Bexley Magazine - Spring 2021

Bexley

Spring

News

Latest news and information from your Council

Magazine Spring 2021

Vaccine roll-out success Budget update Local information – community news

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News

Inside

your magazine 4 Budget latest

7 May elections

9 Your vaccine questions

11 Fancy a new skill

14 Our new bike track

All our yesterdays 24 Six things 22 Local information 25

What’s on 26 Services 29 Local organisations 30

If you would like to know more about the services the Council provides, or would like either

Welcome Welcome to your Spring magazine. Along with the spring buds and bulbs appearing across the borough, we are all seeing reasons to be optimistic that we are at last winning the Covid battle.

I know many of you will welcome the first signs of a relaxation of lockdown and the careful return to more normal times.

As the magazine went to print more than 60,000 people in Bexley had received their first vaccination and those over 65 and other clinically vulnerable people were being called to have their jab. I know that I’ll be thrilled and proud to get my injection as soon as I get that call.

We must remember that, although there is light at the end of the tunnel, we all still need to be careful and keep on protecting each other. My thoughts go out to everyone who has lost a loved one because of the virus.

This magazine includes information on the Council’s budget and Council Tax. We are working hard to protect essential services and planning carefully for life after the pandemic.

Finally – the GLA elections are in May this year. Remember, if you would prefer not to visit a polling station you can apply for a postal vote now. It takes seconds and, if you change your mind later, you can still take your vote to the polling station.

a translation of this document or the information in a different format, please call our Customer Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777, quoting reference: 602063/2.21 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

Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE

Editorial: Bexley Communications Team. Designed and produced by: Bexley Graphics.

Leader of the Council

London Borough of Bexley does not accept responsibility for goods or services offered by advertisers

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News

Budget and Council Tax The Magazine went to print before the final decisions on this year’s Council budget, but the full Council meeting on 3 March is expected to agree the recommendations of the Cabinet meeting on 22 February.

Cabinet recommended a 1.99% Council Tax increase, in addition to the 3% Adult Social Care Precept, and a budget designed to protect priority services and address the impact of Covid.

Detailed information on next year’s Council Tax, plus the Council’s income and expenditure, will be set out in the booklet ‘Your Council Tax’ explained. The booklet will be published on www.bexley.gov.uk in mid-March, when this year’s Council Tax bills are sent out. It will also set out the elements of your Council Tax that we collect on behalf of other organisations, including the Greater London Authority and the Environment Agency.

Although a final decision had not been taken when the Magazine went to print, the London Mayor is expected to increase the GLA’s Council Tax by 9.5%.

The Budget proposed will keep the Council’s books balanced and ensure that there is new investment in key frontline services. The Council is also planning investments in the future of the Borough to help recover from the pandemic. This includes: X £1.2m for a new library in Thamesmead X £3.4m for new schools and school facilities X £3m for adult social care and public health X £2m for children’s services X £2m investment in temporary accommodation “The past year has been challenging for everyone in a range of ways. It has also had a dramatic impact on the Council’s finances. We will continue to take the decisions that are needed to safeguard essential services and deliver for the people who rely on us.”

Councillor Teresa O’Neill OBE, Leader of the Council

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The new Cleeve Meadow School

Making the case for fairer funding Cabinet Members are lobbying the government for a fairer share of the funding provided to local councils.

Bexley has been a low spending borough for many years and receives much less in grant from the government than most other councils in London. It also receives the third lowest public health grant of any council in the country.

London’s rapid growth over recent years means that Bexley is beginning to experience new challenges, including increased demand for temporary accommodation and social care, which create extra financial pressures.

The Council has a good track record of delivering quality services and attracting inward investment into the borough with limited resources. Recent achievements include -

X Children’s services rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted X Green Flag winning parks and open spaces X London’s top borough for recycling X Two new libraries under construction X Two new schools for children with special educational needs “We continue to lobby for a fairer share of the money allocated to local councils, which will help us maintain and improve local services. This is difficult given all the other demands the Chancellor is facing, but we will continue to fight for a better deal for our residents.”

Councillor David Leaf, Cabinet Member for Resources

News

Four stage plan to lift lockdown As the magazine went to print, the Government announced the plan that it hopes will see the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions.

Its guidance to ‘stay at home’ will continue and many restrictions are likely to remain in place until at least 29 March.

Lockdown will be eased in several stages if these four conditions are met X The coronavirus vaccine programme continues to go to plan

X Care home residents can receive one regular, named visitor X Funerals 30 guests, wakes and weddings 6 guests.

From 29 March X Outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households will be allowed X No household mixing indoors

X Organised outdoor adult and X Evidence shows vaccines are children’s sport will return sufficiently reducing the number of people dying, or needing X Outdoor sports and leisure hospital treatment, because of facilities will be able to reopen. the virus Stage two X Infection rates do not create From 12 April the risk of a surge in hospital X Indoor leisure, outdoor admissions attractions, libraries and all retail X New variants of the virus do not should be able to reopen fundamentally change the risk of X Outdoor hospitality will reopen lifting the restrictions.

X Funerals 30 guests. Wakes and The situation is fast moving, and weddings 15 guests. changes could take place after the magazine is printed.

Stage three Please visit www.gov.uk/ From 17 May guidance/national-lockdown-stay- X Indoor entertainment and at-home for full details and to stay attractions to reopen up to date.

X Rule of six or two households can mix indoors Plan for phased

easing of restrictions Correct as of 23 February Stage one From 8 March

X International travel will be possible – subject to review X Some large events will be allowed

X Funerals wakes and weddings X All schools were due to open 30 guests. with outdoor after-school sports Stage four and activities allowed. Please visit your child’s school website From 21 June X Reopening of remaining for details premises, including nightclubs X Recreation in a public space and easing of restrictions on such as a park - will be allowed large events and performances between two people X No household mixing

X No legal limit on funeral, wakes and wedding guests.

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News

Users help shape library changes

At the end of last year, we asked library users to have their say on proposals for Bexley’s libraries. The proposals focused on delivering essential savings while keeping libraries accessible to all. More than 2,400 residents had their say.

Cabinet Member for Places, Cllr only, with staff on hand to help, Peter Craske said: “While showing at all Council libraries. their passion for our libraries, people X Closure of the Central Library on took the chance to tell us which of Sundays. the proposals they most supported.

X Closing Central Library for one We have listened to this and, as a day a week and all others for two result, have been able to develop days a week (midweek). a new model that will keep a highX A 20% reduction in funding to quality service, while delivering vital community libraries. savings to the Council.

Cllr Craske added: “It is also As a result of the consultation important to remember that, while responses the changes to libraries they are part of our community, the will see library buildings are only part of the X Evening opening hours continue. service. Our online service has gone X Local Studies and Archive Centre from strength to strength over the will continue to be available past few months, providing a vital to anyone during Central lifeline for all ages.”

Library opening times. Anyone The library changes will take place who needs help with detailed from May. research will need to make an Find out more about Bexley appointment. libraries online services at X Use of self-service on Saturday www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-libraries

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Have you completed your online 2021 Census?

The census date is 21 March.

Households across Bexley have been asked to take part in the nationwide survey of housing and the population. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.

The census helps build the most complete picture of England and Wales. The whole population has the chance to provide the information that ensures all communities are represented in decisions on funding and services.

Information from the digitalfirst census will help decide how services are planned and funded in our local area. This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, housing or new bus routes.

You should have received a letter with a unique access code in the post earlier this month, allowing you to complete your questionnaire online. Paper questionnaires are also available on request. Census day is 21 March.

If you haven’t completed your Census form online, it’s not too late!

For more information, visit census.gov.uk or contact Nicola Brend-Stewart, the Community Engagement Manager for Bexley on 07452 939 084 or nicola. brend-stewart85@field.census. gov.uk Please remember that the Census is compulsory for everyone in England and Wales to take part.

News

Don’t lose your vote On Thursday 6 May, you get the chance to say who runs London for the next three years.

To take part in the London Mayoral election you must be registered to vote. If you are not already registered, log onto www.gov.uk/register-to-vote While we hope that the Government’s Covid restrictions will be relaxed by that time, we will still need to take care, as things hopefully start to get back to normal.

If you would prefer not to visit a potentially crowded polling station, why not apply for a postal vote? Anyone can apply for a postal vote and you do not have to give a reason.

You can send in your postal vote at any time before the election. If you have any concerns about visiting a polling station on 6 May, apply now – do it early!

If after you have applied you change your mind and decide to vote in person, you can even hand your postal vote in at your local polling station on election day.

Important dates Deadline to register to vote – 19 April Deadline for new postal votes – 20 April Deadline for new proxy votes – 27 April Polling day – 6 May

To be absolutely sure that you are registered for a postal vote apply straight away, by logging on to: www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voter or call 020 8303 7777 and ask for elections.

We want your views on Children’s Centres Consultation into the future of Bexley’s Children’s Centres will take place in Spring.

This will be the second stage of the consultation.

Residents, partners, staff and all stakeholders will all be asked to have their say on the plans.

Before the consultation begins, we are keen to hear what the best way is for you to have your say. Current government restrictions mean large meetings are not possible, so please tell us how you would prefer to hear about the consultation and have your say – this could include – X Focus groups via Zoom or Teams X Hard copy questionnaire X Online questionnaire Email childrenscentreconsultation@bexley. gov.uk please share how you would like to hear from us.

Keep an eye on our website and sign up to our email updates at www.bexley.gov.uk/ newsupdates to find out when the consultation begins.

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Covid-19

Get tested to stop the spread “Our aim is to ensure that all our residents - regardless of where they live - have access to tests locally.

Getting tested regularly, even when you don’t have symptoms, is crucial in the fight against Covid. The earlier we detect the virus the faster we can stop the spread and protect others.”

Getting a test if you have symptoms

Dr Anjan Ghosh, Bexley’s Director of Public Health

As many as one in three people who have coronavirus do not have any symptoms and can

We have set up five testing sites for those who develop symptoms of the virus. These are located across the Borough, which means that if you develop symptoms and need to book a test you shouldn’t have to travel far to be tested.

To book calling 119 or go online to www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Getting a test if you don’t have symptoms

spread the virus without knowing.

By getting a no symptoms rapid test we can identify these people, and reduce the spread of the virus.

Free rapid testing is available 7 days a week at the Civic Offices in Bexleyheath. All Bexley residents and workers are eligible for a test, even if they don’t have symptoms.

If you are a regular user of public transport, cannot work from home, it is recommended that you have a test twice a week.

Pre-book your test now at www.bexley.gov.uk/rapidtest Walk-in tests are available during quiet times, typically afternoons.

Our Community Champions Brandon is a 21 year-old volunteer for Isolation Help Bexley The snow didn’t prevent him delivering urgent prescriptions to residents in Bexleyheath and Northumberland Heath on his bicycle.

Freya (8) and Xander (5) pictured helped their mum Sarah deliver leaflets in Welling as part of the Council’s Community Champions initiative, to ensure vital information reaches all residents, including those who are not online.

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Nina Ndubuisi - Community Champion from Belvedere “I was a bit dubious about having the vaccine at first.

“Thankfully, common sense prevailed. I read up about the vaccine, listened to the experts, and remembered that I have had people close to me die from this virus.

“Being part of the BAME community and knowing that we are more at risk from contracting the virus, having an underlying

health condition and being a key worker, I was grateful when I got the invitation to have the vaccine.

“I had the Pfizer vaccine. It was painless and I was able to continue as normal that day. The following day, I woke up with a sore arm and I felt aches in my joints, but after a couple of paracetamol I was fine.

“Knowing that I now have 78% protection from the virus is making me excited, and I cannot wait to have my 2nd dose. “

Wendy Mann - Community Champion from Bexleyheath “I’m so pleased to get my vaccine.

It’s important that we all do this to protect ourselves and the community and so that we can get back to a normal life without restrictions.

“During lockdown I have

missed seeing my family and friends and not having the freedom to do the things I normally do, even if it’s just a browse in the shops, going to the hairdressers and enjoying a holiday.”

COVID vaccinations: your questions answered “Planning and delivering vaccinations is a massive undertaking. In Bexley the roll-out of the vaccination programme has been a great success, thanks to our GPs and Primary Care colleagues, Council staff, NHS workers, volunteers and many of our partner organisations.

“I know many people have questions about the vaccine and I hope the following will help answer those questions”.

Dr Anjan Ghosh, Bexley’s Director of Public Health Q1. Who is being offered the vaccine in Bexley right now?

In line with national guidance, by mid-February all residents and staff in the top four priority groups were offered a first dose of the vaccine.

The priority groups were decided by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) as follows: X all residents in a care home for older adults and their carers X all those 80 years of age and over and frontline health and social care workers X all those 75 years of age and over X all those 70 years of age and over and clinically extremely vulnerable CEV individuals Since 15 February, residents in priority groups five and six – all those 65 years of age and over and adults aged 16 to 65 years in an at-risk group – became eligible for a vaccine and are being contacted.

Adult carers are also now eligible for the vaccine with carers aged 16 and 17 prioritised. The number of people defined as CEV has been expanded and these people will be invited to receive a vaccine. Every adult who is registered on a GP learning disability register is also now eligible.

Q2. It seems that some parts of Bexley were offering the vaccine before others. Why was that?

For purely logistical reasons, we had to take a phased approach to the mobilisation of the roll-out of the vaccine. This phased roll-out was also the national approach and meant some areas offered the vaccine slightly before others. All eligible residents are now being offered the vaccine and we have quickly seen a levelling-up of vaccination across Bexley. as a whole.

Q3. Why is it important I get my COVID-19 vaccination?

Getting your vaccination as soon as you are offered one should protect you, your family and friends. The vaccine will help reduce the rates of serious illness, save lives and reduce pressure on the NHS. It is probably the most important intervention in living memory. If enough people get vaccinated it will pave our way out of this pandemic and allow all of us to enjoy some form of new normalcy.

Q4. How will I be invited for a vaccination?

As the magazine went to print anyone aged 64 and over, a frontline health or social care worker, a carer

or anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk) can now book their vaccine online at www. nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or call 119 without needing an invitation.

If you are under 64 the NHS will contact you either by letter, phone or text message, when it’s your turn.

Q5. Can I choose which vaccine I want?

Any vaccines that are available will have been approved because they passed the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s rigorous safety tests, so you should be assured that whatever vaccine you get, it will be safe and effective.

Q6. What should I do after receiving my first vaccine?

The second dose will be offered about 12 weeks after the first.

Patients will be contacted and given an appointment in the same way as they were for their first dose, once sites know vaccine supply dates. It is important to have both doses of the same vaccine to give you the best protection. It would not be as effective if someone only has one.

Q7. Does the vaccine affect fertility?

No. There is no evidence that the vaccine has any impact on fertility.

Find out more at www.bexley. gov.uk/vaccine-FAQs

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Help for your business Local businesses that have been severely affected by the pandemic are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of Additional Restriction Grants (ARG).

The ARG is a nonrepayable grant that has been set up by Bexley with the support of the Government. The aim is to help local businesses that are not covered by

other grant schemes, or to provide extra funding where it is needed.

Bexley has also introduced a one-off support payment of £1,000 for those who hold a Special Treatment Licence. This is to help these businesses with unavoidable regulatory costs while they are forced to close.

Visit www.bexley.gov. uk/business

Progress to Erith improvements The second phase of the restoration work at the Old Carnegie Library, Erith is due to finish in early Spring.

The improvements are funded by the Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and further fundraising lead by local company The Exchange.

The improvements will include a new lift, studios and new doors that will link the ground floor to the gardens. This work follows the restoration of the basement of the building which was completed in 2019 when the new Bookstore café and community space opened.

For more information on The Exchange in relation to programming, events and ongoing fundraising, visit www.theexchangeerith.com

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Erith Pier Square public realm improvements are also scheduled to start on site later this year.

Following public engagement sessions with residents, next stage of design work to provide improvements to the Riverside Gardens is in progress. A planning application is due to be submitted in the spring.

Work to improve the pedestrianised section of Erith High Street and provide a new shop front at Riverside Shopping Centre will begin at the end of March. The aim is to revitalise the area and to support local companies with a space to display their products.

New business support website The Covid-19 Business Support Programme for businesses across Bexley is designed to help the borough’s town centres, supporting them to re-open in a safe and successful way post-lockdown, and to generate sales and restructure during lockdown.

Businesses can visit www.bexleyportal. co.uk for free access to information videos and resources, to help them become safer and more resilient in the face of Covid-19.

The programme has been developed with funding from the European Regional Development Fund, through the government’s Reopening High Streets Safely programme.

New development takes shape in Sidcup Work is underway on Sidcup’s new cinema and library, on the site of the former Blockbuster store in Sidcup.

Along with a new community cinema, library, the scheme designed by award-winning architects DRDH will include nine new apartments. The project should be finished by Spring 2022.

Cultural infrastructure developer Really Local Group will fit out and run the independent cinema.

It will include three screens, a café, bar area and an event space.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth, Cllr Louie French said: “We can look forward to the addition of a buzzing venue in the heart of the town centre, which will deliver more cultural entertainment and activities for local people to enjoy, new quality homes and a boost to our local economy.”

Time to find new skills?

Feel like a fresh start? Need to learn new workplace skills or refresh old ones?

Want to try a new career or try out a new hobby?

Supported learning

The Learning and Enterprise College Bexley has a huge range of courses on offer. Some of the courses may be free or subsidised if you are on specific benefits.

During the pandemic classes have been delivered remotely, but as the restrictions are lifted normal classroom sessions will begin again.

Learning for work courses include digital skills, diploma courses in employability skills, childcare and school support, horticulture, health and social care, and much more.

If you are looking to meet new people and improve your health and wellbeing, you may be interested in the College’s dance, singing, food, health and fitness courses.

As well as teaching English as a Second Language, the College also runs courses in French, German, Italian and Spanish for all levels.

For arts and crafts fans, there are courses in sewing, textiles, visual arts, photography and more.

Some courses run throughout the

year and others during school terms.

The College will be launching a new curriculum in May. Keep an eye on www.lecb.ac.uk or follow the College on Twitter or Facebook.

You can also sign up to their regular learner e-mail newsletter at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates

The Learning and Enterprise College Bexley run courses tailored for residents with learning disabilities and difficulties.

The courses are developed to help students prepare effectively for life and work.

The choice of courses includes digital skills, cookery, life skills, arts and crafts, drama and more.

Students on the College’s M@KE courses also get the opportunity to sell what they create at the Sidcup campus shop!

Visit www.lecb.ac.uk to find out more.

Schools report Over the past year, education has been a very different experience.

Our children and young people have responded with amazing resilience and adaptability.

Through the Department for Education digital device scheme, 2,321 devices have been provided to Bexley school children to support remote learning. School websites are full of examples of the amazingly creative ways education has adapted to meet the needs of their pupils and students during this time.

The Council continues to work closely with schools and other partners to deliver the Bexley selection test, to progress school maintenance and building projects, as well as supporting families with children who have additional needs.

Councillor John Fuller, Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Education, says: “Our thanks go to all those who have been involved in supporting our young people, from support staff and teachers through to SEN caseworkers and, of course, parents and foster carers who have been supporting home learning.”

As the Magazine went to print we were looking forward to further guidance about schools re-opening and welcoming our pupils back to school learning safely. Keep an eye on your child’s school website for updates.

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wellbeing

A word of advice Last year affected us all in different ways. Along with the threat of illness due to a global pandemic, many of us had to deal with being furloughed, or redundancy.

The first lockdown in March last year, and the restrictions that

followed, meant that many were under prepared for everything that Covid would bring.

Throughout the pandemic our Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) have been able to help our residents with their problems – large and small – providing

How the CAB can help Mr A is married with two children and a housing association tenant. Because of the pandemic he fell behind with his rent. When he came to Bexley Citizens Advice he was at real risk of being evicted.

The Bexley CAB advisor carried out a financial health check and discovered that Mr A was missing out on some

important benefits. The advisor was also able to help Mr A manage his money better and showed the housing association that he could afford to pay the rent regularly. As a result, the threat of losing his home was lifted. Mr A can now afford to pay his rent and bills.

Give your family a healthy start

most large supermarkets, and some even boost the voucher’s value when used in their stores.

Co-op and Tesco Add £1 to the voucher’s value.

Young pregnant women, or families on low incomes with children aged under four, could apply to receive Healthy Start vouchers to spend on vegetables, fruit, pulses and cows’ milk and free vitamins.

You can spend the vouchers in

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Lidl Add £1.15 to the voucher’s value.

Iceland Offer a free £1 bag of frozen vegetables for families with Healthy Start vouchers.

To find out if you qualify visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk

information or signposting them to other support.

The issues don’t have to be about money. The CAB can offer advice on domestic abuse, family issues, immigration concerns and help with consumer issues.

Visit www.bexleycab.org.uk At the time this issue of the magazine went to print the CAB were unable to offer face-toface appointments because of Government restrictions. They continue to provide a phone service on 01322 517150.

GoodGym Bexley GoodGym members run, walk or cycle together to do good deeds for people in the area, as well as helping local organisations with their community projects.

Despite the ongoing pandemic, GoodGym members are still able to get involved in a smaller number of COVID secure activities activities. www.goodgym.org/bexley

Sign up for our news updates www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates

Managing your mental health It is important to take care of your mind and body.

Good mental health is just as important as good physical health.

Being mentally healthy is more than just the absence of a mental illness. If we are in good mental health, we can: X make the most of our potential X cope with life X play a full part in our family, workplace, community and among friends.

The pandedmic has meant that we are all going through different emotions at the moment.

Feeling bored, frustrated or lonely but also worried

or anxious, or concerned about the future.

The organisations below can give you information and signpost you to resources to help you keep on top of your mental and physical wellbeing.

Please make sure you seek support if you feel you need it.

Mind in Bexley provides information on how to deal with anxiety. They also offer online therapy and a Wellbeing line for individuals struggling with their mental health.

Samaritans The Samaritans provide support 24 hours a day.

You can call them by phoning 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org

The Wellbeing line is open Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm.

Call 080 196 3896 or visit www.mindinbexley.org.uk

Other useful websites www.good-thinking.uk www.mind.org.uk www.nhs.uk/oneyou

Help to lose

Free vaping device for pregnant smokers Vaping is 95% safer than continuing to smoke and vaping devices can be used during pregnancy.

Our award-winning Stop Smoking Service is now offering a free vaping device to all pregnant women registered with a Bexley GP who want to quit smoking.

Our team is working with local vape shops to supply the devices,

Mind in Bexley

which can be delivered free of charge to your door.

By joining the service, you will also benefit from receiving free nicotine patches and weekly telephone support from our team of experienced Stop Smoking Advisors.

A smoke free home is the best gift any parent can give to a new-born baby. Make 2021 the year you become smoke free.

Call 0800 783 2514 or visit www. smokefreebexley.co.uk

weight For you: Slimming World

For your child: Alive ‘n’ Kicking

You can enjoy 12 weeks free membership of Slimming World.

Local groups are currently being held online to keep members safe. You’ll receive support through a consultant, a flexible eating plan and activity programme and chat with fellow members for motivation and encouragement.

To be eligible you must be a Bexley resident or registered with a Bexley GP, be aged 16+ and have a BMI above 25kg/m2.

Call Slimming World on 01773 307387 to join.

This free 8-week programme is for children who need help losing weight.

You’ll be able to join in online 1-2-1 or group sessions where a nutritionist will cover a range of healthy eating topics and give live cookery classes.

To be eligible your child must be aged 4 to 11, above the healthy weight range, and either live in Bexley or registered with a Bexley GP. Call Everyone Health on 020 8432 8535 or email whyweight. bexley@nhs.net

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environment

Bexley’s hidden gems

With over 100 parks in Bexley it could be easy to take them for granted. Yet our green spaces have never been in the spotlight as much as they have been during the pandemic.

“We quickly turned to our parks and green spaces for our health and wellbeing, contact with nature, and solace from the anxieties of lockdown.

“We should all avoid travelling out of our local area to visit bigger parks, namely Danson Park, Hall Place & Gardens and Lesnes Abbey Woods, which have become incredibly busy, and instead visit the park or open space closest to your home. You may be surprised to discover some hidden gems that you did not know about before.”

Councillor Peter Craske, Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Places

East Wickham Open Space Wickham Street, Welling DA16 3BL A 28-hectare area of grassland and woodland supported by East Wickham Conservation Volunteers.

Breeding sparrowhawk and green woodpecker are common visitors.

The Green Chain Walk runs through the grasslands, which are home to lots of insects, particularly grasshoppers.

Bexley Woods Elmwood Drive, Bexley DA5 3PT An ancient woodland with a vast number of interesting trees, providing a home for wildlife and nature. The River Shuttle runs through the woods, which takes a winding course, with the water slow moving in different spots.

Name a tree

Lamorbey Park Longlands Road, Sidcup DA15 7LB A 57-hectare park set around a Grade II listed mansion, Lamorbey House. It is home to the Glade, a 7.4-hectare historic landscape laid in the 1920s with a large lake used by the Lamorbey Angling Society.

© Eric MacLennan

BMX in Marten Grove Park, Bexleyheth

We are working with artist Eric MacLennan on an exciting new art project at Lesnes Abbey Woods.

The Lesnes Hundred offers local people the chance to name a tree after someone important to them. It could be an unsung hero of your community or a friend or relative who has done a good deed.

To nominate a name for one of the trees please email eric_maclennan@hotmail.com

by Friday 30 April. www.lesnesabbeywoods.org

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Braeburn Park Lower Station Road, Crayford DA1 3RG A 22.3-hectare former orchard, quarry and landfill site which is now a thriving oasis, boasting several unusual species of insects. Managed by the London Wildlife Trust in partnership with the Land Trust, it is the home of the Wansunt Pit, a geological Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Velosolutions has now finished installing a new BMX pump track on what were disused tennis courts.

The site is currently closed due to lockdown restrictions. In the meantime, we are working with partners Access Sport to develop a new cycling club based at the BMX track.

When it opens, Bexley Bike Club will provide Bexley schools with free cycling sessions for their pupils, led by a Level 2 British Cycling Coach.

Look for more news! www.facebook.com/ BexleyBikeClub

Small changes can make a big difference Your food does its job best when it’s on a plate ready to be enjoyed. Saving food saves money - and it helps to slow down global warming.

3 top ways to cut down on your food waste X Make a shopping list and don’t over buy. You could also take a ‘shelfie’ – a photo of your fridge and cupboards - to remind you of what’s there.

X Check the use-by dates of fresh food when you buy it.

X Love your freezer. Use your weekends to batch-cook and freeze for another day.

Did you know that only half of us know that our fridge should be below 5°C? If your fridge is too warm, then perishable foods like milk will go off more quickly. Be sure to check your fridge temperature today!

There is always going to be some unavoidable food waste, such as bones and peelings. Food

waste in Bexley is collected weekly. If you do not have a food waste bin you can order one online today at www.bexley.gov.uk/collectionday

Let’s scrap fly tipping Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste.

If your waste is fly-tipped, either by you or by someone else on your behalf, you could face a £400 fixed penalty notice, an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to 5 years.

We all have a legal ‘duty of care’ to ensure that our household or business waste is disposed of correctly.

You must always make sure you use a registered waste carrier to collect your rubbish. You can find licensed waste carriers on the Environment Agency’s website at www.environment.data.gov. uk/public-register/view/searchwaste-carriers-brokers

Remember not to take up any unexpected offers to have your rubbish taken away.

Always ask for waste transfer documents confirming where

your waste will be taken before you arrange for the waste to be removed.

If it’s your waste, it’s your responsibility.

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communities

Bexley is a great choice if you are looking to launch a career in social work Nursing an ambition for social work?

Janice Algar is Bexley’s Clinical Quality Lead for Adult Social Care, as well as Interim Manager for the Community Occupational Therapy team.

Always aspiring to enter social work, Janice originally started out as health care assistant to gain experience.

After being offered a place to study nursing, her career took a slightly different path and this year she marks 23 years as a qualified nurse.

Janice joined the Council in 2018 and her work involves the day-today management of the community occupational therapy team, supporting the management team to explore quality concerns, reviewing current ways of working and responding to extra roles created by the pandemic.

These have included Covid secure planning and support for NHS track and trace.

Janice is particularly pleased with the way swabbing procedures were developed

to ensure that vulnerable adults have safe access to care or respite services.

She says: “For the past year I feel that I have been fulfilling my original career path, working within Bexley, where I have gained and developed new skills alongside my nursing skills.

I provide a lot of advice to colleagues and being able to use my nursing skills has given the service a different outlook.”

Janice feels well supported by her managers and work colleagues and would highly recommend a social work career to others.

“No day is the same and it is so rewarding. In fact, my daughter is starting her degree in social work in September. It makes me proud that I have had a positive impact on her career choice.”

Improving the lives of Bexley’s children Working with children and families has been the magic ingredient of a dream career for Sheila Forsdyke - a family key worker with Bexley’s Family Wellbeing Service for the past three years.

Sheila works with families who need support to improve the lives of their children.

Previously, Sheila had been a volunteer in various schools. She spent seven years as a teaching assistant and had worked in Bexley schools since 2006.

She said: “I studied social sciences at the Open University and then went on to become a learning mentor. I supported the social and emotional difficulties which often affected children’s learning in school.

“I wanted to work with parents more directly, so I got a job as an educational welfare officer. I went back into school, supporting parents and children through parenting groups, and therapeutic play. This led to my current role, which is a variety of all the roles I have held. I love it!”

Although lockdown has presented challenges to Sheila’s work, she says there have been some ‘wonderful parents’ who have taken part in online parenting groups that they would not normally have attended.

She is particularly proud to have supported a parent who worked with her on a words and pictures assignment – leading to the work being used as good practice example. Now the parent is keen to help others through more projects that Bexley is setting up.

Summing up why she would recommend her line of work to others, Sheila said: “Working in children’s social care is a challenging role that brings great rewards.”

To find out more about job opportunities in Bexley Social Care visit www.bexley.gov.uk/jobs

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Fostering through young people’s eyes Fostering is a life-changing experience that affects more than just yourself and the person you care for Many foster carers have their own families. Some started fostering when their children were young, and some waited until their children had grown up.

We recently spoke to some children of foster carers, to get their views on the experience.

David explained: “We got into fostering because my mum wanted to give a child a chance to have a family.

“It’s been nice having them here, because I’ve never had siblings my age that I can play and do things with before.”

Scott shared his story of growing up in a fostering household. “I was one when my family started fostering.

“We’ve had a range of people stay with us, from babies to teenagers.

When they’re the same age, you make friends with them and if they are older you learn from them.

“I am now a social worker and I got into the role because of what my mum has done and having those experiences growing up.”

Kandie told us: “I enjoy spending time with my foster brother. He is a young adult and he needs more help than I do.

“Having someone new in the house adds character and depth to our family. The experience has allowed our family to grow.

It’s shown me that family is more than just relatives, but also the people you allow in.”

Having a family isn’t essential to becoming a foster carer. We have many foster carers who are single that don’t have children of their own. Some children benefit from being the only child, while others benefit from living in a larger household.

David

Kandie

Find out more about fostering by calling our friendly team on 020 3045 4400, or visit our website www.bexley.gov.uk/fostering

Foster with Bexley Give a child a better future 020 3045 4400 www.bexley.gov.uk/fostering

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Connected communities

Stolen number plates Number plate theft is on the rise, with more than 70 stolen a day in the UK – that’s over 27,000 every year on average.

Criminals use the plates to disguise their own vehicles, or cars they plan to use. Stolen number plates are mainly used in fuel theft, but cars with stolen plates have also been used in robberies or to avoid paying road tolls such as the Dartford River Crossing. Other cases have involved drivers avoiding paying for insurance or tax.

Simple steps to protect your number plate X Use a garage at night if you can X park in busy well-lit areas X fit a security number plate and anti-tamper plate screws X purchase special security plates

Paw patrol Bexley Neighbourhood Watch are partnering with The Missing Paw Team UK to help try to find the many dogs that go missing, and to help recruit new Houndwatch Members.

The Houndwatch Scheme was set-up for dog walkers to help report issues of crime that they may come across on their daily walkies. Now, as part of the Missing Paw Team UK, they will be able to pass on missing dog issues at the same time -

reducing crime while also helping to reunite lost dogs with their owners.

Bexley Neighbourhood Watch Members receive weekly crime reports which can highlight issues in your Ward. Join now or find out more at www.bexleywatch.org.uk

Red red robin lotto success The Red Robins Club in Sidcup was recently awarded £9,171 from the Lottery to continue its work with people living with stroke and Parkinson’s.

The group meets weekly to offer singing, exercise and companionship on a Thursday morning.

The class, under the leadership of musician Claire Troth, usually takes place in Emmanuel Church Sidcup, although during lockdown it is meeting on Zoom.

Singer and choir conductor Claire inspires the group and encourages their personal development.

To find out more about the Red Robins Club call 07375 715063 or go to www.redrobinsclub.com

Queen’s Fire Service Medal awarded to local engineer Lynsey Seal feels “incredibly honoured” to have received the Queen’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service.

Born and bred in the borough, Lynsey is Principal Fire Engineer for the London Fire Brigade (LFB). She oversees 14 fire engineers and her role includes reviewing new building designs, assessing existing buildings, supporting fire safety enforcement teams – as well as representing the LFB, and sometimes the National Fire Chiefs Council, on technical committees and steering groups.

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Lynsey is also an ambassador for STEM, which encourages young people, especially girls, to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths subjects for future careers.

Keen to see more girls enter professions that are stereotypically portrayed as ‘male’, Lynsey previously headed a project which helped create the children’s book ‘My Mummy is a Firefighter’.

She said: “While I am not a firefighter myself, being an engineer I am still within an area where women are a small percentage of the workforce.”

Connected communities

Domestic abuse No one should suffer domestic abuse. There are local services that can offer help to women, men and children who are subjected to this awful crime.

If you need support, or have worries about domestic or sexual abuse, the organisations below can help you.

Solace 020 3198 4659 bexley.community@solacewomensaid.org If you are concerned for anyone due to domestic abuse, you can report it anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In an emergency always call 999.

For more information on services in the borough visit www.bexleydomesticabuseservices.org.uk

Support for Carers This is not been an easy time for anyone, but it is particularly difficult when you are looking after someone who cannot manage without you, and when some of the usual support services are closed.

It is really important that you look after yourself.

Carers’ Support (Bexley), the charity supporting Carers in Bexley, has recently expanded its counselling service, offering nonjudgemental emotional support over the phone or internet.

The service also offers welfare benefits advice and help with making a claim, as well as support at home for the person you care for, so that you can have a break.

The charity aims to offer face-to-face counselling as soon as it is safe to do so and government restrictions are lifted.

Call 020 8302 8011 or info@carerssupport.org to find out more.

Other local charities offering support include Bexley Mencap – who are doing lots on their Facebook page for people with Learning Disabilities and their Carers. www.facebook. com/bexleymencap MIND in Bexley – offers support to anyone feeling stressed or anxious

www.mindinbexley.org.uk Crossroads Care South East London - offers befriending and breaks from caring, care in the home for adults, as well as children and young people’s services.

Call 01322 336086 or email info@ccsel.org

Bexley’s foodbanks Foodbanks in Bexley continue to help those most in need across the borough.

Contact them if you would like to access the foodbank, or if you would like to find out about donating goods.

Bexley Foodbank Call 07932 431350 between 10am and 4pm www.bexley.foodbank.org.uk or email info@bexley.foodbank.org.uk Slade Green Food Bank Call 07538 300768 or email sladegreenbiglocal@outlook.com Mind in Bexley Community Pantry 07951 493215 Email communitypantry@mindinbexley.org.uk www.mindinbexley.org.uk SmileyArk Kids Mobile Food Bank 07956 263531 Email kids@smileyark.com www.smileyark.com

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6

ways to enjoy outdoors Getting out into the open is something most of us love to do. The pull can be particularly strong in the spring as the weather starts to improve and nature bursts out in an array of colour.

Here are 6 ideas to help you enjoy the outdoors. Please remember to always follow current government guidance and restrictions.

4 Our fantastic Friends of Parks groups are

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The borough has over 100 beautiful parks and open spaces to enjoy. What could be more calming and therapeutic than walking around the grounds of Danson Park with its beautiful lake - or East Wickham Open Space with its abundance of wildlife - to name just two? A full list of the borough’s parks can be found at www.bexley.gov.uk/parks

always on the look-out for volunteers to help keep the borough’s parks beautiful and welcoming. Although their activities have had to be curtailed at times, they would love to hear from you and keep you up-to-date with any voluntary work as and when it is possible.

Contact information is available at www.bexley.gov.uk/friends-group

2 If cycling is your thing, there are some popular routes

within the borough and nearby - all risk assessed by British Cycling. Free maps and descriptions are available for download from www.letsride.co.uk/routes

5 You can also join our

growing number of Parks Volunteer Service (PVS) volunteers who are helping our Parks and Open Spaces team keep the borough’s lovely green spaces litter free, Our thanks go out to them for doing such a superb job in a difficult time, it is greatly appreciated!

Contact susan.urpeth@ bexley.gov.uk

3 This year an extra 32

new allotment plots have been created across Bexley to help meet demand, giving the borough over 2,100 plots in total. There are waiting lists for all sites but the Council is looking at ways to creating more where possible. Find out more about allotments at www. bexley.gov.uk/allotments

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6 Bexley Healthy Walks are

led by qualified and friendly volunteer walk leaders. We hope that regular group walks will be able to resume by Easter, so keep an eye on their website for updates at www.walkingforhealth. org.uk/walkfinder/bexleyhealthy-walks or contact the Leisure Services Team on 020 3045 4881 or email leisure@bexley.gov.uk

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If you are 64 or over, or clinically extremely vulnerable, you can now book your COVID-19 vaccine directly

If you are aged 64 and over, or at high risk of getting seriously ill from coronavirus you can now book directly for your Government-approved vaccine

You can book an appointment at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or call 119 for free

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all our yesterdays

The past of our parks Our borough is blessed with over 100 public parks and open spaces. You may not be aware, but some of these were the grounds of the various grand houses built by the gentry in bygone centuries.

Frank’s Park was laid out in the grounds of the home of Francis Beadle in Erith. Beadle was the owner of Beadle Brothers, the coal merchants and sometime Chairman of Erith Council.

Danson Park, on the boundary between Bexleyheath and Welling, was laid out by Nathaniel Richmond, a disciple of Capability Brown, to provide a suitable rural setting for the magnificent Palladian villa of Sir John Boyd, the wealthy West Indian plantation owner.

At the other end of Bexleyheath, there are the grounds of Hall Place, the Tudor mansion built by Sir John Champneys around 1540.

They stretch from Watling Street in the north down to the house itself, beside the Cray in Old Bexley and along the riverbank to Crayford.

In the south of the Borough, Foots Cray Meadows was the site of Foots Cray Place, the home of Nicholas Vansittart, Lord Bexley, the long-serving Chancellor of the Exchequer. He also owned the neighbouring North Cray Place, on the south bank of the River Cray.

The two houses were linked by the famous five arches bridge designed

by Capability Brown. Sadly, Foots Cray Place burned down in 1949, while North Cray Place was demolished in 1958.

There are also some very ancient woodlands surviving in the Borough. These include Joydens Wood, where you can still see the remains of a Saxon defensive dyke, Bexley Park Wood along the banks of the Cray in Old Bexley, and Abbey Wood above the ruins of Lesnes Abbey.

Danson Park and Mansion

Hall Place

Bexley Park Woods

Lesnes Abbey Gardens

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Abbey Wood

During the lockdown these parks and open spaces have been particularly popular as a place for people to exercise. While many are still recovering from the short and inclement days of winter, the days are now getting longer. Spring is in the air and we will soon see crocuses, followed by daffodils and bluebells. All these flowers can be found in the numerous parks and open spaces of the Borough, a short walk from your home.

The more adventurous residents might also try using our free Bexley walking app, which includes walks around Bexley Park Wood, Lesnes Abbey and Abbey Wood and between historic Hall Place, the Red House and Danson. The app is downloadable from Google play or Apple’s app store.

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.

Planning Committee 25 March, 7pm

LOCAL MPS Rt Hon James Brokenshire, MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup Surgeries are by appointment only and can be made by calling the MP’s office on 020 7219 8400.

To contact James Brokenshire MP Write to: House of Commons, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA Email: james.brokenshire. mp@parliament.uk Telephone: 020 7219 8400 Rt Hon Sir David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford

Public Cabinet 13 April, 7:30pm

Surgeries are held on the first and third Friday of the month, except in August. These take place

Council 21 April, 7:30pm

YOUR COUNCILLORS

Planning Committee 29 April, 7pm

at 17 Church Road, Bexleyheath DA7 4DD between 4pm and 6pm.

No appointment is necessary, but please do ring 020 7219 8403 in advance to discuss your case when possible.

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

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 Gareth Bacon AM (Bexley & Bromley) To contact Gareth Bacon write to: Gareth Bacon AM, Greater London Authority, City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2AA, call: 020 7983 6571, or E-mail: gareth.bacon@london.gov.uk

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

Council 26 May, 7:30pm

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 www.bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777

Planning Committee 27 May, 7pm

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

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what’s on!

As the magazine went to print the Government Covid restrictions were being updated (please see page 5).

As the restrictions relax there may be an opportunity to reopen some of the sites that would usually hold events.

Sign up to our ‘what’s on’ email enewsletter at www.bexley.gov.uk/newsupdates The below are just a sample of some local websites that may feature upcoming events as they start again

Free dance sessions for over 50s and unpaid carers

Yoga with Age UK Bexley

Give yourself an hour of ‘me time’ to help take care of your health and wellbeing. Get active and shake away the stress and strain of everyday life.

These free weekly online dance exercise sessions are low pressure and adaptable, whatever your level or ability.

1-hour session each week via Zoom available until 30 March 2021.

Dance for carers Tuesdays at 11am Dance for over 50s Thursdays at 11am Sign up at

Enjoy the benefits of yoga for improved fitness and wellbeing, led by trained yoga instructor Helena.

Classes are for those aged 55 and above.

1-hour session each Monday from 10am to 11am week via Zoom To sign up call 0208 300 0883 or visit www.ageuk.

org.uk/bexley/activitiesand-events

Celebrating Bexley’s Wildlife

www.danceforcarers.co.uk

Keep fit with Bexley Mencap

Free sessions available until 30 March 2021 Mondays 5:30pm to 6:30pm Different online activities available each week, including running, dance and boxing to help vulnerable adults keep fit and be active. Sessions are run by a qualified instructor and supported by Bexley Mencap volunteers.

To join call 020 8303 6336 or visit

Danson Park, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HL Sunday 6 June A festival/fair organised by the Friends of Danson Park, supported by other Bexley Friends Groups and local environmental groups.

This free event will include stalls, guided walks, virtual presentations and activities for children.

Further details will be on

www.facebook.com/ FriendsofDansonPark and RSPB and BWT Facebook pages from 1 April

www.bexleymencap.org. uk/our-services/keep-fitgroup

Online updates

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www.bexley.gov.uk/events

www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-libraries www.facebook.com/DansonAdventure www.hallplace.org.uk www.leisurecentre.com www.theexchangeerith.com/events www.nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house www.crossness.org.uk www.greatererith.com/events www.edwardalderton.org www.playhouse.org.uk www.thegwt.org.uk www.facebook.com/helloblackfen www.facebook.com/SidcupPartners www.facebook.com/BexleyheathTown www.facebook.com/progressivewelling www.thamesmeadnow.org.uk

What’s on at Lesnes Abbey

Lesnes Abbey Woods, New Road SE2 0AX

Themed walks

We have three different themed walks: Active (blue wayfinder) takes a couple of hours and takes in most of the woods.

Learn (yellow wayfinder) is a shorter walk that guides you round the key historic features in the park.

Explore (green wayfinder) - will take you into the woods and heathland.

For more information email lesnesabbey@

bexley.gov.uk

Your Digital Library is open 24/7

You can access lots of library services anytime from the comfort of your own home - including books, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers! All you need is your library card and PIN, an email address and an internet enabled device, such as a PC, tablet or smartphone.

www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-libraries @whatsoninbexley

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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

How do I?

Automated payments – 020 3045 5200

Contact the police when it is not an emergency on 101 or 0300 123 1212

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 4900

100 + services online Seven days a week + 24 hours a day l Apply - Pay – Find - Report

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 Bureaux – 01322 517150 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

Worried about a child? Call 020 8303 7777 and ask for Safeguarding Children’s Services. In an emergency always call 999.

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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 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 Barnehurst Yoga Club 0771 222 6261 Barnehurst & Ivor Thomas Pool League davidleeds452@btinternet.com Belvedere Art Group 01322 556876 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 Borough Pensioners Forum 01322 527097 Bexley Boys & Girls Hall 020 8858 5123 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

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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 Philatelic Society (Bexley Stamp Club) 01322 559210 Bexley Photography Chatter Community www.BexleyPhotographyChatter.co.uk Bexley Rotary Club bexleyrotaryclub@gmail.com Bexley Rugby Football Club www.bexleyrugby.co.uk 07791 127331 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 www.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 VCD Crayford 01322 446625 / 07955 470762 Bridge Mental Health 020 8298 9677 Bridging the Gap South East 020 8300 5444 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 Crayford & District Men’s Probus Club 020 8304 2802 Crayford Camera Club 01322 438808 Crayford Judo Club 01322 631108 Crayford Manor House Historical Society 01322 551279 Crayford Town Archive 07800 992931 Crayford Women’s Institute 01322 557229 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 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 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.friendsoftheshuttle.org Family Action 020 8310 6570 Geddes Place Widows Group 01322 521754 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 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.lacv.btck.co.uk 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 Norfolk Women’s Club (Sidcup) 07765 428569 North West Kent Family History Society www.nwkfhs.org.uk 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 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 Association Sidcup 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 Debt Advice 020 8269 8621 Sidcup & District Caledonian Association Scottish Country Dancing 020 8856 4522 Sidcup & District Motor Cycle Club 01634 201268 Sidcup and District University of the Third Age 020 8850 2046 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 Philatelic Society 020 8300 9627 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 Trefoil Guild - Invicta (Welling) 020 8304 8409 / 01689 811116 United Nations Assoc (Bexley) 01322 335 479 University of the Third Age Abbey Wood & Thamesmead 020 8311 4797 University of the Third Age Bexley 07946 377898 Veterans Club of Bexley 020 8304 2815 Victim Support (Bexley) 020 7277 1433/ 020 8698 4583 Volunteers Information Service (VIS) 01322 335 479 Welling Being Link 07895 143939 Welling University of the Third Age 020 8304 4130 Women’s Aid Helpline 020 8301 1536

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News If you are Black or Asian, and over the age of 60, we are here to help you support you to stay fit and healthy The impact of Covid-19 has been huge on BAME communities in Bexley and it has never been more important to keep on top of your health and do physical exercise.

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Bexley Civic Offices, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT Monday –Saturday 9am –7.30pm Sunday 11am –4.30pm