Magazine Autumn 2022Latest news and information from your Council Bexley Help for those who need it most Looking after your SafetyCommunityhealthsurvey Local information – community news - what’s on
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Welcome As young people across our borough begin a new school year we wish them all the best. I know that it has been a difficult couple of years for students and their families. As this magazine went to print young people were set to receive their exam results. I feel sure that they will do the borough proud and once again demonstrate the resilience of our community. We are all aware of the impact that the rise in the cost of living is having and we are determined to protect those who are most vulnerable. That’s why we have decided to use the recent Government grants to provide assistance to those most in need. You can read about the people and organisations that are set to benefit from those grants on page 9. As we look forward to the autumn leaves, Halloween and firework night it is important to also think about fire safety. Our ‘six things’ page has brought together some London Fire Brigade tips to help us to enjoy ourselves and avoid accidents. Please take care and remember these important rules. Council or would like either please call our Contact 020 8303 7777, quoting reference: 602063/9.22 Bexleyheath DA6 7AT
3 News Inside your magazine 19 Going digital 22 6 fire safety tips
provides,
Customer
London Borough of Bexley, Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street,
Phone: 020 8303 7777 • Website: www.bexley.gov.uk • Email: Distributedcommunications@bexley.gov.ukfreeofchargetoeveryproperty in the borough Editorial: Bexley Communications Team. Designed and produced by: Bexley Graphics. London Borough of Bexley does not accept responsibility for goods or services offered by advertisers. 9 Healthy Start 7 Black History Month All our yesterdays 24 Local information 25 What’s on 26 -27 Services 29 Local organisations 30 8 Stoptober
X
Proposed
expansionULEZ
The Council’s detailed response explains that -
The costs of implementing the ULEZ have not been properly considered and alternative options have not been properly
The Council challenged the way the consultation was presented and argued that the Mayor of London has not properly considered the implications of the proposal.
X
Bexley submitted its detailed response to Transport for London’s consultation on the proposed expansion of the capital’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) as part of the consultation that ended last month.
X
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X
The charge is a regressive tax, disadvantaging lower income families who cannot afford to pay the charge or buy ULEZ compliant vehicles It also puts further pressure on household finances, when energy, food and other prices are rising Non-compliant vehicles are likely to be bought by people in areas outside the ULEZ, where they will continue to impact on air quality and climate change
X
Bexley has a high level of car ownership due to the lack of modern public transport links serving the borough and could have over 28,000 non-compliant vehicles Key workers in sectors such as health and care who rely on their cars to visit patients will be unfairly penalised, with no exemptions or discounts offered It will put an extra burden on Bexley’s small businesses, which are particularly reliant on cars and vans X The ULEZ charge will deter people from outside the capital who wish to drive into London to work, shop, see family, friends or visitor attractions
X
X
TheassessedCouncil also said that future road charging should not be implemented until significantly enhanced public transport connectivity and reliability has been achieved.Bexley’s response draws attention to the fact that the Mayor of London does not have a mandate for ULEZ expansion because it was not included in his election manifesto in 2021. By contrast, it was a key issue in Bexley’s elections in May, when there was broad support for the Council’s opposition to the proposal.Youcan read the response in full at www.bexley.gov.uk/ response-ulez-consultation
Erith Belvedere Welling Crayford Sidcup BEXLEY
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All aboard the Elizabeth Line
Leader of the Council, Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE said: “I hope that these talks will resolve the issues that led to the dispute and that we will see an end to this action that has caused so much disruption for our residents. I would like to thank all our residents for their patience during this difficult time and all the local people and volunteers who have helped others in the community.’’ waste-collection-disruptionwww.bexley.gov.uk/
The school opened initially in 2021 in temporary accommodation.
12 trains an hour run every 5 minutes between Abbey Wood and Paddington from 6:30am to 11pm, Monday to Saturday. When work on the entire length of the line is complete, services will run to Heathrow and on to Reading. Bus services to Abbey Wood Station have been increased since the new service started to operate. Large numbers of bicycle parking spaces are also available close to theMorestation.information gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/https://tfl.
Students of the new Cornerstone School will be moving into their permanent premises this September.
Although north-south train travel in the borough can be problematic there are ways that residents across the borough can get to the new line easily using a ‘loop’ Theservice.‘loop’ service runs from central London via one line and then back via another. For example, Southeastern Trains operate a service to and from London Cannon Street looping to and from the North Kent and SidcupResidentslines. in the south of the borough can also connect to the Elizabeth Line at Abbey Wood Station via Dartford.
Using the loop connection
Cornerstone School
Cornerstone School
Since its opening this summer, the Elizabeth Line has been a great success, with around 5 million passenger journeys in the first month. Abbey Wood is currently the busiest station on the line in southeast London. The Elizabeth line has dramatically reduced journey times into London, taking passengers to Canary Wharf in just 12 minutes and to Liverpool Street in 18 minutes.
As this magazine went to print negotiations between Unite and Countrystyle were about to recommence at ACAS. The industrial action, that was suspended in July, was taken by some members of Unite employed by Countrystyle Recycling to provide street services.
Industrial action update
The new school, situated at Halt Robin Road on the site of the former Woodside School is run by Trinitas Academy Trust. It caters for students aged 11 –19 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
The new school is the second new free SEN school to open in the borough recently. Cleeve Meadow opened its doors to students in 2020. Cleeve Meadow is a special school providing 120 school places for students aged between 11-19 with moderate learning difficulties.
Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Richard Diment said: “It’s great news for families and young people that we are able to offer such great facilities for our SEN students. Both these schools provide excellent bespoke facilities where our young people can learn and grow together.”
6 news
Progress at Sidcup Storyhouse
A temporary art market will run from the 1-30 October at 68 Pier Road. The market will showcase new works by 13 artists from the local charity, Active Horizons. Over the past six months Active Horizons have been hosting a creative workshop programme with art organisations, TAPE Collective and Three Rivers. The installation aims to celebrate the diversity and creativity of Erith. Opening dates and times were to be confirmed as the magazine went to Visitprint.www.greatererith.com for more details. The project is funded by Three Rivers, an alliance of local organisations using art to build community funded by Arts Council England.
New libraries
Sidcup Storyhouse
The inside of the new Sidcup Storyhouse is progressing. Architects DRDH are working with the Council on the final fit out and plans to move out of the existing library. The Really Local Group will be fitting out and running the exciting new independent three-screen cinema in the new development. Keep an eye on the Bexley Libraries website at www. bexley.gov.uk/libraries for details of a special launch programme of events at both libraries.
Preliminary works will begin this autumn on the improvements to Riverside Gardens with the reconfiguration of some of the nearby parking bays so that the gardens can be extended. It is expected that the main works to redesign the gardens will begin during the winter and that the gardens will reopen to the public by summer 2023. The Gardens are getting a refresh as part of the funding secured from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and by London Borough of Bexley’s Greater Erith programme. Pier Square Works to improve Pier Square, one of the main public pedestrian spaces alongside the river front in Erith are complete and the upper level is open to the public offering extensive views of the Thames. The square will start being used for community events this month. Work progressing on the children’s library at The Nest
Riverside Gardens
The ThamesmeadNest, The new library at The Nest is set to be kitted out with custom library fixtures and fittings in the next few weeks including an impressive welcome counter. The Community area and Peabody office space located above the library is already open for business.
Art Market
Erith update
As we go to print Bexley Libraries were busy organising some free events for adults and children to celebrate Black History Month in October.
We are currently booking some more events including some free fun activities for children which we hope to run during half-term week.More details of all the events including dates and time and how to book will be available soon at bexley-librarieswww.bexley.gov.uk/
For adults, there will be entertaining and engaging storytelling sessions with the author and storyteller, Wendy Shearer, who will be enthralling us all with her Caribbean folktales - fabulous tales of Caribbean shapeshifters, tricksters and AfricanWendy’smyths.tales are inspired by her heritage and a childhood filled with her grandmother’s stories – her parents are from Guyana and her grandmother’s stories included a mixture of African, Dutch, Chinese, Amerindian and Portuguese stories.
The Council has welcomed the decision to open a new post office branch in Sidcup next month.
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Sidcup Post Office
Wendy will be holding her Caribbean storytelling sessions for adults at; X Central Library, Bexleyheath on Thursday 20 October at 11am X Erith Library on Thursday 20 October at 2pm
Black History Month in Bexley
The decision follows extensive lobbying by the Council following the closure of Sidcup Post Office. The new service is due to open on 21 September.
The next night market in Bexleyheath takes place on 30 September from 6pm to 10pm in the pedestrianised area of the Broadway. In addition to the usual mix of delicious food, local products, craft beers, cocktails, music, and fun activities for the kids, the night market will be co-hosted by a group of local young people. They have been chosen by their secondary schools and youth groups to participate in workshops and learn event management skills and take an active role in boosting Bexleyheath’s town centre economy. During this event, the winning secondary school team from the Youth Enterprise challenge will be announced.
The Health & Safety Executive’s (HSE) domestic gas website has useful guidance and advice. www.hse.gov.uk/gas
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is advising homeowners to get household gas appliances and pipes checked before winter to ensure homes are safe and to help keep bills lower. Homeowners should get all gas appliances regularly maintained and serviced every year by a qualified engineer listed on the Gas Safe Register. Regular servicing can help gas appliances run more efficiently and in turn save money. Help is available for those struggling to pay for checks. In some circumstances, suppliers offer free gas safety checks through the Priority Services Register. For further advice and information homeowners can contact their gas supplier.
8 Did you know, the average smoker in Bexley can save almost £2,000 a year by quitting smoking? Stoptober begins on 1 October and there has never been a better time to quit! By stopping for 28 days you are 5 times more likely to quit for good. Bexley’s Stop Smoking Service is here to help you quit with specialist help and support. To sign up for support, call 0800 783 2514 or refer yourself online at www.smokefreebexley.co.uk Are you claiming everything you are entitled to? You can use the Governments benefits calculator to check what you could be entitled to. This will give you an estimate of: X the benefits you could get X how much your benefit payments could be X how your benefits will be affected if you start work or increase your hours X how your benefits will be affected if your circumstances change Visit calculatorswww.gov.uk/benefitsTime checkto your gas
Help for those in need
The Council Tax Energy Rebate Discretionary Scheme is being distributed to the borough’s Care Leavers, Fostering Families, Shared Lives Families, and those families who receive a disability reduction in their Council Tax.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr David Leaf said: “These are difficult and uncertain times for many residents affected by inflation and the rising costs of living. We keep under regular review the support available which we can provide and this package of support will help thousands of households in need.”
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Bexley families, carers, older residents and local groups are among those set to benefit from £2 million of extra funds this year to help with the rising cost of living and the effects of the pandemic.
You can qualify for the Healthy Start scheme if you are at least 10 weeks pregnant or have at least one child under four years. You must be receiving benefits, or have a family annual income of £16,190 or less, or be under 18 and pregnant. After you apply you will get a prepaid card which is topped up with funds every four weeks.
For more information on how to apply for Healthy Start www.healthystart.nhs.uk
SOLACE
StartHealthy Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/cost-of-living
Each eligible family was given supermarket vouchers for use during the six-week summer holidayCarers,break.including the borough’s young carers, will also benefit from the fund in recognition of the valuable support they provide to family members and their loved ones. Older people who are part of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme will also be allocated funding from the DWP scheme.
These local community support groups will also receive funds –X Energy Café X Foodbank Grant X Womens Aid X Citizens Advice Bexley
The Council took a local decision in July on how the next phase of the Household Support Grant from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Council Tax Energy Rebate Discretionary Scheme from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities will be shared across the borough.
The Household Support Grant was distributed to families who receive free school meals and attend a Bexley School.
The Healthy Start scheme is a Government funded programme that aims to help parents give their young children the best start in life by subsidising food shopping.
Joanne Rollings Deputy Head of Accommodation and Community Services, Solace, said “The money received could not have come at a better time, we are so thankful, we have been able to reduce the pressure on service users in a time of crisis.”
our foster carers
Julie said: “I hope that we are the friendly face of foster caring. Having so much experience means that we can help with most things even if that is just listening.” Tracy concludes: “It is about letting the new carers know that they are not alone. We are a phone call away. Our support is here when and if they need it.’’ Find out more about Fostering in Bexley. visit our website fosteringwww.bexley.gov.uk/ or talk to a friendly member of our Fostering Team on 020 3045 4400 between Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm or email fostering@bexley.gov.uk to find out more.
Julie (left) and Tracy
Sasha is a new foster carer. Tracy is her mentor. She said: “As a new carer I was allocated a mentor. This service was invaluable. I was never alone day or night, my mentor was just a call away and my confidence grew. This service helped me progress to be the best carer I could be.”
To join, please email fostering@bexley.gov.uk or call 020
4400 X 15 September, 6pm to 7pm X 20 October, 6pm to 7pm X 17 November, 6pm to 7pm Online InformationFosteringSessions
Julie and Tracy are both Foster Carer Mentors for Bexley. They are Foster Carers with, between them almost 35 years’ experience, of fostering for the borough. Four years ago they were approached to help set up the mentoring scheme which is designed to support new foster carers. Since then, they have been there to provide help to anyone that needs it.
Julie cares for younger children. She is currently supporting six fostering families. She said; “When a prospective carer goes to panel they are assigned a mentor who would best suit the age range of children they are looking to care for. From then on, we are their contact. We are on call to them 24/7 and the amount of contact depends on the kinds of issues they may face. It could be help with a medical appointment, understanding jargon or simply a sounding board.’’ Tracy fosters older children. She has three families under her mentorship. She continues: “We often help with forms, diaries, and reviews. It can be daunting at first and we help new carers to get used to the system. We all want what is best for the children and young people and if having us there to speak to when they start out then it is all worth it.”
Join and speak to a Bexley foster carer and a friendly member of our fostering team find out what It’s like to foster a child with Bexley. 3045
Bexley Foster Carers receive extensive training and support. Foster Carer Mentors are in place initially for six months but that can be extended if needed.
our Thursday online information sessions
to
Supporting
10
Our new Director of Public Health
A new area of London, a friendly Council, and a role that I know I can make an impact and improve population health. This is an exciting time for health and social care with the launch of the Integrated Care Systems and an exciting opportunity for Bexley.
The Council’s Cabinet approved a revised Adult Social Care Charging Policy at its meeting in July.
Tell us a bit about your previous roles?
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Fairer policy on adult social charges
I have been a Consultant in Public Health in Hackney and the City for eight years, leading on children’s public health, mental health and substance misuse, prior to that I was a Public Health Consultant in Haringey for five years. I also work as a part-time salaried GP in Leyton for a session a week. I also have global health experience having worked for Médecins Sans Frontières in South Sudan and Kenya and the World Health Organisation in Haiti. What will be your biggest challenge?
What are your main priorities in your new role?
1) Recovery from COVID, particularly in the economic climate
Nicole Klynman, is Bexley’s new Director of Public Health. We caught up with Nicole and put a few questions to her about her new role in the borough.
What attracted you to the role of Public Health Director in Bexley?
It’s always a challenge getting up to speed quickly. Relationships are key to improving health outcomes so I have loads of meetings to get to know colleagues across health and social care and in the voluntary sector.
2) Key areas that have been impacted by COVID – immunisations, weight management and physical activity
Councillors heard that the revised policy was the fairest and most proportionate system that the Council could put in place. It includesX a banded approach to arrangement and management charges for people who ask the Council to arrange their care X a more generous Minimum Income Guarantee for the most severely disabled working age adults X a new appeals process for anyone who is unhappy with the outcome of charging assessments.
3) Ensuring that all our pathways and services have prevention at the very core. Learn more about looking after your health in Bexley gov.uk/health-and-wellbeingwww.bexley.
The Cabinet reviewed the response to a 12-week consultation earlier this year. Most people who responded understood the reasons for the revised policy and were supportive of the proposals. Council officers have written to everyone affected to advise them of the changes and to let them know when the new charge - or any reimbursement of charges paid - will take place.
A career in caring at Bexley
Patience said: “My interest in social work developed when I completed my degree in education and maths and chemistry and became a science teacher. I always had a keen interest in people on an individual and societal level and it felt like a natural progression joining the social work profession.Thisled me to apply for an MA in Social Work at Goldsmiths college. I enjoyed my course immensely and in my final year I became interested in learning more about working with children and child protection.
Evelyn attended Greenwich University as a mature student and qualified in June 2017 and began work for the Borough in August 2017 in the Hospital Discharge Team. Evelyn said: ‘‘I work in the Complex Care Team within ASC. A very busy environment that can very often be challenging. Expectations with regard to what Social Services can do are very high! Every day if different.
careers
The best bits for me are the support in this team, we all look out for and support each other, Group supervision is a great help and also peer support. We also have wellbeing meetings which offers a safe space to offload when time allows.
To find out more about job opportunities in social care in Bexley visit www.bexley.gov.uk/jobs
I would definitely recommend Adult Social Care to others, it is very interesting and I feel it’s a “long haul” career. It is also wonderful to hear from grateful families who appreciate what you have done to improve outcomes for them.’’
Children’s Social Care Patience Idowu has been working in Children’s Social work for 17 years. She manages a service which serves as the ‘front door of children social care’. There are three teams within the service Patience manages. The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), the Out of Hours Service (OOH) Team and the No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Team.
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Adult social care Evelyn Scott is a Senior Social Worker in the Complex Care Team within Adult Social Care in Bexley.
Many of us want to make the world a better place, but we are not quite sure how to go about it. Being a social worker, you are in a position to solve problems and help others, and there is a good chance that you will end up being that person that changes someone else’s life.
Social work provides varied secure job opportunities and the entry level salary for a social worker is not bad at all. Come and join the social work profession.’’
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Bexley’s
Since officially opening earlier this year Barnehurst Golf Club has welcomed new members from across the borough.
WALX of
13 You will make friends, encourage each other, and discover new walks in and around your neighbourhood. Regular walking can also: X Help your heart and lungs work better X Lower your blood pressure X Keep your weight down X Lighten your mood X Keep your joints, muscles and bones strong X Increase ‘good’ cholesterol Book online at www. walxinbexley.co.uk or download the WALX App from the App Store or Google Play. You will need to create an online account and complete a health questionnaire before you can book your walk. Free lessons at GolfBarnehurstClub
The Bexley Disability Sport Network aims to support organisations to provide high quality sport and physical activity for deaf and disabled residents. For more information on the network contact The Bexley Sports Inclusion Officer, Aishah Safdar on 01322 524682 or email aishah@bvsc.co.uk Sports for all Bexley Dodgers Boccia Superstars Team Mikey, Matthew, Charlotte, Jack. The team recently reached the National Boccia Finals
as
If you run a deaf or disabled sport or physical activity in Bexley and you would like to be listed on our website please contact our Sport and Leisure Team on 020 8303 7777 or email leisure@ bexley.gov.uk
Join WALX
The new Justin Rose Academy based at the club is giving 500 free ‘get-into golf’ lessons away to the local community and schools. If you enjoy your first lesson you can go on to join group, family, ladies, juniors or men’s lessons or have one-to-one lessons.Thenew Academy aims to help golfers improve their game as well as inspire new people to take up golf. barnehurst-golf-clubacademy.co.uk/locations/https://justinrosegolf Find us on Facebook and Instagram of Wellbeing Wellbeing are free walks led by volunteers who have a Walk Leader and First Aid qualification, part of a small group. The walks are a great opportunity to enjoy walking in some beautiful green spaces in Bexley including Danson Park, Bostall Heath, Crayford and Foots Cray Meadows. Our website has a number of local activities for deaf and disabled residents. Contact details for each session can be found under each activity. Booking for all sessions is essential. Visit deaf-and-disability-sportswww.bexley.gov.uk/
X Papyrus provides confidential support for young people who may struggling with their mental health. Contact HOPELINEUK by telephone 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or by email pat@papyrus-uk.org
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X Connect
Monkeypox Monkeypox is a viral infection that is spread by very close contact with an infected person. Anyone can get monkeypox, but currently most cases are in men who are gay, bisexual or have sex with men. The risk to the wider public remains low. Most people recover completely within a few weeks. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen glands, chills, and exhaustion. Currently most people with symptoms for monkeypox are tested in their local sexual health clinic. If you test positive for monkeypox you will need to isolate until all symptoms have gone. Close contacts with confirmed cases do not need to isolate but should avoid sexual or intimate contact with others for 21 days.
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If you need to speak to someone about how you are feeling, the Oxleas Crisis Line 0800 330 8590 is a 24hr telephone service for residents in Bexley. The crisis line provides an opportunity to talk to a mental health professional. You can also contact: Your GP surgery Samaritans: call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org (24-hour service) The Bexley Crisis Café - a safe and friendly place to come to if you are experiencing severe emotional or psychological distress. The service provides access to mental health support and advice from mental health and wellbeing professionals. Open 6pm to 10pm from Monday to Sunday including Bank Holidays If you or your family have been affected by suicide, contact the South East London Suicide Bereavement Service
Sexual Health Week (12 to 18 September) raises awareness about issues related to healthy relationships and sexual health. In Bexley we have a onestop website that provides all residents with information and advice on sexual health. This includes advice on how to avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections, advice on contraception, free condom services and how to find your nearest confidential Sexual HealthFindClinic.outmore at www.bexleysexualhealth.org
X
X
you can
14 health Look after your mental health
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The ‘Five ways to wellbeing’ can help you think about the different things you can do to keep a healthy mind: - talk to someone new, have lunch with colleagues and friends, pick up the phone to friends and family Be active – go for a walk, join a dance class, swimming Take notice - take a few minutes to slow down, be in the moment, and be aware of the good things around you and how you are feeling. Some people call this mindfulness or meditation Keep learning - Learning new skills can boost your wellbeing and confidence. Try something new, rediscover an old interest or take up a new hobby Give – offering your time and support to others The NHS provides general advice and tips to keep well at nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/www.
X
suicide-bereavement-servicewww.mindinbexley.org.uk/ or call 07933 393 397
Young people
Sexual Health Week
X Kooth is an on-line mental wellbeing community for young people. It provides free, safe and anonymous support www.kooth.com
If you have already had COVID-19, it’s safe to have the flu vaccine. It will still be effective at helping to prevent flu. If you’ve already had COVID-19 and are fully vaccinated, you should still get your COVID booster vaccine this autumn and winter to protect you against new variants which can develop. It’s never too late to get your first, second or booster COVID-19 jabs. Find your nearest COVID-19 vaccine clinic at uk/covid-19-vaccineswww.bexley.gov.
Over-50s and younger adults with health conditions are being reminded to come forward and get their flu jab and their Autumn/ Winter COVID-19 booster vaccine.
Polio booster
Cancer is a difficult subject to talk about and if we’re feeling OK we don’t necessarily think about– but catching it early can save lives. 1 in 2 people born after 1960 are at risk of developing cancer in their lifetime. Screening tests are the only way to detect cancer before symptoms arise. The earlier it is detected, the greater the chance any cancer treatment has of success. If you are eligible for the screening programme you will be invited to attend screening for breast, bowel or cervical cancer. To find out more about what it entails visit about-cancer/screeningwww.cancerresearchuk.org/www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/
Children aged 1 to 9 years old in London are being offered a dose of the polio vaccine. For some children this may be an extra dose on top of their routine vaccinations. In other children it may bring them up to date with their routine vaccinations. There are signs the virus may be spreading in London and the number of children vaccinated in London is lower than it should be. Boosting immunity in children should help protect them and reduce the risk of the virus continuing to spread.
Flu jab vital along with COVID vaccine
The best time to have both vaccines is in the autumn or early winter before flu and COVID-19 starts spreading and schools start. But you can get these vaccines later. If you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, research shows that you are more likely to be seriously ill.
If your child is eligible for an extra dose, the NHS will contact you to ask you to book an appointment for the vaccine. Find out more about the polio booster www.nhs.uk/ conditions/polio/
We encourage children to get COVID-19 vaccination, even if they are 5 to 11 years old.
screeningCancer
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Neighbourhood Watch is one of the biggest and most successful crime prevention schemes ever. If you are interested in becoming involved in your local watch, or becoming a coordinator, contact Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association https://bexleywatch.blogspot.comhttps://bexleywatch.org.ukbexleynw@outlook.com
I would like to build on the tremendous work already in place throughout Bexley and I am keen to ensure that this continues.’’
Bexley Safeguarding Adults Board
Bexley’s Community Safety Team, with the Police, London Fire Brigade (LFB), social services and charities, work daily to prevent exploitation and to help victims. This summer, Nicole Porter ran a Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme of fun activities for young people, including boxing and graffiti taster sessions and a Road Traffic Collision demonstration. There were also workshops about gangs and exploitation with Youth Unity, stop and search with the Police, home fire safety and street first aid with LFB. Find more HAF programme activities at activities-food-programmewww.bexley.gov.uk/holiday-
Find out more about the work of the board safeguardingadultsinbexley.comwww.
Join the biggest crime prevention scheme
Andy Rabey is the new Independent Chairman of the Bexley Safeguarding Adults Board. The Bexley Safeguarding Adults Board (BSAB) is a statutory body established by the Care Act 2014. It is made up of senior people from organisations that have a role in preventing the neglect and abuse of adults. The Board’s objective is to protect adults in its area who have needs for care and support and who are experiencing or at risk of abuse or Andyneglect.said: ‘‘I am aware of the incredible efforts made by all front-line services, charities, neighbourhoods and voluntary groups during the Pandemic to protect and support vulnerable people.
16 safety
Tackling Modern Slavery
Neighbourhood Watch is about getting together with your neighbours to reduce local crime and disorder and make your neighbourhood a safe and better place to live, work and play. Community spirit and good relations are the principles at the heart of Neighbourhood Watch. They bring local people who share common goals to tackle crime and disorderNeighbourhoodtogether.
Watch is run by volunteers that are passionate about improving their local community. They support a twoway flow of local information, key messages, alerts and crime prevention advice relevant to your local area with the aim of reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.
Modern Slavery is the exploitation of someone for another person’s gain. It can be labour, domestic, sexual, criminal, or any other kind of exploitation. We are all at risk of it, but by being aware, we can protect ourselves and help those being exploited that we would not otherwise see.
For more information,
17 Bexley residents placed car crime as their third greatest concern in the 2021 Local Authority crime survey. There are actions we can take to prevent many incidents of vehicle related thefts. Always make sure that your vehicle is locked and secure when leaving it unattended and take valuables with you. Consider investing in the below to stop potential car thievesX Steering wheel locks X Pedal Locks X Wheel clamps X OBD port locks X Tracking devices (Apple Air tags included) X Immobilisers X Key fob protectors (Faraday Bags) X Driveway Posts X An On-Board Diagnostic lock guard X Look out for a community police stand with a selection of these products and others on display. They will soon also be available at the Police shop at Bluewater. www.met.police.uk/keeping-vehicles-safe Are you concerned about safety in your area? We want to hear about your feelings of safety in the London Borough of Bexley. The Bexley Community Safety survey is a chance to highlight local crime and disorder issues which concerns you the most – and help the Bexley Community Safety Partnership set its priorities for 2023/24. The survey is open until Sunday 23 October. Visit gov.uk/communitysafetysurveywww.bexley. or scan the QR code. Free internet access is available from all our Council run libraries. Paper copies can be requested from the Community Safety Team on 020 8303 7777 or by writing to the Community Safety Team, Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT. Help stop car theft
If you haven’t got a computer don’t worry as there will be a range of tablets and laptops there for you to use. Once a month a member of staff from the Age UK Welfare Benefits team will also be there to support with Blue Badge and Benefits enquiries. There will be tea, coffee, chat and friendship available too! For more information, please contact Age UK Bexley on 020 8300 0883. Free training on Living with Dementia Age UK Bexley are offering a free training course for family members or friends of people with dementia on 2 November 10am to 2pm at Belvedere Community Centre. To book onto the course, please contact org.ukAmanda.coshall@ageukbexley. or call 020 8300 0883
The Bexley Carers Partnership, that includes Carers, the Local Authority, charities and health, have come together to work on the development of a new action plan for Carers. The action plan aims to support and enable all of our Carers in Bexley.
Men’s Group in Welling Age UK Bexley Men’s group in Welling is open for new applicants. They meet every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Wings Bar, Welling United Football Club, Park View Road, Welling, DA16 1SY. Regular activities: pool, darts, music, and a weekly quiz. Contact uksasha.barnes@ageukbexley.org. or call 020 8300 0883 for more information - or just turn up!
18 connected communities
To find out more about the plan or to get involved call 020 8302 8011 or vikkiwilkinson@carerssupport.org
Carers Support are pleased to launch new support groups for Carers for people with Alzheimer’s. The weekly ‘Memory Support’ group, for Carers and the cared for, takes place on Wednesdays from 11am to 1pm at Wolsey House, DA1 4BE. Contact Jo to book a place or for more information joanne@ carerssupport.org 020 8302 8011 Cafe Our café, serving light refreshments at Wolsey House is open every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. To support us with a donation, please see our website carerssupport.org/donating.htmwww.
Carers were welcomed to a Platinum Jubilee celebration at Crayford Manor House on 6 June. The event was hosted by Carers Support, funded by the National Community Lottery Fund and supported by the Council.
Platinum Jubilee Celebration
Do you struggle with the internet?
Are you frustrated that everything has to be done online now?
Carers’ Corner New action plan
Over 80 carers and guests enjoyed a cream tea, entertainment, and songs by a local choir VocaliseSidcup.
New support group
Age UK Bexley have started a new weekly “Digital Inclusion Befriending Café” on Fridays at The United Reformed Church Geddes Place in Bexleyheath from 11:30am to 1:30pm. This free drop-in session is for anyone over 50 who may need help with computer issues. Bring your own tablet or laptop and trained volunteers can help you make bill payments, access information, or just help you with the basics such as writing an email.
Those residents who receive a CCA letter need only respond if there are changes. Those residents who receive a CCB letter must respond whether there are changes to make or not. You are legally required to respond. If you have not responded to CCB Letter, a Canvasser will call at your property with a form for you to complete. For more information call 020 8303 7777 and ask for the Elections team or email elections.office@bexley.gov.uk
Annual canvass
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One of the ways criminals try to steal financial and personal details is by creating malicious spoof websites that appear convincingly genuine. But how can you tell if a website is the real deal or a scam?
Get Safe Online has partnered with Cifas, the UK’s leading fraud prevention service, to launch ‘Check-a-Website’. An easy-to-use online tool that allows you to check if a website is safe to use. Simply type in the www. address of the website you want to check to find out the website’s ‘trust score’. Access this new service at checkawebsitewww.getsafeonline.org/ to a-WebsiteCheckis legit
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Bexley is currently carrying out the annual canvass of eligible voters. The annual canvass allows the Council to keep the electoral register up to date, to ensure those who are eligible to vote don’t risk losing their voice at elections, and to encourage them to register before it is too late.Every household in Bexley will have received: Canvass Letter A - CCA Letter printed on Canvass Letter B - CCB Letter printed on
19 Go digital
Monday 19 September drop in event from 10am to 2pm at Blackfen Community Library. An event for any Bexley resident who would like to know more about anything to do with ‘digital’. Bring your own devices on the day to ask questions or get help to make them more accessible. In addition, there will be computers and devices available on site with a range of interactive opportunities to tryThereout. will also be a local organisations including, Bexley Police, Bexley Voluntary Service Council, Bexley Care Hub, Mind in Bexley and Oxleas talking about digital support, online referrals and services. For more information email sky@bvsc.co.uk
The Learning and Enterprise College Bexley (LECB) is an adult and community college, providing education, skills and training.
The LECB offers a wide range of modern and free or subsidised* accredited courses designed for learners as a stepping stone to employment, apprenticeship, or university degree.Courses have a variety of start and finish times to allow you to learn around your own personal life.Accredited courses at the LECB include English, Maths and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). The college also offer a range of leisure and recreational courses including Art, Floristry, Glass Making, History (London Walks), Jewellery, Line Dancing, Photography, Pilates, Pottery and Zumba.
If you are unsure about your next career step or want a change in career, or if you’re looking for a new hobby or a wellbeing course visit www.lecb.ac.uk and discover the perfect option for you.
Follow the College on social media for latest news and updates instagram.com/lecbexleytwitter.com/lecbexleyfacebook.com/lecbexley
Sign up to the LECB’s course enewsletter at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates
Come to the next Open Day Saturday 10 September from 10am to 3pm to find out more and sign up for a new course.
Find your perfect course at the LECB
Apprenticeship news Date for diary Bexley’s Apprenticeship and Participation Event will return to the Civic Offices on Monday 6 February.Theevening event brings together employers, colleges, training providers and organisations that offer adult job search support services, helping anyone aged 16 to 24 to explore local opportunities to learn and earn.
Post 16 For young people just starting year 11, the ‘Decisions Post-16 Directory’ outlines the local offer from September 2023. It will be available on our post-16 web pages at the end of September 2022. This is a great place to start thinking about what you will want to study for post-16 whether it is A level, T levels, technical qualifications or apprenticeships. Find out what you could study locally and get details of their upcoming open events. For information on everything post-16 including apprenticeship event news visit www.bexley.gov.uk/decisionspost16
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*Subject to eligibility
X Polystyrene in white/blue lidded bins – Please place in green lidded refuse bin
X
Soft plastics: Soft plastics are lightweight plastics, think plastic film lids on yoghurt pots, soft fruit punnets and ready meals, as well as plastic crisp packets.Right now, you cannot recycle soft plastics in the white lidded bin, but you can now recycle these at soft plastic recycling points around the borough. For locations visit: repeatthecyclewww.recyclenow.com/ Soft plastics recycling is easy.
X Scrunch it – Now, scrunch it up tight - if it pings back, it’s a useful indicator it’s soft plastic.
Food Waste
Placing your food waste in your food box every week means you are helping to protect local services like social care, libraries and schools.
Contaminated bins will not be collected as they can increase disposal costs. If your bin is contaminated, you should remove any contaminating items from your bins before your next scheduled collection.
X Clean it – First, rinse your packaging out.
The best thing that can happen to food is that it makes it to our plates and is enjoyed. However, some food waste is inevitable, so please ensure all unavoidable food waste is placed in your food waste box. Why recycle your food waste? Recycling your food waste rather than putting it in your rubbish bin reduces waste and helps save money. When food waste is recycled, we do not have to pay for it to be processed. When it is placed in your general waste bin it costs £120 a tonne to dispose of it.
Contamination happens when the incorrect items are put in your bins. This can lead to entire vehicle loads of recycling becoming contaminated.
Soft plastics- in white lidded binsplease see what to do with soft plastics (below)
Bexley’s key contaminates are:
Thank you for helping to keep Bexley clean and green.
X Food waste in white lidded bins –Please place in brown food box
Nappies in white lidded bins - Please place in green lidded refuse bin
Just follow these three steps:
Recycling contamination
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X Recycle it - Pop it into the soft plastics recycling drop off point
Food recyclingwastebox
Recycling your food waste has never been easier. We provide a convenient, free weekly food waste collection service. If you have never recycled food waste before, or have in the past and have stopped, now is the time to take up food recycling again. You can order a new food waste bin online at www.bexley.gov.uk/ foodboxes
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Check your home’s safe using the London Fire Brigade’s simple tool visit www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home
Electrics Never overload electrical sockets. If you must use a fused in-line adaptor – know the limits. Do not leave items on continuous charge. Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order. Only leave essential appliances switched on such as the fridge or freezer. Turn all other electrical items off when they are not in use.
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3 Cooking Never leave pans unattended when cooking. Do not cook if you are tired, have been drinking alcohol or taking medication that might make you drowsy. If the pan does catch fire do not tackle the fire yourself or try to move the pan. Never throw water onto it as this can create a fireball. If you can do so safely – turn off the heat. Leave the room and close the door. Shout to warn others to get out, stay out and call 999.
2 Smoking Smoking is the most common cause of fatal fires. Smoke outside and always make sure cigarettes are put right out. Never smoke in bed or anywhere you could fall asleep. Do not leave any type of lit cigarette or pipe unattended. Use proper ashtrays and never throw hot ash into the bin. Keep matches and lighters well out of the reach of children. If you have switched to vaping as an alternative, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always use the correct charger and never use an e-cigarette if it is damaged in any way.
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Candles
LFB believe that the best way to keep Londoners safe from fire is to help you understand common risks and reduce them in your home. Here are six top tips to help keep you safe.
1 Fit smoke alarms and test them monthly A fire can start anywhere in the home so early detection is vital. Fit smoke alarms in your lounge / living room, bedrooms, landings and hallways and fit a heat alarm in the kitchen.
fire safety tips from London Fire Brigade
candlesthatitHalloweenapproachandChristmasisimportanttorememberalthoughtheylooklovelycancauseagreatdeal of damage. Candles, tea lights and incense should only be placed in stable, heat resistant holders. Keep them away from materials that may catch fire such as curtains, furniture, papers and clothes.
6 Heating Sit at least one metre away from heaters. Keep heaters well away from anything that can catch alight and never use them to dry clothes.
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For help or advice on quitting contact Smokefree Bexley on 0800 783 2514 or visit www.smokefreebexley.co.uk
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RT/2/3/6 Abbot’s Lodge,
Danson House Danson is a Palladian villa built by Sir John Boyd in 1766. The architect was Sir Robert Taylor. The surrounding park and lake were designed by Nathaniel Richmond. Restored by English Heritage the house is now home to Bexley Registry Office. Crossness Pumping Station The Great Stink of London of 1858 led to the building of a new sewer system for the whole of London. The Crossness Pumping Station designed by Sir Joseph Bazelgette as the southern outfall of these sewers was opened by the Prince of Wales in 1865.
Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre holds the archival material for the borough of Bexley. You can visit the centre to research the history of your family, house, street, district, famous Bexley people, landmarks and events, or for help working on a school or college project. You can carry out an advanced search of the library catalogue and look for our books, pamphlets and search the newspaper index. We also have other online catalogues. Find out more and-local-historywww.bexley.gov.uk/archives-
Abbey
Red House William Morris founder of the arts and crafts movement designed the Red House in Bexleyheath as a home for himself and his family in the 1860s. It includes furniture by Morris himself and Philip Webb as well as paintings by Edward BurneJones. The exquisite house and its delightful gardens are owned by the National Trust.
24 all our yesterdays
Have you considered visiting some of the wonderful heritage sites and natural beauty spots in Bexley?
Lesnes Abbey and Woods Lesnes Abbey was a convent of Augustinian canons founded in 1178 by Richard de Luci, Chief Justiciar to Henry II, as a penance for his part in the murder of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket. It flourished for many years but was finally dissolved by Cardinal Wolsey in 1525 and the lands used to endow his planned college at Oxford.
Hall Place & Gardens Hall Place stands in elegant gardens next to the River Cray. It was built using stone from one of the dissolved monasteries by Sir John Champneys, a former Lord Mayor of London around 1540 and extended by his son, Justinian in about 1570. A new owner Sir Robert Austen added a Jacobean brick courtyard and tower to the old Tudor mansion in about 1653.
The Hidden Treasures of Bexley
RT/2/4/6 Danson Hill 1794 RT/2/4/29 Hall Place 1806
PHLS/121/50 Red House, Bexleyheath Lesnes 1800
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Louie French MP for Old Bexley & Sidcup To contact Louie French MP write to – House of Commons, Westminster London SW1A 0AA Email louie.french.mp@ parliament.uk Telephone 020 7219 5446 name, full address and details of would like Oppong Asare, MP for Thamesmead and contact Abena Oppong Asare MP - Write to: House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA, abena.oppongasare. (Bexley and Bromley) contact Peter Fortune E-mail: peter.fortune@ london.gov.uk
Email:
YOUR COUNCILLORS The London Borough of Bexley is divided into 17 wards and has 45 councillors.Tofind out which ward you live in, or for up-to-date details of how to contact your local Councillors or members of the Council’s Cabinet, please visit www.bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777 You can now search for the names of your local Ward Councillors on the Council’s website using your home post code. Visit councillorswww.bexley.gov.uk/ Sign up for our email updates www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates
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25 local information Council meetings These meetings will be webcast and available at www.bexley.public-i.tv A full calendar of meetings is published on the Council’s website at www.bexley. gov.uk/meetings Reports and information on each of the Committees, including membership, are also available online. 11 October - 7:30pm Public Cabinet 13 October - 7pm Planning Committee 2 November - 7:30pm Council 10 November - 7pm Planning 15 November - 7:30pm Public Cabinet LOCAL MPS Rt Hon Sir David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford Surgeries will be on the first and third Friday on each month, excluding August, on an appointment only basis. Please call 0207 219 8403 to make an appointment. To contact Sir David Evennett MP Write to: House of Commons, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA Email: david.evennett.mp@ parliament.uk Telephone: 020 7219 8403 Fax: 020 7219 Twitter:www.davidevennett.com2163@davidevennett Facebook: fb.com/DavidAEvennett
10am to 3pm, recurring event Danson House, Danson Park DA6 8HL Fourth Sunday of the month
Thursday 20 October 11am, Central Library, Bexleyheath 2pm, Erith Library Hear African & Caribbean folktales as told by author and storyteller Wendy Shearer during Black History Month. Hear tales of Caribbean shapeshifters, tricksters, and African myths. Wendy’s tales are inspired by her heritage and childhood. Adults only. Visit bexley-librarieswww.bexley.gov.uk/ for more Black History Month events
The Friends of Lesnes Group offer Free guided tours of the ruins.
LesnesAbbeyFarmersMarketwww.facebook.com/
Children’s University Fun Day 11am – 4pm Sunday 18 September Crook Log Leisure Centre Inflatable village, games, information stalls, food stalls, taster sessions
Wellbeing Retreat Day 8:30am to 4:30pm, Saturday 15 October £150, includes breakfast, lunch, equipment, and gift bag Experience a day of relaxation and rejuvenation with activities and workshops to nurture your wellbeing. Our aim is to support women through mindfulness and spiritual wellbeing. Email to receive a booking form. gmail.comtheschoolofmindfulhealing@ What’s on at Hall Place & Gardens Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ www.hallplace.org.uk 01322 526574 Farmer’s Market 10am to 2pm, recurring event Free entry. First Sunday and third Saturday of each month. Halloween Garden Trail 10am to 4pm, 1 to 31 October £2.50 per trail, pay on the day There are ghoulish goings on in our Halloween Garden Trail. Includes a small chocolate prize. Pick up your trail sheet from the Stables Gallery and Shop. Bring a pencil or buy one for 50p. Curious Curator Talk –Bexley Museum Collection 11am (doors open at 10:45am), Wednesday 12 October £4.60, book in advance online Join our curator as you are given a whistle stop tour of the some of the curious highlights from the Bexley Museum Collection.
What’s on at Lesnes Abbey Lesnes Abbey Woods, New Road SE2 0AX lesnesabbeywww.facebook.com/www.lesnesabbeywoods.org
what’s on! September - November 2022 Online InformationFosteringSessions To join our Thursday online information sessions please email fostering@bexley.gov.uk or call 020 3045 4400 •15 September, 6pm to 7pm •20 October, 6pm to 7pm •17 November, 6pm to 7pm Free cycling training For adults living or working in Bexley gov.ukroadsafetyeducation@bexley.www.bexley.gov.uk/cycling
SELMEC Meccano Show 2022 10:30am to 4:30pm, Saturday 8 October Falconwood Community Centre, 31–39 Falconwood Parade DA16 2PG Adults £5, accompanied children free (aged up to 16), unaccompanied children £5 See working models of cars, cranes, trains, funfair rides and more, all built from Meccano. Build a model in our ‘Make It With Meccano’ workshop or build your own model and enter it into our Creative Challenge.
The Rosemary Café 10:30am to 12:30pm, every Monday from 10 October Belvedere Community Centre, Mitchell Close DA17 6AA New weekly Befriending Café for people dementia/memory loss issues org.uksasha.barnes@ageukbexley. - 020 8300 0883 African & Caribbean folktales
AWVMarketwww.facebook.com/
Lesnes Abbey Farmers Market
Various locations around Sidcup town centre Free. Father Christmas grotto, musical entertainment, and stalls. www.sidcuppartners.co.uk
Danson ProducersHouseMarket
Murder Mystery Night 6:30pm, Friday 14 October £45 per adult (18+) A Peaky Blinders whodunit in the atmospheric Great Hall in the Historic House. Includes 3 course dinner. This event is led by Relish Catering and Event Management in partnership with Moneypenny Productions. Book in advance at info@relish. co.uk - 01322 221159
All events listed were correct at time of printing. Always check with the event venue before booking or travelling. Sign up to our ‘what’s on’ email newsletter at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates
Love Crayford Market
Saturday 26 November
Christmas Extravaganza
LoveCrayfordwww.facebook.com/ Sidcup Producers Market 10am to 2pm, recurring event Nisbett Walk, Sidcup DA14 6BT First Friday of the month
TheProducersMarketswww.facebook.com/ Abbey Wood Village Market 10:30am to 3:30pm, recurring event Abbey Arms Car Park, Wilton Road SE2 9R First Saturday of the month
Grand Autumn Fair 9:45am to 1pm, Saturday 29 October United Reformed Church, Geddes Place, Bexleyheath DA6 7DJ Entrance (accompanied50p children free)
10am to 3pm, recurring event Every second Sunday of every month. Stalls including jams and chutneys, eco-friendly products, refill services, knitting workshops, homewares, fruit and veg, plants, gifts and more.
The Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 host a variety of charity stalls selling Christmas gifts and cards, CDs and DVDs, collectables, jewellery, chutneys, jams, cakes, books, toys and games, model railway accessories. Refreshments available. Halloween Pumpkin Trail Monday 31 October. Free Sidcup High Street / Station Road Halloween trail and fancy-dress competition. www.sidcuppartners.co.uk
Age UK Men’s Group in Welling 1pm to 3pm, every Wednesday Wings Bar, Welling United Football Club, Park View Road, Welling DA16 1SY Regular activities: pool, darts, music, and a weekly quiz. org.uksasha.barnes@ageukbexley. - 020 8300 0883
theproducersmarketswww.facebook.com/
10am to 3pm, recurring event Waterside Gardens, Crayford DA1 4JJ Every second Saturday of the month
Crossness Pumping Station Family Open Day 10:30am to 2:30pm, 18 September, 16 October, 13 November Bazalgette Way, Abbey Wood SE2 9AQ 16+ £12, 5 to 15 £4, under 5s free Timings are subject to change, always check website www.crossness.org.uk
Christmas Eventmeet Santa 10am to Saturday3pm,26November - Free A fun family event with craft and activities, live music, games and fun, raffle, and the chance to meet Santa. What’s on at The Exchange
The Old Library, Walnut Tree Road, Erith DA8 1RS www.theexchangeerith.com 01322 341144 Craft Market 18 11amSeptember,-3pm-Free
Kintsugi WellbeingHopeCourse
Online updates www.bexley.gov.uk/events @whatsoninbexley
Half Term Activities for kids 25 to 29 October, various times 0 to 11s and their parent/ carer. A whole range of different activities each day from craft, stories, cooking and lots more.
Quiz at The Bookstore 24 September, 7pm to 9pm £5 per person, booking via our website recommended The Bookstore Quiz is back! Join Jade for another fun night of deliberations and drinks with friends; with rounds including general knowledge, music and history, and - of course - a prize for the winning team.
Parenting Course 8pm to 9pm, 15, 22, 29 September - Free, online Zoom session. For parents of pre-school and primary aged children. Information and discussion on how to support your child through the growing years. Zoom code will be sent when you book. Go Digital! 10am to 2pm, Monday 19 September This is a drop in event for any Bexley resident who would like to know more about anything to do with ‘digital’. People are welcome to bring their own devices on the day to ask questions or get help to make them more accessible. sky@bvsc.co.uk 01322 524 682 www.bvsc.co.uk/events
Bookstore Karaoke 15 October, 7pm to 9:30pm Free Release the performer in you at this quarter’s Karaoke night. You pick the tunes, you sing the songs, we provide the drinks and snacks.
Pumpkin Carving with Anna’s Crafting Nook 22 October, 11am to 1pm. Free Get creative with local crafter Anna in her Crafting Nook for a seasonal family workshop carving pumpkins for Halloween. This is a drop-in workshop suitable for all the family.
8pm to Monday9pm,19September
Wool + Wine 1 October, 7pm to 9pm Free Join us at The Bookstore for this quarter’s Wool + Wine event. Enjoy a delicious drink from the bar and join in the chat whilst working on your own wool work or helping us to knit and crochet squares for blankets that will be used by the community. No experience required.
Parenting Teenagers 8pm to 9pm, Thursday 20 October Free, online Zoom session For parents of secondary aged children. Information and discussion on how to support your child through the teenage years. Zoom code will be sent when you book.
Team Sikel Keyring Making 29 October, 11am to 12:30pm, 2 to 3:30pm Free - booking required via The Exchange’s website. Learn how to transform an old bicycle inner tube into a keyring with local artist and business owner Kelly. All ages are welcome, materials will be provided, and you will return home with one fantastic keyring.
Fluid ExerciseMotionClass 2 10amNovember,to11:30pm - Free Join Kerry-Anne for a mind and body exercise class similar to Pilates and Yoga, but unlike them too. The exercise is performed seated in a chair and incorporates grounding, how to use your core, whilst moving and stretching with flowing motions.
Old Library History Tour 8 October, 3 to 4pm - Free Join local resident and blogger Hugh Neal for a History Tour of the old library. Find out about the significance of the building to the local area, and the characters involved in making and running the old library and museum. Meet in The Bookstore.
What’s on at Blackfen Community Library 7-9 Blackfen Road, Sidcup DA15 9LU library.orgwww.blackfencommunity - 020 8301 1433 Events should be booked in advance online.
Plant Doctor 6 October, 5pm to 8pm. Free Do you have a houseplant that’s looking a bit sad? Are pests decimating your cabbage crop and need some advice? Wondering what planting and garden work is best to do in the autumn? Then drop-in to see The Exchange’s Head Gardener Louis in The Garden Room with your plant and gardening related issues.
Come and see the incredible craft talent in our local community. There will be lots of different crafted items on offer, including cards, candles, gifts, textiles, and plants.
The Wasted Museum 9 to 20 November, 10am to 4pm - Free Come and visit the Wasted Museum – a collection of objects that have been discarded in and around Erith and rediscovered by local residents. This exhibition is a reimagining of the old Erith Museum that used to exist at the Old Library (The Exchange’s home), and presents an opportunity to explore the relationship between waste, people Erith and its position by the river.
Wasted Museum: Open Day 13 October, 11am to 3pm Free Later this quarter, we will be holding an exhibition of items found in Erith in unexpected places. Have you found something interesting in your garden? Or in your house during renovation? Bring it down to The Exchange and enter it into the ‘Wasted’ database to be part of the exhibition in November. This exhibition is a collaboration with artist duo YoHa. The Art of Life Drawing 19 to 30 October, 11am to 4pm - Free Come and see the incredible work produced by Thursday’s Life Drawing Group. The artwork will be available to see in the ‘North Room’ at The Exchange, and the artworks will be changed for the second week of the exhibition – a reason to come twice!
Free, adults only. A 12-week course to support mental health and wellbeing. Quiz Night 7pm to 9:30pm, Friday 23 September £5 per person. Teams of up to 8, refreshments available or bring your own. Couples Evening 7:45pm to 9:30pm, Friday 7 October - Free 18+. An evening to spend time with your partner and to reflect on your relationship.
Town Square at The Exchange Thursdays 11am to 7pm, Saturdays 11am to 2pm. Free See markets, live music, performances, gatherings and more. This is space people can come to meet others, keep warm, and do things with the family, without needing to spend money.
28 All children aged 1-9 are eligible for a polio vaccine. The NHS will contact you to book an appointment for either a booster or catch up dose. For more information go selondonics.org/polio-vaccinationto: Is your againstprotectedchildpolio?
29 advertisements www.bexley.gov.uk Council news via email newsletters at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates Register to vote at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Useful Council numbers Automated payments – 020 3045 5200 Adoption and Fostering - 0800 783 7699 Bexley Local Offer - Special Educational Needs and Disability Support for 0-25 year olds - 020 3045 5677 Bexley Magazine - 020 8303 7777 and ask for Communications Births, deaths and marriages - 03000 415252 Councilregisterofficebexley@kent.gov.ukTax&HousingBenefits– 0345 302 2317 Emergency Out of Hours Service - 020 8303 7777 / 020 8303 7171 Home Library Service – 020 3045 4565 Housing advice - 020 3045 3400 Temporary Accommodation – 020 3045 3155/ 020 3045 3156 Parking Services - 020 3045 3000 Adults Social Services - Residential care – 020 3045 5159 How do I? Contact the police when it is not an emergency on 101 or 0300 123 1212 Report a gas leak - 0800 111 999 Get health advice and reassurance -111 www.111.nhs.uk Report a leak or burst pipe to Thames Water - 0800 714 614 (24 hour leakline) or #tweetaleak to @thameswater Other useful contacts Domestic Violence – 0808 2000 247 Job centre plus – 0345 604 3719 Resources Plus - 020 3045 3800 Citizens Advice Bexley – 0808 2505 709 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm) Age UK information and advice – 0800 678 1174 For other enquires call 0800 169 8787 Bexley Voluntary Service Council – 01322 524682 Bexley Foodbank - 07932 431350 For all other Council services please call our automated switchboard on 020 8303 7777 to request the department you require 100 + services online Seven days a week + 24 hours a day l Apply - Pay – Find - Report Worried about a child? Call 020 8303 7777 and ask for Safeguarding Children’s Services. In an emergency always call 999.
30 local organisations To add your organisation to this list, or to update your contact details please e-mail communications@bexley.gov.uk or telephone 020 8303 7777 and ask for Communications Academy Photographic Group 07976 Academy760488-United Judo Bexleyheath 07833Activewww.unitedjudo.comHorizonsYouth477651/0208310 5481 Adult Community Art Lessons 07790Bexley07880Bexley01322Bexleysteventhomas.crawley@openreach.co.ukBexley01322Bexley0208Bexleysecretary@bexleycivicsociety.org.ukBexley020Bexley020Bexleycoordinator@bexley.cats.org.uk07880Bexley020Bexley01322Bexley07504Bexley020Bexley0771Bexleywww.bexleyac.org.uk01322Bexley020BexleyBexley020Bexley07946CommunityBexley020Bexley01322Bexley020andBelvedere07572Bexley01322Belvedere0208Belvedere01322Belvederedavidleeds452@btinternet.comPoolBarnehurst0771Barnehurst0345Advocacy0775610701322Avante01322Assyriancharities-78www.bexleych.wix.com/bexley-AssociationBexleyAlzheimer’sErithSidcupBexleyheathWellingAirAge07931www.sandiecamilleri.wixsite.com/artlab@CleevePark824110UKBexley-02083000883TrainingCorps(Youth)Sqdn-02083037379Sqdn-01322559056Sqdn-02083099926Sqdn-01322340749SocietyBranch-01322524950/559308ofBexleyCharities‘78CommunityofKent335479CommunitySupport:Homecare344980(Bexleyheath)ArmyCadetForce775294forAll3101812YogaClub2226261&IvorThomasLeagueArtGroup556876Over50sKeepFit3115550SocialBowlsClub435149BoroughMummies473272CommunityForumCentre83115550AccessibleTransportScheme311333ActiveRetirementClub83039675AfricanCaribbeanAssociation(BACCA)497731ArchaeologicalGroup83001752ArtGroup01322430681ArtsTrust83038177AthleticsClub342485/info@bexleyac.org.ukBardsStoryTellers2226261visuallyimpairedbowlsclub83048409BookBindingGroup610682BoroughPensionersForum527097Boys&GirlsHall88585123CatsProtection471333CentrefortheUnemployed83013187ChurchesHousingAssoc.Ltd38665999CivicSocietyCoinClub3030510CommunityLibraryArtClub836303/07446480619CricketClubCroquetClub287581/01322525975&DistrictCatsProtection471333&SidcupLionsClub279683 Bexley Deaf Centre 01322 351122 Bexley Federation of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners (BFALG) 07470 468594 Bexley Football Club 020 8858 5123 Bexley Natural Environment Forum 01322 521 259 Bexley Down’s Syndrome 01322Bridge020TheBramptonwww.boxtherapy.onlineBoxBird01322Bexrose01322InstituteBexleyheathwww.facebook.com/BexleyGamingClub(Pokémon/Yu-Gi-Oh!)Bexleyheath020Bexleyheathzenfolio.comhttps://bexleyheathphotographicsociety.BexleyheathHockeyBexleyheath01322BowlsBexleyheathforBexleyheath01322BexleyBexley020EducationalBexley07711Bexley01322BexleyBexley020Bexley020Bexley01322Bexley01322Bexley0800Bexley01322Bexleywww.bexleyrugby.co.ukBexleybexleyrotaryclub@gmail.comBexleywww.BexleyPhotographyChatter.co.ukChatterBexleyselkent01@hotmail.comBexley020Bexley020Bexleywww.bexleymoorings.co.ukBexley020Bexley020Bexley01689Bexley07957Bexley020BexleyHurstBexleysecretary@bexleyhistoricalsociety.org.ukBexleyHallBexleywww.bexleydownssyndrome.co.ukGroupHeritageTrustPlace-01322526574HistoricalSocietyLadiesKeepFitClubCommunityCentre&LewishamSeaCadets83049448MastersSwimmingClub447432MarquetryGroup851702Mencap83036336MESupportGroup83038553MooringsProjectMusicSociety83062152PainGroup82986287ParkBowlsClubPhotographyCommunityRotaryClubRugbyFootballClub-07909555521SNAP359475StopSmokingService7832514TalkingNewspaper445293TinnitusSupportGroup525115Twofold83037777/02030454920TurkishElderlyDayCentre83066736Voice-07512409936VolunteerCentre524682UkuleleGroup704033WEA(Workers’Association)83001845Women’sAid-02083011536VillageWomen’sInstitute554544&DistrictClubDisabled-02083034826&BarnehurstClub526932or07444475417&BelvedereClub07720412547PhotographicSocietyMorningTownswomensGuild83104537GamingClub&CrayfordWatersideWomen’s449066GardeningSociety449066College-02083006004TherapyArtGroup-02083039132Boys’Brigade&GirlsAssoc83049669ClubatVCDCrayford446625/07955470762 Bridge Mental Health 020 8298 9677 Bridging the Gap for Autism 020 8300 5444 / 07557 278 215 British Army Association 01322 449175 British Polio Fellowship (North West Kent Branch) 020 8304 1694 Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) 01727 867201 Cancer Research UK - local fund raising 020 8302 Chislehurst3964&Sidcup Ballet Club Care07746719258MattersUK Ltd - 01322 522440 Carers’ Support Bexley 020 8302 Chislehurst8011&Sidcup Ballet Club 07746 719258 The Compassionate Friends Child Bereavement Friendswww.footscraymeadows.orgFriendsFriendsFeelwww.evergreencarebexley.orgEvergreen01322ErithErith01322Erithwww.erithmrs.ukmodelshops.co.ukErith07576ErithSquadsErithedsc@edsc.org.ukErith01322Erithconservationvolunteerswww.facebook.com/eastwickhamVolunteersEast07922AllotmentEast020atDimbleby07775Diabetes01474Darent020Danson07751068274DansonCruse01322Crossroadswww.crossness.org.ukThewww.crescenttennisclub.co.ukCrescent01322Crayford01322HistoricalCrayford01322Crayford01322Crayford020CrayfordErithCraywww.countygatelodge-freemasons.co.ukCounty020Contact020Connexionswww.tcf.org.ukSupportProspects30455555theElderly83034723GateLodgeCottageBowlsClub-07971053484&DistrictMen’sProbusClub83042802CameraClub438808JudoClub631108ManorHouseSociety551279Women’sInstitute557229LawnTennisClub(Sidcup)CrossnessEnginesTrustCareSouthEastLondon336086BereavmentCare-02083045245ParkBowlsClubYouthTrust83036052CrayNationalTrustAssociation705402UKBexleySupportGroup305110MacmillianCancerSupportGuysQueenMary’shospital71880771WickhamandWellingandGardenSociety255133WickhamOpenSpaceConservation&BelvedereLocalHistorySociety337893/01322332717&DistrictSwimmingClub&DistrictSynchronisedSwimmingsynchro@edsc.org.uk&ThamesmeadCAPDebtCentre315994ModelRailwaySocietyNemesisMartialArtsGym335076VeteransClubLtd-01322342137VeteransClubSingers553078CareBexleyGoodCo-Operative-07908034081ofDansonPark-07596657763ofFootsCrayMeadowsoftheRedHouse01322865186 Friends of the 07900Red01322The07780Remap,01322Re-Instate020Rainbows,020TheParkinson’s020OldBarnehurstWednesdayNorth07947Northwww.nwkfhs.org.ukNorth07765Norfolk020OccupationalNFOPwww.eaglesandsidcup.comBadmintonNew020MultipleMND020MINDMeridianStWedThe01322Mayplace07305020Manor020Macular020EmployeesLondonLesnesAbbeyConservationVolunteerswww.facebook.com/Lesnes07741Lamorbey020HistoryLamorbeywww.lamorbeyparkarchers.clubLamorbey020Lamorbey020Kingfisher07951Jlinks020BexleyIrish020Inspire07824Insight07710Imago020Hurst07903Holy01322Hillwww.russellparkbowls.co.uk/helio-mirrorHelio020Healthwatch020NorthHeadway01322Haven01322GeddesFamilywww.facebook.com/FriendsoftheShuttleShuttleAction-02083106570PlaceWidowsGroup521754-Gay&LesbianSocialGroup287356/07804808581SouthEastLondon/WestKent83197148Bexley83049344MirrorBowlsClubParkAutisticTrust334318TrinityLamorbeySocialClub565502Horticultural&GardenSociety83062202847812www.imago.communityBexley999581CommunityTrust30455100CommunityServicesinGreenwich,&Lewisham88544466Physiotherapy025208BowlsClub83028830Over50’sClub83046055ParkArchers&SidcupLocalSociety83020059ParkCricketClub193133AbbeyWoodsConservationVolunteersBoroughofBexleyRetiredAssoc83005526/02083030606SocietyBexleySupportGroup88568954HouseBowlsClub83103648093876Art&CraftsGroup529972MeetingPlace9.30am-1.30pmJohnFisherChurchHallCanoeClub-07801549601InBexley83035816Association-01322228169SclerosisSociety83067050Sidcup/Eagles/BexleyClub(NationalFederationofPensioners)82987074Women’sClub(Sidcup)428569WestKentFamilyHistorySocietyKentPhilatelicSociety859016KentScottishAssociation 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Women’s020WellingWellingWelling01322Volunteers020VictimVeterans07859University020AbbeyUniversity01322United020Trefoil07944Thamesmead020Thames020Sporting020The020TrustHomeSunrise020St0844St07951StillbirthSSAFASpeakability0845TheSmythSmileyArk01322Signpost01322SidcupRecreationSidcup020Sidcup020Sidcup01689SidcupSidcup020ThirdSidcup01634Sidcup020ScottishSidcup020Sidcup07411Sidcupwww.sidcupchessclub.org.ukSidcupSidcupSidcup020ShopmobilitySamaritansStErithSidcupStmcwhitford@gmail.comSerenade767105SingersJohnAmbulance-08447704800-07974219471MichaelsLadiesClubWelling0208306114602083011010Scheme83015237ArtClub-02083025390BowlsClub-07977145039ChessClubCricketClub177680DebtAdvice82698621&DistrictCaledonianAssociationCountryDancing88564522&DistrictMotorCycleClub201268andDistrictUniversityoftheAge88502046JazzClub01322442442JazzRecordClub835805Literary&ScientificSociety83008647MusicalProductions83049150/02083001392PentanqueClub-basedatSidcupClub07825934694SymphonyOrchestra552710Community-Drug&AlcoholTeam357940KidsClub07956263531LodgeCarehome(Sidcup)03333218599ScoutAssociation0946368or08453001818Sidcup08088089572-theArmedForcesCharity02086390495&NeonatalDeath454682JohnAmbulanceCrayfordSidcup7704800Mary’s(Welling)Players83038933/07866259302FrognalHouseResidentalCare(Sidcup)02083022600Thamesmead38284900LinkThamesmead38284950ClubThamesmead38284920InnovationCentre83201000RunningClub282611Guild-Invicta(Welling)83048409/01689811116NationsAssoc(Bexley)335479oftheThirdAgeWood&Thamesmead83114797oftheThirdAgeBexley882385ClubofBexley-02083042815Support(Bexley)72771433/02086984583InformationService(VIS)335479ArtGroup-07905437840BeingLink-07895143939U3A-UniversityoftheThirdAge83115295or07710324717AidHelpline-02083011536
31 advertisements Appliance Services Ltd 07766 607251 020 8301 1618 / 020 8303 6950 WashingRepairs/Sales/Servicemachines,Dishwashers, Cookers, Ovens, Tumble Dryers, Storage Heaters etc Fast Friendly Service ParkinsonsFormerlyofLionRoad,Bexleyheath New Befriending Café opening 10 October 2022 10.30 to 12.30 every Monday at the Belvedere Community Centre, Mitchell Close DA17 6AA z For people with dementia/memory loss and their family members/Carers z Lots of activities, plus refreshments z Formal diagnosis not required Please contact Sasha Barnes at: sasha.barnes@ageukbexley.org.uk or call 020 8300 0883 for more information The Rosemary Café A “User-Led” Charitable Organisation working in partnership with Location: 50 High Street, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 6EH Tel: 020 8300 6038 Welcome to Inspire’s Living Solutions & Mobility Shop We have a wide range of equipment and trained advisors to assist customers with appropriate equipment selection for promoting independence & improving the quality of their lives. Bexley’s Concessionary Travel Schemes’ Team for the Blue Badge and Freedom Pass Service has now moved to here from our Slade Green offices.
News advertisements Plan for the future you deserve in your retirement If you are over 55 and own your own property, you could be eligible for Equity Release. ✓ Repay your existing mortgage ✓ Home improvements ✓ Pay for care in the home ✓ Holiday of a lifetime ✓ Helping the family No monthly repayments Contact your local Independent Adviser on � 020 3488 3387/07403 758461 C8:] info@albanyfinance.co.uk G www.albanyfinance.co.uk This is Equity Release To understand the features and risks please ask for a no obligation personalised illustration. Our typical advice fee would be £1495 but until 31 January 2023 our advice fee will be £495. Equity Release may impact your entitlement to means-tested benefits and the inheritance you may leave. Albany Finance is an appointed representative of New Leaf Distribution Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Number 460421. Registered Address: Princess Caroline House 1 High Street 1st Floor Southend on Sea SSl lJE. BexleywithFoster 020 3045 www.bexley.gov.uk/fostering4400 Give a child a better future
