issue 17

JANUARY-MARCH 2021

Your FREE Community magazine for: St Pauls St Werburghs St Agnes Montpelier

WELCOME

Here we are landing in 2021 and we find ourselves in another Lockdown!

What a challenging year it has been for many, great losses in the community, businesses collapsing, mental health concerns, financial struggles and so much confusion and chaos due to COVID-19.

However for many it has been a time to pause, take a deep breath and look at one’s life in retrospect.

Many have connected with nature, found their creative side and had the time for reflection.

It has been a transformational time.

Through this “rollercoaster” as many have described - We would like to think some good has come out of it.

There is Hope on the Horizon for 2021 - Things can only get better or so we hope.

If you are struggling with the Lockdown please get in touch with any of the support groups in your area or reach out and we will try to support or point you in the right direction. But please don’t suffer in silence.

Utilise Vocalise community Magazine as a platform to share stories, ideas and positive action to move forward and be heard. Remember this is something that has been created for you as a resident, we want you to feel connected more than ever, don’t let the lockdown get you down.

It hasn’t been an easy journey. The dedicated team have tried to keep the wheels turning and bring you local news, stories, information and awareness. We hope you have appreciated it. We would like to hear your views and would like to continue to keep St. Paul’s, St Werburghs, Montpelier and St Agnes connected. We are a very small team of volunteers and hope to grow and develop in 2021 so if any of you have a few extra hours a week to offer or would like to help support us especially with funding applications or social media please do get in touch with us via email: info@vocalisemagazine.org - We would really like to hear from you!

We would like to end with a huge thank you to the team of dedicated volunteers, supporters, the local businesses who advertise and share stories, the writers, distributers, and of course the readers without you there would be no Vocalise. Deep Gratitude to you all.

Love Light and Blessings for a positive 2021! We’ve got this!

contents 4-5 6-7 8 9 10-11 12 13 14-15 16-17 18 19

Local Artist Top Tips for a new Career Mother Earth Fencing is for Everybody Bristol Food Puppy Love Alone Not Lonely Puzzles St Pauls Advice Centre Surya- Diversity Hiring Bristol Childrens Centre & Thought from an Oldie

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Councillor Mike Davies Delivery update Vocalise Police update: Tom Tooth Bristol CIC St Pauls Adventure PLayground Montpelier Health Centre & St Werbs Comm Centre Addis Kitwana Charmaine Lawrence The Age of technology Colour Up Bristol Black Author & Workers Coop Ryan’s Wheels

Disclaimer: due to lockdown things may have changed, please contact the relevant organisation if you are unsure. Please keep sending us pictures and articles and keep an eye on our online platforms info@vocalisemagazine.org vocalisemagazine.org @vocaliseBristol

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@vocaliseBristol This is YOUR community magazine, if you’d like to be involved, get in touch!

Published by: Vocalise Bristol CIC Backfields House Upper York Street Bristol BS2 8QJ

Co-ordinated and designed by: Hollyanne Schnieden printed by Sebright

Vectors from Vecteezy.com and some photographs from Unsplash

Local Photos Cover Story Memorial art for Martin Walker aka Sirplus.

Created by Turroe & Jody Deep condolences from us here at Vocalise to all of Martin’s loved ones.

Head to our website Vocalisemagazine.org or more on this artwork and legend of Ashley Ward

Thanks to Directors and Volunteers: Vandna Mehta (founder) Hilary Finch Judith Davis Anna Ruggiero //Kabbo Ferdinand Lynn Mareno Carlos Casas Dave Holden Lucille Smith

Thanks to: Szabolcs Vass, The Network, Subitha baghirathan, SPAC, Caroline Matthews, Surya, Alka Mehta-Graham, Cllr Mike Davies, Sgt. Tom Tooth, APE Project, Montpelier Health Centre, St Werburghs Community Centre, Tina Brown, Charmaine Lawrence, Full Circle, Ryan’s wheels, Solange Burrel, Deasy Bamford Also a big thanks for all the key workers and community members for staying strong and safe during this time. and to our delivery team who will be getting this magazine to you!

Big thanks to the Sebright team for staying printing through lockdown to get the magazine to you all.

Want to get involved?

If you are interested in contributing to Vocalise in our April editon please get in touch to discuss your ideas. We accept local art, poetry, news and more...

info@vocalisemagazine.org

The deadline for submissions is 5th MARCH For Advertising queries email Anna

vocalisemedia@gmail.com 3

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Local Artist

The rooster - sculpture at St Werburghs Written by Szabolcs Vass I have recently moved to Bristol and at the moment I am staying at my friends’ house near Eastville Park.

I am 28 years old now.

I have finished a Printmaking bachelor in the Academy of Fine Arts Novi Sad (Serbia). After I have enrolled on an MA in graphic design which I have graduated from two weeks before moving to Bristol. Among other projects on digital platforms and ceramics I have done design projects for a few festivals in Vojvodina, and I also ran an art residency called Dombos Visual during an art and music festival in my hometown for the last 5 years.

I met Ricardo last year when I was last in Bristol.

When I saw the amount of tires I realized that I needed a spare pair of hands in building the armature, both physically and mentally. Also, I was aware that he is a sort of artist-handyman and he can help contribute with his own ideas in our collaboration.

About the tyre sculpture: A good friend of mine who works at St Werburghs City Farm and looks after the community garden told me about the tyres that flout the environment in the park. We have known each other for more than 15 years and he has seen my work, knows my aesthetics and ideology so he got an idea that I could come up with a concept for a reproductional solution that would prevent him sending the tyres to landfill. I got inspired by the area after visiting the farm but even before that I was very excited about the potential to continue my art in a new city with a public art piece which can help me connect to the local community and art scene.

Trash is a footprint of consumption, so it is available everywhere.Studying the environment and local art, I have got the idea that Bristolians are open-minded and understand about this issue but still not immune to it.

The St.Werburghs City Farm celebrates its 40th birthday this year so because they supported me and offered me a space to exhibit my sculpture, I decided to make a variation of their cockerel logo. I called it a rooster as that was the word I originally knew before ever hearing about a cockerel.

I work with recycled materials, making art to raise awareness of the damage of waste on the environment.

I have a bunch of ideas, and not all of them are street art. I also want to continue with ‘transhuman artefact”, my latest series,working with ceramic plates. And if I will find space I would like to continue researching the behavior of expanding foam on my large scale canvases.

After my initial two weeks quarantine and before the second lockdown I had only four days to explore the local art scene. That made me spend some time with my demons - unemployment, new environment, lockdown etc so I decided to heal myself with art from the side effects of covid.

The Farm is very cautious with their space during these times but they offered me a remote covered outdoor area where I could work with Ricardo with access to electricity so I feel really lucky about having a welcoming place to work on my project.

<---- Opposite- pictures are some of Szabolcs other art work

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20 top TIPS FOR Farewell 2020! It was a crisis in terms of employment for the travel, hospitality and retail sectors and our sectors i.e.: property, construction, care, logistics & driving are booming! There is also a green recovery anything you can do to get your foot into these prospering sectors. Lucky for you, we have been asked to

1 Get Specific - Time is precious when looking for a new job. Do not waste it by filling out a bunch of applications to places you are only semi-interested in or have skills for. Most job boards and recruiting sites allow you to make specific searches to match you with a job that you have skills for and would enjoy and succeed at.

Do not Settle - Remain specific when it comes to where you want to work. Before starting your research, try compiling a list of what the perfect company is to you, the type of work environment you thrive in, research the employers brand online and speak with friends and family, so that you find a company and position that fits your skills.

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3 Do not Just Quit - You have done your research and submitted your application/cv, but now what? Keep your eyes open for other potential employers and opportunities as they come available, it is better to apply for many positions that interest you than just applying to a few.

If a company sends a rejection letter, take this opportunity to ask them what you could have done differently, and build on that for next time. Better yourself!

Remember the Cover letter - Hiring managers only spend seconds reviewing a CV, so it’s important to grab their attention with a cover letter. It is best practice to change the cover letter for each position you apply for.

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Job Specific CV - Just like your cover letter, each CV you submit should focus on that job. Be sure to highlight certain skills and experience that caters to that position.

Keep it Simple - When it comes to stating experience and work history, keep it recent and simple.

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7 Employment is not Everything - Many job seekers go weeks or even months without finding the right job. This leaves gaps in the work history section that often leaves recruiters fearful the job seeker is not reliable. Fortunately, stating your work history is not all there is to a CV. Be sure to feature any volunteer work or projects you did during the gap. If you were a stayat-home parent, mention that as well. Recruiters want to know what you were doing and how you were growing your skills while you were not working for a company.

Dress for What You Want - Most have heard the saying, “dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” First impressions are everything, especially when you only have 30 minutes or so to talk with someone before they decide to hire you. Yes, dress for the online interviews also as this puts you in the right mindset.

9 Do not Fake It - Employers do not want to see fake smiles or rehearsed answers when it comes time for the interview. They want to know who they hope to hire, and you want to match the position and culture. Being honest is the best way to show off your skills and land the job of your dreams.

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A NEW CAREER! hearts go out to them. do not be disheartened, we all have transferable skills to get into these prospering well on its way with a variety of opportunities and Bristol is pioneering! You may wonder if there is compile a list of 20 top tips, from your CV to the follow-up. If you want that competitive edge, read on.

10 Share Stories - While in the interview, it’s important to back up your skills and experience.

Share stories and gives examples of situations that really made your skills stand out.

Leave the negativity at the Door - When you are talking about previous experiences and situations, it is important to remember that you should not talk down a past employer.

This can create a bad impression on your character. Plus, this is an interview about moving forward. Any past discrepancies have no place there.

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The Follow Up - Whether you have heard back about the job offer or not, it is important to follow up a few days after the interview. Send a thank you letter or email stating how it was a pleasure to speak with them and that you really appreciate the opportunity.

Network - Sometimes, job opportunities happen in the most unlikely of places. Be open to communicating and networking with others in your field. This can be done over email, or even over social media platforms like LinkedIn. Allow yourself to connect with others and make your presence known.

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14 Get References - Before applying to any job, create a list of references and reach out to those people to make sure they are comfortable with you listing them.

Do it Again - So, you applied for a job and did not get it. A few weeks later, you notice that the position is still open. Feel free to try again! Take note of anything that may have gone wrong the first time and take another crack at it. This shows initiative and your ability to develop and grow.

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16 Turn Negatives into Positives - We all have weaknesses, and employers want to know about them. Remember, a weakness can become a positive.

Focus on Accomplishments - Acknowledging your accomplishments is just as important as anything else and will help you stand out.

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18 Stand Out from the Rest - This can mean many things. From showcasing a work portfolio, to sending in a presentation that acts as your cover letter.

Be confident - This can range from answering questions with a straightforward response.

Employers want to know that you are confident in your skills and yourself. Without showing this, it can lead them to believe that you are not qualified.

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20 Be Engaged - Hiring managers and employers want to know that you are listening and interested in what they have to say. This means you must be engaged as well! Ask questions if something is unclear, nod to show you are listening and keep eye contact. There is nothing more impressive than someone who shows up prepared and ready to tackle any obstacles ahead.

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Mother Earth

The new community group connecting people in Ashley Ward

Sonja, a resident of St Pauls, has set up a community group, Mother Earth, with the support of The Network. Sonja tells us about her inspiration behind Mother Earth and how she got the group off the ground during the pandemic.

Sonja was keen to connect with her local community and learn more about how to live sustainably.

She wanted to create something that was accessible to people like herself“I was keen to learn more about protecting and living in harmony with my environment and taking some action, but needed to be able to fit this within work demands and childcare commitments.”

Tara (from The Network) reached out in St Pauls, offering support & guidance on community related ideas and projects. Tara met with Sonja, and talked through some ideas and Mother Earth Bristol was born! A community meeting in St Pauls was the first step, where ideas, expertise and knowledge were shared for Mother Earth. Unfortunately, lockdown came and Mother Earth’s plans were put on hold.

As schools reopened, Sonja presented an idea of a fruit and veg box scheme, to enable everyone as a community to cut down on single-use plastic, and to buy produce which has been transported as short distance as possible to reach them. Tara connected Sonja to like-minded residents and local groups. Amazingly, there was an immediate interest in the community- 24 families signed up within one week! St Pauls Learning Centre kindly agreed to house the project and it has been running weekly, since 12th October, providing local families with low cost, plastic-free fruit and vegetable boxes.

Sonja reflects,: “We’ve been able to connect through recipe sharing, have been eating more healthily and have been using the fruit and veg to vary our usual diet. It’s also been great to involve our children and they’ve been getting excited about the fruit and vegetables. It’s been a great way of getting to know new people in the community and meeting members and volunteers. We deliberately wanted the boxes of fruit and veg to be low cost so that everyone can get access to fresh, healthy food even where money is tight.”

“It has been so fun setting up this project, seeing the joy of people in enjoying the produce, building a community and using the power we have when we come together as a collective to make a difference together! We’ve got lots of ideas about how to move the project forward, share what we have done with other communities and get even more people eating healthy, low cost, plastic-free fruit and veg.”

Morgan, a member and volunteer of Mother Earth’s fruit and veg scheme says: “Mother Earth has introduced me to likeminded, community focused, environmentally aware people I would not have met otherwise. It is helping to root me into the community, helping me manage a period of unstable work by providing healthy and affordable food and educating me about the diverse ways to prepare the produce into economic and nutritious meals.”

It’s been great to have supported the creation of this group at The Network; we have worked together with Mother Earth to think creatively and create community action during the pandemic.

Contributions and involvement in your community is possible, even during a pandemic. You can begin by reaching out and meeting like-minded people and looking to your community assets for further support.

If you’d like to find out more about Mother Earth, the fruit and veg box scheme or how to get an activity going in your community contact The Network Project on info@thenetworkbristol.org.uk

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Fencing is for Everybody!

It’s been an epic day. I’m somewhat exhausted, yet somewhat elated as I go to speak to another community stalwart and dedicated youth worker Stephen Findlay who has been tutoring young people in the art of Fencing. For this next report, I’ve interviewed two of the young people who are engaged in this discipline, Ms Ayah Yaqub and Mr Ashley Brown.

Introduce yourself and tell us why do you like Fencing?

Ayah: “ Hi. My name is Ayah Yaqub and I am 7 years old. I like fencing cause it’s fun and exciting, plus I’m learning skills. And if somebody tries to hurt me I will be able to defend myself. I enjoy going to the tournaments because if you do well you can win medals and at the end, they sometimes give us sweets.

I’ve won two medals and a golden shield. I remember the first tournament I competed in, I came first; (pointing at her father), my dad did not film it because we did not know that I was going to be first. And that’s where I won my golden shield.”

Ashley: “ I am Ashley Brown and I’m 11 years old. I like fencing because we get to use sword things and I can become good at it. The thing I enjoyed most is beating my friends. I enjoy tournaments, but my age group is really tough. I don’t win that much and am sometimes saddened by it, but I want to get better.”

If you were to invite more children to join Fencing, what would you tell them?

Ayah: “ I invited some of my friends to join and told them that it was fun and told them that they could use swords, cause they love using swords. And they came and we had a lot of fun. I would say the same to other girls too. Fencing is my number one sport and my second favourite is Tennis. I love Fencing and want to keep doing it forever.”

Ashley: “ I would tell them if they could beat me or compete with Stephen then they could win medals and treats at tournaments. And then say, (in a deep voice) It’s Wednesday my dudes!” as he and Ayah walk off giggling, readying themselves for their next sparring session.

(Stephen joins me smiling) Introduce yourself and tell us about Fencing.

Stephen: “ My name is Stephen Findlay. My colleague, Jimmy Taylor and I started teaching at the club about three years ago after receiving some lessons from a Fencing coach, John Rhodes. He came to teach us some tactics and general practice so that we could pass it on to other people in the community and broader area. We are known as Inner City Fencing and are doing our sessions in Docklands Youth Project.

The main club we are affiliated to is White Eagle Fencing Club in Shirehampton. The club are supportive and we are always welcome to attend and practice techniques. We’ve had some success in the short time they have been doing it. Our fencers have done well in internal competitions and an international competition in Wales last year.

One of our fencers won gold and another won bronze.

They’ve been doing really well in terms of improving their technique and progressing well in competitions.

The good thing, it is a discipline just like any other martial art with rules, conventions and guidelines you have to abide by. It also lends itself to being creative

because it is not just a black and white thing where one thing follows another and you get a result. It takes thinking, tactics, and movement, looking at what the other person is doing, nuance, counteracting when they are hesitating and judging when to attack and strike.

It’s a good discipline to help you develop your cognitive and lateral thinking abilities and to be able to apply that to your life. It will help you work towards goals and to encourage you to keep working at improving in different aspects of your life.”

What is representation and diversity like in fencing locally, nationally and internationally?

Stephen: “ It has become better, but it has been a very elitist sport in the past. It is a very expensive sport to maintain, but has become more accessible over recent years. The equipment and travelling can be quite expense, but we looking at ways to keep growing our sport and supporting our youth.

Diversity is better than what it used to be, as there are people of colour on the British team. At the last Olympics, a Muslim woman was representing the American team and they have a few Black fencers in their team. There are also fencing association in Africa and the Caribbean now who are very competitive on the international front.

International judging panels have also become more representative. We got to just carry it on, get the word out and get more people involved. We must get more people to try and who knows they might even like it.”

So when and how can people join?

Stephen: “ We had to take an enforced break because of Covid and summer holidays, but we are hoping to restart the club early October 2020. Our normal sessions are Wednesdays 4:30pm - 6pm and we hope to maintain this slot back at Docklands Youth Project in Brigstocke Road, St Paul’s.”

Me: “ Thank You!” Stephen heads back over to the young fencers under his tutelage and continue instructing them on the finer details of the art form. This has been quite an exhausting and enlightening day as I am left with great admiration and appreciation for these youth workers and young and enthusiastic people I’ve met. We need all the good vibrations we can encourage and generate.

That wraps up the sporting section. Next, we look at financial and asset literacy.

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Bristol Bites Back Better In November 2019, a new campaign launched in Bristol to give people the power to make our city and communities stronger through food now and into the next decade. Bristol Bites Back Better has been highlighting the central role food plays in our lives, not only during the pandemic, but also as part of a strong recovery and a bright future.

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Asher Craig, said: “In a year marked by uncertainty, the one thing that touches all our lives is food; how we access it, and how we experience it in our families and communities.

“Bristol is a pioneering city when it comes to sustainable approaches to food, but not everyone has had the opportunity to participate in the conversation about what good food means to them, or to share their thoughts on what changes they would like to see to make food in our city better in the future.

“With Bristol Bites Back Better, we’re inviting everyone in the city to explore how food can make our lives and our city better, and to hear from communities across the city about how they’re using food to get through these times.”

Here in St Pauls, we’ve seen a number of amazing projects emerge throughout the last year. At Malcolm X, the Food Hub Consortium Project sprung to life in April, delivering culturally appropriate food to 400 local families and individuals per week. Mother Earth Bristol, a veg box scheme that champions fresh, local, low-package produce, was set up by local resident, Sonja Ayres. From St Werburgh’s Community Centre, the Bristol Families Community Food Share was quickly launched in partnership with local primary schools, with help from some of the team at Neck of the Woods café.

As the country and the world talk about Building Back Better, we want to talk about Biting Back Better. We want the people of Bristol to use the power of food to create a healthier, happier future. We are co-creating this future with the citizens of Bristol, starting conversations to find out what different communities want and need, and exploring how, together, we can make it happen.

We would like to hear from the residents of St Pauls. What’s working in your area? What’s missing? What do you want to see happen?

What would you like to take part in? You can join the conversation by following the QR code and telling us or emailing florence@ bristolfoodnetwork.org. From there, we’ll be inviting you to take part in a community conversation to help shape the food future of St Pauls and the city.

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Make four vegan meals for under £7!

Better Food believes in a fairer food community for all. Food sourced locally with the highest organic standards in mind, so that suppliers get a fair deal and the planet is treated kindly. Organic, locally-sourced food can sometimes feel out of reach, especially after an expensive Christmas. But organic is achievable on a budget. By planning meals in advance and batch-cooking, you can make the most of the ingredients, and save on food waste too.

This vegan sausage casserole is under £7 and will provide four portions – half a week’s food for one person, or a delicious midweek meal for the family. A great way to try out Veganuary. Find recipe inspiration, plus sustainability tips and more over on betterfood. co.uk and on Instagram @betterfoodco.

Vegan black bean and sausage casserole Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, sliced ¼ medium squash, diced into 1cm cubes 3 carrots, chopped widthways 1 tsp chopped rosemary 2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 400g tin of chopped tomatoes 80ml of water 400g tin of black beans (drained and rinsed) Pack of vegan sausages, chopped into 1cm chunks ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper

Method Heat the olive oil into a deep saucepan on a medium flame. Add the onions and cook for 8 mins, or until golden.

Next, add the squash, carrots, rosemary and garlic and cook for a further 10 mins.

Pour in the tinned tomatoes, water, the black beans and sausages. Season with the salt and pepper. Place a lid over the pan and turn the heat to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 mins, or until the squash and the vegan sausages are tender.

Remove the casserole from the heat and serve up alongside chunky bread or creamy vegan mashed potato.

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Puppy Love

Our own Lynn Mareno talks about surviving Covid and the joy of canine companionship in aiding her recovery.

an emergency which the wonderful clinician who diagnosed me over the phone told me. I could hold a sentence together. Whoopee !

When I look back, I was so glad I did not go into hospital .

Our wonderful NHS were amazing. They kept me informed of the risks and at one point after I felt ‘better’, only to go down again, they re assured me that they were there for me but the numbers were rising and all I could do, was to self-isolate.

During these times, a friend who had lost her mum to Covid-19 sent me a picture of an adorable puppy. She knew I had wanted one for a while but the tenancy agreement, would not allow pets so I tried to dismiss the thought of adopting him.

March 2020 could not have gotten any worse.

I was on a flight from Bristol to Holland, sitting beside someone who coughed most of the journey.

I did not take much notice simply because, who knew then what we all know now.

3 days after, what I now know was the incubation period, I flew home to Bristol not knowing the cough I had started to develop was the beginning of a life changing episode of fear and uncertainty which is affecting many across the globe today.

For sure, I didn’t feel great but the coughing, shivering, flu like symptoms, I put down to too much cheese, wine and decadent food while away for the 4 days I had been gone.

On the 7th day, feeling so ill and breathless, I decided to call the doctor who prescribed antibiotics for a chest infection and steroids for my asthmatic symptoms that had increased, I had no idea that the next few weeks would be so traumatic for me.

During this time, I was alone.

My partner, was working as normal. He was on nights so I spent a lot of time sleeping when he was asleep in the day , and then awake when he was at work. I will always remember the night when I felt so ill and, by this time walking from one room to the next was an effort, I really thought I was going to die. This was it.

I could no longer hold long conversations on the phone to my friends and family, but, I was not 12

Something kept drawing me to look at this pup though. He needed a home. I needed some form of comfort and every time I looked at his picture I felt a little hope that the world was still a beautiful place and we cannot give up.

I eventually gave in after much deliberation simply because, I realised life is too short to live in regret.

We picked Teddy up in May and have not looked back.

Through lockdown, as a therapist and counsellor, I see a lot of people online from home with are range of different issues: grief, isolation, Covid-19 problems, trauma on all levels .

What I don’t see is the need for comfort when we hang up. When people are isolated with the uncertainty of life like never before, I’m grateful for Teddy. I have to take him for walks, feed him, look after him. He has helped my recovery so much by the unconditional love I receive from him as well as his playfulness, his naughtiness, which make’s me laugh, but above all, his companionship. The more I connected to the pup the better I began to feel. It is true when they say that animals and babies are a great healing gift.

Teddy gives me a reason to get up in the morning, to deal with life, I have post Covid fatigue which most people say is the hardest thing to deal with.

Walking him daily helps my physical, mental and emotional health . Something no doctor or medication could provide. He has certainly changed our world.

Alone, Not Lonely

Subitha Baghirathan – Community Access Support Service, Inner & East Bristol Networker We’re all hearing a lot about loneliness these days. With the winter celebrations now over, and the long stretch of short days and dark nights ahead of us until spring, some of us may be feeling more affected by the reduced social contact that Covid-19 restrictions have resulted in more than ever. It’s important to acknowledge that this is a very difficult time and look after our mental health. Perhaps a changein our perspective on being alone can help.

Being alone though does not need to equal loneliness. Author Natasha Pulley commented: “Being solitary isn’t a disease that needs a cure.”

One of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing encourages Connection. Regular telephone calls can help us both connect and give to others. We can also feel connected by paying attention to the sights and sounds around us. The Buddhist monk, Sheng-yen, wrote about his time on a solitary retreat: “Even though I seemed to be alone, there were many insects around the hut who created all kinds of sounds in the evening.”

Food writer, Nigella Lawson, has talked about cooking for one, after her husband’s death: “It’s a pity when people say they don’t cook ‘because it’s just me’. I thoroughly believe it’s important to cook for yourself because symbolically, it’s important to say you’ll take care of yourself.” Giving attention to cooking or laying simple food out on a colourful plate can bring mindfulness and noticing into our day.

Time alone can give us a chance to be being silly or creative. Another Way to Wellbeing is Learning, or trying something different. You could try a new radio station that plays music you’re unfamiliar with, and perhaps dance to Stay Active!

Many religions encourage solitude to get to know yourself and your faith. If you don’t follow a religion, solitude could help you become surer about yourself, your aspirations and relationships. Some strong, compassionate characters spent time alone under prison restrictions: Nelson Mandela and suffragette, Alice Paul. These periods seemed to increase their determination to improve society for the benefit of all.

These are merely some suggestions to try to think a little differently about being alone.

Friends of St Paul’s Library Activity Update We have had an incredibly busy year. The crisis affected us but we tried to keep up our momentum. So we switched our online creative writing, arts and crafts and storytelling in schools to an online format. This worked really well. In fact, much to our surprise, our Open Mic Night became an international event, with poets from India staying up until 4am to join us, and guests from North America, Botswana, Uganda, Malaysia being regular attendees.

We were surprised but delighted to acquire some funding from Arts Council England. This has resulted in considerable work taking place in local schools involving dance, theatre, creative writing. We have been able to extend our weekly programme to incorporate dance, a knit and natter session, drawing. Most recently, we have been funded to create more beauty in St Pauls via our Gardening Club Flourishing in St Pauls.

So this is our weekly programme : Dance moves Dance classes for the over 50s Monday morning Cleo Lake Arts and Crafts 2 sessions Tuesday evening Carol Sherman – spaces available Afrika Homecoming creative writing course Tuesday evening Akulah Agbami - currently full. New course to commence in Spring.

Drawing with Serah Chibombwe Wednesdays 11am Youth Writes Rites – Wednesday - Writing classes for young people start date to be confirmed Akulah Agbami Spaces available Knit and Natter Helen Thomas Friday 3pm from January Gardening Club various days Judith Davis. Volunteers most welcome.

Storytelling in schools Amantha Edmead ongoing Open Mic Night last Thursday in every month 7-9pm.

Everyone is welcome at all our activities except those which are currently full.

Please get in touch via our email address if you require any further information on our programme.

ALL SESSIONS EXCEPT GARDENING ARE ONLINE. We would like to extend our special congratulations to Malachi Gibbs, a young man attending Youth Writes Rites.

He used his time extremely productively and succeeded in producing his own anthology of poetry entitled Game.

Here is a flavour : the old game pretty ancient people carved in rocks as memory ancestors and maybe just maybe their old way of life sacrifices to god drawing animals on the rocks yaks cows horses people carved in rocks elephants two giraffes scraping engraving cultures leaving a message on the mountainside in the case to tell us don’t forget

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Number Teaser

Use the numbers 1 through 9 to complete the equations.

Each number is only used once.

Each row is a math equation.

Each column is a math equation.

Remember that multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

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DOT TO DOT Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve hidden some objects in the magazine Can you find them all?

This year is the year of the Ox in the Chinese Zodiac. Find all the Ox and email us the correct answer for a chance at winning a prize!

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The advice team at St Pauls Advice Centre respond to recent queries: 1. Q. I’ve been getting Employment & Support Allowance (ESA) for some years, and a friend told me she’d heard that people in my position might be financially better off getting Universal Credit (UC).

Should I make a claim?

A. Before going ahead & claiming UC, please seek independent advice from an organisation like St Pauls Advice Centre. Although some people may be better off on UC, it’s not the case for everyone and it is important to check. Be aware: If you claim UC, you can’t change your mind afterwards & go back on to ESA. In addition, if you are not already getting Personal Independence Payment (PIP) you may want to claim it if you have illness or disability. You can do this by calling 0800 917 2222 or ask an independent advice agency for advice about your eligibility.

1. Q. I had a letter a couple of weeks ago telling me that a medical assessor would be calling me to do a medical assessment in respect of my UC claim. The was supposed to happen 3 days ago, but I didn’t get a phone call. Should I do anything?

A. It may be that the assessor tried to phone you & couldn’t get through for some reason. Unfortunately, if

you do nothing it may be that your UC is stopped due to your ‘failure to attend’ the assessment.

The letter you received should have contact details for the medical assessment agency, so contact them urgently & ask them to rearrange it. It’s best to contact them both by phone and in writing.

You should also write in your UC journal that you missed a medical assessment through no fault of your own and request that the UC office does not stop your UC payments, but ensures that the medical assessment agency rearranges your assessment.

This seems very laborious, but it really is best to contact both the UC office and the medical assessment agency because they are separate organisations.

1. Q. I recently stopped work and need to claim Universal Credit (UC). I’m not good with computers and someone I met in the pub has offered to help me to make the claim and help me get a government grant. If I give him all my details he says he will sort it all out. What should I do?

A. We strongly advise against giving anyone, even someone well known to you, your personal details.

This man might be a genuine person wanting to help, but if he is not, you could find yourself the victim of a scam.

There is not a government grant available to UC claimants. When you make a claim for UC, you can request an advance but this is a just a loan which must be repaid.

If you need help claiming UC, we might be able to help. Alternatively, call the Freephone UC helpline on 0800 328 5644 and the DWP adviser should complete the online form on your behalf whilst you are on the phone. Make sure you make it clear to the DWP adviser that you are unable to complete the online form without this help.

Q. What is the deadline to apply for Settled Status and what will happen if I don’t make an application?

A. The deadline to apply to the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is 30 June 2021.

If you don’t make an application before the deadline you won’t have the immigration status allowing you to continue to live, work and study in the UK. This status means you will continue to be eligible for:

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•

Public services, such as NHS healthcare and schools

•

Benefit entitlements and pensions (if you meet the requirements)

•

British citizenship, if you want to apply and you if you meet the requirements

Others in your household (your partner/children) may also need to apply for EU settlement.

Q. Can I use my expired passport to apply to EUSS? A: You cannot use an expired passport as part of your application to EUSS and you will need to apply for a new one before making your application. You need to show that you have made every attempt to try to obtain a passport, however, if you are refused a passport from your national authority you can submit written evidence of this to be considered by EUSS. Q. How do I prove that I have settled or pre-settled status under EUSS? A.Once you have received an email stating that you have been granted status under EUSS you can access digital proof of this on Gov.uk: view and prove your immigration status. This service enables you to: get a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;share codeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to prove your status to others, for example employers Update your personal details, for example your passport number or email address Check what rights you have in the UK, for example the right to work, rent or claim benefits If you are from outside the EU you will receive a biometric residence card if you do not already have one.

If you have any questions about your application you can contact the EU Settlement Resolution Centre by calling 0300 123 7379 or ask a question using the online submission from eu-settled-status-enquiries.service.gov.uk The advice in this article is provided in good faith and is correct at the time of writing. It is vital that individual people get specific advice for their own situation from an independent advice agency.

Owing to current restrictions, St Pauls Advice Centre is not operating in-person advice sessions but advice continues to be available by telephone. Please call 0117 955 2981 or email enquiry@stpaulsadvice.org.uk and we will call you back.

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FIVE WAYS TO HELP:

DIVERSITY HIRING As passionate supporters of hiring diverse candidates, having inclusive outlooks and bringing equality to the workforce, we have been listening and taking in a huge amount of information following the #BlackLivesMatter reaction to the killing of George Floyd.

We know how important it is to hear first listen, absorb and act after.

But there is no question that the black community need less words and more action, so we wanted to offer some advice on how you can change your hiring strategies now to make an impact during this recovery period.

These principles are inclusive of all multi-cultural and inclusive groups across all sectors. So whilst you are lucky enough to be in employment, run a business or are an influencer, have a think about these five points.

1) Create a diverse and inclusive workplace model A large body of research shows that the hiring process is unfair and full of bias. Much of it is unconscious sexism, racism, and ageism. If left unchecked, it can harm your company. Some strategies to combat bias include: Rewriting job descriptions so they are gender neutral and use words that strike a balance of gendered descriptors and verbs. Create a blind system of reviewing resumes so you don’t see demographic characteristics Set diversity goals as an organisation, which will help you track your progress.

2) Ask: How diverse is your executive team?

There are many reasons that an executive team may not be as inclusive and culturally representative as it needs to be. Be honest about this and make clear strategies to start to change the range of experts you bring on board.

At senior management level if you don’t have an equal balance of men and women and people from various cultural and religious backgrounds then people from these groups will simply feel unrepresented, simple!

3) Understand the cultural and religious practices of your workforce Having a strong and visible policy for honouring a variety of cultural and religious practices is key. Simple aspects of this include focusing on holidays and celebrations such as Black History month, Ramadan, Eid and Diwali for example. When employees feel satisfied with and supported in their work environment, the company benefits from higher which leads to employee retention. It also helps hiring from other communities who see you’re serious about what you say.

4) Create a culture of listening Many employees leave jobs when they feel that their authentic self and uniqueness is not appreciated or valued. As such, it is vital to create an environment where they feel a sense of connectedness to the company and its people.

Employees need to feel free to express themselves based on their unique perspectives. Companies must make sure employees feel included and respected regardless of their age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, physical conditions, cultural background or country of origin.

4) Don’t forget about inclusivity For diverse outlooks to really stick, it’s vital to also consider inclusivity. This is important because different people from different backgrounds and generations sometimes have vastly different perspectives on all sorts of issues, from what they choose to wear to work, to how they compose an email, to the kind of feedback they give on employee reviews, to what kinds of ideas they pitch in meetings.

5) Understand what you are measuring in employee surveys Employee engagement surveys and measurements are common, but they can neglect to segment data according to gender, generation, ethnicity, geography, and others. This means you miss the whole picture and an opportunity to identify issues that are important to these groups. Getting this thinking straight is a successful way of demonstrating to top diverse talent what the impact of your work in this is – making it much more likely you’ll get the best candidate for the job.

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Surya is a proactive diversity and inclusion recruiter and believes we are all “Under one Sun” written by Ms Alka Mehta-Graham MRec Follow us on https://www.linkedin.com/company/surya-recruitment Or get in touch as a client or candidate for advice www.suryarecruitment.com

St Pauls Food Club & Central Bristol Children’s Centre.

St Pauls Food Club was set up in January 2020 in partnership with Family Action & Feeding Bristol with food being sourced from the national charity Fareshare South West along with other local and national suppliers. The club runs on a weekly basis every Wednesday morning from 9.30am until 12 noon in our Family Hub at The Children’s Centre in St Pauls. The aim of the service is to provide regular access to a sustainable supply of food to people at risk of food poverty, to encourage families to access local support services and be signposted to other agencies, to increase disposable income for local families to improve life chances and wellbeing and to reduce the amount of food being sent to landfill in the UK by utilizing surplus food.

Families can become members by completing a membership form available from the Children’s Centre. Once someone becomes a member of the Food Club scheme they will be asked to pay £1 for an annual membership, they are then offered a variety of food for £3.50 each week. In return members will receive approximately £10-£15 worth of food per week. Families must have a child under the age of 5years.

Here at Central Bristol Children’s Centre we are still very much open and providing services for families in and around Central Bristol. We are running parenting sessions and Stay & Play sessions via the magic of Zoom as well as adult learning courses, advice & guidance, playful activity sessions and songs and games through our Facebook and You Tube pages.

Visit our Face book page at “Central Bristol Children’s Centre” https://www.facebook.com/CentralBristolCC For more information about any of our service you can also contact the Children’s Centre on 01179030337.

Thoughts from an Oldie Written by Hilary Finch

Well I'm hard pressed to know what to write this time.... Tier 3 Lockdown, Christmas and a new year, 2021 coming up and who knows what's ahead! Coronovirus has taken over the globe, not just us.

In my splendid isolation I watch the news, read and listen but have little connection to the community as such. I have great respect for the many who are doing so much to provide food, shelter, help and support. I have to admit to being pretty lazy doing a few sewing repairs for clients and going for walks here and there. I have not taken to zooming into on line learning or shows. I prefer finding stuff on line to have a giggle, quite often at President Trump's expense! Having lived here for a long time (with gaps) I meet people I know on my trips to the shops or on walks and have a socially distanced chat avoiding the ones who try to give me a hug!

My bubble consists of my daughter and her family living four doors away – as I write all safe and well. There are four generations of us within two streets and the youngest, my great grandson, now nearly two years old, will never really understand these times we are going through. Whatever reality we end up with as a community and Britain will be normal for him. One thing is certain, we will have to be patient as the country and Bristol Council go broke and services struggle to cope.

My sympathy goes out to all those suffering through these times through illness, death, anxiety, stress and loss of homes and jobs. The scale of depravation is awful. The numbers of people suffering at the hands of their partners is despicable. Please be patient and kind. Nothing lasts for ever, but it will be a long time before any kind of normality is regained for many.

In the meantime all the best for 2021 and be jolly careful as the Boris said!

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Update from local councillor Mike Davies St Pauls Planning Group For the time I remain a councillor (until 6 May 2021) I am facilitating a St Pauls planning group over Zoom. The group will review live planning applications and, if appropriate, submit comments on the planning portal or statements to Development Control Committee meetings. Get in touch (cllr.mike.davies@ bristol.gov.uk) if you are interested in getting involved in the group. The next meeting of the group is at 6.00pm on Monday 4 January.

Transport Schemes in our area Bristol City Council are progressing with plans to accelerate existing long-term transport ambitions to improve infrastructure around walking, cycling and public transport, including in Ashley ward. There have already been cycle lanes introduced in parts of Mina Road (north of the James Street roundabout) and Stokes Croft. The next stage will involve consultation around possible measures in Picton Street and Mina Road (south of the roundabout). For Picton Street there is an opportunity for a radical option such as full pedestrianisation. Mina Road is more difficult because it is very well-used and is needed to access so many roads, but one measure that could be implemented is closing the exit onto it from the M32. If you have any thoughts about these issues please email transport.engagement@bristol.gov.uk. If you have any other suggestions for transport changes, please use the Council’s transport request form: bit.ly/3hcjjSj (they are accepting submissions until 31 December).

Council budget consultation The Council wants to know what you think about proposed changes to council tax as part of its annual budget setting for the next financial year. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Council’s finances and seen many more people needing its support with council tax, business rates, business grants, providing food packages to people in need, food vouchers to children, as well as emergency accommodation and homelessness. The Council says it will aim to avoid cutting any essential services. However, council tax may need to increase by a small amount to make sure these services can continue to run. Visit bit.ly/3pHhane to complete the consultation before the closing date of 28 December. Information can be provided in an alternative format, including paper copy, by emailing consultation@bristol.gov.uk or by calling 0117 9222848.

Council meetings The Council are still conducting official meetings via videoconferencing, and you can watch these live on their official Youtube channel (bit.ly/35HSFOQ). To find out when meetings are happening visit bristol.gov.uk/council-meetings. Members of the public can still submit questions and statements to meetings by emailing Democratic Services (democratic.services@bristol.gov.uk).

Council CONTACTS Your local councillors are available to support residents with queries relating to Bristol City Council services such as planning, adult care children and schools, waste and other community issues.

Here’s how you can contact them.

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Cllr Jude English (Green Party) Email: cllr.jude. english@bristol.gov.uk Call: 07584 151 099 Correspondence address: Green Party Office City Hall PO Box 3399 Bristol BS3 9FS

Cllr Mike Davies (Labour Party) Email: cllr.mike.davies@ bristol.gov.uk Call: 07584 370 413 Correspondence address: Labour Group Office City Hall PO Box 3399

Bristol

BS3 9FS

Cllr Carole Johnson (Labour Party) Email: cllr.carole. johnson@bristol.gov.uk Call: 07584 370 414 Correspondence address: c/o Labour Group Office City Hall PO Box 3399 Bristol BS3 9FS

If you have queries about welfare benefits or immigration issues, you can contact your MP Thangam Debbonaire’s team: thangam.debbonaire. mp@parliament.uk; 01173 790 980.

Despite all Creativity and Adversity Were out walking one day

Delivery

We’ve changed the way we deliver Rather than a door to door service we will have magazines located at key drop off points across Ashley Ward for you to collect. Drop off points include:

Creativity had spotted.

St AgnesBaba Ganoush Adventure Playground Local shops MontpelierHealth Centre Local Shops St PaulsGlen’s -Learning Centre Docklands/Malcolm X Local shops St WerburghsSt Werburghs Community Centre Better Food Local shops

Adversity started right away,

Local

His litany of restrictions.

holding copies.

The wind in flight through the streets and trees.

Fear swirling on the pavements Driving people apart.

They sat a while In a shaft of light

news agents, take-aways and off-li-

cences in your area may be

If you would like to be included as a drop of point please email us at: Creativity sat back, nodded and turned her mind to the treetops, the grey clouds rushing across the sky.

After a while Adversity declared, emphatically.

“Well that's just the way it is! “ Creativity listened to the silence that followed and thought,

info@vocalisemagazine.org

We also appreciate that some of you may be less able to go out and collect a magazine for yourself.

Perhaps ask a neighbour or friend to collect an issue for you.

Window Wanderland “ There will be a Window Wanderland (www.windowwanderland.com) taking place in St Pauls on the 26th & 27th March. More information will be available soon but if have any questions or you would like to offer sponsorship or get involved please contact stpaulswindowwanderland@gmail.com

“I wonder what happens to the wind.

When it's done”.

Deasy Bamford 21

Police Update: Sgt. Tom Tooth Before writing this piece I read through my submission from March of this year. I talked about coming out of the winter months, looking forward to longer days and better weather, and all of the engagement activity the neighbourhood policing team hoped to achieve with members of the community throughout the rest of the year. How little we knew then about what was to come. As we turn the corner into 2021, with the promise of a vaccination programme and a way out of this nightmarish situation, we also need to acknowledge that the challenges of overcoming COVID-19 will remain with us for many months still. Normality, as we knew it when I wrote my March piece in blissful ignorance, is not something that is going to come back to us quickly. This is true for all of us. Within the police service we have had to change so many ways of working, getting used to new restrictions and regulations, and the requirements placed upon us to assist with this public health emergency. Like everyone else, we cannot wait to return to a time where the burdens of living through a pandemic no longer operate upon us, but until then, we will continue to play our part in the fight to stop the spread of this disease, working alongside you to make the necessary adaptations in your own lives.

Even though we have been asked to ‘police’ aspects of everyday life that none of us ever imagined doing – restricting gatherings, closing bars and restaurants, promoting mask-wearing – we have tried to do this in the Ashley Ward with the same sensitivity and understanding that characterised our starting position on community policing before anyone had ever heard about this strain of coronavirus.

I hope that members of the communities across our ward have been able to see and feel this, and much of the feedback that I have received in recent weeks suggests you have. However, we are always open to your views on what we could change or do better, so please get in contact with me if you have something to raise or share, positive or negative. At the moment we do not know what tier of government restrictions Bristol will find itself in after the holiday period. We do not know how the Christmas period relaxation of restrictions will have impacted on case numbers across the city. We do not know whether further, tighter restrictions will be bought back into place. But we do know that whatever state of affairs we find ourselves in, we can only get through it by working together, and we will continue to be a key part of that. When this crisis has begun to retreat and the world as we knew it is returning, I want us to continue to work on reducing the social distance between the police and local communities, even if we’re still asked to stand two metres apart.

M 32 Maple Trees You may have heard of the campaign surrounding the maple tree.

We have covered the story online and photos from the most recent meeting.

www.vocalisemagazine.org

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Bristol’s young people work alongside police in battle against knife crime Avon and Somerset Police have been collaborating with young people on the complex issue of knife crime, in a way that puts them at the heart of helping the police to understand and tackle the problem.

Over the past year, the police have been working with young people from four schools across the Avon and Somerset area, in order to better understand why they might carry knives, what support they want from the police, and the issues they face in their daily lives which can lead to them becoming involved in knife crime and violence.

The police have supported them to turn those ideas into short, animated films, working alongside student animators at UWE Bristol in this creative process.

The films form part of a wider campaign in east and south Bristol, Weston-super-Mare and Taunton, which sees the students’ work reflected on buses, billboards and bus shelters, as well as the key messages from each film discussed on local radio and in the local media. Importantly, the films and messages are also being shared widely on social media, with a prize on offer for the school whose film gets the most views on YouTube. In Bristol, the project has involved pupils from Bristol Futures Academy in Barton Hill and Merchants Academy in Withywood.

The Merchants Academy film, created by a student who is now in year 8, is called Life b4 Likes. It tells the story of a girl who films a fight on her phone, live streaming it and racking up likes until a knife is pulled out and one of the girls who is fighting is stabbed. Viewers are left thinking that had the person filming sought help rather than filming the fight, the outcome could have been different.

The Bristol Futures film, created by a student who is now in year 11, is called The Cycle. It explores the tit for tat, retaliatory nature of knife crime and calls for agencies in Bristol to work together to break the cycle of violence.

Sergeant Richard O’Brien, who works with the Violence Reduction Unit in Bristol said: “After months of hard work by the students, and the frustration of having to put the project on hold due to the pandemic, it’s brilliant to see this campaign come together.

“The key element of this project is that it has young people’s opinions at the heart of it. We know that police telling young people not to carry knives is not the solution, and police enforcement alone will never be enough to resolve this complex issue.

“By listening to young people’s voices and engaging them in a creative process to produce campaigns which mean something to them and their peers, we hope that they can feel empowered and less fearful.”

The students have also been working with a local film maker to produce a documentary which explores the themes raised in the project and which looks at the work being undertaken by various agencies to tackle serious violence.

During the creative process, the young people spent time in workshops with their peers, facilitated by IDEAL Sustainable Development CIC, discussing the issues, before coming up with a film concept that they pitched to a panel who chose one idea to take forward.

The winning teams then spent time developing their ideas with the team from IDEAL and student animators from UWE Bristol, who then brought the ideas to life on screen. Legendary animation studio Aardman Productions also gave their support to the project, inviting the young people to attend a special day at their Bristol site, where they learned more about how to create a successful animation. The team at Aardman also provided professional guidance and support to the young people as their films developed.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset Sue Mountstevens said: “Young people should be free to experience and enjoy life without the fear of challenging confrontations or upsetting situations as a result of knife crime.

I have been saddened to hear that some young people do not feel safe in their communities due to a fear of serious violence.

I hope that by working closely with young people on this innovative project we can empower them to become part of the solution.

“It is really promising to see such inspiring films produced and I really hope they have a long-lasting, positive impact on our communities.”

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St Paul's Adventure Playground The Phoenix rising from the ashes! There was a very successful crowd funder immediately after the fire earlier this year so with that £35,000 plus the insurance and various wonderful people, the playground is having a complete and amazing make over.

Guy Dobson and Rachel Davies, the Executive Directors, after tenders from 5 different firms, have brought in Master Designer John O'Drsicoll of Apes at Play – playground engineers – to bring about this project. John designed the Gorilla House at London Zoo and the play area at London's Olympic Park.

He and his team are reusing just about every bit of the massive London Plane Tree that was holding so much of the original swings and levels.

Other artists have been busy with the help of children in Covid compliant groups making a new metal gate from scrap materials and the wonderful chameleon made of old tyres. Coco and Booboo of No time to waste arts! led these groups. Regine Babaei, a local Iranian artist, made the metal roundabout with some children during the summer. Kids have been involved with all sorts of the project during this rebuild. One of my favourites is the Hobbit like seating area that will be part of the new garden still to be planted. There will be tooled up work spaces in several containers for the children once the building work has been completed and the Lockdown situation has changed.

Electric lights light up the tower at night and CCTV cameras will be in position to protect the site.

There is a playroom at the top of the tower with splendid views out across the city, seating and a piano.

A Cafe is under construction as well by locals, Tommy and Jessie from the Granite and Grain Company.

Benches and tables outside have been provided by the Architect Centre and different people will eventually be providing a changing program of foods reflecting our diverse population served up to order through the new cafe windows.

The Children's' Bike Exchange run by Robbie Warin and Alex Sharpe has kept running throughout this massive build. The opening hours have remained the same, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 12 – 6 and Saturday 12 – 5pm. Once more normal distancing measures are in place they will again be training youngsters to fix bikes.

Various outreach schemes are run from the site and 130 dinners have been supplied for collection on Thursdays on National Lottery Funding. This has reached capacity but well being packs for kids are also being given out.

I give a massive thank you to all the contributors who are putting together what promises to be a magnificent adventure playground. Now what we need is some kind of normal to be able to use it fully again.

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Words & Pictures Hilary Finch

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COVID-19 - A MESSAGE FROM MONTPELIER HEALTH CENTRE

We are all aware that we are living in difficult and challenging times because of COVID-19.

We understand that this is a strange and uncertain time for everyone, and very different from how life has ever been before. Our health centre also seems very different because of additional safety measures in place to keep our patients safe, and queuing outside the surgery due to limited space in the waiting room because of social distancing.

Our main job is to focus on the most unwell patients: to work out which of them need hospital care and those who we can help in the community. Many patients will have medical problems that have nothing to do with Covid-19, because these things won’t go away while we fight this crisis. All the usual serious problems like heart problems, depression, strokes and cancer won’t stop and we will need to keep treating these as well as Covid-19

Under the instruction of NHS England all appointments are triaged. There will currently be NO facility to book directly into a face-to-face appointment.

Why must we do this?

Firstly, the Government have instructed us to. Secondly, anyone who enters the building that doesn't need to poses a risk to themselves, other patients and our staff. We have an obligation to protect our staff and patients from harm.

Please be assured we are still here and are still working! Our flu clinics will be running as normal, although socially distanced.

Personal appointments are offered on need and if we determine that you need to be seen then you will be seen. Believe us it feels unsatisfactory having to limit face to face appointments. We miss the personal contact! .

Our ideas and plans for 2020 had included more involvement in the wider Montpelier locality (for patients and non-patients) in community events. Due to Covid-19 we obviously had to put these plans on hold.

Let’s hope that these can become a reality in 2021.

In the meantime, we hope you can understand the need for this different way of working.

Keep safe everybody.

ST WERBURGHS COMMUNITY CENTRE LOCKDOWN SUPPORT We know it's another lockdown, but we are still here to support our community. There is a range of services still operating at St Werburghs Community Centre, now all by appointment only. Call 0117 955 1351 or office@stwerburghs.org.uk to book or ask any questions.

BEFRIENDING

Monday-Tuesday: Telephone Befriending Service for people who would like to receive regular calls.

We will offer a friendly, listening ear and can connect people to other services if needed. Contact 07544829760 or email office@stwerburghs.org.uk Funded by the Coronavirus Community Support Fund from the National Lottery Community Fund.

ST WERBESS STAY & PLAY

Tuesday: Stay & Play for pre-school children & their grown ups,10 -11.45 am. Mutual support & a safe space to play. Free flow & parent/carer led.

Booking essential to reserve your space.

PRINTING & SIGNPOSTING

Tuesday-Friday: Do you need help accessing the right service? Or want advice on local support networks? We can signpost you to the right service & you can also access Wi-Fi, print, scan, photocopy essential documents at the Centre.

Funded by Bristol City Council's Bristol Impact Fund.

TAI CHI

Friday: Tai Chi mutual support group for older people, 2-3pm.

Booking essential.

EASY PC

Wednesday: One-to-one digital support by appointment only.

Our free computer lessons will continue to help individuals with their digital needs through lockdown.

Funded by BCC Bristol Impact Fund

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OPEN ACCESS COMPUTERS

Tuesday-Friday: Our lobby computers and Wi-Fi are available to use for essential needs.

This includes job searches, housing, banking & online food shopping.

Funded by BCC Bristol Impact Fund.

HOT DESKING

Tuesday-Friday: Hotdesking, £10 per day/ £100 a month. Lockable spaces available, Wi-Fi & access to refreshment area included.

EMPLOYMENT ADVICE

Wednesday-Thursday: Employment advice is available at the Centre. Booking is essential.

Funded by the Coronavirus Community Support Fund from the National Lottery Community Fund.

KICKSTART OPPORTUNITY

We are looking into providing a range of community outreach work placements for 16-24 year old Universal Credit claimants, registered with JobCentrePlus via the Kick Start programme (flexible working hours). jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/kickstart/

Like many other charities, St Werburghs Community Centre has had to re-evaluate and change how we provide our services through the pandemic. We knew it was essential to support the wellbeing, health both mentally and physically of our community and still be a go-to place for signposting advice. Change was essential and we have diversified our projects & how we provide them.

• Raking & Baking, our cooking and gardening course has become an outreach project.

• To support digital inclusion, the free access computers in our lobby are still available to book by appointment only.

• Mutual support groups will continue to run at the Centre including Stay & Play. Helping grown-up with young children to support each other through this isolating time.

• A Food Bank has been set up at the Centre to support local families.

• To tackle social isolation we have a new telephone befriending service.

• We are still here to signpost, arrange digital support & help you with your printing and photocopying.

ADDIS KITWANA

Written by Tina Brown

Addis Kitwana hails from Bristol and has lived here all his life. Having a passion for exploring his roots, Ras Addis was inspired by the lifestyle and message that called to him through Roots and dub music. At 16 he went to London and bought his first record and he's been hooked since then, fully embracing music and a vibe that resonated with his personal beliefs.

He started going up to London on a regular basis attending Shaka dances and meeting friends.

Ras Addis started dj’ing in his early 20’s, performing his first show with Yoga Dan on Roots FM and Bristol Passion FM. Soon after forming the Negus Melody sound with Levi Roots and Kama Dred and more recently dj’ing his own sets at local venues such as Cosies‘.

I like giving people the opportunity to feel what they want to feel through the music and embrace the joys and the sorrows together’. Addis said.

Ras Addis has since recorded 3 songs: Jah Bible by Dubkasm and Aba Shanti, Clash of the Titans with Ishan Sounds and Cradle to the Grave by Dubbing Sun and Zygos.

In February, Addis came to me to record some vocals for another tune that is being produced in France, so look out for Divide and Rule - Ras Addis meets Ishiban that's due out in January, a huge blessing for a man that has gone through so much.

Originally Ras Addis wanted to be a carpenter, however, food called to him and he drifted into it. He has since developed a passion for cooking Ital vegan food, experimenting with different ingredients and finding new ways to create delicious healthy food. He has volunteered with Fairshare, because his heart is with the people around him. He is always available to help and has since catered for festivals and pursued his own research into ‘herbalism’, drawing on the rich cultural history of herbs, good nutrition and healthy living.

Ras Addis has first hand experience as to how the conventional medical system can let you down, especially when ‘the experts’ do not follow through with concerns, giving little time to really listen and generally brushing people off with their expert knowledge and panicking in times of crisis just like today. Ras Addis had complained of issues two years prior to the 19th of March, when lockdown was instigated in the UK and in the two months running up to lockdown was showing clear symptoms of TB Meningitis (a virus that takes a very long time to develop), however, in the panic, and in the absence of essential notes that should have been on his records, Addis was left to get into a critical state. His children called the emergency services 4 times from the 20th to the 24th March before an ambulance came to the door, and by this time Addis was delirious and in a terrible state. He had been in this state for a good two weeks complaining of severe headaches and being unable to function properly. Ras Addis is now confined to a wheelchair and has suffered some brain damage,he now needs full time care and his life has completely changed. However, despite all of this, he has come back to us after 8 months in hospital, still with that positive attitude and cracking jokes. He's a true warrior, fighting against all odds to get back to his life in St. Pauls.

I think there is a message here: people like Addis who are generous and always willing to help, someone who sacrifices his time and energy for others; they are not often people who do call out for help, and quite often ignore the fact that they need to take some time out for themselves. The first rule of caring is to care for yourself. Every parent, every carer in this world, quite often forgets this in the rush and demand of every day living. And it's an easy thing to do. Since the Conservatives have been in office these past two years they have been slowly and systematically cutting costs and essential services, criminalising disabled and ill people with ridiculous PIP interviews. All of the care industry has suffered over these past 10 years and we sit with a welfare system that has been stigmatised, and is thus ineffective. Welfare is for everyone. Families struggle to make ends meet despite being in full time employment and no consideration is taken overall for a healthy work/rest balance. Schools have been turned into crowded businesses, and vital key workers are deported. The planning is all around economic growth which in itself is unrealistic as we live in a finite world. So I ask you, would you rather work towards a better life for everyone, or would you rather wait for the powers that be to get us back on the economic track, because this is the only thing that they are considering. Addis has suffered from the consequences of bad administration, the Doctors and nurses have suffered the consequences of lack of funding and being ill prepared. In the pandemic panic, many people just like Addis have been put to the sidelines, no matter how chronic their condition is.

And there are more solutions than just the one, and many ways to treat people that do not just rely on a vaccine. Herbal remedies, rest, getting outside in the fresh air are all vital to a wholesome life, and nothing will change or get better if we do not consider these things in government policy. I totally respect and value the contribution of modern medicine and I would envision a world where the logical and empirical, the scientific, can work alongside the holistic, the alternatives, providing a real growth in the welfare ‘economy’ - if that helps people see things in a different way. It's always good to have different perspectives on things, it's always good to listen, and not just to the experts.

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Charmaine Lawrence to become Youth Development Manager at Full Circle Magazine founder and former youth worker becomes Youth Development Manager at longstanding youth services in St Paul’s.

Full Circle, who have been providing youth services to the young people of St Paul’s for more than four decades, has appointed a new Youth Development Manager in November 2020.

Chairmaine Lawrence is a former youth worker, who herself attended the St Paul’s Family Camping Project (as it was formerly known) when she was a young person. She is also the founder of Mogul Magazine, the first ever BAME-led digital magazine for entrepreneurs and creatives in the Southwest region of the UK. “I am very excited to be Full Circle’s new Youth Development Manager. For years I have worked in the local community within various roles, including many years working at Full Circle as a youth worker and session leader. It has always been a desire of mine to help develop Full Circle and the services we provide. When I was younger, I used the services and attended the camps, etc. True to the name, I have come Full Circle, and I couldn’t be happier. I will be giving 1000% to this position. It is a great honour to lead the team.”

The appointment is part of the charity’s ongoing commitment to the young people of St Paul’s.

Docklands Youth and Community Centre, which it manages, has continued to provide activities and youth services throughout lockdown. It recently began Full Circle’s Educate project, a service providing one-to-one Maths and English tuition to young people whose education and wellbeing has been adversely affected by the current lockdown.

Dear Community Members, I am Charmaine Lawrence, founder of Mogul Magazine & the Mogul Minded Group. I am very excited to be Full Circle's new Youth Development Manager. For years I have worked in the local community within various roles. I am an entrepreneur, and author. I also run a digital publication called Mogul Magazine. I have also worked at Full Circle as a youth worker and session leader. It has always been a desire of mine to help develop Full Circle and the services we provide. When I was younger, I used the services and attended the camps, etc. True to the name, I have come Full Circle, and I couldn't be happier.

I will be giving 1000% to this position.

It is a great honour to lead the team and serve the young people and families in our community.

28 <a href="https://www.vecteezy.com/free-vector/note">Note Vectors by Vecteezy</a>

Charmaine Lawrence

The age of Technology!

From a warm climate where he is currently based it was a pleasure to catch up with my long time friend and amazing person who has set the pace in his profession as someone who has influenced the art of African dance and drumming in Bristol, nationally and internationally.

Norman Stephenson or Rubba as most people know him by, has long influenced how people from all backgrounds, cultures and races can enjoy the art of the continent when along with Ekome Dance Company, the first of its kind set up in the 1976 here in Bristol, African dance came to peoples’ attention with founder and friend Barry Anderson and his family.

Stephen Blagrove (Blaggy) whohas grown up as a drummer alongside Rubba and experienced the same journey, is now also one of the most experienced master drummers in the UK. They sculpted art of African dance as well as discovering over decades, the beauty and power in art of African dance which today, has helped the cross culture revolution to thrive and grow. Rubba’s legacy has far outreached his proficient ability to spread peace and love through arts, culture and to people

over decades of teaching traditional dance.

For someone who danced at funerals, on the streets and at his grandfathers funeral back home in Jamaica, who was homeless on the streets at one time in the early 70’s, Rubba’s passion for African dance started with traditional dance from the Carribean island’s, The Bristol West Indian Dance Company which was set up in the 1970’s when Inkwork’s ( renamed The Kuumba Centre) was a hotbed of cultural initiatives.

People who meet him instantly will recognise the man who passionately educates through school programs as an independent artist for the St. Pauls Carnival and, as a director of DMAC a move he made 13 years ago with his partner Kirby and his independent company Afidance.

Rubba worked at Hamilton House in Stokes Croft for 12 years from it’s origins as Co-Exist before leaving in August 2020.

I took a while to chat to Rubba as he relaxes in the sun in his home country of Jamaica.

Q: Where are you now, At this moment professionally since Covid-19 broke ?

A: Well, with DMAC we are looking for a new space and new facilitators to re group to be quite honest. We had no funding although, Bristol City Council did help a bit to create the space with a specialised flooring we put down ( which sadly, I had to leave ) but, we covered all forms of traditional dance through the years which was unusual for Bristol back then but, the pandemic has affected everything for now.

Q: How has the pandemic affected you professionally?

A: Everything is broken down currently because of the pandemic. With Afidance and DMAC, the current uprising on the planet actually, has got more people from other cultures interested in African dance and has given us a new platform for coming back stronger. So it’s a time to re group, re organise and come back.

I am in Jamaica at the moment and seeing the interest here in the Carribean that is surfacing in more people wanting to learn more of their African heritage through dance than ever before, it’s beautiful to see. More of our young black youth are interested, thats great. So, the plan would be to divide my time between here and the UK teaching and facilitating groups and workshops. UK is my base but Jamaica, I could easily spend more time here.

Q: When you began dancing …years ago, what were you influenced by back then ?

A: It was my destiny. Here in Jamaica, dancing on the streets, at school, my grandads funeral in particular, dance always held my heart. It’s always been my passion. Music, rhythm, it uplifts you.

Q: How important do you think it is for cross cultures to integrate into learning about others cultures through art?

A: It is very important. We learn through each other but I would like to see more of our own people becoming more autonomous . We have to love our own power . I have danced up and down the country for decades. A lot of people love African dance. The rhythm, the way it makes you feel. My vision is to: keep on dancing ,teaching and to be in a position to provide opportunities for others when in retirement.

Q: Education - What inspires you to work with children in your schools programme?

A: To teach children about the history of Africa through dance is a joy. I would like to see charitable organisations like The Arts Council provide more funding for African education for all children . Art’s programs should be made more available.

Creativity breeds positivity. It is good for the mind, body and soul.

Q: Where do you go from here and What is the future for DMAC.?

A: Hamilton House offered us an unworkable package which, I declined to accept.

Leaving has given us time to think about where we can re house. I am frustrated that going into schools children are not given enough time to learn authentic Carribean African influenced dance. The culture needs to stay alive . My vision is to keep dancing, teaching others .

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Colour Up: bringing diversity to climbing Words by Carlos Casas

Pictures by Lena Drapella and Colour Up

A couple of years ago, my friend asked me to join her for an indoor climbing session. It was the first time in my life that I came into contact with this sport, and it made me believe in love at first sight.

I was immediately hooked by how fun it was, incredibly challenging but equally rewarding. I even enjoyed the super tight shoes and the unbearable pain in my forearms the next day. Who knew that grabbing onto pieces of plastic to go up a wall could be this good?

I wish this was just a short and happy story, but as any person from a global majority or mixed race background, I started to see things from a race perspective: my fellow climbers were all friendly and helpful, but they all looked the same, and they didn’t look like me! After doing a bit of research (mostly to prove myself that I wasn’t overreacting), I found out that climbing in all of its variants, as most outdoor-related sports, suffers from a major problem of underrepresentation.

After mulling it over for a few months, I dragged my best friends along into setting up a climbing club for those who, well, look like us. Colour Up was born, as a sports/social group to increase diversity in this niche activity, and a way for us to climb with like-minded peeps.

Going Up We teamed up with our local wall, Flashpoint, and started working together to knock down barriers between non-white population and climbing. Through our meet-ups and our social media we do our best to educate about the issues around us, and offer a welcoming space for those who might find a climbing wall a bit daunting, especially when you might be the only person of colour in there!

We’re still taking our first steps and learning every single day, so please read this piece as an open invitation: if you want to be a part of our group or think you might be helpful/need our help, we’re here with open arms. No matter what your background or your skin colour is, this is a place for everyone that shares our goal of making the climbing/outdoor community more diverse, and therefore safer and more welcoming.

If you want to know more about us, or join us when our meet-ups are back (Tier 2 we’re looking at you!), find us on Facebook and Instagram as Colour Up Bristol.

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Black Bristol Author Shares World Without The Slave Trade Solange Burrell urges public to support new book which imagines world without the slave trade.

A black author from Bristol is urging the public to support her book.

Solange Burrell, who was born and bred in St. Pauls, has written a stunning fiction book based on the history of the slave trade, which haunts Bristol’s bloodied history.

The book is being published by the UK’s first crowdfunding publisher, Unbound, where supporters can pledge to help get the book published.

Cassie Waters, Crowdfunding Campaigns Executive at Unbound, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing this project to life.

Solange’s writing has caught the imagination of the whole company and we’re proud to be crowdfunding a book that tackles such an important and necessary topic.”

‘Yeseni and the Daughter of Peace’’ was written by debut author Solange Burrell, who grew up in St Pauls, Bristol.

Set in 1748, the main character sees horrific visions of life on barbaric slave ship and is encouraged by an oracle to travel through time in order to prevent the transatlantic slave trade from ever taking place.

Solange chose to publish with Unbound, to challenge the traditional publishing industry and show that there is a demand for black fiction.

Having approached publication previously through the traditional route of literary agents, Solange found that as a black debut author she faced a number of barriers to publication.

Solange says: ‘ I remember one [literary agent] saying that she wanted to hear from authors from diverse backgrounds, I got really excited, thinking my book might be exactly what she was looking for, until I read further down where she stated, ‘I don’t necessarily need to hear about your pain.’ Was that a roundabout way of asking for novels from diverse groups as long as they did not contain the issues that the marginalised groups faced?’

While only 2% of published authors and illustrators in the UK are people of colour, and only 5% of people in the publishing industry self-identifying as black African or of Caribbean descent, there is an astonishing lack of diversity in the UK publishing industry. Solange hopes that by crowdfunding her book, she will play a part in changing that statistic.

Alongside copies, supporters of the book will also be able to pledge for a range of “add-on rewards”, such as art prints, tote bags and virtual talks.

Yeseni and the Daughter of Peace will only be published once it has raised 100% of its funding target. If you would like to support Yeseni and The Daughter of Peace, you can do so via the Unbound crowdfunding page here: https://unbound.com/books/yeseni/

Worker’s Co-Operatives (and handbuilt bicycle wheels!) are the way forward.

In 2013 a team of cycling activists setup Roll for the Soul; a community cafe and bicycle workshop providing repairs, fairly priced fresh food, and a DIY space for local music and events. It grew from the grassroots work of organisations such as St Paul’s beloved Bristol Bike Project.

Whilst RftS is sadly no more their head mechanic – Ryan Downes – set up his own business with the same passion and attention to detail that he always strived for in the past, but this time focusing on just one crucial part of the bike; wheels.

RyanBuildsWheels are now a team of four having grown from a single person’s obsession with the spoked wheel, and between them have over 25 years of experience in the cycling industry. They craft lovingly laced, obsessively perfect handbuilt wheels to the highest quality. Every pair is designed to the suit bike and it’s rider. From ligthweight cross country, deep section carbon, race ready mountain bike, or touring wheels to take you across the globe there’s little they can’t do.

Ryan says “The bicycle wheel is a wonderful object. Many people think that wheelbuilding is a dark art, knowable only to a chosen few, but what I love about them is that once you understand the basic physics that makes them work, their true beauty starts to shine. They work a little like the Clifton Suspension Bridge; as a pre-stressed, tension balanced structure held together by wire [the spokes]. It’s amazing that something so light can be so strong! Building by hand allows us to pick and choose each component part down to the smallest detail to make the best product we can.”

As the business grew it became obvious that Ryan would need help to offer the service that he wanted to customers. Since April 2019 the business has been a fully incorporated Workers Co-Operative, meaning that no one person owns and controls the business and that it’s staff work together to run it. Every member of the the team is paid the same wage regardless of role or when they joined, and decisions about how to operate are made consensually and without a top down power structure whenever possible. “No Gods! No Masters!” says Ryan, “there’s no ‘boss’ here!”

“I don’t believe in making profit from the unpaid wages of workers. That some people are worth more than others is a sick joke. At RyanBuildsWheels we’ve come together to make something that is now so much more than the sum of it’s parts... just like a well built bicycle wheel I guess...now THAT’S beautiful!”

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