The Westminster Reporter

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W E S T M I N S T E R

ISSUE 106 CHRISTMAS 2011

Westminster City Council magazine

Get ready for 2012 The Games are nearly here

How we’re prepared for winter

What’s on this winter?

Have a merry West End Christmas

And what you can do too

WIN!

A West End mini-break

Bill Nighy turns on the magical Regent Street lights Westminster City Council

Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

see page 15 for details

Community Reassurance

Nathan thinks a gang is a family.

ADVERT

Give him a real family.

Make a difference. Foster Care.

Call 0800 0322 533 to ďŹ nd out more or to register for our fostering information evening on 7th February. Or visit www.westminster.gov.uk/fostering 2 The Westminster Reporter

ISSUE 106 CHRISTMAS 2011

Westminster City Council magazine

contents Follow us on

@CityWestminster

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

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

If you encounter delivery problems, please call the communications team on 020 7641 2259.

Also available from libraries and leisure centres.

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

To discuss editorial matters, please contact: The Editor, The Westminster Reporter, 17th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria St, London SW1E 6QP. Telephone: 020 7641 2259 Fax: 020 7641 2958 Email: reporter@westminster.gov.uk Minicom: 020 7641 2948 The editorial team: Claire Appleby, Emily Frost, Nicky Jackson and Clym Sutcliffe.

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 2259.

Bill Nighy on stage to light up Regent Street

Cabinet Member responsible for Communications: Councillor Colin Barrow, Leader of Westminster City Council.

WIN!

10

How we set the budget

20

Supporting local business

12

Get ready for 2012

22

Winter in the city

14

Have a merry West End Christmas

PLUS

19

Total eclipse of the arch

WIN!

Win great prizes – page 15 and 23

Published by Westminster City Council, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP Printed by Service Point UK Ltd, 161-165 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3AL Printed on FSC® certified material.

Please recycle The Westminster Reporter.

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

The Westminster Reporter 3

News in brief

Youth MP’s Column Looking forward to The Games As we move into the New Year, a lot of attention will be on the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Omar Archer, our Youth MP for Westminster, tells us why he he’ss llooking ooking forward to The Games.

Your One Stop Express

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raditional One Stop Services in W Westminster will close o 16th December on 2 2011.

There are now m many more ways that y can contact, pay you a get information and express and a support from t council. the www.westminster.

• Go online at w gov.uk/youronestoponline • Visit your local Your One Stop Express self serve machine – in all libraries and other convenient locations • Pay by cash, card or cheque at your local Post Office Branch.

Find out more at www.westminster. gov.uk/youronestop, or ask at your local library.

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think the Olympics coming to London is a very good thing. It has inspired the people of London and a lot more people have been getting involved in sports and are excited about The Games coming to our city.

The Olympics will be good for everyone. Residents will have a world class event on their doorstep and businesses will gain from tourism.

The Olympics are a very big deal and it’s exciting that we’ll get to see them in our lifetime. A lot of money has been spent to prepare for The Games but I think this money has been worth investing and will mean that London 2012 will be something to be proud of.

Even E if people l can’t ’t gett tickets, ti k t there th will be a great atmosphere across Westminster. I think we’ll be able to recreate the atmosphere that you would get in the stadiums but in places like Hyde Park where you’ll be able to watch it on big screens for free.

My message to everyone in Westminster is to get involved and get in the spirit of The Games. The more people who get involved, the better.

Omar Archer, 13 Youth MP for Westminster See page 12 to see how Westminster is preparing for London 2012.

If you want to get involved with the Youth Council or find out more about their work, call Simeon Earnshaw on 020 7641 1048 or email searnshaw@westminster.gov.uk

4 The Westminster Reporter

Shape the city you live in

R

esidents are invited to have their say in shaping the future of Westminster, as the council launches its consultation on its new City Management Plan.

It sets out the council’s policies on heritage, housing, transport systems, open spaces, and environmental credentials, and will be Westminster’s definitive planning guide for years to come.

Find out more at www. westminster.gov.uk/cmp or call 0207 641 2503. The consultation is open until 23rd March 2012.

Leader’s Column

Rock’n’roll wedding

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ld Marylebone Town Hall has more than its fair share of rock ‘n’ roll wedding history.

Loved by stars for its history, photogenic architecture and central London location, the town hall is the capital’s busiest register office.

The iconic venue recently played host to one of Britain’s most treasured musicians, Sir Paul McCartney, who wed Nancy Shevell on Sunday 9 October.

Alison Cathcart, Westminster City Council’s Superintendent Registrar, who married the couple, said: “I am overjoyed to have played a part in bringing these two wonderful people together in marriage.“ For more information on Marylebone Town Hall visit www. westminster.gov.uk/registrar

Tell Us Once…and we’ll tell the rest

W

hen someone dies, there are lots of organisations that need to be told at a time when you probably least feel like doing this. These could include council housing departments, adult services, income support, libraries and passport services. The council now provides a service called “Tell Us Once” to make things easier for you.

Tell Us Once reduces the amount of time you need to spend contacting these departments enabling you to provide all the information when registering the death of a loved one.

This will then be passed on to the people who need to know.

For more information visit www. westminster.gov.uk/tellusonce

Managing Our City Managing a city which is home to more than 250,000 residents and receives more than one million visitors every day is a challenge Westminster City Council faces every very day.

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his challenge was visibly demonstrated in the recent Channel 5 television series ‘London: The Inside Story’ which focused on the front line services provided by the council.

I hope that you might have been able to catch some of this excellent series, but if you haven’t it demonstrates the range of services we provide paid for by your council tax.

From people you probably see every day, like street sweepers, to less public roles such as our trading standards officers who help keep businesses within the law and our Funerals Officer who has the serious role of sorting out the affairs of citizens who die alone.

One of the most visible services is provided by our parking team. We are determined to protect, and where we can, extend resident parking. As you probably know we are introducing new charges for visitor parking in Soho, Mayfair and parts of Marylebone. We will monitor the impact of these changes and if it is clear that there are demonstrable and significant damaging impacts due to these we will change the policies.

We welcome views on our parking policies and on other areas where we are developing the way we manage the city. In this issue of the Reporter, on page 4 (opposite) we ask you to

Staff featured in ‘London: The inside story’

contribute your views to our new City Management Plan and on page 21 offer you the opportunity to take part in our review of Community Governance.

In every area of policy Westminster listens carefully and responds to concerns raised by residents and businesses. From agreeing to business requests to extend the number of traffic free days in the West End to meeting resident requests for better schools, we know that our success depends on responding effectively to the voices of the people we serve.

I look forward to our residents and visitors making the most of all of the high streets across our city as we prepare for Christmas, and would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and happy 2012.

Cllr Colin Barrow CBE, Leader of Westminster City Council

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32

The number of Westminster care leavers who are now studying at university

30,000+

The number of volunteers in Westminster

Tributes paid to children in care

On Tuesday 27th October, Westminster paid tribute to the fantastic achievements of its Looked After Children (children in care).

The Big Lunch 2012 is the year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and what better way to celebratee than by getting together with your neighbours for a Big Lunch?

T

Mohamad receives his educational achievement award from The Lord Mayor of Westminster.

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he Lord Mayor of Westminster, Cllr Susie Burbridge, presented certificates to children and young people at an event at the Tate Britain in Pimlico.

These annual awards acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the young people, particularly at school. Many of Westminster’s Looked After Children have come from quite difficult backgrounds and their awards are a great tribute to both themselves and their carers.

One award winner Mohamad Yasin Alizadeh (pictured above) is currently supported by the leaving care service having been looked after until he was 18 years old. He is now in his second year at University, where he studies architecture. He also volunteers to teach kick boxing at a Westminster sports centre and is a volunteer for a project called Lilac, (leading improvements for looked after children).

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer email fostering@ westminster.gov.uk or visit www.westminster.gov.uk/fostering

6 The Westminster Reporter

he Big Lunch has been running since 2009 and last year more people than ever took part. In gardens and in streets, from laid-back picnics to full-blown parties, almost two million people made new friends and had fun.

And in 2012, the Big Lunch will take place on Sunday 3rd June, the weekend of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

June might seem a long way off right now, but to make the most of any street party, it’s important to plan in advance.

If you are interested in taking part in the Big Lunch, let the council know. As well as helping you with arrangements such as road closures, the council’s Civic Community team can also give you plenty of advice and tips and how to make the most of your event.

Email the team at civiccommunity@ westminster.gov.uk. To find out more about The Big Lunch, visit www.thebiglunch.com

Westminster City Council’s

‘Your Choice’ Gang Diversion Programme October 2011

awards

the could win £500. Visit Nominate a local heroo andd they o ommunityawards. /civiicco westminster.gov.uk/civicc is 31 minatti nom The closing date for nominations

war awards a

If you know of a community project where businesses and local people have worked together successfully, nominate it at westminster.gov.uk/civiccommunityawards and the project could win £500. The closing date for nominations is 31st January 2012.

Nominate a local hero and they could win £500. Visit westminster.gov.uk/civiccommunityawards.

The closing date for nominations is 31st January 2012.

Sponsored by

awards

awards

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Westminster City Council Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QP

L city awards A3 004 indd 4

020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk

Choose life, not gangs The council is working with young people to reduce the number that turn to criminal gang activity and violent youth crime. The vast majority of the 15,000 young people who live in Westminster are not involved in gangs, but we need to support those who are at potential risk of criminal involvement.

B

y giving young people a choice between supportive measures to stay away from gangs or facing up to swift justice – which could include eviction, parenting orders and anti-social behaviour orders – we hope that we can support young people to make the right decisions.

“This programme works across agencies, ure w boroughs and age ranges to make ssure wee are offering the right support too the right young people.”

Matt Watson, Serious Youth Violence Manager

What makes a local hero?

W

estminster is full of local heroes – people and organisations who dedicate themselves to helping others in the community. They probably don’t make a big song and dance about what they do – they just get on with it.

But it’s time to give them the recognition they deserve.

Nominate your local hero for a Civic Community Award and they could win £500.

Nomination form Who do you want to nominate?

Name Telephone Email

Award category (please select one) Inspirational Person of the Year Young Person of the Year Outstanding Contribution: Working with Older People Outstanding Contribution: Working with Young People Outstanding Contribution: Improving Westminster Partnership of the Year

Tell us why they deserve to win this award Mat t Wat son

The ‘Your Choice’ programme, in which h the council has invested £1.5m, will workk towards stopping young people from getting involved in gangs in the first place as well as providing gang exit programmes.

A gang mediation programme will also work to build bridges between groups in conflict.

There will be a strong focus on supporting young people into employment and training and offering help to parents and families.

At the same time, we will continue to promote a zero tolerance approach to those who continue to be involved in serious youth violence and gang crime.

For more information visit www.westminster.gov. uk/yourchoice

Your details Name Telephone Email

Please return this to: Phil Sawyer, Communications,17th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP You can also nominate online at www.westminster.gov.uk/civiccommunityawards The Westminster Reporter

7

We have recently changed the way we allocate social housing. One change is that we no longer hold a list of people who do not have a priority for housing.

Grants available now!

Please note that if you were registered on the general waiting list your application will now have been closed.

Up to £5,000 is available for homeowners who are on a means tested benefit.

Important information about Westminster City Council’s Housing Register

If your housing circumstances have changed, for example if you have a medical need to move or you are over 60, please contact the Housing Options Service on 0207 641 1000 to discuss.

Wasting Energy?

Serious Disrepair?

Full details of all the changes we have made are in the new Housing Allocations Scheme at www.westminster.gov.uk/housingoptions

Something missing from your life?

Poor Security?

Cold House?

The grant can be used to: 1. increase your insulation which reduces your fuel bills or 2. improve your heating to stop you feeling cold in Winter or 3. make essential repairs to help maintain your home or 4. provide security measures to make you feel safe in your home.

We arrange for surveyors to assess the works needed and builders to complete the work.

Westminster Adoption To find out more call 020 7641 4080 or visit www.westminster.gov.uk/adoption

8 The Westminster Reporter

If you would like to enquire and find out more please ring Westminster Home Improvement Agency on 0207 641 8959 or 0207 641 6161 Alternatively see our web site at: www.westminster.gov.uk/services/housing

S STMA I R H C IAL

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Looking out for your neighbours In winter especially, looking out for our neighbours can make a big difference. Whether it’s clearing some snow, or popping to the local shop, this help can be invaluable to those who may be less able.

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f your neighbour is elderly there may be relatively simple tasks that they are no longer able to do on their own.

Don’t be shy. Approach them and ask if there’s anything they need help with.

Many older people are fit, healthy and independent – but mention that you are available to help out should they need it.

When you are next going shopping or into town, mention it to your neighbour

“Look out for your elderly op in on them neighbours, drop and make sure ayy that they are okay and see if they need anything.”

Peter Bowman, 60

P e te

r B o w ma n

and ask if there’s anything they’d like you to fetch while you’re there.

Top tips to save money and energy

They last up to 10 times longer than ordinary bulbs, and using one can save you around £40 over the • Don’t leave ve appliances app pplililian ance ces on standby lifetime of the bulb. and remember not to leave mobile • Close your curtains at dusk to stop heat phones on charge unnecessarily. escaping through the windows and check • Is your water too hot? Your cylinder for draughts around windows and doors. thermostat should be set at 60°C/140°F. • Always fill up the washing machine, • Only boil as much water as you need tumble dryer or dishwasher: one full (but remember to cover the elements load uses less energy than two half loads. if you’re using an electric kettle).

• A dripping hot water tap wastes • Always turn off the lights when you energy and in one week wastes leave a room. enough hot water to fill half a bath.

• Use energy saving light bulbs.

If you are seriously concerned for your neighbour’s well-being ask them if they are OK. If you suspect that they need help but they are unresponsive to your offers, then call 020 7641 1175.

Ready for winter After spending a grant of £258,000 on major road repairs following last year’s harsh weather, we’re busy preparing for another cold season.

A

raft of major repairs have been carried out, including pavement reconstruction work at Golden Jubilee Footbridges and pot hole repairs around the iconic Parliament Square.

But we have not stopped there. In total 160,000 tonnes of salt have been stocked and crews are ready if the ice and snow makes a return.

When snow falls, not everywhere can be treated at once so steep gradients, bus routes, areas outside train and tube stations, outside fire and police stations, hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, subway steps and ramps, footbridges, and crossing points are immediate priorities.

In total, we have available: • A full salt barn in Brent, holding over 160,000 tonnes of rock salt.

• Over 1100 bags (28 tonnes) of white salt and corrosion-inhibiting de-icer for schools, estates and council properties.

• Six new larger gritting vehicles, able to carry eight tonnes of salt.

• Two new smaller gritting vehicles, able to carry five tonnes of salt.

• Ten vehicles for mechanically gritting pavements.

• 200 on-street salt bins across the city for sweepers to use to grit pavements.

For more information visit www. westminster.gov.uk/winter

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c.75%

Percentage of council funding allocated by central government.

£880m

The council’s gross budget this year.

Getting the budget right H the council How iis funded

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ur budget comes from three sources – central government g grants, which make up 75% of the b budget, council tax and income that w we generate, such as licensing fees.

When we are setting the budget we cconsider the level of service we want to p provide, whether there needs to be any cchanges to our services, what’s important tto the residents of Westminster, how m much income we expect to raise and w where to set the council tax level.

Getting it right G

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very year we scrutinise how we set the budget to make sure we have considered c everything before making a decision. d A draft budget will be proposed by b the council’s Cabinet in December.

There will then be consultation with T our o other councillors through January and a February before the final budget is agreed at a public council meeting on a 7th 7 March 2012.

r Philip pa Ro e

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estminster, like every other council, is having to scale back non-essential services, whilst making sure the most vulnerable people p p are protected. We need to manage tthe budget but also come up with n new ways to make savings.

“Despite the current financial climate the council has remained committed to keeping council tax low; keeping our streets clean; and protecting the most vulnerable members of society.”

Cllr Philippa Roe, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance

What does my council tax pay for?

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he current Band D council tax bill in Westminster is £687.62 per year, one of the lowest in the country.

It helps to pay for services such as these:

• £2.55 for a two-course hot meal with meals on wheels • £30 to process a tonne of recycling (2,500 tonnes per year) • £53 to process a tonne of rubbish (157,500 tonnes per year) • £32,000 a month to provide one library • £240,000 a year to provide one large Children’s Centre Y Your councilil tax also l goes towards d other h public bli services through the Greater London Authority, such as Transport for London, the police and the fire service. £5.96 per week goes towards these services from a Band D council tax payer.

FFind out more at www.westminster.gov.uk/budget

10 The Westminster Reporter

Cl l

As we start preparing our budget for 2012/13 we face some difficult choices.

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Helping people to live independent lives

Photo courtesy of Open Age

Our new approach to adult social care aims to reduce the number of people who go in to residential care as well as making savings.

W

e are helping more people to live independently by providing those most in need with a personal budget so they can stay in their own home with the help that they need. We will focus on intensive, short-tem efforts to enable long-term independence.

We are looking at solutions to achieve this such as developing housing schemes which offer adapted accommodation and technology such as telecare.

As a result we expect 66% of people who enter recovery and recuperation programmes to need no further care within two years.

K Karen has Down’s syndrome and lilives independently in her own flat in North Westminster.

K

aren is helped by four carers who were chosen by herself and her p parents. She pays them directly through h her personal budget. Residential care would cost considerably more. w After Karen returns from college every eevening, one of her carers helps her with her shopping and planning her meals. h IIn the morning a carer will help with her breakfast before she goes to college. h Karen’s mother, Cathy says: “It suits Karen and us. Karen wouldn’t thrive Karen Slater in residential care. She enjoys the off living ffreedom d li i on her h own and d making her own choices. Through her budget she can live an independent and fulfilling life.”

Using a personal budget

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y April 2013 around 75% of people who receive community based care will have a personal budget.

Adults in need of care will be given more control over their support. A personal budget is money that is either paid directly into your bank account or used to pay for services on your behalf by the council or someone you know.

We help people who are eligible for a personal budget to do a self-assessment. We then agree a support plan which sets out how much your personal budget will be and how it will be used. You can spend it on different services, activities or items as long as they help to meet your eligible social care needs.

These could include technology to help you live at home, a personal assistant or support for further education such as a computer course.

For more information visit www.westminster.gov.uk/independentliving or speak to your care manager.

The Westminster Reporter 11

2nd-5th Extended Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate June Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

ic our Olymp Sign up to information for newsletter mes will affect a G on how the in 2012. you

26th Torch relay reaches July Westminster

27th July- Olympic 12th August Games

Get ready for 20

ster. n i m t s e w .

Visit www ympics gov.uk/ol As m midnight strikes on New Year’s Eve, London and the UK will enter an extraordinary r more and fo to register information

year y as a we prepare to host the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

W Westminster w will host: Games venues • Beach volleyball at Horse Guards Parade, St. James’s Park and The Mall • Archery at Lord’s Cricket Ground • Triathalon and marathon swimming competitions in Hyde Park

Road events • The Olympic Torch Relay • Ten road races • The celebration parade

Open air live sites Rebecca Romero, Team GB, Beijing Olympics

• A big screen is planned in Hyde Park showing coverage of the Olympics and Trafalgar Square during the Paralympics

Olympic facts and figures • The Olympic road cycling event is expected to attract the largest number of people ever to watch an Olympic sport – it’s free and you don’t need a ticket.

• Marathons and triathlons are also free to watch and take place in Westminster.

• 95% of UK residents will be within

12 The Westminster Reporter

10 miles of the torch relay route.

• Four billion people worldwide are expected to watch the Games.

• Sports equipment will be donated to sports clubs and charities after the Games.

• On event days, 78% of spectators are likely to travel to venues from within London.

Getting around Road changes will be in place during summer 2012 to help keep London moving.

The Olympic Route Network (ORN) These are the roads that athletes and officials will use to travel between their accommodation and venues. Much of the ORN will be open to general traffic but to ensure athletes get to events on time some traffic measures will be put in place, such as Games Lanes for athletes or restrictions to turns and parking.

Pedestrian measures Some changes will be in place to make sure pedestrians can leave events safely.

Road races Westminster will host road events such as the Torch Relay and road races including road cycling, a 140k event that starts and finishes on The Mall.

Some roads will be closed during these events and bus services may also be affected.

Visit www.tfl.gov.uk/2012 for more information.

25th-27th Notting Hill Carnival and August Bank Holiday Weekend

29th August- Paralympic 9th September Games

Big Dance event

012

What’s on in 2012?

M

Hugo Glendinning

Kois Miah

Penny Wai (right)

Penny Wai volunteered at the last Big Dance P eevent in 2010. She says:

“I

’m a keen dancer so it was such a good opportunity for me to convince others to d dance. I have met people from all walks of life.”

Iff you would ld llike ike to volu ik volunteer to help stage some of the most high profile events London has ever staged, contact Volunteer Centre Westminster on 020 7402 8076 to register your interest.

ake the most of the opportunities that the Games bring to London by taking part in one of the many local events in Westminster. With the eyes of the world on London, there are more cultural activities than ever before.

Here are just some of the highlights.

London 2012 Festival Across London 21st June-9th September

West End Live Trafalgar Square 23rd-24th June 2012

Big Dance 2012

Get Set for schools

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ne in eight London school children will receive free tickets to the Olympic and Paralympic Games if their schools join the Get Set Network. Get Set is the London 2012 education programme for 3-19 year olds. The deadline is 16th December so ask your child’s school if they have joined the Network.

Find out more at getset.london2012.com g

Get involved

Across London and the UK 7th-15th July

O

River of Music events

rganise a community event or activity during The Games and you could apply for a grant of up to £2,500 from the Cultural Olympiad micro grants fund.

Grants are available for projects that incorporate the values of the Games. It could be a music festival, art exhibition, a short film or play or anything else that has been inspired by the Games.

Visit www.vitalregeneration.org for more information and to apply.

There’s also help and advice from London 2012’s Local Leaders Scheme, visit www.london2012.com/ get-involved/local-leaders for more advice.

The River Thames 21st-22nd July

London Outdoor Arts Festival Squares and parks 21st July-9th September

Hidden London Grand Union Canal (near Westbourne Park Station) late July-early August

Mayor’s Thames Festival The River Thames 8th-9th September

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Have a merry West E Christmas has arrived in London’s West End and there’s loads to see, do, eat, drink, buyy and enjoy! j y Here’s our top pick of attractions, events, offers and activities.

Covent Garden

Only in Carnaby

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S

ake a trip to Covent Garden for traffic-free shopping, an amazing Christmas food market and a unique nativity scene installed by visual artist Martha Fiennes.

Plus, Covent Garden’s much-loved reindeer petting is back this year in the Covent Garden Piazza, every Saturday from 12 midday-5pm. Head down for a perfect family picture p opportunity. pp

Christmas Film Club C

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he Covent Garden Hotel is now taking reservations for its Christmas film club at luxurious lux restaurant and bar Brasserie Max. Enjoy En a three course dinner or afternoon tea followed fo by the ‘film of the week’ in a private screening sc room for £35 per person. Get in the th festive spirit with It’s A Wonderful Life, showing sh on 10th or 17th December, or watch Bing B Crosby’s romantic musical comedy White W Chri Christmas on 18th December. To book tickets, tic call 020 7806 1007.

Stt Martin’s Courtyard S

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or FREE roast chestnuts and warm Pimm’s whilst listening to beautiful Christmas music, visit St be M Martin’s Courtyard, where there is a series of festive events. Head down se on Thursday 8th or 15th December from 5-7pm for the London fr Community Gospel Choir or on C Saturday 10th December from Sa 2-4pm for ‘Actors Re-Choired’.

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14 The Westminster Reporter

tuck for present ideas? Get inspiration from a FREE copy of the ‘Only in Carnaby’ y’ guide from any Carnaby Street shop or at www.carnaby.co.uk. Featuring gift ideas for or the boys including a limited edition Carnaby Anniversary t-shirt from Liam Gallagher’s her’s label Pretty Green, and for the girls, an amazing Collars and Cuffs dress from Lily Allen and Sarah Owen’s fashion ashion label Lucy In Disguise. For those that have everything, g, there is the Newburgh Quarter’s Lomography hy Photography Workshop voucher.

St Martin’s in the Field

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t Martin’s in the Field comes alive with h carols and festive concerts this winter.

Take your pick from Mini Maestro Musicall Tales where children’s classics Ferdinand the Bull and Babar the Elephant are musically brought to life on 17th and 31stt December December, to the Choir of St Martin-in-the-Fields and popular carols including ‘O come All Ye Faithful’ and ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ on 19th December. Full details can be found www.smitf.org

Get into London Theatre

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nd finally... Treat your friends and family with an exclusive show and activity experience from Get Into London Theatre. Enjoy exclusive Q & As with West End stars, sing and dance with the casts and creative teams from your favourite shows or peek behind the scenes of some of London’s iconic theatres. Tickets are for 1st January-10th February 2012 and are available for just £10-£35 from 6th December.

Visit www.getintolondontheatre.co.uk for the full line-up.

WIN! a Wes

io dit on dc s an *Term

End Christmas!

t End Mini-Break! *

To celebrate brate American an ns ap ply Express® Shop . Go to w k/vip ww.wes West Endd VIP tminster.gov.u Weekend, d, the festive shoppingg extravaganza, New ew W Westt End Company are giving away a fabulous West End Mini-Break for you and a guest, including an overnight stay at London Marriot Hotel Park Lane, including breakfast, as well as a pair of tickets to see The Wizard of Oz, at the London Palladium!* I

To enter the competition email competitions@newwestend.com stating your name and contact details.

The information collected here will be used solely for the purposes of administering the prize draw and will be deleted once the prize draw has been completed.

For further information on how we use and store your data please view our privacy statement online at westendvip.com

Competition closes midnight 18th December 2011.

Regent Street lights R T Christmas season, walk the ‘Mile of Style’ under a canopy of This gglittering lights whilst you seek out that special Christmas gift on London’s famous Regent Street.

F

rom the wide array of flagship stores including Omega, Gant, Ferrari, Banana Republic, to Armani Exchange, Anthropologie, Jaeger, Liberty, Apple and Michael Kors, there’s something for everyone. Once you’ve found that perfect present, you can extend the Christmas cheer in one of the many restaurants and bars on n offer and even enjoy a cocktail with a roof top view of the lights at Aqua..

This year, the world-renowned d lights were switched on by Bill Nighy and Ashley Jensen – both starring in Aardman Animations’’ Arthur Christmas, showing at cinemas nationwide.

We’re giving you London’s West End!

O

n Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December, London’s West End will be given back to shoppers as Oxford Street and Regent Street will be traffic-free enabling Christmas shoppers to enjoy the festive atmosphere and entertainment of a traditional West End Christmas.

What’s more, because Christmas is all about giving, American Express® is offering card ca members double rewards on every purchase made on Oxford Street, Regent pu Street, Old Bond Street and New Bond St Street throughout the weekend.** St **Visit westendvip.com/weekend for full details.

American Express Network The American Express Network connects Cardmembers from different networks with merchants and offers, Visit amexnetwork.co.uk for more information. *New West End Company is the competition promoter.

are currently eight safer schools officers dedicated to schools in Westminster 8 There

Safe Christmas A theft can happen in seconds, but by keeping a watchful eye on your ppossessions this Christmas you could help to protect your valuables frfrom becoming easy pickings for an opportunistic thief.

P

CW Will Davies is the Crime Prevention Advisor for central Westminster and also works with the local business community to advise them on keeping their offices and employees safe.

“Having a handbag or laptop stolen is a very personal thing. They usually contain all the things that matter to you, some of which will have sentimental value or will be very costly to replace.”

Westminster is a safe place, but if you advertise your valuables it makes them all the more appealing. Just by keeping valuables out of sight, in zipped pockets or bags which stay close to you, you can limit your chances of becoming a victim of crime.

“Before you head out ask yourself: ‘what do I actually need to take with me?’ Could you leave your laptop in the office, do you really need to carry your passport, driving licence and your cheque book with you? If you do take valuables out with you, get them property marked by registering serial numbers at www.immobilise.com or using the tracking device which you can install on many modern phones.

“It is all about minimising risk. In the run up to Christmas there are even

“Thefts happen in a matter of seconds so make sure you keep your bag on your lap, not tucked under the table.”

PC Will Davies

more people out and about in Westminster than usual. As people relax there is also a tendency to let your guard down, leaving bags lying at your feet, or phones abandoned on tables whilst you pop to the toilet or nip outside for a cigarette.

“Thefts happen in a matter of seconds so make sure you keep your bag on your lap, not tucked under the table.

“If you’re using an ATM look for anything strange that is attached to the machine, or any markings that may suggest it has been tampered with.

“By being discreet and keeping an eye on your belongings and your surroundings you can do a lot to keep control of a situation. Don’t be tempted to chat on your phone in the street or wander into a poorly lit area on your way home. If you’re on your way out plan how to get there and

how to get home before you go.”

During the festive season officers across Westminster will be out working hard to keep the city safe, preventing thefts from occurring, and arresting those responsible. Please assist them by looking after yourself and your valuables when you are out and about.

Top tips for getting home safely 11. Plan in ad advance dvance how you are going to get home – and stick to it.

2. Discuss your plans with friends – travelling with others is safer than going home alone, and cheaper.

3. Book a cab in advance, or use one of Westminster’s marshalled taxi ranks.

4.Never get in an unlicensed or unmarked mini-cab.

Use a Black Cab or ey licensed mini-cab, the they are much safer.

For information about property marking events in your area, or to speak to an officer about registering your property, contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team at www.met.police.uk/teams/westminster

16 The Westminster Reporter

Get home safely this Christmas It’s the festi festive tive ve sseason, eason and the perfect pe time to get out and about and enjoy the shopping, entertainment, culture, dining and nightlife that’s unique to the heart of London.

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The Westminster Reporter 17

Sunday service is open to children with disabilities from 8-18 years old 8-18 Phab

Supporting children with disabilities

Andie Williams (left) and her so

Phab Club

Education, entertainment, sports and leisure activities are essentiall for f every child, hild and it’s important to make sure that you get the most out of what’s on offer in the city.

I

f your child has a disability, the council and its partners offer a wide range of services and support – for you, your child and the whole family. This includes services known as short break services.

Also sometimes referred to as respite services, these provide a break for carers of children with disabilities so that they can spend time doing other things. Short breaks should also be a fulfilling experience and can include anything from overnight stays away to weekly clubs.

Westminster mother Andie Williams has a 14-year-old son – Tyrell Adewunmi – who has been diagnosed with Autism.

Dr Yusra Esper is Chair of ‘Make it Happen’ – a forum which represents the views of parents and carers of children with disabilities.

Annalisa Saba’s b ’ ddaughter ht Maria, 12, goes to Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee School and attends the Rainbow Community Centre.

T

y son Sammy who is 15 goes to Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee School. The school specifically aims to meet the needs of children and young people with severe and complex learning difficulties and their families. We use the after school club and he also spends time at the Lisson Green Play Centre.

“Meeting similar people has given him a chance to make new friends. I’ve noticed that his confidence has grown over the past year since we started using these services. They also allow me a much needed break.”

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“I

hey visit the Phab Sunday service, which offers a range of services for children with disabilities from 8-18 years old.

“The Phab service on Sundays is the only service in the area that is accessible for my son to attend. Phab is a place where my son can go to and feel accepted for who he is: he is in a safe and supported environment where he can build on his skills. The leadership at the club encourages my son to be independent, learn new skills and become part of a team.

“He is now happy to leave me and go to Phab which gives me a break too.”

t’s reassuring to know that her specific needs are catered for,” says Annalisa.

“The extra support she receives allows me time to concentrate on her siblings for a while. For Maria, it means she is around other children she can communicate with, whereas often in everyday life she struggles to communicate with Annalisa Saba her daughter people. The services provided have enriched her life and will help prepare her for adulthood in simple, practical ways – things that she finds more challenging than other children her age.”

To find out more about these services and the many other services available in Westminster for children with disabilities and their families, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/disabilities and download our full directory of services.

18 The Westminster Reporter

Dr Yusra Es and her son

MAKING WESTMINSTER A PLACE TO BE PROUD OF

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The council picks up 3 million bags of dropped litter every year

The council and its partners work together to keep the streets clean and pleasant.

YOU CAN HELP Don’t drop litter, put your rubbish in bins and help keep the West End wonderful.

on Tyrell

per (left) n Sammy

(right) and Maria

‘Total Eclipse of the Arch’ was created by artists Miguel Romo, Jaime Valtierra and Amos Shein.

Total Eclipse of the Arch!

O Saturday November 19th, over the course of seven hours, and in partnership with Veolia On aand New West End Company, we built a 15 cubic metre model of iconic Marble Arch, using tthe amount of litter dropped in one day on Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street.

T

he result: A ‘total eclipse of the arch’, showing just how much litter is dropped on your streets, s and what a huge undertaking it is for the council c to keep the city clean and tidy.

Clean streets have always been a key focus for the council, c and we will continue to make sure that we fulfil f our responsibilities – cleaning the streets, but also making m it as easy as possible for people not to litter:

• there are 1500 litter bins on Westminster’s streets.

• there are 300 recycling bins on Westminster’s streets.

• we pick up 17,000 tonnes of litter from the streets each year.

• 243 street sweepers walk Westminster’s streets, working day and night to keep them clean and tidy.

84% of you think Westminster looks good as a result of the work we do. But it’s everyone’s responsibility to play their part.

• Residents can take pride in where they live, and help maintain the high standards that the council sets for clean, tidy and safe streets.

• Businesses can work with the council to help keep the streets clean and tidy; disposing of their commercial waste legally, and encouraging staff and customers to do the right thing. The New West End company works to clear Oxford Street of chewing gum – clearing 300,000 sticky lumps every year.

• Visitors can respect the work others do to make this a wonderful place to visit, and treat our city as if it was their own.

Do the right thing. Take responsibility for your litter and your streets. Help keep Westminster clean and tidy.

Visit www.westminster.gov.uk/yourstreets to find out more and see a video of how we eclipsed the arch.

The Westminster Reporter 19

34,000 businesses generate around 2% of the country’s GDP 34,000 Westminster’s

in Westminster have signed for the Young Enterprise scheme 8 8upschools

Supporting local busin At a time of economic uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to help businesses achieve and grow and give that helping hand to small businesses and entrepreneurs.

I

n Westminster we’re supporting businesses in a number of ways, from business information points in our libraries to training programmes and help to access funding opportunities. Our latest and most exciting investment to support local businesses in Westminster is the opening of Hub Westminster; a super studio space open to up to 1,000 start up companies and entrepreneurs.

The new 12,000 sq ft ‘Hub Westminster’ is the largest start up incubation lab in London and is a joint venture between Westminster City Council and Architecture00. We have designed the space to provide all the tools to support a start up’s daily work space needs. By providing affordable membership we hope to

give budding entrepreneurs a real chance to succeed and to help kick start our economy.

The facility opened its doors in October and will be entirely self

Lisa Warner, set up Fink Cards in 2008 and regularly uses Hub Westminster.

“T

he space is amazing, the atmosphere and energy in the hub is so positive, it is a brilliant place to work. The best thing is how the hub provides an environment that encourages conversation, connection and creativity between people and projects.”

Tyler Knight, Co-Founder of mDiagnostica, a new mobile technology healthcare company, is one of the first entrepreneurs to experience Hub Westminster.

“H

ub Westminster is great, it brings together some of London’s brightest and most creative people, and encourages innovation. It’s great eat tthat at tthee council cou c is able to support entrepreneurs through Hub Westminster.”

For more information visit www.hubwestminster.net Lisa Warner 20 2 0 The e We W Westminster stmins stm mins inssttte ter err Reporter e Repor Re p te ter err e

financing to give residents and other small businesses the chance to base themselves in the heart of the country’s capital offering them network events and the best possible chance to succeed.

creative industries eemploy p oy 90,000 peop peoplee 90,000 Westminster’s

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2 3rd February 2012 2011 –2012 November 14th 2012 – 3rd February ary r 2011 14th Novembe – 3rd Febru ber 2011

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15/11/2011

1 munity governance

Creative Westminster

Westminster’s creative industries employ 90,000 people and contribute to the economy and character of areas such as Soho.

W

ith such an important industry playing a key part in Westminster, we need to ensure that it continues to flourish.

The Creative Industries Programme was set up to support businesses in the industry to help develop business skills and accelerate business growth. Training bursaries of up to £1,000 are available and we have also invested in trade trip bursaries to allow local businesses to make important contacts abroad.

For more information visit www.westmi www.westminster.gov.uk/creativeindustries

Free business support

Give G ive a hhelping ellpiing hand to start up businesses

T

he council and Hub Westminster are keen to connect residents who would like to invest in start up businesses with entrepreneurial residents and others who need a helping hand.

If you’d like to find out more, go to www.westminster.gov.uk/ businessmentor

For more information visit www.westminster.gov.uk/ bip

11:06

Do you think you could run your local area?

Westminster City Council has launched a city-wide ‘community governance review’, looking into the creation of new parish and community councils within the city.

W

e want to know what you think – should residents be able to form small parish or community councils to deal with locall issues?

How would you like the council to work with residents to run the city? v is Cllr R o b e r t Da

T

here are now four dedicated business information points (BIP) located in libraries across Westminster providing a free business information service and access to a wide range of high quality business information.

The BIPs are based at Church Street, Pimlico, Paddington and Westminster Reference Library where you can get access to the latest market research, company and product information and the ability to create free mailing lists.

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“This review will bee an opportunity forr all sections of our city to have their say on the running of Westminster.”

Cllr Robert Davis, DL. Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Built Environment

The consultation period runs until 3rd February 2012 and is open to residents and local bodies across Westminster. Find out more and take part at www.westminster.gov.uk/ communitygovernance

The Westminster Reporter 21

Winter activities for children and young people

Take a look at our rou round-up nd-up d off ffree ree re ea and nd n d low lo co cost stt a activities cti tiviiti ities for children and young people to help you stay active, learn new skills and meet new people this winter.

Edutain sport and arts activities When: 13th-17th February, 10am-3pm Age: 8-13 What: Just turn up, register and join in the fun in this action-packed programme of sport, dance and arts activities.

Where: Academy Sport, Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ and Churchill Gardens Youth Club, The Annexe, Churchill Gardens Road, SW1V 3AL Contact: Call 020 7641 2012 Cost: £1 per day Nearest Tube: Royal Oak (Academy Sport)/ Pimlico (Churchill Gardens) Dream Arts When: Saturdays and Sundays, 28th January1st April 2012 Age: 8-19 What: This term we will be working on mini-musicals and you’ll get to perform in the West End. Where: Pimlico School, Lupus St, SW1 (Saturdays) and Cockpit Theatre, Gateforth St, NW8 (Sundays) Contact: Call 020 7266 8262 Cost: £1.50 per day / £3 non members Nearest tube: Pimlico/Marylebone

Fashion and photography workshop When: 17th February Age: 13+ What: Create your very own clothing, props and accessories and learn how to style your outfits with hair and make-up that reflects the style of the 18th century. Finally, photograph these one-off

22 The Westminster Reporter

masterpieces in a professional studio shoot.

Where: The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, W1U 3BN Contact: Call 020 7563 9527 or email booking@wallacecollection.org Cost: £15 Nearest tube: Baker Street/Bond Street

football, basketball, trampolining, archery and fencing. New to the programme in January will be mini-tennis and volleyball.

Climbing wall sessions When: Tuesdays, 4-5.30pm & Saturdays, 9.30-11am (Junior Club, age 8+); Wednesdays, 4-5.30pm (Pebbles, age 4-7) Age: 4+ Where: West 1 Climbing Wall, Seymour Leisure Centre, Seymour Place, W1H 5TJ Contact: Call 0845 363 1177 Cost: £7.70-£12.15 Nearest Tube: Edgware Road, Baker St, Marble Arch

Nearest Tube: Royal Oak

Half term at Academy Sports When: 13th-17th February 2012 Age: 6-13 A range of all day and two-hour drop-in sessions. Activities include football and basketball camps, archery, street dance, parkour and much more.

Where: Academy Sport, Westminster Academy, The Naim Dangoor Centre, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Contact: Call 020 7121 0642 Nearest Tube: Royal Oak Junior Programme at Academy Sport When: Monday-Sunday (term time only) Age: 5-16 What: An extensive kids programme including

Where: Academy Sport, Westminster Academy, The Naim Dangoor Centre, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Contact: Call 020 7121 0642 Cost: Between £2.20 and £3.40 for 1-3hr sessions

Studio workshop: puppets Where: 29th December, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm Age: 5-8 What: Creatures in the Shadows workshop.

Explore what lurks in the dark with artist Sarah Tombs – create your own shadow puppet and tell your own story about what happens next.

Contact: Call 020 7747 2424 or visit www. nationalgallery.org.uk/families Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Charing Cross Kickstart – healthy lifestyle programme When: Week beginning 2nd January 2012 Age: 6-12 What: A 10-week family focused programme for children aged 6-12 years centred on nutrition education, cooking skills and physical activity.

Where: St. Saviour’s Church Hall, SW1V 3QW and The Stowe Centre, W2 5ES Contact: Call 020 7563 6110 Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Pimlico and Royal Oak

Te rm s

WIN!

Chamber Zone Concerts When: 10th December 2011-27th March 2012 Age: 8-25 What: Free tickets for young people aged 8-25 to concerts at Wigmore Hall.

Where: Wigmore Hall, 36 Wigmore Street, W1U 2BP Contact: Call 020 7935 2141 or visit www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/series/ chamber-zone-0 Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Bond Street

Potted Panto When: 18th December 2011-8th January 2012 Age: All What: Potted Panto features eight classic pantomimes in just 80 minutes.

Where: Vaudeville Theatre, 404 Strand, WC2R 0NH Contact: www.pottedpanto.com Cost: £15-£30 Nearest Tube: Covent Garden Bayswater Children’s Centre Where: Bayswater Children’s Centre, St. Mary of the Angels RC School, Shrewsbury Road, W2 5PR Contact: Call 020 7641 1350 Nearest Tube: Westbourne Park/Royal Oak Baby and you When: Every Monday Age: Babies under 18 months and their parents.

What: Drop-in sessions for parents and babies Cost: Free February Half Term Holiday Play Scheme When: 13th-17th February 2012, 8.30am-6pm Age: 3-7 What: Holiday play scheme Cost: £15-£30 per day

an d con ditio ns apply

Family workshops at Somerset House When: Saturdays, 2-3.30pm Age: 6-12 What: Regular free family workshops invite families to be creative and learn together. Explore Somerset House, The Courtauld Gallery, Embankment Galleries and our events through a range of activities from painting and modelmaking to fashion design and animation.

Where: Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA Contact: Call 020 7845 4600 or go to www.somersethouse.org.uk/events/family Cost: Free Nearest Tube: Charing Cross

Tickets to see Horrible Histories live on stage I

LIVE ON STAGE!

We all want too meet people from history.

The trouble is everyone is dead.

Heads you lose

From 14 February 2012

BOOK NOW: 0844 412 4662

GARRICK THEATRE So it’s time www.barmybritain.com to prepare yourselves forr Horrible Histories live on stage with the world premiere of Barmy Britain.

Have you ever wondered why the Romans never won Master Chef? What if a Viking moved in next door? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry?

Will Parliament escape gunpowder Guy? Enrol yourself at Georgian Crime School, dare to dance the Tyburn jig and find out what a baby farmer did.

Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in.

© Sabine Schereck

Win one of three family tickets!

Email reporter@westminster.gov.uk by 27th January to enter.

Barmy Britain will be on stage at Garrick Theatre from 14th February-1st September. Visit www.barmybritain.com for more information

For more information, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/inthecity

Prize must be taken before 1st September 2012. Subject to availability. Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative with be offered.

The Westminster Reporter 23

R

Out and about in Westminster Christmas From Christmas crafts to Charles Dickens, there are plenty of low cost activities to keep you entertained and active through the festive season and into the New Year.

West End VIP weekend When: Sat 10th and Sun 11th Dec What: Traffic-free shopping weekend, traditional West End Christmas theme including a 30 hour Carol-A-Thon, to be launched by 50 carollers called Carol.

Where: Oxford Street & Regent Street.

Contact: www.westendvip.com/weekend

Christmas Carols by Candlelight When: Sat 10th Dec, 7.30pm What: Christmas carols by candlelight with the Vivamus Choir.

Where: St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JH Contact: www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org Cost: £8-28

Westminster Writers’ Group When: Every other Monday, 6.45pm What: A fortnightly writing workshop for budding writers living in and around the Westminster area.

Where: Marylebone Library, Marylebone Rd, NW1 5PS Contact: 020 7641 1300 Cost: Free

Get into London Theatre When: 1st January-10th February 2012 What: Book with Get Into London Theatre and chose from over 50 musicals, plays and other entertainment for just £10, £15, £25 and £35.

Where: Various Contact: www.getintolondontheatre.co.uk or call 0871 230 1548 Cost: £10-£35

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland When: Until Jan 3rd 2012 What: Hyde Park does Christmas with a variety

24 The Westminster Reporter

of rides and attractions, including a Giant Observational Wheel, two circuses and the biggest outdoor rink in the UK. Where: Hyde Park, W2 2UH Contact: www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Cost: Various

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display When: Midnight Sat 31st Dec 2011 What: Ring in the year of the London Olympics and Paralympics in style!

Where: The best views are from Victoria Embankment Contact: www.london.gov.uk/newyearseve Cost: Free London’s New Year’s Day Parade When: 11.45am on 1st January 2012 What: More than 10,000 performers representing 20 countries world-wide will assemble for the 2012 Parade as it weaves its way along the two mile route.

Where: The Parade starts on Piccadilly outside the Ritz Hotel Contact: www.londonparade.co.uk Cost: Free

Charles Dickens: Life and Legacy When: Daily 10am-6pm, Thur & Fri until 9pm. Until 22nd Apr 2012 What: The author of the quintessential Christmas story, A Christmas Carol, is 200 years old. To mark the occasion, the National Portrait Gallery shows a free exhibition, including paintings, photographs, drawings and engravings.

Where: National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place, London, WC2H 0HE Contact: www.npg.org.uk Cost: Free

Recycling O

nce all the festivities are over, don’t forget to recycle your Christmas tree. We’ll be collecting trees for composting between 2nd and 15th January 2012. Visit www.westminster. gov.uk/xmastrees to find your nearest drop off point. And remember to recycle all your Christmas cards and packaging too. To find out how visit www.westminster.gov.uk/recycling You can also save money this Christmas by using your leftover food.

For tantalising Christmas recipes, food storage tips and more visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Why not learn a new skill for the new year?

O

ur libraries are offering online language courses. With 10 languages to choose from and a variety of levels there is something for everyone, so you can polish up a language you know or try something completely new.

And at only £5 for a 12-week course they are amazing value. Because they are online, you can take part in any library, or from home, and can learn at a time and pace that suits you.

Courses are already running and you can sign up at any time. To find out more visit www.westminster.gov. uk/learnalanguage

Ed Moses

New sports N t Ambassador A

Saman Jafar

Changing lives through sport

O

WIN am prizes azing inc tickets luding LONDO to the OLYMP N 2012 IC GAME S

KNOW A SPORTS PERSON OR CLUB THAT DESERVES TO BE RECOGNISED?

Nominate them in the ActiveWestminster Awards 2011

Closing date 20th September

They could win equipment and other prizes and you will be entered into a prize draw to win GLL gym membership.

Visit westminster.gov.uk/a ctiveawards to find out more and nominate.

Winners of this year’s ActiveWestminster awards will receive tickets to the London 2012 Games in recognition of their outstanding efforts to improve lives and communities through sport and physical activity.

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S

aman Jafar is the winner of the Active Volunteer award. Living in a hostel aged 16, Saman wanted to do something positive with his time and give something back to his community.

He says: “When I got placed in a hostel, I struggled. I couldn’t get a job and had a lot of free time.”

He decided to take action and sign up to the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which led to a four-day expedition in the Peak District. Saman went on to pass his FA Level 1 coaching award which led to a volunteering role at community football club Kyu-Yo-Bu-Shin where he coaches young people aged 8-17. Esther Lumby

“Saman is a great role model because of his dedication and his ability to coach young people of all ages.”

Esther Lumby on award winner Saman Jafar

from Volunteer Centre Westminster, says: “Saman is a great role model because of his dedication and his ability to coach young people of all ages.”

Saman is now studying engineering and planning a fundraising campaign for a Raleigh International expedition to Costa Rica. He has also joined Westminster’s youth outh council and youth forum.

To find out more about all of this year’s winners visit www.westminster.gov.uk/activeawards

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Friday 18th FridNovemb ay 18th Nov er ember Lord’s Cricket Lord’s Ground Cricket Ground

Edwin Moses is Managed by Siu-Anne Gill, 11th Hour Global Management.

2011

lympic Gold Medalist, Ed Moses, is the new ActiveWestminster Legacy Ambassador. He will be inspiring Westminster school children to take part in sport in a series of workshops in the run-up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

FFamily history

T

he council’s Westminster Archives team have been working with leading genealogy website www.findmypast. co.uk to digitise several million parish records from across the city. The first records will be online this year, with the whole project being completed by March 2012. The original images of the registers will be online and you will be able to search to find your ancestors or other Westminster residents.

The service will be free to access from Westminster Archives, and Westminster libraries, with a paid service for home users.

Six-week family history courses will be running in Pimlico, Paddington and St. John’s Wood Libraries in January.

Visit www.westminster.gov.uk/ familyhistory for more information and start dates.

The Westminster Reporter 25 Active westminster Active westminster programme_2011_005.in programme_ dd 1 2011_005.in

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Your magazine to find out more about children’s and young people’s services

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Leave an Olympic Legacy

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he Games are on their way to the UK, which will probably happen o only once in your lif lifetime! You can m make the most of it b by taking part in so some of Westminster’s le legacy projects.

Experience the b buzz of competing in a sporting event by taking part in the annual Games-inspired school sports competition. Events include swimming galas and the Mini Olympics. Pupils should speak to their PE teacher to find out if and how they can take part.

Visit our new Olympic-inspired facilities, including one of London’s only urban beach volleyball courts at Academy Sport, which uses the high quality sand from the recent Olympic test event at Horse Guard’s Parade.

PLUS All young people aged eight to 19 can take part in FREE sporting activities from football and boxing to street dance and parkour, through the Neighbourhood Sports programme..

Do you needd support or advice?

Issue 13, Autumn

/Winter 2011

A great place to grow up!

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-18 year olds can an now n w get direct support if they have experienced crime, bullying or domestic abuse. The service is run by Victim Support and offers direct emotional support and practical help to victims of crime aged 13-18 years and indirect support to victims under the age of 13 via parents or carers.

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You can refer yourself or your child to the service by calling 0207 828 4142 or emailing yvs.westminster@vslondon. org. Youth Workers, Teachers, Safer Schools Officers and Social Workers o e s can caaan also a so refer e e you. you ou.

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26 The Westminster Reporter ActiveWestminster_OCT11_a

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f you want to help your child improve their reading or develop a love of books, reading together at home is a great place to start, at any age. But if you’re not sure where to start, or need a bit of extra confidence, your library is here to help. We can help you choose the right books, and we also run weekly story-times. Join in or ask staff for tips on keeping children entertained whe when reading aloud.

find the strength

Have you been a victim Have you been a me? victim or witness of crime? or witness of crime? of crime? or witness Did you know that Victim Have you been a victim Support in Did Support you know Support in that Victim Westmin sterin has a dedicated Young Did you know that Victim Westminster VictimsYoung d Younghas a dedicated project?

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You can find out more about all the activities available by picking up the latest ActiveWestminster Guide at your local leisure centre. e.

You can also view it online at westminster.gov.uk/active

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Are you ok?

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Reading with your child

18/10/2011 17:46

Subscribe to Children First Too receive a FFREE REEE co RE copy py ooff C Children hildren First magazine three times per year, Fi direct to your door, and find out about activities, offers, services and news for children and families in the city, simply email ‘Subscribe’ plus your name and address, to childrenfirst@westminster.gov.uk

Westminster Car Club cars live in your area PAY-AS-YOU-GO driving ACCESS to over 200 cars in Westminster, 1,700 in London and 9,000 worldwide RESERVE, UNLOCK AND DRIVE any vehicle 24/7/365 FREE parking in the City of Westminster * FREE fuel and mileage allowance** per day Join at westminster.gov.uk/carclub tminster.go r v.u v k/ k carclub and quote ‘WINTERREPORT’ to get

£25 FREE driving drivin

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Sign up by 31 Decemberr ffor or your chance cha to win a weekend’s free driving!

You need to be 19+ and meet safe driver standards to join. First year joining fee is £25. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion Westminster Reporter 27 and expires 31/03/2012. *Free parking subject to minimum parking charge and limited to 1 hour per stay. **See website for detailsThe of mileage allowance.

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