and saves lives.
We are all in this together - let's keep supporting one another through what is likely to be another tough winter.
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PLANNING New futures – responding to local regeneration
Residents Regeneration Planning Group
nowle West Future has changed its shape - and now local groups are at the centre of everything for responding to regeneration in the area. These can include residents’ groups, friends’ groups or working groups. There is now a coordination group that meets every two months - as a connection point for groups and individuals. The host/ Chair is rotated among volunteers from different groups. The next meeting will be in February 2022 - check Knowle West Alliance (KWA) Facebook for details. KWA will carry on circulating information about developments and consultations - and continue to push for a more joined up approach to regeneration from the wider city. Contact: lucy.holburn@kwalliance.co.uk
There is also a new Residents Regeneration Planning Group - open to all. This group looks at, listens, and gives advice/responses on the major consultations and planning applications in the Knowle West Regeneration Area. It will also provide training for local residents on how to get involved in the planning process. The group has recently responded to the Health Park consultation and looked closely at the submitted plans for the Old Swimming Pool site. Full responses to both can be found at www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk If you would like to get involved, contact kwrrpg@gmail.com
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LOCAL GROUPS Inns Court Residents Group f: Inns Court Residents Group innscourtresidentgroup@gmail.com Friends of the Western Slopes (Novers Hll) f: Friends of the Western Slopes westernslopesbristol@outlook.com Northern Slopes Initiative f:The Northern Slopes enquiries@northern-slopes-initiative.co.uk Friends of Knowle West Health Park f: Knowle West Health Park Community Group The Park enquiries@theparkcentre.org.uk Filwood Broadway Working Group Filwood21@aol.com Filwood Residents Association f: Filwood Residents Association
Visual of planned development at Old Swimming Pool site. Image LiveWest.
PLANNING Concern about loss of play spaces in Knowle West Residents and local youth organisations are worried about the potential loss of play spaces for young people in Knowle West. They are asking for developments in the area to increase and improve the range of facilities available. Knowle West Alliance Co-ordinator Lucy Holburn said they had been contacted by concerned residents - and in response had hosted a number of meetings of local children and youth organisations. The group has recently sent a letter to the Mayor to highlight their concern and suggest there is “an opportunity to make a positive difference alongside housing development.” Lucy said: “Members of the group designed a resident survey in the summer and worked with Bristol
Over 450 objections to Novers Hill plans There have been over 450 objections to a planning application submitted by Lovell Partnerships to build 157 homes on the Western Slopes (Novers Hill). A spokesperson for Friends of the Western Slopes said: “… Most
Filwood Park footpath open next year Residents will be able to take the footpath through Filwood Park again by next year. The development of 150 houses on the land was completed by Barratt Homes in July. The scheme includes a surrounding park with play area and a community space for local groups to use – set to open soon.
Prepare for the Clean Air Zone Bristol City Council’s plan for a Clean Air Zone to tackle air pollution in the city will start operating in summer 2022. Older and more polluting vehicles will have to pay a daily charge to
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Scrapstore to professionally audit some of our playspaces. “…A letter was sent in November to the Mayor, to ask about what children and young people want, need and deserve - a range of safe, accessible, age appropriate, playable spaces across the estate.” StreetSpace based on Filwood Broadway has also written independently to the Mayor. The organisation sees around 100 young people each week – and regularly uses the multi use games area on the Old Swimming Pool site, where there are plans to build 29 new homes. StreetSpace Project Manager Sam Burrett says: “…We still need outside play space that’s
informal with no restrictions… There are some young people, who don’t wish to be in a structured area.” A Bristol City Council spokesperson said the Mayor’s Office had received the letters and was considering a response. To view the Knowle West children and youth network letter and play reports visit: www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk
people were extremely concerned about the impact on the wildlife and habitat loss and questioned why brownfield sites are not being prioritised.” A Bristol City Council spokesperson said they were unable to comment on planning applications while being considered.
Picture Danica Priest
Local people have been asking when the footpath will finally be open - which provides a useful cut through from Creswicke Road to Hengrove Way. A spokeperson for Barratt Homes said: “We are working to complete the footpath through Filwood Park by the end of January.” drive in the zone, which will include the city centre, harbourside areas and Cumberland Basin. A £42 million package will include loans and grants to help individuals and businesses upgrade their vehicles as well as support for people to switch to cleaner ways of travelling.
Picture courtesy of Barratt Homes
Exemptions will also be available to certain groups, including residents and low income workers inside the zone to give them time to prepare. Visit bristol.gov.uk/cleanairzone to see the map, check if your vehicle will be charged and register for financial support.
Local voices First We Can Make homes ready by January 2022 The first two We Can Make homes will be ready for their tenants to move into at the end of January 2022.
www.knowlewest.co.uk The community-led housing scheme has been hailed as a new way to make affordable homes for Knowle West residents - by using “micro-sites” in big back gardens and spaces between buildings.
Three people involved tell their stories:
Toni Gray (24) I currently live at home with my mum and dad and my two-yearold daughter Amancia Rose but we need more space. I have been a member of KWMC since I was 10 years old. I first got involved in We Can Make after my mum went to a meeting about getting a house. There were a few suggestions we came up with - but the one that stood out was building houses in the community. KWMC went through the legal part of paperwork, then planning took roughly two years to complete. Once planning was accepted, we started to look at building
John Bennett (57) I was living in a caravan in a yard down in St Werburghs, no running water, no bathroom facilities. It was all I could afford and it was rough! Once I'd signed up to We Can Make (WCM) things started to gain pace. I was invited to host a podcast series around housing needs and community. I was introduced to Bill and Liam, a father and son who live in Knowle. Bill was prepared to give up space in his garden for
Resident Bill Kelly (55) I live in Belstone Walk with my fifteen-year-old son Liam - and we were approached by members of We Can Make. They talked about using my garden to help a local member of the community who was homeless. I met John first, then he
Toni with her daughter Amancia and (below) with the builders.
Local people have been involved from the start in the design and build of the homes – working with Knowle West Media Centre (KWMC) and using modular construction systems. Visit: www.facebook.com/wecan makehomes materials etc. I was trained up by Chris at KWMC: The Factory where we made three walls with insulation together. I then made the rest of the walls with Hannah at KWMC for my home. Once my house is built in my parents’ garden, me and my daughter will have a lot more independence. I am looking forward to spending more alone time with her and decorating with some of the staff at KWMC - and to making it my home.
a single person dwelling, which suited me well! I was involved in the creating of a community code of practice for homes in Knowle West. I've met planners and architects, builders, and designers. We explored various types of modern house building techniques and worked on solutions and designs This gave me an in-depth knowledge of how my home was to be constructed. It's been a tough year for me, but seeing my home finally being built is very exciting, I feel lucky
to be so heavily involved in the build. I'm looking forward to the next couple of months where I'll really get to put my stamp on the place.
was introduced to my son and everyone hit it off. My garden is large and unmanageable for me. This way it can be used to help the larger community and be more accessible for me and my son. We have also worked on a bike and bin store that can house a mobility scooter and
be used in the wider community. The aspect of having the house in the garden is also good for safety if anything happens to me, my son can go there for help. The project has been great and we feel that if more people learned from history, we could keep families tighter and bring the community together.
John Bennett (left) with Bill Kelly outside his new home.
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Local voices Difficulty getting doctor’s appointments A meeting has been held with doctors at the William Budd Health Centre following complaints from patients they have had difficulty getting appointments. Filwood Councillor Chris Jackson went to the centre in November and met with staff from the Merrywood practice – after 14 residents contacted him who were mainly elderly or had young children.
Forest school at Knowle DGE receives grant A forest school is being developed at Knowle DGE – which will be enhanced with wildflowers, new trees and a vegetable patch following a grant from Knowle West Alliance. The school on Leinster Avenue has had a forestry and garden area for a number of years – but is now looking to drive the idea forward. Arts and DT Coordinator Liz Barnes, who runs the area, says students from ages seven to 18 have all been involved in developing the project. She explains: “…This has included
Two former long-serving trustees were honoured with a tree planting ceremony and the unveiling of a memorial bench at Filwood Community Centre in late November. Graham Blacker, who died last December at the age of 84 and Ann Smith who passed away in July aged 81 had been on the board of Community in Partnership (CIP) for many years - and continued when it became CIPKW. Their families attended the event along with board members and
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Cllr Jackson said concerns had been raised about access to appointments and some people felt they weren't being taken seriously. The Merrywood practice said it had had difficulties with decreasing funding and doctor numbers and “the ongoing negative impact of the COVID pandemic.” In a statement the practice said: “...We want to let you know that as a whole practice team, we pride ourselves in aiming to serve the local community as best we can in these challenging times. Part of this has involved the doctors working with our care co-ordinators to develop pathways to try and get our running an after-school gardening club where they have dug and planted trees and bulbs, painting a water butt, identifying bugs and plants, building a hide …and running a Horticulture ASDAN Focus award. “We are planning to plant a sensory garden and develop a wildflower and vegetable area.” Pupils have already taken part in a range of forest school activities - including den building, whittling and backwoods cooking. Liz says the £250 Alliance Small Grant will be used to buy centre staff - and helped plant a Japanese maple tree in the central courtyard. Another long-serving trustee, Ken Jones, who knew them both well said this was appreciation for their hard work and “what they had done for the community.” Chair of trustees for CIPKW, Tim Jones, said: “Graham and Ann were trustees of CIPKW from the beginning and refused to give up their contribution till the very end, so it is most fitting to have a memorial to their devotion.”
patients to the right professional in an appropriate time frame for the individual issues. “We are sorry to hear that on some occasions patients have felt that this not appropriate or even obstructive. We do have the pathways in place with the aim of improving patient care and trying to assure access is available for all when needed the most…” They said people who had negative experiences should contact the team – and any complaints “were taken seriously.” For full story and statement visit:
Pupils Riva and Sara starting to clear the area.
“bulbs, tools and wellington boots and wood to build bird houses etc.” Ten oak saplings are also due to be planted this term with the help of Filwood Tree Champion Jim Smith (see p 3). Image: Charlie Watts.
Tree planting ceremony in memory of long-standing trustees
www.knowlewest.co.uk
Current trustees Ken Jones, Alan Mogg and Lisa Hartrey and former chair Denise Britt (centre) with the memorial tree.
Staff at Filwood Community Centre raised £100 – and another £100 came from Creative Civic Change, which paid for the bench and its plaques as well as the memorial tree.
Local voices
www.knowlewest.co.uk
Scooter drive-by pays tribute to local legend Dan Milkins A parade of scooters and sports cars took to the streets of Knowle West to pay tribute to local legend Dan Milkins who died unexpectedly in October. The drive-by in honour of the popular boxing coach and father of six was a fitting accolade to Dan’s passion for scooters. Friends and family who turned out for the start at Filwood Broadway said “he would have loved it” and “been proud.” The convoy, which included Lamborghinis, Harley-Davidson motorcycles and Vespa scooters was organised by Skemer Winters, who runs a local boxing gym in Wedmore Vale – where Dan assisted for eight years. Tributes have been pouring in for Dan, who had just had his 55th birthday, and died during
Parade in honour of the scooter expert and boxing coach.
an emergency liver transplant in London. Skemer says: “He did the coaching course before COVID and now restrictions have lifted he got his lanyard so he could do a course with the kids – and a couple of weeks later he passed. “I’ve got a picture of him on my wall as a tribute to him because of all the work he’s done for the boxing club. “He helped me with the kids and adults and was my son Duane’s sparring partner and
he used to get him ready for his fights… “He had six boys and the three oldest ones Reece, Clark and Shay boxed…” Fundraisers were held to help the family and pay for the funeral costs, including a boxing night at South Bristol Sports Centre in Brislington. An online fundraiser was set up by Dan’s long term friend from the scooter scene, Steffan Block. He says: “His infectious smile and laughter was so amazing! Danny would glow when he walked into a crowd, and made friends wherever he went. He shall be surely missed on this planet!”
Dan Milkins with his recent boxing coach lanyard. Picture Skemer Winters.
Community remembers popular newspaper seller with “time for everyone” The community has come together to pay tribute to a popular local newspaper seller – an iconic part of the Melvin Square landscape for 32 years who passed away recently. Knowle Wester Graham Brace, who took over selling the Bristol Evening Post from his father, was a well-known figure as people chatted to him outside Connaught School – until his retirement at 65. Granddaughter Jodie Morse, who started an online fundraiser to help the family pay his funeral costs, says they have been overwhelmed by all the lovely messages pouring in. She says: “He was there every day, rain, sun and snow until he took retirement. That was his livelihood….He loved his job, he got to speak to everyone every day.
Graham was a fixture outside Connaught School on Melvin Square for 32 years.
“We have had over 100 wonderful comments from people. With everyone he was loving and compassionate, he had time for even naughty children. “Grandad was a generous, kind person, always helping other people and used to do charity work. He and my nan Barbara were together for 41 years and devoted to each other and had a fantastic life and friends…”
One of the messages of condolence was from Fay Martin who says: “Graham was a lovely guy. I did a paper round for him about 30 years ago. Won’t be the same not seeing him on Melvin selling his papers. RIP Graham. You’ll be sadly missed.” Graham was a keen skittles player in his spare time and played at Eagle House – winning a lot of a trophies. The family chose to have his wake there on 1 December as a place he loved to go. Full stories: www.knowlewest.co.uk
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Local voices
www.knowlewest.co.uk
and Mike Jay, as a “tribute to a fine footballer and talented goal scorer.” A book has just been launched The book covers from his early about former sporting legend and life growing up in Knowle until his Knowle Wester Alfie Biggs – one retirement and death in Poole, of the top footballers and goal Dorset, in 2012. scorers for Bristol Rovers. Alfie was born in 1936 to dock Nicknamed “The Baron” because worker George Biggs and his wife of his Lily - the youngest of 11 children. smart apThe family moved to Knowle pearance, West from St Jude’s in the 1930s, Alfie living first in Headford Road before played for moving to Throgmorton Road. Rovers Alfie attended Ilminster Avenue in two School and then Connaught Road separate Secondary Boys School spells – where he was selected from the for the senior football team early when two years younger 1950s up than the others. to 1968. He was the first boy to He has recently been honoured ever play in three of the in the Bristol Rovers Hall of Fame Woodcock Shield finals, in – scoring an incredible 197 goals 1949, 1950 and 1951 – an in 463 appearances with “The Gas”. Under-15s tournament for “Alfie Biggs – Bristol Rovers Bristol schools. Eastville Baron” has been Biggs also played football produced by friends Ian Haddrell for Eagle House Youth Book pays tribute to Knowle West footballer
Start a Play Street in Knowle West Children in Knowle West could be playing out safely next spring – with the chance for local people to make their road a Play Street. Play Streets are short temporary road closures organised by residents on their own street – creating a safe space for children to play together on their doorstep. Playing Out is a national organisation which started in Bristol over 10 years ago and has since helped set up over 250 Play Streets in the city. It supports children’s right to play outside for their “health, happiness and sense of belonging”– and is now calling for more
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streets to get involved for spring 2022. Bristol Play Streets Activator for Playing Out, Kate Staniforth, says: “…Outdoor play is vital for children’s health and wellbeing and Play Streets are an ideal way for children and communities to reconnect and recover post – lockdown.” For free support to start applying email kate@playingout.net, call 0117 953 7167 or visit: www.playingout.net
Club – and was selected to play for Bristol Rovers Juniors in 1951. Ian says: “I think that Alfie was simply an exceptional sportsman, as besides being a professional footballer, he was a very useful cricketer; also good at snooker, darts, golf and table tennis…” To buy a copy of the book email eastvillegas@live.co.uk Connaught Road Secondary Boys School football team winning the Woodstock Shield for the second time in 1950, in the year they were also league champions. Alfie is front row, far left. Picture Veale & Co of Bristol.
Take a small step to getting more active Looking after yourself and getting a bit of regular exercise can be tough when your kids are small. But help is at hand with Children’s Centres across South Bristol putting on fun, free sessions where mums can get active with their little ones. They are run weekly and open to mums with children under five living in South Bristol – ranging from Boogie Disco and Move Together and Toddler Yoga to Buggy Walk and Talk. Sessions are funded by the Bristol Girls Can project - a local campaign which aims to break down barriers around exercise and inspire more women to get active in the city. For details ask at your local Children’s Centre, check the Facebook page @SouthBristol ChildrenCentreHub or visit www.southbristolcc.org.uk
Local voices Creative Curry Club launching in January By Claudia Collins With no pub or curry house in Knowle West – the Creative Curry Club feels like a fun project that could be a great way to bring the community together. The idea is that one evening a month a different group or organisation would run either the food or activity. The activity could be anything - from a comedy performance or film screening to a cookalong or craftalong. The event would be a lovely way to meet friends - old and new - try new food and support the different groups in the area. We are hoping to stock a BS4 beer from Lost and Grounded in Brislington.
www.knowlewest.co.uk In November we held our first Pakora Planning Party where we talked about what we would like a curry club to look like. Heather Peet from Redcatch Community Garden who attended the event says: “It was so nice to meet with such lovely local organisations and residents to plan for a regular curry night in Filwood. “At Redcatch Community Garden, we're a big fan of curries - our chef makes an amazing Malaysian curry that we can't wait to share with the community…” If you would like to get involved in organising an activity or food, (from donating herbs from your garden to testing out sharing your hobby) email claudia.collins@filwoodcentre.org.uk For updates follow Filwood Community Centre on Facebook and Instagram @Filwoodcentre or go to: www.filwoodcentre.org.uk
Growers from Redcatch Community Garden, Let’s Grow Sharing a cuppa with friends is a Community Allotment and gardens simple pleasure which many have at Filwood Community Centre missed during the pandemic. and Knowle West Media Centre Now a project designed to bring (KWMC) met to learn how to people together and explore local develop and test the herbal teas. green spaces has resulted in Linda says: “People aren’t creating five herbal blends of growing for tea they are growing Knowle West tea. for cooking - so what we are Tools for Tea was led by artist seeing is what’s there at the Linda Brothwell who worked with moment… community gardeners to produce “The blends are not for sale, the blends. they are always free and each of the community spaces that has a blend is encouraged to have a pot of the dried mix.” The teas include chocolate mint, fennel seed and orange, devised by Jan Sanger from Redcatch Community Garden and variegated mint, parsley and nasturtium created by Bev Moss from Let’s Grow at Springfield Allotments. Linda, who has spent 20 years working in metal, has also designed a tea strainer which people can make at home. The Tools for Tea package – which Artist Linda Brothwell with local walk has been posted out to some residents leader Vincent White who received a Tools for Tea package to make his - includes the strainer kit, a map of own strainer. (Picture Ibolya Feher). local green spaces and a sample of Tools for Tea
Knowle West herbal tea. It is hoped local people will grow their own herbs at home and use the strainer for their brew - or go to community gardens to pick or buy herbs. Linda was commissioned by KWMC - keep an eye out for project updates from spring 2022. There are a limited number of tea strainers to order at: www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/tools-for-tea-teastrainer-tickets-217589444887 For more information contact georgia@kwmc.org.uk To view the make-at-home strainer video visit: www.linda brothwell.com/work/tools-for-tea Full story: www.knowlewest.co.uk The tea strainer designed by Linda. (Picture Ibolya Feher)
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Food Action Event A group of residents and local food organisations have been meeting regularly over the past year or so to talk about all things food. We believe everyone in our community should have access, skills and knowledge to prepare and enjoy good food. In September, we all came together for a food gathering at Knowle West Media Centre. Food hacks Provided by Sarah Minter (Community Access Support Service based at the Healthy Living Centre) 1. Prop spring onions up in a jar with water over roots – the tops will keep growing as you cut them to use. 2. Raspberries or strawberries going soft? Blend or mash them with sugar or honey and a little lemon juice and freeze or keep in fridge for up to four days. Recipe Provided by Mary Stokes (local resident and Filwood Community Market committee member) Beef Bourguignon - serves 4 • 700g good braising steak cut into 1 inch pieces • 100g lean streaky bacon • 400g shallots • 1 large red pepper or mixture of small coloured peppers, chopped into large pieces • 250g button mushrooms • 3 garlic gloves, finely chopped • 450ml beef stock • 150ml red wine • 1 tbsp tomato puree
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Together we started to create a food action plan (whilst also eating a lot of lovely food courtesy of The Sandwich Stop, Knowle West Health Association and Square Food Foundation!). Lots of actions, big and small were identified, and everyone who came along left the meeting with one small action they wanted to achieve – we will build on this in the new year. Claire from Square Food Foundation said: "The food action network meeting provided a much-needed morale boost for
everyone that attended. “It was so good to meet people face to face, to hear first-hand the enthusiasm and energy that people have for ways in which we can support our community and its residents, and to make some firm, clear pledges for action. I left feeling positive about the future, and looking forward to the next time we meet up." One of the actions from the event was to have a food page in The Knowledge – so here it is! We plan to meet again in the New Year to review progress. If you’d like to join the conversation, get in touch by emailing lucy.holburn@kwalliance.co.uk
3. Buy lemons and limes in packs, juice at home and freeze in ice cube trays, then put in plastic pot and freeze. 4. Like wine in sauces and gravy? Buy alcohol free wine to use instead.
5. Bread – If hard, wrap in damp clean tea towel and bake in oven on medium temperature until rehydrated, roughly 10 mins depending on size of loaf. Comes out as if freshly baked! For Sarah’s full list of food hacks go to www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk
• Keeps in fridge for ages • Cheaper (no alcohol as you cook it out anyway) • You’re not tempted to drink it!! • Dried or fresh rosemary • Dried or fresh thyme • Bay leaf if available - Make beef stock and add wine if available. If not using wine simply add more stock. - Skin and trim shallots and thinly trim bacon. Add to deep frying pan and cook for 10 - 15 mins. - Add beef and continue cooking until beef is browned. - Add garlic, mushrooms, peppers, herbs and tomato puree. - Add beef stock and wine and bring to boil. - Pour into oven dish with lid and cook at 180 degrees for approx. 2½ hours. Serve with mashed potato and a green veg of choice.
Knowle West Health Association’s Recipe of the Month If you make the recipe, take a picture, and it will be displayed in their window on Filwood Broadway! Simply email your food picture to Sarah: info@knowlewesthealthassoc.org.uk
Local organisations Let’s Grow Community Allotment to close After 10 fantastic years we are very sad to be leaving the Let's Grow site at Springfield Allotments in a few weeks’ time. Covering 1.3 acres, it is a large site with three polytunnels, two sheds and a secure store but it is expensive to keep in tip-top good order. The charity operates three other important areas of work, the largest of which is the free counselling service for between 40 and 50 clients each week. We also run community kitchen classes at Filwood Broadway and
the Friendship Club has around 30 members who meet every week at the Filwood Community Centre. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the charity funding picture, which has become very difficult indeed. This has coincided with the expiry of two major grants after several years of brilliant support. It means we are now needing to spread our remaining funds to meet the greatest needs and highest impact and it simply won't stretch to keeping the allotment. Our allotment tutor has gone to one of the schools who used our classes, so we are delighted that the work of the Forest School continues. And there is further good news from another group, who have enjoyed Let's Grow for many years - they have found new opportunities at Knowle West Media Centre's garden. www.kwha.wordpress.com Full story: www.knowlewest.co.uk
*KWHA will leave Let’s Grow on 31 December. Any local organisations keen to be part of the conversation to see how the allotment can be kept as a community asset should email lucy.holburn@kwalliance.co.uk
T
his December Square Food celebrates 10 years of tackling food poverty and teaching people to cook healthy food from our home in Knowle West! To mark this milestone, we're launching #MoreThanAMeal - an appeal to raise vital funds to reduce hunger, improve health and bring people together. Food insecurity is a very real challenge, faced by thousands of
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ilwood Hope will be celebrating 25 years of giving support and advice to Knowle West residents next year – and producing a booklet for the occasion. We offer a range of services – from help with form filling and benefit and debt advice to foodbank referrals– which are tailored to individual needs. We are looking for 25 stories from local people and volunteers, past and present, about their involvement
families across Bristol. During the pandemic, visits to food banks in Bristol tripled and this need shows no sign of slowing. We want to raise £20,000 over 10 days from Thursday 2 – Sunday 12 December, enough to teach 1,000 adults and children to cook in 2022 – and we need YOU to help us get there. Thanks to match-funding from major donors including Nick Campsie and our friends at Burgess Salmon, the first £5,500 of donations will be doubled. To donate visit: https://localgiving.org/appeal/morethan ameal/ www.squarefoodfoundation.co.uk with Filwood Hope - to go into the booklet. If you have a story to tell email Pearl at pearl.aitken @filwoodhope.org For help and advice call 07712 661 241 or email advice@filwoodhope.org
O
ur Christmas party for kids is on 19 December - and funds raised will go towards the Easter party so we can build events up as we go along. Check out our social media for more information about our 60th anniversary next year. We’ll be putting more details in the March 2022 edition of Facebook: The Knowledge. groups/novers
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www.kwmc.org.uk / 0117 903 0444 / @knowlewestmedia / @kwmcthefactory
Free arts and tech activities for everyone. Please contact enquiries@kwmc.org.uk for more information and to find out how to apply for any of our activities.
What’s on at Knowle West Media Centre? For Young People After-school programmes: Running Monday to Wednesday at KWMC and KWMC: The Factory, 4.30-6pm for 10 to 16-year-olds.
For Artists and Creatives A project night for artists, creatives and community to share ideas and connect on Thursday 16 December.
Work experience: available for Year 10 students next year - get in contact to find out more and sign-up.
Follow us on our socials to keep updated on: • Workshops being held with local people to create an “A-Z of Care” • Opportunities to visit our new railing art created by young people and illustrator Yoli Ward-Streeter • Opportunities to join our Factory community of makers, hobbyists and creative businesses! • A two-month course run by 16 to 18-year-old women interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths). And much more!
Photo: Ibolya Feher 2021
In case you missed the Come Together Weekender - find out more and listen to audio and podcasts at: https://kwmc.org. uk/projects/come-together/ www.filwoodcentre.org.uk For more information call: 0117 914 9216 email: info@filwoodcentre.org.uk Filwood Community Centre, Barnstaple Road, Knowle West, BS4 1JP
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Welcome Rising High
Everybody Dance Now
Charity walk raises thousands
A baking group which makes the best bread in Knowle West is now based at our centre. Rising High, which also makes cakes and cooked dinners, is for men who might be going through a difficult time. Craig Richards, who runs the group alongside Pat Chant (pictured), says it’s “a hub for learning new skills” and “to help create friendship networks within the local community.” Rising High meets every Thursday from 8am. Contact us for more information.
An exciting new group that combines dance and craft making has started at our centre. Weekly classes are leading up to a performance celebrating the Lunar New Year at the Filwood Community Market on Saturday 5 February. The group meets on Wednesdays from 6-7pm. Email claudia.collins@ filwoodcentre.org.uk
A charity walk from Knowle West to Cheddar has raised more than £3,600 for Suicide Prevention Bristol.
The 20-mile journey on 16 October started at our centre at 8am, finishing at the Riverside Inn pub at 4pm. About 20 people took part in the trek, which Kim James-Coggins organised following the passing of her cousin, Ali. Kim also runs the Slimming World classes at our centre. Call or message her on 07920 023 170. Make sure you follow our socials for more centre updates.
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Knowle West Healthy Living Centre’s Wellbeing Groups
Helping you to achieve better health and wellbeing, no matter where you are starting from Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road, Bristol, BS4 1WH T: 0117 377 2255 E: info@knowlewesthealthpark.co.uk
New project worker for Man Alive! The Health Park would like to welcome John Green as the new project worker for the Man Alive! project. Throughout the summer the Man Alive! group have done a brilliant job planning and running activities themselves; from walking to gardening and not forgetting the monthly men’s breakfast.
Man Alive! is a group for men in Knowle West and South Bristol. The group’s open to everyone, so whatever your age, background or interests, it’s for you! We do lots of different activities including social events, playing sports and working in the community, all planned with the group. John has begun to meet some of the group whilst making ghost ships at the Underfall Yard and will shortly be doing some bushcraft in Failand. If you’re feeling low or isolated, our popular art groups may offer a solution. Some of the benefits people have experienced are improving self-confidence, making new friends, and learning new skills and methods of self-expression. Although
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What can you do to reduce your bill? Little things like not filling your kettle or making sure all your light bulbs are LEDs is
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Walking Groups Enjoyable walks for people of varying levels of ability, mobility or fitness. Benefits of regular walking include meeting other people, exploring green spaces and exercise with others to keep you motivated. Not to mention the health benefits, which include reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
Art Ease – Art on Referral
www.reworkltd.org.uk
as prices have risen 250% since January and 70% since August, according to industry group Oil and Gas UK. The price of gas has a knockon effect on the cost of electricity (as 42% of electricity in this country is generated by burning natural gas). In the past re:work has helped people reduce their energy bill by switching energy providers, but at the moment, all the providers are charging about the same.
anybody is welcome, this activity is aimed at people with mild to moderate mental health needs.
estimated to save £6 and £30 (respectively) per year. The Energy Saving Trust – quick tips (www.energysavingtrust. org.uk/hub/quick-tips-to-saveenergy/) can give you an idea of what changes make the most difference. If you need LED lightbulbs, re:work can give you some for free (until we run out). Just pop into our office between 9.30 am and 3.30pm Monday to Friday (no 16 Filwood Broadway) or find us at the monthly Community Market on Filwood Broadway.
www.knowlewesthealthpark.co.uk Making sure your home is draught proofed can make the biggest impact. Re:work offers free heat loss surveys (through the Cold Homes Energy Efficiency Survey Experts CHEESE project) to people with BS4 and BS13 postcodes. They really help you identify where your home needs work. Pop into the office (above) or call: 0117 9530689 to find out more. If you need further advice, the Centre for Sustainable Energy has a free phone advice line: 0800 082 2234.
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Ofsted rated ‘Good’, October 2021
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theparkcentre.org.uk Daventry Road, Knowle, BS4 1DQ
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allenging year, we would like to ing young peopleAand familieswelcome warm nity we work with around Knowle West.
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We also welcome new staff to our team – and are delighted to have Levi Hodge as a full-time youth worker, alongside Bronwen Fowler and Ruby Yip. They have now all started, and we are sure you will see them around the patch in South Bristol. Check out our website www.youthmoves.org.uk and Facebook page: Youth-Moves to find out more about what is going on.
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FESTIVE WASTE COLLECTIONS Over the festive season your waste collection dates change slightly to allow for bank holidays. Check when we’ll be coming to you on the calendar below. Thank you and happy holidays!
Why not cut out and keep this advert as a handy reminder Your usual collection day Mon 27 Dec Tue 28 Dec Wed 29 Dec Thur 30 Dec Fri 31 Dec Mon 3 Jan Tue 4 Jan Wed 5 Jan Thur 6 Jan Fri 7 Jan Mon 10 Jan Tue 11 Jan Wed 12 Jan Thur 13 Jan Fri 14 Jan Mon 17 Jan Tue 18 Jan Wed 19 Jan Thur 20 Jan Fri 21 Jan Advert
Revised collection day
Put yo with y ur TREE ou our t bin co first wheeli e llectio n from Wed 1 2 Janu ary
Wed 29 Dec Thur 30 Dec Fri 31 Dec Tues 4 Jan Wed 5 Jan Thur 6 Jan
DOWNLOAD Never miss a collection – download your 2021/22 collection calendar from: www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive
Fri 7 Jan Sat 8 Jan Mon 10 Jan Tues 11 Jan Wed 12 Jan Thur 13 Jan Fri 14 Jan Sat 15 Jan Mon 17 Jan
DON’T FORGET You can take trees to your nearest Recycling Centre. Garden and bulky waste services pause over the Christmas period. For top tips and festive hacks visit: www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk/festive
Tues 18 Jan Wed 19 Jan Thur 20 Jan Fri 21 Jan Sat 22 Jan
Normal collections from Mon 24 January
Directory Useful contacts: Bristol South MP Karin Smyth - karin.smyth.mp @parliament.uk 0117 953 3575. Filwood Councillors cllr.christopher.jackson@ bristol.gov.uk cllr.zoe.goodman@bristol.gov.uk Knowle Councillors cllr.christopher.davies@ bristol.gov.uk cllr.gary.hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Support: Young Minds Text YM to 85258 for urgent mental health support. Available all day every day. Independent Mental Health Network (IMHN) has a range of support numbers: https://www. imhn.org/coronavirus/guide/ bristol-home/ Mind: (mental health support): 0808 8080330
www.knowlewest.co.uk Peer Support Group Wed at Redcatch Centre from 1.30-3.30pm for ages 18 plus. Visit www.changes bristol.org.uk for info.
Groups:
Gardening Friends of Filwood An online community to share, learn and grow. Food clubs: Join the Facebook group. Inns Court Family and Slimming World Community Centre: Thurs Mon and Fri at Filwood 1-3pm. 1 Marshall Walk, Community Centre. Contact BS4 1TR Contact: janet. Kim on 0792 002 3170. nawrocki@bristol-schools.uk Bristol Parent Carers Support Groups (SENDIAS Oasis Connaught Community Hub: Fri 1-3pm. service) Melvin Square, Bristol BS4 Next ones: Thurs 16 December and 27 January, 1NH. Contact: Sammy.Ball 10.30am-12.30pm at Inns @OasisConnaught.org Court Community and Weekly cooking courses Family Centre. www.bristol for 50 families. Visit: parentcarers.org.uk Facebook Oasis Hub South Bristol. Our Time Foodbank Salvation Army in Padstow Road. For self-referrals. Tues 11am-2pm. Visit Facebook: Bristol South Salvation Army
Women’s group. Re-starting Thurs 13 Jan, 9.30-11am at Filwood Community Centre. Email: ourtime.bk@outlook. com
Eagle House Wednesday Club Courses: Over 50s, from 12.30-3pm. Cooking Support for Cancer Call Pat on 0117 963 6009. National Domestic Abuse Free online cookery classes. Helpline: 0808 2000247 Next dates 13 Dec, 24 Jan, Families/Young People: Age UK: Local support helpline: 28 Feb. Visit www.square Under 15s Girls’ 0117 9297537 foodfoundation.co.uk Football Team Bristol Mental Health: (if emergency): 0300 5550334
Citizen’s Advice Helpline: 0808 2082138 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).
Community Learning offers free courses for adults aged 19 plus who may have few or no formal Carers Support Centre: qualifications. Help to get Carers Line 0117 965 2200 online. Tablets and laptops WECIL: Weekly check in and for loan for some courses. chat service for disabled adults: For more info contact Lucy 0797 368 6389. on 0778 835 3446 or email Support Hub: Help with a variety lucy.fieldhouse@bristol. gov.ukwww.community of things from shopping and learningwest.net/all-courses/ prescription collection to access to emergency food. Health and Open 8.30am – 5pm, Mon-Fri. Wellbeing Classes Call 0800 694 0184. Knowle West Healthy Living Centre offers a range of Free counselling online sessions from seated Wait list but please email: exercise and Tai Chi to counsellingcoordinator@knowle Zoom Fitness. Visit www. westhealthassoc.org.uk or call knowlewesthealthpark. /text: 0734 007 9316 to be co.uk/services/all-services/ added to it. MAKEease Filwood Hope Making on referral. Tuesdays Filwood Hope is open Mon to 10am-12pm at KWMC in Thurs 9.30-1pm for help and Leinster Ave. From 11 Jan advice (See p 13). Call 0771266 - 15 Feb. Call KWHLC on 1241 or email advice@filwood 0117 377 2255. hope.org
Wed 5.30-6.30pm at The Park Centre. Call Paul on 0795 765 8881. Knowle West Bike Club Tues evenings at Newquay Road park for ages 8 plus. Facebook Grass Root Communities. Saplings Toddler Group Salvation Army Hall in Padstow Road for 0-4s, Thurs 10.30am - midday. Facebook: Bristol South Salvation Army.
South Bristol Children’s Centres For family activities, visit www. southbristolcc.org.uk or Facebook @SouthBristolChildrenCentreHub Filwood Community Centre Range of activities for children and young people including dance, boxing, martial arts and circus skills. Visit: www.filwood centre.org.uk Boing! Inns Court Soft Play and Café for 0-5s and their parents and carers. To book: www.iccfc.co.uk. Inclusive Cricket Sessions Starting 13 January at Hengrove Leisure Centre. Email steve.gass @somersetcricketfoundation.org or call 01823 352266. Events: Lantern Walk with Carol Singers Wed 15 Dec 4.45pm at Knowle West Health Park. Bring a lantern. Refreshments provided. Eagle House Christmas Prize Draw Night, Sun 19 December from 4-6pm. (Draw 6pm). For more events and regular activities visit Facebook eagle.house.71 St Barnabas Church Nativity Sunday 19 Dec, 10am, Midnight Mass 24 Dec, 11pm and Christmas Day Celebration 25 Dec, at 10am. Redcatch Community Garden Visit Facebook page for activities and events. Youth Zone Meeting Wed 5 January, 6pm at The Inns Court Community & Family Centre. Contact innscourt.residentgroup@gmail. com for more info.
Filwood Community Market First Sat of the month, 10am-3pm My Wild Child on Filwood Broadway (except Wed 10–11.30am during January). For a stall, to volunteer term time, on Northern or busk email filwoodcommunity Slopes.Outdoor play for markets@gmail.com ages 2-4. Meet Bommie The Sprint Trips entrance (next to 105 Wedmore Vale). Must book. Including shopping, meals and days out. Contact the office at Visit www.avonwildlifetrust. org.uk or email alex.dommett Inns Court Community & Family Centre on 0117 904 8215. @avonwildlifetrust.org.uk Skemer’s Boxing Gym Visit www.skemerscbc.com
Visit www.knowlewest.co.uk for more events, stories and information or Knowle West Alliance Facebook page.