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SCHOOL LIFE

SCHOOL LIFE

About us

South Leeds Life is written by and for local people. People who live, work and play in the LS10 and LS11 areas of South Leeds. The website and newspaper are produced by South Leeds Life CIC, a social enterprise registered with Companies House, No 9998695. South Leeds Life is a member of the Independent Community News Network.

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To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community; To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences; To foster community spirit and involvement; and To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully. South Leeds Life is pleased to publish views from across the political spectrum, provided they comply with our editorial guidelines. We remain a neutral publication with a diverse readership, as such we do not endorse any particular political party.

Contact us

South Leeds Life CIC 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW Email: info@southleedslife.com Facebook & Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife Phone: 07894 583966

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South Leeds Life is regulated by IMPRESS and adheres to its standards code. However, if you feel we have breached the code in any way and wish to make a complaint, please submit your complaint, in writing to the editor. A copy of our complaints policy is available via our website at southleedslife.com/complaintsprocedure, or on request.

Drysalters pub saved from demolition, again

The Drysalters pub on the Ring Road near the Cottingley Hall estate has been saved from demolition, again.

A Planning Inspector has dismissed the developer’s appeal after Leeds City Council rejected their planning application to demolish the pub and build a drivethrough coffee shop.

In his report the Inspector, C Coyne, agreed that the loss of the pub would have a “harmful social impact” on residents of the Cottingley Hall estate, football fans and mourners attending Cottingley Crematorium. He also found the plans would harm a number of mature trees on the site.

Hayley Guy, one the Save The Salters campaign organisers told South Leeds Life: “It’s great news for the pub, and after the couple of years we have had with the pandemic, I’m glad it has survived.”

Councillor Andrew Scopes (Beeston & Holbeck) commented:

“I welcome this news and it is nice to get the good news before Christmas! I would like to thank everyone who formally objected to the proposals. However, unfortunately, there is always a future risk with this kind of property and I understand that the current landlord is on a short term lease and so it is possible that the building could be intentionally wound down further and a future application again resubmitted with the aim to request local/public opinion be reassessed.

“I would therefore encourage local groups to consider putting the Drysalters forward as a ‘Asset of Community Value’. This is something that needs to be community led, but do get in touch if you want to talk further about this.”

We first reported on the plans in September 2020 when the first planning application was submitted. A Save The Salters group quickly sprang up online and over 50 letters objecting to the plans were sent to the Council. The planning application was refused by officers later that month.

However, the developers then submitted a second application in November 2020 with additional evidence about the market conditions. But once again planning officers rejected the application having commissioned their own report on market conditions from the District Valuer.

The developers then appealed the decision to the Planning Inspectorate and the Inspector has now published his decision, ruling in favour of the Council and the campaigners.

The pub is still very much open hosting regular punk rock gigs and hot food in the evening Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Developers plans to demolish the The Drysalters pub in Beeston have been quashed

Holbeck call centre site bought for redevelopment

Stamford Property Holdings and Shelborn Asset Management have bought the prime ‘Westbank’ site in Holbeck from Lloyds Bank and plan to redevelop it.

The four acre site, off Water Lane and next to Bridgewater Place, is currently occupied by a three-storey call centre, originally built for The Halifax.

The purchaser was represented by Knight Frank, while the vendor was represented by CBRE and JLL.

Eamon Fox, Partner and Head of Office Agency at Knight Frank in Leeds, commented:

“This is the best development site to be offered to the market this year in the flourishing city of Leeds – bar none, thanks to its size and location. This is tremendous news for the city.

“Situated in the heart of Leeds’ South Bank regeneration area, Westbank is 350 meters south of Leeds Railway Station and offers direct access to the M621 and superb national motorway network.

“The surrounding area is a popular office location with nearby occupiers including ASDA, KPMG, BT and Yorkshire Building Society. Leeds has seen significant regeneration over the past decade and the planned redevelopment of the South Bank will double the size of Leeds city centre in the next ten years.”

Brian Rabinowitz, Director at Shelborn Asset Management, explained that he was very excited about the purchase of such a significant site in the heart of the city of Leeds, where there was such a shortage of new build office stock within the city and the demand for space was clearly outstripping supply.

Uri Goldberg, Director at Stamford Property Holdings, commented:

“We are delighted to be partnering with Shelborn on this exciting redevelopment opportunity. We look forward to working collaboratively with Leeds City Council to deliver a world class mixed use scheme with excellent environmental credentials at its core.”

Josh Morris, Investment Partner with Knight Frank in London, added:

“We are pleased to have acted on behalf of Stamford and Shelborn on their purchase of Westbank, Leeds. The transaction represented an unrivalled opportunity to acquire a flagship site in the heart of Leeds’ major regeneration hub and to be part of the creation of a new community in the city.

“Leeds offers a diverse and robust economy, home to 20 FTSE 100 companies, over 100,000 students and a workforce of 1.9 million people. A major commercial and financial centre for Yorkshire and the North East of England, investment into the city remains strong and confidence is high.”

The Leeds offices of Knight Frank and CBRE have been retained as letting agents for the scheme.

Pledge your Climate Change resolutions for 2022

South Leeds Life is proud to be co-launching a new local campaign for 2022, for south Leeds people to pledge to take action on climate change.

Run in association with the 'Our Future Beeston' group (but open to anyone in LS10 or LS11), the campaign - called the 'South Leeds Climate Pledge' - will profile local people throughout the year who are taking new steps to be more planet-friendly in their own lives, and work with others to do the same.

We are already in touch with a fantastic array of people who are putting themselves forward for the pledge, and will be releasing the first pledges in the coming weeks.

Different people are focusing on different issues, but their pledges will centre upon how they plan to change their habits, and also the operation of the organisations and groups they are part of, in 2022.

Actions will include: choosing more sustainable forms of transport, or opting out of carbon-heavy transport like flying altogether; making their diet more eco-friendly; changing their use of energy, and/or getting into home insulation; reducing consumption; investing (time or money) in green initiatives; and much more.

And we'd love YOU to become involved too! The campaign is open to anyone who lives, works or plays in LS10 or LS11. Get in touch for more information, or just go ahead and submit a portrait photo of yourself, your name and contact details, and a quote with your thoughts on climate change, and what steps you pledge to take (up to 50 words).

We are especially keen to gather in and use these portrait photos and quotes, to build awareness of climate action in the local area, and inspire others to also get involved.

To find out more, or to sign up, contact us anytime in the coming year: email info@southleedslife.com, contact us on social media, or write to Climate Pledge 2022, c/o South Leeds Life, 224 Cross Flatts Grove, LS11 7BW.

Our partner organisation 'Our Future Beeston' - is a locally-led community project working within the Leeds-wide 'Climate Action Leeds' coalition: climateactionleeds.org.uk.

Whether or not you participate in this campaign, new people are always welcome to join the group. Note that although 'Our Future Beeston' focuses on Beeston, this campaign is open to everyone in south Leeds.

Cllr Angela Gabriel in deselection shock

Cllr Gabriel pictured on a recent visit to at Cottingley Primary Academy by Jeremy Morton

Beeston & Holbeck Ward will have a new Councillor next May after the local Labour Party chose Annie Maloney to fight the seat in place of sitting Councillor, Angela Gabriel.

South Leeds Life understands that it is normal practice in the party for sitting Councillors to be reselected ‘on the nod’. However, party rules allow for a selection contest and a group of members in the Beeston & Holbeck branch won the vote to hold a contest.

No one I spoke to was prepared to speak on the record, but as I understand it, no matter of policy or behaviour was raised by those voting against Angela Gabriel.

Angela Gabriel has served as a Leeds City Councillor for 25 years, having won a by-election in the old Beeston Ward in November 1996, when Jon Trickett became an MP. She has successfully defended her seat in seven elections since then. She is the Chair of the Inner South Community Committee and will continue as a Councillor up to the May elections.

The Labour Party candidate in the May 2022 election, Annie Maloney, is the daughter of Mirelle Midgley, a Councillor for Kippax & Methley Ward.

Councillor Gabriel told South Leeds Life: “I’m very proud to have served this community for 25 years as a Councillor. I had intended to serve one more four year term, but that’s politics. I shall continue to be involved in community projects such as Beeston In Bloom and Beeston Festival.”

City Council launches budget consulation

Public consultation on Leeds City Council’s annual budget proposals to deliver an estimated £65.4 million savings in the next financial year is underway.

With the city responding and adapting to changes caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, costs and demand pressures continue to rise especially in services providing care for vulnerable children, young people and adults in Leeds as well as within services responsible for the collection and disposal of the city’s waste.

The 2022/23 budget proposals include a proposed council tax increase of 1.99% for core council tax and 1% which the government requires be dedicated for adult social care funding.

The council remains committed to protecting frontline services supporting the most vulnerable residents, with over 60% of the budget continuing to be allocated to health, adults and children’s social care.

The proposed annual budget for the forthcoming financial year 2022/23 needs to be seen in the context of the financial challenge the council has faced since 2010.

Since then the council’s annual core settlement funding from the government has reduced by £263m (or 60%), and it also follows on from the requirement to deliver £56.1m of savings in the current financial year.

Further savings are also expected to be needed in 2023/24 and 2024/25.

The online consultation survey is now live at www.leeds.gov.uk/budget, and will run until the end of Thursday 13 January.

Views and feedback will also be received from a range of stakeholders including councillors, unions, business representatives and third sector groups. Staff in councilmanaged community hubs will be able to help support people to fill in the survey.

All of the views received will be considered as part of the final budget proposals which will be discussed by the council’s executive board on Wednesday 9 February, before being debated and voted on at the full council meeting on Wednesday 23 February.

Jailed for ride out rampage

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Damien Morgan, aged 28, of Ring Road, Middleton, was given an eight-month jail term that will run consecutively to one he is currently serving for drug supply. He will also be banned from driving for 12 months upon release.

Terrence Barker, aged 29, of Acre Road, Middleton, was given suspended concurrent sentences of nine months and 11 months for both counts. He was banned from driving for 18 months and ordered to undertake 100 hours of unpaid work.

Brandon Parkin, aged 21, of Newhall Crecent, Leeds, was given a six-month suspended sentence, 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, 40 hours of unpaid work, a driving disqualification for 12 months and ordered to pay £500 costs.

Aiden Bedford, aged 32, of The Oaks, Middleton, was convicted of involvement in the second incident. He received an eight-month prison sentence and will be banned from driving for 14 months upon release.

A seventh defendant was dealt with at youth court for his involvement in the second incident.

Their seized bikes and equipment, which have been held in storage for the last three years, were made the subject of a deprivation order.

Chief Inspector Kev Pickles, who heads Neighbourhood Policing for Leeds District, said:

“The dangerous and antisocial behaviour of those who took part in these so-called ‘ride outs’ was completely unacceptable.

“Both incidents happened over significant distances on public roads in busy urban areas at a weekend and put people’s safety at risk and unnecessarily caused fear to members of the public who encountered them.

“We can never allow this kind of illegal activity that impacts on people’s lives to go unchallenged and we will always look to identify and take robust action against those involved.

“As a result of some painstaking investigate work by officers from the Leeds South Neighbourhood Policing Team, the majority of those who took part were identified and charged.

“They have now had to face the consequences of their actions, and we hope this successful outcome will provide some reassurance to our communities and also send a clear deterrent message to those who unwisely choose to involve themselves in incidents like this. “The anti-social use of motorbikes is an issue that we continue to work closely alongside our partner agencies to address. “We have specialist off-road bike officers who patrol hotspot areas to support the work of local neighbourhood officers and we regularly seize bikes and issue warning notices as well as taking other enforcement action in conjunction with Leeds AntiSocial Behaviour Team. “We also work with schools and other young people’s organisations to raise awareness of the risks this activity creates for both the riders and members of the public. “We encourage people to report any incidents, particularly if they have specific information about known individuals who are involved, so that we can take appropriate action.” People can report off-road bike issues online using the West Yorkshire Police website www.westyorkshire.police.uk/ form/report-nuisance-bikes Councillor Debra Coupar, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for resources, said: “The behaviour of this particular group of individuals in riding so recklessly through the pedestrianised areas of the city centre and on many busy roads was extremely dangerous and completely unacceptable.” “We will not tolerate antisocial behaviour of any kind in Leeds and working in partnership with the police and others we will strive to make sure there are consequences from people willingly engaging in this type of activity. “I am pleased to see that firm action has been taken in this instance and would hope that it deters people from taking part in this type of criminal activity in future.” Jailed: Daniel Brook

Beeways: loving and using Beeston footpaths

by Ian Waterhouse

Team Beeston is a group of people from local churches, community groups and schools who work with Leeds Citizens to campaign for positive change in the community.

We have been listening to stories of local people and are working together for the footpaths in Beeston to be improved.

The stories come from adults and children, families, and individuals.

From these stories we are concerned that paths are not only adopted by the City Council, but are also well maintained and wide enough to be widely used for accessing schools, shops, and homes.

We wish users to have safe and easy access with surfaces suitable for all, especially those with prams, buggies, and wheelchairs.

The picture indicates the kind of problems which can be encountered when travelling these paths.

We also know that using the paths more is better for our health because it means being able to walk away from roads with heavy traffic and pollution and avoid making short car journeys.

The points are made by Leeds City Council in their own Connecting Leeds Transport Strategy. Council Leader James Lewis states “the journey starts with local areas. Creating healthier streets that are safer, greener and accessible to all and delivering local schemes will be a priority.”

Cllr Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Infrastructure and Climate goes on to say “people are already reducing shorter car trips by walking, wheeling, or biking. We will also work tirelessly, to continue conversation with residents and businesses to support our ambitions.”

To help with this we want you to be involved:

Please tell us your story of using an off-road footpath in Beeston. We are gathering stories and the things we would like to happen as a result to present at a meeting in February to which Council officers and local councillors will be invited.

If you have a story please email: beestonteam@gmail .com and we will provide a template letter so that all our stories are recorded in the same format. Please also indicate if you would like to attend the meeting and we will get back to you with details.

Team Beeston is campaigning for footpaths to be maintained

New road crossing for Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy

Anew zebra crossing is to be installed on St George’s Road close to the new Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy.

The new crossing will replace the existing pedestrian refuge and be on a raised speed table. No waiting at any time restrictions will be applied to a stretch of St George’s Road to the south of the crossing and the access road to the school and the St George’s Centre car park.

The works are being undertaken as a condition of the school’s planning permission. The report from Highways officers states that the scheme is anticipated to have the following benefits: • Introduction of accessible formal crossing points situated on a flat top traffic calming feature, providing a safer passage for cyclists and all pedestrians, especially those with mobility issues, disabled people, parents supporting pushchairs and young and old people. • Greater independence and choice for children travelling to and from school using more sustainable modes of travel. • Make it more pleasant to walk or cycle, thus encouraging a healthier lifestyle. • Improve quality of life for the local community. • Remove unsafe parking in the vicinity of the school and crossing points, improving the visibility for pedestrians wishing to cross and drivers approaching the waiting pedestrians is enhanced, thus improving crossing safety; • Introduction of a Parking Places Order in the car park for St Georges Centre for a “park in marked bays” restriction to prevent indiscriminate parking as a result of the extra traffic for the school; and • The amendment of traffic calming features will further assist in slowing driver speeds thus improving the road environment for all road users.

The changes are subject to a traffic regulation order which will be advertised shortly, but if no objections are received the works will go ahead and are expected to be completed by March 2022.

Winners announced for Leeds Quality in Care Awards

South Leeds was well represented as unsung heroes from across Leeds adult care sector were celebrated last month at the Leeds Quality in Care awards.

The annual Leeds Quality in Care awards celebrated the excellent work taking place across the sector and shone a light on those individuals and services that have made a real difference over the past two years.

Representing the excellence throughout the Leeds adult care sector, the award winners and finalists have all strived above and beyond in ensuring Leeds is an age friendly city.

There were 10 awards in total which were presented at a ceremony live streamed from The Carriageworks Theatre.

Magdalena Duzniak, who leads on end-of life care at Pennington Court Care home in Beeston won the Nursing home nurse of the year (sponsored by the University of Leeds). Magdalena is determined to make this time as comfortable and calm for patients as possible. She is passionate about her profession and goes out of her way to be supportive of all that cross her path, including student nurses, care workers and families.

The South Leeds Recovery Hub in Beeston won the Most Innovative approach to supporting independence choice and Control (jointly with the Leeds City Council Skills Reablement Service). The hub is an excellent example of inclusive working across Leeds, producing lots of new and innovative ideas and solutions to aid customers return home, giving them independence, control and choice. Within the hub multi—disciplinary teams collaborate excellently together and all show a shared commitment to their customers.

People Matters, based in Holbeck, won the award for Most inclusive service provision. People Matters has an outstanding commitment to innovation and providing an inclusive service, which is open to all adults across Leeds who have a disability and/or facing challenges in their lives. Having achieved the ‘Disability Confident Leader’ recognition further highlights this commitment.

Councillor Fiona Venner, executive member for adults and children’s social care and health partnerships, said:

“The Quality in Care Awards represent the excellent level of service provided across the adult care sector in Leeds. I would like to personally thank all the finalists for going above and beyond in delivering excellent care for their customers. It has undoubtedly been a tough 20 months for the sector and I hope this award ceremony allowed individuals and services to reflect back on the amazing things they have achieved.”

Other winners were: • Paid care or support worker of the year: Helen Smith • Volunteer of the Year: Mrs Feenan and Karen Winterburn (Seacroft Grange) • Registered Manager of the Year: Lisa Monaghan (St Anne’s) • Best Recruitment and Retention initiative: Home Instead Senior Care (Wetherby) • Outstanding Contribution to Social Care: Cyd Akrill MBE (Seacroft Grange Care Village) • Digital innovation to support independence: Beech Hall Care Home (Anchor)

L-R: Gail Lawton (Finance Director, Westward Care); Magdalena Duzniak (Clinical Lead at Pennington Court), Peter Hodkinson (Managing Director, Westward Care), Lisa Heaton (General Manager Pennington Court), Vince Hart (Director of Operations, Westward Care)

NEWS IN BRIEF

Leeds reduces the cost of evening burials

Leeds City Council has lowered the cost of evening burials by reducing the price for lighting from £500 to £188. Graveside burials are available up to 8pm every single day of the year except for Christmas Day. Cllr Salma Arif, executive member for public health and active lifestyles said: “I am delighted that we have a found a solution to reduce the cost of lighting for our residents. Certain faiths require a burial to take place quickly, often the same day.”

Property firm supports vaccine programme

A Leeds-based property investment company, Aspen Woolf, has begun donating 10% of all its service fees towards tackling vaccine inequality in lower-income countries. Oliver Ramsden, Director at Aspen Woolf, said: “We believe that none of us will be free from the virus until we are all free. As such, we are proud to be joining the WHO Go Give One Campaign.”

New Spinks distribution centre

Beeston-based Spinks, the components division of bedmaker Harrison Spinks, has launched a distribution centre it continues to grow. The new 35,000 sq ft distribution centre at Millshaw will be used for the storage of finished goods and raw materials to enable Spinks to fully utilise the manufacturing space in its existing Leeds factories. Spinks’ wire drawing lines will also move from Leeds to Scunthorpe.

Lifetime Achievement Award for Tahira Khan

Hundreds if not thousands of people in Beeston and Holbeck will know Tahira Khan, having received her help and advice or attended an event she has organised.

Now the unsung hero has been recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Leeds City Council.

Tahira has been helping residents with a wide range of issues from welfare benefits to immigration, since she joined the Council in 1983. Now a Senior Community Development Officer, she is still as passionate about helping people as she ever was.

As well as welfare benefits and immigration she helps people through the bureaucracy of housing and education applications whose forms can be difficult to navigate, especially if English isn’t your first language. Beyond advice, she has helped women fleeing domestic abuse, helped people access ESOL (English as a second or foreign Language) classes and organised summer trips for families who might not otherwise get a holiday.

She was nominated for the award by her manager Diane Coombes who said: Tahira Khan outside St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck

“Tahira will go out of her way to help the community with their enquiries. During the pandemic Tahira set up a WhatsApp group so that her clients could still contact her and share forms with her so she could check them.”

She also cited an incident when Tahira was helping a woman fleeing domestic violence. The woman’s husband turned up demanding to see her. Tahira organised for the woman to be picked up by Sahara Refuge from the office window whist she kept the husband talking in reception until the Police arrived.

Tahira, who splits her week between St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck and Dewsbury Road Community Hub, received her award at an online ceremony on 14 December. Accepting the award she said:

“I am very proud to work for Leeds City Council. It is my passion to help people when they are in crisis and need my help. I have a very soft nature and don’t like to say no to anybody.”

Swapshop group is saving waste & money

by Rebecca Townesend

Are you fed up of tripping over that leftover roll of carpet? Do you need the space in your attic that is full of half emptied paint pots?

Maybe you are in need of some new bedroom furniture or want get your back yard ready for summer. Then you need to join the LS10 and LS11 CRAP (Conserving Resources Associating People) Facebook Group!

Since February 2021 over 3,000 people have joined this group to take part in free exchanges of a huge variety of items ranging from clothes, wrapping paper, items for pets, sofas, garden rubble, DVDs, candles, toys, kitchenware, tables, handbags and much, much more. As the group admins explain:

“It's a great way to save money, help one another, and help protect the planet.”

I spoke to some of the participants to find out what this exchange group has meant to them.

Alesha has met some “amazing people…and even made some lasting friends.” Shaz agrees she has “met some amazing people.”

Since moving in the autumn Brandon has had help from the group; someone provided him with a bed with someone else delivering it. He has also provided some items himself for a family in need. He told us

“I’m proud of this group, the people who set it up and the other amazing people within it … people can be nice and nice people are what you find in south Leeds.” He says he has “this group to thank for some of the changes I have made (since moving).”

Brandon has also provided some soft toys to another user, Michelle. Since a serious accident she has been bedbound for the majority of the time and “she loves cute things around me”. The teddies also support her mental health and “help keep me calm” and she is very grateful.

Another user told us that she has had “some really nice people help me.” She has a health condition which means she can’t get out much and she is a single parent claiming

Digital Health Hubs launch

by Ken Ingram

Middleton Elderly Aid in partnership with 100% Digital have opened a Digital Health Hub for the over 60s in Middleton. The Hub has a focus on health, but not exclusively so.

Service Users can attend the hub to develop their digital skills in any area that they choose.

There is currently a tablet lending scheme running, whereby a computer tablet can be loaned for a trial period with a view to purchasing the equipment at cost price.

The Neighbourhood Network also runs a Computer Class every Thursday between 1–2:30pm. Equipment is available to use on site. One to one digital support can also be accessed.

So if you need help with online prescriptions or you would like to know how to shop online Middleton Elderly Aid can help.

A Games/Activities afternoon will take place at Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road, LS10 4LF on 20 January 2022 between 1.30-3.30pm. Feel free to drop in. Refreshments will be provided.

Getting to grips with the online world at Middleton Elderly Aid

Universal Credit and the help she and her children have had has really helped. Recently she has received some Christmas decorations after some of hers went missing and she has some toys ready for her children on Christmas Day.

The group has also helped local community organisations too. Ian from the Cross Flatts Park Bowling Club has “received some advertising banners from a lovely lady to help promote the local bowling club in the park which are currently on display on the fences around the bowling green.” Badger needed a new project during summer 2020 and was gifted some pallets for a garden bench he was building. He subsequently got an animal hutch for some chickens who joined his home. Whilst preparing his front yard for the new arrivals he gave away his barbecue and some flagstones and the chickens have become part of local food recycling – during Halloween they tucked into leftover pumpkins!

Ed Carlisle is a co-founder and admin team member for LS10 and LS11 CRAP and he told us: "It's inspiring to see an evergrowing number of people locally, and everywhere getting passionate about reuse and recycling…we save money, connect with new people, and help save the planet as we go. Our CRAP group is hopefully playing its part in that movement, towards a happier and more sustainable future. Thanks to everyone who's helped make it such a success."

Shaz summed up the value of the group:

“…the group has proven how in need people are in the community. It’s amazing how people will rush to help but just shows how much help is needed due to financial cuts in so many places like Universal Credit and job losses due to Covid … as the saying goes someone else’s trash is someone else’s treasure” and as Naseem commented “It feels great to see someone appreciate being gifted something you’ve not used for years.”

Find the Facebook group here: bit.ly/LS11CRAP

White Rose honours community champions

Community heroes celebrated by White Rose Shopping Centre

White Rose Shopping Centre honoured local heroes from across Leeds at its annual Community Awards on 9 December.

The awards celebrate people and organisations working hard to benefit their local community. This year’s winners include: • South Leeds charity Re:establish, which is committed to the development and nurturing of people’s social, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs and offers a safe space to the community through its art, cooking, and sporting activities • Ruby Sheldon and Emily Beasley, participants in White Rose’s Made in South Leeds competition, who helped raise £950 through their sustainable, environmentallyfriendly water bottles

• Hannah Cockroft MBE, seven-time Paralympic Champion and White Rose’s Accessibility Ambassador • Matt Tune, Operations Manager at White Rose, who is not only responsible for keeping the centre and its grounds in tip-top shape but is also Head Beekeeper at the centre. Matt, a proud member of the British Beekeeping Association, is responsible for ensuring White Rose’s hives of bees are happily buzzing each year • A special nod to the centre’s Essential Retailers which continued trading safely and securely through the early pandemic and national lockdowns. Teams pulled together to deliver exceptional service to guests making their essential trips, with many going above and beyond to bring smiles to faces – such as Superdrug White Rose, which became a TikTok sensation

Handcrafted glass trophies awarded to each winner have been designed by students at Cockburn School, and created by its Glass Room. The brief for 2021 was ‘Frontline Heroes’, and students were asked to design artworks commemorating the selfless, ongoing work by people caring for others through the pandemic.

Steven Foster, Centre Director at White Rose Shopping Centre, said:

“Especially during these unusual times, it’s important to recognise the great and altruistic work that people are doing in our wonderful city. We’re pleased we can do our part to celebrate the actions of our community.”

Women’s workshops explore health issues and domestic violence

by Tahena Ahmed

Asha Neighbourhood Project organised three workshops relating to Covid19, Cancer and End of Life Care in December.

The awareness sessions helped us talk about health issues, domestic abuse and safeguarding, supporting change, celebrating survivors, and learn about those who have tragically lost their lives to Covid-19, domestic violence and cancer.

Participants learned about signs and symptoms, NHS screening, ways to reduce risk, how to get a check if someone has Covid-19, NHS Covid-19 pass, Self-isolation and treatments for Covid-19, using the NHS and other Health services, the importance of early detection, different types of domestic abuse, what is healthy relationship, organisations that can help with domestic abuse.

The participants discussed their choice of life care plans for self and for loved ones, the importance of comfort and dignity, support for family and loved ones and a holistic approach to care.

One of the women who attended said:

“When I had one of my breasts removed I felt it was the end of life for me. I felt less women. But now I feel blessed my cancer was detected early for me to get help and information. I have not been able to find any support group for ethnic minority women suffering from cancer in Leeds.”

Despite the cold dark days of winter when everything slows down and becomes quiet, 17 women joined an event hosted jointly by the Asha Neighbourhood Project and Health For All, members of the Better Together Partnership, as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and to celebrate Human Rights Day. The event took place in Cross Flatts Park on Friday 10 December 2021.

Tea and cakes were offered by the café workers at The Bridge Cafe. Attendees participated in a domestic abuse awareness quiz, helping to recognise signs of domestic abuse and information was given about organisations that work with people suffering domestic abuse.

Participants enjoyed taking part in art and craft activities including henna art. They discussed issues related to the quiz, human rights and how another lockdown or restrictions could impact on mental health.

One local resident commented:

“I have been feeling lonely and depressed. It was so lovely getting the opportunity to sit with women that I have seen walking but never approached. I have learned so much by just talking with each of them.”

If you or someone you need help or advice please contact: • Leeds Domestic Violence 24 hour Helpline on (0113) 246 0401 • National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0800 2000 247 • National Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327

Arm in Arm Walking Group’s Christmas Lunch at Bike Park

by Ken Ingram

The famous Arm in Arm Walking Group which sets off from Middleton Elderly Aid, every Tuesday and Thursday had our first Christmas party at Leeds Urban Bike Park on 30 November 2021. We will now do this every Christmas.

Nicola suggests another party at Easter next year, or my thinking: the walking group’s fourth birthday next February. Maybe we could do both. Lol.

We stop off at the Leeds Urban Bike Park cafe half way round the walk for refreshments and Walters Giant Sandwich. The staff: Nicola, Joanne, Alicia, Meena, Emma, and Henri always look after us and nothing is too much trouble.

I asked Joanne about two months ago if the Cafe did Christmas Lunches, and if so could we get together and organise one. Joanne said she would ask Nicola (Manager) and get back to me. At this time I did not mention my plan to the group as the Cafe may not have been able to accommodate us. Joanne and Nicola said yes.

Between me, Carol Ely and Pat we came up with a date which allowed all of the group members who wanted to come, could do so.

So on 30 November 12 Members got together for our Christmas Lunch at The Leeds Urban Bike Park Cafe.

There is a room to the left of the Cafe, we all sat in there on a long bench, which allowed us to sit all together, it reminded me of my Beer Keller days in Leeds.

We Started with Pea and Ham soup, which was very thick and not watery. The main course was Turkey and all the trimmings.

The Turkey was just right, not dry like I’ve had on many occasions at other places. Followed by Christmas Pudding

and After Eight Mints.

Lager and Sherry was served. Hic. We pulled some Christmas Crackers, we gave all the toy tools from the crackers to Walter, MEA Centre Handyman, Staff and Volunteer at Middleton Elderly Aid.

A while ago Nicola asked the Arm in Arm walking group if they wanted to come in Fancy Dress, I also added if not, can you come with your Christmas Sweaters.

We had a competition for best Christmas Sweater, judged by Joanne and Alicia. It was won by Carol Hirst, who received a water bottle for walks. I also gave a diary to everyone.

Then I got up and made a very few seconds speech. Speeches are not really me. I thanked everyone for coming and the staff for putting on the meal. I surprised everyone by telling them that I would pay for all the meals. Because of this I asked everyone to give a large tip to the staff.

During the meal, we had plenty of Christmas songs as background music. I also asked Alicia, a couple of weeks ago who I had heard sing an Adele song, whether would sing for the party, she said yes. Well we did not expect Joanne and Nicola to get up and sing to us as well and to dance. We all sang along with the Sing Songs.

I asked for a Christmas song request, ‘Fairytale of New York’ by Kirsty MacColl and the Pogues. I think it was a good choice as now Mavis and Pat got up and joined the staff in the dancing. Poor Henri (staff)

got pulled in to dancing, not his thing, very proud of you Henri. We were allowed to stay an hour after closing. It started to get dark, and as we came in cars, I did not really want people to drive in the dark. So we thanked the staff and made our way home.

Mavis got a bottle of sherry to take home from Nicola (Manager) as Nicola said for “being Fabulates.”

Goodbye until next time. Joanne Thackray says: “Had a great day at work today Christmas dinner for Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre was so nice to have a catch up with my mums old friends. Especially Mavis Beechey and Patricia Webb we had a boogie and laughs!! Thanks to Kenneth Ingram for arranging it all with Nicola Hayes and thanks for doing all that food Alicia Stanger.

“All the staff hope you had a great time with you.”

Nicola Hayes says:

“So today we welcomed Middleton elderly aid to the cafe for their Christmas bash! team Alicia Stanger, Emma

Kellett, Joanne Thackray, Meena Beattie and Henri Dales in making their day.

“Running a business is hard work but the rewards are times like today.”

Alicia Stanger says:

“Christmas came early today! Great day at work today with some lovely people for Middleton Elderly Aid ‘s Christmas dinner! Hope you all enjoyed your party. Well done to my lovely work colleagues Henri Dales Joanne Thackray Emma Kellett Meena Beattie Nicola Hayes for also pulling this party together!

“Lovely to give to people this Christmas who may find this time lonely! Thank you to

Kenneth Ingram, for organising and choosing our lovely cafe to have your party!”

Christmas jumpers and waistcoats were on display the walking group enjoyed a three course Christmas dinner at Leeds Urban Bike Park in Middleton

Christmas events with MHA South Leeds

by Amanda Gostin

We started our Christmas Festivities on Wednesday 8 December with our members Christmas Party at the Cornmill Lodge Leeds.

Members from MHA South Leeds (formerly South Leeds Live At Home) and MHA Rothwell came together to enjoy a fabulous 3 course lunch with Turkey and all the trimmings. With a fabulous singer, and a party atmosphere, we ate, drank, danced and made merry!

We were on a roll then, and swung in to action by preparing and serving the first of our DePuy Synthes of Beeston sponsored lunches.

DePuy kindly donated a mountain of food, enough to cater for two of our Christmas Lunch Clubs, one at St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston on Thursday 9 December, and the second on Friday 10 December at St Mary’s Church, Beeston. They also supplied a gift bag for all members that attended.

Our members truly embraced the Christmas spirit, enjoying great food, entertainment and the company of others. (members were totally unaware that behind the scenes, we were battling an oven that had at this point chosen to give up the will to work!).

With the first week of our Christmas gatherings completed, we sprang into action again with week two, and a Christmas lunch for some of our members at Cottingley Community Centre on Monday 13 December.

Our staff produced a wonderful 2 course meal for the members, even though we were facing the trauma of a second non-functioning cooker in a week.

With grit and determination, we battled through like a Christmas Lunch emergency service!

Tuesday 14 December was an extremely busy day for us here at MHA South Leeds. We had the pleasure of preparing and serving a further two Christmas Lunches, one for our members residing at Crescent Grange, and the other, for our members at Arthington Court.

It has been so lovely, and heart-warming to see so many happy and appreciative faces, as they’ve appreciatively tucked in to a beautifully cooked Christmas meal. It’s amazing to look back now and to realise that a total of 260 Christmas meals have been heartily enjoyed by all.

The week before Christmas, we delivered over 60 afternoon tea boxes to members at their home on Wednesday 22 December.

We finished off our Christmas festivities, with a drop in coffee morning at St Andrew’s on Christmas Eve morning.

A final chance to spread some remaining Christmas cheer with our fabulous members, who have supported and praised us every step of the way.

I think It’s fair to say that the Christmas spirit has been thoroughly spread throughout South Leeds.

Local residents enjoy Christmas lunch at Elland Road

Holbeck Together members were hosted by Leeds United

Leeds United hosted a special Christmas event for 75 older members of the local community that are supported throughout the year by Holbeck Together.

Holbeck Together is a charity that is close to our hearts, with both the club and Foundation working with them on a regular basis across a number of projects – and it was fantastic to once again link up and support those living in the shadows of Elland Road.

The older clients in attendance at the festive lunch, hosted in the Eddie Gray suite at Elland Road, were also joined by staff from the charity, some of their trustees and MP Hilary Benn.

This is usually an annual event held at Christmas to give the clients something special to look forward to, and it was even more special this year after the club were unable to host the event in 2020 due to the Covid restrictions that were in place.

Elissa Newman, Chief Officer at Holbeck Together, said: “I’d like to say a massive thank you to Angus Kinnear and Leeds United for the generosity they have shown in supporting the local community once again.

“It was so heart-warming to see everyone together again after the pandemic, enjoying themselves, and back at Elland Road celebrating as we have done previously.”

One of the clients from Holbeck Together and also a massive Leeds United fan, Gwyneth Aylott, added:

“Today has been absolutely brilliant as usual, we had so much fun. The staff and food we’re just perfect.”

Holbeck Together was established as a Neighbourhood Network Scheme back in 1992 to support older people living in the local community. Since then the charity have massively expanded their network to provide a variety of services, activities and opportunities for people from all generations in Holbeck.

Festive food for Belle Isle

Belle Isle TMO provided festive food hampers and hot meals for nearly 100 people in Belle Isle during Christmas week.

With funding from Belle Isle TMO and Sayes - who carry out gas repairs and safety checks on behalf of Belle Isle TMO - as well as donations from Hunslet Morrisons, staff and volunteers were able to provide the hampers to low-income homes and those experiencing hardship.

Each hamper included ingredients to help prepare a traditional Christmas meal, as well as sweet treats and food cupboard staples.

Alongside hampers, Belle Isle TMO also offered a hot food collection from the GATE, their community resource centre. Belle Isle TMO, who are a social landlord to over 1,800 homes in Belle Isle, had originally planned to host a community meal for 60 people at the GATE, however due to the escalating rate of transmission of the Covid-19 virus, ensured that a hot Christmas dinner was available to take away instead.

Belle Isle TMO understands that Christmas can be a really challenging time for some people and families. BITMO’s Board members, staff and volunteers, hope that by providing the hampers and meal, it relieved some of the stress and pressure that we all often face at this time of year.

The Holbeck ‘Turkey Run’

St Luke’s Church by Steve Thompson

100 Christmas hampers were donated to struggling families

With many families struggling this year, local youth work charity Re:establish was keen to make sure the families they work with had a Christmas dinner on 25 December.

They pulled together a coalition of local organisations to make it possible. Financial support came from Councillors on the Inner South Community Committee. Who better to help organise food hampers than Slung Low who had run a foodbank through the worst of the lockdowns last year.

Donations came from Asda at Middleton and Austin’s Butchers at Earlsheaton to make sure each of 100 parcels had a turkey, a yule log and a selection box. John Sisk & Sons ensured the children had presents.

A team from the LUFC Foundation helped making up the hampers and wrapping the presents.

With 100 local families identified by Re:establish and Kidz Klub Leeds, there was just the matter of getting the parecels delivered on time.

Slung Low reassembled their volunteer driving team from the foodbank and pulled in some more drivers from Holbeck Moor FC and Temple Leeds and the Turkey Run was on! 100 Christmas Hampers and presents were delivered over two days to very grateful local families.

Light In The Darkness

Cross Flatts Park by Aerodynamics Consultants Ltd

The LS11 Christmas Lantern Festival took its show on the road again this year on Sunday 12 December. An open topped bus wound its way through the streets of Holbeck and Beeston bearing a Salvation Army brass band playing carols and led by brightly lit cycling outriders. The bus started at The Holbeck and called at St Mary’s Beeston, Rowland Road WMC, St Luke’s Church and Cross Flatts Park. At bus was met by crowds at each stop with readings from the Christmas story, carols and awards to ‘Community Superstars’ who had been nominated by their neighbours for going above and beyond. The event was organised by The Churches in Leeds 11 with support from Councillors on the Inner South Community Committee.

Recovery Runners Dock Dash

Volunteers prepared and delivered the hampers

Mince pies and medals were enjoyed by about 40 runners, walkers, volunteers and assorted elves who joined in the Christmas Dock Dash 5k hosted by South Leeds running club, Recovery Runners.

Club members contributed presents for the Lineham Farm Children’s Charity Christmas appeal, dropping them off at The Glass Box where the club meets on Sundays at 10am. Club founders Dean Smith and Jamie Heselden were delighted at the turnout and collection commenting:

“We were glad so many people were able to come and run in a safe and socially distanced manner in these hard times.” Dean Smith and Jamie Heselden show off the gifts donated by runners

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