Shopping in the West End Theatre Tickets Strictly Star Alesha Dixon Tells Us See Page 11 About Her High Street Fashion Week

THE WESTMINSTER FREE

reporter ISSUE 96 AUTUMN 2009 Westminster City Council magazine How to ﬁ nd work Free events and get training for children More than 1,000 Your guide to what’s people helped through on in the autumn the recession Stay ﬁ t in Do you know Little Venice someone special? New £4.5 million Nominate them for a sports centre now open Neighbourhood Leadership Award and they could win £1,000 WIN! Shopping in the West End Theatre tickets Strictly star Alesha Dixon tells us See page 11 about her High Street Fashion Week

SAFE IN WESTMINSTER FREE ENTRY The Abbey Centre STOP PRESS 34 Great Smith Street Community Thursday, 8th October, 2009 TheReassurance Homeownership Westminster Westminster ‘One-Stop-Shop’ Event 12pm to 8pm London SW1P 3BU

ISSUE 96 contents AUTUMN 2009 Westminster City Council magazine Unlock the door to

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

Cabinet Member for Communications: Councillor Colin Barrow, Westminster Leader of Westminster City Council. The Westminster Reporter is delivered to homes and businesses throughout Westminster. If you encounter delivery problems, please call the communications team on 020 7641 2412. Also available from One Stop Services, libraries and leisure centres. For general enquiries, call the council switchboard on 020 7641 6000. Alesha Dixon on Oxford Street To discuss editorial matters, please contact: The Editor, The Westminster Reporter, 17th Floor, Westminster City Hall, How the council is helping Free activities for you and 64 Victoria St, London SW1E 6QP. 6 people into training and 16 your children in the autumn Telephone: 020 7641 2412 back into work Fax: 020 7641 2958 Westminster’s Magnificent Email: [email protected] Nominate someone who 20 Seven: how the council will Minicom: 020 7641 2948 8 makes your community a improve the city for 2012 The editorial team: Stephanie Matheson, better place Neil Wholey and Clym Sutcliffe. What you can do to minimise Reference copies of The Westminster Get involved in improving 24 your risk of swine flu Reporter are available in large print and 10 your neighbourhood audiotape format. To have a free copy sent Find out how you can recycle Do you want to buy your own home? to your home call 020 7641 2412. We are doing it: how 24 more and become a Zero Hero 14 residents are making Homeownership Westminster is a new council service that gives you Published by Westminster City Council, Your area’s history: Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street,, a diddifferencefference 35 advice and information about buying your own property. London SW1E 6QP Little Venice ward Printed by Quadracolor Ltd, Unit 3, Kangley Bridge Road, If you live or work in Westminster Lower Sydenham, London SE26 5AR Call: 0845 437 9701 Printed on FSC/PEFC certified recycled material using vegetable based inks. Visit: www.homeownershipwestminster.co.uk Please recycle The Westminster Reporterr. For more information on recycling call thee Environmental Action Line on 020 7641 2000.00.

Homeownership Westminster is provided by Catalyst2 The Westminster Housing Reporter Group, a charitable housing association The Westminster Reporter 3 Community News in brief ReassuranceSAFE IN WESTMINSTER Biggest Olympic memories Leader’s Column o you remember the 1948 DOlympics? Tell us your story and play day you could win publications from the Westminster City Archives and tickets In this edition of the Reporter we have included a ever in for museum exhibits. Safer Westminster booklet which I hope you will To submit your story, contact Georgia ﬁ nd interesting. It shows how we’re working together Vossou at gvossou@westminster. Regent’s gov.uk or on 020 7641 5162. with the police to make Westminster even safersafer.. Park Award-winning More than 3,000 children took trading standards part in free council-organised estminster City Council’s trading activities ranging from sheep Wstandards department scooped shearing to ferret racing and the Public Protection Achievement of falcon displays. the Year award at the 2009 Municipal Journal Awards. The team successfully llr Mark Page, Westminster’s dealt with criminals and conmen hiding CCabinet Member for Children’s behind mail forwarding addresses. Services and Young People, said: “Play is such an important part of all children’s lives and needs to be actively encouraged to help them learn about Zoe Zielinska, 3, enjoying a spot of golf themselves and the world.” World’s ﬁ rst High Street Fashion Week Community role Guiding the future n theh magazinei you willill fifindd examplesl andd TTachbrookhb k markets.k WeW haveh alsol of Westminster Iof how Westminster City Council started to improve 400 of Westminster’s n September, Oxford Street hosted for parking attendants helps you live in a healthy and safe most important streets, making a real Ithe very first Fashion Week dedicated detailed guide on how Westminster environment, including information on difference to the city’s landscape. to High Street fashion. Shoppers enjoyed ew people realise that in Ashould grow and change over community events and how you can To find out more about what we are free shows, exhibitions and discounts. FWestminster, parking attendants both the short and long term is being find out what’s happening in your doing to build a living city of Alesha Dixon, who was voted High only give out an average of just compiled by its planning experts to neighbourhood. You’ll find out about opportunity, visit www.westminster. Street Fashion Queen, said: “I am so one ticket an hour. A large part of help shape the city’s future. This started different projects that keep your gov.uk/livingcity or contact us at excited to be part of the first ever High their role is to help motorists with with a series of lively public debates borough’s streets safe and clean, and [email protected] Street Fashion Week. Since I was young, directions or information on where hosted by the council in July. that will get Westminster in shape for I’ve always popped down to Oxford to park. They also report problems the 2012 Olympics. Sandra Cove If you want to share your ideas for Street with my friends for our ritual they spot in the street, such as We are making a number of the future of Westminster or join shopping Saturday.” broken railings, signs or lights. “Our job is now much more about improvements across the city and will in the debate, contact the LDF Sandra Cove has been a parking helping the community, rather than tackle areas that need smartening up. Find out more at www.high Team on 020 7641 2503 or email attendant for three years. She said: just enforcing parking rules.” We are looking to revitalise the local Cllr Colin Barrow, streetfashionweek.com [email protected] shopping streets near Church Street Leader of Westminster City Council.

4 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 5 City Recovery City Recovery

What we are doing ‘I didn’t expect to get a job so quickly’ AfterAf being out of work for two years, Telka Chambers, 28, found a job through the Westminster WorksW programme and is now a Customer Service Ofﬁ cer at Octavia Housing, a local housing to help you through association.as She explains how Westminster Works helped kickstart her career.

had some previous work experience in reception I had both time and financial pressures, I would say to tough times “Iand administration but had always wanted to anyone looking for a job that this is a great way in and workw in housing and needed more experience to get worth the short-term sacrifice. a job in this sector. “Once I was ready to apply for jobs, they also helped A year after it was launched, Westminster City Council’s “I met with my Westminster Works advisor to me with my applications and interview skills which I City Recovery Programme has helped more than 1,000 ddiscuss what skills and experience I wanted to gain as a found really useful in building my confidence. vvolunteer and came up with an action plan to help “Octavia hired me after the work placement. I didn’t people and 1,200 businesses through the recession. mem to achieve my goals. I was given a three month expect to get a job so quickly. I am thankful to workw placement at Octavia, where I worked as an Westminster Works for helping me to develop skills that easures we have taken include a council tax freeze, administrator.a This experience was vital and although helped me secure this position and begin my career.” Ma combined debt and benefits support service as Telka Chambers well as advice for job seekers and small businesses. To ffind out about the help Westminster Works offers, such as CV, interview and language training, work Many people have been helped into training or work, plplacements,a childcare or financial advice, call 020 7575 3113 or visit www.westminster.gov.uk/westminsterworks and an extra car-free day for the West End has boosted income for the capital’s premier shopping streets. by Sam Adlerer Housing support ‘With help I developed a strategy to Residents at risk of losing their homes because defy the economic situation’ of difﬁ culties with mortgage or rent payments LaraLa D’Appollonio, 29, has been a professional photographer for more than eight years and can now apply for an interest free loan under a waswa able to set up her own photographic agency a year ago in Bayswater. She tells the Reporter new council scheme. aboutab the council-funded advice that made it possible. oans will be restricted to £5,000 per household and ith the help of the Portobello Business any business owner, times are very challenging but Lapplicants need to fulfil certain conditions and have “WCentre I set up my own business and was with help from the Portobello Business Centre, sought aadviced from the Westminster ggiveni advice on budgeting, how to pay my taxes and I’ve been able to develop a strategy to defy the CitizCitizense Advice Bureau or the iinn general how to save costs, which is key in the economic situation. NaNationalt Debt Helpline first. currentcu climate, particularly as a start-up company. “I’ve been introduced to groups such as the Did you If you are at risk of “The recession, however, has meant that many of Paddington Business Network to expand my list of rrepossession or eviction, mmy clients – around 40% - have been affected as contacts and generate trade. I’ve also received know...elped ththey find themselves under pressure to cut costs. For assistance with improving marketing techniques.” ...since April we have helpedmiliess ccontact the council’s Housing . OptionsO Service on over 100 homeless familiestion ForF confidential, one-to-one business support, call the Portobello Business Centre on 020 7460 5050. into rented accomodation. 0202020 7641 1000.

6 ThThe WWestminstert i t RReportert Lara D’Appollonio The Westminster Reporter 7 Living City

Neighbourhood Leaders Nomination Form Nominate someone special After completing the form, please cut it out and return it to the address below. People who make your community a better place could win £1,000. Put them Isola Akay, was also a winner Your details forward for this year’s Neighbourhood Leadership Awards run by Westminster last year in the ‘working with Nominator Name: City Council, NHS Westminster and the Metropolitan Police. young people’ category. He Contact telephone number: is founder of the All Stars he awards are a chance to recognise people with a Winners of the four categories will be awarded cash prizes Boxing Gym in Harrow Road. E-mail address: Treal sense of community who help to make Westminster of £1,000. The competition closes on 7th December 2009 and a great place to live. They are your opportunity to give local the awards ceremony will take place in January 2010. t our gym, we help over Who do you want to nominate? leaders and unsung heroes the recognition they deserve. by Ian Pithouse 300 boys from difficult “A Nominee Name: backgrounds to transform their negative energy into positive Contact telephone number: Elizabeth Virgo is the winner of the ‘making the community a better place’ category in last accomplishments. Sport gives E-mail address: year’s awards. She is the chair of the Little Venice police ward panel and co-ordinator of the them a sense of direction, discipline Westminster Amenities Societies Forum. and companionship. They open Award category (please select one): their hearts to us and we are there Changing the lives of young people Elizabeth Virgo he said: “I like to get involved in things that really interest me, or with people I for them. Seeing how well they Senjoy mixing with – something I learned through the Brownies. A lot of my respond to our guidance gives Changing the lives of older people work aims to improve communications between local people and public service me great satisfaction. Many of Helping people live a healthy life providers such as the police and the council. I have some really interesting them become good boxers too Making the community safer personal experiences, but most of all I enjoy feeling that I’m making a difference. – this year we have four junior “It was great to be nominated for the Neighbourhood Leadership Awards and ABA champiochampions. How does this person make a difference? I feel that my contribution is really “There are so many (Please attach a separate sheet of paper to tell us more.) valued and appreciated. I was quite Isola Akay coaching Joseph Hollyfield, 10 peoplepe doing their best taken aback when I won, knowing that I toto help out in their was surrounded by people who had all variousva communities. made enormous contributions to their It’sIt great to recognise local communities. themth through these “There are so many unsung heroes outt awardsaw and show there. If you know someone who does themth that their hard their bit to make a difference in any workw is appreciated. I way, it could be a volunteer or a carer, feltfe delighted and then please do them a good turn and humbledh when I won. nominate them for this year’s awards.” SoS I say to anyone whow is considering nominatingn someone To nominate someone special send in the cut out nomination form (opposite)te)) Please return to: Stephanie Matheson, Communications, 17th Floor, – just do it!” or nominate online at www.westminster.gov.uk/leadersawards Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP

8 TThehe Westminster ReReporterporter The Westminster Reporter 9 SAFE Safe and clean streets SAFE IN WESTMINSTER IN WESTMINSTER

Photography by Simon Annand It’s your neighbourhood – so get involved Helping out in your community is easier than you think. The Reporter ‘I’m known as the Handy Man takes a look at two people making because I get things done’ WIN! a big difference. Joao Moraes, 40, is a Westminster City Inspector who has by Cherie Willerss worked for the council for ﬁ ve years. He is based in Vincent Square A ppairair ofof ticketstick and explains how residents can help him with his work. ‘It’s amazing to see sually, I’ll start my day by checking the reports from the Environmental to see War Horse “UAction Line. It’s a 24-hour hotline that residents can use to tell us Following two sold-out seasons at the their faces light up’ about any street related issue, from waste collection to abandoned National Theatre, War Horse is now vehicles and noise problems. I then act on that information and go out on playing at the New London Theatre. Martin Kehoe, 45, started volunteering to the street to try to resolve any reported and unreported issues. Based on the celebrated novel by 12 months ago through the Volunteer Centre “In my job it’s really important to be a people person as I’m often the Michael Morpurgo, the play tells the Westminster. first point of contact for residents and businesses. If residents spot a broken sign or cracked pavement they can report it to me. In fact, a story of a young boy and his horse very Wednesday afternoon I accompany a number of people who know me refer to me as the ‘Handy Man’ because at the outbreak of World War One. “Egroup of four or five adults with learning they say I always get things done. Suitable for children 10yrs+. disabilities to St James’s Park, where we look after a Martin Kehoe, right, volunteering in St James’s Park “I really enjoy making Westminster a cleaner and greener city and I see temporary allotment. my role as someone who finds solutions. I consider the problem and then, To win a pair of tickets for a Monday “It’s been really successful and so far we’ve managedd “ I gotgot iinvolvednvolved ininvo volunteeringlunteering because I with input from local residents and businesses, look at how I can help or to Thursday evening performance to grow all kinds of vegetables including carrots, wanted to do something worthwhile and what can be done to fix it.“ iin November 2009, simply email cabbages, and tomatoes, but that isn’t down to me as [email protected] by offer my help where I could.” Joao Moraes I’m not particularly ‘green fingered’, rather it’s due to Martin Kehoe 330th October 2009 with ‘WAR HORSE the hard work and commitment of the whole group. WWESTMINSTER’ in the title, your “It’s amazing how something so simple can mean so gardening project in Pimlico, and that led to my nname, daytime phone number, address much to everyone I work with, seeing their faces light involvement in the allotment scheme. up when we get to harvest what we’ve grown and take “Everyone needs a helping hand at some point in aand answer to the following question: vegetables home to eat is wonderful and means a great their lives and I think it’s important that we all play our WWhen is War Horse set? deal to me. part within the localcal communitycommunity.. I hope therethere’s s a aa) The Victorian Period “I got involved in volunteering because I wanted to do volunteer out therere bb) World War One something worthwhile and offer my help where I could. for me one day, iff I My first volunteering experience was working on a ever need one.“ cc) World War Two To book tickets visit To become a volunteer, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/volunteer or call To report a problem to your area’s City Inspector, call 020 7641 2000 or www.warhorselondon.com the Volunteer Centre Westminster on 020 7402 8076. email [email protected] or call 020 7452 3000.

10 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 11 City Recovery Safe and clean streets SAFE Wheels when IN WESTMINSTER Have your say on local issues you want them Area Forums are your opportunity to make a difference and help shape the community you live in. At each forum meeting you can meet your councillors, receive information about council services and discuss council plans affecting your local area.

ussell Moltneu-Johnson went to what happens in your area – especially Area Forums Rthe Maida Vale Area Forum for about the ward budget funding. coming soon the first time this summer and was I would encourage people to go along pleased to get an issue about and find out who deals with what.” All forums run from recycling resolved. He said: “I think by Emma Germain 6.30-8.30pm. the issue was dealt with very well. • Marylebone: The forum was a good idea. I heard Thursday 15th October, about it through my membership of the Paddington Waterways and Council House, Maida Vale Society.” 97-113 Marylebone Road, NW1 5PT “The forums are a good • West End: way to meet your ward Tuesday 20th October, councillors. You can venue to be confi rmed have your say and, to a • Bayswater: degree, infl uence what Tuesday 3rd November, happens in your area.” venue to be confi rmed John Zamit, Bayswater resident • Maida Vale: Wednesday John Zamit is a regular attendee at Join Westminster Car Club today 11th November, the Bayswater Area Forum and Drive away from only £3.95 per hour or £29 per day. Paddington Academy, chairman of the South East Bayswater Includes free fuel, insurance and the Congestion Charge. 56 Marylands Road, Residents’ Association. He reported a problem with damaged paving in Get £25 worth of FREE driving at westminster.gov.uk/carclub quoting ‘REPORTER’. W9 2DR Porchester Gardens, which was fixed • St John’s Wood: soon afterward. John said: “The forums Terms and conditions apply. See zipcar.co.uk/restrictions. Expires 31st August 2010. Tuesday 17th November, are a good way to meet your ward venue to be confi rmed councillors. You can have your say and, to a degree, influence Visit www.westminster.gov.uk/areaforums to find out more, or call the Area Forums team on 020 7641 3916.

John Zamit 12 The Westminster Reporter Westminster Reporter 13 SAFE Community SAFE IN WESTMINSTER IN WESTMINSTER

Residents are bringing people together in their community Young people Across the borough, residents are joining forces for the good of the community. Residents enjoying SouthWest Festival (© Sebastian Latala) The Reporter highlights three community projects organisednised by residents for take a lead residents,, with a little bit of help from us. On Hallﬁ eld Estate, younger and older residents have been getting Let’s go, together to come up with ideas for tackling crime and fear of crime let’s grow! on the estate. This is part of the Innovations Catalyst project which Church Street residents have helps young people play an active created the Don Perry Kitchen role in their neighbourhood. Garden, named in memory of a former local resident associationn he group came up with the concept chair and Westminster magistrate.e. SouthWestSoS Festival Tof a forum to organise events and Lisson Green Fun Day (©(© Sebastian Latala) activities for all residents. Two young (© Spencer Griffiths) he project has transformed an area people now sit on the residents’ Tpreviously associated with anti-social association panel, and young residents behaviour into a vegetable patch. So far A ffunun day in the ccommunity have done a sponsored run to raise two dozen residents of all ages, have The second ever Great Communities Day took place money for the estate fun day. worked in the garden. It has proved so Celebrating diversity in the SouthWest Getting young people involved in in August at Lisson Green Estate. popular the site has been extended and Now in its 6th year, more than 5,500 people attended this year’s activities is a focus on all estates across now offers space for more than 40 rganised by estate residents and CityWest homes, SouthWestFest parade of brightly coloured ﬂ oats from local Westminster. The council runs a youth different vegetables including carrots, Othe event offered something for everybody – from outreach programme, which is funded chillies and parsnips. live entertainment and fairground rides to Parkour and schools and community groups. byy the Youth Taskforce. Mike Wohl got involved at the very a city farm. ith food, fun fair rides, Jane Buttigieg, the Festival Chair, said: beginning.b He said: “This has had such a Dolly Cuthbert, who lives on the estate and helped plan Wperformances on two stages “I have lived here all my life and this positivep effect on the local community, the day, said: “This event is great because it is open to and Shakespeare in the park, the fest event truly celebrates the achievements bringingb people together as they see the anyone and people come from all over Westminster to is popular with all ages. of the community and its diversity. It seedsse they have sown beginning to enjoy themselves. It’s something we all look forward to.” Also part of the festival is a Pimlico’s brings everybody together.” sprout.s It has taken off like wild fire.” Also in August, Hallfield Estate tenants and residents of Got Talent event, a Sing-a-long To see the whole collection of Did you the area came together for the Hallfield Fun Day 2009. Mamma Mia, an Old Time Musical, photographs from the event please During the event, Florence Coaker (Molly to her friends), Circus Skills at Tate Britain, a showing visit www.fotoartisan.com/ know... born on 7th July 1909, celebrated her 100th birthday and of Passport to Pimlico, an Antique’s was presented with a card and flowers. Road Show and much more. ...Westminster has To help plan a future community day on a Westminster To get involved in community projects and groups near your or to find a To get involved in this project, call the Church Street estate, contact CityWest Homes on 020 7245 2350 or tenants and residents association in your area, visit the Community 21 youth clubs. Estate Office on 020 7245 2731. at [email protected] Information Database at http://elibrary.westminster.gov.uk

Gardening in Church Street 141 The Westminster Reporter Westminster RepReporterorter 15 WOW

The highlights WOW, lots of half-term Football workshop Tel: 020 7641 2012 Venue: Paddington Library, Dates: Wednesday 7th October, Cost: £6 per person per day Porchester Road, W2 5DU 9am-1pm Tel: 020 7641 8547 Age: 11+ Play projects Cost: FREE fun in October As part of Black History Month, Dates: Monday 26th October – Chelsea football club’s ﬁ rst black Friday 30th October, 8.30am-6pm Story telling and Halloween crafts Keep your children active this half-term. Westminster City Council offers player Paul Canoville will be Age: 5-11 running a football workshop with Centre-based play project offering a Dates: Friday 30th October, from lots of free and low cost activities they can get involved in – from sports and the chance to talk to professional range of supervised sports, games, 10.30am players. arts and crafts, free play and trips. Age: 3+ ggames to art workshops and family trips. Venue: Academy Sport, Venue: Maida Vale Play Project – Children’s author Cathy MacLennan Westminster Academy, The Pavilion, Paddington Recreation will be reading from her new book ArsiemaAr Tesfay, 11, Queen’s Park Jayvon Tison, 8, Edgware Road 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ Ground, W9 1PD ‘Spooky Spooky Spooky’ and “I“ think young people should be active. It’s fun “I enjoy playing football and running at my Tel: 020 7641 8547 Venue: Micky Star Play Project – running a Halloween themed too exercise during the holidays.”holidays. yoyouth club. I think all children should take part workshop. Cost: FREE 58 St. Michael’s Street, W2 1YM in activities as it’s important to spend time Venue: St. John’s Wood Library, playingpla outside.” Venue: Queen’s Park Play Project – Edutain 17-19 Third Avenue, W10 4RS 20 Circus Road, NW8 6PD Dates: Monday 26th October – Venue: St. Stephen’s Play Project – Tel: 020 7641 1300 EllieEll Charles, 11, Queen’s Park Friday 30th October, 10am-3pm St. Mary of the Angels School, Cost: FREE but booking is required “I“ like to be active with friends rather than stay at homeh doing nothing. I usually play football, cricket Age: 8-13 Shrewsbury Road, W22 5PW5PW andan table-tennis and I get to go bowling and Sports and arts programme for Venue: Sussex Street PPlaylay Project – ice-skatingice every Friday.” young people with activities 3-13 Sussex St, SW1VV 4RZ including football, basketball, Tel: 020 7641 1107 swimming, drama, creative writing KaiKa Fearon-Cousins, 6, Queen’s Park Cost: £22 per week foror and cooking. “D“During the holidays I like coming to the club Westminster residents,s, £11 at Paddington Recreation Ground to play Venue: Academy Sport, per week concessionss forfor fofootball, basketball, draw and make sculptures.. Westminster Academy, unemployed families. I likeli coming here instead of staying at home 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ anand watching TV.” Venue: The Avenues Youth Project, Handcrafted doll W10 4RS exhibition ToT find out more about what’s on near you, call Venue: Churchill Gardens Youth Dates: Friday 2nd 002020 7641 7929, email [email protected] Club, SW1V 3AL October - Saturday 31st October oro visit www.westminster.gov.uk/wow Tel: 020 7641 2012 Age: 11+ Cost: £1 per person per day Come and view the We can help with childcare costs Multi-sports sessions magniﬁ cent award Dates: Monday 26th October – winning work of f you use registered childcare you may be entitled to get 16 hours or more per week (special arrangements in Thursday 29th October, 10am-3pm international doll some of the costs back through the Government’s Working some cases) – or a lone parent working 16 hours or maker Pauline Straker. I Age: 8-12 Tax Credit scheme, depending on how much you earn. more per week. Pauline will also be Venue: The Hub, Regent’s Park, To be eligible for the childcare element of the scheme, running craft workshopsps Call us on 020 7641 7929 to find out if you are eligible. Outer Circle, NW1 4RU for young people. you must be either a couple – with both partners working

16 The Westminster Reporter TheThe Westminster ReporterReporter 1717 AINMENT COMMUNITIES SPORT FASHION ART SPORT FA ON ART ENTERTAINMENT COMMUNITIE FASHION COMM ES SPORT ART ENTERTAINMENTNRTAINMENT COMMUN Community reassurance SAFE PORT FASHION ART SPORT FASHION ART ENTERTAINME IN WESTMINSTER OMMBLACKUNITIES FASHION CO HISTORYMMUNITIES SPORT ART FA SH NTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT COMMUNITIES SPORT ON ARTMONTH SPORT FASHION ART 2009 ENTERTAINMENT COMMUN There’s something for everyone ‘When residents come to enjoy during Black History Month in October. to us we can really =PZP[!^^^^LZ[TPUZ[LYNV]\RIOTL]LU[ZU[Z *HSS! ,THPS!HTZTP[O'^LZ[TPUZ[LYNV]\R make a difference’ FREE The police and the council work together all year round to keep theheecitysafe city safe events and tackle speciﬁ c local issues. Police Constable Muneeb Ishtiaq itfthis part of the Churchill Safer Neighbourhood Team, a team of police ofﬁ cers dedicated to one area and working with local people. He tells us about his work.

orking in the team gives me the chance to do area had made complaints about noise and anti-social “Wwhat I enjoy most, and that is the community behaviour for years and were so thankful afterwards. side of policing. We work regularly with the council “Many times when I am on patrol, people stop me which helps to provide us with more resources and talk about the things that affect them and different ways to help solve local problems. personally - this gives our team the ability to help the community in the way that it wants. “Working closely with people Our meetings with local volunteers, street in the community is extremely briefings and drop in surgeries all help us rewarding, especially when we see gauge which issues are most important our work make a difference.” to address. “I think recently the public has seen results on PC Muneeb Ishtiaq how we tackle anti-social behaviour, and “Working closely with people in the people are now happier to speak to us. community is extremely rewarding, I would like to strengthen our especially when we see our links with the community, work make a difference. because when residents For example, we recently feel confident enough completed the first to come to us with closure of a residential their problems then property in we can really make Westminster. a difference.” Residents of the by Emma Norton To find out how you can contact the people who keep you safe in your area, including your Safer Neighbourhood Team, read your enclosed copy of the Safer Westminster booklet.

PC Muneeb Ishtiaq 18 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 19 SAFE Safe and clean streets Safe and clean streets SAFE IN WESTMINSTER IN WESTMINSTER Magniﬁ cent The other Magniﬁ cent Seven projects are: Seven ride • a £3.5million restoration of Portman Square • a £2.4million scheme to into Westminster improve the public squares in Theatreland Seven major developments are planned to transform • a £2million improvement to central London in time for the 2012 Olympics. St Martin’s Lane • a £2.7million extension of the We focus on three of them. Legible London scheme. by Joe Chalmers

To find out more information on A jam free Piccadilly Circus the Magnificent Seven please visit www.westminster.gov.uk/ iccadilly Circus could be freed from Steve McNamara fromm magnificentseven Ptraffic jams thanks to a £10millon the London Taxi overhaul allowing millions of people Drivers Association,, easy access to the world famous said: “The West End of The council is also implementing London is the heart off a its Oxford, Regent and Bond Street landmark. Council bosses want to thriving working city. Westminster end the queues in car-clogged businesses and residents depend on Action Plan to improve the retail Piccadilly, Lower Regent Street, Pall the West End running smoothly so streets. For more information, visit Mall and St James’s Street by re- anything that will improve the flow of www.westminster.gov.uk/orb traffic would be greatly welcomed.” introducing two way traffic systems. Star treatmentnt for Leicester SSquarequare Aldwych face liftft

n £18million revamp of SarahSa Porter, CEOEO here are plans for a Aldwych CllrCll Colin Barrow, Leicester Squre (artist’s impression) ALeicester Square, of the Heart of T£2.5million programme to LeLeader of Westminsterr famous for its Hollywood LLondono Businessss help cyclists and pedestrians gett CCityit Council, said: AAlliance, said: “T“These Magnificent film premieres, is due to “T“This investment wwillill around Aldwych by wideningening SeSeven projects will helpp begin in April 2011. This will hhelpe re-establish pavements, improving trtransforma the centre of our include a 200-metre ‘ribbon’’ LLeicestere Square as the cycle hire facilities and ccapitala ahead of 2012 when the enentertainment gateway to the eyeyes of the world will be upon us of white granite to provide installing a pedestrian WWest End and contribute to anand visitors will rightly expect to be more seating, bronze railingss ouour shared vision of crossing in by Lancaster eqequally impressed with London’s and gates as well as trtransforming the area into Place. The crossing is duee sstreets,t hotels, restaurants, shops landscaped gardens and oone of London’s must-see to be in place before the anand transport as they are with the ddestinations.” wworld’s top sporting talent.” decorative lighting. end of 2009.

20 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 21 SAFE Community reassurance Parks SAFE IN WESTMINSTER IN WESTMINSTER ‘You really ‘I love the charm of accomplish something unexpected places’ with community payback’ Did you Westminster has more Green Flags than any other know... Your ...Westminster has Offenders in Westminster get a chance to give something back by doing London borough. 18 of our open spaces are rated 56 parks, gardens and unpaid community work, such as removing grafﬁ ti or gardening. As part of as among the cleanest, safest and best maintained favourites open spaces. the Community Payback programme, they learn new skills and at the same pgparks in the UK. Here are some of the hidden gems. time help improve the local area. uncovered St. Anne’s Churchyard in Soho is the smallest UK park to win a ork is underway at a private Since then his attitude has changed. Green Flag. It is home to a futuristic garden near St George’s “ We get a good reaction He said: “We get a good reaction W egg shaped toilet pod that doubles Square, managed by Edward Reeve. from the public... it gives from the public. They know what we as a community art gallery, designed He said: “The garden needs manual are doing and why, but it gives me a me a real boost because for local children, community labour to cut bushes, clear rubbish real boost because I’m doing I’m doing something groups and disabled users. and paint railings. It will look very positive and paying back something positive and paying back the community. St. John’s Gardens is bathed in the community. ” history with a cemetery that was At work in St George’s Square “You really accomplish something Gary, once a popular burial ground for Community Payback participant when you get to the end, and you can see how it looked when you poor Londoners, particularly nice and smart when it’s finished started and how nice it looks when prostitutes and beggars. Due to and it will be much easier to you leave.” this popularity, the ground is a DavidDavid MillMillardard, 66, sayssays of Victoria Embankment Gardens: “I come manage in the future.” Probation Service Manager Ian Davis few feet higher than the toto the park every day especially when the bands arere playing.”playing. He has worked alongside many said the scheme makes offenders surrounding area to this day. of the offenders, and believes them aware of the effect of their actions. ValerieV Beal, 67, visits Whitehall Gardens at least a Victoria Embankment Gardens, when they say they don’t want to “Most participants respond very well couplecoupl of times a week, and says: “It’s a peaceful placee which in summer contains reoffend. This sentiment is echoed to making up for what they’ve done. to stop on your way to somewhere else.”” spectacular flower beds, welcomes by 47-year-old Community They work in the borough they live in thousands of daily visitors, workers, Payback participant Gary, who was because that’s the community they BridgetBr Hardy, 46, also at Victoria Embankment, ssays:ays: tourists and local residents who initially sceptical after being told should pay back to.” ““I have worked in Westminster for 20 years and today I found a come to enjoy the free summer nnew woodland pathway. I love the charm of unexpected places and by the courts to do unpaid work. by Lorelle Silveira performances at the bandstand. vivisitings tranquil parts of London.” IfIf you have a project you would like Community Payback to carry out, call 002020 7641 1085 or email [email protected] To ffindiind a paparkrk nnear you, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/parks or email [email protected]

22 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 23 Swine ﬂ u We are ready to help you through swine ﬂ u

NHSN Westminster, Westminster City Council ChrisCh Spearing, 31, from Bayswater:Ba “I’ve noticed I’m washing aand other local agencies have been What you can do mym hands more since swine flu began. wworking closely together for years to prepare I haven’th had it yet,t, so hopefully to limit the risk it’sit’ helping!” fforo a ﬂ u pandemic. There are robust pplans in place to ensure you are as safe of infection TiffanyTiffa Kenyon, 30,0, fromf StS John’sh Wood:d “I always carry a aas possible. By following good hygiene practices, you can pack of tissues with me and antibacterialal gel. The gel is really useful after comingg protect yourself and others from infection. off public transport.”t.” estminster has a good stockpile A vaccinevaccineto to protect against swine asthma. More information about This will also help slow the spread of swine ﬂ u. Wof antiviral drugs (including flu is expected in October. The priority groups is available at Tamiflu and Relenza) for local residents. government has announced priority www.nhs.uk and ifyou are in a Remember to: EqbalEq Farah, who works in In the UK, there are enough antivirals groups for the first doses of the priority group, your GP will write to Westminster:W “I have a 6 year old son • Always carry tissues. andan make sure he washes his hands to treat more than 33 million people vaccine. This includes at-risk groups you about getting a vaccine. whenw he gets in from school, before (half the UK population), and there for normal seasonal flu such as those by Lucy Davis, NHS Westminster • Use clean tissues to cover your mouth and he eats and after using the toilet. I show are plans to increase this. with heart disease, diabetes or nose when you cough and sneeze. himhim how to wash his hands ppproperly.” y • Bin the tissues after one use.

• Wash your hands with soap and hot water Washing your hands limits the risk of infection What you can do to prepare or a sanitiser gel often. • Always carry tissues – catching the germs in a tissue could help limit the spread of fl u. • Wipe down hard surfaces such as door • Buy a thermometer so you can check if your temperature rises above 38°C. handles and desktops often using a normall • Have supplies of paracetamol and cold or fl u remedies. cleaning product. • Confi rm your ‘fl u friends’– these are friends or neighbours who ccanan help you if you become ill (see more on page 26). • Know your NHS number (on your NHS letters or prescriptions) ssoo we can fi nd your health records. • Have supplies of prescription medicine such as asthma inhalers or insulin. • Stock upp on food supplies such as tins, freezer food, long life milkilk or jjuice.uice. • K Keep up to date with the latest advice availablele ththrough radio, TV and the internet.

TTo find out more about how you can prepare, visit www.nhs.uk or call 0800 1 513 513.

2424 The Westminster ReporteReporterr The Westminster Reporter 25 Swine fl u Swine fl u What you should know Now is the time to What is swine fl u? ‘I had swine fl u’ Swine fl u is the common name given to select your fl u friend a new strain of infl uenza (fl u), which is Like the vast majority of cases, when Sarah Rushton, 47, contracted thought to have originated in pigs. In Flu friends are healthy relatives, neighbours, friends or colleagues most cases, the virus has proved swine fl u it was a relatively mild illness. Sarah, who works in Westminster, who will collect medicines, food and other supplies for you if you relatively mild. However, scientists say recovered by taking paracetamol, drinking lots of fl uids and resting. we need to be careful because the risk get the fl u. They will help you recover as you don’t have to leave is not clear and the virus could mutate home and this will help prevent the spread of the virus. She tells the Reporter of her experience. or become stronger. t is a good idea to have at least one exexplained:plai “We have y main symptoms were an aching body, a bad headache combined What are the symptoms of Iflu friend, preferably more. You couldd hadhad some people “Mwith extreme tiredness and a raised temperature. I also had a sore swine fl u? also consider becoming a flu friend to a tturnu up to our throat, mild earache and a loss of appetite. A fever or a high temperature (over neighbour or friend who may live alone.. centrece who have “I was completely out of action for the first three days. I was then able to 38°C/100.4°F) and at least two of the PaulPau and ththe flu. It’s really potter around the house for the next two days. The following week I was following: unusual tiredness, headache, MMeaghane Wylie,, importantimp that still very tired and had to limit what I did. runny nose, sore throat, shortness of bbotho 30, from peoplepeopl with the flu breath or a cough, loss of appetite, MaidaM Vale, said: stay at hdbhome and get better. They aching muscles, diarrhoea or vomiting. “ I recommend you use the National “We’re“W married should ask their flu friend to collect What should I do if I think I so if one of us their medication for them.” Pandemic Flu Service. I found it useful to have swine fl u? comescome down with get telephone advice. The important thing You should check your symptoms swineiflllhlh flu we’ll help the other one out. “ It’s really important that online by visiting the National Pandemic But if we’re both ill we’ve asked a friend people with the fl u stay at is to take enough time to recover properly.” Flu Service website www.direct.gov.uk/ who lives close by to be our flu friend.” home and get better. They Sarah Rushton pandemicfl u or by calling 0800 1 513 SirinSiri Hassan, 17, should ask their fl u friend 100 (0800 1 513 200 for Textphone). fromfrom Edgware to collect their medication “Initially, I was quite worried because of all the media coverage about swine flu. When should I call my doctor? Road,Ro said: “My for them.” But I soon realised that my symptoms were not becoming any more severe and I had dadda and I are my experienced a worse flu when I was in my 20s – so I stopped worrying. You should contact your doctor direct Andreas Marcous, if you have swine fl u symptoms and: littlelit sister’s flu Antiviral Collection Point Manager “I did not take Tamiflu as I am otherwise fit and healthy with no underlying medical • you have a serious underlying illness friends.frie We helped conditions and I don’t live with anyone else who would be especially vulnerable. I was • you are pregnant herher ddo the online Make sure you know where your advised that the most important thing to do was to control my raised • you have a sick child under one assessment anddll collected her tamiflu. ID is because your flu friend will need temperature. To do this I took the maximum dose of paracetamol every year old We’re also looking after her, cooking it in case they have to collect antiviral four hours, kept cool and drank plenty of water. • your condition suddenly gets her meals and making sure she’s medication (Tamiflu) for you. “If you think you have swine flu, I recommend you use much worse drinking lots of water.” They will also need their own ID the National Pandemic Flu Service. I found it useful to • your condition is still getting worse Andreas Marcous, an antiviral such as a passport, driving licence or get telephone advice. The important thing is to after seven days (fi ve for a child). Collection Point Manager in Westminster, credit card. take enough time to recover properly.” by Lucy Davis, NHS Westminster To find out more about how you can To help you remember your flu friends and their phone numbers, prepare, visit www.nhs.uk or call you can pick up a form at GP surgeries and libraries, or download it at To check your symptoms or find out more about swine flu, call the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 513. www.westminster-pct.nhs.uk 0800 1 513 100 (0800 1 513 200 for Textphone) or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu

Sarah Rushton 26 The Westminster Reporter TheThThehe WWeWestminsterstmststtmminsnsnsterte ReporterReeporpop tererer 2727 New sport Westminster’s and community newest market is centre helps you stay fi t a hit in Maida Hill Maida Hill Market The new £4.5million council-run The fi rst traditional street market to open in Westminster for 50 years is bringing centre in Little Venice, on Compton new life to Harrow Road. The Reporterpp spoke to three market traders. Street, boasts a four-court sports hall, dance studio and fi tness suite.

s a visitor you can take part in a range of sports Aincluding Badminton, Netball, Basketball, Volleyball, Dance and Martial Arts. Many local residents have already signed up for membership, which despite the state-of- the-art facilities will remain at a similar low cost to other local sports centres.ce

Little Venice Sports Centre EJEJ De Los Santos, who works at the new centre sasaid: “This is a great facility for the local Councillor Ed ArArgar,gar, Westminster CitCityy CouncilCouncil’s’sCabinet Cabinet cocommunity. It’s a fantastic building and I’m sure it Gillian Clark Natalie Ergatides Leroy Muhammad wwilli be extremely popular.” Member for Adult and Community Services, said: “Staying fit and healthy should not be an expensive luxury. Council illian Clarke runs a flower stall at own businessbusiness,”” Natalie saidsaid. ““WhatWhat I Harrow Road Neighbourhood The centre is just one part of the council’s efforts to GMaida Hill Market near Harrow find most satisfying is creating recipes Partnership. The improvements include improve sports provision in Westminster and was part paid “ Council run gyms and leisure centres provide Road and has lived in the area for 32 that my customers really enjoy.” new paving, lighting, increased police for with £1.6 million of external funding. It means every excellent value for money, and we have some years. She said: “I feel pleased to Leroy Muhammad, 57, has lived in patrols and extra CCTV. The council resident in Westminster is now within a twenty minute of the best facilities in the capital.” work on something that boosts the the area since 1965. He sells will also revamp Church Street and walk of at least three sports facilities, making Westminster area. Before my stall, people in Maida Caribbean, Cajun and Creole dishes. Tachbrook Street markets as part of a Cllr Ed Argar, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, the fourth best borough in the UK for sports provision. Hill had nowhere local to buy flowers. He said: “The market is a wonderful planned £5million£5 project. run gyms and leisure centres provide excellent value for I hope I can establish myself as a local thing for the area. It gives local by Emma Germain JennyJen Garcia, from Little Venice, added that the Special money, and we have some of the best facilities in the florist and bring some colour into people a place to meet and a sense TakeTTa your copy of the Reporter cecentre particularly “provides a great outlet for capital. If you haven’t visited one recentlyently people’s lives.” of pride in their area.” offer! tot Maida Hill Market and get yoyoung people in the area to fill their time 101 pper cent off Gillian’s range of pparticipatinga in positive activities.” you may be in for a pleasant surprise.”.” Natalie Ergatides, 28, runs a food stall The market is a key element of a bblblooms,ooms and a complimentary gift by Tom Allenen with fresh healthy salads and tasty £1million regeneration by the council,l from Natalie’s and Leroy’s tasty stands. Did you breakfasts. “I really wanted to run my supported by local people through the Little Venice Sports Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am-10.30pm and weekends from know... 10am-5.30pm. To find out more, email [email protected] or call 020 7641 5111. To find out what’s on at your nearest market, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/markets ...there are 12 leisure and sports facilities in Westminster.

28 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 29 Recycling Recycling Recycle more and become a Zero Hero There are now more ways to reduce, reuse and recycle in Westminster than ever before. The week of a recycling hero mall items of waste electronic and electrical equipment, • Give items away at the designated Freebies page at Veronica Colella, who has lived in Westminster for 7 years and worked for Westminster Libraries for Ssuch as hair dryers, dvd players or irons, can be taken to www.gumtree.com 11 years, took up the recycling challenge and became a Zero Hero. She shows us her recycling diary. Church Street Market every Saturday for recycling. A cage • Call 020 8871 3924 to find out how you can take your vehicle will be parked on the junction of Church Street items to Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, SW18 1JS. Monday Friday and Salisbury Street (opposite the public conveniences) for • Call 020 7641 2000 to arrange a special collection via • Ordered stationery using the • Tidied the periodicals and the dedicated collection of small electronic items. the council, where we can collect up to 10 items ‘Green index’ on the catalogue that prospectuses section at the library highlights eco-friendly products and removed cardboard boxes; Large electrical and other bulky items can also be recyled including fridges, dishwashers, washing machines, TVs • Collected empty print cartridges and squashed them fl at and took them to – or sold and reused. Here are our top tips: and sofas from your doorstep for £20. ordered recycling inkjet and mobile the recycling point • Offer your unwanted items to others via www.freecycle.org.uk by Seb Monks phone bags from Oxfam • Returned unfi nished prescription Tuesday tablets and medicines to my local To find out more about how you can recycle in Westminster, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/recycling pharmacy to be properly disposed of • Contacted the recycling offi cer to empty the collection box for used Saturday Alison batteries • Donated a full load of books, in • E-mailed the recycling team acceptable condition, to my local Making the most of recycling ([email protected]) to library and to the Oxfam shop order more blue recycling bags for • Despite the lack of a garden AlisonA is an active recycler and lives in a housing association library visitors or terrace, bought a small Wednesday compost bin to make my apartmenta in Bayswater. windowsill plants healthier • Re-used a couple of un-recyclable and happier dessert pots to plant sunfl ower seeds recycle cardboard, tins, plastic bottles and glass jars mainly. I use the blue bags – they are now sprouting in the Sunday “Ifrom the council. I often run out, but they are always happy to send me more window box • Re-used three rrollso when I call them. • Went shopping taking care to glass coffee jars as buy products packed in recyclable beautiful containers “When you look at how much packaging we could easily recycle, as consumers materials and made of recycled paper for grains wwe have a duty to reduce the amount we chuck away. The council provides (toilet rolls); took my ‘bags for life’ to • Created two rrecyclinge as a service so we should make the most of it. But I would also like to see carry all my shopping home useful pot stands sshops and supermarkets taking more responsibility themselves too. Thursday out of used corks that I collected “The mixed recycling door service is really good. There are plenty of drop off • Placed blue bag with my weekly • Re-organised recycling outside my doorstep for ssites around as well for extra things like clothes and the less usual things. my seasonal collection “It’s a shame that not more plastic can be turned back into something useful. clothes and put • Called Environmental Action Line TThe only other thing I could suggest would be to pick up garden and kitchen unwanted items (020 7641 2000) to fi nd out about in the Scope bin wwaste, but then I have a composter so don’t need it.” plastic recycling in Westminster

To find out more about recycling and garden waste collections, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/recycling To find out how you can recycle more at home and at work, and for tips on how you can reuse unrecyclable To order a discounted compost bin, call 0845 130 6090. items, visit www.westminster.gov.uk/zerowaste

Zero Hero Veronica Colella 3030 The Westminster ReReporterporter The Westminster Reporter 31 Recycling Recycling Get rid of your garden ‘It’s never been waste the green way easier to recycle’ Last year, over 1,000 tonnes of garden waste were composted in Westminster – By the end of October 2009, all residents in Westminster will have access to the same weight as 142 double decker buses. a recycling collection for paper, cardboard, cans, plastic bottles and glass bottles and jars. e want to make this figure even higher by recycling reusable bags can be collected. Wyour garden waste in reusable green bags. Composting is also a great environmentally friendly way his is the first time that all Westminster residents will Jane Easton You can fill your green bag with prunings, old flowers of getting rid of garden waste, and ideal for improving Thave a full service – helping everyone, regardless of and houseplants, weeds, grass cuttings and small soil and maintaining healthy gardens. what property you live in, to do your bit for the environment. branches. Unfortunately larger branches, food waste, soil by Libby Jellie and any other rubbish cannot be accepted. Collections “ It’s great that the council has a recycling To find out how you can get your garden waste collected, will take place fortnightly straight from the edge of your visit www.westminster.gov.uk/gardenwaste service for everyone... it’s never been easier property. Only garden waste contained in the green to recycle.” Jane Easton, Westminster resident

Jane Easton, 29, lives in Westminster and regularly uses her recycling service. She said: “I actively try and encourage my housemates to recycle more as it not only reduces the general waste that we produce each week, but gives me the sense that I’m doinggy my bit.

BatteriesBatt can be recycled at your local lillibrary.b Clothes, shoes, belts and bags caccan be recycled at many micro Did you rrerecycling centres across the city. know... TToo ﬁ nd your nearest micro recycling centre,cent visit www.westminster.gov.uk/ recyclingrecyc

“I think it’s great that the council has a recycling service for everyone, regardless of what type of property you live If you have not received any information about this in. In the years I have lived in Westminster, it’s never been service, contact us on 020 7641 2000 or email easier to recycle.” [email protected] by Oliver Parrish

32 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 33 Adoption Westminster wards HE’S THINKING ABOUT YOU TOO Ever thought about adoption? Westminster City Council needs adoptive parents from black and mixed heritage backgrounds.

adoption ‘Every morning I look at my Little Venice ward Considered one of the more exclusive residential districts in central London, son and realise he is ours’ Little Venice’s one square mile contains almost 10,000 residents. The name Little Venice was only widely used after WWII,,y and is commonly attributed to

CatherineC and Andrew Lewis adopted ry Ro a ad nd ou

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e R o y d a oa d d R R a rt o e o lb R A a e ththeir son Matthew three years ago. c A d a i in b c r d b a P a e c A J Par o ll y k R i ohn’

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tot e u cl n f t ir bbaby, including three failed IVF la lili m e r C e r e W C a G ve the canal junction was considered an eyesore: an th a r r F u w Gt Portland Street t l G WarwickWarwick AAvenuevenue S an

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R s R n e o W o t o b ce e e le S n area home to layabouts and ladies of ill-repute. A social a t s y t ar S S r w d M t e tree n a s S e h t y is ay t H d r aattempts, decided to contact Westbourne RoadR w y P t es e ven e N d m i a W r C l e g Edgware Road ew a e o N t w P h c m u l rk a S e a a Road r P ce n e P t rn Ch Royal Oak r t u e S bo Paddington l er S t e m t divide also existed between the local gentry and thethe e es t rti E ee t o W pst d a t Str M R st e ee g r ge o d b r et C ri our St Sq Geo e Tottenham Crt Rd w Rd Glouces s d Str ’s B n r ore h op ne Terrac e fo igm W a r WWestminster’s New Families team. h aed d x W s r i ar a r B O i r n Paddington G treet Oxford Circus d ve t P S g boatmen who lived in their vessels. Gro er t r Re o ne ex S our s t ymou u C b st T gh N r e e Se W e e au et gent r r rr Con re e S o c r e St D s L r Sus T ford w t s A n a d e a Ox r r G c e e s g e S Bond Streetv st i B s St Covent Garden e p n e e ch i R r o t o e t on P s n d L s M te nho h d Arc Marble Arch r a le S ee t rb t a

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atherine, 43, said: “A member of the team visited The Little Venice of today is a far cry from its oorigins.rigins.

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d ABOUT YOU TOO C h e l s e Pimlico C ds a need uncil et la ere City Co B re estminst St nn? W r io s v ut adopt i u ht abo d up er thoug L e EverEv thought about adoption? Westminster City Council needs g

tto the New Families team. She said: “Don’t be fearful; bebeyondyond the superficial charm: e r interesting mix of people.” t R d on

s. S kground bac t xed heritage Ever thought about adoption? Westminsterk and mi City Council needs ts from blac Gro adadoptiveoptive parenparents from black and mixed heritage backgrounds. svenor Road adoptive parents from black and mixed heritage backgrounds. theret are a lot of qualified people to help and support Cllr Ian Adams, Little Venice Ward “Despite the lovely stucco villas, ReRegistergister fforor our iinformationnformation eveeveningning on ThThursdayursdaay 112th2th NoNovember.vev mber. youy along the way.” Little Venice is demodemographicallygraphically ververyy Register for our information evening on Thursday 12th November. “Every morning I look at my son and realise he is Barges with names like “Old Badger” and “Scarlet Pimpernel” varied and we have an interesting mix of people. Our ward CallCall 002020 77641641 44080080 Call 020 7641 4080 ours,”o she said. Matthew is now five and after this line the canal, and water tours are available towards Regent’s includes Maida Vale mansions as well as social housing.” VVisitisit www.westminster.www.westminster.gov.uk/adoptiongov.uk/adoption Visit www.westminster.gov.uk/adoption positive adoption experience his parents have just Park and Camden Town. Other attractions include the Thanks to the council’s Building Neighbourhoods Scheme, begun the process to adopt another child. “We don’t Puppet Theatre BargeBarge,, the Cascade Floating Art GalleryGallery,, the ££100,000 has been provided for the ward to spend on local want Matthew to grow up as an only child,” ppriorities. Residents said they felt controlling speeding cars Catherine explained. “He is such a sociable and aand recycling, parks and open spaces were most important. active child that he would love a sibling to play with.” WWard Councillor Margaret Doyle explained: “We want to adoptionadoption by Yvonne Kumi eensure our money benefits as many people across our adoption Note: The names have been changed for privacy reasons. wward as possible.” by Cherie Willers ToT ffindiind oououtt momorere aaboutbout aadoptiondidoption andan d reserve a pplace lace at tthe he nnexte information evening on Thursday 12th November, call 020 7641 4080 or email [email protected] You can read about Churchill ward in the next Reporter.

34 The Westminster Reporter The Westminster Reporter 35 CS-28-A-0909 backpage

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