Bexley Magazine Winter 2022

Autumn is here and winter not far behind. It is a time for family and celebration, but not without its challenges.

We always need to take more care of ourselves in the wintry weather. Last month it was my turn to have my winter jabs, for both Covid and flu. They were given at the same appointment, which was convenient. If you are eligible, please take up the offer. Keeping us all well also helps to reduce pressure on the NHS.

There is a feature inside on the cost of living and other tips on saving food waste and keeping well. Of course, there is also our usual list of helpful local organisations.

Shopping is another feature at this time of year, so please support our local stores and businesses when you can. We have some great shops across the borough, as you will see. We need to use them, or we may lose them.

The Magazine also introduces our new plan: ‘Making Bexley Even Better’. There is also a chance to win a £50 Morley’s voucher if you enter our competition and tell us what you love about your neighbourhood.

I wish you all a peaceful and joyous Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year.

If you would like to know more about the services the Council provides, or would like either a translation of this document or the information in a different format, please call our Customer Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777, quoting reference: 602063/11.22

London Borough of Bexley, Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT

Phone: 020 8303 7777

• Website: www.bexley.gov.uk

• Email: communications@bexley.gov.uk

Distributed free of charge to every property 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.

Making Bexley Even Better

Our Bexley Plan 2022-2026

We’re proud to launch our new Bexley Plan to make Bexley even better.

The plan presents the outcomes we want to see for our residents, our borough and our Council.

We are ambitious for Bexley, we want to keep what’s good about the borough, as well as securing investment so that current and future generations continue to live in a place that is thriving.

Residents know that Bexley is a great place to live, work and study. It’s the best of both worlds: close to the centre of London but still a green, safe and friendly place to be.

Bexley is a place of friendly and loved neighbourhoods. Tell us what you love about your neighbourhood and you could win a £50 Morley’s Bexleyheath gift voucher. Just tag #MakingBexleyEvenBetter in your posts on Twitter or reply to our invitation on our LBofBexley Facebook page.

We hope you are proud to be a part of this vision Find out more at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-plan

Life peerage and Leader of the Year accolade

In October, Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE was nominated to sit as a peer in the House of Lords. She has served on the Council since 1998 and as Leader of the Council since May 2008. She has led her party to four successive election victories and is the longest-serving Council Leader in London.

She will be known as ‘Councillor, Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE’ and will continue to serve as a local Councillor and Leader of the Council.

Councillor O’Neill was also awarded the accolade of Council

Leader of the Year at this year’s national Councillor Awards in October.

The award was made because of her strong stewardship of the Council over the past 14 years, her work on regional and national organisations, and her role in managing the London-wide response to Covid.

Doorstep textile recycling

We have partnered with clothing reuse charity TRAID, to offer a free home collection scheme, which you can use to donate clothes, shoes, or accessories you no longer wear.

This service is open to all Bexley households, including people living in flats, and allows you to book a collection on a day that suits you.

Many residents will have clothes they no longer wear yet are still in a good enough condition to be passed on to someone else. Donating clothing is a practical way to support a more sustainable way of living.

The service is suitable for residents who have a lot of clothes to donate at one time. You can book a collection for a minimum of 1 large bag or 3 small bags of clothing,

but TRAID encourage residents to donate more than the minimum amount, as this helps the charity to deliver a more efficient service.

As part of your main clothing donation, you can also include a small bag of broken small/mediumsized electrical items for recycling, such as kettles and toasters.

You can book a free collection by: � completing the online booking form www.bexley.gov.uk/textiles � calling 020 8733 2595

Climate change statement

The climate crisis is one of the most significant issues to face our society, our environment, and the planet.

We have seen a rapid global rise in greenhouse gas emissions over the last 100 years and a trend towards increasing global average temperatures over the last century.

The Council has agreed its Climate Change Statement and Action Plan 2022-26, which aims to capture Bexley’s commitment

Small changes we make now can make a big difference in reducing our carbon footprint.

Using less energy is not only better for the environment but can also save us money.

You can read the Climate Change Statement and Action Plan on our website at www.bexley.gov.uk/climatechange Friends

THAMESMEAD LIBRARY

UPDATEThe new Thamesmead Library inside the Nest building is really taking shape. These latest photos show the almost complete children’s library and main library space.

The furniture installation will be next, followed by the process to move into this fantastic space.

Look out for updates on the Library Service’s website.

SIDCUP LIBRARY AND CINEMA UPDATE

As the Magazine went to print, Sidcup Library was in the process of moving to its new home in the High Street.

Work on the new cinema that will be managed by the Really

Really Local Group creates and restores cultural, retail, and entertainment infrastructure through the regeneration and renewal of the UK’s high streets. Each of their venues is uniquely designed to reflect local needs and act as a community hub; with cinema at the heart. This will be the fifth venue for the company. They currently own and operate Catford Mews, Ealing Project, Reading Biscuit Factory and Peckham Levels.

There is a real sense of excitement in Sidcup with the cinema, library, café and rentable spaces all coming on stream. Within the cinema, Really Local Group will be providing three screens with comfortable seating and state-of-the-art screen and sound technology. The venue will be open throughout the day and evening and will showcase a range of films for all audiences.

Local Group continues at pace. Here the Really Local Group tell us a bit about themselves and their exciting plans for the new centre.

The Council is in the process of disposing of the old Sidcup Library site at Hadlow Road to BexleyCo, the Council’s arms length development company. The building was well used for many years but now has a failing heating system and damaged roof so it has been decommissioned.

BexleyCo have submitted a planning application which has been subject to all the usual consultation.

Keep an eye on the news pages on our website for information on when the new library and cinema will open and the facilities available.

“We are very excited to be opening our new Sidcup venue. Our cinema content will range from the latest film releases, to familyfriendly titles, indie films, live event cinema, and everything in-between. We look forward to welcoming the local Sidcup residents to come and try our coffee, use our work-from-home space, enjoy a film on the big screen and connect with other local residents.”

You can follow the Really Local Group on Instagram @reallylocalgrp to keep up-to-date.

PRESTON BENSON Really Local Group Founder

Window of opportunities

Come and meet us at our Open Evening on Wednesday 7 December from 4pm to 7pm at the Learning & Enterprise College Bexley (LECB)!

Whether you already know what you want to study or are just searching for some inspiration, our Open Evening is the perfect way to find out more about the College, meet our staff and view our range of courses and facilities. You could even try one of our taster sessions!

We provide a range of nationally accredited courses that could help you gain employment, learn new skills and improve your CV. Accredited courses at the LECB include English, Maths and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), which are often free or subsidised, depending on individual circumstances.

Alongside our accredited courses, we also have our special interest courses starting in January, which include Ballroom Dancing, Creative Glass Making, Line Dancing, Pilates, Pottery, Zumba and many more!

Experience what it’s like to study at LECB and find out more about the support and services we offer.

Scan the QR code above to book one of your taster sessions!

Phone: 020 3045 5176

Email: enquiries@lecb.ac.uk

Success in FSB Awards

The Council and the Bexleyheath BID were among the winners at the inaugural All-England FSB Local Government Awards.

They were recognised in the ‘Future Ready’ category for Greater London for a high street recovery strategy and delivery plan that included monthly night markets in Bexleyheath town centre.

“We believe that our town centres and our small businesses are a vital part of the local community, so we are very proud to receive this recognition from an organisation representing small businesses”.

Councillor Cafer Munur, Cabinet Member for Growth

Bank hub to open in Welling

Welling is set to gain a new style banking hub after Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE successfully made the town’s case to the Access to Cash Action Group and Link, the ATM network.

Around 26 bank hubs have so far opened across the UK to improve people’s access to cash, following the loss of bank branches from local high streets.

The hubs operate in a similar way to bank branches, but their services are shared. Banks provide staff on rotation, with trained specialists from individual banks available on different days.

“I’m delighted that Welling will benefit from one of the first of the new banking hubs after we made the case to the team rolling out the scheme. Branches in the town have unfortunately closed and a hub serving all the banks will make a big difference to local people.”

Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE

Winter jabs

Boost your immunity against Covid and flu

Everyone in England aged 50 or over can book their free Covid booster via the NHS national booking service.

You can also get your Covid vaccine at some pharmacies in Bexley.

If you are eligible for a flu jab, you can contact your GP to book this, or you can book online to get it from a pharmacy.

Find out if you are eligible to get both vaccines herewww.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

Benefits calculators

If the rising cost of living is a cause of concern, you can use an independent, free and anonymous benefit calculator to check what you could be entitled to.

A calculator will give you an estimate of: � the benefits you could get � how much your benefit payments could be � how your benefits will be affected if you start work or increase your hours � how your benefits will be affected if your circumstances change - for example, if you have a child or move in with your partner

Check them out using these links.

https://www.betteroffcalculator. co.uk/ https://www.entitledto.co.uk/ https://benefits-calculator. turn2us.org.uk/

Free access to the internet is available at all Council libraries in Bexley.

Carers urged to get their vaccines

Anyone aged 16 and over who receives carer’s allowance, or who is the main carer of an elderly or disabled person who is at increased risk from flu or Covid, is eligible to receive both vaccines free of charge. This includes people who provide unpaid care.

Carers Corner

Two new groups

Carers Support are offering new groups for Carers and their cared for with dementia/memory loss.

Both these groups are at Wolsley House, Wolsley Close, Crayford DA1 4BE - There’s no need to book

Singing for the Brain runs every Monday afternoon from 2pm to 3.30pm

A Memory Support Group runs every Thursday morning from 11am to 1pm

Polio vaccinations

Protect your child from polio

Do drop in!

A new drop-in group for carers, former carers and people with care needs meets on the second and fourth Fridays of the month from 11am to 1pm. Refreshments available.

Come along and find out information about services that can help you in your caring role, or just talk to someone.

Children aged 1 – 9 are being offered a dose of the polio vaccine

Find your nearest polio clinic at www.bexley.gov.uk/londonpolio-booster

If you live in Bexley and your child is aged 1 to 9 years and has not yet had their Polio vaccine, you can either contact your GP or book the polio booster vaccine free of charge at either of the followingBelvedere Pharmacy, 11 Picardy Street, Belvedere DA17 5QQ

Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, Saturday, 10am to 2pm

Walk-in / call 020 8311 4087

Aspire Pharmacy, 23 High Street, Sidcup DA14 6EQ

Monday to Saturday, 8.30am to 7pm, Sunday, 11am to 4pm.

Walk-in or call 020 8300 2008

Just show up or contact Jo for further information by emailing joanne@carerssupport.org

PENSION CREDIT

People of State Pension age may be entitled to Pension Credit even though they may have modest savings, a retirement income or own their own home.

An award of Pension Credit can provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, Council Tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over a free TV licence.

More information: https:// pensionawarenessday.com/

Be scam AWARE

Scams can affect anyone and happen online or in person.

How can I spot scams?

� Someone you do not know contacts you unexpectedly

� You are being urged to respond quickly, so you do not get time to think

� You’ve been asked to pay for something urgently

What can you do?

� Stop and take a minute before parting with your money or information

� Challenge the caller. It is ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you

� Never give money or personal details, like passwords or bank details, to anyone you do not know

� Pay by debit or credit card. This gives you extra protection if things go wrong

� Report suspicious text messages for free by forwarding them to 7726. If you forward a text to 7726, your provider can investigate the origin of the text and arrange to block or ban the sender, if it’s found to be malicious.

If you think you have been scammed:

� Contact your bank immediately and report atwww.actionfraud.police.uk

� Get advice from the Citizens Advice consumer helpline0808 223 1133

� Call Scams Action on 0808 250 5050

Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams at www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk

STOP HATE . START HERE

A new partnership that aims to help residents feel safer in Bexley launched during Hate Crime Awareness Week in October.

Stop Hate UK is an independent, confidential, and accessible reporting and support system for victims and witnesses of hate crime which provides 24-hour support 7 days a week.

The Council has commissioned the Stop Hate UK Helpline to help residents. Anyone experiencing any form of hate, discrimination or abuse is encouraged to come forward for help and support.

Hate crime is not limited to verbal or physical abuse. It can also

involve vandalism, criminal damage, graffiti or arson, cyberbullying, offensive communications, threats of attack or financial exploitation. Please report hate crime when you see it.

There are several ways you can contact Stop Hate UK if you experience hate in Bexley:

� phone 08001381625

� text relay 18001011 32935100

� email talk@stophateuk.org

� online report www.stophateuk. org/report-hate-crime

� Post PO Box 851, Leeds LS1 9QS

Help keep Bexley safe and say NO to hate crime today.

Keeping Christmas safe

As we head towards Christmas, the Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association (BBNWA) would like to remind residents of some security arrangements you can put in place to keep your property safe over the festive season.

Christmas is a time for presents, which can come in attractive packaging. Please remember to be mindful when disposing of your wrapping and packaging.

Leaving items such as an empty TV or computer box outside for collection can tell criminals what is inside your house. Burglars could see newly disposed packaging as an invitation. Whenever possible it is safer to break up the packaging and place it into the relevant recycling bins, out of sight.

Find out more www.bexleywatch.org.uk

LIVING THIS Help with the

Rising fuel prices and inflation are a concern for many residents and we hope the information on these pages will help

ENERGY ADVICE

Central Library, Bexleyheath hosts an Energy Advice Café every Monday between 10am and 3pm, with tea and coffee.

The café is run by South East London Community Energy (SELCE), who offer independent advice on reducing your bills and paying less for your electricity and gas.

Home visits can be arranged to give extra support should you need it.

Their advisors can contact energy companies on your behalf and give guidance on obtaining extra financial help, and how to apply for discounts and grants.

WARMER HOMES SCHEME

Grants of between £5,000 and £25,000 are available to eligible low-income homeowners and private tenants, depending on your existing energy efficiency rating, your tenure and your current fuel type. They can help provide:

l heat pumps

l insulation for walls, lofts and floors

l heating system improvements or repairs

l draughtproofing

l solar energy installations

The Warmer Home Scheme is open until 31 March 2023 and homeowners and tenants will not

If you prefer, you can contact SELCE directly:

l telephone 020 4566 5764

l email advice@selce.org.uk

l website www.selce.org.uk/ warm-homes-for-less

Simple ideas to reduce your energy costs

l “Heat the human, not the home” by investing in warmer clothes, like a onesy or hooded blanket

l Provided no one in your home is elderly or in poor health, try turning down your thermostat from 20C to 19C. This could reduce your heating bill by 10%

have to pay anything towards the work.

Applicants need to provide information showing they are eligible and details about the property. If the application is successful, a survey will be needed to work out which improvements are most suitable.

The Mayor of London secured £40.2m of Sustainable Warmth funding from the government for the scheme.

FIND OUT MORE

www.london.gov.uk/ warmerhomes

Warmer Homes Helpline: 0800 029 3576

Email: enquiries@ warmerhomeslondon.com

l Winter-proof your home –using draft excluders made from rolled up towels or tights filled with old clothes.

l Change how you do chores like the laundry, by washing at 30C rather than 40C or higher - and washing full loads. Spin clothes at the highest speed and use a clothes horse or heated airer instead of your tumble drier.

l Turn off heating in unused rooms

l Avoid leaving devices on standby, unplug gadgets and turn lights off

l Take showers instead of baths and install a waterefficient shower head.

WINTER cost of

HOW TO STAY WELL IN WINTER

Wintry weather can make some health problems worse, especially if you are 65 or older, or if you have a long-term health condition.

Visit https://www. nhs.uk/live-well/seasonalhealth/keep-warm-keepwell/ for more details

If you are older or vulnerable, please follow this advice from the NHS -

l Get advice if you feel unwell, from a pharmacy, your GP or calling NHS 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk

l Get your winter vaccines

l Keep your home warm

l Check if you are eligible for help with heating costs

If you are younger and healthier, please remember to look in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives to make sure they are safe and well, warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines.

Second cost-of-living payments

Households receiving benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will receive the second part of the £650 cost-of-living payment between 8 and 23 November.

This second payment will automatically be paid into the bank accounts of those who receive a qualifying benefit, meaning they will not need to do anything to receive the money.

People who are not receiving a qualifying DWP benefit may still be eligible for the £324 payment. HM Revenue and Customs are also making payments to those who receive tax credits and no other eligible benefits.

Recipients do not need to contact the government or apply for the payment at any stage.

Cost of Living support: https://helpforhouseholds. campaign.gov.uk/

Energy Bill Relief Scheme Money Navigator Tool

The government has introduced the Energy Price Guarantee for households and the Energy Bill Relief Scheme (EBSS) to help with rising energy costs.

Electricity suppliers are delivering the EBSS to households automatically over six months from October. Consumers do not need to apply for the discount and do not need to register or share any details with anyone.

The government is urging

consumers to stay alert for potential scams and report them.

If you receive a message that asks for your bank details or to click on a link, please report it promptly. If you can, send a screenshot of the message to report@ phishing.gov.uk and to energy.bills.rebate@beis.gov.uk

People in financial difficulty can access money and debt guidance for free.

The Money Navigator Tool from Money Helper UK can provide guidance based upon individual circumstances and help find support in their area. There is information on: what issues individuals need to deal with first ways of staying on top of bills how to find extra support where to get extra help

www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en

LOOK AFTER your health

Beating the winter blues

The winter months can be difficult for many of us and our mental health. If the short, darker days are getting you down, here are 3 things you can do to help.

1 Staying active, connecting with friends or family, learning new skills, or offering your time to support others can help keep your mind healthy. The NHS offers general advice at www.nhs.uk/every-mindmatters/

2 The Bexley Crisis Café is a safe and friendly place for anyone over 18 to go and it provides access to mental health support and advice from professionals. https://mindinbexley.org.uk/ crisis-cafe

3 Young people can access confidential support via an online mental wellbeing community at www.kooth. com or at Papyrus at www.papyrus-uk.org

If you need to speak to someone about how you are feeling, the Oxleas Crisis Line 0800 330 8590 is a 24 hour telephone service for anyone living in Bexley.

You can also call the Samaritans on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org

Help spread the word about Healthy Start

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 and offering free vitamins.

You can qualify for the Healthy Start scheme if you are at least 10 weeks pregnant or have at least one child under 4 years.

You must also be receiving benefits, or have a family annual income of £16,190 or less, or be under 18 and pregnant.

You have to apply and will get a prepaid card, which is topped up with funds every four weeks.

Your card is accepted at supermarkets and you can buy: � Fresh, frozen or tinned fruit and vegetables

� Fresh, dried and tinned pulses

� Cow’s milk

� Infant formula milk

The Healthy Start Scheme provides:

� £4.25 each week of pregnancy from the 10th week

� £8.50 each week for children from birth to 1 year old

� £4.25 each week for children between 1 and 4 years old

� Free Healthy Start Vitamins from your Health Visitor

For more information on how to apply for Healthy Start visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk

Be food savvy this Christmas

Bexley celebrated Black History Month in October. It’s an annual celebration to commemorate the history, achievements and contributions of Black people in the UK.

The theme for this year was ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’. We can all achieve this by being allies and appreciating the diverse cultural and social values across the Black community, by listening to diverse voices and promoting the work of Black people.

As we start to prepare for the festive season, there are a few simple things we can all do to reduce our own carbon footprint.

Becoming food savvy is a great place to start!

In the UK we waste around 5 million Christmas puddings, 2 million turkeys, and 74 million mince pies each year.

Much of the extra food waste we accumulate at this time of year can be reused and recycled.

This Christmas you can save time and money by:

� planning your meals for the festive period and using the plan to write a shopping list to avoid overbuying

� Stay in control of shoppingset your budget before you get to the store and stick to it, this will help you keep your eye on the £s and stay in control of your budget

� Follow these actions not just at Christmas but every week until they become second nature and part of your weekly food routine. In a few weeks, you’ll be surprised how much food you’re saving from the bin and how many more £s you have in your pocket. � make the most of leftover food, by reusing it for another meal. For inspiration visit: www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

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 any unavoidable waste is placed in your food waste box.

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. Prepare for Christmas and order your box today.

www.bexley.gov.uk/foodboxes

The Council has joined 17 other local authorities across the country to pilot the Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES) for Social Care. The WRES aims to overcome inequality in the social work workforce, with a consistent and effective approach across both adult and children’s social care.

The Council’s Black, Asian, Minority Equality Workers Group hosted information sessions for staff and events to raise awareness of the month.

We are proud of our diverse community. Black History Month provides us with an opportunity to come together and celebrate the positive role of Black people in shaping our communities and to promote knowledge and understanding of Black History and culture in our borough.

CLLR SUE GOWER MBE Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing

Caring for our young people

Bexley’s annual Corporate Parenting Week took place in mid-October.

As Corporate Parents it is the collective responsibility of the Council and its partner agencies to provide support, care and protection for children who are in our care, as well as those young adults leaving our care.

The week is a chance for children in our care and young adults leaving our care to join staff, Councillors and partners to help raise awareness of what it means to be a Corporate Parent.

During the week there were a number of events for children, young people and staff. The week ended with the annual ‘You are fantastic’ awards event for children and young people.

Plans are already underway for next year’s Corporate Parenting Week. If you are a local business or service and you would like to get involved, please contact Participation Lead, Maddy Gardiner at maddy.gardiner@bexley.gov. uk or call 020 3045 5968.

Fostering an ambition

Adele Harmer fostered for Bexley for 10 years. During that time, she and her husband looked after young children under five.

Adele is also a mum of three and when their youngest started school she decided she wanted to do something to make a difference. After spotting an advert published by Bexley Fostering she gave us a call.

The family went on to foster children on a short and long-term basis. Adele also became a mentor to new Foster Carers.

Adele described the best bit of being a foster carer as “seeing the children leave to live the life that’s right for them”.

Following her successful Fostering career, where she linked in regularly with Bexley Social Workers, Adele decided to return to study and take on her Social Work degree. Having qualified, Adele is now in the Fostering Recruitment Team working with potential Foster Carers.

“Having been on the other side has given me an insight into what we need in a Foster Carer. I would say to anyone considering becoming a carer to give us a call.

“Get in touch and ask your questions. Don’t second guess, call us. We are here to help!”

Find out more at www.bexley.gov.uk/fostering

The Leader of the Council, Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE and the Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Nick O’Hare.

Winter Wellbeing in Bexley

The Bexley Wellbeing Partnership and your local NHS want you to stay well this winter. This special pull-out booklet contains useful information about the various services we offer. Please keep this booklet in a safe place so you can refer to it when you need it.

Meet #YourPrimaryCare

We want to introduce you to your primary care team in Bexley. Your primary care team includes GPs, practice nurses, local pharmacists and a host of other professionals in your community, all helping to provide better support and care to you.

As the first point of contact in the healthcare system, think of primary care as the ‘front door’ of the NHS. Each one of their roles play a crucial part in ensuring that everyone in Bexley gets the help and professional support they need and deserve.

A number of primary care roles exist within GP surgeries, if you call to book an appointment with your local surgery, you will have access to a full primary care team

Team

of fully trained and qualified health professionals all of whom will be happy to help you.

Primary care teams vary across GP services and roles you may come across include:

� Community Pharmacist

� Receptionist

� Practice Nurse

� General Practitioner (GP)

� Care Coordinator

� Social Prescribing Link Worker

� Physiotherapist

� Physician Associate

� Mental Health Practitioner

You can find out more about the roles that exist in primary care and just how they can help you get the help you need at: bit.ly/ yourprimarycareteam

PULL OUT & KEEP

Meet #YourCommunity Pharmacist

Mo Saleh, Clinical Community Pharmacist at Aspire Pharmacy, Sidcup, spoke to us about why he is proud to work in Bexley serving his local community

What made you want to work as a pharmacist?

I’ve been qualified for over 20 years and I’ve worked in different areas of pharmaceuticals. Being a Community Pharmacist is most enjoyable as it gives me that direct relationship with the community and puts me at the centre of being able to help people. I love what I do and what community pharmacists can deliver and offer the local community.

What conditions can people come to ask your advice about, rather than go to their GP?

General pharmacy questions vary – people can get treatments for coughs, colds, headlice, hayfever, pain relief, eye conditions and advice on skin treatments from their community pharmacist. At Aspire we can also diagnose and offer treatment for different infections and do diagnostic blood tests, which are able to detect conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol.

What if they have something more private, they would like your advice about?

We have two private consultation rooms at Aspire where people can come in and talk to us confidentially and privately. If you have any sexual-health related concerns, prostate concerns or worried about a potential urine infection, we can provide reassurance, advice and carry out monitoring, offering treatments where necessary. Other things that you can speak to us privately about

include emergency contraception services. This safe space is available at most pharmacies.

Does it save time for a patient to come and see you?

Yes of course. Visiting the pharmacist first can save you waiting potentially weeks for medical assistance at a GP appointment or waiting hours in a busy Urgent Care centre.

Pharmacies also offer the COVID and flu vaccinations, as well as the recent polio vaccinations for children.

What advice would you give people in Bexley over the winter about the best way to use their local pharmacy?

The best way to use the pharmacy is to understand the different services they can provide and maximise the use of the services. Speak to your local pharmacist in the first instance with any medical concern you have, and if it is beyond anything we can treat, we can refer you to the right place for treatment.

Get your winter vaccinations

or who are pregnant, and frontline health and social care workers.

Main symptoms of COVID-19:

� a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)

� a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)

disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick

� live with someone who is more likely to get infections (such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)

� are frontline health or social care workers

A nasal spray form of the vaccine, which is more suitable for children, is being offered to:

Winter Vaccination

Getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations are your best protection against both viruses this winter. Get your winter boosters to protect yourself and your loved ones against Covid and Flu.

Some people may be eligible for both the flu and the COVID-19 booster vaccines at the same appointment. If you are offered both vaccines, it is safe to have them at the same time.

COVID-19 vaccination:

The COVID-19 vaccination offers you the best protection from the virus. A booster is available this autumn/winter to people aged 50 years or over, those at higher risk

� a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

To find out more, book your vaccination, or if you have any questions, please speak to your GP, call 119, or visit bit.ly/ yourprimarycareteam

Flu vaccination:

Who can have the flu vaccine:

The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to people who:

� are 50 and over (including those who’ll be 50 by 31 March 2022)

� have certain health conditions

� are pregnant

� are in long-stay residential care

� receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or

� 2- and 3-year-olds

� all primary school children

� secondary school children in years 7, 8 and 9

� children aged six months to 17 years with long-term health conditions

For more info visit the NHS children’s flu page www.nhs.uk/ conditions/vaccinations/child-fluvaccine

For more information on the flu vaccine please visit: www.nhs. uk/conditions/vaccinations/fluinfluenza-vaccine/

You can also find the answers to any questions you might have about the flu vaccine here: www. selondonics.org/icb/your-health/ flu-vaccine/

Tips to staying well this winter:

� Look in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives, especially those living alone. Contact your council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1602 (8am to 7pm every day)

� Wash your hands with soap and water to protect against food poisoning, diarrhoea, flu and COVID-19

� Avoid coming to the hospital, GP practice or other services if you have diarrhoea and vomiting or any COVID-19 symptoms to protect others.

� Order your prescriptions in time for Christmas and New Year when surgeries will be closed.

� If you’re not registered with a GP, you can still arrange a vaccination.

� Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free to register. You do not need any proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS number. You can find a GP local to you at www. nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp

You can now see your GP in the evening and at weekends

It is now easier for you to get an appointment with a GP or other health professional through enhanced access. In addition to your GP surgery’s normal opening hours, you will also now be offered appointments in the morning, evenings and on Saturdays at your GP practice or at an NHS service nearby. This will either be a face to face, phone or video appointment.

To find out more, contact your GP surgery.

Early morning, evening and Saturday appointments are available at your GP practice or at an NHS service nearby

To book, contact your GP practice

The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services on your smartphone or tablet. To use it you must be aged 13 and over and registered with a GP surgery in England. The app helps you access a range of services:

� You can order repeat prescriptions and see your medical record.

� You can search for, book and cancel appointments at your GP surgery, and see details of your upcoming and past appointments

� You can get health advice –search trusted NHS

information and advice on hundreds of conditions and treatments

� You can get advice about coronavirus and your vaccination record

� You can view and share your COVID Pass for places in England that have chosen to use this service and for travel abroad.

It has been a tough time for our high streets. Businesses are only just recovering from Covid restrictions and are now facing the cost-of-living crisis, presenting them with higher costs and reduced spending by consumers.

Studies have found that every pound spent in a locally owned business is often re-circulated within the local economy at least three times, because the business owners and staff will spend more of their incomes locally. This not only benefits other local businesses, but also helps keep residents in work and boosts the local community.

Bexleyheath

Caron Linyard, Bexleyheath Business Improvement District said:

“Head to Bexleyheath, where you’ll find a great range of independent stores alongside big brands.

“From beauty products to fashion-forward clothing there’s something for everyone. We have everything from jewellery and accessories to toys, books and homeware - all with the local touch that makes shopping here so much fun.”

� Boots, HMV, M&S, TK Maxx, Morley’s, JD Sports, H&M, Primark and more

� Bexley Originals – locally created gifts from local pop-up sellers

Each of our town centres has its own unique character and offer, that we have tried to summarise in these pages. We have only been able to highlight some of the borough’s businesses, but it is an illustration of what we have locally. With many unexpected and unusual shops and businesses so close to home why go further afield?

� Groceries and essentials at ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Lidl, Wilko, Poundland

� Themed events throughout the year on the Broadway

� Great bus links and parking available

� Independent bars and restaurants together with national favourites

� Cinema, Bowling, Bingo, Gym, Library www.enjoybexleyheath.co.uk

Welling

Welling’s High Street is one of the longest in London. It stretches nearly a mile and includes more than 250 outlets. There is a huge variety of businesses, and you can buy everything from a bathroom suite and a snake to a school uniform and a cake.

� Tesco and Morrison superstores

� locksmiths, dry cleaners and florists, clothing shops

� hair & beauty, tattoo & piercing, jewellers

� computers, gadget & phone repair

� DIY, building and electrical supplies

� carpets, beds, furniture

� Jurassic World Reptiles

� Wide Shoes - established in 1954

There are also plenty of pubs, cafés, restaurants and takeaways catering for all tastes.

www.discoverwelling.co.uk/

We understand that for many people money is tight right now but, if you appreciate your local town centre, please consider spending more of your available cash there. It could be a case of use it or lose it!

Cabinet Member for Growth, Cllr Cafer Munur

Sidcup

Sidcup is known as the cultural capital of the borough, with two international performing arts and music colleges: Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performing Arts and Bird College Conservatoire of dance and musical theatre.

� Individual boutiques Kimmicass, Icicle, Designer Chic.

� Model Railway shop selling specialist items

� Gallery Finely Framed selling art and offering a framing service

Erith

Erith Town Centre has nearly half a mile of frontage on the River Thames and the longest publicly accessible pier in London. The Riverside Shopping Centre hosts one of only three Matalan clothing stores in South-East London. Pier Square is currently undergoing some fantastic public realm improvements.

� Large Morrisons with lots of time limited parking

� Independent traders, pharmacy, opticians, health and beauty, grocery shops, newsagents, post office

� Great food and drink offer

� Made in Erith - a shop window

� BBQ barn selling huge range of BBQs and associated products

� Calm Collective yoga studio

� Pubs, wine bars, restaurants and cafés

The town also hosts events throughout the year including the Sidcup Fringe, the Halloween Trail, the Easter and Christmas Extravaganzas https://sidcuppartners.co.uk/

Crayford

Crayford is home to several large stores alongside smaller independent shops.

� Vintage Lindy Lou Tea Rooms for afternoon tea and regular events

� Big brands include Nando’s, Taco Bell, Next, Currys, Sports Direct, Boots and Pets at Home

� Independent stores include Uncle Beef butchers, Angling Direct fishing tackle shop, Golf Wise Nationwide golf shop, The Boutique Crayford.

� Home to pubs such as The One Bell, Dukes Head, Crayford Arms, Bear and Ragged Staff plus the micro pub The Penny Farthing

The town is also home to Crayford Greyhound Racing Track and a Sainsbury Superstore with time limited free parking.

space that is filled with local products

� The Exchange – a community owned cultural and social organisation with an in-house café ‘The Bookstore’. Regular workshops, events and markets www.theexchangeerith.com/ www.welcometoerith.com/ eatdrink

Nuxley Village Northumberland Heath

Food and drink establishments in Nuxley Village include:

� Mr Man’s Fish and Chips

� Millers Pie and Mash

� Belvedere Tandoori

� Five pubs: The Standard, The Fox, The Village Inn, The Prince of Wales, The Eardley Arms

� Belvedere Social Club has weekly Bingo and regular live entertainment

The town has hairdressers, barbers, a florist, pharmacy, launderette, Coop, a Sainsbury’s and an International Supermarket.

Bexley Village

Blackfen

Blackfen has a number of unique independent businesses. The newly opened ‘Tonics!’ has caused quite a stir among scooterists, young and old.

Businesses include –

� longest-running Welling business J Ayre Bakery and recent addition Tom’s Butchers

� eateries with everything from Tacos to Vietnamese as well as traditional Pie and Mash.

� The Broken Drum - one of the earliest micropubs in the borough

� Tap Sidcup for live music from the comfort of a ‘pour-your-ownbeer’ booth

Northumberland Heath has some great pubs including The Royal Oak and The Duke.

Shops include -

� Crumbs Bakers

� Morgan’s Greengrocers

� Wheelies Bikes

� Post office

� GB Tattoos

� Northumberland Heath community library

There are also a number of cafés and takeaways.

Lower Belvedere

Lower Belvedere may be one of our smaller shopping areas in the borough, but it has so much going for it.

Bexley Village has a wide range of shops and services on offer including:

� Hair and beauty shops

� Specialised shops such as wedding shops and men’s dress hire

� Jewellers Pilkington’s specialises in top end and repairs

� Village Kids is a beautiful children’s wear shop

� Giftware shops

� Dry cleaner

� Post office

� Supermarkets

� Wood yard

� Estate agents

The train station is in the heart of the village. There are also good bus links and plenty of parking.

� Independent shops Oakhurst Travel, Food for Living and Daysies Florist. Blackfen Cards. The Enchanted Woodland offers a magical play space.

� Premier Autocentres and Robinson Jackson have been supportive of many recent community events

At the heart of Blackfen is the Community Library, providing activities for every age.

The train station in Belvedere is just one stop away from the Elizabeth Line in Abbey Wood, with its speedy connections to central London.

Abbey Wood Village

With its small village feel and where you will find Abbey Wood Elizabeth Line station and numerous businesses, including The Abbey Arms with award winning pizza and original green tiles.

www.abbeywoodvillage.co.uk

Bexleyheath Station / Pickford Lane

As well as the station you can find a wide range of independent retailers with a range of goods and services, including Grocery, Health and Beauty, Dry Cleaners, Takeaways and the William Camden public house.

things to do at Bexley’s Leisure Centres

Operated by Lex Leisure, Crook Log, Erith and Sidcup Leisure Centres are dedicated to making our community happier and healthier.

Look after your health and wellbeing

The Leisure Centres provide a wide range of health and fitness activities, with something to suit everyone. With fitness plans, state-of-theart facilities and your dedication, together we can focus on achieving your goals, no matter how large or small.

Holiday Club

Bexley’s Leisure Centres provide holiday camps for ages 5 to 14. Run by Koala Klub the programme provides opportunities to stay active and healthy through positive, engaging and interactive experiences, including physical and creative games, arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor sports plus lots more.

Job opportunities

Lex Leisure is looking to recruit enthusiastic individuals for all departments in their Centres. Benefits include free gym membership, employee discount portal, career progression and funded courses, such as National Pool Lifeguard Qualification and Swimming Instructor Courses alongside the Institute of Swimming recruitment academy. Contact your nearest centre to find out more.

Soft Play / Parties

Erith Leisure Centre has a newly refurbished soft play area which can host up to 40 children. Combined with party hosts, music and invitations, the centre makes for a perfect location for a memorable birthday party or children’s event. During the week the area is open for casual use.

GP Referral Programme

‘Steps to Health’ is Lex Leisure’s GP Referral Programme, which offers a safe, supervised, and enjoyable introduction to physical activity within a controlled environment. The scheme helps people with health problems and those who are not regularly active improve their quality of life, health and well-being, regardless of age, ability or experience. Speak to your GP to be referred.

Swimming lessons

Learning to swim is a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and learn a new life skill. The Leisure Centres are partnered with Swim England to teach its ‘Learn To Swim’ programme, so students can swim safely and confidently. The swimming lessons accommodate all ages and abilities. It is never too late to start!

Careers in social care

A chance to grow at Bexley

Hayley has worked for Bexley Adult Social Care since 2014 as a Senior Social Worker. Recently she has been working on the ‘One Bexley’ project.

One Bexley is a partnership of eight local charities commissioned by the Council’s Adult Social Care department to provide services to local residents. Some of these people may be experiencing difficult times in their lives and the partnership supports them to maintain good health and wellbeing.

Hayley says:

“I have always enjoyed working with adults, especially older people with mental health issues and hospital social work. My work on the One Bexley project has been something very different from my usual role. I strongly believe that One Bexley offers people personalised services and the chance for us to work in a preventative way.

“It has been great seeing how far the Trusted Partners involved in One Bexley have picked up their new roles. They are now providing a quality service for our residents on our behalf and I’m extremely proud of

the part that I have played in that process.

“I enjoyed it so much I decided to undertake the second part of the Practice Education Professional Standards (PEPS) qualification, which I passed this summer. I am now able to sign off final year social worker students as fit to practice for Bexley.

“Working for Adult Social Care in Bexley I have been able to take on a new role that felt out of my comfort zone at first, but gave me the confidence to know that I have transferrable skills. I have really enjoyed managing

Working together for children and families

Corné Van Staden is Bexley’s Peripatetic Head of the Referral and Assessment and Staying Together Teams.

It was a career chat at school that first got Corne interested in social work. She has been a social worker for 28 years.

Corné told us:

“Bexley provides excellent training and supervision with dedicated leaders, but above all, people who care not just about the children and families we support but also each other. We celebrate success together and hold each other to account even if we have to have more difficult conversations.

“Being part of a team of likeminded people, working towards the same goals and achieving good outcomes for the children and families are most certainly the best bits of this job. There are not many ‘worst bits’ I can think of. All the other difficult things I face as part of my job are made easier by the people around me.

“Social work is not for everyone. This job shows you the best and worst, but you are never alone. I have never looked back and am forever grateful to a fantastic teacher who saw a skill in me. I cannot think of any better job for me.”

Winter in Bexley

As that special time of year gets ever closer, people start to celebrate their favourite traditional festivities. The Bexley Local Studies team have been looking back over some of the wonderful Christmas and Winter photos from their photographic collection.

It’s Panto time!

Oh, no it isn’t. Oh, yes it is! An amateur dramatics group gets into the spirit of panto, including the obligatory pantomime horse. They are performing Babes in Wood at Bexley Hospital in 1960.

During the winter of 1895, The Great Freeze swept through the country. Rivers and lakes froze, including the River Thames. Danson Park Lake was no exception and was completely frozen over to the delight of local people, especially children. The Bexley Temperance Band gave a performance on the sixinch-thick ice wearing skates. A marquee was erected and hot coffee served. Proceeds went to Bexley Cottage Hospital in Upton Road, Bexleyheath.

Stuck for a present idea?

Don’t forget that if you are running out of ideas of what to buy someone for that extra Christmas present, then our fantastic range of local history books make the perfect stocking fillers.

The books cover all parts of the Borough, from Hall Place to Danson, Lesnes Abbey to the Hollies, Blendon to Lost Pubs, Bexleyheath to the Second World War and beyond. You can purchase these books online or from the six main Council-run libraries in the borough.

We also provide a print on demand service which you can use to purchase images from our historic photograph and print collection.

Contact Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre for details.

People are captured shopping for last minute gifts at the beloved Hide’s Store on Bexleyheath Broadway. The popular department store sold everything from clothes to toys, carpets, chinaware and cosmetics - it even had a delicatessen. But it was probably more well known for its very popular haberdashery section and lovely café on the first floor.

Their dedication knows no bounds. These brave members of the Bexleyheath and Welling Football Club cleared the snow-covered football pitch with just shovels, wheelbarrows and a lot of hard work.

Bexley Local Studies

and Archive Centre

For more information, email the Local Studies Centre at archives@bexley.gov.uk or follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, where you’ll find lots more features and photographs from bygone Bexley and the war years.

Call 020 8303 7777 facebook.com/BexleyArchives twitter.com/BexleyArchives Instagram- bexleyarchives

Council meetings

These meetings will be webcast and available at www.bexley.public-i.tv

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 2163 www.davidevennett.com Twitter: @davidevennett Facebook: fb.com/DavidAEvennett

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 www.louiefrench.org.uk

Any surgery requests should be emailed to louie.french. mp@parliament.uk including your name, full address and details of the issue you would like to raise.

YOUR COUNCILLORS

The London Borough of Bexley is divided into 17 wards and has 45 councillors.

To find 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

Abena Oppong Asare, MP for Thamesmead and Erith

To contact Abena Oppong Asare MP - Write to: House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA, Email: abena.oppongasare. mp@parliament.uk Telephone - 020 7219 3000

London Assembly Member Peter Fortune AM (Bexley and Bromley)

To contact Peter Fortune E-mail: peter.fortune@ london.gov.uk

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 www.bexley.gov.uk/ councillors

What’s on! December - February

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

Online Fostering Information Sessions

Speak to a Bexley foster carer and a friendly member of our fostering team to find out what It’s like to foster a child with Bexley. To join, please email fostering@ bexley.gov.uk or call 020 3045 4400

•15 December, 6pm to 7pm •19 January, 6pm to 7pm

Free cycling training

For adults living or working in Bexley www.bexley.gov.uk/cycling roadsafetyeducation@bexley. gov.uk

Love Crayford Market

10am to 3pm, recurring event

Waterside Gardens, Crayford DA1 4JJ Every second Saturday of the month

Sidcup Producers Market

10am to 2pm, recurring event Nisbett Walk, Sidcup DA14 6BT First Friday of the month www.facebook.com/ TheProducersMarkets1

Abbey Wood Village Market

10:30am to 3:30pm, recurring event Abbey Arms Car Park, Wilton Road SE2 9R

First Saturday of the month www.facebook.com/ AWVMarket

Danson House

Producers Market

10am to 3pm, recurring event Danson House, Danson Park DA6 8HL Fourth Sunday of the month www. facebook. com/theproducersmarkets1

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 sasha.barnes@ageukbexley. org.uk - 020 8300 0883

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. sasha.barnes@ageukbexley. org.uk - 020 8300 0883

Winter Welcome

1pm to 5pm, every Tuesday and Saturday

St. John The Evangelist Church, Church Road, Sidcup DA14 6BX Come and join us to share the warmth this winter. We are offering refreshments and soup. Free Wi-Fi, community larder and activities.

Sidcup Christmas Trail

Until 1 January 2023 - Free Downloadable map available online. Decode the magic Christmas word to be in with a chance of winning fantastic prizes including vouchers and Harry Styles tickets. www.sidcuppartners.co.uk

The Unlikely Mummy pop up events

Yoga & stretching - Danson Youth Centre, Brampton Road, Bexleyheath DA7 4EZ

Pre & Postnatal PilatesSt. John The Evangelist Church, Church Road, Sidcup DA14 6BX £45 for block session. PAYG options available. The Unlikely Mummy works in partnership with local business to support families with mental health, wellbeing, and opportunities. www.theunlikelymummy. co.uk/

Elf Yourself

11am to 4pm Saturday 3 December

Broadway Shopping Centre, Bexleyheath DA6 7JN

Pick your leaflet up from the giant snow globe by the clock tower. Visit all the elf stations to transform yourself into an Elf. Return to the snow globe for your graduation photo! No booking needed.

Christmas Market

11am to 4pm, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 December Danson House, Danson Park DA6 8HL - Free entry Live entertainment, Christmas stalls, festive food, hot chocolate and mulled wine, Christmas Trail, fantastic Santa’s Grotto run by Greenwich & Bexley Hospice, plus surprise visitors!

offer Free guided tours of the ruins. www.facebook.com/ lesnesabbeyfarmers

Lesnes Abbey Christmas Celebration

11am to 4pm, Saturday 3 December Free entry Winter Market, festive entertainment, hook a Christmas duck, reindeer food station and wreath making, and more arts and crafts in the Children’s zone! Plus join in the Christmas Treasure Hunt (prebookable)

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.

Crossness Pumping Station

Family Open Day

10:30am to 2:30pm Sunday 11 December 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

What’s on at Lesnes Abbey

Lesnes Abbey Woods, New Road SE2 0AX www.lesnesabbeywoods.org www.facebook.com/ lesnesabbey

Lesnes Abbey Farmers Market

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 Friends of Lesnes Group

Christmas Garden Trail 10am to 4pm, 1 to 31 December £2.50 per trail sheet Find all the Christmas characters and the recipe for delicious cupcakes outside in the gardens. Includes small chocolate prize.

Deck the Hall

Time slots available from 4pm to 6:30pm, 12, 13, 20 and 21 December

£9 adult, £5 child (16 and under), under 5s free Enjoy the beautiful historic surroundings and yuletide cheer as Hall Place is decked with boughs of holly, garlands, colourful decorations, and trees as tall as the ceilings. This year’s theme is The Nutcracker. Complimentary glass of mulled wine or juice. Book in advance online.

Christmas Lunch

12pm to 2:30pm Friday 16 December £35 per person

Enjoy a festive three course meal with friends and family in the fully decorated Great Hall. Book in advance with Relish Catering & Event Management info@relish.co.uk 01322 221159

Code Name: Santa Fe Tour

11am, 9 January and 6 February 2023 £8 per person

Discover how American soldiers stationed at Hall Place intercepted encoded messages sent by Nazis. Find out how the rooms were used over 70 years ago to carry out top-secret work as part of Operation Ultra.

Bexley Technical School for Girls Tour

11am (doors open at 10:45pm) 23 January and 20 February 2023 £8 per person

Discover how the rooms were used during the 1950s and 1960s as an annexe to the main school. Girls were taught Geography, Needlework and Music in the beautiful Tudor house. Book in advance online.

Burns Night 6:30pm to 11:30pm, Saturday 21 January £46.50 per person

Tickets include a four-course meal, whiskey sample and a traditional piper! Age 16+ info@relish.co.uk 01322 221159

Historic House Tour

11am (doors open at 10:45pm), Monday 30 January £8 per person

Explore how the historic house has evolved and changed with each owner since the 16th century. There might be a few secrets revealed too! After the tour visit our exhibition galleries to see items dating back to prehistoric and Roman times, as well as WWII.

Wedding Open Day 11am to 3pm, Sunday 26 February - Free entry View our wedding spaces set up and dressed for a real-life wedding to give you inspiration for your dream day. hallplaceweddings@bexley. gov.uk

with each other more and enjoy wine and nibbles. Adults only.

Valentines Community Event

10am to 3pm, Saturday 11 February - Free Entertainers, stalls, craft, face painting, tattoos and much more. All ages.

Family Date Night 5:30pm to 7pm, Friday 24 February £15 per adult and child Come and spend some quality time with your child over a two-course meal.

What’s on at Blackfen Community Library

7-9 Blackfen Road, Sidcup DA15 9LU www.blackfencommunity library.org - 020 8301 1433 Events should be booked in advance online.

Breakfast with Santa 8:30am to 9:30am, 3, 10 and 17 December £12 per child

Have breakfast, enjoy entertainment from Santa and his Elf, a photo op and collect a present.

Christmas Afternoon Tea 2pm to 3:30pm, Wednesday 14 December £15 per person

Enjoy a Christmas themed Afternoon Tea. Adults only.

Messy Church Christmas Party

2pm to 3pm, Wednesday 21 December - Free

Craft, stories, singing, food and fun all about Christmas.

Café Evening with Games 7:30pm, last Friday of the month from January 2023 Free

Come along for games or chat or just to chill in Rooted Coffee House

Couples Evening 7:45pm to 9pm, Thursday 2 February - Free Date night for you and your partner! Learn how to connect

What’s on at The Exchange

The Old Library, Walnut Tree Road, Erith DA8 1RS www.theexchangeerith.com 01322 341144

Festive Market 11am to 4pm, Sunday 4 December - Free Good value, eco-friendly, and locally crafted items from 30 stallholders. Enjoy music from a local Oompah Band, songs from The Voices of The Makers, a drop-in family workshop creating bug hotels, and mince pies and mulled wine.

Winter Wreathing 1:30pm to 3:30pm, 8 to 10 December £25, book online. Create a stunning winter wreath to take home while learning about seasonal plants that make up our local landscape.

Old Library History Tours

3pm to 4pm, Saturday 10 December - Free 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.

Annual Carnegie Ensemble Baroque Concert

3pm to 5pm, Sunday 11 December

£15 (£12 concessions), book online. The Carnegie

Ensemble with MezzoSoprano Louisa Stuart-Smith perform music by Bach, Händel, Vivaldi, Purcell, and female composer Barbara Strozzi.

Merry Quizmas! at The Bookstore

7pm to 9pm, 17 December, £5 per person

Bring a team along for a fun festive-themed quiz night of deliberations, drinks, and hopefully not too many disagreements. Prizes for the winning team.

New Year’s Eve Party

9pm to 1am, 31 December/ 1 January

£10, under 16s free See in the New Year with spaces to sit and relax, a bar, Special New Year’s family menu and dance floor with tunes provided by local DJ Nick Davey and other residents.

What’s on at Geddes Place

United Reformed Church Bexleyheath DA6 7DJ www.geddesplaceurc.org.uk premisessteward.gp@gmail. com 020 8303 5849

Dancercise

Mondays, 10am to 11am

Card making group 1:30pm to 3pm

First Wednesday each month

Let’s talk about it - a discussion group 1pm to 2:30pm

Second Wednesday each month

Knit and natter

1:30pm to 3pm

Third Wednesday each month

Coffee & lunch club

10:30am to 1:30pm

Come for a home cooked lunch and dessert or just soup, served from 12 noon. No need to book.

Over 50s exercise Fridays, 10am to 11am

Getting your garden winter ready

Tivoli are responsible for the maintenance of the borough’s 106 parks, open spaces, and cemeteries.

They are currently hard at work getting Bexley’s green spaces ready for winter and they have shared these top tips to help get your garden winter ready too.

� Tidy up flower beds and borders - have a general tidy up, but do not go too far, as old seed heads and foliage provide great protection for wildlife over winter and gives your garden some winter structure too.

� Order spring-flowering bulbs and seeds – there is nothing better than seeing the fresh shoots of flowers in early spring, so order and plant spring bulbs like daffodil, tulip, hyacinth, freesia, crocus, and allium in November and December.

� Clean out your compost bins –your autumn clear-up may give you lots of new compostable material, so now is a great time to clear out your compost bins and use up your existing compost. If it is not degraded enough yet, give it a turn and make a new compost area for your new waste.

� Start collecting rainwateradding a water butt in your garden makes the most of autumn and winter rainfall.

If you are interested in purchasing home compost bins, we have teamed up with Get Composting to offer special rates on compost bins & more.

Visit www.getcomposting.com

Don’t feed foxes

Foxes do not depend on our generosity to keep them alive according to London-based charity ‘The Fox Project’. Feeding them can do more harm than good.

The charity says that a fox will give up its territory in favour of a steady food supply. If the supply stops, the fox is forced into other territories, causing fights and serious injuries.

Foxes also like to bury surplus food, which can be frustrating for your neighbours. Some people may retaliate with pest control deterrents, potentially causing further harm to foxes, cats, and other wildlife. Visit http://foxproject.org.uk/

JOBS

local organisations

Academy Photographic Group 07976 760488

Academy - United Judo Bexleyheath www.unitedjudo.com

Active Horizons Youth 07833 477651/020 8310 5481

Adult Community Art Lessons @CleevePark www.sandiecamilleri.wixsite.com/artlab 07931 824110

Advocacy Now info@advocacynow.org.uk

Age UK Bexley - 020 8300 0883

Air Training Corps (Youth)

Welling Sqdn - 020 8303 7379

Bexleyheath Sqdn - 01322 559056 Sidcup Sqdn - 020 8309 9926

Erith Sqdn - 01322 340749

Alzheimer’s Society

Bexley Branch - 01322 524950/ 559308

Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 www.bexleych.wix.com/bexleycharities-78

Assyrian Community of Kent 01322 335479

Avante Community Support: Homecare 01322 344 980

107 (Bexleyheath) Army Cadet Force 07756 775294

Advocacy for All 0345 310 1812

Advocacy Now info@advocacynow.org.uk

Barnehurst Yoga Club 0771 222 6261

Barnehurst & Ivor Thomas Pool League davidleeds452@btinternet.com

Belvedere Over 50s Keep Fit 0208 311 5550

Belvedere Social Bowls Club 01322 435 149

Bexley Borough Mummies 07572 473 272

Belvedere Community Forum and Centre 020 8311 5550

Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme 01322 311333

Bexley Active Retirement Club 020 8303 9675

Bexley African Caribbean Community Association (BACCA) 07946 497 731

Bexley Archaeological Group 020 8300 1752

Bexley Art Group 01322 430681

Bexley Arts Trust 020 8303 8177

Bexley Athletics Club 01322 342485 / info@bexleyac.org.uk www.bexleyac.org.uk

Bexley Bards Story Tellers 0771 222 6261

Bexley visually impaired bowls club 020 8304 8409

Bexley Book Binding Group 07504 610 682

Bexley Borough Pensioners Forum 01322 527097

Bexley Boys & Girls Hall 020 8858 5123

Bexley Cats Protection 07880 471333

coordinator@bexley.cats.org.uk

Bexley Centre for the Unemployed 020 8301 3187

Bexley Churches Housing Assoc. Ltd 020 3866 5999

Bexley Civic Society secretary@bexleycivicsociety.org.uk

Bexley Coin Club 0208 303 0510

Bexley Community Library Art Club 01322 836303/07446 480619

Bexley Cricket Club steventhomas.crawley@openreach.co.uk

Bexley Croquet Club 01322 287581 / 01322 525975

Bexley & District Cats Protection 07880 471333

Bexley & Sidcup Lions Club 07790 279683

Bexley Deaf Centre 01322 351122

Bexley Federation of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners (BFALG) 07470 468594

Bexley Foodbank 0808 208 2138 - 07385 921627

Bexley Football Club 020 8858 5123

Bexley Natural Environment Forum 01322 521 259

Bexley Down’s Syndrome Group www.bexleydownssyndrome.co.uk

Bexley Heritage Trust Hall Place - 01322 526574

Bexley Historical Society secretary@bexleyhistoricalsociety.org.uk

Bexley Ladies Keep Fit Club

Hurst Community Centre

Bexley & Lewisham Sea Cadets 020 8304 9448

Bexley Masters Swimming Club 07957 447432

Bexley Marquetry Group 01689 851702

Bexley Mencap 020 8303 6336

Bexley ME Support Group 020 8303 8553

Bexley Moorings Project www.bexleymoorings.co.uk

Bexley Music Society 020 8306 2152

Bexley Pain Group 020 8298 6287

Bexley Park Bowls Club selkent01@hotmail.com

Bexley Photography Chatter Community www.BexleyPhotographyChatter.co.uk

Bexley Rotary Club bexleyrotaryclub@gmail.com

Bexley Rugby Football Club www.bexleyrugby.co.uk - 07909 555521

Bexley SNAP 01322 359 475

Bexley Stop Smoking Service 0800 7832514

Bexley Talking Newspaper 01322 445293

Bexley Tinnitus Support Group 01322 525115

Bexley Twofold 020 8303 7777/020 3045 4920

Bexley Turkish Elderly Day Centre 020 8306 6736

Bexley Voice - 07512 409936

Bexley Volunteer Centre 01322 524682

Bexley Ukulele Group 07711 704033

Bexley WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) 020 8300 1845

Bexley Women’s Aid - 020 8301 1536

Bexley Village Women’s Institute 01322 554544

Bexleyheath & District Club for Disabled - 020 8303 4826

Bexleyheath & Barnehurst Bowls Club 01322 526932 or 0744 447 5417

Bexleyheath & Belvedere Hockey Club 07720 412547

Bexleyheath Photographic Society https://bexleyheathphotographicsociety.

zenfolio.com/

Bexleyheath Morning Townswomens Guild 020 8310 4537

Bexleyheath Gaming Club (Pokémon/Yu-Gi-Oh!) www.facebook.com/BexleyGamingClub

Bexleyheath & Crayford Waterside Women’s Institute 01322 449066

Bexrose Gardening Society 01322 449066

Bird College - 020 8300 6004

Box Therapy www.boxtherapy.online

Brampton Art Group - 020 8303 9132

The Boys’ Brigade & Girls Assoc 020 8304 9669

Bridge Club at Bexleyheath, Scout Hall 01322 446625 / 07799 220954

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 3964

Chislehurst & Sidcup Ballet Club 07746719258

Care Matters UK Ltd - 01322 522440

Carers’ Support Bexley 020 8302 8011

Chislehurst & Sidcup Ballet Club 07746 719258

The Compassionate Friends Child Bereavement Support www.tcf.org.uk Connexions Prospects 020 3045 5555

Contact the Elderly 020 8303 4723

County Gate Lodge www.countygatelodge-freemasons.co.uk

Cray Cottage Bowls Club Erith - 07971 053484

Crayford & District Probus Club 020 8300 3609

Crayford Camera Club 01322 438808

Crayford Judo Club 01322 631108

Crayford Manor House Historical Society 01322 551279

Crayford Women’s Institute 01322 557229

Crescent Lawn Tennis Club (Sidcup) www.crescenttennisclub.co.uk

The Crossness Engines Trust www.crossness.org.uk Crossroads Care South East London 01322 336086

Cruse Bereavment Care - 020 8304 5245 Danson Park Bowls Club 07751068274

Danson Youth Trust 020 8303 6052

Darent Cray National Trust Association 01474 705402

Diabetes UK Bexley Support Group 07775 305110

Dimbleby Macmillian Cancer Support Guys at Queen Mary’s hospital 020 7188 0771

East Wickham and Welling Allotment and Garden Society 07922 255133

East Wickham Open Space Conservation Volunteers www.facebook.com/eastwickham conservationvolunteers

Erith & Belvedere Local History Society 01322 337893/01322 332717

Erith & District Swimming Club edsc@edsc.org.uk

Erith & District Synchronised Swimming Squads synchro@edsc.org.uk

Erith & Thamesmead CAP Debt Centre 07576 315994

Erith Model Railway Society www.erithmrs.ukmodelshops.co.uk

Erith Nemesis Martial Arts Gym 01322 335076

Erith Veterans Club Ltd - 01322 342137

Erith Veterans Club Singers 01322 553078

Evergreen Care Bexley www.evergreencarebexley.org

Feel Good Co-Operative - 07908 034081

Friends of Danson Park - 07596 657763

Friends of Foots Cray Meadows www.footscraymeadows.org

Friends of the Red House 01322 865186

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

Friends of the Shuttle

www.facebook.com/FriendsoftheShuttle

Family Action - 020 8310 6570

Girlguiding UK www.girlguiding.org.uk or call 0800 169 5901

Haven - Gay & Lesbian Social Group 01322 287356 / 07804 808581

Headway South East London/ North West Kent 020 8319 7148

Healthwatch Bexley 020 8304 9344

Helio Mirror Bowls Club www.russellparkbowls.co.uk/helio-mirror Hill Park Autistic Trust 01322 334318

Holy Trinity Lamorbey Social Club 07903 565502

Hurst Horticultural & Garden Society 020 8306 2202

Imago 07710 847812 www.imago.community Insight Bexley 07824 999581

Inspire Community Trust 020 3045 5100

Irish Community Services in Greenwich, Bexley & Lewisham 020 8854 4466

Jlinks Physiotherapy 07951 025208

Kingfisher Bowls C lub 020 8302 8830

Lamorbey Over 50’s Club 020 8304 6055

Lamorbey Park Archers www.lamorbeyparkarchers.club

Lamorbey & Sidcup Local History Society 020 8302 0059

Lamorbey Park Cricket Club 07741 193133

Lesnes Abbey Woods Conservation Volunteers www.facebook.com/ LesnesAbbeyConservationVolunteers

London Borough of Bexley Retired Employees Assoc 020 8300 5526/020 8303 0606

Macular Society Bexley Support Group 020 8856 8954

Manor House Bowls Club 020 8310 3648 07305 093876

Mayplace Art & Crafts Group 01322 529972

The Meeting Place Wed 9.30am - 1.30pm

St John Fisher Church Hall Meridian Canoe Club - 07801 549601

MIND In Bexley 020 8303 5816

MND Association - 01322 228169

Multiple Sclerosis Society 020 8306 7050

New Sidcup / Eagles / Bexley Badminton Club www.eaglesandsidcup.com

NFOP (National Federation of Occupational Pensioners) 020 8298 7074

Sidcup Ladies Club 07765 428569 - (7.15 p.m. - 9.15 p.m)

North West Kent Family History Society www.nwkfhs.org.uk

North Kent Philatelic Society 07947 859016

North Kent Scottish Association  Wednesday evenings at Barnehurst Golf Club

Old Bexley Floral Arrangement Society 020 8302 9984

Parkinson’s Disease Society - 020 8306 5973

The Practical Photographic Group 020 8304 6561

Rainbows, Guide or Ranger Groups 020 8301 1200/01322 294516

Re-Instate Community Hub 01322 438155

Remap, London South Disability 07780 366130

The Rendevous Club for over 50’s 01322 287356/020 8859 2035

Red Robins Singing for Health 07900 205862

Royal Airforces Assoc 020 8303 5158

Royal Artillery AssociationSidcup Branch 020 8306 1992

Royal Naval Association (Sidcup Branch) 07932 767105

Serenade Singers mcwhitford@gmail.com

St John Ambulance Sidcup - 0844 770 4800 Erith - 07974 219471

St Michaels Ladies Club Welling 020 8306 1146

Samaritans 020 8301 1010

Shopmobility Scheme 020 8301 5237

Sidcup Art Club - 020 8302 5390

Sidcup Bowls Club - 07977 145039

Sidcup Chess Club www.sidcupchessclub.org.uk

Sidcup Cricket Club 07411 177680

Sidcup Active Retirement Association 07414 818944

Sidcup Debt Advice - 020 8269 8621

Sidcup & District Caledonian Association Scottish Country Dancing 020 8856 4522

Sidcup & District Motor Cycle Club 01634 201268

Sidcup Jazz Club 01322 442442

Sidcup Jazz Record Club 01689 835805

Sidcup Literary & Scientific Society 020 8300 8647

Sidcup Musical Productions 020 8304 9150 / 020 8300 1392

Sidcup Pentanque Club - based at Sidcup Recreation Club 07825 934694

Sidcup Symphony Orchestra 01322 552710

Signpost Community - Drug & Alcohol Team 01322 357940

SmileyArk Kids Club 07956 263531

Smyth Lodge Care home (Sidcup) 03333 218599

The Scout Association 0845 094 6368 or 0845 300 1818

Speakability Sidcup 080 8808 9572

SSAFA - the Armed Forces Charity 020 8639 0495

Stillbirth & Neonatal Death 07951 454682

St John Ambulance Crayford Sidcup 0844 770 4800

St Mary’s (Welling)Players 020 8303 8933/ 07866 259302

Sunrise Frognal House Residental Care Home (Sidcup) 020 8302 2600

Trust Thamesmead 020 3828 4900

The Link Thamesmead 020 3828 4950

Sporting Club Thamesmead 020 3828 4920

Thames Innovation Centre 020 8320 1000

Thamesmead Running Club 07944 282611

United Nations Assoc (Bexley) 01322 335 479

University of the Third Age Abbey Wood & Thamesmead 020 8311 4797

University of the Third Age Bexley 07859 882385

University of the Third Age Sidcup and District- 07717 020611

Sandra Applegate (Secretary) Veterans Club of Bexley - 020 8304 2815

Victim Support (Bexley) 020 7277 1433/ 020 8698 4583

Volunteers Information Service (VIS) 01322 335 479

Welling Art Group - 07905 437 840

Welling Being Link - 07895 143939

Welling U3A - University of the Third Age 020 8311 5295 or 07710 324717

Women’s Aid Helpline - 020 8301 1536

www.bexley.gov.uk

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 registerofficebexley@kent.gov.uk

Council Tax & Housing Benefits – 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

Council news via email newsletters at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates Register to vote at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

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 or sexual abuse – Solace in Bexley 0203 1984 659

Job centre Plus – 0800 169 0190

Bexley Business Employment Support - 020 3045 3800

Citizens Advice Bexley – 0808 2505 709 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm)

Age UK Bexley – 020 8300 0883

For other enquires call 0800 169 8787

Bexley Voluntary Service Council – 01322 524682

Bexley Foodbank - 0808 208 2138 and 07385 921627

For all other Council services please call our automated switchboard on 020 8303 7777 to request the department you require

Children’s Services. In an emergency always call 999.

Befriending Café Thursday mornings at Blackfen Community Library - all welcome

Welling Men’s Group every Wednesday afternoon at Erith and Belvedere Football Club in Bellegrove Road

Café at the Belvedere Community Centre every Monday morning for people with memory loss issues and their Carers. Please contact Sasha Barnes, sasha.barnes@ ageukbexley.org.uk or call 020 8300 0883

Be who

a keen

always