Southwark Life - Winter 2015

Southwark

Winter 2015

Revitalising our neighbourhoods Check out the new Camberwell Library and find out the next steps for the Aylesbury

Giving back Helping others in your community

To market, to market Why we love Southwark’s markets, past and present

Special offer on tickets for The View from The Shard Your magazine from Southwark Council

Blooming marvellous We talk to Fiona Sim, CEO of Walworth Garden, about their work and their plans for Christmas

www.southwark.gov.uk

Intro

Contents Focus 4

Need to know Round up of news from around the borough

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Snow joke Everything you need to get you through the winter months

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Get energised Too much Christmas pudding? Get fit and healthy for the New Year with these top tips

10 Revitalising our neighbourhoods

We celebrate the opening of the new Camberwell Library and the next stage of plans for the Aylesbury

12 History of Southwark’s markets Find out why our markets were just as popular in the past as they are now

Life 14

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Blooming marvellous Fiona Sim, CEO of Walworth Garden tells us about their amazing work and why they’re part of the council’s SEEDS project Events calendar What’s going on this winter

18 No excuse for abuse We talk to Solace about domestic abuse

20 Helping others Find out how you can help your community

Info 22 Debt advice Tips for budgeting and getting help handling your finances

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Special offer Get 35 per cent off tickets to the View from The Shard

Winter 2015

www.southwark.gov.uk

welcome...

For the first time, Southwark’s Cabinet recently published a School Standards Report. This document looked at the performance of every primary and secondary school in the borough and tried to put each school’s performance into context.

The report looked at the improvement in our results, the prospects for education post-16 and hopefully provides some helpful information for anyone with a child at a Southwark school, or planning to send a child to one of our schools in the next few years. If you would like to take a look just search online for Southwark School Standards Report 2015 and follow the links. Let me know if it is helpful.

With winter nearly upon us it is always right to remind ourselves to keep a lookout for our more vulnerable friends and neighbours. When it’s cold please check if your neighbour needs a hand, or perhaps needs some shopping picked up. Southwark has been recognised by the World Health Organisation as an Age Friendly Borough; I think this represents the very best of Southwark and our joint commitment to make sure that whatever your age you can live a fulfilled life with dignity – and sometimes with a little help from your friends and neighbours.

Keep warm this winter, and I hope that you and your loved ones have a happy and healthy festive season and a great new year.

26 Southwark life: Tired of turkey?

Check out these alternative festive meals

27 Working at Christmas What it’s

like spending Christmas Day at work

Contact us

The Southwark Life team

Do you have something to say about Southwark Life?

Write to: Your letters, Southwark Life, Second Floor, Hub 5, Southwark Council, 160 Tooley Street, SE1 2QH or email southwark.life@southwark.gov.uk

Editor Subira Massell

On our cover is a group of children from Charlotte Sharman Primary School Photographer: Jamie Simonds The winner of the Halloween wordsearch is Teena Callanan.

All information correct at time of going to press.

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Peter John Leader of Southwark Council

Assistant editor Laura Fitzsimmons Contributors Asha Budhu, Dr Patricia Dark, Wendy Foreman, Kim Hooper, Florence Igbokwe, Miriam McGrath, Fariah Nanhoo, Nikki Spencer, Stuart Taylor, Meredith Tucker-Evans, Kate Walwyn-Jones Photography Jamie Simonds Design Whatever Design Ltd Print Headley Brothers

Keep in touch Southwark Life is a quarterly magazine and the next issue is due out in spring 2016. You can contact the magazine at southwark.life@southwark.gov.uk but for more regular updates on council news and events, follow us on social media at facebook.com/southwarkcouncil @lb_southwark

Printed on 100% recycled paper Distribution London Letterbox

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Focus

Need to know...

www.facebook.com/southwarkcouncil

Follow us on

Twitter

@lb_southwark

Free parking this Christmas To promote Small Business Saturday on 5 December, and support local stores during the run up to Christmas, the council has suspended on-street parking charges on 5, 12, 19 and 26 December. But why not give the environment a gift by choosing to cycle, walk or take the bus to your local high street instead? We’re sure Santa will thank you for it.

We’re planning to create a brand new service for council homeowners and we need your help to get it right. Have your say at www.southwark.gov.uk/ homeownerconsultation

Congratulations to Khadija Ali from Charlotte Sharman Primary School Children from Charlotte Sharman Primary School in Elephant and Castle were asked to create some festive artwork for the council’s Christmas card. Khadija Ali, aged four, is the creator of the winning design, which was chosen by Leader of the council, Cllr Peter John, and is pictured on the front cover with some of her classmates, proudly showing off their work.

Well done to you all.

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Southwark schools take another step forward This year’s provisional GCSE results show improvement across Southwark schools. The percentage of pupils gaining 5 A*-C grades at GCSE or equivalent rose to 72.5% from 71.3% in the last year, meaning that Southwark schools outperformed the national (65.8%) and London (70.4%) averages. The results will be added to a new report published by the council about school standards in Southwark. www.southwark.gov.uk/ schoolstandardsreport

Winter warmth Are you a council homeowner?

www.southwark.gov.uk

Have your say on how the council adapts to its shrinking budgets at www.southwark.gov.uk/budget

Find out what people are talking about in Southwark this winter For news and events follow us on Facebook and Twitter or find out more at www.southwark.gov.uk/enews

Winter 2015

Worried about staying warm this winter? Or maybe you know a vulnerable or older person who may need some extra support at this time of year? Age UK’s Warm and Well in Winter project is making sure older people in Southwark keep warm and well during the cold weather by distributing winter packs, containing blankets, thermos mugs, gloves, thermometers, by providing free information and advice about managing your energy bills and much more. Visit www.ageuk.org. uk/lewishamandsouthwark for more information.

Help shape The Blue

Get involved in changing the repairs service We want to pilot a new way of working with council residents in Camberwell and Peckham, bringing residents and staff together to redesign the repairs service. Have your say and get involved at www. southwark.gov.uk/resident-led

The Blue Bermondsey Business Improvement District (BID), Grosvenor and the council have joined together to ask residents and businesses in and around The Blue, SE16 for their views on the area’s future. We want to know what you like, what you don’t like and what you think needs to be improved.

iLatch A new website has launched to help you avoid rogue landlords who rip off the council by illegally subletting their council properties. The crime costs the council thousands of pounds in public money each year and can leave unsuspecting renters without homes, once the fraud team finds out. If you want to check whether a property being advertised is council owned visit www.ilatch.co.uk

The results will be used by the BID and Grosvenor to inform their work in the area.

Just visit bluebermondsey. commonplace.is click on the map and add your comments.

Winter book challenge From Monday 4 January to Sunday 27 March 2016, children and young people will be able to take part in the Winter Book Challenge; this year’s theme is winter tales. Children aged four to 11 read ten books and young people aged 12 to 17 read five books, to win stickers, Amazon vouchers or a mini tablet.

Take part at your nearest Southwark library.

Not a member of your local library? Joining is easy; visit www.southwark.gov.uk/libraries for more details.

Making Southwark an age friendly borough We want to make Southwark a place where people can age well, but to do that we need to hear from you; whether you’re 20, 40 or 80. We want to hear what you look forward to, what you find difficult about ageing and how we can make our public spaces easier for older people to navigate. Visit www.southwark.gov.uk/ageing to take part.

Do you know a community hero?

We set up the Housing Heroes Awards to honour those people in our community who go the extra mile time and time again. Whether it’s a young person, an outstanding Tenant Resident Association, an individual or an organisation get nominating and make sure they get the credit they deserve. Nominations are open until 13 December, and all those shortlisted will be invited to the awards ceremony in January, where the winners will receive a £100 prize. For more information and to nominate go to www.southwark.gov.uk/housingheroes

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Focus

Seen someone sleeping rough?

Winter 2015

Need to know

Waste not want not

The nitty gritty

Please check your recycling and refuse date changes over Christmas and New Year.

• We can’t grit all roads; we prioritise the busiest roads to reduce accidents • Residents can use any of the 183 grit bins • Visit www.southwark.gov.uk/ getgritting to see if we grit your road.

Being on the streets in winter can be really dangerous. If you’re worried about a rough sleeper near you, call the St Mungo’s Street Population Outreach Team (SPOT) on 020 7902 7941 or email streetconcern@mungos.org 24 hours a day.

Please let the team know the exact location and the time you saw the person.

Cool school • Southwark schools do their best to stay open in bad weather. To find out if your child’s school is open, call the school office directly.

Rubbish weather

Christmas cheer

Snow joke

I

There are lots of things the council and its partners are doing to keep the borough moving. From making sure traffic hotspots not covered by TfL get gritted, to a salt giveaway for local residents and making sure our rubbish collection services continue in bad weather. We’ll get out and do our bit if it’s snowy, but we can’t get to all the smaller roads in the borough, so we’re asking

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residents to lend a hand if snow or ice is forecast.

A pinch of salt Here are our top tips for clearing ice by your house or on your road: • Sprinkle salt on paths when a freeze is coming to stop them getting icy • Don’t use boiling water to melt ice as it can refreeze • If it’s snowed, put salt over the first layer of snow • The best time to put down salt is in the evening before the ice arrives

If your normal collection day is...

It will be changed to...

Friday 25 Dec

Sunday 27 Dec

Monday 28 Dec

Normal collection day

Tuesday 29 Dec

Normal collection day

Wednesday 30 Dec Normal collection day Thursday 31 Dec

Normal collection day

Friday 1 Jan

Saturday 2 Jan

Monday 4 January 2016 collections return to normal

Old Christmas trees can either be placed out for collection (stripped of any pot and decorations) for those that have a food and garden waste service or taken to a collection site at Belair Park, Peckham Rye Park, Southwark Park or the Reuse and Recycling Centre on Devon Street. We will be putting collection bins at the three parks from 2 January to 1 February 2016. You can also request a collection by emailing environment@southwark.gov.uk More waste is produced over Christmas than any other time of year, so please recycle as much as you can over the festive period.

As the cold weather sets in, we can all help keep Southwark moving t can be tricky getting around in winter, and ice and snow can cause disruption to services and problems for older or vulnerable residents.

• As long as our trucks can get around safely, our refuse and recycling collections continue as scheduled. If it snows, our street cleaning teams will clear snow from the pavements near hospitals, schools and public transport first.

Nobody likes being stuck inside during bad weather, especially at Christmas. A visitor coming around to say hello and ask if you need help with shopping or clearing pathways makes all the difference. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours, check in with them when the weather’s bad – or even when it’s not.

www.southwark.gov.uk

• Use about a tablespoon of salt per square metre • Avoid getting salt on plants and trees • Give your steps and any steep bits extra attention • Look out for salt bins; they’re for you to use on your road (our gritters only cover the busier roads).

For more information go to www.southwark.gov.uk/winterweather And don’t forget, if you’ve got elderly or vulnerable neighbours please see if they need you to help salt their paths as well.

Great salt giveaway Come and get a free 5kg bag of salt to treat your home in the case of frosty weather, plus get cold weather advice from the experts.

3pm to 4.30pm Daneville Road: Parking bay outside Morrison’s car park Saturday 12 December 9am to 10.30am Walworth Road: Loading Bay outside no. 250

Saturday 5 December

11am to 12.30pm Lower Road: Osprey Estate forecourt

9am to 10.30am Lordship Lane: Loading bay between Matham Grove and East Dulwich Grove

1pm to 2.30pm Southwark Park Road: Loading bay outside the Co-operative Food

11am to 12.30pm Half Moon Lane: Parking bay outside no. 21-25

3pm to 4.30pm Tower Bridge Road: Parking bays outside no.105

1pm to 2.30pm Rye Lane: Loading bay opposite Aylesham Centre entrance

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Advertisement

New Year resolutions that stick Tips for success

Come January, we tend to think about how we want to improve our lives in the year ahead. But how can we make changes that will really last? Dr Zoe Williams, Southwark GP and Amazon from television show Gladiators, shares her tips...

Just one

Don’t go it alone

Try to stick to one resolution. Whether it’s to get fit, quit smoking or change your diet, you give yourself the best chance of sticking to it if you put all your focus on just one area of your life.

You’re not expected to be a superhero; we all need some help to make a big change. You’re a lot more likely to succeed if you get support. For example, if you’re looking to quit smoking, you’re four times more likely to manage it if you get help from your GP or local stop smoking service. Visit www.southwark.gov.uk/stopsmoking to get started.

We all start somewhere Want to get fit but worried you’re out of shape? You’re not alone. Even making small changes to your daily routine can get you on the road to success. Just ten minutes brisk walking each day can help you feel happier, healthier and encourage you to push yourself further.

Online tools like Pacer, which counts your daily steps, can really help, while Couch 2 5k can get even a total beginner running like a pro in nine weeks. Visit www.nhs.uk/livewell/c25k

Shout about it Tell your friends and family about your goals. It makes it scarily real, but it also means you’re more likely to get support and less likely to give up. And don’t worry if you do slip from time to time; it’s a setback, not a reason to quit totally.

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Winter 2015 Winter 2014/15 Summer 2015

www.southwark.gov.uk

Fit for free From outdoor gyms to getting off the bus a stop earlier, there are many free options to help you get healthier. Visit www.southwark.gov. uk/getactive, where you can find free or low cost activities to suit you.

If improving your diet is your target, the NHS has an excellent 12 week programme available at www.nhs. uk/livewell/loseweight, along with useful ideas for how to cut down drinking. There are some great resources in Southwark, including dieticians, Shape Up and free health checks; just ask your GP.

If you’re over 60 or 18 and under, why not get your New Year started in the right way by signing up to swim and use the gym for free?

Just visit www.southwark.gov.uk/energise to get started.

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Focus

Happy one month anniversary Camberwell Library

On 4 November, the new Camberwell Library opened its doors to the public for the first time.

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ith over 27,000 new books on its shelves, Wi-Fi, e-books and a brand new children’s library surrounded by artwork from local students of Camberwell College of Arts, the new library signals our continued investment in relevant, modern and accessible facilities for the local community. Despite the cuts facing local authorities, Southwark Council continues to invest in libraries while other libraries in London have faced closure.

Did you know?

The original Camberwell Central Library, opened in 1893 on Peckham Road, was destroyed by bombing during WWII. Find out more about Camberwell’s history by checking out the beautiful historical book shelf panels at the new library.

One month on Mark Rodenhurst, manager of the new Camberwell Library, takes us through some of the highlights of the library’s first four weeks.

“Southwark’s library service is one of the busiest in London and getting the library ready for opening, from creating a programme of regular events to getting these all important books on shelves in time, was a hard

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www.southwark.gov.uk

The next chapter for the Aylesbury regeneration

task but all that planning has made for a fantastic first month.

Already we’ve been lucky enough to welcome a whole host of international best-selling authors, such as Dorothy Koomson; best-selling author of My Best Friend’s Girl and The Ice Cream Girls, American author and Orange Prize for Fiction winner Lionel Shriver, as well as former Children’s Laureate Anne Fine, whose back catalogue includes Madame Doubtfire, a book that inspired the legendary Robin Williams’ classic film Mrs Doubtfire. We’ve had a great response to the events.

It really has been wonderful to see so many people through the doors making use of all the facilities; we had 1,366 visitors on our opening day. In just a month it already feels like it’s becoming a central point for the whole community, and with our first Christmas on the horizon we are looking forward to getting our festive events underway very soon.”

The new Camberwell Library, which has replaced the old library on Camberwell Church Street, is open seven days a week. As well as state of the art facilities, it’s home to a programme of regular events and community sessions for adults and young people, including a job club, creative writing and homework clubs and a conversation café, where non English speakers can practise their English with one another.

For opening times and a full list of upcoming and regular events at the new library, please visit www.southwark.gov.uk/libraries or follow @SouthwarkLibs on Twitter.

Winter 2015 Winter 2014/15

For a list of library manager Mark’s top festive reads, keep an eye on @SouthwarkLibs for our 12 days of Christmas countdown.

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lans are due to be submitted to build a brand new library as part of the ongoing regeneration of Aylesbury. The new library will be built on the site along Thurlow Street, alongside a new GP and health centre, early years facilities, retail space including a new pharmacy, and a public square; plus around 120 new homes, half of which will be affordable at either social rents or intermediate shared ownership.

To get the Aylesbury residents thinking about the new library as part of the consultation, Creation Trust have set up a temporary ‘mini-library’ near their base at the Blue Huts, for people to share their favourite books (pictured above). Once the new library is completed, it will replace the older facility on East Street, which doesn’t have the space or capacity to offer the range of services that most modern libraries have.

A planning application from Notting Hill Housing Trust is due very soon and we hope that the new library will be open to the public early 2019.

The East Street library will remain open until then.

Work is moving ahead on other sites too such as L&Q’s Harvard Gardens development, on the junction with East Street, where construction is underway on 147 new homes, with the first new homes available in early 2016. Half of the homes on the site will be available at social rents or for purchase through shared ownership.

As well as new homes the regeneration is providing local people with jobs. Under the Development Partnership Agreement with the council, Notting Hill Housing Trust has been delivering a number of employment and training opportunities for local residents in a range of fields and professions since April 2014. So far the project has

helped 15 people into employment, four people into apprenticeships and 57 people have attended preemployment training courses or events. Most recently two apprentices were employed on the Aylesbury, on the pre-demolition soft strip work, which is currently underway on the empty Chartridge blocks.

Meanwhile in Canada Water...

British Land is working in partnership with Southwark Council to bring forward the Canada Water Masterplan. Community consultation has been key to informing the proposals so far, and topic sessions are being held throughout the coming months to help explain the planning and masterplanning process, followed by sessions on the public realm and character areas.

To get involved please contact team@canadawatermasterplan.com to register for updates or visit www.canadawatermasterplan.com for more info.

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Focus Image from Illustrated London News, 1853

Winter 2015

Fast forward to 2015, we have many markets all across Southwark, selling everything from food to antiques. If you love a bargain and fancy something a bit special, why not pop to one of Southwark’s Christmas markets?

www.southwark.gov.uk

The Blue market No other market can boast its own ice skating rink. With stalls, face painting and lots more family fun, The Blue Christmas market has it all, so get your skates on and get down to The Blue on Sunday 6 December between 9am to 5pm.

Borough Market From mulled wine to nutmeg jam, Christmas time is always extra special at Borough Market.Visit their website for more information www.boroughmarket.org.uk

Maltby Street market

Exploring the history of Southwark’s Markets 300 years ago, if you lived in Southwark, you might have had fun at a different sort of winter fair – one held in the middle of a frozen river Thames. n the 17th and 18th centuries, winters were longer and colder and the river was broader and shallower. The Thames froze over 16 times between the 17th century and the rebuilding of London

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Bridge in 1835. The most famous frost fair, described by John Evelyn, was in 1683; frozen up to 18 inches thick from late December through February, the river from Temple to London Bridge was one long shopping street and Londoners could take carriage rides, play games, and even visit pubs on the ice.

If you shop at Borough Market, you’re in good company as it’s one of the oldest markets in London, and probably dates back to before the Norman Conquest. Borough High Street was the only way in or out of London from Roman times until the 18th century, so it was an excellent place to put a food market.

Even its crowds are historically accurate; its first mention in the

historical records was in 1276, when its overspill into Borough High Street became a major traffic hazard.

East Street Market also has a long history; probably back to the 16th century, when farmers driving their livestock to Smithfield Market in the City rested them on Walworth Common (later the site of the Aylesbury estate). Specific pitches for traders only started in 1920, and before then it was first come first served, causing a scrum on market days. When you shop there you’re taking part in a tradition that reaches back decades, if not centuries. Some stalls have been in the same family for generations.

And did you know that screen legend Charlie Chaplin was born in East Street in 1889?

Another great market for the foodies, this one is open every weekend from 9am to 4pm.

From gourmet brownies to authentic Mexican food and new pop up stalls appearing almost every week, this market is ideal for anyone looking to treat their taste buds. Find out more at www.maltby.st

North Cross Road market The market will be part of the East Dulwich Christmas Cracker; an event not to be missed, with stall holders and local businesses coming together to put on a day of celebration on Saturday 5 December, from 11am to 5pm.

From live performances to activities and a treasure hunt, there is fun for the whole family.

East Street market As one of London’s oldest and largest markets, East Street has been visited by locals for decades. Whether it’s clothes, toys, food or gifts you’re after, grab yourself a bargain under the Christmas lights.

Find out the opening times at www.southwark.gov. uk/eaststreet

Druid Street market Pop down to the new food market on Druid Street in Bermondsey.

With fresh produce, innovative new products and great street food, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The market is on every Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

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Life

Winter 2015 Winter 2014/15

www.southwark.gov.uk

Walworth Garden has been described as a “mini Kew Gardens”.

CEO, Fiona Sim, explains how the urban oasis provides much needed education and training for young people and how she’s happy to muck in and fork compost when required.

Tell us about the history of the garden and how it was set up?

It was first established in 1987 when people took over a derelict plot of land to create a green space for the local community, and over the years it has evolved into a place of learning and teaching, although anyone can still pop in and enjoy the space.

You’ve recently had a name change.

Why is that?

It was called Walworth Garden Farm and people were always asking us “where are the animals?” The original aspiration was to have animals but that never happened so earlier this year we decided to change the name to make more sense. We do have bees though and this year we have sold over 100lbs of honey from our four hives.

Blooming marvellous

What makes the garden so special?

Although we are trying to raise its profile it is still a bit of a hidden gem. People always refer to it as an oasis and say how tranquil it is.

With so many people only having balconies or maybe window boxes, it has become more important than ever for people to have somewhere where they can learn about gardening and have a go themselves. We run free courses for anyone who has been a Southwark resident for at least two years. For the fifth year running we have won a Green Flag award and the judges at this year’s Britain in Bloom competition said we were like a “mini Kew Gardens” which was lovely. We have some unusual plants such as our “strawberry tree” (so called because the fruits look like strawberries) and a Judas tree.

What’s it like to work here?

It’s great to work with a team that is so passionate, enthusiastic and

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Fiona’s three favourite things in Southwark Surrey Docks Farm is a great place with a very good café. As well as animals they have a horticulture group and we learn from each other.

Café Amore on the Walworth Road has great falafel wraps and they do a nice cup of tea too. They leave the teabag in which I like.

Burgess Park is wonderful as there is so much people can do without having to get in their cars. You can cycle, walk, run, play, cook food and watch wildlife.

knowledgeable and there’s never a dull day. Even in winter we are growing winter lettuce and cabbage and making our organic compost. I muck in and help when I can. I love gardening and I’d like to do more but my job is to be out there being an ambassador for the garden and planning for the future.

Is gardening good for us?

Definitely! It’s great therapy for anybody. If you have an office job and are sitting at a computer all day, spending half an hour in the garden is a great way to unwind.

We have a Greenfingers group for vulnerable and disabled adults that runs once a week and it’s a great opportunity to make friends, build confidence and raise self esteem. We have a couple of members who have been coming ever since it started 20 years ago.

You are involved with the council’s SEEDS project to help young people into sustainable work. How did this come about?

One of our team members picked up a leaflet earlier this year and it’s

been great to work with Southwark Council on this. It is working out really well. We have had two young people through the scheme already and we hope to have another two next spring. It’s a great opportunity for them to get a level 2 diploma.

Southwark help recruit the young people and they stay for six to 12 months so you can really make a difference in that time. It fits well with our ambition which is not just to give people knowledge but to give hands on work experience to those who need some additional support to help them get into full time employment.

Any Christmas plans for the garden?

We run Christmas wreath making workshops on 12, 18 and 19 December which are really popular.

In the first week of December we also decorate our huge Monkey Puzzle tree with lights and baubles and anyone can pop in and help with that. We always welcome new volunteers of all ages.

For more information about SEEDS visit www.southwark.gov.uk/ sowandgrow

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Events calendar Christmas at the Unicorn Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street, SE1 2HZ

Baddies: the Musical 3 November to 24 December,

Sympathy of the arts

Friday 4, Saturday 5, 12 and

January 2016

19 December

10am to 6pm Admission: See website

www.slam.nhs.uk/ longgallery

www.unicorntheatre.com/whatson

Paintings by Debbie Myers-Seleman, “Painting is my peace in time, a form of tranquillity, the calm before the storm.”

For everyone aged six and above.

Fairytale villains as you’ve never seen them before. This Christmas, someone’s decided to change the fairytale rulebook and no one seems to know why. How are you supposed to tell who the good guys are when there are no baddies around?

Clown

Open daily, 3 December to 9am to 5pm £8 to £18 Maudsley Long Gallery, Main corridor, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AZ

Saturdays of the month until

Time and admission: See website www.unicorntheatre.com/whatson For ages three and above. Once upon a time there was a man and his wife who loved one another dearly, and although they were content and they lived happily there was just one thing they longed for: a child of their own.

A beautiful and inventive show that will transport you into a wintry world full of warmth this Christmas.

Once upon a Christmas 8 December to 23 December Time and admission: See website www.unicorntheatre.com/whatson For ages two to five years old Duration: Approx one hour Explore our global grotto with this fun and interactive storytelling experience that will take your little ones around the world. Create festive crafts and listen to tales of Christmases from other lands.

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www.museumofthemind.org.uk A major retrospective of Victorian artist Richard Dadd (1817-1886), who created a significant amount of work while detained as a ‘criminal lunatic’ at Bethlem Royal Hospital. Developed in partnership with the Watts Gallery.

Supported by Heritage Lottery Fund.

The Little Match Girl Sunday 13, Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 December 13 December 5.30pm, 15 and 16 December 9.45am, 11am, 1.45pm £5, £4 Southwark residents Blue Elephant Theatre, 59a Bethwin Road, Camberwell, SE5 0XT www.blueelephanttheatre.co.uk This beautiful, playful production is suitable for ages three and above, providing a perfect Christmas show for a younger audience and a joyful retelling of a winter classic.

Drama groups at Bubble Theatre Monday to Thursday evenings

26 November to 26 December 1pm, 3pm, 7.30pm, 9.15pm £20, £16 concessions, £12 previews Southwark Playhouse, 77-85 Newington Causeway, SE1 6BD www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk An immersive adventure for all the family, wielding swords, songs and music in this historical (ish) reimagining of the myth surrounding the legendary outlaw.

Your Last Breath 4 to 30 December 8pm (3.30pm matinees) £20, £16 concessions, £12 previews Southwark Playhouse, 77-85 Newington Causeway, SE1 6BD www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk Your Last Breath unravels the incredible true story of an extreme skier who was suspended between life and death in the mountains of Norway.

The Sunday Spot Every Sunday, 2pm to 4pm Free South London Gallery, Clore Studio, 65-67 Peckham Road, SE5 8UH

www.londonbubble.org.uk

www.southlondongallery.org/ whatson

After Hiroshima The Ballad of Robin Hood

Herne Hill’s annual Christmas extravaganza is sure to get your sleigh bells ringing as it serves up another festive celebration. This year’s fair, complete with haystacks and mulled wine, features lots of fun and activities as musicians entertain on a live ‘hill-billy’ stage, an enchanting (and free) Santa’s grotto, and a Christmas parade full of your favourite festive characters. You can try your hand at making your own festive tree ornaments, or just browse the stalls for the perfect Christmas gift. As part of Small Business Saturday, all 80 stalls will be run by local start-ups and small enterprises, and Herne Hill’s local independent shops will be coming out in force to demonstrate their range of quirky, high quality gifts.

(various times) Please check website for prices London Bubble Theatre, 5 Elephant Lane, SE16 4JD For ages six and above. Join a drama class at London Bubble Theatre, leaders in participatory and intergenerational theatre. Groups run for ages six and above, and include #teabreaktheatre a social group for adults.

6 February 2016, 10am to 5pm Please check website for prices.

Bethlem Museum of the Mind, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX

18 November to 3 January 2016

Saturday 5 December 11am to 5pm

www.canadawaterculturespace.org. uk/events/clown

The Art of Bedlam, Richard Dadd

www.southwark.gov.uk

Herne Hill SE24 www.hernehillforum.org.uk

Saturday shows at 11am and 2pm £7 children, £9 adults, £28 family of four. Gala night £10 Canada Water Culture Space, 21 Surrey Quays Road, SE16

An original musical theatre production based on Quentin Blake’s classic picture book, the children’s cast from Theatre Peckham bring the magical world of the CLOWN to life.

Winter 2015 Winter 2014/15

Herne Hill Christmas Fair

Friday 4 December at 7.30pm,

Wednesday to Friday, first and last

The Snow Child

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Life

26, 27, 28 February, 4, 5, 6 March 2016, matinee and evening shows (times tbc) From £9. Email Shipra@ londonbubble. org.uk to book Dilston Grove, Southwark Park, SE16 www.londonbubble.org.uk

Join us every Sunday afternoon for artist-led, playful, hands on workshops which explore themes from the current exhibition. The informal drop-in workshop is ideal for children aged three to 12 years and their parents or guardians. Check online for our current Sunday Spot artist in residence.

Babies and toddlers Father Christmas event Thursday 17 December 11am to 11.45pm Free Canada Water Library, 21 Surrey Quays Road, SE16 7AR

London Bubble’s latest intergenerational performance explores UK’s response to the dropping of the first atomic bomb, and follows the success of From Docks to Desktops and Grandchildren of the Blitz.

www.southwark.gov.uk/libraries

Heman Chong: An arm, a leg and other stories

Winter Book Challenge

11 December to 28 February 2016 11am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, open until 7pm Wednesday and last Friday of the month Free South London Gallery, Clore Studio, 65-67 Peckham Road, SE5 8UH www.southlondongallery.org/whatson A solo exhibition by Heman Chong occupying the main gallery with a series of past works and weekly performances.

We welcome families with babies and toddlers to this special Father Christmas event with stories and fun.

Monday 5 January to Sunday 27 March 2016, during library opening hours Free All Southwark libraries www.southwark.gov.uk/libraries Join the Winter Book Challenge at Southwark libraries. For children and young people aged 17 and under.

Stickers to collect, vouchers and a mini tablet to win. Find out more on the Southwark website.

East Dulwich Christmas Cracker Saturday 5 December 11am to 5pm Free Lordship Lane, North Cross Road and beyond (East Dulwich, London, SE22) www.southwark.gov.uk/ christmascracker www.facebook.com/ eastdulwichchristmascracker East Dulwich will host a street festival with all the trimmings when the Christmas Cracker returns on Saturday 5 December. There will be musical performances, quirky roaming entertainers, a festive market with fabulous gifts and delicious festive foods, a treasure hunt, arts and crafts workshops, poetry and storytelling for kids and grown ups, exclusive offers from fantastic local traders and businesses.

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Life

them what you think they should do.

Leaving an abusive relationship is difficult for so many reasons and for many people it can be years until they are ready to do this.

Domestic abuse normally escalates; it can start off fairly small and gets worse over time. If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable, speak out. It may be as small as; “When I was talking to you earlier, I noticed that your boyfriend kept answering for you. That doesn’t seem like a healthy relationship to me, is everything ok?”

Your friend may have become used to this kind of behaviour and not realise its negative impact until you flag it up.

There is also normally an increase in domestic abuse cases around Christmas so it is important to be vigilant at this time of the year. If you are worried about someone you can phone Solace for advice and third party referrals.

No excuse for abuse

What stops people asking for help?

People often fear that if they open up to those around them it might make things worse. At Solace our services are completely centred on what you want and need, and we give you a range of options to choose from, to address the abuse. We are also still working to change the perception that abuse is only physical, it can be psychological, emotional, financial or sexual and it

The service manager for the council’s domestic abuse provider Solace, gives us her advice about domestic abuse.

Do you think there are key early warning signs or patterns of abusive relationships?

I’d be careful of people who get very intense very early on, for example people that fall in love in a week. It won’t necessarily become an abusive relationship, but it’s definitely something we hear a lot. They may also be very protective or jealous early on, which can be flattering, but is often a way for them to isolate you. By usurping the other people in your life, perhaps your children, family or friends, they increase their control. Encouraging financial dependency is also common; they may not want you to go for that promotion, or may always be asking how you spend your money.

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What advice would you give someone being abused?

If something doesn’t feel right talk to someone or call an agency like Solace (anonymously if you want). We take emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse just as seriously as physical abuse.

If you think a loved one may be being abused, how can you support that person?

If they do speak to you the most important thing is to believe them; often the abuser will have told them that no one will, so it’s crucial you don’t reinforce that. Abusers may often be the last people you would expect and can be very charming,

which is why they are so good at controlling people. They may also be rude or make it uncomfortable for you to see your loved one. Don’t fall for it and cut off contact, this may be when they need you most.

One of the most unhelpful things you can do is judge. Statements like “I would never let someone treat me like that” or “if it’s that bad why don’t you just leave” put the blame on the person being abused and suggest it is happening because they’re weak.

That simply isn’t the case, abuse can happen to anyone. It is hard if a loved one won’t admit to or leave an abusive relationship but be patient and listen to what they need rather than telling

can happen to anyone, male or female, regardless of economic status, age or sexual orientation.

Often people still love their partner and hope that things can change if they just do everything right, but unfortunately abusers are adept at finding new ways to justify their behaviour. There are also cultural barriers. We are currently doing a lot of work with faith groups and community elders on referring people to the experts at Solace, rather than giving advice themselves to perhaps keep the family together or keep problems behind closed doors.

One of the biggest barriers is people thinking domestic abuse is none of their business. Domestic abuse is society’s problem and we all need to take responsibility for dealing with it.

Having children with an abusive partner can also make it harder to leave. They may be a loving parent and you feel guilty you may cause distress or emotional harm to your children. However in two out of three of all domestic abuse cases, there are children present that witness the abuse and there is a high likelihood that they are much more aware of it than their parents realise. This can affect their emotional, psychological and

What to do if you think you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship: • If there is an immediate danger call the police on 999 • Talk to your GP, friends or family • Look at the full list of information and domestic abuse support services available as part of our domestic abuse strategy at www.southwark.gov.uk/domesticabuse Southwark Advocacy and Support Service (SASS) is run by Solace Women’s Aid to support those experiencing domestic abuse who are over 16 years old, whether male or female. The service offers a wide range of support including: • Legal advice • Advocacy • One to one counselling

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www.southwark.gov.uk

Could you be a domestic abuse champion?

Our aim is to create a network of community based champions to raise awareness and dispel myths about domestic abuse. We want them to help people within their community build confidence in reporting abuse and seeking support.

Volunteers will receive comprehensive training in early 2016 and be fully supported by Southwark Advocacy and Support Service throughout.

For more information on becoming a champion email southwark@solacewomensaid.org or call 020 7593 1290. behavioural development. Growing up in this environment also means they themselves are more likely to become abusive or abused in their own relationships. This is one of the reasons abuse is so damaging; its effects can literally last for generations. We provide support for children as well as adults affected by abuse and would urge you to contact us for advice.

• Peer support groups • Working with Refuge to provide accommodation for those experiencing domestic abuse • Sanctuary scheme to help those who have experienced domestic abuse remain safe in their homes • Child and mother therapy • Support and guidance for perpetrators.

For more information on the services available go to solacewomensaid.org/get-help/southwark To talk to an advisor in confidence, please email southwark@solacewomensaid.org or call 020 7593 1290.

YUVA support people aged 11 to 25 who are concerned about their own behaviour or are experiencing domestic abuse. To contact the team email yuva@dvip.org or call 020 8222 8281.

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Winter 2015 Winter 2014/15

www.southwark.gov.uk

Sharing a new world Joyce and Esmond “We like to meet up with the young people and at the same time improve our knowledge of computers. We are making good progress; we like going online to search for information, Skype our family, send emails and pay our bills.

We like being independent and we don’t have to depend on our children to do this for us.”

Cara is paired with Shirley to help her develop her computer skills

How a group of students are bringing older people into the digital world – and making friends at the same time

E

very week ten Year 12 students from Alleyn’s School in Dulwich, volunteer to share their computer skills with older people.

Cara, one of the students, is paired with Shirley. “Since I started coming to weekly sessions with Cara I am less frightened of going online.

I want to improve my basic skills like Word, emails and get help with paying my bills online. Cara has really helped me; she is good at explaining things and very patient.” said Shirley.

Learning to use a computer might initially seem daunting but as more and more daily activities are carried out online it can feel as if you are being left out of the loop. But for older people being able to use the internet and computer can make a huge difference; from ordering a shopping delivery, to checking your bills. But most importantly it can

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help you stay in touch with family and friends.

Working together, Alleyn’s School and Link Age Southwark have developed a computer skills programme for people living in Southwark aged over 60. Popular themes include email and the internet, digital photography, computer basics and more.

Sitting in the room, there is a real buzz of chatter, and not just about computers. Touchingly, many of the pairs have created real friendships and enjoyed sharing their lives with someone of a different age.

Cara has found working with Shirley really enjoyable. “It is so important for everyone to be able to use a computer but I really do understand how hard it might be to begin with. I really enjoy seeing Shirley gain confidence”, said Cara. “And we always have a quick chat each week and tell each other what’s been going on. It’s really nice.”

MySouthwark Once you are online, sign up for a MySouthwark account. You can access your library account, check which benefits you’re entitled to, pay your council tax, register to vote and find out which day your bin collection is and the list is growing all the time. If you are a council tenant or homeowner you can do even more such as reporting repairs or paying your rent online.

Visit www.southwark.gov.uk/ mysouthwark to find out more.

The benefits of volunteering, no matter what time of year, are enormous for you and for your community.

Here are some ways you can help in Southwark.

HOurBank

Southwark Foodbank Christmas dinner with all the trimmings is something we all look forward to. For some families though there just isn’t enough cash left over after the bills have been paid. The Southwark Foodbank, run by Southwark based charity Pecan, provides emergency food for people in need year round, but every December they run a hamper campaign to help families have a traditional Christmas meal who would otherwise go without. Could your family, community group or work colleagues find £50 to help brighten a Southwark family’s Christmas Day? The Foodbank has a range of volunteer opportunities if you want to help but can’t spare the cash, including hamper packing, bucket collections and distribution. Please email Foodbank.support@pecan.org.uk or call 020 7732 0007 if you would like to help.

Volunteer Centre Southwark Want some further ideas about volunteering? Volunteer Centre Southwark has a wide range of opportunities and is open for volunteering advice drop-ins where you can come into the volunteer centre, speak to an adviser and search for opportunities.

No appointment is necessary, but you can call and book if you would prefer. You can find more information at www.casouthwark.org.uk or call 020 7358 7020.

Pecan’s HOurBank service lets people with skills help people who need those skills in a pay it forward fashion. For example, Paul helps Matilda with her computer. Matilda then bakes a cake for a party. People at the party fill out a questionnaire for an employment project, and Paul gets employment advice.

The HOurBank encourages people to get involved in their community and increase their self-confidence, giving them opportunities to interact with other people of different cultures and backgrounds, developing skills to increase their employability and helping them to become active citizens making a difference in their communities. Do you have a skill you could share? Please contact HOurBank at hourbank@pecan.org.uk or call Naomi on 020 7732 0007.

Chris Price Head of Pecan

Getting everyone online If you are interested in joining a computer group like this visit www.linkagesouthwark.org or call 020 8299 2623 You can also visit www.southwark.gov.uk/ learninginlibaries to find more opportunities for computer training for all ages.

“Giving is an important part of life. We are approaching Christmas, a time of giving and receiving gifts, and one of the most precious gifts we can give people is time. In busy lives trying to make ends meet or even just trying to catch up, we lack time and can lose relationships.

People who volunteer time at Pecan, Southwark Foodbank or are members of HOurBank all give their valuable time and end up feeling energised and fulfilled in return. In volunteering we are all equal, because we are all giving something of the same value – time. And in giving we are able to enrich the lives of each other.”

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Info

Don’t let money worries spoil Christmas Christmas can be great but when money’s tight, it can also be a really hard time for many families. We’ve got information on the organisations that can help if you find yourself in a tricky financial situation.

If one of your new year’s resolutions is to take control of your finances but you don’t know where to start, then visiting your local Citizens Advice Bureau might be a good shout.

They run Money Savvy Southwark, which offers advice and support about how to manage your money, including how to stay out of debt and what do if you have got into difficulties. They also offer free workshops to groups, so if you want them to come to your community get in touch. www.moneysavvysouthwark.org.uk Tel: 020 7064 9771

www.southwark.gov.uk

Go online Budgeting is a skill but it’s one we can all learn, and now there are lots of online tools that can help you keep track of your household budget. From working out how much spare cash you have for daily expenses once bills are paid, to helping you save, there are some brilliant tools out there. If you’ve got a smart phone, why not try the Daily Budget app; we’ve also heard good thingsabout an app called GoodBudget. Also worth a visit is the Money Advice Service, which has various online money calculators and tools, visit www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/budgetplanner

Be direct We’re all really busy and there’s no busier time than Christmas. Why not take one thing off your to-do list and set up a direct debit for your bills.

You don’t have to worry about forgetting to pay each month; just set it up once and you’re sorted.

Plus, for bills like council tax or your TV licence, direct debit lets you spread the payments out over the year. To pay your council tax by direct debit and to set up an online account, visit www.southwark.gov.uk/mysouthwark

Loans

Get advice

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When money’s tight and you need some ready cash to tide you over until payday, then a payday loan or running up a credit card bill can seem tempting. But it will usually make your money woes far worse as you’ll end up paying way over the odds, thanks to high interest rates or arrangement fees. For example, Sarah needed a new washing machine but the only credit she could get was at a high street store, so with the high interest rates charged by the credit card company, a £300 machine in the end would cost £1400 to pay back.

A good alternative is the London Mutual Credit Union, who offer long and short term loans with no hidden costs, no arrangement fee and no early repayment penalties, even if you have poor credit rating. They could have lent Sarah the £300 she needed and she would have avoided £1000 of extra debt. They have four branches in Southwark.

Housing worries We all like treating family and friends at Christmas, which can make it hard to remember to put the rent first, but rent is definitely the first thing that needs to be paid. If you are worried about paying your rent or mortage, then it’s important to ask for help as early as possible, rather than waiting until the situation gets worse.

Shelter offers confidential freephone advice on housing, welfare benefits and debt issues. www.england.shelter.org.uk/getadvice Tel: 0808 800 4444 If you are a council tenant and are worried you are at risk of going into arrears, put your hand up for help. Speak to your income officer who can help you work out what your next steps are. Email incomehousing@southwark.gov.uk or visit www.southwark.gov.uk/housing

Benefits are changing Welfare benefits are changing.

If you are not sure whether or not you are receiving the right benefits, need some help submitting a claim or even are going through an emergency, crisis or hardship that is causing serious money problems, you can ask our local support service team for help. www.southwark.gov.uk/ adviceandbenefits Tel: 020 7525 3393/7434

Jean, chair of the Longfield Estate TRA “I manage my money by first starting with my income for the year, then all my bills such as rent, council tax, gas, insurance, and so on. I add up what I pay in a year then divide by 12 which comes to 50 per cent of my income. And of what’s left, I budget 30 per cent for food which means 20 per cent left for clothes and such. I do have a credit card but never pay interest, as I make sure I can pay in full at the end of the month. If you are in debt and paying lots of interest, go and get help to reduce the burden.”

www.creditunion.co.uk Tel: 020 7787 0770

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Offer

Could you be the next Southwark scholar?

We know that some young people have to think twice about going to university because of the hefty costs involved. We don’t want our brightest students to miss out so we set up the Southwark scholarship scheme in order to help aspiring university graduates from low income families. With the next round of the scheme launching in January, we are urging all eligible students to apply.

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ow in its fifth year, the Southwark scholarship scheme has already supported 49 young people to go to university. To qualify for the scheme, these students must have a record of

excellent academic achievement and have made a positive contribution to their local communities. Cllr Victoria Mills, cabinet member for children and schools said, “Our scholarships have enabled some of Southwark’s most gifted young

people from low income backgrounds get to university and take another step towards their future career aspirations. The council is committed to supporting all our young people to reach their full potential.”

Winter 2015

www.southwark.gov.uk

Exclusive offer for Southwark residents This winter, take in the spectacular view of London from the top of The Shard for just £19.95 The View from The Shard is bringing Southwark residents an exclusive offer this December. If you are a Team London Bridge DealCard cardholder, you can buy an adult ticket for The View from The Shard for £19.95; that’s a saving of over 35 per cent. But don’t worry if you don’t have a card. just take this page of Southwark Life magazine with you to The View from The Shard’s ticket desk and you will still be able to take part in this fantastic deal; the perfect festive treat for you and your friends and family, or as a day out for a special occasion. And there has never been a better time to go, as The View from The Shard has been transformed into an enchanted world of ice and snow giving the perfect magical winter experience.

The deal is valid until Thursday 31 December 2015, every day except Saturday and is not valid for advance ticket purchases; you must buy your ticket on the day you wish you to go. Your DealCard or this page must be shown when purchasing your adult ticket at The View from The Shard’s ticket desk. The offer can only be redeemed once and cannot be exchanged or refunded. It is subject to availability and is not valid for use with any other offer.

For full terms and conditions of entry visit: www.theviewfromtheshard.com/en/about/tcs

Joshua is in his second year, studying law at Birkbeck, University of London As well as getting great exam results, Joshua was also a youth councillor on the Southwark Youth Council.

Why did you apply for the scholarship scheme?

I applied because I knew that I had a chance of getting it and that it would ease the financial pressures of going to university. It costs a lot of money to become a barrister and knowing that I don’t have to pay the debt means I can focus more on my studies.

Why would you encourage others to apply for the scheme?

I would encourage others to apply because the opportunity is there so why not make the most of it? The council is here to help young people make the best of themselves and get the best out of their education. You can do something today that your future self will thank you for.

What would you say to other young people who are considering university, but are unsure about going due to the financial burden?

Apply for university first and think about the financial side later. You wouldn’t be thinking of university if you were not capable. There are financial opportunities out there; it’s just about looking for them.

Find out more about the scheme and apply at www.southwark.gov.uk/scholarships Your application must be in by 31 March 2016 24

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Info

805 Restaurant The ever popular 805 on Old Kent Road is the ideal place for anyone looking for a spicy alternative to a stuffed turkey (as delicious as that is). The buzzing restaurant serves up some Nigerian staple dishes such as jellof rice and pepper soup, perfect for a winter’s day. But it’s a dish called the Monica that deserves a try. The whole fish, you can choose either Tipila or Croaker, is garnished with peppers and comes with a side of plantain. Warning: approach with caution; while delicious, the peppered fish is a challenge even for seasoned spice lovers.

Whilst most of us are at home with family on Christmas Day there will be plenty of dedicated people in Southwark working through the holidays to keep us safe and well. We met some of them to see how they spend their Christmas.

Bermondsey boy John Harris

From delicious bowls of steaming pho to fresh crispy pork with rice, this authentic Vietnamese spot is a great choice this Christmas. The restaurant prides itself on using only the finest ingredients from the best suppliers, from British free range chicken to authentic noodles and rice and spices sourced directly from the markets of the Far East.

100 Redriff Road, Surrey Quays Leisure Park, SE16 7LH www.cafeeastpho.co.uk

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(front)

´ Mamuska!

Nested away in the one of the oldest ´ shopping centres in Europe, Mamuska!’s selection of freshly made Polish food is a guaranteed festive treat. Their Christmas menu includes hearty portions of Pierogi z kapusta i grzybami (classic boiled dumplings filled with sauerkraut, mushroom and onion) and Indyk (roasted turkey breast served with a creamy white mushroom sauce over buttery mashed potato and carrot and leek salad). For added Christmas cheer, be sure to head down on a Thursday for the weekly open mic sessions.

J

ohn will be working with the rest of Blue Watch at the Old Kent Road fire station on Christmas and Boxing Day. Their shift starts at 9.30am but John will be starting the day much earlier, opening presents with his two boys before he heads to work.

“It’s really a normal day, we carry on with our regular routines, but we are hoping to spend some time visiting the Evelina children’s hospital at St Thomas’s Hospital to hand out toys donated by local businesses. We finish at 8pm so I’ll get home for a couple of hours with the family before bed.”

Upper Ground Floor, Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre, SE1 6TH www.mamuska.net

805 Old Kent Road, SE15 1NX

Café East Pho

www.southwark.gov.uk

Christmas at work

Christmas Southwark life We all know that one of the best things about Christmas is the chance to eat delicious food. But if the traditional turkey roast isn’t quite tantalising your taste buds, then we’ve handpicked a couple of alternatives places to try for a Christmas meal with a twist.

Winter 2015

Miss Tapas Ok, ok, tapas isn’t commonly linked with Christmas dining, but this traditional tapas bar in Peckham is worth a try at any time of the year. The menu serves up the best Seville has to offer ranging from crowd favourite Patatas bravas and the finest ham you’ll ever try Jamón ibérico.

46 Choumert Road, SE15 4SE www.misstapas.com

Local GP, Dr Ali, will be spending Christmas day and Boxing day working at the North Southwark Extended Primary Care Service based at Bermondsey Spa Medical Practice.

“Even though being at work means I’ll spend less time with my family, I know I’ll be making a real difference to people who need care from a GP. I’ll be meeting my family in the evening on Christmas day, which is when we usually have our meal together.”

Tim Yorsten, emergency nurse at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

“There will always be some patients requiring emergency care over the festive period and we’ll be here for them. In a way I feel like I’m having Christmas with my ‘work family’. I don’t mind it at all.

The team always has a particularly positive attitude when working over Christmas and we do our best to make things feel nice and festive for our patients.”

Sislyn Edwards, telecare response officer at Southwark Council, will be out and about all Christmas Day in her vital, and sometimes lifesaving, role supporting vulnerable older people in the borough.

“I’ll bring in a few bits and pieces like some Christmas cake for my break and I get to go home and see my family at the end of the day. But I know they are able to manage and I feel blessed to be able to go out and help people who don’t have family around and need our help.”

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