Westminster PLUS
Issue 28 – Autumn 2016
Book now: try something new on Silver Sunday, 2nd October 2016
INSIDE
PLUS
Free Silver Sunday events Music Hall Film screenings Lord’s tour Theatre
Get involved with volunteering Health and wellbeing What’s on this autumn?
Welcome and news Welcome to our special Silver Sunday edition of Westminster Plus magazine, packed with free and low-cost events and activities for you to enjoy. As we head into autumn, we have our annual Carer Awards, Silver Sunday and Tea Dance to look forward to. Our fifth annual Silver Sunday takes place on 2nd October. The event is growing into a national day. Last year, nearly 600 events took place across the country attended by over 4,000 people. Thanks to the generosity of local organisations, here in Westminster we have our most exciting line up yet of free events and activities. It’s an opportunity to try something new and meet new people.
This year we’ve received more nominations than ever for the Westminster Carer Awards and invites will soon go out to those who were shortlisted. If you’re an unpaid carer and would like the chance to come along to the awards ceremony on 31st October please email rsvp@ westminster.gov.uk by Monday 19th September. And last but by no means least, applications for the Westminster Tea Dance are open. This year’s event will take place on Sunday 6th November and details of how to apply are on p17.
Keep up-to-date with the latest local news, service updates and activities at peoplefirstinfo.org.uk which is packed full of ways to keep healthy and independent. 2
We hope you will Councillor be able join at The LadytoFlight least one of Older People’s these events Champion and look forward to meeting you. Cabinet Support, 18th Floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP cllrflight@candhflight.com
Councillor Rachael Robathan Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health
Cabinet Support, 18th Floor, City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP rrobathan@westminster.gov.uk On the cover:
Silver Sunday at the Soho Society Tea Dance
News
Concession card update
Shared Lives
Everyone Active took over the management of leisure centres in Westminster this summer. You can swap your concession and/or leisure centre membership card for a single Everyone Active card which will offer the same benefits you previously received.
Find out more about offering a home and support to someone with a learning disability through our new Shared Lives scheme. You will receive a weekly fee and welcome someone as part of the family.
Keep an eye out for improvements to the centres and new classes. Find out more at everyoneactive.com or ask at your local leisure centre.
The future of health and wellbeing services in Westminster Have your say on our health and wellbeing priorities for the next five years including how we will tackle local health issues. This is your opportunity to let us know if you think we’ve got it right
Find out more by calling 07950 600 730 or emailing sharedlives3b@graceeyre.org
and help to shape the future of health and social care services in your area. Visit westminster.gov. uk/your-health by 16th October.
Save money on energy bills Small changes can have a big impact on cutting your energy bills. Age UK advises that you check with your energy supplier – even something as simple as paying by direct debit could save you up to £100, switch – you could potentially save around £200 and insulate – saving up to £240. Visit ageuk.org.uk and search ‘energy bills’.
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Try something new on Silver Sunday Take a look at these free and low-cost events and activities on Sunday 2nd October. Silver Sunday is our national day for people aged 65 and over to try something new and meet new people. Lots of people attend events and activities on their own so don’t worry if you are coming alone. Go to as many events and activities as you like, there’s no limit. Carers of any age are welcome to come along too but please book beforehand. We are happy to announce the Sanctuary Care will be hosting Silver Sunday tea dances in their care homes across the country and that other providers are planning on doing the same. For national listings please visit silversunday.org.uk. 4
Event spaces are allocated on a first come, first served basis so if your first choice is booked up there are lots of other events to choose from. New events and activities are being confirmed all the time so check online at westminster.gov.uk/silversunday for the latest listings.
Please see pages 13 to 16 for pre- and postSilver Sunday events.
Events and activities are donated by businesses, organisations and volunteers across the city and many of them are run by volunteers. Silver Sunday is supported by the Sir Simon Milton Foundation.
Silver Sunday
Silver Sunday listings Cycle Superhighway Safari Sunday 2nd October, 10am-1.30pm Meet outside Glastonbury House, Abbots Manor, Warwick Way, SW1V 4NP Join Westminster Cycling Campaign for a leisurely 10 mile cycle ride along the new segregated Cycle Superhighways to Tower Hill, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Blackfriars Bridge. Unlimited spaces, no booking required. 020 7828 1500
LGBT fitness classes
Key: wheelchair access a dvance booking required – contact venue
Sunday 2nd October, 10am-12 midday Academy Sport, The Naim Dangoor Centre, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Dance your way to fitness in this fun class aimed at the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
Hosted by Team Angelica. 20 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 8969
Silver Sunday at The Queen’s Gallery Sunday 2nd October, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2.30-4.30pm The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA Enjoy one of two tour and tea sessions at The Queen’s Gallery as you explore the highlights of the fascinating exhibitions Scottish Artist’s 1750 - 1900: From Caledonia to the Continent and Maria Merian’s Butterflies. Hosted by The Queen’s Gallery. 40 spaces (20 per tour), booking required. 030 3123 7324 or email specialistsales@ royalcollection.org.uk 5
Silver Sunday lunch Sunday 2nd October, 10.30am-2pm St. Margaret’s Activity Centre, 1 Carey Place, Vauxhall Bridge Road, SW1V 2RT Enjoy a delicious hot roast with Open Age. Vegetarian options are available but please request in advance. You must be a member of Open Age to take part in this event. It’s free and easy to join. 60 spaces, booking required. Visit openage.org.uk/ get-involved or call 020 7976 6354 or 07530 734 489 for a membership form.
Regent’s Park walk Sunday 2nd October, 11am-12 midday Clarence Gate, Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, NW1 – please wait by the notice board on the right hand side as you enter the park Explore Regent’s Park with Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust. You will receive a free pedometer and a fact sheet. 12 spaces, booking required. Marian Starrett on 020 7563 6211 or marian. starrett@clch.nhs.uk
Dance for Health open workshops with English National Ballet Sunday 2nd October, 11am12 midday and 12.30-1.30pm English National Ballet, Markova House, 39 Jay Mews, SW7 2ES These special workshops are inspired by English National Ballet repertoire with a chance to discover
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what goes on behind the scenes. They will give you an insight into ENB’s Dance for Health programme for older people, an artistic and enjoyable dance activity that improves physical and mental health and wellbeing through creative expression. 60 spaces (30 per session), booking required. Engagement team on 020 7581 1245 or engagement@ballet.org. uk
NatWest scams awareness advice at Lord’s Sunday 2nd October, 11am-2pm Lord’s Cricket Ground, St. John’s Wood Road, NW8 8QN Fraud awareness advice from NatWest to help you keep safe from all types of fraud. For people attending Silver Sunday at Lord’s Cricket Ground only (see next listing). Unlimited spaces, no booking required.
Silver Sunday
Tour, afternoon tea and cricket match at Lord’s Sunday 2nd October, tour and afternoon tea booking slots are available at 11am and 1.30pm (tour followed by afternoon tea) match takes place from 11.30am4.30pm and is available for all visitors to watch. Lord’s Cricket Ground, St. John’s Wood Road, NW8 8QN Enjoy afternoon tea and a tour of Lord’s Cricket Ground plus the opportunity to watch an intergenerational cricket match. NatWest will be on hand to offer advice on keeping safe from scams and the NHS will be giving free health checks and advice. 250 spaces (125 per tour), booking required. A £5 booking fee is required, fully refundable on arrival. Yvonne Muigua on 020 7616 8589 or community@mcc.org.uk
Behind-the-scenes tour of the Royal Philatelic Society London Sunday 2nd October, 11am The Royal Philatelic Society London, 41 Devonshire Place, W1G 6JY Explore the highlights of the collection in this tour of the museum and archive. 12 spaces, booking required. 020 7486 1044 or email secretary@rpsl.org.uk
Art for All guided walk Sunday 2nd October, walks start at 11am, 12 midday, 1pm and 2pm Meet in St. Martin’s Court, by Gaby’s Deli, off Charing Cross Road, WC2N 4AJ Free guided walks taking in significant artists, buildings and sculptures in Westminster including the National Portrait Gallery and the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square. Hosted by City of Westminster Guide Lecturers Association. 100 spaces (25 per tour), booking required. Book online at eventbrite.com and search ‘Silver Sunday Guided Walk 2016’ or email info@ westminsterguides.org. uk for more information 7
Goddette Jeffrey took part in a historical tour of Covent Garden last year. She said:
“Silver Sunday has been absolutely marvellous. This is the first time I’ve taken up the opportunity of doing something new and different.” Fun Day Sunday 2nd October, 11am-3.30pm James Hill House, 196-200 Kensal Road, W10 5BS A fun-filled activity day of yoga, crafts, nail care and a raffle followed by a sumptuous finger buffet. The day will finish with live singing, a 8
comedy performance by Mike Marandi and tea and cakes. Hosted by Octavia Housing. 50 spaces, booking required. Afiya Agard on 020 8354 5676 or Raghbir Ram on 020 8354 5677
Listen and sing together with this popular local choir. 50 spaces available (35 sitting, 15 standing), booking required. Penfold Community Hub on 020 3815 0033
Celebrations at Leonora House Sunday 2nd October, 11am-4pm Leonora House, 49 Lanark Road, Maida Vale, W9 1RA Enjoy Irish dancing, hand massages and chair exercise. After a delicious lunch, be prepared for Passport to Broadway, a musical theatre experience. Hosted by Octavia Housing. 30 spaces, booking required. Sandra Ofori on 020 7286 9226
Church Street Singers Sunday 2nd October, 11.30am-12.30pm St. John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD
Guided walk with City of London Guide Sunday 2nd October, 12 midday-1.30pm St. John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD Explore the history of St. John’s Wood, Church Street and the Lisson Green Estate taking in the canals
Silver Sunday
and railways. Hosted by Penfold Community Hub and Westminster Music Library. 15 spaces, booking required.
Sunday afternoon with the Wallace Collection and Wigmore Hall
Penfold Community Hub on 020 3815 0033
Tai Chi taster sessions Chinese Cultural Heritage Day Sunday 2nd October, 12 midday–5pm Chinese Community Centre, 2 Leicester Court, WC2H 7DW Performances and activities including a Dim Sum workshop, Tai Chi, calligraphy and Chinese arts and crafts courtesy of the Chinese Community Centre. 50 spaces, booking required. Debbie Cheung on 020 7439 3822, debbie. cheung@ccc.org.uk or jackson.tsang@ccc.org.uk
Sunday 2nd October, sessions every 15 minutes from 12.30-2.30pm Charing Cross Library, 4-6 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0HF Try the ancient Chinese tradition of Tai Chi, thought to lead to a healthy body and tranquil mind. Run by volunteer instructors from The Taoist Tai Chi Society of Great Britain and hosted by Charing Cross Library. 15 spaces per session, no booking required.
Sunday 2nd October, 12.30-4.45pm Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN and Wigmore Hall, 36 Wigmore Street, W1U 2BP The day will begin with lunch at the beautiful Wallace Collection followed by a short drawing session. You will then walk to Wigmore Hall for coffee and a music session to create a piece of music in response to the art. This event is for people living with dementia and their carers and is hosted in partnership with Westminster Arts. 20 spaces, booking required. Kathryn Gilfoy on 020 7321 2702 or kathryn@ westminsterarts.org.uk
020 7641 4623 for more information. 9
Chair Yoga Sunday 2nd October, 1-1.45pm Paddington Library, 45 Porchester Road, W2 5DU Gentle and relaxing exercise while sitting in a chair. Hosted by Westminster Libraries. 10 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 6200 (ask for Paddington Library) or paddingtonlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
‘Music of My Youth’ meet up Sunday 2nd October, 1-2.30pm St. John’s Wood Library, 20 Circus Avenue, NW8 6PD Chat about vinyl music from your youth whilst listening to your favourite sounds. Refreshments will be provided. Hosted by Westminster Libraries and Penfold Community Hub. 20 spaces available, booking required. Penfold Community Hub on 020 3815 0033 10
Poetry and play reading Sunday 2nd October, 2-2.45pm Paddington Library, 45 Porchester Road, W2 5DU Take part in a poetry and play reading group. Free refreshments will be available. Hosted by Westminster Libraries. 10 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 6200 (ask for Paddington Library) or paddingtonlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
Discover the hidden gardens of Regent’s Park Sunday 2nd October, 2-3.30pm Meet at Great Portland Street station, NW1. End point Baker Street station, NW1. Visit the beautiful Nash Terraces and their gardens in Regent’s Park whilst learning about the fascinating history of the park. Hosted
by City of Westminster Tour Guide, Richard Cohen. 25 spaces, booking required. Richard Cohen on 07852 141 425 or richard. cohen2@btinternet.com
Ben Uri Gallery and Museum Sunday 2nd October, 2-4pm Ben Uri Gallery and Museum, 108a Boundary Road, off Abbey Road, NW8 0RH Join us at the Ben Uri Gallery for a tour of new exhibition YALTA 1945 by Russian duo Komar and Melamid. Following the tour, you can get creative in the gallery space. No art skills required, just follow your inspiration. Hosted by Ben Uri Gallery and Museum. 12 spaces, booking required. Ed Dickinson on 020 7604 3991 or edwardd@ benuri.org
Ben Uri Gallery
Silver Sunday
Afternoon Tea Sunday 2nd October, 2-5pm Spend the afternoon in beautiful surroundings in Eaton or Belgrave Square Gardens. Help with transport is available for those who need it. This event is available to Open Age members only. It’s free to join. Organised by local resident, Marina Kaloghirou. 25 spaces, booking required.
A Very Classic film matinee Sunday 2nd October, 2-5pm Darwin House, Churchill Gardens Estate, 104 Grosvenor Road, SW1V 3LH Enjoy light refreshments and make new friends before a screening of the British classic mystery, Green for Danger. Hosted by Westminster City Council’s Adult Services. 25 spaces, booking required. Richard Booth on 020 7641 2826 (please leave a message and your tel) or rtbooth@westminster. gov.uk
Jess Grieve on 07530 734 489 or jgrieve@openage. org.uk
In an English Country Garden Sunday 2nd October, 2-5pm Penfold Community Hub, 60 Penfold Street, NW8 8PJ Information and talks on gardening traditions followed by a special performance of songs and music by the Connaught Opera at 3pm. Free refreshments will be served. 50 spaces, no booking required. 020 3815 0033
Uriel Orlow: Mafavuke’s Trial and Other Plant Stories exhibition Sunday 2nd October, 2-5pm The Showroom, 63 Penfold Street, NW8 8PQ An exhibition of film, photography and plants expanding from the newly launched Medicinal Garden at Penfold Community Hub. Free refreshments across the afternoon. Unlimited spaces, no booking required. 020 7724 4300
Active Jubilee Sunday 2nd October, 2.15-3pm Jubilee Hall,30 The Piazza, Covent Garden, WC2E 8BE This class will help you to increase flexibility, mobility and strength. Hosted by Jubilee Hall Trust. 30 spaces, booking required. 020 7836 4007 or sales@jubileehalltrust.org 11
Art workshop by Cass Art Sunday 2nd October, 3-4pm Charing Cross Library, 4-6 Charing Cross Road, WC2H 0HF Unleash your inner creativity in an enjoyable and instructive art class. Materials will be provided. Led by an artist from Cass Art and hosted by Westminster Libraries. 10 spaces, booking required. Charing Cross Library on 020 7641 4623
The Soho Society and St. Anne’s Church Tea Dance Sunday 2nd October, 3-5pm St. Anne’s Community Hall, 55 Dean Street, W1D 6AF Enjoy an afternoon of dancing, live music and flapper dancers. Tea and cake will be served. Booking is essential. 60 spaces, booking required. Clare Lynch on 020 7439 4303 or email admin@ thesohosociety.org.uk
Online shopping workshop Friday 30th September, 11-11.45am and Sunday 2nd October, 4-4.45pm Paddington Library, 45 Porchester Road, W2 5DU Hints and tips to help you shop online plus hand outs to help you continue shopping after the session. Hosted by Westminster Libraries and Owen Grey. 9 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 6200 (ask for Paddington Library) or paddingtonlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
“It is so important that older people feel included in London’s communities. That is why I support Silver Sunday and hope that you all have a wonderful time celebrating the valuable contributions that older people make. “In a city as large as London there is no need for older people to ever feel lonely or isolated but sadly some do. As Mayor, I want to make sure that everyone is engaged and active in their community – young or older.” Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
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Silver Sunday
Pre- and post-Silver Sunday events Silver Sunday in Stratford-upon-Avon
The Queen’s Gallery trip and art workshop
Online family history workshop
Sunday 25th September, 9am-6.30pm Meet at The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU Enjoy a trip to Stratfordupon-Avon to celebrate 400 years since the birth of William Shakespeare. Hosted by the Abbey Community Association. 47 spaces, booking required. Cost: £15 Travel and light refreshments are included in the cost.
Wednesday 28th September, 1.45pm The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace Road, SW1A 1AA Join a highlights tour of the Queen’s Gallery including Maria Merian’s Butterflies’ exhibition and an informal art workshop. Materials and refreshments will be provided. 20 spaces, booking required.
Friday 30th September, 10-10.45am Sunday 2nd October, 3-3.45pm Paddington Library, 45 Porchester Road, W2 5DU Research your family tree with help from Owen Grey. Hosted by Westminster Libraries. Nine spaces per session, booking required.
George Banya on 020 7222 0303 or george. banya@theabbeycentre. org.uk
Call Claire Hoggan on 020 7266 2776
020 7641 6200 (ask for Paddington Library) or paddingtonlibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
WIN London Zoo tickets We have five pairs of tickets to London Zoo courtesy of Zoological Society of London. To win, let us know what you took part in on Silver Sunday by 7th Oct. Email rsvp@ westminster.gov.uk or write to us at the address on p2. 13
Art meditation and coffee social Friday 30th September, 10.30am-1pm Victoria Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Art meditation is an easy mindful practice with many benefits. Help your brain recharge and boost your concentration, creative thinking and focus whilst finding peace with your inner self. Tea, coffee and homemade treats will be available. 15 spaces, booking required.
authentic, traditional Music Hall. The line-up includes special guest Bobby Crush and children from Sylvia Young Theatre School. Courtesy of the Player’s Theatre and St John’s Smith Square. Song sheets will be supplied. 580 spaces, booking required. Cost: £2 booking fee Call the Box Office on 020 7222 1061 quoting Silver Sunday Music Hall or book online at sjss.org.uk
Call 020 3653 0321 or email anna@vida.co.uk
Old Time Music Hall Friday 30th September, 4-6pm St John’s Smith Square, SW1P 3HA A traditional Music Hall event presented by the worldfamous Players’ Theatre, the oldest club dedicated to presenting and preserving 14
A Rodgers and Hammerstein celebration and sing-along Saturday 1st October, 10.30am Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Join Westminster Music Library at this Rodgers and Hammerstein sing-along to classic songs from Showboat, Sound of Music, The King and I, Carousel and Oklahoma. 35 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 6200 (select option three) or musiclibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
Share a book session Music Hall performer Jan Hunt
Tuesday 4th October, 4-5pm Mayfair Library, 25 South Audley Street, W1K 2PB Enjoy passages from classic fiction and discuss what you have read with the rest of the group over light refreshments. 8 spaces, booking required. Katrina Blench on 020 7641 4905
Pre- and post-Silver Sunday events
Age Friendly Museums Day
‘Sittercise’ exercise class Friday 7th October, 11.30am-12.15pm Mayfair Library, 25 South Audley Street, W1K 2PB Get fit with these gentle chair-based exercise classes run by a qualified Hatha Yoga instructor. 10 spaces, booking required. Katrina Blench on 020 7641 4905
Silver Screening of ‘The Butler’ Friday 7th October, 2-5pm Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Afternoon screening of ‘The Butler,’ followed by tea and cakes. Courtesy of Open Age.
100 spaces, booking required. Alexandra Kerswell or Jenny Bloodworth on 020 3713 8737
Theatre tickets to ‘The Autumn Garden’ Saturday 8th October, 3pm Jermyn Street Theatre, 16b Jermyn Street, SW1Y 6ST Reduced-price tickets to see a performance of The Autumn Garden, a slyly funny and melancholic tale of lost hopes and unrequited love. 12 spaces, booking required. Cost: £5 per ticket Jermyn Street Theatre, 16b Jermyn Street, SW1Y 6ST Box Office on 020 7287 2875 quoting Silver Sunday
Sunday 9th October, 10.30am-4pm British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG Visit the galleries and exhibitions of The British Museum. This event is for people living in care homes. 60 spaces, booking required. Jane Turner at jturner@ britishmuseum.org
Filipino Club Tea Dance Sunday 9th October, 2-7pm Filipino Club, Westminster Cathedral Hall, Ambrosden Avenue, SW1P 1QW Cultural dancing, sing-alongs, line dancing and exercise courtesy of the Filipino Club. 200 spaces, booking required for groups of five and over only. People attending on their own or with 2-4 people can just drop-in. Florencia Kingscote on 0787 5867 739 or flora_k78@yahoo.co.uk 15
Unlimited spaces, no booking required. 020 8962 5500
The Second Half Career Art Exhibition and Sale: Celebrating Living Old Masters 2016 Friday 14th October, 11am-8pm The Second Half Centre, St. Charles Centre for Health and Wellbeing, Exmoor Street, W10 6DZ An exciting and inspirational story of transformation and rediscovery of nine artists who all discovered the love of their craft over 50. These talented artists are a wonderful example of people who are searching for new ways to develop in the second half of their life. The Second Half Foundation has organised this event to support the work of The Second Half Centre, now run by Open Age. 16
Friendship Matinee at the Royal Albert Hall: Best of Broadway Tuesday 18th October, doors open at 2.15pm for a 3pm start Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP Experience the glitz and glamour of Broadway and the West End at this Royal Philharmonic Orchestra concert, featuring your favourite show tunes and music. Hear timeless songs from some of the finest shows including Cats, The Phantom of the Opera, Evita and Sunset Boulevard, Les MisĂŠrables, Mamma Mia!, Miss Saigon, Cabaret and many more. Hosted by the Royal Albert Hall. Booking required. Cost: ÂŁ5 per ticket 020 7589 8212 or book online at royalalberthall. com/tickets/events
Clarinet and poetry recital Wednesday 9th November, 6-7pm Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Music and poetry from the First World War to commemorate Armistice Day, hosted by Westminster Music Library. 35 spaces, booking required. 020 7641 6200 (select option three) or musiclibrary@ westminster.gov.uk
Westminster Tea Dance
Tea Dance
Join us on Sunday 6th November for a very special afternoon. Enjoy an afternoon of dancing, live music and great company plus a delicious afternoon tea amid the glamorous setting of the Great Room at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane.
to live music and meet new people. The Volunteer Police Cadets are on hand to dance with guests so don’t be put off if you’re coming alone.
or neighbour who may like to come along please do let them know about it or offer to accompany them.
The event is a great opportunity for people who may not often get out of the house, so if you have a friend
Last year 86% of Tea Dance guests said they met new people at the event.
and your ticket will be sent to Include your name, address, you in mid-October. Visit: westminster.gov.uk/ telephone number and tea-dance dietary requirements and if you need wheelchair access. Write to: Tea Dance, 18th You can apply for a maximum floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, of two tickets. If you’re applying for a friend or carer London, SW1E 6QP please include their name If more people apply for and address and we will send tickets than are available, they their ticket directly to them. will be allocated in a prize The deadline to apply is 6pm draw. We will only contact you on Monday 19th September if you have been successful
in receiving a ticket. Tickets are for Westminster residents aged 65 and over only. They are not for people who live outside of Westminster. This will be checked when you apply. Carers must also live in Westminster. The Tea Dance is generously supported by Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel, Shaftesbury PLC, The Sir Simon Milton Foundation and Telegraph Media Group.
Join 1,000 guests from across Westminster to dance
Applying for tickets
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Autumn events and activities Head into autumn with this great selection of free and low-cost events and activities. Totally Thames
Open House London
Throughout September A month of free events taking place along the River Thames including exhibitions, talks and music. Cost: Some exhibitions have a charge, please check online for details. totallythames.org
17th-18th September London’s largest festival of architecture and design opens up buildings to the general public who don’t otherwise have access. Cost: Free openhouselondon.org.uk
Victory Wind Quintet Thursday 22nd September, 6-7pm Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Join Westminster Music Library for a programme of music with the Victory Wind Quintet. Refreshments will be available. Cost: Free, booking required Tel: 020 7641 6200
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Evelyn Dove: Britain’s Black Cabaret Queen Wednesday 26th October, 6.30pm Museum Piano Gallery, Royal Academy of Music, Marylebone Road, NW1 5HT Writer Stephen Bourne celebrates the life and career of the singer Evelyn Dove, the subject of his latest book. Dove was a student at the Royal Academy of Music and in the booming cabaret age of the 1920s and 1930s she thrilled audiences around the world. Part of Black History Month. Cost: Free tickets available from the Box Office only (free tickets not available online) Tel: 020 7873 7300 ram.ac.uk/whats-on
Events and activities
Wind and Words recital of poetry and clarinet music Wednesday 9th November, 6-7pm Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD Join Westminster Music Library for a concert of clarinet music and poetry featuring a mixture of classic well known poems and original verse to mark Remembrance Day. Cost: Free, booking required Tel: 020 7641 6200
The Lord Mayor’s show 12th November, 9am-5.30pm Celebrating its 800th year, the Lord Mayor’s Show is packed full of events and activities including a river pageant, Lord Mayor’s procession and guided walks rounded off by a magnificent firework display over the River Thames. Cost: Free lordmayorsshow.london
Movement and exercise Mondays, 11am-12 midday The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU Cost: £2 per session Tel: 020 7222 0303 theabbeycentre.org.uk
Abbey talks and social club
Choir sessions Tuesdays, 11.30am-1.30pm Dragon Hall, 17 Stukeley Street, WC2B 5LT Sing-along to show songs and popular standards. All levels are welcome. Cost: Free Tel: 020 7404 7274 dragonhall.org.uk/ activities
Mondays, 2-3pm The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU Cost: £1 Tel: 020 7222 0303 theabbeycentre.org.uk
Silverfit fun and fitness sessions Tuesdays, meet at 10.30am for an 11am start Will to Win Café, Hyde Park, South Carriage Drive, W2 2UH Meet new friends and get active at these Nordic walking sessions and guided walks. Cost: Nordic walking - £5 per session, guided walks - free Tel: 07721 419 518 silverfit.org.uk/fun-andfitness
Latin and salsa dance lessons Fridays, 4-5pm The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU Cost: £3 Tel: 020 7222 0303 theabbeycentre.org.uk
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Health and wellbeing Keep active and healthy with our round-up of health and wellbeing services and news. Man about town Free activities for men aged 65 and over are now available from Open Age and it’s up to you to help decide what they are. Men’s Space sessions provide you with the opportunity to socialise and take part in activities that interest you from cookery and physical activity classes to day trips or freestyle music sessions.
Men’s Space activities Table tennis Liam Bennett, an acupuncturist, takes part in a weekly jam with ‘The Groovers’ band through the Men’s Space programme. He says: “Men of our age are a tricky group. If you try to boss us around, we just go and you’ll never see us again so having freedom is important. “I’ve been in loads of bands all over London and I feel like I can offer support to the other people who come along.” To find out more and register contact Russell John on 020 8962 5583 or email rjohn@ openage.org.uk
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Mondays, 3.30-5.30pm The Second Half Centre, St. Charles Centre, Exmoor Street, W10 6DZ
Gardening Tuesdays, 11am-1pm The Second Half Centre, St. Charles Centre, Exmoor Street, W10 6DZ
Active Men’s Group Tuesdays, 12.30-1.30pm Hardy House, Great Western Road, W11 1AN Weekly exercise and local walks.
Health sessions Last Thursday of every month, 11am-12 midday Paddington Arts, 32 Woodfield Road, W9 2BE
Join Paddington Book Festival Indulge your love of reading with free events and author talks across Paddington Join Westminster Libraries at the Paddington Book Festival this September for a jam-packed programme of free events in Paddington, Queen’s Park, Maida Vale and Church Street libraries. Local crime fiction writer, Elizabeth Flynn, will be talking about her new book, ‘End of the Roadie’. She says: “My experience of working in a hospital mortuary and with coroners underpins my stories. “My first book opened with a dead body on the courts of Wimbledon and in my second book the murder is set in the fashion world leading up to London Fashion Week. In my most recent book, which
I will be talking about at Paddington Book Festival, the mystery unfolds after the roadie for a very famous pop star is shot outside the stage door of the Apollo in Hammersmith.
“I love reading and hope everyone will get stuck in.” “I’m delighted to be taking part in the festival. I know the area well, having lived in Paddington from 1979 until 1993. I hope people will enjoy reading my book as much as I enjoy meeting people at events like this. Most of all I love reading and I hope
n ingto Padd al v FestiSept 2016 – July Fest #Pad
everyone will get stuck in.” Elizabeth will be at the Paddington Library, Porchester Road, W2 5DU on Tuesday 6th September at 6.30pm. Visit paddingtonfestival. co.uk or call 020 7641 6200 and ask for Paddington Library.
Donate a book Find out more about your local area with a new community-run bookshelf at Church Street Library in collaboration with Serpentine Galleries. Visit Church Street Library at 67 Church Street, NW8 8EU to take a look. 23
Find your story From the slums of Pimlico to Operation Triangle: The story of one Westminster resident during the First World War. Private Ernest Boots, a council road sweeper from Pimlico who cleaned the streets of Westminster during the ‘Great Manure Crisis’ of 1904, died in battle on the 1st of July 1916, a date when the army lost 20,000 men in one day. Ernest Boots was born in Belgravia in 1883. His first home was a slum by the side of Pimlico’s Grosvenor Canal, and his father Bill worked for a corn chandler, delivering fodder for the horses that underpinned London’s economy. When his father died in 1899, Ernest took jobs as a bank messenger and light porter, before answering a call from the council to deal with ‘The Great Manure Crisis.’ Ernest was one of a legion of road sweepers recruited in 1904 who stopped Westminster 24
becoming submerged under tonnes of horse manure. Private Boots joined the King’s Royal Rifles (KRR) in April 1915. On 23rd June 1916 he was one of 47 new recruits to join the 2nd KRR in France as they prepared for Operation Triangle, a diversionary attack planned for the night before the ‘Big Push’ on the Somme. Ernest lost his life during the attack early in the morning on 1st July 1916. His wife Sarah did not have the means to visit his grave in France, so it meant a lot to her that the council unveiled a memorial in 1921, in the city Ernest called home. Researched by archives volunteer, Holly Robjohns.
Throughout the centenary of the First World War, Westminster Archives Centre is telling the fascinating stories of Westminster residents who served in the Great War. You can research your own family stories at: Westminster Archives Centre, 10 St. Ann’s Street, SW1P 2DE. Visit westminster.gov. uk/archives or email archives@westminster. gov.uk
Westminster Remembers
First World War Centenary events Wounded: Conflict, Casualties and Care Monday to Sunday, 10am-6pm (last entry 5.15pm) until 15th January 2017 Venue: Science Museum, Exhibition Road, SW7 2DD This exhibition illustrates the remarkable medical responses and innovations of the war through the stories of those who were wounded and those who cared for them. Cost: Free Tel: 0333 241 4000 sciencemuseum.org.uk
Engineers at War: From Home Front to Battle Front Until 11th November 2019 An online exhibit exploring the role innovation and inventions in engineering played in defence, infrastructure and on the home front, as well as personal stories of remarkable engineers. engineersatwar. imeche.org Visit 1914.org for more centenary events.
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Local listings
Booking may be required for some activities, so please call ahead to check.
There are 100s of free and low-cost activities taking place at your Community Hub every week. North Westminster Open session
Art for All
Social lunches
Saturday 17th September, 11am-3pm Penfold Community Hub, 60 Penfold Street, NW8 8PJ Join the Penfold Community Hub for the launch of their autumn programme including crafts, vegetable growing and refreshments. Cost: Free Tel: 020 3815 0033
Wednesdays, 10.30am-12.30pm Hardy House, 64 Great Western Road, W11 1AA Find your own style in these fun group sessions suitable for all abilities. Refreshments and materials are provided. Cost: £2 Tel: 020 3713 8737
Wednesdays, 1-2.30pm Penfold Community Hub, 60 Penfold Street, NW8 8PJ Cost: £4.50 for two courses Tel: 020 3815 0033
Ukulele lessons Thursdays, 2.30-4pm Open Age Westbourne Hub, Warwick Community Hall, 300 Harrow Road, W2 5HG Cost: £1.50 Tel: 020 3713 8737 If you find it difficult to get out of the house, Book Talk is a monthly reading group which meets over the phone, run by Westminster Home Library Service and Open Age. Call 020 7641 5405 to find out more.
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Local listings
Central Westminster Steady and stable classes Mondays, 1-2.15pm Open Age, London Jesus Church, 83 Margaret Street, W1W 8TB Improve your mobility in these fun classes to help reduce falls. Cost: Free Tel: 020 8962 5582
Chair exercise Thursdays, 11am12 midday Open Age Westbourne Hub, Waterside Court, 75 Fermoy Road, W9 3LP Seated classes to help you stretch and tone. Cost: £1 Tel: 020 3713 8737
South Westminster Meditation classes Mondays, 10-11am Open Age Churchill Hub, St. Margaret’s Activity Centre, 1 Carey Place, SW1V 2RT Cost: £1 Tel: 020 7976 6354
Jewellery classes Mondays 2-4pm Open Age Churchill Hub, Glastonbury House, Abbots Manor Estate, Warwick Way, SW1V 4NT Cost: £2 Tel: 020 7976 6354
Singing for all Tuesdays, 2.30-4.30pm Open Age Churchill Hub, Darwin House, 104 Grosvenor Road, Churchill Gardens Estate, SW1V 3DH Cost: £2 Tel: 020 7976 6354
Community Hub support service If you want to attend events and need help to get to them, a new service from Open Age can help. A member of Open Age will visit you at home to identify the activities you are interested in attending and accompany you to events. Speak to your GP who will refer you if you’re eligible or call Bee Burgess at Open Age on 020 8962 5584.
New evening and weekend GP services You can now see a GP or practice nurse seven days a week if you are registered or resident in Queen’s Park or Paddington. Evening and weekend appointments are available at St. Charles Centre for Health and
Wellbeing, Exmoor Street, W10 6DZ from 6pm to 9pm on weekdays, 8am to 4pm on Saturdays and 9am to 1pm on Sundays. Services include routine check-ups and small wound care. Book via your own practice. 27
Get involved… volunteer Volunteering can open up new opportunities, from visiting new places and meeting new people to developing new interests or cultivating old ones.
David Allen-Hogarth, 78, from St. John’s Wood, is a volunteer coordinator for Neighbourcare St. John’s Wood and Maida Vale. The charity befriends and organises social activities for older people. David says: “I decided to step up and get involved as a volunteer coordinator, recruiting and supporting other volunteers and also doing half the driving. 28
“We take people in our minibus all over the place, from picnics in Regent’s Park to tea parties and classical music concerts. One of my favourite outings is our weekly mosaic class at Francis Holland School. The latest one is on permanent display at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.
“I decided to step up and get involved.” “There are many ways older people can get involved in volunteering. If you’re not able to visit older people or
help them in and out of a minibus you might be able to make phone calls or help in other ways so it’s worth exploring what opportunities there are in your area.” To volunteer with Neighbourcare call 020 7586 5153. To find out more about other local volunteering opportunities visit westminster.gov.uk/ volunteering and click ‘find a volunteering opportunity’. If you need help to find a volunteering opportunity or find it difficult to get out of the house please contact One Westminster on 020 7723 1216.
Volunteering
Find a volunteering opportunity If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, check out these upcoming events and opportunities:
Regent Street Motor Show Saturday 5th November Join the Team Westminster Ambassadors at the largest free motor show in the UK Tel: 0300 365 9910 ambassadors@teamwestminster.org.uk
Handel and Hendrix Museum
Volunteer at this small museum in the heart of Mayfair helping with reception, the museum shop and exhibitions. Tel: 020 7495 1685 volunteer@handelhendrix.org
Westminster City Archives
Westminster City Archives provides a unique record of life in Westminster, Marylebone and Paddington from Tudor times to the present day. If you’re interested in history, volunteering is the perfect way to get involved in open days, indexing projects and fairs. Tel: 020 7641 5180 westminster.gov.uk/archives
Become a volunteer befriender
Volunteer Centre Westminster is looking for volunteer befrienders who can give just one or two hours each week to spend time with an older person. Tel: 020 7723 1216 info@onewestminster.org.uk
Get involved: Senior Citizens Forum Westminster City Hall Wednesday 14th September, 2pm Join in lively debates and discussions on topics that are important to you. The next meeting focuses on housing. For more information email westminsterscf@aol.com or write to Westminster Senior Citizens Forum, c/o One Westminster, 37 Chapel Street, London NW1 5DP.
Earn Time Credits for your volunteering For every hour you volunteer, you could receive a Time Credit to spend on local attractions, events and activities. You could also spend your Time Credit on group trips to classical music concerts, special exhibitions at museums or the cinema. Visit westminster.gov.uk/volunteering to find out more. 29
Keep calm and hang up Advice to help you to combat nuisance calls. Nuisance calls can range from repeated cold calls, silent calls, automated messages or scammers trying to con you out of your money and personal details. The callers are often pushy and intrusive.
Advice from Trading Standards Follow this guidance to avoid telephone scammers. • ensure you are registered ex-directory with your telecommunications provider • register with the Telephone Preference Service at tpsonline.org. uk or call 0345 070 0707 • change your telephone number • use the Caller Identification display on your handset to help screen your calls 30
* Names have been changed.
In the past year in London alone over 800 people reported receiving a call to the police in which someone posed as the police or their bank. Jackie*, 83, received a call from someone claiming to be from her bank telling her she needed a new debit card, which they would deliver to her. She was persuaded to hand over her card in exchange for a replacement card, which she later found out was fake. The fraudsters withdrew £30,000 from her bank account. Linda*, 84, contacted the Trading Standards team via the
“It has been a life saver. I can answer the phone with confidence now.” police after receiving up to six unwanted phone calls day and night, often waking her up. The team installed a nuisance call blocking device. She says:“It has been a life saver. I can answer the phone with confidence now.” To find out more about blocking devices, call Truecall on 0800 0336 330 or visit truecall.co.uk
My life in Westminster Edward Reeve, 73, from Pimlico has been racing MG cars since 1962, competing in over 300 races.
“I hope that my story can encourage older people to get on with life and do the things they have always wanted.” so I went along. I’m not sure exactly what it was that got me hooked, I think it must have been the speed. I’ve been racing ever since. “It hasn’t all been straight forward, in 1970 I was racing and turned over my car, ending up in hospital with a broken wrist and a couple of fractured ribs. “My love for racing started shortly after I bought my first car. I was at university and got a blue Ford Anglia 1200 with a white stripe. “My friend suggested I join the college motor club and
“In 1977 I took part in the first ever MGCC Midget Championship race at Brands Hatch and have been on the starting grid in nearly every race since. The highlight was becoming champion in 2004 and 2006.
“I must have finished second in the championship about 17 times! It hasn’t put me off though. The plan is always to make the car faster for next year, that’s why it stays fun. “Recently I have been much less involved in the engineering and mechanical side and taken a more active role in administration, becoming Chair of the Midget Championship Committee. There are lots of different aspects to get involved in. “I hope that my story can encourage older people to get on with life and do the things they have always wanted.“ 31