YourWestminster Issue 13

YOUR WESTMINSTER The Westminster City Council Magazine

FREE

Issue 13

Summer 2026

Putting the brakes on dockless BIKE dumpers your budget choices Free Summer Fun meet your new councillors

Inside Out is back

A little effort, a lot of good Recycling food waste helps to create energy to power homes and businesses across the UK, including Westminster.

Find out more at: www.westminster.gov.uk/ food-waste-recycling 020 7641 2000 foodwaste@westminster.gov.uk

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HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR COUNCIL TEAMS

CONTENTS

YourWestminster is published by Westminster City Council Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP. Printed and distributed by Citipost Mail Unit 3, Swanwick Court, Swanwick, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 7AS, UK Printed on FSC® certified material.

For more information on recycling call the Environmental Action Line 020 7641 2000 If you would prefer not to receive future copies of YourWestminster please email yourwestminster@westminster.gov. uk or call 020 7641 6000 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm or write to us at the address below.

For advertising, please contact ppresley@westminster.gov.uk Westminster City Council does not endorse any product or service marked as an advertisement in this publication.

YourWestminster is delivered to homes throughout Westminster. Also available from libraries and leisure centres.

If you encounter delivery problems, please call 020 7641 6000.

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

To contact us on any of the content in this issue, you can email yourwestminster@westminster.gov.uk call 020 7641 1386, or write to: YourWestminster Westminster City Council 17th Floor, Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP

4–5 YOUR NEWS

Meet the new Leader of the Council

6–7 Your New Councillors

Meet your new councillors for your ward, plus the new Cabinet Members

8–9 Clean City, Safe Streets, Real ACTION!

What we’re doing to help improve your communities

10 Budget

An update on our budget and how to share your views

11 SEYMOUR CENTRE

Making improvements at the historic leisure centre

12–13 Inside Out

Our free summer festival is back

14–15 Discover Westminster

Lights, Camera, Action! Can you name these films from their iconic locations?

16 a summer to remember

Our free holiday summer programme for children and young people

17 Notting Hill Carnival

Who’s ready for the 60th year of Notting Hill Carnival?

18–19 Discover More on Your Doorstep

How to make the most of your city for less

20-21 stay active

The ActiveWestminster card makes fitness easy

22 support services for you Westminster City Council’s email newsletters are a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest news, offers and events. For more information about the range of newsletters visit westminster.gov.uk/newsletters

Worried about youth violence? Find support near you

23 Council services

How to get in touch with your council teams

Follow us on social media: @CityWestminster @CityWestminster CityWestminster @CityWestminster 3

leader’s column

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elcome to this edition of YourWestminster, and my first as Leader of the Council. As a new administration, we have big plans to create a city that works for all, promoting economic growth by growing Westminster, all underpinned by a relentless drive to provide value for money – and this magazine is a good guide to what we’ve been doing in our first 100 days in office. Our mission is simple – safe streets, a clean city and real action.

Have a look at page 8 and you can see what that means. We’re already taking tougher enforcement action against the clutter of dockless bikes on Westminster pavements, and we are calling a major summit of the main bike operators. We’ve been on the streets pulling over noisy and overpriced pedicabs which prey on tourists, and our trading standards teams are ramping up raids to stop fake goods being sold on our streets. We have seized thousands of pounds of fake brands in recent days.

Selfish behaviour by people is a major headache for residents so I have met Airbnb to demand action on the abuse of this system. This comes following a new data-sharing agreement between the Cabinet Office and Airbnb to identify people illegally subletting social housing, so homes can be returned to families who need them. This is an important first step in taking action on social housing abuse, but other short-term let platforms must follow. Westminster residents deserve to enjoy their properties in peace.

Across the board, it’s a strong start, but there are challenges ahead – the chief one of which is the Budget. Changes to Government funding mean we face losing £100m over four years, reducing the funding we receive from £219M to £119m. We therefore need to make some hard choices about the services we deliver, and we want to hear your views (see page 10).

Challenging times, but I have a great team in place to deliver the action residents want – see the list of Cabinet Members on page 7. For the first time, Westminster City Council has a Cabinet Member for Enforcement, Caroline Sargent whose job is to lead the charge on anti-social behaviour.

On a lighter note, this edition is packed with lowcost ways to enjoy our city over the summer – see the features on Inside Out and What’s On in Westminster. I hope you enjoy our city over the summer, and I will be back in the autumn with an update.

Leader of the Council Cllr Paul Swaddle OBE

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news Targeting Anti-Social Street Racing

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e have secured a High Court injunction to tackle anti-social driving and illegal street racing across the city.

The ruling bans drivers from racing, performing dangerous stunts such as burnouts and doughnuts, and organising or promoting car meets in hotspot areas including Knightsbridge, Belgravia, St James’s, Hyde Park, and the West End. Anyone who breaches the injunction could face significant fines, arrest, or the seizure of assets.

The move follows years of disruption caused by anti-social driving, with residents and businesses reporting excessive noise, dangerous driving and late-night gatherings involving modified vehicles. Westminster has already expanded enforcement measures, including Public Space Protection Orders, noise cameras and joint operations with the Metropolitan Police and neighbouring councils.

The injunction represents a major step in Westminster’s efforts to make streets safer, reduce noise nuisance and improve quality of life for residents, visitors, and businesses across central London.

Report anti-social behaviour using our Report It tool: www.westminster.gov.uk/report-it

Cracking down on short-term letting

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e are working with the Cabinet Office and Airbnb to tackle illegal subletting and return social homes to the people who need them most.

The new data-sharing agreement allows councils to identify social housing properties being listed as short-term lets, helping to root out properties being exploited and free up homes for families on waiting lists.

Airbnb is the first platform to help tackle this industry-wide issue. The agreement allows local councils to check social housing records against Airbnb listings, identifying properties being exploited by fraudsters and allowing these properties to be returned to families in genuine need.

Early results have identified around 470 potential cases across participating councils, including in central London, with offenders facing eviction, fines and even imprisonment.

Find out more:

No Half-Baked Meet Standards Here our

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opular bakery chain Ole & Steen has been ordered to pay more than £34,000 after we uncovered serious food hygiene failings at its flagship Haymarket branch.

The prosecution followed a council investigation which found evidence of significant mouse activity throughout food preparation and storage areas, including fresh droppings in multiple locations. Environmental health officers also identified poor hygiene practices that presented a risk of food contamination.

The investigation revealed that the business had been made aware of pest issues by its own pest control contractor before the council inspection but failed to take effective action. At Westminster Magistrates’ Court, Ole & Steen pleaded guilty to food hygiene offences and was fined £26,000. Combined with costs, the total financial penalty amounted to £34,847.

Contact the Health and Safety team: healthandsafety@ westminster.gov.uk 020 7641 6000

www.westminster.gov.uk/ news

Your Budget Choices

The funding we receive from Government to deliver local services has been significantly cut from £219m to £119m over the next four years. Read the latest on page 10 about the challenge ahead and tell us what services matter to you.

new Lord Mayor

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estminster has a new Lord Mayor.

Councillor Karen Scarborough was elected as the Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Westminster at Full Council in May. A Marylebone councillor since 2014, the Lord Mayor has spent many years championing local communities, supporting young people and working with charities across Westminster. During her mayoral year, she will focus on improving access to culture for children and young people, helping more young residents discover the arts and explore careers in the cultural sector.

The Lord Mayor’s chosen charities for the year are the Young Westminster Foundation and The Passage, reflecting her longstanding commitment to supporting young people and tackling homelessness.

We wish Councillor Scarborough every success in her year as Lord Mayor.

Visit www.westminster. gov.uk/lord-mayorwestminster

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Meet YOUR Your COUNCILLORS Councillors MEET Bayswater

Abbey Road Cllr Festus Akinbusoye

Cllr Hannah Galley

Cllr Caroline Sargent

Harrow Road

Cllr Concia Albert

Cllr Regan Hook

Cllr Ellie Ormsby

Cllr Rhys Thomas

Aryzmanow

Cllr Ian Rowley

Cllr Philip

Stephenson

-Oliver

Cllr Cara Sanquest

Cllr Karen Scarborough

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Cllr Ben Sewell

Chowdhury

Cllr Greg Ero

Cllr Elliot Keck

Cllr Melvyn Caplan

Cllr Lorraine Dean

Cllr Mohamed Elmi

Cllr Jim Glen

Cllr Hamza Taouzzale

Cllr Ralu Oteh-Osoka

Cllr Robert Rigby

Cllr Louise Shaw

Cllr Elizabeth Amos

Cllr Tim Barnes

Cllr Aziz Toki

Cllr Tony Devenish

Cllr Elizabeth Hitchcock

Cllr Rachael Robathan

Cllr Geoff

Cllr Nafsika

Barraclough Butler-Thalassis

Cllr Iman Less

Pimlico South Cllr Ed Pitt Ford

Cllr Liza Begum

Cllr Robert Eagleton

Cllr Jason Williams

St James's Cllr Paul Swaddle

West End Cllr Selina Short

Cllr Fiona Parker

Maida Vale

Regent's Park

Vincent Square Cllr David Harvey

Cllr Md Shamsed

Cllr Aicha Less

Knightsbridge and Belgravia

Pimlico North

Queen's Park Cllr Patricia McAllister

Cllr Mark Tozer

Little Venice

Marylebone Cllr Barbara

Cllr Christabel Flight

Hyde Park

Lancaster Gate Cllr Connor Jones

Cllr Maggie Carman

Church Street

Cllr San Abishev

Cllr Tim Mitchell

Cllr Mark Shearer

Westbourne Cllr Paul Fisher

Cllr David Boothroyd

Cllr Adam Hug

Cllr Angela Piddock

Regent’s Park

Abbey Road

Queen’s Park Maida Vale Harrow Road

Following the local elections Little Venice Church Street Westbourne on 7 May, here are the councillors elected to each Bayswater ward. The City of Westminster Lancaster is divided into 18 wards and each Gate ward has three councillors.

For contact details for your councillors visit: westminster.gov.uk/about-council/ democracy For general enquiries about the council: westminster.gov.uk 020 7641 6000

Marylebone West End

Hyde Park

Knightsbridge & Belgravia

St James’s

Pimlico North

Vincent Square

Pimlico South

Leader and Cabinet Members Leader of the Council Cllr Paul Swaddle OBE Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement Cllr Caroline Sargent Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth and Planning Cllr Tim Barnes Cabinet Member for Value for Money and Finance Cllr Paul Fisher Cabinet Member for Adults and Health Cllr Lorraine Dean Cabinet Member for Children and Education Cllr Hannah Galley Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration Cllr David Harvey Cabinet Member for City Management Cllr Tim Mitchell Cabinet Member for Resident Services and Civic Pride Cllr Robert Rigby Cabinet Member for Innovation Cllr Mark Shearer

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Y T I C N A E L C O

n a bustling Soho morning, Westminster’s graffiti removal team were out in force. This time joined by new cabinet member for City Management, Councillor Tim Mitchell, who rolls up his sleeves and gets to grips with a pressure washer.

Cllr Mitchell said: “We’re taking a zero-tolerance approach to graffiti. Working with TfL, Network Rail, and others, we will make sure our housing estates, main roads, railway lines, canals, and busiest areas of the city are cleaned up as quickly as possible.”

We’re also reminding business owners in the city that they too

have a responsibility to keep their premises clean of graffiti.

In addition to graffiti removal, the council is prioritising enforcement against fly-tipping and littering, targeting resources at known hotspots for dumped rubbish. The council’s network of CCTV cameras will be deployed to catch fly-tippers in the act, and even name and shame the worst offenders in public.

Alongside tackling graffiti and flytipping the council is improving frontline waste collection services, including recycling services for flats and mansion blocks, helping residents do their bit for a cleaner, greener Westminster.

“The cleanliness of the city impacts how people feel about it.

We want residents and visitors to feel safe and at home in Westminster, not be subjected to piles of dumped rubbish or unsightly graffiti. A clean city is one of which we can all be proud.”

Cllr Tim Mitchell 8

Before

After

S T E E R T S E F A S H

idden away in a South London lock-up is a room packed floor-to-ceiling with counterfeit goods seized by our Trading Standards team.

From fake cigarettes to knockoff designer brands, it’s become quite the collection – and it’s getting bigger. Thanks to some recent enforcement work by our officers, the shelves have been filling up fast with counterfeit goods taken off our streets.

At just one shop in Piccadilly, council officers recovered fake brands including North Face, Stone Island, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Canada Goose and Miu Miu. On another operation, the team picked up more than £5,000 of counterfeit items – including single use vapes, tobacco, Labubu dolls and squishies, the toy craze of the moment.

An early priority for the council has been tackling the deluge of dockless bikes on our streets, and we have now begun using existing highway powers to seize dockless bikes that block pavements, crossings and pedestrian access routes across the capital’s busiest borough.

Trained City Inspectors are now removing bikes left by operators Lime, Forest, VOI and Bolt where they create a danger or significant obstruction on the highway, including bikes blocking dropped kerbs, tactile paving, bus stops, cycle lanes, school entrances, access ramps or narrow footways.

Seized bikes will be transported to a secure council storage facility and operators will be required to pay removal and storage costs before bikes are returned.

We have doubled enforcement rates and collections. At the time of going to press, City Inspectors have issued more than 3,700 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) to operators under the Highways Act 1980 and have seized more than 230 bikes, recovering over £180,000 for the council. The new seizure powers allow officers to act immediately where a bike poses a risk to highway users rather than waiting for operators to remove it themselves.

L A RE N O I T C A

Spot it? Report it.

Seen a dockless bike blocking the pavement?

Noticed fly-tipping, graffiti, or another issue in your area? Help us keep Westminster clean, safe, and accessible by reporting it. www.westminster.gov.uk/report-it 020 7641 6000

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Your Budget CHOICES

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he Government has significantly cut funding to Westminster, by just under half (46%) from £219 million to £119 million over the next four years.

That will mean some hard choices around the services we provide to residents. The scale of the savings mean we are going to ask all our residents a simple question – what savings do you want us to make and are you prepared to pay more council tax to keep them going?

The council is in this position because the Government’s new ‘fairer funding’ formula is moving money away from central London authorities to other areas of the country. We have consistently argued the Government’s calculations overlook high rates of poverty and social challenge in the city – as well as not taking into account the pressures put on local services through one million visitors to the city each day.

increase council tax by 75% to 100% to make up for lost funding.

Cllr Paul Fisher, Cabinet Member for Value for Money and Finance, believes Westminster has been placed in an impossible position.

“The reality is there is no easy option here. We are effectively being forced into making huge savings,” said Cllr Fisher.

All Westminster residents will be asked their views on potential savings in an engagement exercise which begins this summer – by email and face-to-face sessions.

The results of that will influence what council tax rate is introduced in April 2027 – so it’s important you take part.

Sign up for updates, information on events and on how you can get involved: www.westminster.gov.uk/ budget-choices

However, the Government now expects the council to raise council tax beyond the current 4.99% ceiling next year, effectively signalling it wants the council to

Tell us your priorities by scanning the code and completing the survey. Paper copies of the survey can be requested by contacting us on the details below: www.westminster.gov.uk/budget-choices 020 7641 6000 budgetchoices@westminster.gov.uk

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“This financial climate is unprecedented and presents us with stark choices. We now need to ask our residents the straight question – what do you want us to protect?”

Cllr Paul Fisher

Exciting progress at the Seymour Centre

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mprovements at the Seymour Centre are making great progress, with the refurbished centre set to reopen in spring 2027.

The plans will provide new and improved facilities including an open plan gym, swimming pool, contemporary library, café, children’s soft play area and climbing wall.

Solar panels, insulation, heat pumps and modern lighting are also being installed to ensure the Grade II building is energy efficient. The sustainability improvements are funded by the Westminster Green Investment scheme, which helps to deliver green upgrades across the city.

The council has worked closely with its construction partner, Willmott Dixon, to make sure the project creates interesting opportunities for the community as part of its ‘social value’ contributions. Arif was a local resident who took on a role working with Willmott Dixon on another Westminster project on Harrow Road five years ago. He was excited to get the chance to work on the Seymour Centre project.

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“Local people who live around here, they ask me what’s it going to look like – they can’t wait to use the library, gym, spa and everything else. It’s going to be beautiful. this lovely building is going to look so nice!”

Conveyancing Contentious Probate Court of Protection In-house Panel Deputy Power of Attorney Property Transfers Lease Extensions Commercial Leases Welfare Benefits Wills & Probate Housing 11

Free summer fun for everyone

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his summer, Inside Out returns to Westminster – bringing fresh energy, creativity and real buzz to our streets, squares and open spaces.

Back bigger and better, this much-loved free festival is set to transform everyday places into vibrant destinations, packed with live performances, street experiences and hands-on workshops for all ages. Whether you’re stopping by for a moment or planning a full day out, Inside Out offers something new to discover around every corner.

As you move through the city, familiar spots will come alive in unexpected ways – from popup performances to interactive moments that invite you to get involved. It’s all about making the most of Westminster this summer, supporting culture in the heart of our communities and creating more opportunities for residents and families to take part in something special, right on their doorstep.

This year’s programme puts a strong spotlight on local talent, celebrating the artists, performers and community organisations that make Westminster such a dynamic and inspiring place.

It’s a chance to experience the creativity and diversity that already exists across the borough – and to see it thrive in new and exciting ways.

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Whether you’re enjoying free family activities, taking a well-earned break during your day, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Inside Out brings people together and adds something extra to Westminster this summer.

Step outside, explore what’s happening near you, and be part of it.

Visit our website to find out what events are happening near you.

Check out the full programme: westminster.gov.uk/ inside-out

Regent’s Park Music Festival Every weekend at Regent’s Park until 20 September Free summer music returns to Regent’s Park as the Regent’s Park Music Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary. From 21 June to 20 September, enjoy live performances every weekend and Bank Holiday Monday across two bandstands, featuring everything from jazz and brass to choirs and community groups. No booking needed - just bring a picnic, find a spot, and enjoy the music. regentsparkmusicfestival.org.uk 07776 238 936 info@regentsparkmusicfestival.org.uk

St Martin-in-the-Fields Courtyard Lost Oasis ‘Live from 5’ Free August Music Festival Celebrate the spirit of summer with free live music at Lost Oasis in St Martin’s Courtyard Tuesday to Sunday throughout August. Come for the live bands, cold drinks and great atmosphere. You can find us on Trafalgar Square behind St Martin-in-the-Fields church.

Entry to the Courtyard is entirely free. www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/whats-on/lost-oasis/ 020 7766 1100 info@smitf.org

Fitzrovia Fête Join us on Saturday 9 August, from 1pm to 5pm, for a free community celebration on Foley Street! Enjoy live performances, free activities, crafts, local stalls, food and family-friendly fun in a safe, traffic-free space. In partnership with UCL’s bicentenary celebrations. fitzroviacommunitycentre.org 020 7580 8680 info@fitzroviacommunitycentre.org

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discover westminster

lights, camera, westmi W

estminster’s streets have doubled as apocalyptic wastelands, royal residences and blockbuster backdrops for decades.

While visitors flock to the obvious landmarks, some of Westminster’s most fascinating film locations are hiding in plain sight.

Paddington 2 (2017)

Paddington (2014) Paddington Station The station becomes the emotional landing point of both the first and second film, where Paddington first arrives in London and everything feels huge, unfamiliar, and a bit magical. The towering iron-and-glass roof is key to the scene – it makes him feel small in a city that suddenly feels very big, which is exactly the point of his story.

Little Venice The arrival scene Many visitors never discover this was filmed very early in the peaceful canal network tucked morning and carefully staged so behind Paddington. Its colourful narrowboats and waterside walkways real commuters could still pass feature in the world of Paddington, through the station shortly after. providing a side of Westminster that feels a million miles away from Parliament and Buckingham Palace.

Fun fact:

Sherlock Holmes (2009) Baker Street Station Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes reimagines Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective in a more kinetic, stylised Victorian London.

Baker Street station serves as a symbolic anchor point for Holmes’ world – a gateway between modern London infrastructure and the mythologised version of 19th-century London the film constructs.

Fun fact: The character of Sherlock Holmes has been adapted in over a hundred film and TV versions, making Baker Street one of the most repeatedly reinterpreted fictional-real crossover locations in cinema.

Fun fact: The junction of the Regent’s Canal and Grand Union Canal offers some of the most photogenic waterside views in central London.

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Help us discover Westminster

inster!

The Dark Knight (2008) Horse Guards Parade Christopher Nolan used central London locations as inspiration for Gotham’s political core, with Horse Guards Parade and surrounding Whitehall areas standing in for high-security government spaces. The vast open courtyard and imposing Horse Guards buildings give it that authoritarian ‘Gotham administration’ feel.

Fun fact: Nolan deliberately used real institutional locations across London instead of building sets, reinforcing his approach of grounding Gotham in recognisable urban realism rather than fantasy design.

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Skyfall (2012) Charing Cross Station (Disused Jubilee Platforms) In Skyfall, the disused Jubilee Line platforms beneath Charing Cross are used to create one of the film’s most atmospheric underground sequences. These abandoned platforms provide a rare cinematic space: a fully constructed but unused part of the Underground, frozen in time.

Because the space is no longer in public use, it carries a natural sense of isolation that cannot be easily replicated on a set.

Fun fact: The platforms were built in the 1970s but closed in the 1990s, leaving them intact – which is why filmmakers often describe them as one of London’s most valuable “ready-made sets.”

Got a favourite café, a peaceful green space you’d love to share, or a secret spot that always puts a smile on your face?

We want to hear about the places that make your corner of Westminster special. Whether it’s somewhere you visit every week or a tucked away gem only locals know about, your recommendations help celebrate everything that makes the city feel like home. yourwestminster@ westminster.gov.uk or write to the address on page three, and your hidden gem could feature in a future issue – inspiring others to explore Westminster in a new way.

28 Days Later (2002) Westminster Bridge One of the most iconic scenes in British cinema begins here. After waking from a coma, Jim (played

by Cillian Murphy) walks across a completely deserted Westminster Bridge, discovering a London emptied by the Rage virus. The production famously filmed at dawn, briefly closing sections of central London to create the eerie illusion of an abandoned city.

Fun fact: Stand on the eastern side of the bridge facing Parliament for almost the exact viewpoint used in the film.

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Make This Summer One to

Remember Looking for ways to keep the kids busy, active, and smiling this summer?

We’ve got just the thing…

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he Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme is back, bringing a packed programme of free, exciting activities for children and young people across Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea.

Designed to turn the school holidays into a time of discovery, creativity and fun, the programme is a brilliant way to keep young people active, engaged and inspired all summer long. From highenergy outdoor adventures to hands-on creative sessions, there is something to spark every interest. Children can try new experiences they may

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never have had the chance to before, whether that is exploring the outdoors, taking on physical challenges or getting involved in arts, culture and performance.

Each session is carefully designed to be both fun and rewarding, giving children the opportunity to make new friends and enjoy a sense of achievement, all in a safe and supportive environment. To keep energy levels high, every day also includes a healthy, nutritious meal, ensuring children are well fuelled for everything the day has in store.

Open to children aged 4 to 16, the programme is free for children from families who qualify for Free School Meals, along with some additional spaces for families who may benefit from extra support. For parents/ carers, it offers reassurance that their children are having fun, staying

FREE FOR FAMILIES ELIGIBLE FOR FREE SCHOOL MEALS active and making the most of their summer, while enjoying structured activities that support their wellbeing and development.

With so much on offer throughout the holidays, the HAF Programme is the perfect way to swap long days at home for new adventures, new friendships and unforgettable experiences.

Visit the website to find out what is happening around your local area: ourcity.org.uk/haf-programme 07971 625 922 HAF@westminster.gov.uk

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ne of the biggest and most exciting weekends of the year is just around the corner – Notting Hill Carnival returns this August Bank Holiday, and Westminster is getting ready to celebrate.

A proud tradition since 1966, Carnival brings the streets to life with Caribbean music, dance, incredible food and vibrant colour, welcoming residents and visitors from across London and beyond.

As the countdown begins, the buzz is already building. Mas bands are putting the finishing touches on their costumes, sound systems are lining up their playlists, and local performers and businesses are preparing for two days of celebration. For many of our residents and traders, this weekend is not only a cultural highlight but an important moment to come together, connect and thrive.

If you’re heading along, be sure to support the local businesses, food stalls and traders who help make Carnival so special.

Whether you’re grabbing something to eat, picking up handmade goods or stopping in at nearby shops, your support helps keep this much-loved tradition going.

Whether it’s your first Carnival or a yearly favourite, it’s always an unforgettable celebration of culture, community and creativity right on our doorstep.

More info on routes, timings and tips will be shared soon, we can’t wait to see you there.

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Keep up to date www.westminster.gov.uk/ notting-hill-carnival 020 7641 2390 office@nhcarnival.org

Heading to Carnival? Tag us in your photos and videos and collaborate with us on socials - we’d love to share your moments. @CityWestminster CityWestminster @CityWestminster

August 30-31 17

what’s on

Every Wednesday Westminster Music Library WC2H 7HP Westminster Music Library presents free live music every Wednesday at lunchtime.

Concerts include instrumental and voice recitals, chamber music, and jazz sessions.

The concert series, featuring some of London’s most promising musicians, is perfect for all ages and experience levels.

Stop by on your lunch break or bring your friends and family to experience the joy of live music in a relaxed atmosphere. No booking is required.

FREE

020 7641 6200 www.westminster.gov.uk/event/lunchtime-concertswestminster-music-library-person Friday 18 September Grand Junction, W2 5TF An inclusive club night for learning disabled adults, neurodiverse people and friends. The event will feature DJs playing great music, lots of dancing and a chill-out zone. Food and drinks will be available to buy. This is an 18 plus event. This is a ticketed event: £7 in advance and £10 on the door (support staff go free). www.grandjunction.org.uk/ events/vip-very-inclusiveparties-club-nights-5/ 020 7266 8258 info@grandjunction.org.uk

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Homework Club

Westminster Mile Saturday 26 September Pall Mall This September, the Vitality Westminster Mile returns, bringing together runners, walkers, families, schools and local communities for a day of energy, achievement, and unforgettable Westminster spirit.

Whether you are chasing a personal best, tackling your first event, or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, there’s a place for you at the start line. www.active.westminster.gov. uk/one-mile-endless-smilesare-you-in-join-the-vitalitymile-2026/ 020 7641 6000 active@westminster.gov.uk

Every Friday Church Street Library NW8 8EU Church Street Library is hosting Homework Club every week during term time for primary school children. There will be dedicated help from friendly and helpful volunteers. We offer a wide range of books, printing and photocopying resources and access to computers. www.westminster.gov.uk/ event/homework-clubchurch-street-library 020 7641 5490

Hosting a community event in Westminster?

Are you a local business with an offer to share with our readers?

Send the details to the address on page 3 or to yourwestminster@ westminster.gov.uk and we’ll look to include you on our website and in a future edition of this magazine!

DISCOVER MORE ON YOUR DOORSTEP 25% Off Private Yoga 15% off & Sound Healing at 21Soho Bar Yogarise Queen’s Park, 27 Beethoven Street, W10 4GL Westminster City Save members can enjoy 25% off private and one-to-one yoga and sound healing sessions with Seola Wellness at Yogarise Queen’s Park, reducing the price from £85 to £64 per hour. Plus, your first group yoga class is completely free. Seola Wellness offers inclusive, welcoming wellbeing experiences designed to support rest, stress relief and mental health. www.westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/seolawellness-25-private-yogasound-healing 07899 170 922 hello@seolawellness.com

It only takes a few minutes.

3-5 Sutton Row W1D 4NR A lively Soho bar and entertainment space offering cocktails, live shows, and a buzzing night out in the heart of the West End. Westminster City Save cardholders get 15% off all bar purchases when attending any event at 21Soho. Simply show your City Save card at the bar to claim. www.westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/1521soho-bar 020 3667 3334 hello@21-soho.com

Two for one entry at the Florence Nightingale Museum

2 Lambeth Palace Road SE1 7EP The Florence Nightingale Museum celebrates the life and work of the best-known figure in nursing history. It houses one of the largest collections of objects relating to ‘the Lady with the Lamp’ herself.

Explore our permanent exhibition, along with two rotating temporary exhibitions. With family-trails and a variety of events during normal opening hours included – it is the perfect day out for anyone. www.westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/ two-one-entry-florencenightingale-museum 020 7188 4400 info@florence-nightingale.co.uk

Want to grow your business and connect with local residents? Join www.westminster.gov.uk/city-save the Westminster City Save scheme! Whether you run a café, shop, gym, theatre, or service, joining is quick, easy, and completely free. citysave@westminster.gov.uk Let your offers reach the people who matter most.

020 7641 6000 19

Keep Active

Why not try Taking the stairs instead of the escalator

for a

Healthy Heart S

taying Active is one of the best things you can do for your heart and overall wellbeing.

Heart disease and strokes are among the leading causes of early death in the UK, but with regular exercise the risk can be greatly reduced.

Running around with your children or grandchildren, or walking them to school

Getting off the bus a stop early and walking the rest of the way

Taking a short power walk on your lunch break

There are so many ways to stay active and look after your heart.

There are also plenty of free team sports and activities to join across the borough, including football and yoga, which are perfect for all fitness levels and a great way to connect with others in our community. Many of our leisure centres also have accessible facilities, such as pool hoists, to allow everyone the opportunity to exercise.

Juggling a busy schedule with work and family life? You don’t necessarily have to carve out hours of time in the gym every week to see the benefits for your heart. Small changes to your daily routine can have a big impact.

Find out more: www.westminster.gov.uk/ healthy-hearts 020 7641 6000

Ask for Public Health team

PublicHealthDepartment@ westminster.gov.uk

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Take small steps for a

healthier heart today

T Stay active for

less

he ActiveWestminster Card is a free scheme for residents of Westminster designed to make staying active easier and more affordable.

It offers discounted access to a wide range of leisure centre activities across the borough, helping people of all ages and abilities get moving.

Cardholders can enjoy benefits such as reduced prices on gym memberships, discounted fitness classes, cheaper facility bookings, and free or heavily reduced swimming for eligible groups including children, young people, and concessionary residents.

The scheme is available to Westminster residents, students,

Kick Off T

hink your football boots are long retired? Think again. Westminster residents aged 50+ are being invited to get back in the game with free weekly walking football sessions at Paddington Recreation Ground.

Run in partnership with QPR Community Trust, the sessions offer a fun, friendly way to stay active, meet new people and enjoy the beautiful game at a gentler pace. Walking football is exactly what it sounds like – football played at walking pace, with no running or heavy tackles. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, it’s one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, helping thousands of older adults stay fit, social, and connected. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or trying something new, everyone is welcome.

young people, and eligible staff, with different levels of support depending on age and circumstances. From free swimming for under-18s to discounted memberships for adults and concessions, the card supports healthier, more active lifestyles across the community.

Whether you’re starting a fitness journey or looking to stay consistent, the ActiveWestminster Card makes it easier to move more and spend less in your local area.

Find out more: www.active.westminster.gov. uk/card/ active@westminster.gov.uk Ask for Active 020 7641 6000 Westminster team

Your Fitness Journey with Walking Football Sessions take place every Thursday from 5pm to 6pm and are completely free for Westminster residents aged 50 and over. So why not lace up your boots and get back on the pitch?

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support services Worried about youth violence in westminster?

Y

ou’re not alone – and support is available. Serious youth violence, including gang involvement, knife crime and exploitation, can have a lasting impact not just on those directly involved, but on wellbeing, opportunities and everyday life.

It can affect how safe people feel, influence choices and future pathways, and place real strain on families and relationships across our communities.

But help is available locally, and reaching out can make a real difference. Whether you’re worried about yourself, a young person, or someone you know, there are people ready to listen and support you. By speaking up and looking out for one another, we can build safer, stronger communities where young people feel supported, valued and able to thrive.

Westminster has a range of trusted services offering practical support, advice and guidance to help keep young people safe and support those affected.

How to get support for yourself Find support near you or your child Visit our Serious Youth Violence Hub to access: Local services and support Advice for families and young people Guidance on what to do if you’re worried www.westminster.gov.uk/ serious-youth-violence

Refer yourself or a child or young person who is under 18 by: 020 7641 6000 9am to 5pm weekdays Ask a professional you are working with to help Filling out a referral form: www.westminster.gov.uk/form/ serious-youth-violence-referral

We also want to hear your thoughts on the hub pages so please send us your feedback: communitysafety@ westminster.gov.uk

Understanding Hoarding Support, Safety and Getting Help

H

oarding is when someone keeps large numbers of items and finds it difficult to throw things away, even when it starts to affect daily life.

It can make it harder to use parts of the home safely, increase fire risks, and impact a person’s wellbeing. Hoarding is more common than many people realise, affecting an estimated 2% to 5% of people in the UK. In Westminster, this could mean thousands of residents are affected.

We know hoarding can be complex and distressing. While

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there is no quick fix, support is available. Our approach focuses on understanding each person’s situation and helping them access the right support. We are also improving how we respond to hoarding by strengthening partnerships across services, reviewing our processes, and providing specialist staff training.

If you are worried about hoarding, either for yourself or someone else, you can speak to your GP or, if you are a Westminster tenant, call our Housing team for advice and support.

www.westminster.gov.uk/ contact 0800 358 3783 housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk

YOUR COUNCIL SERVICES General Contact Details 020 7641 6000 www.westminster.gov.uk

Adult Education 020 7297 7297 info@waes.ac.uk www.waes.ac.uk

Adult Social Care

020 7641 2500 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm adultsocialcare@westminster. gov.uk www.peoplefirstinfo.org.uk

Animal Welfare

020 7641 2000 Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm awarden@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ animal-welfare

Anti-Social Behaviour 0800 358 3783 housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster. gov.uk/housing

Archives

020 7641 6200 archives@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ archives

Benefits

0800 072 0042 westminster.benefits@ secure.capita.co.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ benefits

Births, Deaths and Marriages (Register Office)

020 7641 7500 registeroffice@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ birth-and-death-certificatesmarriages-and-citizenship

Business Unit

020 7641 2070 businessunit@westminster. gov.uk www.businesswestminster. com

Cemeteries

020 8567 0913 parks@westminster.gov.uk

Children/Family Information Service

07971 625 922 FIS@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ children-and-education

Council Tax

03431 782 743 westminstercounciltax1@ secure.capita.co.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ council-tax

Health & Wellbeing

www.westminster.gov.uk/ health-and-social-care

Housing Services

0800 358 3783 housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ housing

Leisure Centres

active@westminster.gov.uk www.active.westminster.gov

Libraries

020 7641 6200 libraries@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ libraries

Parking

020 7823 4567 parkingservices@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ parking

Pest Control

0800 358 0514 pestcontrol@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ pest-control

Recycling/Rubbish 020 7641 2000 www.westminster. gov.uk/recycling

Report It

www.westminster.gov.uk/ report-it

SEN

020 7361 3311 SEN@rbkc.gov.uk localoffer.westminster.gov.uk

Street Markets

020 7641 6400 streettradinglicensing@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ markets

Westminster Connects 020 7641 1222 westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-connects

Westminster Employment Service

07971 026 709 employmentteam@ westminster.gov.uk westminster.gov.uk/wes 23

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