Includes a comprehensive map and local information about: l community groups l housing l health The Leys l education l advice and help Community l leisure and more... Handbook Dear Resident It is hoped that this handbook will provide a valuable Contents and interesting resource that will enable everyone to get involved with this vibrant community.
This handbook covers the areas known as Blackbird Leys, Greater Leys, Frys Hill, Shepherds Hill, Brake Hill and Little Bury. For the purpose of this handbook ‘The Leys’ covers all these areas. Getting involved 4–5 This handbook is brought to you by the Leys Housing Consortium (Catalyst Housing, Green Square and A2Dominion) Health and wellbeing 6–7 in partnership with Oxford City Council and Leys News. l Leys Health Centre l Dentists l Hospitals l Mental health services Special thanks to Oxford City Councillors for Blackbird Leys and Northfield Brook for their financial contribution. Thanks Children and families 8–10 also to Leys News staff and volunteers for their careful work l Family support l Toddler groups and dedication in compiling and designing this booklet. l Pre-schools and nursery school classes l After school clubs l Play-schemes The information given in this handbook was correct at the time of going to print in July 2012. Young people 11 Older people 12–13 Map of the Leys 14–15 Community centres 16–17 Places of worship 16–17 Training and education 18–19 l Adult education and training l Colleges l Primary schools l Secondary schools Libraries and computers 19 Original Welcome to Blackbird Leys handbook compiled by Patsy Spenser in 1997 First revision by Glyn Hazel, February 1999 Recreation, sport and leisure 20–21 Second revision by Jo Ashfield, June 2001 Third revision by Jennie Travis, March 2005 Information, advice and help 22–23 This edition by Trio Watson and Janet Pavelin, July 2012 Housing 23 Middle right photograph on front cover by Mike Peckett Glow Tree photograph by Jo Stannard Useful contacts 24–25 Back cover photographs: top and middle by Jo Stannard Transport 26 Design and layout by Julian Dourado Printed by Information Press, Eynsham
3 Getting involved
Blackbird Leys Community Emmaus (homeless charity) Leys CDI Youth Project Leys News Association To donate furniture , electrical appliances Young people (ages 15–25) are involved in 26 Kingfisher Green, Greater Leys OX4 7BX. Leys Community Centre, Blackbird Leys Road. and other household items (collected free) all levels, from consultation and planning Leys News is a newspaper dedicated to The association manages the Community See Information, advice and help, page 22 projects to volunteering on a music project. providing news and information to the Centre and provides activities and services 01865 763698 01865 395927 whole community. It is a not-for-profit for the benefit of Leys residents. [email protected] [email protected] organisation. 01865 402070 You can join the Leys News team of [email protected] Leys Community Market Leys Housing Tenants / volunteer community journalists and Affordable fresh produce and other goods; Leaseholders photographers. Letters, articles and photos Blackbird Leys Credit Union cafe; skills sharing; activities for children Get involved in shaping housing services, are also welcome from any Leys residents. Leys Community Centre, Blackbird Leys Road. and adults; cooking demonstrations and help in setting up a resident association or 01865 711756 The Credit Union makes low cost loans to more. Get involved by selling self grown or organise a street party. [email protected] members. More volunteers are needed home made goods or by joining the team Call Leys Housing Consortium Worker www.leysnews.co.uk for its day to day running. No previous of volunteers. 0300 456 2090 experience required. Suitable for retired [email protected] Leys WI person or not working. www.leyscommunitymarket.moonfruit.com Leys Neighbourhood The Clockhouse. For opening times see page 22 Partnership Meets on first Wednesday of each month, Geoffrey Richardson, 01865 718503 Leys CDI Meets every six weeks to discuss how 7.30–9.30pm. [email protected] The CDI promotes any charitable purposes services and residents can work together Rachel Fisher, 07528 433199 for the benefit of the community of for the benefit of the whole community. www.theleyswi.moonfruit.com CAGLEYS the Leys in order to relieve poverty and There are also smaller working groups Community Action Groups is a network sickness. It provides facilities in the interest who meet to identify specific issues and Oxfordshire Council for of local voluntary groups in Oxfordshire, of social welfare with the aim to improve the work in conjunction with local residents Voluntary Action (OCVA) who organise activities to take action conditions of life on the Leys and provides and with organisations to find solutions Old Court House, Floyds Row, Oxford OX1 1SS. on: climate change, waste reduction, consistent, safe, enjoyable quality activities by working together. Residents and local Offers advice to voluntary and community carbon reduction, sustainable transport, and opportunities particularly for the young groups are encouraged to get involved and groups, as well as providing a range of food, energy and water issues. CAGLEYS people and the over 50s. Volunteer trustees have their say about what happens in their courses for the voluntary sector. is a group of local residents who want to wanted. community. 01865 251946 promote sustainable lifestyles in the Leys, Sasha East, 01865 395927 Communities and Neighbourhood Team www. ocva.org.uk via swap shops, workshops for refashioning [email protected] 01865 252828 textiles, and donations from its allotment [email protected] Women’s Community to local groups. It meets six times per year Leys CDI Clockhouse Business Network in the Bullnose Morris. Project (for Over 50s) Leys Parish Council A friendly, low cost networking group Moe Scholl, 07879 044144 A community project whose programme Jack Argent Room, Leys Community Centre. for women who have or are interested in [email protected] is shaped and run by local over 50s. Older Takes practical action on behalf of residents starting their own business. It meets once a www.cagoxfordshire.org.uk volunteers get involved in everything from as well as providing a voice for the Leys at month and has a speaker followed by time fundraising and outreach to sharing skills, higher levels of government. Meets last for chatting and sharing tips. The emphasis Dovecote Voluntary planning activities and helping guide the Tuesday of the month. is on supporting each other and confidence Parents Committee project forward. To become a member contact the Parish building as well as learning from the A constituted group of local parents helping 01865 395908 Council office 9.00am–5.00pm, Monday to expertise of others. to provide out of school play facilities. [email protected] Friday. [email protected] Carol Richards, 01865 712299 Parish Council office, 01865 716943 www.womens-business-network.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] www.leysonline.net
4 5 Health and wellbeing
EMERGENCIES Leys Dental Care supported housing, benefits advice. The Leys Pharmacy For serious injury, loss of consciousness, 50 Blackbird Leys Road, Oxford OX4 6HP. Support for carers is also provided. Spar, Dunnock Way, Oxford OX4 7EX. chest pain or suspected stroke: Open Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm. 01865 247788 01865 401430 Phone 999 NHS patients accepted. [email protected] www.leyspharmacy.co.uk 01865 717749 Leys Health Centre Men’s Group Lloyds Pharmacy Dunnock Way, Blackbird Leys OX4 7EX. Hospitals Cowley Wellbeing Centre, Blackbird Leys Health Centre, New patients from Blackbird Leys and 26 Between Towns Road, Cowley. Dunnock Way, Greater Leys OX4 7EX. surrounding areas welcome. John Radcliffe Hospital Learn Stress Management tools and talk 01865 770713 01865 778244 01865 741166 with other men and organise activities www.lloydspharmacy.com together. Wednesdays, from 5.30–8.00pm. Churchill Hospital Duncan, 07435 760809 or 01865 749998 Advice 01865 741841 Drug and alcohol misuse Oxford Samaritans Smoking advice Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre 60 Magdalen Road, Oxford OX4 1RB. Anyone new to services Smokefree Oxfordshire phone line run by 01865 741155 Available 24 hours a day, seven days a Call LASARS Initial assessment and referral: the Oxfordshire Smoking Advice Service: week. They provide confidential emotional 01865 403261 0845 40 80 300 Warneford Hospital support for anyone experiencing feelings www.smokefreeoxfordshire.nhs.uk 01865 741717 of emotional distress or despair, including Alcoholics Anonymous those which may lead to suicide. Visit and Meetings are held at the Clockhouse on NHS Direct Littlemore Mental Health Centre speak face to face, 8am–10pm, every day. Tuesday at 8pm. NHS health advice and information service: 01865 741717 01865 722122 or 08457 90 90 90 01865 242373 0845 4647 [email protected] www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Mental health services www.samaritans.org.uk Harm minimisation services Rectory Centre, Rectory Rd, (off Cowley Rd). Daybreak carers support group Oxford Survivors Mon 12–7pm; Tue to Fri 12–4pm; Oxfordshire Weight Loss Leys Community Centre. and Lifestyle Service (OWLS) The Barn, Nightingale Avenue. Sat 11.30am–2.30pm. Specifically for people caring for those with A self-help group of people who use or 01865 455601 The Barn, Nightingale Avenue. have used Mental Health services working Free support group in the Barn that dementia. Guest speakers, support from others in the same situation. together to get support for, to share Recovery service provides high quality weight loss support experiences, and to press for greater Old Music Hall, Cowley Road, to safely lose weight and maintain weight Meets third Monday of every month, 11.30am–1.30pm. Free. awareness of the needs of survivors. (opposite Rectory Road). loss in the long term. Fridays and Saturdays, 10.30am–3.30pm. 01865 403247 Marie Carter, 01865 910210 Andy Buckland, 01865 776744 The Listening Centre Pathway Workshop Disposal Dentists c/o the Leys Childrens Centre, Productive employment and training for l Found needle / syringe collection: Cuddesdon Corner. adults with physical disabilities and those Call Environmental Health: 01865 249811 Leys Dental Practice A low cost confidential counselling service. with learning impairment. Note: needle collections are treated as a Leys Health Centre, Dunnock Way, 01865 794794 01865 714111 high priority. Reporting number Blackbird Leys OX4 7EX. www.pathway-workshop.co.uk available 24 hours per day. Currently accepting NHS patients, can Oxfordshire MIND Pharmacies l Pharmacies with needle exchange: provide urgent dental access appointments. Provides a range of services to help people Lloyds Pharmacy on Blackbird Leys Road Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday towards wellbeing and recovery. From the Lloyds Pharmacy and The Leys Pharmacy on Dunnock Way. 8.20am–12.30pm and 1.30–5.30pm, Cowley Wellbeing Centre it runs drop-in 100 Blackbird Leys Road, Oxford OX4 6HS. Tuesday and Thursday, 8.00am–8.00pm. sessions, support groups, short courses and 01865 778729 01865 396015 1:1 recovery work. Psychological therapies, www.lloydspharmacy.com 6 7 Children and families
know about and are able to use all the Maluchy Group Windale Community Family support resources that are available to them. Stay Pegasus School. Primary School Breastfeeding Café and Play sessions run throughout the week. For Polish speaking families with children Windale Ave, Blackbird Leys OX4 6JD. Leys Children’s Centre, Cuddesdon Corner. Various courses are held including first ages 0–5. Saturdays, 10.00–11.30am For children aged 2½–11. Mondays, 1.00pm–2.00pm. aid, parenting, cookery, nutrition, literacy, (excluding half terms and holidays). Jo Rooney, 01865 777796 Camille Kalaja, 07899 958316 ESOL. Free crèche available. They also have Polska grupa ‘Maluchy’ dla rodzin z [email protected] an outreach team that supports individual dziecmi, wiek 0–5 lat. w kazda sobote Dad’s Zone families. 10.00–11.30 (oprocz half term’ow, wakacji, Cooperative Nursery Leys Children’s Centre. Valerie O’Malley, 01865 779615 swiat ) w szkole Pegasus. Cuddesdon Way, Blackbird Leys OX4 6JP. A supportive play space for all Dads and [email protected] Agata, 07874 187704 Open 8am–6pm, Monday to Friday. Grandads to be with their children. For www.theleyschildrenscentre.org [email protected] For children from 3 months to 5 years. children aged 0–5, with their siblings if Jane Long, 01865 401205 under 8. Saturdays, 10.00am–1.30pm. PEEP Trampolining: Mother Conroy Harris, 07775 407524 PEEP groups (for ages 0–3) are free for all and toddler bounce For more information on children’s dads, mums, carers and their children. Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. nurseries contact Valerie O’Malley Home-Start OXFORD PEEP offers play activities, information Thursdays at 10.30–11.30am. or Anne Wells on 01865 779615. Leys Community Centre, Blackbird Leys Road. and support in helping children learn and Fiona Middleton, 07891 419793 Volunteers offer regular support, friendship develop. Call or ask health visitor for more After school clubs and practical help to families in their own information about nearest group. Pre-schools homes, helping to prevent family crisis and 01865 395145 Blackbird Leys breakdown. www.peep.org.uk Shepherds Hill Pre-School Adventure Playground 01865 779991 Windale School, Greater Leys. After school club (ages 8–13) runs term [email protected] Yellow Submarine For children aged 2–5. time only. Play activities include craft, Respite holidays for families caring for Sarah Pearson, 01865 779504 outdoor play, equipment, making dens, Kiddie Club someone with learning difficulties. parachute games, cooking, healthy snacks. Dovecote Centre, Nightingale Avenue, Caroline, 01865 249662 Runs Monday to Friday, 3.15–5.30pm. Blackbird Leys OX4 7BU. www.yellowsubmarine.org.uk Nursery school classes Sue Price, 01865 429036 An open access family drop in for children or 07773 848998 ages 0–5. Facilities are provided on a Toddler groups Orchard Meadow [email protected] first come first served basis. Thursdays, Primary School 9.30am–2.30pm. Monthly under 5s Rhymetimes Wesley Close, Blackbird Leys OX4 6BG. The Dovecote 01865 712299 Blackbird Leys Library. For children aged 3½–11. Children get to enjoy a variety of [email protected] Normally runs on a Saturday, 10.30– Wendy Radbourn, 01865 778609 challenging and stimulating activities. 11.00am. Disabled access and sensory room. Non- The Leys Children’s Centre 01865 770403 Pegasus Primary School subsidised places for working parents l Leys Children’s Centre – Cuddesdon Corner, [email protected] Field Ave, Blackbird Leys OX4 6RQ. are available. Term-time only, Monday to 61–63 Cuddesdon Way, Blackbird Leys OX4 6SB; For children aged 3–11. Thursday, 3.15–5pm. l Leys Children’s Centre – Pegasus School, Blackbird Leys Swimming Pool Jane Caffyn, 01865 777175 01865 712299 Field Avenue, Blackbird Leys OX4 6RQ; Please see under Recreation, Sport St John Fisher Nursery l Leys Children’s Centre – Windale School, and Leisure, page 20 Sandy Lane West, Littlemore, Oxford OX4 6LD. For children aged 3–11. Windale Avenue, Blackbird Leys OX4 6JD. Play schemes see page 10 For families with children from ages 0–5. Grandparents Stay and Play Mrs Carol Bouwers, 01865 779676 Wednesdays 1.00–3.00pm. The aim is to get the best for children in Schools see pages 18–19 all aspects of life making sure that families Anne Wells, 01865 779615 8 9 Children and families continued Young people Dovecote Afloat Scheme Leys Youth Programme Leys CDI Youth Project Play-schemes Biddy’s Dream moored at Thrupp in Leys Community Centre. l Football and basketball: Kidlington. Working with young people aged 9–25. Blackbird Leys Adventure Thursday to Friday. Children aged 8–14 have the opportunity Runs free After School Clubs. Also runs Playground Playscheme Aaron Templer, 07823 335469 Summer playscheme running from 30 July to enjoy a variety of activities along the very successful low cost holiday projects: l Girls’ street dance classes: Oxford canal or the Thames towpaths. activities include street dance workshops, to 24 August 2012. Suits ages 8–13. Runs term time on Wednesdays. For Easter and Summer schemes contact graffiti workshops, kids café, days out. Sue Price, 01865 429036 Agee Gett, 07723 386730 the Dovecote Centre. Marsha Jackson, 01865 395927 or 07773 848998 or Alidja Templer, 07823 335906 [email protected] Biddy’s Dream can be hired by [email protected] l Girls’ art and craft club: community groups for up to 12 people. Runs term time on Wednesdays. Day trips (10am–5pm) with experienced Leys CDI Youth Project Agee Gett, 07723 386730 Oxon (Rifles) Battalion, holiday activities helmsman cost £150 (at time of print). Army Cadet Force Activities include street dance, graffiti Carol Richards, 01865 712299 st Sandy Lane West, Littlemore OX4 6XT. on canvas, music technology, capoeira, 1 Blackbird Leys Brownies Activities for boys and girls 13–18. Meet weekly during school term times and photography, zumba, beat making, MPV PARASOL Group meets Thursdays, 7.30pm–9.30pm. offer a range of activities including crafts, workshop, sports, kids café, roller skating Tower PlayBase, Maltfield Road, 01869 259681 games and baking, as well as working and a day trip to the seaside or theme Northway, Oxford OX3 9RG. towards badges. Also runs trips. Ages 7–10. parks. Ages 9–19. Runs during the school PARASOL is working to promote and 35th Oxford Scout group Jennifer, 07886 757338 holidays. provide inclusive play, social and Duncan Bowler, 07766 293353 [email protected] 01865 395927 recreational opportunities for disabled and [email protected] leyscdi@btconnect,com non-disabled children and young people st in Oxford City. Parasol helps to support 1 Blackbird Leys Guides Cubs and Beavers Dovecote Play Scheme disabled children in a variety of Play Holy Family Church Hall, Cuddesdon Way. 0845 300 1818 Girls 10 years upwards. Games, crafts, Children aged 4–12 can attend for two schemes throughout Oxford city during members.scouts.org.uk adventures and residential activities. Meets weeks. Childcare places are provided for the school holidays. on Fridays. working parents at non-subsidised cost 01865 742816 Teenage Rounders group Heather, 01865 747562 of £25 per day (in most cases 80% can be On the field near Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. [email protected] claimed back from family tax credits). 14–18 year olds. Tuesdays, 4.00–5.00pm. The play scheme runs during the school Leon Popplewell, 01865 467245 holidays. Rainbows Holy Family Church Hall, Cuddesdon Way. Carol Richards, 01865 712299 Youth First Girls aged 5–7. Fridays during term time. Church of the Holy Family. Alexandra, 07804 500313 Group for ages 11–19. Table tennis, snooker, make up and nails, art and discussion. Open Access Meets Tuesdays, 5–7pm during term time. Open to young people aged 12–18. Sue Price, 01865 429036 There is a PS3, TV, pool table, table tennis, or 07773 848998 sports hall and arts and crafts. Monday 6.00– 8.30pm, Thursday 5.00– Strawberry Fayre Majorettes 7.30pm and Friday 6.00–8.30pm. The Barn, Nightingale Avenue. 01865 816202 Wednesday, 7.00–9.15pm Cowley Air Cadets Eileen Filer, 01865 717781 ATC Hut, Sandy Lane West, [email protected] Littlemore, Oxford OX4 6XT. Mondays and Wednesdays, 7.00–9.30pm. 01865 775691 10 11 Older people
AGE UK Oxfordshire Daybreak Rosewood Club Leys Community Church Samba Dance The Clockhouse. The Clockhouse, Long Ground, Over 60s Club The Clockhouse. Community day club (can self-refer). Blackbird Leys, Oxford OX4 7FX. Leys Community Church, All over 50s welcome, no experience Meets on Friday. The Centre provides a range of stimulating Meets every Wednesday afternoon. necessary. Dance to infectious rhythms, 01865 717615 group and individual activities for mainly Keith Templar, 01865 715815 shake it up and let it all out! Samba is older people with mental health problems an Afro-Brazilian dance form danced in Age UK including dementia. A midday meal plus Monday Lunch Club carnivals in Brazil. Mondays, 10–11am. The Clockhouse. tea and coffee is provided during the day. Frys Court, Long Ground, Greater Leys. Claire Thompson, 01865 252820 Basic nail cutting service for people over 65. Monday–Friday, 9.30am–3.00pm. You do not need to be a resident to come, [email protected] £13 per treatment. Graham Hooper, 01865 749349 but regular booking is required. 01865 717615 Anne Appleton, 01865 422231 Care homes Daybreak carers support group For bingo please see Recreation, The Barn. Over 50s advice Brookfield Christian Care Home Sport and Leisure Section, page 20 Specifically for people caring for those The Clockhouse. Little Bury, Greater Leys, Oxford OX4 7UY. with dementia. Guest speakers; support Free monthly, confidential, advice on 01865 779888 Sporting activities for over 50s from others in the same situation. benefits, debt, housing and consumer At Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. Third Monday of every month, 11.30am– issues. No appointment needed. Longlands Care Home l Indoor cycling: Mon, 11.30am–2.15pm 1.30pm. Free. Outreach session at the Clockhouse by Longlands Road, Blackbird Leys OX4 6AJ. l Badminton: Wed, 12.30–1.30pm Andy Buckland, 01865 776744 Agnes Smith advice Centre. 01865 779224 l Zumba Gold: Wed, 12.30–1.30pm Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 or 01865 714720 01865 467020 Gardening Club The Clockhouse. Primetime over 50s group Accommodation Public swimming Monthly meeting of SLIGO (Senior Leys Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. for older people sessions for over 50s Independent Gardening Organisation). Keep fit, bingo, indoor bowls, speakers, There are several types of accommodation At Blackbird Leys Swimming Pool. New adult members of all ages welcome. activities, and trips. Wednesdays, 10.30am– available for older people in Blackbird Leys: 01865 467040 There are trips as well as meetings. 3.30pm. £1.50. housing with an alarm system, sheltered First Thursday of each month at 2.00pm. Sheila Kelly, 07534 740589 housing which also provides some Computer courses £2 per meeting. Rose Peach, 01865 467020 additional support, and Extra Care schemes for the over 50s Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 where care is also provided and support The Clockhouse. Reg Curnock, 01865 454524 with domestic help and meals. Learn at your own pace with the To apply call Oxford City Council on: Clockhouse IT project group. Leys CDI Clockhouse Project 01865 249811 Complete beginners very welcome. The Clockhouse Project works with over Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 50s in the Leys area, developing services Gerry Webb, 07962 887379 and activities in response to their priorities. A lively range of events and activities CLANG! are offered, at the Clockhouse and other The Clockhouse. venues, throughout the year. Activities are Local people have started a “Clockhouse all low-cost or free, and most are drop-in. Activity Nights Group” (CLANG). The groups are friendly and welcoming. Join the CLANGers to meet others, share Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 ideas and help plan the next step! [email protected] Monthly socials/activity evenings. Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 12 13
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d. n Pochard Pl Cl Av Woodpecker Green . Apple Tree Cl e Hobby Court
14 G r e n o b l e R o a d 15 Community centres
training, markets and fitness activities The Dovecote Leys Community Centre The Barn, the Clockhouse Hall with wooden parquet flooring can be and the Dovecote Nightingale Avenue, OX4 7BU. Blackbird Leys Road, OX4 6HW. divided into two rooms (capacity of up to Purpose-built Centre for children with Regular activities vary from bingo to Managed by the Leys Housing 100 people). Attached is a fully functional two dayrooms (capacity 25 people each boxing, youth provision, IT to Zumba. Consortium, local residents and industrial kitchen. Both hall and kitchen are room), adjacent kitchen facility and fun play Groups and individuals are able to hire community groups are encouraged to available for hire. garden. It has a family drop-in for under 5s, different spaces. use these community spaces. Therefore For more info call 0300 456 2090 a sensory room for disabled children, runs all buildings have various hire rates, an after school club as well as holiday play l Glow Hall: capacity 150 people, depending on where you live and/or on The Clockhouse schemes. Can be hired for children’s parties, lovely large hall with adjacent industrial the nature of your organisation. Long Ground, OX4 7FX. family/grandparent support groups, child kitchen suitable for larger gatherings, meetings, conferences and parties /wakes / Contact: Purpose-built, comfortable building for related training and meetings. over 50s. Both small (capacity 25 people) For full programme call 01865 712299 christenings /weddings. Catalyst Housing Office0300 456 3090 To hire the Glow Hall call 01865 395927 [email protected] and large (capacity 50 people) rooms available for evening/weekend hire for Jubilee Hall 77 or email [email protected] meetings, groups, and events. Beautiful Sorrel Road, Blackbird Leys OX4 6SH. l The Jack Argent Room: including The Barn courtyard garden. Building is used for This community centre has a main hall serving area (capacity 80 people), suitable Corner of Nightingale Avenue/Long Ground, many different low-cost over 50s activities, (capacity up to 50 people) with adjacent for small gatherings, meetings and parties. Greater Leys OX4 7BU. including IT training, monthly advice kitchen facilities and a meeting room. It l Sports Hall: for sports activities. Popular beautiful venue for social events, sessions, daytime clubs, and a wide variety is available for hire for one off events or such as children’s parties, wedding of other groups. Several evening groups for regular meetings and gatherings. l Offices: available to rent. receptions etc., but also great for adults of all ages. 01865 252791 Contact: 01865 402070 community events, groups, meetings, For full programme call 01865 395908 [email protected] [email protected]
Places of worship Church of the Holy Family Central Oxford Mosque Mount Zion Ministries Sacred Heart Catholic Church An ecumenical partnership of Anglican, Manzil Way, Oxford OX4 1DJ. Leys Community Centre. Balfour Road, Blackbird Leys OX4 6BD. Baptist, Methodist, United Reform Church 01865 245547 Sunday service, 11.00am–13.30pm. Sunday masses at 9.30am. and Moravian churches. [email protected] Pastor Chris Ugwu, 07877 536406 Fr Nazariuz Mgungwe, 01865 776903 Sunday service 10am. [email protected]. 01865 396241 The Leys Community Church www.mtzionox.org Oxford Synagogue www.holyfamilybbl.co.uk Beecroft Room, Oxford Academy. 21 Richmond Road, OX1 2JL. Special activities for children and young Redeem Christian 01865 514356 Chrisco Ministries UK people. Sunday service 11.00am. Church of God Jack Argent Room, Leys Community Centre. Chipper or Anna Betts, 07985 982804 Leisure Centre, Blackbird Leys Road. Oxford Quaker Meeting House Sundays, 11.00am–2.00pm. Sundays 3.00–6.00pm. 43 St Giles, Oxford OX1 3LW. Pastor Gitaua, 07533 845714 Sikh Temple 01865 766056 01865 557373 Mary Gitaua, 07737 564677 295–297 London Road, Headington, Oxford. or 07825 679044 www.oxfordquakers.org Sarbhjit Singh, 07768 290941 www.RCCGLighthouse.co.uk www.gurdwara.oxfordsikhs.com 16 17 Training and education
Colleges Windale Community Oxford Spires Academy Adult education Primary School Glanville Road, Oxford OX4 2AU. and training Oxford and Cherwell Windale Ave, Blackbird Leys OX4 6JD. For ages 11–18. Valley College For ages 2 ½–11. 01865 428200 Oxpens Road, Oxford OX1 1SA. 01865 777796 Oxfordshire Adult Learning 01865 550550 St Gregory the Great Can help develop existing skills, discover www.ocvc.ac.uk Secondary schools Cricket Road, Oxford OX4 3DR. new talents, as well as providing For ages 11–18. motivation and encouragement to 01865 749933 achieve personal goals. Oxford Brookes University Northfield School Gipsy Lane, Oxford OX3 0BP. Knights Road, Blackbird Leys OX4 6DQ. l General enquiries: 01865 484848 For ages 11–18. Other schools 01865 797474 [email protected] 01865 771703 www.brookes.ac.uk l Able Centre (adult learning) Mabel Prichard School The Oxford Academy Cuddesdon Way, Oxford OX4 6SB. Next to the Blackbird Leys Library. Free courses in Maths and English, Ruskin College Sandy Lane West, Littlemore OX4 6JZ. For ages 2–19. Walton Street, Oxford OX1 2HE. ages 16+. For ages 11–18. 01865 777878 Higher education access and lifelong Call Nicky Williams: 01865 774311 learning for all. 01865 728688 Hannah Jones, 01865 759604 l Adults with learning disabilities (ALD): [email protected] 01865 779584 www.ruskin.ac.uk l Course enquiries and enrolments: 0845 351 0646 Oxford University University Offices, Wellington Square, Libraries and computers l English classes for speakers Oxford OX1 2JD. of other languages (ESOL): 01865 270000 01865 727148 www.ox.ac.uk BLITZ Blackbird Leys Library (Blackbird Leys Information Technology Zone) Five free public access computers with Ethnic Minority Primary schools Leys Community Centre. printer, two designated for under 15s. Business Services Orchard Meadow l Drop-in sessions (age 19+): free access Time restrictions apply. Tyndale House, Second Floor, Primary School to Computers / Internet for members of Mon, Wed, Thurs: 9am–12pm and 1.30–5pm. 134b Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1JQ. Wesley Close, Blackbird Leys OX4 6BG. the public. Tues: 9.00am–12.00pm. EMBS provides training for the For ages 3 ½–11. l Free IT courses (age 19+): Computer Sat: 9.30am–12.30pm. unemployed, learning services for both 01865 778609 skills for beginners, internet, email, file 01865 770403 adults and young people (ages 16–18) and management, PC maintenance, and more. [email protected] business courses for local businesses. Pegasus Primary School Office Hours: 9.00am–3.30pm. 07865 794431 Field Ave, Blackbird leys, Oxford OX4 6RQ. 01865 714492 The Clockhouse For ages 3–11. [email protected] Computer courses for the over 50s. Learn Rewley House 01865 777175 www.blitzblackbirdleys.co.uk at your own pace with the Clockhouse IT Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, project group. Complete beginners very Oxford OX1 2 JA. St John Fisher Primary School welcome. Daytime and evening classes for the public. Sandy Lane West, Littlemore OX4 6LD. Sally Meachim, 01865 395908 01865 270360 For ages 3–11. Gerry Webb, 07962 887379 www.conted.ox.ac.uk 01865 779676 18 19 Recreation, sport and leisure
Active Women Blackbird Leys Choir Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre Irish Dancing Runs fun fitness classes for girls and women Jack Argent Room, Leys Community Centre. Pegasus Road. At the Sacred Heart Hall, Balfour Road. like badminton, netball, trampolining and Meets on Wednesdays, 6.30–8.30pm. Offers a variety of leisure activities and Wed and Thurs, 5.00pm. more. Jeremy Renals, 07765 480625 classes to members and non-members: Natasha Mighty, 01865 467264 [email protected] As many as 53 group exercise fitness classes OX4 Oxford Academy or 0732404088 www.blackbirdleyschoir.org per week, as well as gym, badminton, Sports /Community facilities www.getoxfordshireactive.org football, basketball, volleyball, room hire, Offers a wide range of sports to the public Oxford Blackbirds boys children’s activities, and birthday parties. including badminton, basketball, football, Bingo and Social group and girls football club Crèche open at all times during classes. volleyball, futsal, hockey, rugby, tennis, Jack Argent Room, Leys Community Centre. Blackbird Leys Playing fields, Cuddesdon Way . Slice cards, no contract monthly athletics, trampolining, cricket and netball. l Golden Circle: Thursday, 2.00–4.00pm. Football for girls and boys in age groups of memberships, and affordable sports OX4 also offers a fitness suite, dance studio Call Bernard Tucker, 01865 460592 under 6s, 7s, 8s, 9s, 10s, 11s, 12s, 13s, 14s, 15s activities for people on benefits. and conference facilities. l Silver Circle: Tuesday, 2.00–4.00pm. and 16s. 01865 467020 Open 5.00–10.00pm, Monday to Friday Call 01865 435954 Kevin Trendell, 07525 905208 or just pop into reception and 9.00am–7.00pm at weekends. or 01865 712178 01865 783238 Blackbird Leys Family Quiz Night [email protected] Allotments Association Greater Leys Youth At the Sacred Heart Church Hall, Balfour Rd. www.ox4.uk.com Half or full allotments may be available at Football Club Usually every other month on a Friday, 7.30–10.00pm; £3 adults, £1 children. Kestrel Crescent or Watlington Road. Football for girls and boys in age groups of Ozone Leisure and Rita McGroarty, 07817 737458 Reg Curnock, 01865 454524 under 8s, 9s, 10s, 11s, 14s, 15s and 16s. Entertainment Park Ian Fieldwick, on 01865 396691 Higher Energy Trampoline Club Grenoble Road, OX4 4XP. Blackbird Leys Amateur l or 07557 020355 Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. iKids activity club and café. For information call 01865 712846 Boxing Club Nicholas Courtney-Cramp, 07862 236540 Sessions held each Monday: l Gala Bingo. Call 01865 774477 Leys Community Centre. or 01865 401625 4.15–5.00pm, ages 4–7, l Ozone Health and Fitness Club. Governed by fully qualified A.B.A. [email protected] 5.00–5.45pm, ages 7–11, For information call 01865 335300 coaches; protective clothing supplied. 5.45–6.30pm, secondary school, www.ozonehealthclub.co.uk New members welcome. All members are Girls’ Football on the Leys 6.30–7.15 pm, adults. [email protected] subject to a medical check. Pitch 4, Blackbird Leys Playing Fields, Fiona Middleton, 07891 419793 l Bowlplex. Includes 10 pin bowling, Tue: 7.00–8.00pm, juniors (ages 10–16); Cuddeson Way (alongside Bowls Club). [email protected] 8.00–9.30pm, seniors (ages 17+). Ages from 6–11. Sessions on Saturday www.higher-energy-trampolineclub.com Stadium Sports Bar and Grill, Pool Pit, Thurs: 8.00–9.30pm, seniors only. mornings, 10.00–11.30am. Amusement Arcade and Grill counter. Fri: 5.00–6.00pm, juniors only. Vicky Bonham, 07956 415587 OX105 FM Call 01865 714100 Sun: 11.00am–12.30pm, juniors and seniors. or 01993 894402 For anyone interested in radio or would l Vue Cinema Oxford Tony Gibson, 01865 432995 Nicholas Courtney-Cramp, 07862 236540 like to get into radio. Training in broadcast 12 screens and a variety of restaurants. [email protected] or 01865 401625 journalism available. Call 08712 240 240 www.clubwebsite.co.uk/ Geno Humphrey, 01865 777772 greaterleysyouthfootballclub Blackbird Leys Bowls Club [email protected] Soundworks Blackbird Leys playing fields, www.ox105fm.com Leys Community Centre. Cuddeson Way, Blackbird Leys. Blackbird Leys Swimming Pool Community rehearsal time, community David Buckwell, 01865 775856 Public swimming sessions for swimmers of Kassam Stadium Car Boot Sale recording sessions, BTEC in music all ages. Grenoble Road, OX4 4XP. technology. 01865 467040 Sundays, all year round. Danny Burbridge, 01865 401585 01895 639912 [email protected] www.bray-associates.co.uk 20 21 Information, advice and help
Parish Council and Clerk Estate, Oxford OX3 9QY. Low prices and Oxfordshire Family Mediation Elected representatives Malcolm Anderson, 01865 716943 25% discount for people on benefits. 125 London Road, Headington, (Correct at time of print) [email protected] 01865 402073 Oxford OX3 9HZ. www.leysonline.net www.emmausoxford.org OFM aims to provide an all-round approach Oxford City Councillors to family breakdown to meet the needs of Blackbird Leys Ward: Leys News Emergencies children and separated families. 26 Kingfisher Green, Greater Leys OX4 7BX. (Police, fire and ambulance) 999 01865 741781 l Rae Humberstone Leys News is a free newspaper dedicated [email protected] 01865 779678 and 07768 429566 to providing news and information to the Police non-emergency number [email protected] whole community. It is a not-for-profit 101 Oxford City Council l Val Smith organisation. Articles and photos are Environmental Health 01865 595792 and 07767 446051 welcome. Blackbird Leys Waste: [email protected] 01865 711756 Neighbourhood Police team l found syringe / needles collection officemanager@ leysnews.co.uk 101 l removal of abandoned Northfield Brook Ward: www.thamesvalley.police.uk cars and fly tipping l Steve Curran Blackbird Leys Credit Union l free collection of bulky waste 07941 785538 Leys Community Centre. Crimestoppers charity Environmental Health: [email protected] The Credit Union makes low cost loans 0800 555111 l control of pests and noise to members, based on an interview to be l contacting the dog warden l Scott Seamons sure loans will be repaid where possible. Neighbour anti-social behaviour Oxford City Council switchboard, 07910 595047 It is open on Monday 10am–5pm, Tuesday 01865 249811 [email protected] Contact the City Council’s specialist Crime 12–3pm, Wednesday 10am–1pm, Thursday and Nuisance Action Team (CANAcT). 12–3pm, Friday10am–1pm. 01865 252969 Oxfordshire County Council Geoffrey Richardson, 01865 718503 Leys & Lye Division: [email protected] l Val Smith Agnes Smith Advice Centre 07767 446051 96 Blackbird Leys Road. [email protected] FREE confidential help with finances, ben- l Richard Stevens efits, consumer debt and housing issues. Housing 07725 353031 Drop-in sessions: A2Dominion GreenSquare (formerly OCHA) [email protected] l Mondays, 2.00–4.00pm Godstow Court, 5 West Way, Oxford OX2 0GE. 244 Barns Road, Oxford OX4 3RW. l Fridays, 10.00am–12.00pm, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5pm. MP for Oxford East l Monthly sessions at the Clockhouse. 0800 432 0077 0800 980 9272 l Tues and Thurs, 10.00am–12.00pm l Andrew Smith [email protected] [email protected] at the Farmhouse. www.a2dominion.co.uk www.greensquaregroup.com Unit A, Bishops Mews, Transport 01865 770206 Way, Oxford OX4 6HD. Catalyst Housing Oxford City Council 01865 595790 [email protected] Emmaus The Farmhouse, Nightingale Avenue, Local office at 2/3 Bank Court, Emmaus tackles the problems of Oxford OX4 7BU. Templars Square, Oxford OX4 3UZ. Surgery: Blackbird Leys Leisure homelessness through a network of self- Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. Monday to Thursday, 9.30am–5.00pm Centre, third Friday of each month supporting Communities, where people 0300 456 2090 Fridays, 9.30am–4.30pm. from 3.00pm. are offered a home, a job and a sense of [email protected] 01865 249811 belonging. The Emmaus Secondhand www.chg.org.uk www.oxford.gov.uk Superstore is at Westlands Drive, Northway 22 23 Useful contacts
24 hour flood-line advice 0845 9881188 Oxford City Council switchboard 01865 249811 www.oxford.gov.uk Agnes Smith Advice Centre 01865 770206 Oxfordshire County Council switchboard 01865 792422 Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk
National Blood Service 0300 1230 2323 Oxfordshire Dial-a-Ride 0845 310 1111 www.blood.co.uk Oxfordshire Smoking Advice Service 0845 4080300 CANAcT 01865 252969 Probation services 01865 240750 Carers Line 0808 808 7777 Wed and Thur only, 10am–12pm and 2–4pm. Racism Action Line 01865 815239
Credit Union 01865 718503 Relate (relationship counselling) 01865 242960
Domestic abuse: Samaritans 01865 722122 ChildLine 0800 1111 Social Services 0845 050 7666 www.childline.org.uk Street Lighting 0800 317802 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 Victim Support 01865 751511 Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre 01865 726295 Utilities: Drug helplines: National Gas Emergency Service 0800 111 999 24 hours a day. Frank 0800 77 66 00 Emergency boiler and heating repairs 0800 975 0522 Families Anonymous 0845 1200 660 British Gas emergency repair service for any central heating problem. Call the Harm Minimisation Services 01865 455601 manned customer helpline to arrange an engineer’s visit. Emmaus 01865 402073 Water emergencies: Thames Water 0845 920 0800 Environmental Health 01865 249811 Electricity emergencies Oxford City Council housing needs team 01865 249811 To report a power cut or dangerous situation contact your local electricity Housing Benefit 01865 249811 network supplier.
Leys Community Centre 01865 402070
NHS Direct helpline 0845 4647
24 25 Transport
Bus services The Leys is served by the following bus services. Check with providers for up to date information.
1 Blackbird Leys to City Centre, via Cowley Centre and Cowley Road. (Service run by Stagecoach.)
5 Blackbird Leys to Oxford Railway Station, via Cowley Centre, Cowley Road and City Centre. (Service run by Oxford Bus Company.)
12 Greater Leys to City Centre, via Blackbird Leys, Cowley Centre and Cowley Road. (Service run by Stagecoach.) Oxford Bus Company Customer Services 01865 785400 [email protected] www.oxfordbus.co.uk
The key (rechargeable travel smartcard) key Helpline 01865 785400 www.oxfordkey.co.uk
Stagecoach Enquires 01865 772250 [email protected] Stagecoach Disability Helpdesk 01865 772250 [email protected] www.stagecoachbus.com
Oxfordshire Dial-a-Ride A minibus service for people with mobility problems who cannot use normal public transport. The minibuses operate between 9am–5pm, have to be booked in advance. Registration and bookings 0845 310 1111 National Rail Enquiries 08457 48 49 50 www.nationalrail.co.uk
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