Issuu

48 April 2025

Essential Information for Westminster’s Older Residents

DIGITAL EXCLUSION

Hear from a Westminster resident BE SCAM AWARE Spot the signs, stay safe WHAT’S ON Social activities across the city

DISCOVER WESTMINSTER LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES

To the latest edition of Westminster Plus magazine, bringing you news, events and activities from across Westminster.

Since the last Issue the clocks have changed and the lighter evenings are here, Westminster is set to be the stage once again for a fantastic spring and summer in the capital with the exciting annual events of Notting Hill Carnival and West End Live happening very soon.

In this issue we visit the Westminster Archives, a treasure trove of interesting information and a must visit for local historians – page 4. You can also read about our discovery session with Sue Kaye, a Westminster resident highlighting the struggles of those who are digitally excluded – page 6

For what’s on turn to page 10 and for City Save offers, see page 18

We’d like to wish you all a fantastic spring and summer with plenty of community spirit, laughter and fun.

Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector and Lead Member SEN and Learning Disabilities Champion

We are always looking for community groups to visit and share your stories and activities with the wider community, get in touch to share your by writing to us at:

Westminster Plus 17th Floor Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP

westminsterplus@westminster.gov.uk

020 7641 6000

Councillor Butler-Thalassis Cabinet Member for

Councillor Southern Older Persons Champion

£2.6M INVESTMENT PACKAGE

FOR ADULT SOCIAL CARE

Major new investment is going into cushioning the cost of adult social care – meaning hundreds of service users will now not pay for care, while hard-working care assistants will earn more.

Approved at a meeting of the Full Council on Wednesday 5 March, additional funding for adult social care includes £1.4m to increase the pay of the personal care assistants (over 400 staff) who provide care for Westminster residents through direct payments.

This will improve the quality of care for care receivers and help more people who use adult social care to employ the carer they want as they will now be able to pay a competitive salary.

SPORTS CENTER UPGRADE!

The Queen Mother Sports Centre in Victoria has received a £370k boost. Accessibility has been at the heart of this upgrade, with a newly refurbished poolside changing area to make it easier for those with mobility issues to enjoy the water, and an award-winning Changing Places toilet facility.

HOUSING INSPECTION GETS TOP MARKS!

The Regulator of Social Housing has confirmed that Westminster City Council has achieved a C1 rating following an inspection of our housing services. This is the highest possible rating, indicating that we meet the consumer standards set by the regulator and effectively address and resolve problems when they are identified.

We are the first Local Authority in London to achieve this rating to date.

The inspection involved a detailed review of documents, an on-site inspection and attendance at resident engagement meetings. The regulator also met with staff and residents to better understand their experiences.

“We welcome the findings from the Regulator of Social Housing, which demonstrates the significant progress we’ve made in improving our housing services over recent years,” said Councillor Liza Begum, Cabinet Member for Housing Services “We’re committed to listening to residents and acting on their feedback to ensure all our tenants have a safe, secure and well-maintained home.”

COST

OF LIVING SUPPORT HUB

The cost of living crisis is affecting us all. Rising costs, such as fuel, energy bills and food is having an impact. We have a support hub online for Westminster residents: westminster.gov. uk/cost-of-livingsupport

020 7641 6000

LIBRARIES & ARCHIVES

UNLOCKING THE PAST

Take a deep dive into the rich and fascinating history of Westminster

Ever wondered what your street looked like in 1890? Or who starred on the West End stages in the early 1900s? Or perhaps you would like to find out about your family history and links to Westminster. The Westminster Archives are a treasure trove of information and as long as you have a Westminster library membership, you can go along and start exploring.

Must-see collections include Jaeger Co. Waring, and Gillow and Liberty which has been recognised as a collection of national significance.

Liberty was at the forefront of fashion for oriental design, and highly influential in the Art Nouveau movement.

The Liberty archives include administrative business records, retail catalogues including original fabric swatches, jewellery design sketch books, personal papers and correspondence of Arthur Lasenby Liberty.

WHAT CAN I DO AT THE ARCHIVES?

n Search the archives collections for local records, maps, newspapers, images, census data and more.

n Attend events such as special talks.

n Visit the local history shop for books, cards and more.

n Volunteer to help.

n Digital imaging and printing.

DONATIONS

The archives are always seeking to add to their collections. Perhaps you have a photograph of a street in Westminster or an old programme from an event? Get in touch to find out how to add your treasured memories to Westminster’s history books!

VOLUNTEER

If you love history, why not volunteer at the Westminster Archives? Connect with like-minded enthusiasts while preserving the past for future generations!

FIND OUT MORE:

www.westminster.gov.uk/archives archives@westminster.gov.uk

020 7641 5180

City of Westminster Archives, 10 St Ann’s Street, SW1P 2DE

BEING DIGITALLY EXCLUDED

In this fast-paced digital world, where everything feels tech-based and telephone directories are a thing of the past, it can be all-too easy to overlook those that aren’t (or can’t be) online

Sue is a Westminster resident who describes herself as digitally excluded. Five years ago, she experienced some health problems relating to her eyesight which made it impossible for her to use a computer anymore.

During the pandemic, online access became the primary way to stay updated, book events, manage finances and more. Meanwhile, offline access became much less available, which posed a serious problem for people such as Sue – leading to increased isolation and negatively impacting their everyday life, confidence and well-being.

PUSHING FOR CHANGE

Sue has been vocal and proactive in advocating for

change, urging companies to include telephone numbers alongside online contact details. She has collaborated with AgeUK to provide insight for their Mind the Digital Gap campaign and has been interviewed on the issue by the Times, the Telegraph, the Daily Mirror, and Channel 4 News.

She remains steadfast in highlighting the importance of proactive efforts for causes that directly impact her daily life.

WHAT CAN BE DONE

Sue is far from being alone in feeling excluded from many aspects of modern life, but she has advice to offer others that routinely face similar issues:

n ”Contact AgeUK – it can offer advice on the Equality Act 2010 as well as inform you of the many in-person social events it hosts every week right here in Westminster.”

n “Talk to others about the challenges you’re facing – someone may have a solution based on their own experiences. By sharing insights and solutions, we can support one another, as shared experiences go a long way in helping people overcome difficulties.”

If you are feeling digitally excluded and would like to seek some advice and guidance, contact Age UK Westminster: 020 3004 5610

n 2.3 million people aged 65+ do not use the internet – that’s 1 in 5 people in this age group. n Around 3.3 million people aged 65 and over in the UK don’t use a smartphone and 900,000 people of the same age don’t use any sort of mobile phone.

Source: AgeUK, March 2024

“MY LIFE IS BECOMING SQUEEZED INTO SMALLER AND SMALLER AREAS. MANY THINGS ARE ‘ONLINE ONLY’ AND I FIND LITTLE SYMPATHY OR UNDERSTANDING OF MY DIFFICULTIES” – SUE

BE SCAM AWARE

As technology advances, so do the tactics of scammers. It’s important to make sure you stay informed and keep one step ahead...

Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated techniques to trick people into giving away their money and personal details. By staying informed, you can protect yourself and reduce your chances from falling victim to scams both online and in person.

DIGITAL SCAMS

KEEP YOUR COMPUTER AND PHONE SECURE

Use strong, unique passwords for different accounts and enable twostep verification when possible. Keep your devices updated with the latest security software, and

TIPS TO CREATE A STRONG PASSWORD

1. Do not use your name or a family member’s name or date/place of birth.

2. Use a mix of lower case and capital letters, numbers and special characters, for example: hAzl3k!2f8*qL.

3. Do not use the same password for multiple websites.

4. Try to avoid using words or phrases that relate to you such as your place of birth or pet names.

5. Change your passwords regularly.

6. Always remember to logout when you have finished.

consider using a reputable antivirus program. If you receive a suspicious message saying your computer has a virus, don’t call any numbers provided – this is often a scam.

CHECK WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST

If you receive an unexpected request for money or personal

information, speak with a family member or trusted friend before taking action. Sometimes, a second opinion can help you spot a potential scam.

HOW TO SPOT A SCAM EMAIL

Scam emails can look genuine and appear to be from a legitimate business such as a bank, but you

AgeUK has information for scams and fraud covering cold calls, postal, doorstep, email, pensions and investment scams. It also has support if you have been a victim of a scam.

www.ageuk.org

Age UK Advice Line 0800 678 1602

Lines are open 8am to 7pm, 365 days a year.

can often tell it’s a scam by checking the details. Look out for:

n errors in the spelling or grammar, or an unusual style of writing

n requests for personal information, such as your username, password or bank details – genuine organisations will never ask for this information over email

n a sense of urgency, threatening that unless you act now, a deal will expire or your account will be closed.

DOORSTEP SCAMS

Common types of doorstep scams to look out for include the following:

n Rogue traders who say they’ve noticed something wrong with your property that they can fix.

n Door-to-door sellers. Be wary of pushy sellers who say they have large discounts, time-limited offers or only a few items left.

n Utility ‘officials’. People who claim to be from gas and electricity companies but don’t have any official ID or badges.

n Fake charity collectors. People who go door-todoor saying they’re charity collectors. They may seem pushy or be unable to supply a registered charity number when asked.

POSTAL SCAMS

Common types of postal scams to look out for:

n Unknown companies. If you get a bill from a provider you don’t regognise, don’t call the number on the letter. Find the company’s contact details online and ask them directly.

n Lotteries and Prize Draws. You may receive a letter congratulating you on winning a cash prize. The letter might ask you to pay an administration fee, buy a product or call a premiumrate phone number to claim your winnings.

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, report it.

WHAT’S ON

TEQUILA PARTY WITH THE EMBASSY OF MEXICO

BOOKING REQUIRED

LIMITED SPACES

The Ambassador of Mexico to the United Kingdom, H.E. Josefa González Blanco, is delighted to host this special Silver Sunday event to celebrate the elderly community with an afternoon of great company, music, and fun.

The Tequila Party will feature a guided tequila tasting session led by a professional team, along with nibbles, drinks and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Friday 9 May, from 12pm to 3pm Limited spaces, RSVPs are on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP by 30 April. asistentegbr@sre.gob.mx 020 7907 9461

48 Belgrave Square, SW1X 8QR www.gob.mx/sre

IT GROUP SESSIONS

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

Would you like to improve your IT skills? Come along If you are looking for basic computer skills. One of our volunteers will sit next to you and help you to go through the problems you might encounter when using a computer.

Wednesdays, 2pm to 4pm

stjohnswoodlibrary@westminster.gov.uk 020 7641 6200

St John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD www.westminster.gov.uk/libraries

FEEL BETTER WITH YOGA

BOOKING REQUIRED

Weekly recurring yoga sessions for adults, run by a qualified teacher. Sessions are suitable for all levels. Mayfair sessions are donation only. Mats provided. Every class will contain elements of a rounded yoga practice:

n Physical postures – to strengthen and tone the body and increase mobility.

n Meditation – introduction to Buddhist mindfulness practices.

n Breathwork – simple breathing practices to boost mood and balance the nervous system.

n Relaxation – can you believe we have to learn that? But we do!

To register to attend contact the library: Tuesdays, 5.45pm to 6.45pm Mayfair Library, 25 South Audley Street, W1K 2PB. This library does not have wheelchair access. 020 7641 6200

mayfairlibrary@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/libraries

LUNCHTIME CONCERTS AT WESTMINSTER MUSIC LIBRARY

Free live music every Wednesday at lunchtime. Concerts include instrumental and voice recitals, chamber music and jazz. No need to book – just turn up! Wednesdays, 12.30pm to 1.15pm Westminster Music Library, 35 St Martin’s Street, WC2H 7HP. There is no step-free access to this library.

020 7641 6200

musiclibrary@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/libraries

LIBRARY OF THINGS

Why buy, when you can borrow!

Pimlico Library is home to a Library of Things, a community of people sharing items and skills to save money, make repairs and cut down on wasteful one-time purchases. Sign up to start renting everything from carpet cleaners, to drills and more, all from the lockers inside Pimlico Library.

How borrowing works:

1. Join and start learning

Get project inspiration, learn DIY skills or discover planet-friendly ways to find items.

2. Reserve and rent

Reserve the thing you need online. Visit the self-service lockers inside the library to collect your item. Use our online guides if you need a hand at home.

3. Return and share

Complete your project and return your item clean, ready for another neighbour to rent right after you!

Pimlico Library, Lupus Street, Pimlico, SW1V 3AT. There is no step-free access to this library.

020 7641 6200 pimlicolibrary@westminster.gov.uk www.libraryofthings.co.uk/pimlico

For more events, visit: www.westminster.gov.uk/events

Thank you for recycling your food waste!

By recycling, you are helping tackle climate change and encouraging us all to live more sustainably.

Since we launched our food waste recycling service three years ago we have collected nearly 4,500 tonnes of food waste to be recycled from our residents! Most residents now have access to a food waste recycling service. Why not join your neighbours and start to recycle your food waste? If you aren’t sure how to start recycling your food waste, or don’t have access to the service yet, please contact us via:

Recycling Team: foodwaste@westminster.gov.uk

Call centre: 020 7641 2000 www.westminster.gov.uk/food-waste-recycling

Remember that all food waste from chicken bones to banana skins to coffee grounds can be put in your food waste bin. If you need food waste liners, kitchen bins or outdoor bins, please do get in touch.

All the food waste we collect is recycled at an anaerobic digestion facility outside London.

Why are we doing this?

Wasting less

Food waste generates harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Using this service will help reduce waste and tackle climate change.

Renewable energy

Your food waste will be used to create renewable energy used to generate electricity to power the national grid and heat for homes.

Biofertiliser

Food waste will also be transformed into a biofertiliser, which will be used on farmland to grow more food.

THE DIGITAL PHONE SWITCHOVER

The UK’s telephone network is changing – here’s what you need to know...

Your telecoms provider should contact you before the switchover to let you know if you’ll be affected.

What is the phone switchover?

The old analogue network is being retired and the switch over is expected to be complete by January 2027. This is an industry-wide change, but timescales may differ depending on your service provider.

How will it affect me/what do I need to do?

The good news is your landline isn’t going anywhere and for most consumers, this change will be straightforward. In fact, many customers have already made the switch.

Your telecoms provider, such as Virgin Media O2, Sky or BT, should contact you before the switchover to check in and discuss what you need to do to make sure your service isn’t affected. However, we’re encouraging everyone to know what to expect.

People who use personal alarms or health monitoring devices should check if the switchover will affect how they work.

If you or someone you know depends on their landline or uses a telecare device connected to a phone line (such as a fall monitor, lifeline or personal alarm) you should notify your communication provider so they can advise you.

If you’re worried about your devices, please contact the supplier, provider or company who provide them so they can give you more information. Useful contact information:

Service: 0808 100 2440 available 24/7

Media 02: 0345 454 1111

The next scheduled elections in Westminster are local elections on 7 May 2026

If you are not already registered to vote you can register at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

You can also apply for a postal vote at www.gov.uk/applypostal-vote

If you need assistance to register to vote in Westminster, contact Electoral Services on 020 7641 2730

SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

Dates for your diary – summer fun and activities in our city

WEST END LIVE

2025

Celebrate 20 years of West End Live with a weekend of outstanding performances from top West End musicals, live and free in Trafalgar Square.

Accessible viewing is available and by ticket only.

West End LIVE is present by Westminster City Council and the Society of London Theatre with support from the Mayor of London, partners and sponsors.

www.westendlive.co.uk

westendlive@westminster.gov.uk

020 7641 6000

West End LIVE, 16th floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

London’s biggest street party will be back creating vibrant streets and joyful communities this summer!

23 – 25 AUGUST 2024 21 – 25 JUNE

To see the Steel Band competition head there on Saturday. For families, go down on

Sunday to see the children’s parade and visit on Monday for the Adult’s parade.

nhcarnival.org

office@nhcarnival.org 020 7221 9700

Pamela Raith Photography

WESTMINSTER MARKETS

Discover the vibrant heart of Westminster’s culinary and artisanal scene at our local markets. From the freshest produce to unique crafts, our markets offer a delightful array of offerings for every taste and preference

BERWICK STREET W1

This is one of London’s oldest markets. Founded in 1778, Berwick Street sells a range of traditional products. It’s also known as Soho’s main lunchtime food destination. Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm.

CHURCH STREET NW8

Westminster’s largest market is flanked by cafes and shops, serving one of London’s most multicultural neighbourhoods. There is a diverse range of traditional products, and at the Lisson Grove end of the market is London’s most famous antiques quarter. Monday to Saturday, from 8am to 6pm.

MAIDA HILL W9

Westminster’s newest community market offers fruit and vegetables, bric-a-brac and international take-away foods.

Monday to Saturday, from 8am to 6pm.

RUPERT STREET W1

A vibrant market in the heart of Soho offering a range of international hot food.

Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm, with hot food served between 11.30am and 3pm.

STRUTTON GROUND SW1

This is a bustling lunchtime market that entices many of the surrounding workers, residents and tourists to its stalls offering international hot food stalls and coffee, clothing, jewellery, books and more.

Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm.

TACHBROOK STREET SW1

Located in the heart of Pimlico, Tachbrook is a bustling market serving the local community offering fruit and vegetables, a traditional butcher and fishmonger, clothing, household goods and international hot food.

Monday to Saturday from 8am to 6pm.

FARMERS MARKETS

Pimlico – This food market takes place every Saturday from 9am to 1pm, in an area known locally as Orange or Mozart Square. Marylebone – This fresh produce and grocery market takes place every Sunday between 10am to 2pm at St Vincent Street.

To find out more about our markets, visit: www.westminster.gov.uk/markets For assistance in finding out the details available online, call 020 7641 6000

URBAN GARDENING

Tomatoes, potatoes and dahlias are just some of the popular balcony and small garden produce grown in urban areas

You can grow almost any type of plant in a container, including vegetables and even small trees. These are simple and satisfying ways to brighten up an outdoor space. Plus, caring for plants benefits our wellbeing too.

GETTING STARTED

Choose containers that have drainage holes in the bottom. If growing vegetables such as potatoes, sacks are a good cost-effective alternative to a container. Tomatoes and strawberries can both be grown in hanging baskets!

BEST TRAILING PLANTS FOR HANGING BASKETS

n Lobelia – comes in a range of colours, including white, purple, pink and blue.

n Fuchia – choose a trailing variety.

n Begonia – prefers a shady spot.

n Ivy – a trailing evergreen that is hardy and will last all year round.

BEST FLOWERS FOR POTS

n Marigolds – Perfect for big bursts of colour.

n Blueberries – Flowers in spring and provide fruit in summer.

n Hydrangea – Some varieties thrive in partial shade.

n Dahlia – Show-stopping summer flowers.

Share your summer plants with us by sending a photo and let us know where in the city you are and what you’ve been growing.

westminsterplus@ westminster.gov.uk

Westminster Plus, City Hall, 17th Floor, 64 Victoria Street, SW1E 6QP

BEST HERBS TO GROW ON YOUR WINDOWSILL Mint, basil, parsley and thyme. If your space or windowsill doesn’t get a lot of sun, try growing sage and chives, both of which can grow in partial light.

50% OFF FULL PRICE TICKETS AT THE PHOTOGRAPHERS’ GALLERY

Explore the best of photography with must-see exhibitions, inspiring events and workshops.

Online tickets: usual full price £8.50 (£4.25 with your City Save discount). Your ticket covers admission to all exhibitions on the day you visit.

How to Claim: Show your City Save card at the ticket desk at the Gallery when you visit or use the code WCS online to claim 50% off full price exhibition tickets www.thephotographersgallery.org.uk info@tpg.org.uk 020 7087 9300

25% OFF BOUQUETS AT APPLEYARD LONDON

Online only offer Order a stunning flower bouquet as a heartfelt gift or a charming touch for your own home.

How to claim: Order through the Appleyard website and enter discount code AWEST25 at the checkout. The code is available for multiple use.

www.appleyardflowers.com customerservices@appleyardlondon.com 0843 886 9422

WESTMINSTER CITY SAVE OFFERS

Westminster City Save is a membership scheme for Westminster residents. It’s free to join and offers local discounts and savings.

Discover all offers available: westminster.gov.uk/westminster-city-save

DISCOUNTED ADMISSION TO WESTMINSTER ABBEY – SAVE £22!

The Abbey is a place that's touched the lives of kings, queens, statesmen and soldiers, poets, priests, heroes and villains since 960AD Discounted entry of £8 to the Abbey for Westminster City Save card holders, usually £30 How to claim: Offer is available in person, on the day only. Online booking is not available with this offer.

Simply present your Westminster City Save card and proof of address on entry.

Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 3.30pm (last entry); Saturday, 9am to 3pm (last entry) 20 Dean’s Yard, Westminster, SW1P 3PA www.westminster-abbey.org visitor.experience@westminster-abbey.org 020 7222 5152