Westminster Reporter March 2014

FREE!

What’s on

Local news, events and offers

Get Active

Sign up to the Westminster Mile

Win!

Theatre tickets

SPRING 2014 ISSUE 115

30202250

Cycle Safely in Westminster Training and information for everyone

Follow us on @cycleconfident www.westminster.gov.uk/cycling

Westminster City Council

• 1 2 1 coaching sessions for adults • Group training • Themed led family friendly rides • Courses for schools • ‘Dr Bike’ cycle maintenance sessions Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced cyclist, Westminster City Council offers a wide range of courses, information and other services to build your bike confidence,

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

westminster.gov.uk

and make sure you cycle safely on Westminster’s streets.

Many of the courses are FREE of charge, and all are run by professional, qualified instructors.

To find out more, or to book a course or session: Visit www.cycleconfident.com Call the Road Safety team on 020 7641 2016 / 4095

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Take care, don’t listen to music or check your phone when crossing the road.

CONTENTS

3

Piccadilly Circus

6 Do more online 10 Westminster Mile 12 Your Westminster 27 Help to quit smoking PLUS Win theatre tickets

The Westminster Reporter is produced as part of Westminster City Council’s customer service programme.

Cabinet Member responsible for The Reporter: Councillor Robert Davis, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for the Built Environment.

The Westminster Reporter is delivered to homes and businesses throughout Westminster.

If you encounter delivery problems, please call the communications team on 020 7641 8088.

Also available from libraries and leisure centres.

The editorial team: Sofia Nikolaou, Jo Hooper and Clym Sutcliffe.

Printed by Service Point UK Ltd, 161-165 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3AL.

For general enquiries, call the council switchboard on 020 7641 6000.

Advertising: please contact Mohsin Lahkim on 020 7641 6088, or mlahkim@westminster.gov.uk.uk .

Printed on FSC® certified material.

To discuss editorial matters, please contact: The Editor, The Westminster Reporter, 18th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria St, London, SW1E 6QP. Telephone: 020 7641 3129 Fax: 020 7641 2958 Email: reporter@westminster.gov.uk Minicom: 020 7641 2948

Reference copies of The Westminster Reporter are available in large print and audiotape format. To have a free copy sent to your home call 020 7641 5295.

Published by Westminster City Council, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP.

Please recycle The Westminster Reporter.

For more information on recycling call the Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000.

@CityWestminster Follow us on

Lots on at Marylebone Library There’s plenty to do at Marylebone Library. From reading and writers’ groups, to children’s craft sessions and employment advice, visit the events page to find out more. westminster.gov.uk/mbnevents

Venue space for new businesses Maida Hill Place is a new community space which supports local enterprise and for those looking to start their own business, it is a great place to run or test a business. For more information about the venue and hire costs visit maidahillplace.co.uk

Smart parking in Westminster We are the first authority in Europe to install parking bay sensors on-street to help drivers locate available spaces and cut congestion.

Over 3,000 sensors will be installed in bays across the West End and a free mobile phone app will allow motorists to identify parking spaces in real time. Find out more and download the app at westminster.gov.uk/ baysensorparking

Your neighbourhood plan Are you interested in influencing development in your neighbourhood?

Twenty five neighbourhood area applications have been submitted by communities covering 85% of Westminster. To find out more and get involved visit westminster.gov.uk/ neighbourhoodforums

5 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

@CityWestminster

News in Brief

NEWS IN BRIEF

4

Free activities for the over 50s The Big Shout Westminster’s young residents will get to have their say on issues ranging from staying safe to accessing local services at this year’s Big Shout in June. Employers will also be on hand to talk to 14-19 year-olds about the world of work. westminster. gov.uk/services/young people/ the-big-shout

Have your wedding in the heart of London Are you planning your wedding? Westminster has over 140 venues to choose from, including Mayfair Library, its newest and most intimate setting. westminster. gov.uk/registrar

Recycle on the go It’s just as easy to recycle when you’re out and about as it is at home. Just use one of the hundreds of green and black litter bins across Westminster: black for rubbish and green for recycling. westminster. gov.uk/recycling

Open Age offer over 350 free and low cost weekly activities for residents aged 50 and over. Activities vary from yoga, chair exercise and walking groups to creative and performing arts sessions and weekly groups with speakers as well as a regular outings group. Visit openage.org.uk/activities

Free sports clubs

Aquatherapy sessions available Aquatherapy and aqua exercise sessions are now available at The Dementia Resource Centre for residents with disabilities and those who are rehabilitating following injury. For more information call 07849 294 396 or email w2hydrotherapy@waterbabies.co.uk.

Calling all 17-24 year olds Registering to vote is quick and easy and it gives you the opportunity to get your opinion heard. If you feel like politicians aren’t listening to young people, registering to vote is your chance to change things and be heard.

Register today, visit changethingsnow.co.uk

Exclusive discounts for Westminster residents

Neighbourhood Sports Clubs are free for eight to 19-year-olds. From football to free running, boxing to judo, there’s something for all ages and abilities. westminster.gov.uk/ sportandleisure

Can you sign up to swap one thing every day for a healthier option?

Register and find ideas, suggestions and support, smartswaps/ change4life.co.uk

*Only 44% of 18-24 year olds voted in the last general election, compared to 76% of over 65’s.

Visit www.changethingsnow.co.uk @changethingsnow #hearmyvote IER_A5 flyer_ I want the government

to_aw.indd 1

07/01/2014 11:04

Employment training in schools After a successful pilot we’re rolling out our Employability Passport programme across our schools. The programme prepares students for the world of work through workshops and projects which help children in Years 7-11 develop skills that will make them more appealing to employers. westminster.gov.uk/passporttowork

Let’s get Kick start sw apping a healthy new you

Local supporters’ to

“I WANT THE GOVERNMENT TO LISTEN TO YOUNG PEOPLE”* Got an opinion?

Get heard.

Register to vote.

If you would like to get fit, spend more time with your family, eat out or see more of the great city you live in, all at a discounted price, sign up for a free City Save card today. Visit westminster.gov.uk/ citysave

Services for young people The Little Book of Westminster is a free directory which lists the local services that can support young people on their journey to further education, training or employment. westminster. gov.uk/littlebookof westminster

Get help into work The Fit for Work Service (run by Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust) provides free advice and support to people who live or work in Westminster and who are on short term sick leave in order to help them return to, or remain at work. For further information call 0208 962 4227 or visit clch.nhs.uk/fitforwork

An introdu to making healthier f and drink

Smart Swap is a registered trade mark

of the Li

6

7

Customer Services

Helping you do more online

An exciting year for Westminster Around this time last year I announced my five-year plan, Better City, Better Lives, to improve Westminster and make it a safer, healthier, more connected and more enterprising place for all.

Our new website will make it quicker and easier for you to access services, find information and do more online than ever before.

M

arch sees the launch of the first in a series of improvements to our website as part of our commitment to increase and improve the services we offer online.

The improvements we have made are as a direct result of the feedback we have received from residents and businesses in the city asking us to make access to certain services online easier.

Over the next year you will notice more changes as new features gradually become available.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Some of the new features now available:

A completely new design to make your experience easier and quicker

Simplified content based on the questions you ask the most

Better online search – so you can find the information you want quicker

Quicker, simpler process for applying for a library card

A new pre-planning advice form to help you get your planning application through more easily, and regular notifications to update you on the status of your planning application

You will be able to see the photographic evidence we have so you can understand why you were issued with a parking ticket.

I Report problems on the move A

s well as applying for services online we have also made it easier for you to let us know about problems you see whilst you’re on the move.

We know that potholes, dog fouling, noise and dumped rubbish are a real nuisance. Although we monitor our streets daily and ensure damaged roads are fixed and streets are cleaned, we can respond to problems in your area more quickly if you tell us about them. Don’t assume that someone else has reported it because the chances are they haven’t.

T o report a problem from your mobile or tablet, visit westminster.gov.uk/report-it and just select the nature of the problem you want to report. Once you have added in a few details about the location of the problem you can upload a photo of what you have seen and send it to us straight away.

Other changes you will see over the coming months:

Book and pay for a wedding online

Find relevant information about services based on your location

Tell us what you think

W

n the first year of the plan, we have already made real progress.

Through a solid, practical approach and financial prudence we have been able Dareena Kasim found a career to invest in our services as a nursery nusery nurse nursethrough throughthe the and the city, whilst passing workplace workplacecoordinator coordinatorscheme scheme on savings to you.

I’m pleased to say that we will freeze council tax once again. We are already cheaper than neighbouring Brent and Camden and we expect to remain the lowest council tax in the country.

One of the top priorities for the council is to help people of all ages and circumstances find work and get on the career ladder. Our successful workplace co-ordinator scheme has already helped over 500 people into jobs.

We also want to help prepare youngsters and give them the best possible chance of securing the career they want in the future. The Employability Passport is a new programme to help school children in Years 6, 7 and 8 develop skills that make them attractive to employers. We successfully piloted the programme at St Augustine’s School at the end of last year and it is now being rolled out to schools across Westminster, Hammersmith & Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea.

In 2012 we launched Silver Sunday, a day in October dedicated to the celebration of our older residents. This special day gives older people the chance to try new things, keep active and make new friends by taking part in a day of free activities across the city. Last year it went national, with 11 counties and 10 other London boroughs participating on the day. We have high hopes for it to go even further this year.

It has been an exciting year, but there is still much more to do while the financial climate remains tough for local government. I am determined that we will continue to improve the lives of all those who live in, work in and visit Westminster.

e’re improving our website constantly and we would welcome your feedback about the new site.

E mail websitefeedback@westminster.gov.uk to tell us what you think.

Cllr Philippa Roe, Leader of Westminster City Council

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

LEADER’S COLUMN

8

Better City, Better Lives

This year we have frozen council tax for the seventh year, which we expect will once again make Westminster the lowest tax borough in the country.

L

ow tax, protecting frontline services and investing in the future is possible largely through our successful partnership with Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea councils. This arrangement has enabled us to make substantial savings by pooling our resources and being even more efficient in the way we work.

Innovative thinking makes it possible for us to continue to achieve our goals and invest in the areas we know will make the biggest difference to people’s lives. Our five year plan sets out three priorities which we believe are key to making Westminster a place where people can thrive.

A safer, healthier city

A more connected city

I

W

n our new role overseeing public health we are investing over £1m this year in programmes to help people lose weight and quit smoking both of which can lead to serious illnesses.

Eunice Acheampong secured a top job through our workplace co-ordinators scheme

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

We are making changes to improve care homes in Westminster because we want to make sure all residents have the necessary facilities and care available as their needs change.

We are also investing £8.5m into the city’s roads and infrastructure and working with the Metropolitan Police to make our roads safer for cyclists.

A more enterprising city

e want to make it possible for more people to play an active part in their community. To do this we are creating more opportunities for people to volunteer as much or as little time as they can spare.

Through our housing renewal programmes we are putting residents at the heart of decision making. Our programme will see the major renewal of five areas across the city and the building of 1000 new homes to help address the housing shortage.

W

e will continue to fund our workplace co-ordinator scheme, which helps those looking for work find a job and get started in their careers.

We are also investing in more enterprise spaces in the north of the city to support those wishing to start up their own businesses.

Gwen Skull and Betty, volunteer befrienders For details visit westminster.gov.uk/bettercitybetterlives

Your mixed recycling collection is weekly Step 1

Step 2

Order your free recycling Put all your recyclable bags or container from items together into your your housing manager or recycling bag or container. caretaker, or contact us.

You can recycle:

Step 3 Leave it out on your recycling collection day or put it in your nearest mixed recycling bin which may be in your building.

Tip: Flatten your cardboard boxes and add to your mixed recycling

Contact us • to order free recycling bags or a container • to find your rubbish and recycling collection days and times • to find your nearest on-street micro recycling centre

Visit: westminster.gov.uk/recycling Call: 020 7641 2000 Email: recycling@westminster.gov.uk If you have a housing manager or caretaker please ask them for details of your rubbish and recycling services.

9 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

What we’re doing to create a better city and better lives

Z ahraa and her father Safaa Razaq joined our healthy eating programme

Your recycling guide Tea Dance

RE

Health

E TR TS

11

Health

N GE

10

LLY

DI

CA

PIC

ND

TRAFALGAR SQ

ET

RA

PICCADILLY CIRCUS

ST PUR STRE ET

T IN SA S’S ME JA

LL

PA

L AL

E

TH

ADMIRALTY ARCH

N

TO

C

HO

RS

E

BO RL

MA

HYDE PARK CORNER

LL

HORSE GUARDS PARADE

A

U RO

EM

TH

GH

AL W

GUARDS

NS EE

RD

QU

GREEN PARK

K

HORS

ROAD

SP UR

GREAT GE ORGE

RD

BI

TE

“The race itself was such fun. All of us had different running abilities so we just ran our own races.”

BU

I

CK

BU

GA

CK IN GH AM GA VICTORIA TE

TOTHILL STREET

PARLIAMENT SQ

RAN

F TTY

PE

CE

STOREY’S GATE

QUEEN ANNE GA.

ALK AGE W

AM

WEST

ST

E WALK RDCAG

BIRDC

H NG

KING CHAR LES STREET

A

ST JAMES’S PARK

I OR

ET

RE

ST

CT

VI

A race for everyone

O

rganised by London Marathon in partnership with Westminster City Council, the Bupa Westminster T TREE RIA S O T IC Mile is a day-long series of mile races held on roads made V famous during the 2012 Olympic Games.

Kirsty Wilkins

Westminster Mile 2014 When: Saturday 24th May Venue: Starting line is on the Mall, finishing outside Buckingham Palace.

Sagar Barua (left with Kirsty Wilkins)

country so it really is a great way to catch up and do something a bit different.”

T o find out more about Westminster Mile visit bupawestminstermile.co.uk

There are races for everyone – families, adults and veterans, juniors, wheelchair users and elite athletes.

Runners, supporters and visitors will be able to enjoy stalls and entertainment in Green Park both during and after the races – the perfect way to spend the bank holiday weekend.

PARLIAMENT STREET

HILL

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

make sure we get a good turnout for 2014!

“It’s quite difficult to find time to see old friends once everyone has moved to different parts of the city or

ND

L

ST JAMES’S PARK

unning definitely isn’t something that comes naturally to me. But when I saw that the council was organising the Westminster Mile, I thought it sounded manageable – even for non-runners like me!

bank holiday.

“Because we all had such a fantastic time, we’re making it an annual reunion event.

We sent Facebook invites to our old university friends to

RLA

AL

EM

“R

running abilities so we just ran our own races. Luckily, the weather was in our favour. Afterwards we had a picnic in the park and made the most of the sunny

MBE

TH

CONSTITUTION

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

THU

EM

US

HO

L AR

Novice runner Kirsty Wilkins, 36, formerly from Pimlico, ran the Westminster Mile last summer. This year, not only is she running it again but she’s doing it with a group of old university friends.

“After chatting about it with a couple of old uni friends, we all decided to sign up. We had t-shirts made up to make it into a mini university reunion.

We put the Bupa Westminster Mile logo on the back and the name of our university hall on the front.

“We met before the event so we could all catch up.

Rob – one of the guys I was running with – brought his wife and daughter along for some moral support.

“The race itself was such fun. All of us had different

L MA

ET RE

IC

P

L

ST

LY

IL

D CA

NOR

CE

RA

R TE

EHA WHIT

‘The race itself was such fun’

GREEN PARK

The Westminster Reporter L|L westminster.gov.uk

COCKS

Cost: The entry fee is £8.00 for entrants 18 and over (£7.00 if you are a Westminster resident) and £6.00 for nine to 17-yearolds (£5.00 if you are a Westminster resident). Children under nine are free.

Categories: There are several different categories suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

Enter now bupawestminstermile.co.uk

12

Your Westminster

north Church Street

What’s changing in your area Westminster is thriving and changing, with new developments and facilities being built across the city. In the north of the city, three of our housing regeneration areas are aiming to create bustling neighbourhoods with better housing, more community facilities and new job opportunities.

Queen’s Park

A

fter residents voted in favour of proposals, we have now received planning permission for two purpose built community facilities to replace the existing children’s services on Luton Street. This makes way for the proposal to develop between 130 and 150 new homes including around 50 new affordable homes plus a community play facility. We have submitted planning proposals for a new, ultra-modern community health and wellbeing hub at Lisson Grove which will bring together GPs, dentists and out of hospital services, plus housing management, in one location. Also submitted are plans for a 59 unit sheltered housing scheme, together with an enterprise centre to support local small and start-up businesses.

Paddington Green

Concessionary rate tickets at the Puppet Theatre Barge Enjoy a performance of the much-loved classic ‘A Child’s Garden of Verses’ in a unique theatre experience on the picturesque Regent’s Canal Date: 22nd March-18th May

Date: Valid until 31st May

S

ubject to formal planning approval, we will create a new state-of-the-art £17.5million sports centre on the Moberly site and an upgraded community sports facility at Jubilee.

Part of the proposal is a better synthetic pitch at St Augustine’s School and an upgraded free to use games area and fitness equipment at Queen’s Park Gardens. This is funded largely through the development of 155 new homes including high quality replacement affordable homes.

Westbourne Green

Venue: Puppet Theatre Barge, Blomfield Road, W9 2PF

circlesports.org 0207 724 8088 Venue: 99 Church Street, NW8 8EY

T

here are several proposals, which will be put to a resident vote later this year, including developing a more vibrant Harrow Road with improved shops, cafes and restaurants, safer crossings, more trees and open spaces. Making the most of the canal side and Westbourne Green Park are also priorities, together with better homes that meet the needs of local people.

Canal boats moored at Little Venice, 1973

What’s on Queen’s Park Children Centre Activities throughout the week, including Stay and Play sessions, family support, parenting and advice, healthy lifestyle and well-being activities and services for children with additional needs.

Venue:88 Bravington Road, London W9 3AL

Hidden Gems

Cost: Free

Tell us your favourite places and you could win theatre tickets. See page 23.

“ “ “

Alfie’s Antiques Market is one of my favourite places in Westminster. It’s a paradise to everything vintage and antique where you can completely immerse yourself for hours.”

Rashmi Becker from Marylebone Baker & Spice on Clifton Road have lovely fresh cakes and organic foods – you can just taste the freshness.”

Fatima Busefi from St John’s Wood

W

History in pictures

15% off at the Circle Sports store Get the latest sports clothing, footwear and apparel at Circle Sports, a community social enterprise helping local young people find employment and learn valuable skills. Quote ‘Westminster Reporter’ to claim.

020 7249 6876

The Hall Park Estate

e are developing plans for the estate following a positive vote from residents. The plans include 45 new homes at Parsons North on an existing concrete podium, major landscaping and environmental improvements around Hall Place, Crompton Street and Parsons House plus a transformed lobby area for Parsons House.

Offers in your OFFERS INarea YOUR AREA

Nearest Tube: Queen’s Park 020 7641 5838

Comedy at the Canal Café Theatre Perched on the edge of the canal in Little Venice, the Canal Café Theatre is a thriving comedy and new writing venue offering up to 14 performances a week.

Venue: Delamere Terrace, Little Venice, London, W2 6ND Cost: From £6

Fatima Busefi

One of my favourite places to go in Westminster is a little Greek restaurant called Tsiakkos & Charcoal. From the outside you wouldn’t know it was anything, but inside it’s a really cute restaurant. It’s a neighbourhood secret.”

Nicholas McAvaney from Maida Vale

Nearest Tube: Warick Avenue 020 7289 6056

Canalway Cavalcade 3rd-5th May A unique waterways and community festival in Little Venice. There’ll be fun for all ages with a boaters’ gathering, a pageant of boats, trade

shows and stalls, bands, kids’ activities, competitions, Morris Dancers and a wide variety of snacks and food.

Venue: Little Venice Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Warwick Avenue canalway.cavalcade@ waterways.org.uk

Spring Fling! At the Wallace Collection 24th April, 10.30am-12.15pm and 2pm-3.45pm Celebrate the passing of spring at this fun filled drop in art and craft workshop. Ages 6+.

Venue: The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, London, W1U 3BN Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Baker Street, Bond Street 020 7563 9500

Neighbourhood Sports Clubs – Slacklining Wednesdays, 4.30-6pm Venue: Moberly Sports Centre, Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH Cost: Free 020 7641 4807

13 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Your Westminster

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Your Westminster

Fatima Busefi

14

Your Westminster

Your Westminster

Victoria Street

What’s changing in your area Central Westminster takes in some of the most iconic sites in the country and there are major changes taking place to improve the city even further.

New Marylebone Library

I

n Marylebone, plans for a new, state of the art three storey library on Luxborough Street have been given the go-ahead.

The new Marylebone Library will be a significant addition to the local community with a new and much improved library, café, exhibition area and computer study areas. The development also includes nine flats for private sale to be built on the three floors above the library, which will help offset the cost.

W

alking down Victoria Street you will see a total transformation underway. Victoria Tube station is due a major upgrade, which will make it easier to get around. The new station is likely to be completed by 2018. Meanwhile, developer Land Securities is transforming the shopping and office environment with more than a million square feet of high specification office space along Victoria Street, with new shops, restaurants and a cinema due to open later this year.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Green Plaques

O

ur city has a rich heritage, which we celebrate through Green Plaques to draw attention to buildings associated with people who have made lasting contributions to society.

One of central Westminster’s most iconic Green Plaques is on the site of the British premiere of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony at John Nash’s Argyll Rooms Concert Hall at 252 Regent Street, W1. The plaque was unveiled in July last year by the Royal Philharmonic Society’s Chairman John Gilhooly.

Mayfair & Belgravia

A

partnership between the council and Grosvenor Estates of Mayfair and Belgravia has seen us working together on improvements to streets and public spaces in the area including Mount Street, Elizabeth Street, North Audley Street and Bourdon Place. Funded

by Grosvenor Estates, work continues around Brown Hart Gardens to complement the recently opened café and starts next on Grosvenor Hill with new high quality paving and road resurfacing, more trees, seating and feature lighting.

Queensway

F

urther west, shopping in Queensway is due to be improved by property investment firm Meyer Bergman over the next six years. The council and partners are consulting on a range of pedestrian improvements around Whiteleys shopping centre and up to Hyde Park that could include wider pavements, higher quality paving, new tree planting and the introduction of dedicated delivery zones.

Offers in your OFFERS INarea YOUR AREA 20% off your final bill at Match Bar Located just off Oxford Street, Match Bar is perfect for all those looking for a coffee, light lunch, or even dinner. To claim, you must book in advance on 0207 629 7551 and quote ‘Westminster Reporter.’

Date: Until 31st May matchbar.com 0207 629 7551 Venue: Match Bar, 37-38 Margaret Street, W1G 0JF.

25% off your food bill at The Real Greek Covent Garden The Real Greek in Covent Garden serves a delicious selection of mezze, grills, souvlaki and sharers. Valid Mon-Thur. Quote ‘Westminster

History in pictures

Reporter’ to claim.

Date: Until May 31st therealgreek.com 020 7240 2292 Venue: The Real Greek, 60-62 Long Acre, WC2E 9JE.

Free freshly made lemonade with any wrap or main course Fresh, fast and tasty food at widely acclaimed Comptoir Libanais. Choose from middle eastern delights such as mezze, salads, pastries, cakes and more. Quote ‘‘Comptoir Cookbook’ to claim.

Date: Until 31st May lecomptoir.co.uk 020 7434 4335 Venue: 59 Broadwick Street, W1F 9QH and 65 Wigmore Street, W1U 1JT.

Very different traffic at Oxford Circus, 1890-1900

What’s on Feast of St. George in Trafalgar Square

March-27th April

Celebrate St George’s Day with a whole host of free events including parades, food festivals, children’s activities and the annual Feast of St George in Trafalgar Square.

Discoveries is the first major exhibition to bring together collections from the University of Cambridge museums. The programme is an exhibition of events including performing arts, workshops, talks and activities for children.

Cost: Free

Tell us your favourite places and you could win theatre tickets. See page 23.

“ “ “

The Algerian Coffee Store on Old Compton Street is absolutely phenomenal with its strong smell of coffee.”

Harvey Gould from St John’s Wood

Nearest Tube: Charing Cross, Embankment, Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square

Covent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival 11th May, 10am

Harvey Gould

I love Kensington Gardens for a stroll and sitting by the Serpentine sipping coffee in one of the two cafes there. All wrapped up and cosy from the chilly air, especially in the autumn.”

John Glennon from Royal Oak The food at Honest Burgers in Soho is so good.

They serve the food in baskets and drinks in jam jars and it has a great atmosphere.”

Nick Driver from Westminster

Discover art, science and exploration

23rd April

Venue: Trafalgar Square

Hidden Gems

15

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

central

Your Westminster

The annual celebration in Covent Garden brings dozens of puppeteers in a colourful and highly entertaining afternoon as well as folk music, dancers, clowns, jugglers and stalls.

Venue: St Paul’s Covent Garden, Bedford Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9ED Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Covent Garden, Leicester Square 020 7375 0441

Venue: 2 Temple Place, WC2R 3BD Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Covent Garden, Temple 020 7836 37158

Sunday Stroll skating Sundays, 2pm A relaxed slow speed marshalled street skate in central London.

Open to rollerblade and rollerskate skaters and children if accompanied by an adult.

Venue: Serpentine Road, Hyde ParkH Cost: Free lfns.co.uk

16

Your Westminster

Your Westminster

south

Your Westminster

What’s changing in your area Two of the council’s major housing schemes are located in the south of the city – Churchill Gardens in Pimlico and Ebury Bridge in Victoria.

Ebury Bridge University Technical College

W

e have submitted plans to the Department for Education for a hugely exciting addition to the provision of vocational education in Westminster.

Delivered in partnership with the Sir Simon Milton foundation, Network Rail and the University of Westminster, we propose to open a new University Technical College.

P

lans have been submitted for up to 100 new homes and better public spaces, bringing more affordable and private housing to the heart of central London that complements the architectural quality of the existing mansion block estate.

Green Plaques

Offers in your OFFERS INarea YOUR AREA 30% off all waxing services

3.30-5.30pm (primary age).

Treat yourself at family run appuru Salon Pimlico, offering only the best fairtrade, natural and organic beauty products. Quote ‘Westminster Reporter’ to claim.

Venue: Westminster Music Library, Victoria Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD.

Date: Until 31st May. appuru.co.uk 020 7828 0101 Venue: appuru, 43 Moreton Street, SW1V 2NY.

Free family music workshop Take part in a free music making group workshop with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Open to families with children aged 2-11 years and all abilities. Must book in advance.

Date: 3rd May, 2.153.15pm (early years) and

020 7641 4263

50% off top price tickets at St John’s Smith Square Enjoy an evening of sublime music by Chopin and Schubert from the acclaimed Austrian pianist Paul BaduraSkoda at St John’s Smith Square. Quote ‘Westminster Reporter’ to claim. Offer applies to in person and telephone bookings only and is subject to availability.

Date: 10th May, 7.30pm.

Hidden Gems Tell us your favourite places and you could win theatre tickets. See page 23.

“ “ “

The tiny strip of green tranquilly that is Milbank Gardens next to Tate Britain is my favourite place. It’s perfect for a picnic and offers a rare space for contemplation.”

Duncan Mclauchlan, from Westminster.

Westminster Abbey is so rich in history. It’s one of my favourites; if only the walls could speak.”

Sindi Hearn from Marylebone.

My favourite place in Westminster is St. Georges’ Square in Pimlico. It’s an oasis of peace and beauty in the heart of London. It’s a perfect location for spring and summer family picnics, autumn walks and snow fights in winter.”

Agnieszka Murphy from Pimlico.

sjss.org.ukk 020 7222 0161 Venue: St John’s Smith Square, SW1P 3HA.

Churchill Gardens History in pictures

What’s on Churchill Gardens Children’s Centre

Wednesdays, 6.15-8.45pm

Venue: Churchill Gardens Primary School, Johnson’s Place, SW1V 3EU

Nearest Tube: St James’s Park

Nearest Tube: Pimlico 020 7641 5923

O A

t Churchill Gardens we are working with local residents to explore options for improved school buildings, better play spaces for children and young people, modern residential, nursing care and housing facilities for older people, and attractive open and green spaces.

Venue: St Andrews Youth Club, Alec Wizard House, 12 Old Pye Street, SW1P 2DG Cost: Free 020 7222 6481

Tate Britain Weekends, 11am-4pm

28th March, 25th April, 30th May, 6-10.30pm

Open Studio, experiment with materials and make sculptures inspired by artwork in the Tate collection

Venue: Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD

Venue: Millbank, SW1P 4RG

Cost: Free

Cost: Free

Nearest Tube: South Kensington

Nearest Tube: Pimlico

Natural History Museum

St James Church in Piccadilly showing bomb damage during the Second World War, 1940-1941

Neighbourhood Sports Boxing

Activities throughout the week, including Stay and Play session, family support, parenting and advice, healthy lifestyle and wellbeing activities and services for children with additional needs

Cost: Free

ur city has a rich heritage, which we celebrate through Green Plaques to draw attention to buildings associated with people who have made lasting contributions to society.

One of South Westminster’s most famous Green Plaques is that of Sir Winston Churchill at his childhood home. The plaque was unveiled by Churchill’s daughter, Lady Soames, along with Lord Rothschild in July last year. You can see the plaque at 29 St. James’s Place, SW1.

Sindi Hearn

020 7942 5000

020 7887 8888

17

18

What’s on in your local library

Libraries

A new way of managing libraries is due to make over one million books available to all residents in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Hammersmith and Fulham. Just one card will give you access to the resources of 21 libraries across the three boroughs.

I

f you’re new to computers or want to improve your web surfing skills, a computer taster session at your local library is an ideal place to start. Taster sessions can last for up to an hour and are bookable in advance at a time to suit you.

somewhere to hold a meeting, want to learn how to surf the web, take a knitting class or enjoy a craft session with your children, our libraries have it all.

N

W

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/tastersessions

Shepherds Bush Library

Westminster Music Library estminster’s awardwinning Music Library first opened its doors to the public in 1948 on the back of a private collection. Since then, it has grown to become the largest public music library in London. Situated within Victoria Library, the Music Library has, as with most libraries, had to evolve to survive. Now, as well as loaning out scores and books, it keeps a social media presence and delivers a host of events and outreach activities with partners, such as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

f you’re aged between 7 and 13, come to a homework club and take advantage of a wide range of books, computers, internet access and photocopiers. There are also plenty of staff around to help answer your questions.

Internet and email training for older people

More than just books s well as thousands of books, all of our libraries offer a range of services and resources for residents of all ages and lifestyles to enjoy. So whether you are looking for

I

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/homeworkclubs

Here we pick three unique libraries across the three boroughs, which you are free to enjoy and explore.

A

Help with your homework

Chelsea Library

C

helsea Library is housed within the Chelsea Old Town Hall on the King’s Road. While the charming setting and in-house Chelsea Gallery will appeal to those who appreciate more traditional libraries, Wi-Fi hotspots, computer facilities and a refurbished children’s library makes sure Chelsea Library offers more than just books.

estled against the Westfield London Shopping Centre and sitting below a stylish Jamie Oliver rooftop restaurant is Shepherds Bush Library. Opened in 2010, this modern £2m library breaks the traditional library mould and fits its bustling, glittering surroundings. Over 1,000 people use the library every day for studying, entertaining their kids, reading and surfing the web. As the big lettering in the street-facing window says, Shepherds Bush is “more than a library”.

Get reading with a group

J

oin a Westminster library reading group and make new friends whilst discussing the topics and themes from a range of literature. If you want to set up your own group, Westminster libraries have a collection of duplicate books you can borrow, and we’ll be happy to advise you on how to set up a group.

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/reading-groupsep

Advice on how to be healthier

W

estminster libraries hold a wide range of health events on a regular basis. You can go to free drop-in health checks and get advice on a number of topics from healthy eating to stroke prevention. The events are updated regularly so always check library’s news and events page.

For more information visit westminster.gov.uk/healthinfo

Get advice on employment

I

n partnership with recruitment experts from the local area, Westminster libraries hold regular drop-in surgeries for people that need help getting back to work.

Advice will be given to help you search for jobs, write your CV and with job applications.

F or more information visit westminster.gov.uk/libraries

Find out where and when at westminster.gov.uk/employmentadvice

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

One card, one million books

19

20

Business

Business

‘The funding is crucial’

Starting and running a business can be daunting for first-time entrepreneurs and business veterans alike. Across Westminster, services are on hand to provide guidance and financial support to budding entrepreneurs, helping them to bring their business ideas to life.

Tom Halpenny has been able to continue providing band workshops for young people thanks to funding from our small grants scheme.

Getting started

A

n expert opinion can be the key to business success.

At the Westminster Enterprise Centre, residents can speak to fully qualified business advisers, providing one-to-one business advice. The centre also runs workshops on the myths and realities of selfemployment, giving would-be entrepreneurs a taste of running their own business. estminster Enterprise Centre, 59 Elgin Avenue, London W9 2DB. W Telephone 020 7266 0636 or visit enterprisecentre.org.uk

Finding office space

F

or those looking for office space with a difference, Impact Hub Westminster provides flexible access to workspace and the opportunity to join a community of thousands of socially and environmentally responsible businesses.

Impact Hub Westminster, 1st Floor, New Zealand House, 80 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TE. Telephone 020 7148 6720 or visit westminster.impacthub.net

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

F or more information on the support that can help you make your business a success, visit: westminster.gov.uk/business

Tom Halpenny

Impact Hub Westminster

Finding your first job

F

or 16-24 year-olds the Little Book of Westminster is packed full of tips on getting on the career ladder and lists the organisations that can help young people find work, whether in an established company or in their very own business. ownload the Little Book of Westminster at D westminster.gov.uk/findingwork

O

rganisations can bid for up to £5,000 from the £100,000 fund. In the last two years, 40 have been successful including community interest company Musicus, which will receive £5,000 to provide a series of guitar and band workshops for young people in the local community for a second year.

Tom Halpenny, who set up Musicus, said: “When I heard about the small grants fund, I thought that it might be appropriate for us. The

“One of the aims is to plant the seed for something that might become a life-long passion.”

Tom Halpenny

funding is absolutely crucial.

“I was really pleased when the funding was approved. It means that we are able to go back and continue the work that we made so much

progress with last year, but also to spread the word and bring in new people who are interested in being involved.

“We got the young people to a certain stage last year, but now we will be able to take them further.

“One of the aims is to plant the seed for something that might become a life-long passion or may lead them into an area of work that they hadn’t considered before.”

F or more information on our small grants fund, to check if you are eligible and to apply for funding, visit westminster.gov.uk/smallgrants

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Getting your business off the ground

21

22

WIN!

Heritage

Situated in the heart of the West End, Leicester Square has been a focal point for Londoners and visitors alike for decades. In 2013 alone, more than 80 million people passed through the iconic area, which plays host to around 52 film premieres each year.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

C imon Thomas, CEO of The Hippodrome Casino who has been involved in Leicester Square for over five years and invested £40 million in transforming the famous venue, said:

Simon Thomas

Piccadilly Circus, looking towards the London Pavilion, 1913

Shaftesbury Monument Memorial Fountain, was erected in 1892 to commemorate the work of Anthony Cooper, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, who worked tirelessly in aid of the poor.

Although it is commonly

referred to as Eros, the Greek god of love, the statue is actually of Eros’s brother, Anteros. It has had a colourful history, withstanding numerous assaults dating back as far as 1937 – most recently by over-zealous football fans,

who bent the archer’s bow and broke its’ string while celebrating in 2011. Despite these setbacks, he retains pride of place in Piccadilly Circus, watching over the millions of tourists, shoppers and workers who pass under his watch.

ycle at the same venue that saw Sir Chris Hoy and Dame Sarah Storey ride to victory during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. If you win you can choose from a session on the state-of-theart London 2012 velodrome track, mountain bike trails, one mile floodlit road circuit or remodelled Olympic BMX track.

S

“Leicester Square welcomes the world dropping in on what London – and the UK – does best.”

S

o where did it all begin?

Leicester Square was named after Robert Sidney, the 2nd Earl of Leicester, who purchased four acres in what was then St Martin’s Field in 1630. The Square went into public ownership in 1848, and soon became known as a lively entertainment venue – a reputation that has grown ever since, as theatre after theatre was built in the surrounding area.

It is fitting, therefore, that its longest-standing inhabitant should be the greatest playwright Britain has ever produced. The Shakespeare statue has been a constant feature for 140 years, and was recently restored to pristine condition as part of a £17 million revamp of the square completed last year. It is the only outdoor statue of the Bard in central London.

Sitting in the centre of another iconic London destination is a statue with an equally unique place in London’s cultural landscape. The Eros statue, or, more accurately, the

Win tickets to ride at the Velodrome

“It’s hard work running a business in Leicester Square because it’s one of the busiest and most high profile places in the world.

“But the hard work is nicely balanced by the sense of sheer privilege and excitement at being a part of the fabric of what is the true heart of the West End in one of the greatest cities on earth.

“Thanks to the determination and hard work of the council to invest in the area, smartening up the infrastructure and attracting many impressive new businesses, it’s now the jewel in the crown.

“Leicester Square welcomes the world dropping in on what London – and the UK – does best.”

Win top price tickets to see Fatal Attraction!

West End Live is back and is set to be bigger and better than ever before as 2014 marks the tenth anniversary of Westminster City Council’s annual showcase event.

L

ast year over 200,000 festival goers were treated to stellar performances from over 30 West End musicals including Billy Elliot, The Bodyguard and the Jersey Boys as well as exclusive previews from never-seen-before shows.

A showcase of London’s art and culture, there were also interactive exhibits and activities on offer from London’s top museums, galleries and cultural institutions, ensuring there was something for all the family to enjoy.

Don’t miss out on the biggest free event this summer; get the dates in your diary now.

West End LIVE 21st and 22nd June Venue: Trafalgar Square Cost: Free entry Nearest Tube: Charing Cross, Embankment, Leicester Square Keep up to date with the latest information: westendlive.co.uk @WestEndLive facebook.com/westendLIVE

West End LIVE is presented

by Westminster City Council and the Society of London Theatre in association with MasterCard.

S

ee the classic film on stage for the first time at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. The famous story of obsession and revenge explores how a chance meeting in a bar and a casual encounter quickly becomes a living nightmare for Dan Gallagher, a successful New York lawyer, and his young family.

Shows run from 11th March - 21st June 2014. For more information visit trh.co.uk.

Winning tickets are valid Monday-Thursday until 24th April 2014.

How to enter

For your chance to win any of these prizes please email reporter@westminster.gov.uk telling us your favourite places in Westminster. State either CYCLING or FATAL ATTRACTION in the subject title to specify the prize you would like to win. You can also send a postal entry, Reporter Competition, Westminster City Council, 18th Floor, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP. Closing date for both competition entries is 6th April.

Terms and conditions apply. Prizes are as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative will be offered .

23 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Historic Westminster: Leicester Square and Piccadilly

Competitions

24

Volunteering

25

Volunteering

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

One good thing… leads to another By doing one good thing to help others, you can help make Westminster an even better place to live.

Nominations are open

Volunteer your way N

o matter what your circumstances, there’s always a way to do something good in the community.

Volunteering doesn’t necessarily mean committing to do something on a certain day every week. There are opportunities for every resident and we want to make those choices clear and simple so that you are able to volunteer your way.

We’re here to help point you in the right direction – whether you’ve retired and want to meet new people, gain new skills to help you find employment or to contribute to the community so your children grow up in a positive environment.

Volunteer Centre Westminster can help match the right volunteering opportunity to suit your lifestyle.

So take on the challenge and do one good thing today.

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

A

slam Khan, from Pimlico has already taken on the volunteering challenge.

He has been playing with the London Tigers since 1985. He started volunteering with the team shortly afterwards and has been doing it ever since.

Aslam said: “I started playing with the London Tigers in 1985 – I still remember scoring my first goal at the Westminster Youth Tournament in the same year! After I’d been playing for the team for a while, I was keen to become more involved and so I volunteered to coach and help manage the team.

“I especially love working with the younger players... some have even gone to play at professional level.”

Aslam Khan

This came with lots of responsibilities – I washed kits, arranged match fixtures and organised referees. And it’s never stopped from there really.

“I’ve always loved exercise and football in particular. That’s why I wanted to became more involved in the team. I love the challenge and excitement of competitive sport and I

Say thank you to your local hero by nominating them for a Community Award.

e and St John’s

d John Macdonal ership Awar d (centre), winner of the 2013 Bringing Yout rs of 2013 Partn h Secu People re Streets: Together Hospice, winne Award with Church Street residents.

Winn

Nellie Kh

ossousi,

hero.Your minate your local chance to nom Your chance Your chance to no Your chance to nominate loca in Deo your loca to nomina Do ityour it today! l hero. today! l hero. at Do it toda ! y! ay tod it Do The Portman Estat

ers of the 2013

the 2013

Young Vo

luntee

wards Or send you Or send your nom Or send your nomination to Commun r nomination to Community Awa ination to ation to ity Award on W9 y2HQ rds, 4 Sutherlan Or send your nomin Sutherland Avenue, Lond Communit s, 4 Suthe Awards, 4 Sutherland Avenue, London d Avenue, Lond s, 4 rland Ave W9 2HQ on W9Clo Community Award sing date Clos 2HQ nue, Lond ing date for nom 2014 for h on W9 2H Closing no inati Marc date minations ons 31st March for nominations 31st March 2014 ations 31st Q 31st March 2014 Closing date for nomin Follow us Follow us on Twitter on Twitter 2014 twitter.com/VCWe twitter.c Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/VC estminster

Alslm Khan (bottom right) with his team

twitter.com/VCW Follow us on Twitter treWestminster ok.com/VolunteerCen Facebook facebo

really enjoy working with the players. I get so much satisfaction from it. There’s always a new challenge – the players I coach are so diverse. At the moment, for example, the oldest guy on the team is 50 and the youngest is 17. Some players come purely for the fun and fitness but others are more competitive and

winner of

Nominate www.volunonline at teer.co.uk /a

Nominate online www.volunteer.c at o.uk/awards

Nominate online at www.volunteer.co.uk/awards

Nominate online at wards uk/a www.volunteer.co.

Group Award.

want to progress to professional level.

“I especially love working with the younger players.

I like being involved in their football careers, watching them develop as players – some have even gone to play at professional level. It’s great knowing you were a part of their progression.”

V olunteer Centre Westminster can help match the right volunteering opportunity to suit your lifestyle. Visit volunteer.co.uk to look at all choices available.

Westminster Sports Makers

03/12/2013 15:46 wcc1111 Community

S

wcc1111 Community

What is it?

The Westminster Sports Makers programme offers people the opportunity to volunteer with sports clubs. You can volunteer as an assistant coach, referee, team manager or you can help with a clubs’ social media, admin or events – something for everyone.

Can I volunteer?

Sports makers need to be 16 years+ but no previous volunteering experience is required. It would be beneficial if you have some skills relevant to the role and a passion for sport is essential!

I f this has sparked your interest call Stephanie Taylor on 020 7604 8819 or email Stephanie@volunteer.co.uk to find out more. You can also visit volunteer.co.uk.

om/VCW Faceboo k faceboo estminst er k.com/V olunteer CentreW estminst er

stminster Facebook faceb ook.com/Voluntee rCentreWestmins ter

Westminster Facebook facebook.com/VolunteerCen treWestminster

.indd 1

Awards_2014_a3posters_aw

wcc1111 Community Awards_2014_a3posters_aw

.indd 2

wcc1111

Awards_2014_a3poste

rs_aw.indd 3

Community

Awards_2014_

a3posters_aw.i

ndd 4

o many people in Westminster give up their time to make the community better for others. Once a year, we try to recognise those individuals and organisations through the Community Awards which are organised in partnership with Volunteer Centre Westminster.

This year there are eight categories including Better City Better Lives, Young Volunteer and the Partnership award.

Nominating is easy – simply visit volunteer.co.uk/awards or write to Volunteer Centre Westminster, 4 Sutherland Avenue, London W9 2HQ. Don’t delay – nominations close on 31st March.

03/12/2013 15:46

To nominate visit volunteer.co.uk /awards or write to Volunteer Centre Westminster, 4 Sutherland Avenue, London W9 2HQ

03/12/2013

15:46

Let’s get

26

Health

swapping

An introduction to making healthier food and drink swaps

Smart Swap is a registered trade mark

We can help you quit smoking

of the Licensor and is used under licence

We all would like to be a bit healthier but it can be difficult to know where to start.

Now is the perfect time to quit with a free stop smoking service available to Westminster residents.

M

S

aking small changes each day to what you and your family eat is the perfect way to make positive changes towards a healthier lifestyle, and help is on hand.

Smart Swaps from Change4Life is a new campaign which gives you tips, recipes, money off vouchers and tools to help you swap one thing every day for a healthier option.

Sign up for free and download their recipe app, ideas and a weekly email.

For more information and to sign up to Smart Swaps visit smartswaps.change4life. co.uk

Fruity French toast with berries and bananas Eating fruit with breakfast is an ideal way to start the day, contributing to your recommended 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day. With this recipe, you’ll get a little under 2 portions of fruit. them on the other side for another 1-2 Serves: 4 minutes.

Preparation time: 10 minutes 4. Share the bread between 4 warm serving Cooking time: 5 minutes plates. Slice the bananas over the top and Suitable for vegetarians serve with the thawed berries.

4 slices fruit bread 1 egg 150ml semi-skimmed or 1% fat milk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp vegetable oil 4 small bananas, sliced 200g thawed frozen berries 1. Cut the slices of bread in half diagonally.

2. In a large shallow dish, beat together the egg, milk and vanilla extract. Add the pieces of fruit bread and leave them for about 2-3 minutes, turning them over once so that each side is thoroughly soaked.

3. Heat a large non-stick frying pan and add the vegetable oil.

Add the soaked bread and cook it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it has set and turned golden brown.

Turn over the pieces and cook

Tip 1: This recipe works well with slightly stale fruit bread, as the drier texture soaks up more of the liquid, so it’s ideal for using up a 2-3 day-old loaf.

Tip 2: Instead of bananas or berries, try a sliced fresh mango or canned pineapple chunks or peaches packed in natural fruit juice.

Tip 3: Serve with fresh strawberries, raspberries or blueberries when they come into season.

Nutritional analysis per portion: 115kcal/481kJ 4g protein 20g carbohydrate of which 18g sugars 3g fat of which 1g saturates 1g fibre 35mg sodium equivalent to 0.08g salt

moking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the UK, but kicking the habit can be a difficult task without expert support and advice.

We are investing £2 million over four years in a free stop smoking service for residents.

The Kick It stop smoking service has assisted over 6,500 smokers to quit across London. Research shows that smokers are four times more likely to quit when using Kick It’s specialised support than if they were to quit on their own.

Top tips to help you quit Quit for YOU Make a note of the benefits you’ll gain and your reasons for wanting to be smoke-free. Keep it where you can see it and remind yourself often.

Get support Quitting with a Stop Smoking Advisor is FREE, and they can provide behavioural support as well as medication to help you quit. Your friends and family can also give you support and encouragement.

Consider using a stop smoking medication You are four times more likely to quit with NRT, Champix or Zyban plus behavioural support than if you are going it alone.

Avoid triggers

Look out for the Kick It van around Westminster

How does it work?

Westminster residents are able to sign up and join for free by making an appointment at your local GP practice.

Weekly support sessions to help navigate the initial six weeks – the hardest period of quitting, are available at clinics held in local GP surgeries and pharmacies.

All appointments are with NHS qualified advisors and are available on a one-to-one basis, within a group or drop-in session or you can even talk to someone on the telephone.

Each session provides free advice on suitable prescription medication; support in changing your habitual behaviours and access to regular carbon monoxide tests.

Your urges to smoke are likely to be strongest in the situations where you smoked most often. Identify your own trigger situations and plan around them if they can’t be avoided e.g. if you used to smoke while you talked on the phone, keep a pen and paper nearby to distract yourself with doodling.

Delay Cravings only last a short amount of time. If you feel like you’re going to give in to your craving, tell yourself you must first wait 10 more minutes, then do something to distract yourself for that period of time.

Repeat as often as you need.

Get active Physical activity can help to distract you from cravings and reduce their intensity. Build some extra walking into your day or do an exercise or activity that you find fun and rewarding. Even getting up to do the washing up can help take your mind off your cravings.

If you want to quit smoking for good, you can find a list of locations in Westminster where you can make an appointment or find out how to sign up, online at: kick-it.org.uk or you can call Kick It’s helpline on: 020 3434 2500

27 The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Make a smart swap

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

Health

Local supporters’ toolkit

29

Adult Services

‘It’s a really enjoyable class, we have a laugh’

Dancing the afternoon away

Older people in Westminster can learn to use technology with the experts thanks to an inter-generational volunteering project run by Open Age.

December saw the biggest council event of the year – the Tea Dance at the Grosvenor House Hotel.

A

O

s part of the project, students from Westminster Academy volunteer their time to turn older people into Silver Surfers – teaching them the basics of navigating computers and iPads, surfing the web and making the most of the latest apps.

Victoria Callant from Maida Vale, was paired with Matinur Rahman, a student from Westminster Academy.

She said: “It’s harder to learn things when you get older. For the younger people it is an easy thing, it comes as first nature to them. But it is harder if you haven’t grown up with it.

“Since coming here, I’ve learned how to use my mobile better, I now know how to take photographs, how to send a text and how to see the calls that I have missed.

“I’m now getting some help with using the computer. I made a mistake at home the other day and lost Google. I had to get a guy in from a computer shop to show me how to get

ne thousand people aged 65 and over from across Westminster attended an afternoon of music and afternoon tea.

The Tea Dance would not have been possible without the generosity of our Platinum Sponsors: The Daily Telegraph; Friends Life insurers and the Grosvenor House Hotel If you missed out, don’t worry, we are hoping to hold the Tea Dance again this December, so keep an eye out in Westminster Plus magazine for the start of the prize draw for tickets.

“I’ve really enjoyed helping Vicky, but I’ve learned a lot from her as well.”

Matinur Rahman

it back, and he charged me £60, so I really need this class.

“I think it’s really kind of Mat and the other pupils to volunteer. They have been at school all day and then they help out after classes.

It’s really good of them.

“I think Mat is learning a lot from me too. The other day he got this iPad out and we were watching all of these old films, like Norman Wisdom, and then Greta Garbo, although that was before my time. It’s a really enjoyable class, we have a laugh.”

Matinur said: “I’ve really enjoyed helping Vicky, but I’ve learned a lot from her as well. She’s taught me a lot about how people used to be, how they are now and how technology has changed.

“Before getting involved in the programme, I did

westminster.ov.uk/teadance

Susan Kai-Hewitt and James Fraser enjoying the Tea Dance

Getting help and advice online

A

Matinur Rahman with Victoria Callant

some work experience that involved working with older people which I really enjoyed, but for me, helping older people out in this way

is a common courtesy.

“I’ve always loved helping people out and I think that this programme is a great way to do it, as you know

that the time you put in will really make a difference.”

To find out more about the classes or to book a place, please visit: openage.org.uk or call 020 8964 1900

new website called People First has been set up to help you find help, advice and support to remain independent.

You can find information about getting out and about, what’s on in your area, advice on looking after someone and much more online at peoplefirstinfo.org.uk T o find out more visit peoplefirstinfo.org.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

28

30

Community focus

Over to you

Meet the people who are involved in their local area, creating better lives by giving something back to their community.

Adult learning

in the heart of Westminster This year’s Youth Elections are now open!

E

ight young people are hoping to become Westminster’s next Youth or Deputy Youth MP. These are young people who are passionate about youth issues and whoever gets elected will represent Westminster’s 11-18 year-olds to make sure their voices are heard. Voting is open to all 11-18 year-olds and closes on midnight Sunday 16th March. The hotly-awaited election result will be announced on the night of Monday 17th March.

Meet the candidates Ayman Ahmed, 16, Church Street

“Y

ou should vote for me if you want to be awarded for talent and creativity, a better education system for the next generation, one which doesn’t downgrade students based on how well they can memorise before an exam.”

Enkuush Mergen, 16, Pimlico

The Westminster Reporter | westminster.gov.uk

“I

want there to be more support for young people who aspire to become something more than what they have now – by advocating the need for interview guidance, help on gaining work experience, better quality advice for applying and also gaining funding for universities.”

Mohamed Hammeda, 14, Abbey Road

“O

ne of my solutions is to set up facilities for all abilities that allow courses, qualifications, internships to be available to all. I also want to help students determine what career suits them best.”

Nora Jamal Wadi, 15, Little Venice

“I

know that if I were voted as your Youth MP, I will be able to make a change that will not only affect you at this very moment, but also in the future.”

Voting closes midnight ch 16th Mar

Care about issues affecting young people in Westminster?

Vote in the 2014 Youth Elections.

Your vote will elect a Youth MP and Deputy Youth MP to represent you on the issues that are important to you and other young people.

Get online to find out more about the candidates and to get your voice heard.

Visit: westminster.gov.uk/youthelections #WestminsterYMP

For more information about The Youth Council please contact Simeon Earnshaw Tel: 020 7641 1048, Text: 020 7641 1048 or Email: searnshaw@w estminster.gov.uk

Selina Solomon, 18, Harrow Road

Soleen Rashed, 14, Pimlico

“Y

oung people in Westminster deserve an opportunity to have a say.

I feel I would be a good candidate as I want to contribute as much as I can by listening and working hard to serve our best interests now and to make our future a place to be proud of.”

Sofya Shchukina, 16, Victoria

“A

primary issue which I will address is youth unemployment and equality of opportunities.

Your background should not define your future – if you have an ambition, you should be able to use all opportunities out there to achieve it.”

Read the full manifestos of each candidate and vote online at westminster.gov.uk/youthelections or at ballot boxes in schools across Westminster.

“I

believe that we need to tackle the negative portrayal of young people within our society. We don’t necessarily belong in the place we are so often put, but we need to take responsibility for changing people’s minds.”

Tahir Ali Hassan, 15, Paddington

WAES Open D ay Saturday 21s t June Lisson Grove Centre

“I

f elected I will do everything in my power to campaign for all the needs in my local area, from free travel until the age of 18, to opening more facilities for young people to do positive things in the community.”

Follow the election campaign on Twitter using #WestminsterYMP

Join us at the WAES Summer Open Day and get a taste of the adult courses on offer in 2014 . Our open day is the perfect opportunity for you to try your hand at one of our courses – and the great thing is that you don’t need any previous experience, and they are FREE – just come along and have a go!

For more information visit www.waes.ac.uk/opendays or call 020 7297 7297 Find us at 219 Lisson Grove London NW8 8LW.

30 TCHLAIM APR BY IL*

FREE ONE DAY PASS? NOW THAT’S BETTER.

Together, Westminster City Council and Better have invested over £1.2 million in your local leisure centres over the past year. To help you try your nearest centre, we’re offering you a FREE ONE DAY PASS at the following leisure centres: Jubilee Sports Centre Caird Street, London, W10 4RR Little Venice Sports Centre 10 Crompton Street, W2 1ND Marshall Street Leisure Centre 15 Marshall Street, London, W1F 7EL Moberly Sports and Education Centre 101 The Quadrant, Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH Paddington Recreation Ground Randolph Avenue, Maida Vale, W9 1PD Queen Mother Sports Centre 223 Vauxhall Bridge Road, Victoria, London SW1V 1EL Seymour Leisure Centre Seymour Place, London, W1H 5TJ The Porchester Centre Queensway, Baywater, London, W2 5HS

Claim yours today at www.better.org.uk

*Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.better.org.uk/terms for details. This pass is valid at Better leisure centres in The City of Westminster only. Customers using the gym must satisfactorily complete a pre-exercise questionnaire and a pre-booked induction prior to use. Offer valid for one day and must be redeemed by 31st December 2013. Booking is essential for racquet sports and group exercise classes and is subject to availability.

Only valid to non members, 16 years and over. Centre and swim safety rules apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 31st December 2013. Better is a registered trademark of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise. Registered address: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX IPS Registered No. 27793R Inland Revenue Charity No. XR43398