News from your council March/April 2021 Get tested to slow the spread of the virus

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Contents March/April 2021

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8 Hayes cinema plans move a step closer n my first Hillingdon People column as Leader of the Revised proposals for a new four-screen complex Council, I would like to reassure you that there will be were approved in January. Ino reduction in the services that we deliver and we will continue to stay resolutely focused on putting residents first. ▸ 9 Budget for 2021/22 approved Investing in the future and continuing to put Last month the council set its budget for 2021/22, once residents first. again keeping the council tax rise to 90 per cent of our neighbouring boroughs', with a small increase of 1.8 per ▸ 14 Could you make a difference? cent, and showing our commitment to maintaining and Our new campaign hopes to inspire local people to investing in services and facilities for residents of all ages. foster children and young people. Fees and charges on services provided by the council for Hillingdon residents, including parking charges, will also remain at least 10 ▸ 19 Working together to keep Hillingdon safe per cent lower than those charged by neighbouring authorities. The council continues to support residents, local Additionally, the council’s strong financial management has businesses and community groups during the pandemic. meant that we will be able to support the borough’s COVID-19 recovery, with £10 million set aside as contingency should ▸ 22 Protect yourself and your community government grants not be sufficient to alleviate funding pressures. Hillingdon’s vaccination programme gathers pace The council will continue to invest in your parks, libraries and provides hope for the future. and leisure facilities; make improvements to support local high streets; resurface your roads and pavements, build 24 Taking action to maintain pavements new homes and provide additional school places. We answer some of your most frequently asked You can read about a range of investment projects in this questions about vehicle crossovers/dropped kerbs. issue of Hillingdon People, including our ongoing library refurbishment programme, the recent playgrounds that have Regulars benefitted from upgrades thanks to our popular Chrysalis 4 Hillingdon News 10 Older People scheme and the installation of a new bowling clubhouse. At the same time, our focus and priority is tackling the COVID-19 32 Volunteers 35 Contacts pandemic by supporting residents and local businesses during these challenging times and working with our health partners COVER PHOTO: PAUL DAY WHO WORKS IN SOUTH RUISLIP GETS TESTED FOR COVID-19. SEE PAGE 19 FOR MORE DETAILS. to help us return to a more normal life as soon as possible. We have also been working in partnership with the Metropolitan Police to take enforcement action against those who are not adhering to the guidelines. As the vaccination programme gathers pace, I would like to encourage you to have your vaccine as soon as you are offered one. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, and gives you the best protection against the virus. It will also help to protect 12 16 friends, family and your local community from this deadly disease. Whether you have or haven’t had the vaccine it’s imperative that you continue to follow government guidance and remember to regularly wash your hands, wear a face covering when required and keep a safe distance from others. I would also like to encourage residents who are not displaying symptoms to regularly use our lateral flow testing 26 28 centres, especially those who cannot work from home. As many as one in three people with COVID-19 do not have Advertising deadline for next edition: Friday 2 April 2021. symptoms and may be spreading the virus without knowing it. We have now opened seven testing centres and I can Editorial and advertising enquiries confirm, as I regularly have one, that the test is quick and 01895 556903 easy and enables those who test positive, and their contacts, [email protected] to self-isolate and drive the rate of infection down. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hillingdonpeople I have been impressed by how Hillingdon residents have come together to support each other during the pandemic, After reading, please and would like to thank you all for your efforts. recycle this magazine Stay safe Published by London Borough of Hillingdon © 2021 Hillingdon People, 3S/05 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Design Corporate Communications Printed by Paragon Service Point Products and services advertised in this magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the council. For a copy in large print or as an Cllr Ian Edwards audio version call 01895 556903 LEADER OF THE COUNCIL

2 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 3 news news Students vote on the issues New Council Leader appointed and Cabinet announced that matter to them most Cllr Ian Edwards became the borough. Cllr Puddifoot before retiring after more He became a councillor Leader of the Council will remain a ward member than 30 years' service in in 2014, first representing At the end of last year, on Thursday 14 January, for Ickenham until the next 2007. He then served as a Yiewsley. Since 2018, he pupils aged between replacing Cllr Sir Ray election in May 2022. chief officer at Hillingdon has been a councillor 11 to 18 from across the Puddifoot MBE, the council’s Cllr Edwards has been Council for three years, for his home ward of borough took part in the longest serving leader. a resident of the borough with the responsibility for Eastcote and East Ruislip. Government grant gives UK Youth Parliament's At January’s Full Council since 1982 and is a former developing partnerships The council’s Make Your Mark election, access to jobs and training, meeting, councillors gave police officer, having risen and supporting Cabinet was also the borough a green boost where they got the followed by homelessness. a vote of thanks for Cllr to the position of Borough voluntary and third announced, and chance to vote on a Domestic violence will Puddifoot’s long service to Commander for Richmond sector organisations. includes: The council is benefitting and valuable experience to range of topics that they be one of Hillingdon Youth from a £190,000 kick-start their future careers. feel are important. Council’s key priorities government grant to The team will also clear The ballot, which took for the coming year. provide a programme rivers of invasive species, like place in November 2020, Additionally, Nikita of environmental and floating pennywort, which allowed young people to Khosla (pictured left), community engagement. blocks rivers and canals. vote on 10 local topics. age 15, from Ickenham, The Green Recovery Additionally, the council The ballot results were and a member of the Challenge Fund is designed will use the funding to announced in December Hillingdon Youth Council, to help the natural employ an education and highlighted that young was elected Deputy Chair environment thrive. The and events officer who people across the UK of the London Youth fund is being delivered will mainly work at Ruislip were mostly concerned Assembly in January. by the National Lottery Woods but also at Denham about domestic violence She said: “I am beyond Cllr Ian Edwards Cllr Jonathan Bianco Cllr Martin Goddard Cllr Eddie Lavery Heritage Fund in partnership Woods. The officer will as this topic gained more proud to be representing Leader of the Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member Cabinet Member for with Natural England and oversee a range of green votes than any other issue. Hillingdon as the acting Cabinet Member for for Finance Environment, Housing the Environment Agency. courses, such as charcoal The second most pressing Deputy Chair of the Property and Infrastructure and Regeneration The council and charity making, for young people concern for voters was London Youth Assembly Groundwork South were and adults. They will and will do all in my power jointly awarded the also help to deliver an to ensure the group can money in December. education programme to make positive changes, The grant will be used to Hillingdon schools, called both within our areas, and set up a ‘green team’ in the ‘Classroom in the Woods.’ the wider community.” Colne Valley Regional Park This involves mainly Find out more about consisting of young residents, primary school children Hillingdon Youth Council who will be employed and taking part in environmental by emailing youthcouncil@ trained, which will enable education activities such hillingdon.gov.uk or them to gain qualifications as ‘mini beast hunts.’ calling 07809 230759. Cllr Douglas Mills Cllr Susan O'Brien Cllr Jane Palmer Cllr John Riley Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Corporate Services Families, Education Health and Social Care Public Safety and Transport Libraries host a variety of online activities for Heart Month and Transformation and Wellbeing In February, more than 50 encouraged to take a Later in the month, there and sad - and what they free online events were healthy walk to explore was an interview with could do when they were held at libraries across their nearby surroundings Dr Sarb Johal, a clinical ever feeling down to make the borough to mark and take part in the Mayor psychologist who grew them feel better. They Has your household taken part in Census 2021 yet? National Heart Month. of Hillingdon’s Feel Good up in Hillingdon and now made a colourful art project The council is calling on all with a unique access code get the resources they need Census Support Centres During the month-long Photography Competition lives in New Zealand. His sharing their thoughts with households in Hillingdon to allowing them to complete both now and in the future is (based at three of our adult programme, residents were by sending in photographs new book Steady: Keeping words and drawings. take part in Census 2021. the questionnaire online by ensuring that Hillingdon learning centres: Brookfield, encouraged to improve that inspire happiness. Calm in a World Gone It occurs every 10 years from early March. has a high return rate – so Harlington and South Ruislip, their wellbeing by making Photographs were selected Viral draws on his work and gives the government The information that you please check that someone and at the Civic Centre, small changes, such as taking by the Mayor, Cllr Teji supporting New Zealand's the most accurate estimate provide will be used to help from your household has Uxbridge) – visit www. part in exercise or looking Barnes, and the virtual approach to fighting of all the people and plan and fund public services, completed the census. hillingdon.gov.uk/census after their mental health. exhibition can be viewed COVID-19 and offered households in England and like transport, education and “Remember the census is to book an appointment Activities included by visiting www.hillingdon. day-to-day mental health Wales. It has been carried out healthcare for local people a legal requirement and we and find out more. health-themed stories gov.uk/mayors-competition. advice about beating stress every decade since 1801, so it’s really important that urge as many households Paper copies of the census and craft sessions for The programme and tackling uncertainty. with the exception of 1941. your household takes part. as possible to complete are available upon request, children, light exercise launched with an Explore Other highlights included Census Day takes place Cllr Douglas Mills, it by the end of March.” and copies are also available and coffee mornings. Hillingdon Zoom event, an art workshop for children on Sunday 21 March, Cabinet Member for Residents without in different languages. For Libraries offered new where walkers shared aged between 7 and 10 and all households in the Corporate Services computer access and more information and advice, mindfulness sessions, such ideas of where to explore and their parents and borough should have and Transformation, those who need additional please visit census.gov.uk as yoga and meditation. locally while observing carers. Children discussed received letters from the said: “The only way we can support can visit one of the or call the Census contact Residents were also COVID-19 restrictions. what made them happy Office for National Statistics ensure that our communities council’s four COVID-secure centre on 0800 141 2021.

4 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 5 news news

REVAMPED The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Polish Air Force commemorated More libraries improved Teji Barnes and Cllr Eddie Lavery open the refurbished playground at the Battle of Britain Bunker Renovations to Ickenham areas with plug-in points at Yiewsley Recreation Ground and West Drayton libraries for visitors to use their The council has installed a based at RAF Northolt started last month as part own devices and space new exhibition at the Battle during the Battle of Britain. of the council’s £3 million for other items, such as of Britain Exhibition and There is a large collection investment programme. books. While the desktop Visitor Centre in Uxbridge of photographs donated Improvements to the PCs will benefit from highlighting the vital role of by the family of Leading branches will include new screens, keyboards the Polish Air Force during Aircraftman Tadeusz Kwissa, new-look open plan and computer mice. the Second World War. a member of the ground interiors with distinct zones Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Our Polish Air Force crew, which gives a fascinating that highlight each area’s Cabinet Member exhibition commemorates insight into the members of New bowls clubhouse different use. Both sites for Property and the 80th anniversary of the Polish Air Force based Works were completed in to view matches at an are set to have their walls Infrastructure, said: the Battle of Britain (1940 in Hillingdon working and March on a new clubhouse improved vantage point. painted, existing seating “We know how much to 2020), which involved socialising together. for Harlington Bowls Club Terry Markham, reupholstered, modified our residents enjoy No.303 (Kościuszko) Cllr Susan O’Brien, thanks to a £395,000 Treasurer of Harlington bookshelves to create using our libraries and Squadron – the most Cabinet Member for investment from the council Bowls Club, said: “Our more space and floors we are committed to a successful squadron during Families, Education and The clubhouse, located club was founded in 1945 refurbished, including a programme of library the battle. It was credited Wellbeing, said: “Our in Pinkwell Park, Hayes, and thanks to this generous colourful patterned floor refurbishments to provide with destroying 126 enemy online preview of this originally consisted of a investment by the council the in the children’s libraries. modern facilities for More playgrounds upgraded aircraft in just six weeks. exhibition gives residents small open-sided brick community can enjoy these There will also be new residents of all ages. for young residents to enjoy The council has worked the opportunity to view structure and several sheds. new state-of-the-art facilities meeting rooms and study “This investment will closely with the Polish some of the many resources The outdated facilities for many years to come.” help to future-proof our Three more playgrounds park and like to take my Air Force Memorial on offer at the bunker have now been transformed Cllr Jonathan Bianco, libraries ensuring that across the borough have four young grandchildren Committee to create and we look forward to and replaced with a new, Cabinet Member they continue to serve recently been refurbished there to let off some steam. the new display. Due welcoming back visitors inclusive and fit-for-purpose for Property and Hillingdon residents thanks to the council’s I submitted an application to ongoing COVID-19 to see the full exhibition venue, featuring male and Infrastructure, said: for years to come.” Chrysalis programme. because the play equipment restrictions, the exhibition when restrictions allow. female changing rooms, “We are committed to This work follows the A total investment was not only tired but there will be open to the “We created the display to nappy change facilities, improving leisure facilities completion of refurbishments of £266,900 has seen needed to be more on public once the Battle of give thanks and acknowledge a disabled bathroom, across the borough to at Manor Farm, Oak Farm playgrounds at Parkfield offer for the under-fives. Britain Bunker reopens. the bravery and sacrifices kitchen area, wheelchair ensure that our residents and Hayes End libraries Crescent, Ruislip; Yiewsley “I am delighted with the However, the council made by the men and access and seating area. have access to some of the in January and February. Recreation Ground and improvements and now has created a virtual women who served in the The new clubhouse can best amenities in London. So far, seven libraries Cowley Recreation Ground the park is a place that the preview of the display. Polish Air Force during the also be used all year round “This refurbished have been renovated. modernised and installed whole community, both Many of the items in the Second World War, and for indoor gatherings bowling clubhouse will For more information with a range of new play young and old can enjoy.” exhibition are being shown the exhibition provides and short mat bowls. help more residents to about Hillingdon’s libraries, equipment, colourful Each year, £1 million to the public for the first a fascinating insight into A new external terrace socialise and improve visit www.hillingdon. resurfacing, as well as is spent on Chrysalis time. They include the how they lived, socialised provides additional seating their fitness when outdoor gov.uk/libraries. new bins and benches. projects across the flying helmet of Canadian and fought together.” space for 20 spectators group sport can resume.” The equipment has borough; from buying new Fighter Ace Group Captain View the preview been upgraded to make playground equipment Johnny Kent who was ‘A’ by visiting www. the parks more welcoming to the refurbishment of Flight Commander in No. battleofbritainbunker. Trader fined nearly £40,000 for counterfeit cigarettes and appealing places for community buildings. 303 (Kościuszko) Squadron, co.uk/polish-air-force. At the end of last year, offences relating to selling when trading standards was under his ownership) young residents and their Leader of the Council, the council successfully fake and smuggled tobacco. officers acted on reports was fined £3,582. families to come and enjoy. Cllr Ian Edwards, said: prosecuted a former West Singh, the former owner of illegal activity. Two Cllr John Riley, Cabinet All three parks now benefit “Our Chrysalis programme Drayton trader who hid of Falling Lane Superstore, undercover test purchase Member for Public from a wide range of new gives residents the more than 60,000 counterfeit West Drayton, hid most operations confirmed the Safety and Transport, outdoor equipment for opportunity to tell us and smuggled cigarettes in of the cigarettes in his flat business was supplying said: “Hillingdon Council children of all ages, a new where they would like see a flat above his off-licence. above the shop. In total, smuggled cigarettes, is committed to cracking wheelchair accessible improvements on council- On Friday 4 December 60,424 cigarettes and 19.8 which were being sold down on the illegal tobacco roundabout, and they owned land within their local 2020 at Harrow Crown kilograms of hand rolling for only £5 per pack. trade in the borough. feature interactive play neighbourhoods. These Court, Inderjit Singh, aged tobacco were seized Following the seizure “Not only do counterfeit activity panels to help three playgrounds were in 57, from West Drayton following the execution of a of goods, the council cigarettes put residents’ children learn and develop. need of an upgrade and was ordered to pay back search warrant at the shop revoked the alcohol safety at risk, but their sale Yiewsley resident and I am pleased that families £39,070.27 under the and flat in August 2018. licence for the business is unfair on the majority of local Street Champion, can now enjoy brand new Proceeds of Crime Act The haul had a street and Singh was removed businesses who operate Jacqui Szurgot, applied to play equipment following and carry out 80 hours of value of £39,070.27 - as the designated premise legitimately in the borough. the Chrysalis programme to the refurbishment works.” unpaid work following a the amount Singh was supervisor. The shop is “If you suspect that a recommend improvements To suggest an trading standards operation ordered to pay back under now under new ownership. trader is operating illegally for the playground at improvement via the which uncovered the a confiscation order. Singh was also ordered or selling counterfeit goods, Yiewsley Recreation Ground. programme, visit www. substantial haul. Singh Singh first came on the to pay costs of £5,000 email tradingstandards@ She said: “I live near the hillingdon.gov.uk/chrysalis. had pleaded guilty to 10 council's radar in April 2018 and his business (when it hillingdon.gov.uk.”

6 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 7 regeneration budget Hayes cinema plans move Investing in the future and a step closer continuing to put residents first The council approved its annual budget on Thursday 25 February, confirming that the services and award-winning facilities residents value will be maintained in 2021/22. strong record of sound financial increase in the precept imposed Highlights of the budget include: management ensures that by the Mayor of London. • £29 million for a new leisure AHillingdon’s frontline services In effect, the total increase for centre and community are protected and also means the a Band D property is 5.8 per facilities in West Drayton council is able to maintain free-to-use cent – or £1.70 per week. • Significant funding to maintain local weekly waste and recycling collections For the first time in 14 years, due highways - £30 million over five years and the high standards of the to the challenges of the pandemic, • £20.8 million towards the borough’s award-winning parks and council tax will not be frozen for those council’s ongoing school building open spaces for local people to enjoy. aged over 65 as the older persons and expansion programme There will also be further investment discount scheme will not be applied • £177.5 million for increased housing in leisure facilities, new school places, in 2021/22. However, the council will across the borough which includes a road and pavement resurfacing protect the existing discounts for those £31.4 million investment in Hillingdon and town centre improvements to already in receipt of this discount and First Limited to deliver new homes Plans for a new four-screen cinema complex In September 2016, the Global support our local high streets. a safety net is also in place for the most • £70 million for improvements in the centre of Hayes moved forward Academy opened on Record Walk The council tax rise will once financially vulnerable residents through to existing housing stock for Year 10 to Year 13 students again be set at 90 per cent of our the Council Tax Reduction Scheme. • £22.5 million for equipment and when revised proposals were given the specialising in the broadcast neighbouring boroughs', with a For Hillingdon residents, fees adaptations for social care clients to go ahead by the council in January. and digital media industry. small increase of 1.8 per cent. and charges on services provided help to improve their independence The Nest is a multi-use centre Additionally, due to the exceptional by the council, including parking • £3.9 million on town centre nown as The Gramophone, the finalising our plans for The Old Vinyl based in The Material Store which pressures on social care due to the charges, will remain at least 10 per improvements across the borough to new complex will be located on Factory and resuming our outreach opened in October 2019 and pandemic, the government has, for cent lower than those charged boost local businesses and high streets Kthe site of the original pressing and engagement work to share these includes a climbing wall, gym, one year, allowed councils to levy by neighbouring boroughs. plant (formerly Apollo House) at The developments with the local community. meeting facilities and coffee shop. up to 3 per cent (an increase of 1 As part of the budget, £10 million Old Vinyl Factory (TOVF) in Blyth Road. “The Gramophone is a key Regeneration specialists U+I expect per cent) as a Social Care Precept. has been set aside as a contingency Cllr Martin Goddard, Steeped in history, the TOVF site is component of The Old Vinyl to be able to deliver 642 homes, a Residents’ bills will also reflect should government grants not be Cabinet Member for an 18-acre former EMI record plant Factory and this unique and special new public square with shops, bars an additional 1 per cent increase sufficient to alleviate the funding Finance, said: “Despite the where records by iconic bands such venue will bring many economic and cafés and more than 70,000 as a result of the 9.5 per cent pressures created by COVID-19. many challenges arising from the as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and social benefits to the area.” square metres of commercial space pandemic, in Hillingdon, thanks and Pink Floyd were pressed. The TOVF site was originally across the TOVF site by 2022. to our strong record of sound Highlights of the revised plans include constructed between 1907 and 1935 Budget in numbers Childrens financial management, we are increasing the number of cinema screens by the Gramophone Company and The council delivers nearly 800 social care able to continue to put residents Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet from three to four with additional was later the production centre of EMI services. These are funded through first as we set out our budget Member for Environment, floorspace of approximately 205 square Ltd, producing the majority of vinyl a combination of grants from for the coming year. Housing and Regeneration, metres, as well as the installation of two records for distribution worldwide. central government, a share of local Adult social care “Where other authorities may recording studios, music mixing facilities Associated record production works said: “The regeneration of the business rates and your council tax. be in a more precarious position, and a café/lounge with karaoke booths had ceased by the 1980s after which iconic Old Vinyl Factory site will this administration’s careful on the second floor. The latest proposals time the site was largely vacant with help to revitalise Hayes by ighways roads financial planning has ensured also include an exhibition which will many buildings falling into disrepair bringing new jobs, homes and and transport services that we can keep council tax rises promote the site’s historical context. until its redevelopment began. leisure opportunities to the area. to 90 per cent of the increase of The revised proposals were The council granted planning “It once again demonstrates the our neighbouring boroughs' approved on the condition that permission for the TOVF masterplan confidence investors have that while continuing to invest in the previously approved works also form (a blueprint to help guide the Hillingdon is a destination in ousing services services and facilities that we part of the overall development. development of the site) in April which to do business. High know our residents and These include a health centre; bar, 2013 and several residential, quality developments such as this Capital financing costs businesses value, as well as restaurant and exhibition facilities, commercial and educational buildings will be crucial in helping our local supporting the borough’s and a mix of 46 one-bed, 31 two- have already completed on the site. economy to thrive following the In 2021/22: recovery from COVID-19.” bed and 4 three-bed homes. The Shipping Building has been COVID-19 pandemic.” • council tax (54 per cent) ducation Works on The Gramophone are significantly remodelled to provide expected to start later this year. high-spec office space. It is also home • business rates (23 per cent) Cultural environmental For more information about the site, • central government grants and planning services For details on council tax Alex Macaulay, Development to the Central Research Laboratory icl a a rccli cllci Director of Really Local Group, which provides support for new visit www.theoldvinylfactory.com (22 per cent) r clai lirari har a and how to pay, visit said: “We are looking forward to start-ups and entrepreneurs. i • use of reserves (1 per cent) lici a aicial hair www.hillingdon.gov.uk/counciltax i

8 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 9 older people older people Keeping residents safe in their homes with emergency help at the press of a button The council’s TeleCareLine service enables more than 6,780 Hillingdon residents to live independently at home by providing users, their carers, family members and friends with the peace of mind that emergency support is always available.

eleCareLine’s 24-hour monitoring and alert system Tworks by linking alarms, sensors and equipment in the home to an adviser in the TeleCareLine monitoring centre, which is staffed every day of the year. All alarms and sensors are linked to a lifeline base unit, which is installed in the home and linked to the telephone system. When pressed or triggered, a signal is sent from the house to the monitoring centre via the telephone system. When a call is received at the centre, trained officers will speak with the resident through A further range of enhanced going to bed at night and the lifeline unit to ascertain the equipment is available to support getting up times in the morning. nature of the emergency and people with memory loss and can be This means if the person gets take steps to support them. adapted to meet individual needs. out of bed during this period If the officer is unable to speak Additional equipment can include: and does not return within a with them, they will call a friend or • A carbon monoxide detector set time, an alert is received Monica’s story family member (a named responder) can be installed in properties at the monitoring centre. The Monica is 87 and lives alone. She for some time and I was always or the mobile response service. that have old heating systems person will then be contacted applied for the TeleCareLine reluctant to accept it. However, I Leader of the Council and The mobile response service is a and appliances that are at risk of to check on their wellbeing. service after she had a fall at finally agreed and I’m now so grateful Older People's Champion, team of dedicated carers who are emitting carbon monoxide. This is • A falls detection alarm will home and lost her confidence. for the service. I don’t know how I Cllr Ian Edwards, said: on standby 24 hours a day. They able to pick up any early indications be raised if a fall is detected A TeleCareLine standard package would have managed without it.” “TeleCareLine is a valuable will carry out a welfare check if an of carbon monoxide leaks. in the home, even if the was installed, and the technician Monica says her confidence has service which enables older alarm or sensor is triggered. In an • A heat sensor can be fitted, individual is unable to press demonstrated the equipment grown because of TeleCareLine and residents across the borough to emergency, the monitoring centre normally in the kitchen, and will their personal alarm button. and gave Monica time to carry she is able to carry on with her everyday live independently in their officer will call the ambulance, fire alert the monitoring centre if there • A property exit sensor can out test calls to enable her to feel life in the knowledge that help is homes. The service played a key brigade and/or police, if appropriate. is a rapid rise in temperature, be placed on the door and if the confident using the service. available at the touch of a button. role in alleviating the worries of The standard TeleCareLine package indicating a possible fire due to door is opened during the night Unfortunately, Monica had a fall friends and family during the consists of a lifeline unit (which is burning food while cooking. an alert is sent to the monitoring in the garden, resulting in an injury past year where residents were connected to your landline phone), • A bed monitor can be placed centre where officers on duty can to her face and heavy bleeding. separated because of the personal trigger (worn either around under the mattress and timed encourage the person to remain She activated an alert from her ongoing pandemic. If you think the neck or on the wrist), smoke parameters set between normal inside and go back to bed. pendant and the monitoring that TeleCareLine could help detector and bogus caller button. centre officer called an ambulance you, or someone you know, I A smoke detector would send Choosing the right service for you and her son. Monica was taken to encourage you to contact us to an alert if smoke is detected in There are four different services anyone requiring hospital for further treatment and find out more or request an the person's home. Subsequently, available, with a monthly cost the level three or was discharged the same day. assessment.” the monitoring centre will then ranging from £1.13 to £12 per week, four service will Monica’s son called the monitoring attempt to make contact with the depending on the level of support require a social centre to thank the staff and express person to ensure the alert was needed. All four services are free to care assessment his gratitude for all the help provided. For more information or to not triggered due to an incident Hillingdon residents aged 75 and over. to determine He said: “The service is brilliant.” request an assessment, visit such as burning toast, before Everyone signed up to TeleCareLine the appropriate Monica said: “My family have been www.hillingdon.gov.uk/telecareline i contacting the fire brigade. will have a screening assessment and sensors for their needs. encouraging me to have the service or call 01895 556633

10 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 11 environment environment

Get growing for Get involved in this year's the Autumn Show Now in its eighth year, our Hillingdon in Bloom and Autumn Show celebrates horticultural excellence. Residents can enter their own Autumn Show competitions produce for free in a range of classes, including vegetables, fruit, jams, chutneys, flowers, and arts and crafts for With spring on its way and National Gardening a chance to win garden centre vouchers. Week taking place next month, why not get The competition also opens for entries on Monday 26 April to outdoors and into your gardens in preparation coincide with National Gardening Week. The closing date for for our horticultural competitions? applications is Friday 17 September, and this year’s show will be held at The Great Barn, Ruislip on Saturday Hillingdon in Bloom 2 October (COVID-19 dependent). Find out more, including a full list of categories and how to enter, by visiting i www.hillingdon.gov.uk/autumnshow

Hillingdon in Bloom categories • Best first-time entrant • Best window box Cllr Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Boxes must be on, or attached to, Member for Families, the house windowsill and not a Education and Wellbeing, free-standing container. said: “I am delighted that our much-loved Hillingdon in Bloom • Best rainbow display and Autumn Show competitions • Best hanging basket will return this year. I would like to encourage residents of all ages • Best display on an open and abilities to get gardening and fronted balcony join in the fun by applying to take Our free-to-enter Hillingdon in winners receiving a certificate and • Best residential garden part. I am looking forward to Bloom competition is returning next gardening centre gift vouchers. seeing all of your submissions • Roome Cup month in a digitally focused format. Last year, the council introduced and the colourful displays across The garden that is judged to be As a result of the ongoing two new categories. A ‘best rainbow the borough once they are in making the greatest contribution pandemic and the success of last display’ category was launched bloom later this year.” year’s virtual competition - with in recognition of Hillingdon’s key to wildlife conservation. more people entering than ever workers, and a ‘park and bloom’ • Park and bloom before - the application and judging category encourages residents Front garden with plants and process for our annual horticultural to include plants and flowers in room for a car. competition will once again take their front gardens alongside their place virtually, allowing residents, cars to tackle a rise in vanishing • Best display (including businesses, community groups and front gardens which has a harmful novelty display) schools from across the borough to impact on the local environment. For an exhibit within a garden More flower verges set to bloom submit their photo entries online. These will both return for 2021 that incorporates temporary In October 2020, British annual encourage more pollinators to the Through Hillingdon in Bloom, alongside regular categories such planting and/or garden flowers, as well as flowering species areas, such as bees and butterflies. the council hopes to encourage as ‘best hanging basket’, ‘best ornaments and structures. from other regions, were planted Road verges can be vital habitats residents to maintain their fitness balcony’, ‘best window box’ and alongside roads at 30 locations for wildlife, plants and animals. by keeping active outdoors ‘best first-time entrant’ (see right). across Hillingdon following the The planting also reduces the and learn new gardening skills. The competition opens for success of the council’s flower use of diesel mowers which can be In turn, the competition keeps entries on Monday 26 April planting initiative the previous year. harmful to the environment and the borough looking green and to coincide with National For more information and The flowers add a splash of colour lowers the cost of maintenance. colourful, and residents may be Gardening Week. The deadline details on how to enter, visit to the borough once they’re in bloom All of the borough’s 22 wards rewarded for their efforts, with for applications is Friday 30 July. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bloom i between April and July, and they also have at least one flower verge.

12 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 13 fostering fostering Make a difference... to a young person’s life The council is launching a new fostering campaign to inspire local people to make a difference to the lives of children and young people. We met a foster carer who uses his music skills to mentor teenagers, and a young man whose life he has helped to turn around.

aren Carrington, from Uxbridge, have the biggest impact on influencing has been fostering young people their choices. It was a big eye-opener, Dfor nine years. Despite his but as a single carer I just did exactly successful career as a music producer what my mum did for me as she was under the alias name ‘Major’, working a single mum, and it’s been the most Gildo practising with the likes of Amy Winehouse, rewarding thing I’ve ever done. his football skills Ciara and Soul II Soul, Daren credits “After my first year, two brothers his work as a foster carer as his most came to stay with me on a two-week mentoring tool as it speaks a universal important and rewarding achievement. placement, but they wanted to stay language, and just making music and Daren said: “There was a rise in long-term and I just loved them so jamming helps to calm their mood. knife crime in the UK at the time, and much. They’ve now been with me When I’ve fostered kids who don’t I felt I had the right skills to mentor for eight years. They were moved speak English, they can pick up on the Daren and Gildo young people and guide them in the around a lot, so melody and the right direction. I contacted the council when they came to mood of music staff as they would “I had no-one to enquire about mentoring but me they needed “If you're thinking about and get involved.” change each “For me - physically when I moved Cllr Jane Palmer, Cabinet when the social worker visited, she stability. I set fostering - do it. You might But perhaps day. When I met seeing a change in to the UK, but Member for Health and Social Care, thought I’d make a great foster carer. clear boundaries change someone's life.” Daren has had the Daren, it made Daren gave me a said: “Our someone’s life beats dedicated foster carers devote I was still touring with bands and from day one biggest impact me feel 10 times selling records any day.” family. His mum working in my recording studio, so and they are on Gildo, who better having became my their time, love and support to I wanted to make sure fostering was such good boys. I’m so proud of has been living with him long-term. just one person grandma, his sister make the most incredible the right fit for me and my lifestyle. them both, with one in sixth form He said: “My eldest is now 22 and take care of me, and he has great became my aunt, the boys are my difference to the lives of young “When I started fostering it was and the other studying at college.” he is what I can only describe as the banter with young people. brothers. I can talk to him about people in need. not what I expected at all! It was an Daren’s role as music producer has perfect son. He arrived in the UK “Daren helped me to translate and anything and back then he was like a “Fostering is one of the most experience and in the first year I’d cared often helped him to connect with from Angola, aged 15, having never communicate, helping with things dad to me - but now that I’m older rewarding things you can do for 40 or so kids from all over the world the young people he cares for. He met his birth parents and was forced like doctor’s appointments and he’s more like my best friend.” and is a great way to give back including Afghanistan, Australia, the said: “Music is so powerful and when to live on the streets. He was exposed speaking to teachers. Living with So, what would Gildo say to anyone to the community. We’re looking US and Iraq. I chose to help children the kids walk into my house and to criminal behaviour and could have the other two boys was great, like who is thinking about fostering for kind-hearted foster carers over the age of 10 as this is a key time see the recording studio they are gone down a very damaging road. having two little brothers, and it was a teenager? He said: “If you’re like Daren to help guide a child in their development and I felt I could always fascinated. Music is an amazing “When he first came to stay, I put much easier to pick up the language thinking about fostering – do it. or teenager along the right path. on a barbeque to welcome him but in a house full of people speaking You might change someone’s life.” If you think you could make a he couldn’t speak English and went English. It was also really cool having Daren added: “Do it from the difference to a young person’s straight up to his room. Within a a recording studio in the house!” heart and you can’t go wrong. It’s life, please contact our fostering year he was speaking fluent English, Seven years on, Gildo is now in his challenging as these kids have been team today.” doing well at school and he is now second year at university studying through so much due to the situations studying for his degree. He’s the Criminology and Psychology and they may have been exposed to, funniest guy and now we can’t shut is a semi-professional footballer for but you’ll never be doing it alone. him up! I helped guide him along Egham Town. He said: “Daren used We have a team of foster carers who the right path and he learnt quickly to take me to football training at help and support each other and and now he’s turned his life around.” Hillingdon Abbots Football Club there are loads of training courses Gildo was moved into a children’s where I was scouted by QPR, and I you can do. By fostering a young home at the age of 15 for a few trained there for four years. Daren has person - you can really change months before he was placed with helped me every step of the way and their life, help them to achieve For more information on fostering, Daren in foster care. He said: “Living I’d love to sign professional once I’ve and show them the right path. visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ with other children who also didn’t got my degree. He helps me when “For me - physically seeing a fostering, call 0800 783 1298 i speak any English was difficult, and clubs make offers and he still tells me change in someone’s life beats or email fosteringrecruitment@ Daren at work in his recording studio it was hard to communicate with the to do my work even though I’m 22! selling records any day.” hillingdon.gov.uk

14 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 15 recycling recycling

Benefits of reducing your food waste Save the planet and money by Reducing food waste isn’t just good ‘Best before’ dates are more flexible for our planet and learning to love than the use by date. Sometimes your leftovers can save you money shown as BBE (best before end), it is reducing your household food waste too. Approximately 6.5 million about quality and not safety. Foods tonnes of food is thrown away by such as dried beans, lentils and pasta households in the UK every year - will be safe to eat after this date, In Hillingdon, 44 per cent of general waste is made up of food most of it could have been eaten. although their quality may have waste. Recycling food waste is free and easy to do, and Hillingdon Food Waste Action Week might decreased (for example, changes in be over, but we are still inviting you flavour, colour, texture). People takes a look at the reasons why you should recycle your to love food, and hate waste. Across Avoiding serving too much Hillingdon, 28,000 households have food waste and shares tips on how to love your leftovers. Correct portion control from purchase, already signed up to our food waste through to cooking and serving, helps service. Join them today and reduce to reduce the amount of food waste ood Waste Action Week, a national and recycle your food waste by: produced. If you have leftovers, you awareness raising initiative about Sarah Browne, from Ruislip, Using what you have can use them up for lunch the next day, the environmental consequences said: “Since last March, we've been F Create a list of the food that you have or even freeze for later. of wasting food, took place from in your cupboards, fridge and freezer. trying to cook more and eat as Monday 1 March to Sunday 7 March. You may discover items that you had Repurposing your food waste much fresh food as we can. We’re Composting is a great way to In total, approximately 6.5 million forgotten about and can make a tasty also trying to find ways to minimise repurpose your unavoidable food tonnes of food is wasted in the UK meal from. food waste because we can’t just each year, of which 70 per cent is waste. Vegetable peelings, fruit skins pop to the shops at the moment. edible and could have been eaten. Meal planning and cores, and other food waste items Vegetable curry is a great way to use Disposing of food waste with Shopping smart can be placed into your compost bin, up items that are on the turn and general household waste is also Before you do your shopping, check as well as green waste such as grass the children love all the chopping. 12 times more expensive than what you already have. cuttings. Request a free compost bin “Recycling food waste makes when it is disposed separately. for your garden by calling our Contact our family more aware of exactly We all can do more to give Only buying what you need Centre on 01895 556000. how much we’re throwing away food waste another lease of life tonnes of harmful emissions a year. place the tied bag in your outdoor Remember, it’s only a deal if you really and helps us to waste less.” and tackle climate change. This is enough to power the electricity caddy. Then remember to put your need it and can use up the fresh food Louis Browne (pictured above If we avoid producing food of 372,473 homes for one year. outdoor caddy at the edge of your in time. If you feel like you want to get right) aged 9, said: “I like chopping that we don’t eat, we can save the If you live in a house, recycling property for collection before 6am a ‘buy one, get one free’ offer, you the vegetables' heads off.” Shae land, water and energy that would food waste is easy to do by using on your usual collection day. could freeze the extra fresh items, and Browne (pictured above left) have been used to make it. the council’s food waste collection By separating food waste from donate the extra food cupboard aged 7, added: “I like putting the Did you know that food waste can service. A 5-litre kitchen caddy, your general waste you are also items to a local food bank. vegetable ends in the food waste bin.” be recycled into renewable energy compostable bags and outdoor helping to keep our streets clean Understanding ‘use by’ vs to generate electricity, fuel transport caddy are supplied for free when by reducing the chances of foxes ‘best before’ dates and create fertiliser for farmers? you sign-up for this service online. and other vermin tearing open your The ‘use by’ date on packaged food Visit www.food.gov.uk to find out Also, if each west London household All you need to do is put a black bags looking for food, as our tell us when it is still safe to eat the more about reducing food waste, and recycled just two kilograms of food compostable bag into your indoor outdoor food waste caddies are product. Eating food past the ‘use by’ for money saving recipes and other i waste per week, it would save 600,000 kitchen caddy, and when it’s full simply also equipped with a click lock lid. date can be harmful to your health. tips, visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Changes to your food waste collection Free sharps Food waste collections take place every fed back to the National Grid, helping Cllr Eddie Lavery, Cabinet collection service week. In the coming weeks, you may to supply homes and businesses Member for Environment, If you need to dispose of needles, notice our new food waste vehicles with clean, renewable energy. The Housing and Regeneration, syringes, lancets and needle clippers – which will collect your food waste leftover material is used as a high- said: “Nearly half of the borough’s please do not contaminate your separately to garden waste. Food waste quality fertiliser for agricultural land. food waste currently ends up in general waste and recycling. can no longer be mixed with garden If you are one of the growing number general waste. By making small It is vital that these are disposed of waste (apart from home composting). of Hillingdon residents who are recycling changes to the way we all think correctly to prevent injury to yourself, While garden waste will continue their food waste – thank you! Why not about food waste and by using members of your household and to be composted in Harefield, check out our website www.hillingdon. the council’s easy-to-use food our crew collecting your waste. food waste will first be stored and gov.uk/food-waste for tips on how waste recycling service you can Sharps boxes are available from then transported in bulk to Surrey to get the most out of this service? help us to make a real difference. your GP or pharmacy in a variety of for recycling via a process called We haven’t introduced this service to “I encourage those who haven’t sizes, depending on your needs. anaerobic digestion. Here the food flats just yet but it’s something the council yet signed up for this service to To book a monthly or one- waste is broken down in a series of is working hard to introduce in the future. request their free caddies today off collection of your full sharps temperature-controlled tanks to and play their part in helping to box(es), call us on 01895 556000 speed up the digestion process. Sign up for food waste make our borough greener.” (sharps boxes are no longer The bio-methane gases produced recycling today by visiting accepted for disposal by GPs, are used to generate electricity which is www.hillingdon.gov.uk/recycling i pharmacies or hospitals).

16 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 17 coronavirus Working together to

The council continues to focus its efforts on supporting residents, local businesses and community groups during these challenging times to help slow down the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

n Monday 22 February, the government unveiled its Testing for residents who Oroadmap out of lockdown do not have symptoms and we will continue to support Free rapid tests are available at local communities as we slowly and seven sites across the borough safely start to reopen society. (Hayes, Harlington, Harefield, However, even those who have Uxbridge, Northwood, Sipson been vaccinated must continue and South Ruislip) for anyone not to follow the national guidelines showing COVID-19 symptoms. and not overlook the basics at this As many as one in three people who crucial point in the COVID-19 have COVID-19 show no symptoms but battle, so please remember ‘Hands- could be passing the virus on to others. Face-Space’, and at the first sign Testing those who do not have of COVID-19 symptoms, please symptoms enables those who test self-isolate and get tested. positive, and their contacts, to self- For more information on the latest isolate, which can help to drive down restrictions in Hillingdon, please visit transmission locally and save lives. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/coronavirus. The rapid testing process is simple – all you need to do is book an appointment, attend one of the leave your home for work even Testing for residents seven testing sites and self-swab, if you have been vaccinated. with symptoms and and results are often provided Do not make an appointment for self-isolation guidance within an hour (sometimes they this test if you have any COVID-19 If you have any COVID-19 symptoms can take up to 24 hours). Specially symptoms (a new, continuous cough, (a new, continuous cough, high trained staff are on hand to help you high temperature or change in your temperature, or loss or change to through all parts of the process. sense of smell/taste) or if you have sense of smell or taste) it is vital All sites are open Monday to received a positive COVID-19 that you self-isolate immediately Friday, with some open Saturdays result within the last 90 days. and book a test by visiting the and up to 8pm, to enable as many Peggy O’Neil (pictured above), government website or calling 119. people as possible to get tested. aged 60, from Eastcote, regularly You must book an appointment visits the South Ruislip testing site. You must not leave your home in advance and one appointment She said: “I come once a week to except to get a COVID-19 test if: must be booked per person. For have a COVID-19 test to protect my • you have COVID-19 symptoms those without digital access, tests can mother who is 97 as I care for her. • you have tested positive be booked by calling the council’s “It gives me piece of mind to for COVID-19 Community Hub on 020 3949 5786. know that it’s safe for me to look • you have been instructed to self- You should continue to have after her because she is vulnerable isolate by NHS Test and Trace. regular testing if you need to and I want her to live past 100.” Santokh Rahul, lives in Slough While you are self-isolating you must not: but works in South Ruislip, he • go to work said: “I think it is extremely important • go shopping to get tested not just for yourself • go out for exercise but for your loved ones. This virus • meet with friends or family. has no favouritism it will attack and kill and there’s only one simple Book a COVID-19 test by visiting message – get yourself tested and www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test. look after your loved ones.” To book a test, please visit www. hillingdon.gov.uk/community-testing.

March/April 2021 19 coronavirus coronavirus

Since the first lockdown Sites across Hillingdon have carried out 22,109 Supporting schools education provision and provide in March 2020... tests for residents without COVID-19 symptoms The council is working closely additional support and guidance. with the borough’s primary and During lockdown children received secondary schools to support a mix of remote and face-to-face Staff and volunteers referred 1,280 768 free emergency parking permits were issued them through the pandemic. learning (for vulnerable and critical residents to food banks and online supermarket slots All schools have access to a council worker children). Schools provided link officer who acts as a central point a mixture of remote learning We contacted 19,997 Borrowing of of contact for COVID-19 queries to provision from live lessons, to pre- residents who were e-books and ensure they are able to follow the recorded lessons and worksheets. shielding or at risk e-audiobooks latest government guidance to help Schools continued to provide from our online keep their schools safe. Education eligible children with Free School Meals libraries advisors are also on hand to support support for those attending schools or We continued to deliver all waste and recycling services and increased by headteachers with maintaining learning from home during term-time. collected more than 87,000 tonnes of waste and recycling 85% (March to December 2020) Contact tracing service Need support? introduced in Hillingdon The council’s Community Hub is Supporting businesses We have connected We continue to support the national available to signpost residents to We are providing a range of We delivered with a network of more than 100 contact tracing effort by using our a range of help, including financial targeted support and guidance to local community, faith and voluntary local knowledge to successfully advice and support, emotional businesses throughout the pandemic, 1,505 sector groups trace hard-to-reach individuals. wellbeing and befriending services, ensuring that financial assistance is emergency food In November, the council priority online shopping slots, and parcels to given to those who are eligible. The council’s COVID-19 Community Hub introduced a COVID-19 contact local food bank referrals for those In light of the most recent residents at risk tracing service in support of the NHS. who meet eligibility criteria. lockdown, further grant schemes were referred 1,386 vulnerable people The scheme sees NHS Test and Trace It is open from Monday made available by the government. to social services for extra help pass details to the service of residents to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and So far, we have paid out £10.1 All of our 200+ parks and who have tested positive for the virus, can be contacted via email at million of the new Local Restrictions green spaces have remained open 3,200 local businesses received but who they have been unable to [email protected] Support Grant and are working support grants totalling more than contact. The team makes contact with or by calling 020 3949 5786. through the outstanding applications these residents either by text, phone If you receive a positive COVID-19 as quickly as we can, as we realise or email to enable them to capture test result or you are told by NHS We supported care homes how important this support is 47 information about their activities in Test and Trace to self-isolate because Cllr Martin Goddard, and schools £52,000,000 to businesses at this time. 103 the days prior to their positive result. of close contact with someone Cabinet Member for Visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ If they are unable to speak with who has COVID-19, you may Finance, said: “We know that COVID-19 has impacted local-business-grants for more Our finance team received more than the resident, officers will make a be eligible for a Test and Trace information and updates. socially-distanced face-to-face Support payment if you are on a low residents financially, and we have Workplaces that are currently 135,000 enquiries about visit to the address provided. income and you cannot work from been working hard to support allowed to stay open should be financial assistance and advice Since the service started on Wednesday home while you are self-isolating. those most at risk and ensure that following COVID-19 secure guidelines 11 November, more than 2,271 residents Visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ help quickly gets to those who to keep customers, visitors and workers have been successfully contacted. community-support or call the need it most.” safe. If you have any concerns about Our trading standards Community Hub on 020 3949 5786 1,637 team seized a Hillingdon business being open or residents enrolled on to find out more. not operating in a COVID-19 secure our online adult learning 8,000 items of fake way, email COVID19hub@hillingdon. courses hand sanitiser and detained gov.uk or call 020 3949 5786. Look after your mental COVID-19 winter grants 13.5 million health and wellbeing continue to be rolled out non-compliant PPE masks Coronavirus has disrupted our lives We continue to co-ordinate the in ways we couldn’t have imagined government-funded COVID-19 before. While things might feel Winter Grant Scheme to support Helping residents to shop safely and raising awareness hard right now it’s important to vulnerable households and families The council introduced COVID-19 comply with COVID-19 public health remember that this situation won’t with children particularly affected marshals in November to assist measures such as social distancing, using last forever and support is available. by the pandemic during the school the public as part of an ongoing face coverings and hand washing. If you’re lonely, struggling with holidays in the winter period. effort to slow the spread of Since January, licensing and change, have money or job worries Physical and mental health go The initiative runs until the end of coronavirus and remind residents environmental health and regulatory or are finding that staying at home is hand in hand. Loads of the things March and provides Hillingdon families and businesses what actions are officers have carried out more than affecting your wellbeing, Public Health you do for your body, like getting with funds to help meet the cost of food, needed to help keep everyone safe. 2,109 visits to businesses across the England’s Better Health – Every Mind active or eating better, will boost energy and water bills. To date, more than The marshals have been busy borough to ensure they are COVID Matters campaign has a range of your mental wellbeing too – and 2,500 eligible households have received patrolling areas throughout the borough compliant, and 166 warnings have been caught flouting regulations. resources, expert advice and practical Public Health England’s Better a payment towards the cost of their to help drive down infection rates by issued for breaches of regulations. Should any fines go unpaid, tips to support your mental health Health campaign has the tools, utility bills and more than 8,500 eligible raising awareness of the government So far this year, the council has businesses may be taken to court, and and wellbeing. It also has information advice and support to help you. children have received food vouchers. restrictions in place. They have also issued fines totalling £46,000 to the council has the power to close on how you can support children Find out more by visiting www. been explaining how the public should businesses that were repeatedly premises for serious COVID-19 failures. and young people at this time. nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters.

20 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 21 coronavirus coronavirus

Please be alert to scams Be aware that the NHS will: Protect yourself and your • never ask for payment – the vaccine is free and only available through the NHS community by taking the • never ask for bank details • never arrive at your home unannounced to COVID-19 vaccine provide the vaccine • never ask you to prove your identity by asking you to send Since the beginning of the year, Hillingdon’s documents like your passport. vaccination programme has continued to who get vaccinated the better it is Frequently asked questions for this country and the world.” Can you get COVID-19 after gather pace and provides much-needed Dr Ghassan Al Jaboury (pictured having the vaccine? hope for a return to normality. above), a GP from HESA Medical The first dose of the vaccine should Centre in Hayes, said: “The COVID-19 give you good protection from pandemic has affected everyone this year. COVID-19 but you need to have the Leader of the Council, Cllr he COVID-19 vaccination It is being offered at vaccination This is why it is of utmost importance to two doses to give you longer lasting Ian Edwards, said: “When the programme is being delivered centres, pharmacies and some get yourself and your family vaccinated protection. Even if you have been NHS offers you your vaccination, Tby the NHS. The council is local NHS services such as and encourage your friends and vaccinated, you could still become I encourage you to receive it as supporting health partners and the hospitals or GP surgeries. loved ones to have the vaccine. mildly infected. The vaccines prevent soon as possible. It is safe and rollout by sharing NHS information Reports of serious side effects, Edward Small, 77 and Daisy “We can control this pandemic/disease severe disease, not infection, so effective, it gives you the best and messaging to ensure that such as allergic reactions, have Small, 71, (pictured above) better when we are all vaccinated.” you could still carry the virus and protection against coronavirus, residents are well informed. been very rare. No long-term from Hayes, said: “Myself and my unknowingly pass it on to others. If you and it offers the best hope of us The vaccine is being offered to complications have been reported. wife were initially reluctant to be Sign up to become a are going to work please get tested returning to some level of people most at risk in order of priority You should continue to follow the vaccinated but were persuaded by Community Champion regularly and follow the government normality soon. (see below). You will be notified when government guidelines of ‘Hands- our daughter who works for the NHS. The council is working with H4All guidelines of ‘Hands-Face-Space'. “While vaccinations progress, it’s your turn for a vaccination. If you Face-Space’ after vaccination to avoid “The vaccination process was very (a collaboration of local charities) to we are asking everyone, haven’t heard anything yet please infection and further transmission. straightforward and well-organised. I deliver a Community Champions What are the side effects? whether they’ve had the vaccine don’t worry and please do not contact When it’s your turn, you are strongly advise people of all ages and scheme to support those most at Most side effects are mild and yet or not, to keep following the the NHS to ask for the vaccine. encouraged to take the vaccine. races to listen to the doctors and take risk from COVID-19 and boost should not last longer than a government’s guidance to stop The vaccine, like all vaccines in the By doing so, you will be helping the vaccine when they are offered it. vaccine take-up by providing advice week, such as a sore arm where the spread of the virus. UK, has been approved for use after to keep your family, friends and It’s the right thing to do to ensure we’re as well as tackling misinformation. the needle went in, feeling tired, a “I also encourage residents meeting the strict standards of safety, the Hillingdon community safe. all protected. We’re looking forward The council has already built a headache, feeling achy. You can take – particularly those who need quality and effectiveness set out by the More information on the vaccine to celebrating our 50th wedding strong network of community, faith painkillers, such as paracetamol. to leave home for work – to get Medicines and Healthcare products can be found at www.nhs.uk. anniversary as a family in June.” and voluntary sector groups since tested regularly for the virus Regulatory Agency. It is given as an Dr Amutha Sukanthan Alykhan Kassam (pictured the start of the pandemic, working Does the vaccine contain at one of our testing sites for injection into your upper arm, and you (pictured below), a GP from below), aged 32, from South closely with health partners. The any animal products (such people who are not showing will receive two doses, with each given HESA Medical Centre in Hayes, Ruislip, said: “Staff were very Community Champions scheme will as gelatine) or egg? any COVID-19 symptoms.” approximately 11 to 12 weeks apart. said: “I have been managing patients reassuring and helpful in answering further strengthen this by working with The COVID-19 vaccine does not who have been affected by the any questions that I had. trusted local champions from faith and contain any animal products or egg. Priority groups COVID-19 virus and I can confirm “When it came to being vaccinated community groups to help reach older 1 Residents in a care home for that this is a serious illness. Current I really didn’t feel a thing and people, disabled residents, and people I’ve had COVID-19. Do I still older adults and staff working evidence shows that those from a it was over before I knew it. from ethnic minority backgrounds. need to be vaccinated? in care homes for older adults BAME (black, Asian and minority “Given the pandemic and the severity If you are aware of any residents Yes. Getting vaccinated is just as Share your vaccine stories 2 All those 80 years of age and ethnic) background have been of the situation that we all find ourselves or community groups who may wish important for those who have already If you have had your vaccine or if over and frontline health and disproportionately impacted. The in, I think that it’s really important that to get involved as a Champion or had COVID-19 as it is for those you’re getting one soon, or know social care workers COVID-19 vaccine is our only way everyone plays their part in making it in general in supporting community who haven’t. The vaccine could someone who has had one and 3 All those 75 years of age and over out of this - please ensure when you better. Trust the scientists and medical engagement, please encourage them offer more protection or boost the would like to be featured in our 4 All those 70 years of age and are invited that you take the vaccine.” professionals - the more people to email [email protected]. immunity your body already has. vaccination publicity campaign, over and clinically extremely please send a photo or a video, vulnerable individuals (not Does the vaccine have and a sentence or two explaining including pregnant women and any effect on fertility? why you’re getting the vaccine (if those under 16 years of age) There is no evidence that you send a photo rather than a the COVID-19 vaccine has video) and your name and area 5 All those 65 years of age and over any effect on fertility. to corporatecommunications@ 6 Adults aged 16 to 65 years in hillingdon.gov.uk. an at-risk group Can you buy a vaccination? 7 All those 60 years of age and over No - COVID-19 vaccinations 8 All those 55 years of age and over VACCINE CENTRE are currently only available For more information on the The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Teji vaccination programme in Hillingdon, 9 All those 50 years of age and over Barnes meets staff and volunteers through the NHS and are free for 10 Rest of the population at the Navnat vaccination centre everyone when it is their turn. visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/vaccine i

22 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 23 roads roads

wish to build a double-width Highways Act, a notice can be served crossing to serve both sites. to cease driving over the pavement 5. Only one crossover will be and to apply for a crossover. Failure permitted per property. to comply can result in the installation 6. The applicant must erect a of bollards to protect the pavement low (less than one metre) from further damage, and can also wall, fence or permanent result in prosecution, carrying a landscaping to physically maximum fine of £1,000. Any costs prevent vehicles crossing over incurred by the council in repairing an area of the footway that damage to a pavement or verge can has not been strengthened. the construction. If you’re happy also be passed onto the owner or 7. Residents must retain/provide with your quote, you will need to occupier of the property concerned. 25 per cent of soft landscaping return an acceptance form and then in their front gardens, and receive our written permission before An inconsiderate motorist adequate drainage to prevent we can proceed with the works. is blocking my crossover/ water running onto the highway. dropped kerb by parking in Where can I read more front of it - what do I do? Can I get any builder to install about this and apply? Once you have had your crossover/ a crossover/dropped kerb? Before applying, read our domestic dropped kerb installed you will Taking action to maintain the Only the council is permitted to vehicle footway crossover policy by need to register your dropped kerb. construct residential crossovers/ visiting www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ You can do this for free at www. dropped kerbs in Hillingdon. dropped-kerb-apply. hillingdon.gov.uk/dropped-kerb- borough’s pavements enforcement. If you have registered Can I choose what How can I report someone for and you find that your dropped material is used? regularly driving over/causing kerb or access to your crossover is The standard finish is either damage to a pavement or blocked, call the council’s parking Hillingdon People answers some of your frequently asked tarmac or concrete and will verge, or someone who does enforcement hotline on 01895 questions about vehicle crossovers/dropped kerbs to highlight be decided by the council. not have a legally installed 271418 and an enforcement officer crossover/dropped kerb? will visit. Any vehicle found parked the importance of having these legally installed. How much will it cost? Report these by visiting www. in contravention will be issued with The cost can vary depending on the hillingdon.gov.uk/pavement-damage a parking ticket. You may also apply size of the area and any obstructions or calling 01895 556000. The for a white bar marking, currently ach year, the council allocates Do I need planning permission? cost to the occupier unless that may need to be repositioned council takes all reports of people £135, to deter inconsiderate parking. millions of pounds on improving In most cases no. However, permission heavy vehicles illegally use such as utilities, lampposts and driving across and causing damage to Eits pavements as part of its is needed if your property has a the crossing and cause parking bays. A council officer will pavements or constructing crossings For more information about vehicle annual resurfacing programme. frontage directly on a classified road, damage. Should this happen, need to visit the site first before without permission and via external crossovers and dropped kerbs, visit There are more than 735 miles is a listed building, is not in use by the occupier is responsible providing an estimate. Costs for contractors extremely seriously. If www.hillingdon.gov.uk/building- i of pavements in Hillingdon, and a single family (e.g. flats), the works for paying for repairs. standard size crossovers can be we find that there is a breach of the dropped-kerb or call 01895 277002 it’s the council’s responsibility, as include the demolition of a front 2. A standard crossover typically between £800 and £1,200, and a the local highway authority, to wall taller than one metre, or if the comprises of three dropped non-refundable £79 administration make sure that they are maintained parking area within the site does not kerbs (2.7 metre flat section) fee is also charged for all applications. and safe for everyone to use. meet minimum requirements for with two tapers. Crossover If the proposed crossover is within The council carries out surveys and drainage. To obtain planning advice extensions must not exceed a footway improvement scheme inspections to prioritise the resurfacing prior to applying for a crossover/ 3.6 metres in total flat width. (applicants will be advised of this), of its pavements, while minor repairs dropped kerb, call 01895 277002. 3. Crossovers extending across the crossover can be constructed are carried out to ensure that the full width of the property at a 50 per cent discounted rate. If dangerous potholes are made safe. Before applying what else frontage are not allowed. Up you or a household resident has a do I need to know? to 50 per cent is allowable substantial and permanent disability Your questions answered 1. Legally installed crossovers in some circumstances. and have trouble in accessing Can I drive over the pavement are part of the public highway 4. One occupier should act on your home, you may be eligible to get to my driveway? and the council is responsible behalf of both parties when for financial assistance towards It is illegal to drive over grass verges for the maintenance at no two adjoining properties a crossing. Contact Social Care or pavements unless a legally installed Direct on 01895 556633 or email vehicle crossover/dropped kerb is [email protected]. in place. Driving across pavements Cllr John Riley, Cabinet Member for Public Safety and Transport, and verges can damage the ground, said: “In recent years, the council has, like many other local authorities How will my application utility pipes, cables, and your vehicle. across the UK, seen a rise in people illegally driving over pavements to be reviewed? gain access to their properties, resulting in unnecessary maintenance, as We will review the application and What is a vehicle crossing/ well as posing a health and safety risk. an officer will mark the pavement/ dropped kerb? “This can prove costly, with significant funding destined for routine kerb to show the extent of the new A crossover/dropped kerb strengthens resurfacing needing to be diverted to be spent on repairs. or extended crossover. Markings the pavement and prevents damage “As a result, we are taking a zero-tolerance approach to reports of do not constitute approval. You will to the utility services below its surface. motorists damaging the borough’s pavements to crack down on this issue.” then be provided with a quote for

24 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 25 community community

Prevention and intervention course of two years we were able The council’s youth justice service to support him to create a CV, get Protecting children and young delivers prevention and intervention back into education, and help repair work in areas where issues with anti- the relationship with his family. As a social behaviour or serious youth result, he went to college and now people from exploitation violence have been identified. has a career as a security and alarms One innovative way of targeting manager. He recently got in touch worked alongside a strategic police young people who may otherwise to thank the team for not giving up The council has recently been nominated for an operation to protect 35 children from be difficult to reach involves the on him and showing him that there is award for its work in protecting children and young potential harmful activity, with multiple use of a dedicated youth transport more to life than criminality and said arrests made for exploitation and bus which is fully equipped with a that without our support he would people from criminal exploitation. Here are some of possession of knives, guns and drugs. cooking area, DJ decks, flat screen have ended up in prison or worse.” the initiatives that are helping to safeguard young Emily Fletcher, AXIS Youth televisions and gaming consoles. The youth transporter bus is Prevention Officer is thrilled to be A team of skilled and experienced deployed to local parks, street people and support parents of children at risk. part of the team nominated for the targeted programme officers travel to TRANSPORTER BUS corners and busy high streets to allow award. She said: “It’s amazing that the crime hotspots across the borough to Programme Manager of the Mobile the team to engage with groups of and Detached team, Adam Mohamed An innovative approach to supported by the AXIS project. In project has been recognised and we engage with groups of young people young people and support them safeguarding young people a focused visit last January, Ofsted hope it encourages other authorities on the street and invite them onto resource that allows us to engage with any issues or concerns. Please Our AXIS project has been inspectors praised the project’s to embed some of our practices. the bus (COVID-19 dependent). young people on their own terms check the council’s website for the shortlisted for ‘The Biggest Impact ‘comprehensive partnership approach “We support young people at the Officers deliver informal educational and offer them a safe place. latest updates on the youth bus as Award’ at the National Children to the early identification of young earliest stage with the aim to prevent workshops onboard to discuss We work with some of the services are COVID-19 dependent. and Young People’s Awards, which people at risk of exploitation’ as well escalation into social care or the council’s difficult topics such as knife crime, hardest-to-reach young people in Youth workers are also offering a celebrates excellence in care for as its ‘rapid, targeted intervention youth justice service. We create a drug and alcohol abuse and sexual our borough and the bus allows programme of online activities for children, young people and families. to support young people who may bespoke action plan for them which can health, and offer additional one-to- us to build a bridge between children and young people through The award commends an not otherwise receive a service.’ last up to eight months, with support one support for those in need. the communities we work in and a range of social media platforms, outstanding team that has promoted Phil Skidmore, Senior Youth including anything from a session at Adam Mohamed, Programme the council we represent. including virtual youth clubs and positive change for vulnerable families, Network Crime Practitioner for school on self-confidence, to a walk Manager of the Mobile and “I worked with a young man a while dance, sport and fitness sessions. For and the AXIS project has been praised the project, said: “From a young age, around the park with a hot chocolate Detached team, said: “The ago who was involved in serious more information visit www.hillingdon. for its innovative approach to helping I was victim to exploitation and spent discussing gangs and exploitation. transporter youth bus is a great violence and drugs, and over the gov.uk/young-peoples-centres. young people at risk of exploitation. many years turning my life around. “I recently worked with a young male The unique project uses advanced Being involved in criminality is not who was violently attacked, and the Supporting parents of young people at risk Recognise the signs of technology to gather a range of always a clear path or choice and I police feared that he may use violence The council has received £38,665 Parent champions will offer advice, exploitation information from local schools, the learnt this in the hardest of ways. The to seek revenge. We soon realised that from the Mayor’s Office for Policing guidance and support to parents in Signs of child criminal police, hospitals, community groups AXIS project is designed to identify his posts on social media may have and Crime to introduce a new West Drayton, Yiewsley, Hayes and exploitation can include: and partners to identify hard-to-reach young people at risk at a much earlier fuelled the attack and that he needed prevention programme to support Harlington, and help them to feel • Unexplained change in children who may be exposed to stage so we can teach them and support with his social communication parents of children who may be confident talking to their children appearance and/or behaviour exploitation. The data also captures guide them to make better decisions skills. We delivered one-to-one at risk of criminal exploitation. and to professionals about the risks. • Mental health problems any emerging trends or local crime - before someone else does.” sessions on emotions, peer pressure, Working together with parenting Nawaal Omar (pictured left), • Low self-esteem hotspots, which allows support teams In August 2019, AXIS intelligence exploitation and internet safety, and organisation Brilliant Parents, the council aged 39 from West Drayton, • Alcohol and drug abuse to intervene at an early stage. was successfully used to target an taught him how his social media has recruited 15 parent champions started her new role as a parent • Unexplained injuries From October 2017 to January emerging hotspot of drug-related posts could be offensive to others. to build community resilience by champion in January. She said: “I • Sleep disorders/nightmares. 2021, 314 young people have been offending in Northwood. The council “This young person is now able to ensuring that parents are able to decided to volunteer because there is stop and think before he engages recognise the signs of exploitation. a great need in my community when Find out more at www.nspcc. in conversations or responds to it comes to the needs of adolescents. org.uk/what-is-child-abuse. negativity. I believe that as a result It can be challenging sometimes to of our work, his risk of serious youth be a positive parent but the training violence has been dramatically I’ve received has given me some reduced - if not eliminated.” useful parenting strategies to help So why does the team deserve to my family and my community. win the award? Emily concluded: “The “To be a parent champion, triangulation of information, intelligence you need to able to engage with and early intervention is what makes parents, be a good listener and feel the project so unique and I’ve seen comfortable enough to encourage first-hand how it impacts young people parents to attend a parenting to make positive changes to their lives.” programme. The best part of the Phil added: “Awards are great of role is being helpful and being able course, but ultimately the impact that our to share all the right information If you suspect that a child or young work is having on our young people and with my community, and I hope person is at risk of child criminal the community is what really matters.” we can teach parents how to exploitation, call the police on i The National Children and Young communicate with their children.” 101 or Hillingdon’s Multi Agency People’s Awards are due to be Families interested in the Safeguarding Hub on 01895 TEAM MEMBERS Phil Skidmore, Emily Fletcher and Austin Allui from the held at The ICC in Birmingham in programme can find out more by 556644. If a child is at immediate council’s AXIS team (photo taken prior to the pandemic) June (COVID-19 dependent). visiting www.brilliantparents.org. risk of harm or danger call 999

26 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 27 social care social care Supporting carers and keeping families connected Care homes in Hillingdon have gone the extra mile to keep families, friends and loved ones connected during the pandemic and to protect the residents they look after. Hillingdon People

shines a spotlight on two of the borough’s Crafts have proved popular care homes and talks to carers and staff about with both visitors and staff their experience during the past 12 months. Merrimans Respite Care Unit Merrimans Respite Care Unit in the people we look after we are Hatton Grove Uxbridge provides respite care for getting to know them better. Hatton Grove in West Drayton is a 20- to the main building via a Perspex adults with a range of needs including “We know their likes and dislikes, bed residential care home for adults screen has helped ensure that loved physical and learning disabilities. The their quirks and can spend more who have complex and profound ones can see each other safely. home gives carers the opportunity one-on-one time encouraging them learning and physical disabilities. To facilitate close contact visits, the to have a break from their caring to be more independent, as for In January, all residents received home will test visitors on site using “It’s a huge relief especially for responsibilities and helps those who some of our residents respite is a their first vaccine for COVID-19 rapid swab tests, which produce our staff who have worked tirelessly use the service to learn how to be stepping stone to supported living.” and care home staff helped prepare results in 30 minutes. Loved ones will throughout the pandemic, prioritising more independent away from home. The home has purchased a whole them by sharing easy-to-read be able to have closer contact visits the health and safety of our residents. Approximately 70 people use new art cupboard with paints, materials and YouTube videos but will still need to wear gloves, “However, we will continue to the service each year and the clay, glitter and decorations so to help explain the process. masks and other essential PPE. remain extremely vigilant to keep the unit was one of the first respite residents and staff can follow arts Throughout the lockdowns Care Home Manager, Tracie people we look after safe and well.” homes in London to implement and crafts videos on YouTube. care home staff have ensured that Hamer, said: “We’ve had a year Eastcote resident, Jeanette COVID-19 secure procedures A range of new sensory residents are able to stay connected like no other and the vaccine feels Banister’s daughter Kathryn, aged and reopen following the equipment has been purchased with their loved ones. After the like light at the end of the tunnel. 39, needs round-the-clock care and relaxation of the first lockdown. for the garden, there is now a mini first lockdown in March, the home’s “Our staff have done everything has lived at Hatton Grove for five years. Rapid on-site swab tests are green house, and new wipe-down broadband signal was boosted they can to keep our residents Jeanette said: “The first lockdown in deployed on every shift for staff, furniture and laminate flooring and smartphones and tablets happy and have organised various March was very difficult because we and visitors staying at the home are has helped support the home’s were purchased to facilitate video activities to celebrate Christmas, were unable visit Kathryn for three tested upon arrival. Support bubbles enhanced cleaning regime. calls and staff regularly sent photo Valentine’s Day and Easter. months. Staff made sure we had regular based on friendship groups have Eastcote resident Jennie and email updates to families. “Residents and staff are thrilled video calls and sent me email updates been created to ensure that the Goozee's daughter Sarah, aged Last summer, a gazebo was set to have received the vaccine and photos so that I could see how social aspect that those who use 39, has been coming to Merrimans up in the garden to accommodate and it has provided them with she was doing. In June, myself and my the service enjoy such as takeaways for 20 years, she said: “The beauty socially distanced visits, and this vital protection and much- older daughter, Sarah, had a COVID-19 and movie nights can continue. of Merrimans is their regular staff winter, a special outside area attached needed hope for the future. secure visit with Kathryn in the garden Liz Woodward, Registered team who provide continuity of care and it was so special to see her in person Manager for Merrimans which is really important to people again after being apart for so long. Respite Unit, said: “We have had like Sarah who have very high care “In the winter, Hatton Grove staff to cancel all external entertainers, support needs and can't talk. set up a covered over visiting area trips, visits and parties. The “Sarah is so happy coming to outside that’s connected to the main evening social clubs attended Merrimans and she literally runs building by a Perspex screen. It’s throughout the week have closed through the door which really been a wonderful lifeline for family to ensure the safety of residents. reassures me and my husband. visits and even though we were “The pandemic has totally “In August, my husband had a unable to have physical contact changed the way our home major operation and we were so with Kathryn she was still very much operates and we have pulled grateful that Merrimans was able reassured by our presence and it’s out all the stops to ensure our to care for Sarah at short notice. been a great comfort to us all. residents are kept occupied and “When Sarah has respite at “It’s been an incredibly stressful happy as we now provide day Merrimans it gives us a much- and trying time for us as a family support for residents unable to needed break and enables us and I can’t praise the council and access day services or outreach. to carry on caring. We are very care home staff enough. Hatton “Undoubtedly, there have grateful for this respite and would To find out more about social Grove has such as lovely atmosphere been many challenges during the like to thank everyone at Merrimans care services in Hillingdon and the Jeanette Banister visits her and I’m completely reassured that past year but because we are for their excellent support, support available for carers, visit i daughter Kathryn at Hatton Grove Kathryn is safe and well cared for.” spending a lot more time with especially during the pandemic.” www.hillingdon.gov.uk/socialcare

28 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 29 community Update from the West Area Chief Inspector It’s time, time to join the Met. for controlling prostitution and modern with government advice and keeping I’m delighted to announce slavery act offences, and rescued the yourselves and your families/friends we’re recruiting once again and ladies involved. This was as a result of safe. I find it really heartening how there are several routes if you, or information from local residents and the community has come together someone you know, is interested yet again shows our determination to support the vulnerable. in becoming a trainee detective to make Hillingdon a safer place. Stay safe constable or a police constable. Prostitution is not a victimless crime, We’re particularly interested in there is almost always drugs, violence welcoming and supporting applicants and low-level crime involved. from BAME and other backgrounds One area that’s causing concern that are traditionally underrepresented is the rise in catalytic converter in the Met. Brunel University is taking thefts; if at all possible, park your Chief Inspector on its first cohort from our graduate car in a garage or a secure area, or Richard entry programme, and for those of you with the front towards a wall, or at Watkinson that remember him you’ll be pleased to best in a well-lit area with the car hear that retired Inspector Rob Bryan alarm on. We are working closely is teaching the students all he knows. with local garages and scrap metal I’m not sure that will take too long! dealers to address this problem. New recruits continue to come to You should also register your West Area, including Hillingdon, which converter and mark it with a forensic means we have been able to put marker, which will make it harder extra officers onto both our response for thieves to dispose of. Visit www. teams and also some of our local securedbydesign.com for more details. wards, enabling them to get to grips Finally, I hope to see the light at with local policing and local issues. the end of the COVID tunnel soon, We’ve just closed down a brothel in and to the majority of residents I’d Hayes, arresting and charging four men like to say thank you for complying

Have your say on Mount Vernon Cancer Services he NHS is currently reviewing the services Tprovided by the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre and Hillingdon residents are being asked to have their say. The review looks at how services could be organised in the future to provide the best possible care for patients, including access to research trials, new technology and innovative treatments, from modern, safe facilities. The experiences and opinions of current and former patients, as well as those living in the catchment area for Mount Vernon, are central to the review and will guide and inform any future decisions. The East of England Engagement Team is holding an online focus group (on Zoom) specifically for Hillingdon residents on Monday 22 March at 6.30pm. The event will explore how the proposed changes might affect local people and you’ll be asked to share your thoughts on the proposals. For more information on the review and to register for the event, please visit www.mvccreview.nhs.uk. If you are unable to attend this event but would still like to participate in the review, please visit the website or email [email protected] to find out more.

March/April 2021 31 volunteers volunteers A safe space for women Hillingdon Women’s Centre is a charitable organisation providing a safe and confidential space for women to access information, support and advice on a range of matters. Find out how the centre supports female residents and local organisations, what they did to mark this year’s International Women’s Day and how you can support the charity.

he centre, located in Uxbridge, Ongoing support and guidance adapt the way it operates and is a safe space that is inclusive continue after the training, and with delivers its services, to ensure Tof all women. Serving the more and more employers taking part, it can continue to help as many borough for more than 35 years, it the aim is to create a united front and people as possible - especially as is the only women-only organisation a clear message in the borough that cases related to domestic abuse of its kind in the local community domestic abuse will not be tolerated. have increased in the last year. providing information and access to For more information about To support their operations and, services. Through this support, the the training and how your to help them to adapt during the centre helps to empower women workplace can be involved, visit pandemic, the centre received and supports them to overcome www.workplacesafespace.org. a corporate core grant from the barriers in their lives so they can A new programme, Pathways council towards their running thrive and reach their full potential. to Healing, which was specifically costs. They are also assisted by Their work mainly focuses around created to support survivors of the council’s stronger communities supporting those affected by domestic domestic abuse and help them to and community safety teams who abuse, and providing advice in areas build a new life free from violence, have helped them source funding, including legal rights, immigration, is also launching later this year. connect with other community benefits and housing entitlement. As a result of the COVID-19 groups and provided support for The centre also signposts people pandemic, the centre has had to the Workspace Safespace project. to other organisations that can assist if they do not cover a service With additional assistance from its sure the woman is safe. They also in-house. For this reason, the team board of trustees and the resilience create links with relevant local services always encourages women to get in of its staff members, the centre such as solicitors, charities, the police, touch whatever their circumstance, was able to provide most of their social services and health agencies to as they will always try to find a way to services remotely. This includes ensure further support is available. help, even if it is through providing a offering information, advice and To mark International Women's referral to another specialist service. guidance on the phone or via Day on Monday 8 March, the In addition, the centre assists women platforms such as Zoom, Skype, centre held a range of online events experiencing mental health difficulties, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet. alongside other local organisations unemployment, isolation, or those They also offer online groups so and members of Women in who might require counselling. They members can continue to meet, the Community Network. The also organise a range of social activities, and have organised a range of sessions included poetry readings, and workshops and training to help virtual events. The centre plans to wellbeing activities, art classes, women improve their wellbeing, continue to increase these online and a virtual feminist book club. self-esteem, employability and more. activities as the year progresses. Vicky Lechuga, Centre The charity collaborates with the Once the national restrictions have Manager, Hillingdon Women’s How you can support council and partner organisations eased, the centre will again be able to Centre, said: “Women-only spaces the centre The Sharan Project and Belina GRoW, offer face-to-face support as they have are paramount for us to feel safe If you’re interested in volunteering to support Hillingdon businesses risk-assessed their premises and put and free to speak out and support contact info@hillingonwomenscentre. which are committed to tackling and measures in place to ensure they can each other. It’s why it was crucial org, visit www.hillingdonwomenscentre. reducing domestic abuse, by providing operate in a COVID-19 secure way. to provide our services and host org/volunteer or call 01895 259578. Workplace Safespace training. The free The council funding has also International Women’s Day activities You can also find out about upcoming initiative helps local organisations create helped them to employ their own virtually, so we could ensure our opportunities and fundraising or update existing domestic abuse Cllr Jane Palmer, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said: “I dedicated domestic abuse caseworker community were still able to initiatives by following the centre on policies; establish a physical safe space am pleased with how the council, and its statutory and local voluntary partners to respond to the needs of women connect despite the pandemic. Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, using in their workplace; provides employers have risen to the challenges in tackling domestic abuse during the pandemic. in the community; such as providing “I encourage all women to the handle @HillingdonWomen. and their employees with the skills and “A rise in reported cases means that victims and their children are accessing advocacy, practical and emotional contact us whenever they need knowledge to spot warning signs of staff support services and that perpetrators are being identified. The Safespace support to survivors of abuse. advice and support but also when For more information, members experiencing domestic abuse, scheme is important in raising awareness of domestic abuse, spotting the signs Additionally, the caseworker assesses they want to share their time and support and advice, visit and equip businesses with information and ‘red flags’ of abuse and what to do next while also providing safe spaces the risk of the individuals who gets in experiences. Women do great www.hillingdonwomenscentre.org i on how to support employees. for victims to remain or go to.” contact and creates a plan to make things when they are together!” and www.hillingdon.gov.uk/abuse

32 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 33 advertisements Are you looking for good quality Apply ▸ Book ▸ Pay ▸ Request ▸ Report furniture or electricals? Do it online 24/7 at Or do you have some you want to donate? www.hillingdon.gov.uk/doitonline CONTACTS Environment Leisure Electoral Services Families' Information Service and roads Battle of Britain and Registrars www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fis Bunker Exhibition 01895 558250 01895 556489 Animal Welfare ▸ Food, Health and Safety and Visitor Centre Conservative Group Office Fraud Hotline For a free and friendly 01895 250190 battleofbritainbunker.co.uk 01895 250316 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ collection call your nearest 01895 238154 Labour Group Office reportfraud Abandoned Vehicles branch - open 6 days a week ▸ Botwell Green Sports 01895 250780 0800 389 8313 Environment and Anti- and Leisure Centre Mayor's Office HillingdonFirst Card Social Behaviour ▸ 01895 250763 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ Flytipping Graffiti 020 8561 0956 ▸ ▸ Haste Hill Public hillingdonfirst Parks and Green Spaces ▸ Planning 01895 556677 Pest Control Roads Golf Course ▸ 01895 250777 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ Hillingdon Social Care and Pavements Special planning ▸ Highgrove Pool and Direct (adults and Collections ▸ Street 01895 250230 children) Blue Badges Lighting and Cleansing Fitness Centre Building Control, ▸ ▸ ▸ 01895 630753 Freedom Passes ▸ Meals We recycle quality unwanted furniture and Waste and Recycling Inspections and Service TeleCareLine electricals. We provide paid employment and 01895 556000 Hillingdon Sports and Dangerous Structures ▸ training to disadvantaged people and Leisure Complex 01895 556633 01895 558170 Housing Services excellent quality furniture at fantastic prices Learning 0345 130 7324 Dangerous Structures to you. Visit our stores today! Adult Learning Hillingdon Theatres www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ (out of hours) housing www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ www.hillingdontheatres.uk 01895 250111 01895 556666 Uxbridge: 01895 256655 adultlearning 01895 250615 Local Land Charges Substance Use and Misuse Hayes: 020 8 797 9505 01895 556455 Queensmead 01895 556115 www.wearetrinity.org.uk Sports Centre or Sexual Health Library Information Desk 020 8845 6010 01895 250721 facebook.com/trinityfurniturestore General 01895 250714 Uxbridge Public Adoption and Fostering Trading Standards School Admissions Golf Course www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ 01895 556750 fost-adopt tradingstandards schooladmissions William Byrd Pool 0800 783 1298 01895 250164 01895 556644 020 8897 9390 Brown Badges 01895 277277 School Transport Local democracy All other 01895 250008 Council Tax and Benefits council enquiries Council Meeting Dates www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ (not listed above) Truancy Hotline and Agendas counciltax 01895 250111 01895 250858 01895 250636 0300 123 1384 USEFUL SERVICES Communicare Counselling Hillingdon Independent Hospitals AND AGENCIES Service Domestic Violence Harefield Hospital 01895 256056 Advocacy (HIDVA) 01895 823737 Addiction, Recovery, Citizens Advice Consumer 020 8246 1745 Hillingdon Hospital Community, Hillingdon Mind Hillingdon (ARCH) Helpline 01895 238282 03454 04 05 06 01895 271559 01895 207777 Mount Vernon Hospital Hillingdon Parent 01923 826111 Affinity Water Citizens Advice Hillingdon 0344 848 7903 Carers Forum Northwick Park Hospital 0345 357 2407 www.hillingdonpcf.com Disablement Association 020 8864 3232 Age UK Hillingdon Hillingdon U3A Watford General Hospital 020 8756 3040 Hillingdon (DASH) 020 8848 8319 07532 268002 01923 244366 Alzheimer's Society NHS Hillingdon HD Carers Support Group Hillingdon Women's Centre To advertise 01895 259578 111 01923 823999 07752 169849 in this magazine visit Police and Fire Asphaleia Action Healthwatch Hillingdon Home-Start Hillingdon www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ Metropolitan Police 01895 272478 01895 272997 01895 252804 hillingdonpeople P3 Navigator Advice Centre Non-emergency 101 Carers Trust Hillingdon Autistic Care Textphone 18001 101 01895 436114 Please mention Hillingdon and Support (HACS) Hillingdon Hillingdon People 01895 811206 020 8606 6780 Samaritans Neighbourhood Watch when responding Centre for ADHD and Hillingdon Brain Tumour 116 123 (freephone) [email protected] to adverts Autism Support and Injury Group Victim Support Hillingdon Fire Station 020 8429 1552 01895 713205 08 08 16 89 111 (freephone) 020 8555 1200

34 March/April 2021 March/April 2021 35