High schools: Autumn 2020 Time to apply p16 Shining savings: Energy and bills p28 At your leisure: ealingnewsextra.co.uk | /EalingLondon | @EalingNewsExtra Centres reopen p33
New term and new careers Schools p9 / jobs p20
ACTON EALING GREENFORD HANWELL NORTHOLT PERIVALE SOUTHALL ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL a minimis incipe
Outstanding Catholic Independent school for boys & girls aged 3 - 18
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 3 October SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Thursday 8 October
In light of the ever-changing Covid-19 situation, we have increased the number of Open Mornings for the Autumn Term in order to ensure all prospective families can visit the school while keeping everyone safe. These include virtual Open Mornings. View our website for a full list of our Open Events or arrange a personal visit with our Registrar, Louise Pepper, on 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk
around_ealing_full_page_july_2020.indd 1 24/07/2020 12:46:58 AUTUMN20 EDITORIAL
elcome to the autumn edition of Around Ealing magazine, covering W September, October and November. The next edition should be out in early December. 28 September brings the start of a new academic year and an unusual ‘back to school’ moment, with a number of pupils returning to classrooms for the first time in months after the interruption caused by the pandemic. Likewise, older students will be back at college. Consequently, you will find plenty relating to this in the front half of this edition. And, with many people being concerned about job security with the government’s furlough scheme 26 coming to an end in October, we again also look at some of the options in terms of local help available to residents (p20-21). The rest of the magazine looks at a wide range of subjects, from climate action to local travel; and from rough sleeping to fostering. We also spoke to more local businesses on how they have been dealing with the coronavirus challenges. Richard Nadal 38 24 EDITOR
ealingnewsextra.co.uk CONTENTS @EalingNewsExtra facebook.com/EalingLondon 4 LEADER’S NOTES: 24 OPEN FOR BUSINESS: PUBLISHER Councillor Julian Bell Local firms post-COVID Ealing Council, Communications, Perceval House, 14‑16 Uxbridge Road, Ealing W5 2HL, Tel: 020 8825 5000 on finances 26 ACTIVE TRAVEL : EDITOR 6 UP FRONT: Low traffic neighbourhoods Richard Nadal, [email protected] Libraries, remembrance 28 HOME FRONT: ADVERTISING [email protected] and more Save energy and money Distribution: 138,000 copies. 9 SCHOOL RETURN: 30 REFUGEE STATUS: Ealing Council does not accept responsibility for goods or Tips, test and trace Rough sleepers plan services offered by advertisers. Opinion expressed in this magazine is not necessarily that of the council. 11 SCHOOL STREETS: 33 LEISURE CENTRES: Please use your blue recycling bin Autumn 2020 High schools: Friendly travel takeover when you dispose of this and Time to apply p16 Open to you again Shining savings: Energy and bills ealingnewsextra.co.uk | p28 /EalingLondon | @EalingNewsExtra At your leisure: other magazines. Centres reopen p33 13 WELLBEING FIRST: 35 FOSTERING ROYALTY: Mental health at school MBE for local carer 16 APPLY NOW New term : 38 BEFORE YOU GO: and new careers
High school places Schools p9 Join in big clean-up / jobs p20
20 JOBS AND SKILLS: at Alec Reed Academy. has led Olivia to a new career FRONT COVER: An apprenticeship
ACTON EALING GREENFORD HANWELL NORTHOLT PERIVALE SOUTHALL Career support Around Ealing Autumn 20_v8.indd 1
23/08/2020 17:22 around ealing Autumn 2020 3 ‘If the government does not Leader’s keep its promise, there will be very tough times ahead’ Notes Councillor Julian Bell Leader of the council
HOLE IN BUDGET – AND SHORTFALL But the bad news is that we still have a hole in our budget because of COVID-19 of £35.5million. And, before the lockdown, the council was already forecasting a separate £12million unfunded financial pressure for this year; much of this arising from an increase in the support the council is required to give to local children with special £65m educational needs. bill for Added together, the two figures give an COVID-19 estimated total shortfall of £47.5million this year. espite our efforts to protect brought, and the Without more help we, residents and businesses government committed like many local authorities, during the coronavirus to giving us the resources will struggle to be able to fund emergency, the council has we need to do the work. We need it to vital services. Cuts will be an awful, but beenD left with a large budget gap and keep its promise. inevitable, outcome. we are now in a position where critical Our coronavirus bill has reached By law, the council must deliver a services, that so many rely on, are £65million, through funding things like balanced budget. being put at risk. the Ealing Together response and also We are doing all we can at our Ealing Council’s cabinet has lost income, lost business rates and end for now, with the strict new agreed to introduce strict and lost council tax. However, spending controls, including a wide-ranging controls on the government recruitment freeze and a stop on new spending as it seeks to initially allocated spending commitments. balance its budget; just £26million to And we will be lobbying government, but we urgently Ealing, leaving with other local councils, for the rest of need help. £47.5m £39million the promised COVID-19 funding. Local authorities shortfall outstanding. It have led the way then announced TOUGH TIMES AHEAD? in meeting the 2020‑21 a further £3million This is a very serious situation for local unprecedented would be coming councils, which have already been challenges that the our way, which is through more than a decade of cuts to COVID-19 pandemic obviously welcome. funding from the government. In Ealing
4 around ealing Autumn 2020 LEADER’S NOTES
£143m funds lost since 2009
alone, our government grant has been cut by £143million and we now get just one-third of what we were given in 2009. Nevertheless, through prudent financial management, and our Future Ealing transformation programme, we have been managing to deliver balanced budgets year after year. But there is only so much we can do; and there are We need to continue to be vigilant to keep new cases of COVID-19 as low also only so many ways in which we as possible and to stop the spread of this terrible virus. Everyone needs to can realistically call on residents to step do lots of hand washing; keep the two-metre social distancing going, where up to play their part – such as in the possible; and follow the rules. Wearing face coverings is compulsory in ways you have been providing fantastic shops and supermarkets, and on public transport. It is also now mandatory support in keeping the borough clean, in many other indoor spaces – please see a list on the next page (p6). It has keeping libraries open and helping your been shown to help stop the spread of the virus, so we owe it to ourselves vulnerable neighbours. and each other to wear face coverings. Also, please read the information Ealing is a responsible and well- on test and trace in this magazine (pages eight-nine) and online. If you have managed council but, unfortunately, come into contact with anybody who has tested COVID positive, then self- we have been left with a huge COVID isolate. If you have any symptoms yourself then make sure you get a test bill that we will struggle to pay. If the and continue to self-isolate while you are waiting for a result. And, if you are government does not keep its promise, positive, self-isolate. This will help to save lives. there will be very tough times ahead. It is deeply worrying. Find out more about how you As we move into a new school term, it is important to acknowledge what an can help the council in asking unusual year it has been for both pupils and teachers. As if the pandemic, the government to keep its and the accompanying disruption, were not difficult enough to deal with, promise, and watch a video, at our A-level and GCSE students were unable to sit their exams. They could www.ealing.gov.uk/keepyourpromise not give an account of themselves in the normal way and a number of our young people were left very disappointed with the way the A-level results were initially allocated. Thankfully, in the end, Ofqual announced that teacher assessments would be used. We know schools have been supporting their pupils through this strange time and I wish everyone the best for the year ahead.
around ealing Autumn 2020 5 UP FRONT
Community heroes
A new local honours scheme has been recognising those who made a difference during the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents were asked over the summer to nominate people or organisations for the Ealing Together Honours and those nominated will be receiving a personal letter of thanks from the Mayor of Ealing and the Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Ealing. The council intends to hold a future event, when it is safe Face coverings to do so, to celebrate the community response. Ealing Together launched on 24 March, the day after We are all required to wear a face covering in a range of lockdown began. It is a collaboration between the council, indoor places and when traveling on public transport to help community groups, charities, businesses and concerned stop the spread of COVID-19. Entry can be refused to anyone residents who joined forces to take care of the most not wearing one – and the police can issue fines of up to £100. vulnerable residents. By the end of July, more than 20,000 At the time of going to press, everyone was required to wear requests for help had been received through the Ealing face coverings: Together phone line and website (ealingtogether.org). n On public transport n In premises providing n At indoor transport hubs professional, legal or (airports, rail and tram financial services Mind your health stations and terminals, n In nail, beauty, hair salons maritime ports and and barbers – other than The council is urging all residents to take care of their terminals, bus and coach where necessary to remove mental wellbeing during the coronavirus crisis and stations and terminals) for treatments has produced a webpage listing where to get help n In shops and supermarkets n In massage parlours and support if you need it, as well as information on n In indoor shopping centres n In places of worship how to protect and improve your mental health and n In banks, building n In libraries and public wellbeing in your everyday life. Visit www.ealing.gov.uk/ societies, and post offices reading rooms mentalhealth n In cinemas n In community centres If you, or someone you know, is struggling with their n In theatres n In social clubs mental health and experiencing distress, or if you want n In bingo halls n In tattoo and piercing urgent advice about mental health, call West London n In concert halls parlours Mental Health Trust on 0300 1234 244. It is open 24 n n In indoor entertainment hours a day, seven days a week. In museums, galleries, aquariums, indoor zoos venues (amusement arcades, or visitor farms, or other funfairs, adventure activities) indoor tourist, heritage or n At storage and On Remembrance Sunday (8 November) and on cultural sites distribution facilities Armistice Day (11 November) the country will stop n In funeral directors n At veterinary services for a two-minute silence at 11am to commemorate n In public areas in hotels n In auction houses. the sacrifice of our armed forces, past and present. and hostels For updates on the traditional services that In addition, the advice is to also wear one anywhere where normally take place on Remembrance Sunday in social distancing may be difficult and where contact is likely Ealing, Greenford and Southall, keep an eye on with people you do not normally meet. Children under 11 and the council’s Twitter and Facebook accounts and those with certain disabilities are exempt. ealingnewsextra.co.uk nearer to the time. For the latest information on face coverings, visit gov.uk
6 around ealing Autumn 2020 UP FRONT
Equalities review Book in As we reported in the last edition, Ealing Council is appointing a a visit commission to look into inequalities in the borough and also to hold a review of the public realm – such as road names – to see how they The first of our might better reflect Ealing’s diverse communities. libraries has reopened The equalities commission is due to be discussed at a meeting of the after being forced to council’s cabinet in September. It is expected to have an independent close because of the co-chairperson appointed and will be tasked with producing coronavirus crisis. recommendations on how Ealing can better address disparities of life Ealing Central Library will look and chances, health, educational outcomes and income in our borough. feel significantly different with social distancing An online forum was held over the summer with local groups, to explore the measures in place, including queuing, a one-way realities of societal and structural racism; and to look at realistic action that system and a one-in-one-out policy. And a face might provide solutions to these issues. It is planned to hold these regularly. covering will have to be worn to be allowed entry. Services will be limited for the time being to returning items and using the click and collect service. An Ealing Library Card gives you access to all Winners to be revealed libraries across the borough and there are still plenty of online resources available to library members, including e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and e-newspapers, all free of charge. Visit www.ealing.gov.uk/libraries to find out more. Transformations
The council’s Transform your Space (TyS) is helping The winners of Ealing Sports Awards 2020 are due to local projects to transform be announced soon – recognising amazing local athletes, underused and unloved volunteers, coaches and sports clubs. areas into valuable local Ealing Council again teamed up with local leisure provider assets for both local people Everyone Active to bring the awards to the borough for a and the environment. fourth successive year. It is all about celebrating the hard work TyS is designed to and dedication of local people playing and coaching sport empower local people by across the borough. putting them in charge of shaping their chosen There are nine categories and those shortlisted for an award project, and provides guidance, advice and, this year cover such a wide range of sports: Swimming, football, in some cases, funding along the way. It has cricket, handball, trampoline, boxing, BMX, netball, angling, supported all kinds of schemes, from street art in hockey, judo, martial arts and croquet. Acton to a grape and honey farm in Greenford. Keep an eye on ealingnewsextra.co.uk for news of the Residents can get involved with the winners. Find out more about the shortlist at projects directly by volunteering as well as ealingnewsextra.co.uk/features/ealing-sports-awards-2020 contributing to the crowdfunding drive. Visit www.dosomethinggood.org.uk for details.
around ealing Autumn 2020 7
BACK TO SCHOOL
Keep Ealing safe
It is important that all residents continue to follow social distancing rules, making changes to their regular routine where possible. And this applies to the school run, too, as students go back to school in September – Jack Butler reports.
ne way we can be safer is have been very low over the summer. It by avoiding the enclosed is really important that we keep following Prevent the spread spaces of public transport the public health guidance so that we n Maintain social distancing and, because of social can ensure rates do not go up and so (ideally two metres) when outside Odistancing, capacity is reduced on that we can continue to save lives.” n public transport anyway. Councillor Yvonne Johnson, cabinet Limit social gatherings and member for schools and children, time spent in crowded places WALKING AND CYCLING added: “All schools will have their own n Wear face coverings in We know that more than 80% of pupils specific plans for returning to school crowded public spaces. This at primary schools live less than one and parents and carers should make is compulsory for shops and mile from their school – a distance sure they follow these rules closely, public transport which can usually be walked in 20 along with the wider coronavirus safety n Wash your hands regularly minutes. And at high schools it is more guidelines. This way, we can make sure with soap and water (or use than half of pupils, with another 25% the return to school is as seamless as hand gel sanitiser) only a little further away – a 20-minute possible for everyone.” n ‘Catch it, bin it, kill it’ – carry cycle ride for most young people. Stay up to date with the latest tissues and use them Active travel is one way of reducing information at www.ealing.gov.uk/ n Stay at home as soon as the risk of spread of COVID-19, and coronavirus and keep in touch with anyone in the household has also a great way of staying fit. And, by your school. symptoms avoiding using the car, you are helping to cut pollution and improve air quality. CONTROLLING ANY OUTBREAK n Follow the test and trace Ealing Council has created a plan to rules (including applying for a FOLLOWING GUIDANCE help prevent the virus spreading in test as soon as you develop Councillor Binda Rai, Ealing Council’s the borough and to control the virus symptoms). Find out more cabinet member for health and adult in the event of a local outbreak, in at www.nhs.uk/conditions/ services, said: “Thanks to the huge partnership with all other London coronavirus-covid-19/testing- sacrifice that residents have made during boroughs. You can see more at and-tracing the coronavirus outbreak, Ealing’s rates www.ealing.gov.uk/covidgettested
around ealing Autumn 2020 9
SCHOOL TRAVEL Friendly street takeover After much preparation and anticipation, the first ever Ealing School Streets will begin in September. Perivale Primary and St John Fisher Catholic Primary will be the first to have permanent School Streets, but there are many more to come.
WHAT IS A SCHOOL STREET? Find out more on the permanent “These temporary School Streets will School Streets is a scheme being led School Streets at www.ealing.gov.uk/ be managed by the schools themselves, by Ealing Council which will see streets ealingschoolstreets using moveable lightweight barriers. This near a school being closed to traffic allows a greater space around school at school opening and closing times, SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MORE entrances for families all travelling to the making them pedestrian- and cycle- Councillor Yvonne Johnson, deputy same place, making social distancing only zones. This helps to achieve a safer, leader of the council and cabinet member easier as well as facilitating active travel. more pleasant environment for everyone for schools and children’s services, said: Encouraging children to walk, cycle and using the streets while maintaining “Because of the impacts of COVID-19, scoot plays a role in reducing congestion access for residents and businesses the council’s school travel team has been and air pollution around the school gates within the designated zone, and all firing on all cylinders to facilitate the and is also great for children’s mental pedestrians and cyclists. Some School safe return to schools for families by and physical health.” Streets will have physical barriers, enabling social distancing on the school Visit www.ealing.gov.uk/transport and some will have ANPR (automatic journey. As well as footway markings for more on the temporary measures number plate recognition) cameras to outside school entrances, they have also – click on ‘emergency COVID-19 enforce the closure. They will all have been preparing the launch of temporary transport measures’. signs to inform drivers of the restrictions. School Streets at 14 schools. PLAYSTREETS FOR SCHOOLS With schools going back in September, it might also be a good time to consider hosting a PlayStreet at yours. They function in a similar way to a temporary School Streets, but only with closures allowed up to once a month. The intention is to allow and encourage safe play, therefore sessions usually take place after school for a two-hour period. For more information, visit www.egfl.org.uk/services-children/ playstreets-schools
around ealing Autumn 2020 11 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE GRAND UNION MULTI-ACADEMY TRUST WELCOME TO WOODLANDS ACADEMY
Offering Pupils Wide Ranging Opportunities to Succeed in Life at their Local Primary and Nursery School in Ealing.
Recently rated “Good” by Ofsted and set in large grounds, Woodlands Primary offers an all-through experience from Nursery (30 hours local area and The London Broncos, who are opportunities for all its pupils. Woodlands provision available) to Year 6 as well as a keen supporters of the school, acting as mentors are looking forward to welcoming parents to successful breakfast club and after school care. and tutors to pupils and helping run sporting see the school for themselves. The school values good academic events throughout the year. Woodlands pupils achievement, coupled with excellence in are making excellent academic progress and Follow us: music, creative arts and sports. have had access to specialist teachers from @woodlandsschoolealing Woodlands have been proud to work with their partner school Featherstone High. the professional musicians Hattie Whitehead The primary school works very closely @WoodlandsW13 and Laura Jayne Hunter, orchestras from the with the local community, supporting T: 0208 998 2479 charities such as The Felix Project and St. E: [email protected] Woodlands Mungos. The school works in partnership Hathway Gardens, W13 0DH with local businesses, forging close links www.woodlands.ealing.sch.uk Academy to enhance their curriculum and learning
CHOOSING THE BEST HIGH SCHOOL
Featherstone’s most talented singers meet cricket legend, Shane Warne, picking and musicians scooped the “Encore” Ealing up plenty of tips for the season. The girls’ Borough Music Award with a set of incredible cricket team also became Middlesex Indoor performances and Year 12 Young Enterprise Cricket Champions this year. students won “Best Product” at the Capita Featherstone continues its work, as part of Awards London for their environmentally the Grand Union Multi-Academy Trust, with FHS friendly, handmade language puzzles. partner school Woodlands Academy, sharing Drama students were thrilled to welcome expertise and resources. director and producer, Michael Attenborough From the fantastic annual Art Exhibition & Featherstone High School who gave them a masterclass in acting and Dance Festival, to the Wonderful World of Words Celebrates Another brought some of Shakespeare’s plays to life. Festival, the Jack Petchy Speak Out competition The Old Vic visited the Sixth Form to give and charity events such as Sport Relief and Successful Year. students creative workshops to equip them with Children In Need, the school continues to show Despite the disruptions, it has been an exciting employability skills for the future. Sixth formers that, whatever the criteria: academic, creative, and productive year at Featherstone High. also got stuck into some gardening, helping plant social and sporting, this is an exceptional school. The school enjoyed excellent results and was trees to complete 5 new orchards in Southall! once more placed in the top 5% schools in the The school enjoyed another highly Follow us: country for GCSE progress. Staff celebrated as successful Science Week filled with various @featherstonehigh Dilmeet Singh started his course at Cambridge activities from robotics to forensics, mind @FeatherstoneHS and FHS achieved the much coveted Wellbeing blowing experiments and lectures from scientists Montague Waye, UB2 5HF for Schools Award for its outstanding work in including Lord Professor Robert Winston. supporting students and staff. Cricketing students were lucky enough to www.featherstonehigh.ealing.sch.uk
Featherstone Ad Sch20_v4.indd 18 04/08/2020 10:50 MENTAL HEALTH
Learning support
According to an NHS report, one in eight children and young people in the UK has a diagnosable mental health problem – that is roughly three school pupils in every class. It can range from depression and anxiety to self-harm and eating disorders.
t this time of heightened although its programme was paused recognition of the incredible efforts fears around coronavirus because of COVID-19, more will follow as required to adapt their schools to the and the increased chances soon as it is possible to resume training. ever-changing coronavirus situation. of having felt isolated Our schools will also be making use duringA the lockdown, there is an added of new online resources designed for ‘HELP IS ALWAYS AT HAND’ need to check on young people’s schools and colleges by health and Councillor Yvonne Johnson, deputy mental wellbeing. education experts and produced in leader of the council and cabinet As students return to school in partnership with charities. The videos, member for schools and children’s September, a range of measures are in webinars and teaching materials are services, said: “Coronavirus has place to help. intended to start conversations about touched all of our lives – some more mental health and also reassure those so than others. And, no matter our ‘FIRST AID’ AND OTHER SUPPORT worried about the impact of the virus circumstances, the unprecedented Ealing is one of the areas to have on their lives. challenges it has posed mean we benefited from a government-funded Meanwhile, a national See, Hear, are all more likely to feel anxious or programme aiming to put mental health Respond programme developed with sad. Schools are a safe haven where ‘first aiders’ in each of our schools. It Barnardo’s will work to identify vulnerable wellbeing and emotional support must has been training teachers to recognise children who might not currently be be available to anyone who needs it, and respond to early warning signs. This receiving help, and provide support. now more than ever. Our pupils must way, they are more able to quickly spot And the stress teachers are under know help is always at hand.” the signs of a child in distress and know has not been forgotten, either. A For more on young people’s how to support them. A number of local number of Ealing staff have signed up mental wellbeing, visit teachers have already been trained by for an Education Support pilot scheme youngminds.org.uk or, for local help, Mental Health First Aid England and, offering support from their peers, in visit www.youngealing.co.uk/health
around ealing Autumn 2020 13 Brentford school for girls brentford th form Whole School Virtual Open Day Beyond your 26th September personal best at 10am Situated a short distance from the River Brent and River Thames is Brentford School for Girls, a thriving, successful and vibrant all girls’ secondary school where students are truly at the centre of their vision. School in Action Morning
The Department for Education rank the school in the for entry into Nursery to Year 2 ‘Top 100 non-selective state schools’ in England for the Tuesday 6th October 2020 progress students make. The school holds the revered, ‘High Aspiration Pupil Premium Award’ and joined the at 9.15am prestigious ‘London Schools Gold Club’ in 2015, an accolade presented to the most successful London state schools.They have also achieved the Careers Quality Standard, a standard that only 10% of schools nationally achieve. Every girl at Brentford School for Girls is encouraged to go beyond her personal best, be School in Action Morning ambitious and consider their future from an early age. In single sex schools, girls are able to escape gender stereotyping and enjoy a range of opportunities. Traditionally male dominat- for entry into Years 3-6 ed subjects such as sports, geography, maths, science and technology are extremely popular among students and the vibrancy and excellence of the arts encourages creative thinking and Wednesday 14th October 2020 self-expression to develop well-educated, well-rounded individuals. at 9.15am Brentford School for Girls develops the girl into a young woman who is ready to embrace the challenges of life and work in the future, whatever they may be! Please visit our website www.sapriory.com to register OPEN EVENING Private Tours are available upon request 8th October 2020
St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Road, DISCOVER MORE and visit Ealing, London W5 2JL Email: [email protected] WWW.BRENTFORD.HOUNSLOW.SCH.UK Tel: 0208 997 2022 www.sapriory.com Register online for the open school events or access Leading Ealing Catholic Independent Day School for girls aged 3 - 18 and boys in the Nursery, set in 13 acres of stunning grounds our ‘DISCOVER MORE’ digital welcome packs.
Girls’ Schools @brentfordschoolgirls @brentfordschool Association Featured in the Good Schools Guide
Around Ealing 5.8.20 RES ADJUST FINAL PACKAGE.indd 1 06/08/2020 11:45 Whole School Virtual Open Day 26th September at 10am
School in Action Morning for entry into Nursery to Year 2 Tuesday 6th October 2020 at 9.15am
School in Action Morning for entry into Years 3-6 Wednesday 14th October 2020 at 9.15am
Please visit our website www.sapriory.com to register Private Tours are available upon request
St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Road, Ealing, London W5 2JL Email: [email protected] Tel: 0208 997 2022 www.sapriory.com Leading Ealing Catholic Independent Day School for girls aged 3 - 18 and boys in the Nursery, set in 13 acres of stunning grounds
Girls’ Schools Association
Featured in the Good Schools Guide ADMISSIONS
Apply for high school
Applications for children to start high school in our borough are now being received.
f your child was born between 1 statutory deadline is 31 October 2020. the application process as easy as September 2009 and 31 August Councillor Yvonne Johnson, deputy possible for you. 2010, he or she will be due to leader of the council and cabinet “And, if you find you need a bit of leave their primary school next member for schools and children’s support, you can visit the council’s website, Isummer and start year seven at a high services, said: “Choosing a school is contact the schools you are interested in, school in September 2021. important and, therefore, not always a or speak to your child’s current school.” The recommended date for receipt straightforward decision – even at the of applications is 23 October 2020 best of times. But the admissions team SCHOOLS INFORMATION or, by the absolute latest, the final, at the council does all it can to make To find out more about your preferred schools, you can visit the admissions pages on the council’s website at www.ealing.gov.uk/admissions or, alternatively, you can contact the schools themselves. Each school will also be holding an open morning or evening, details of which are on these pages.
HOW TO APPLY You can apply online at www.eadmissions.org.uk between 1 September and 31 October 2020. If you are unable to apply online, you can ask your current school for an application form to fill in and ask it for
16 around ealing Autumn 2020 ADMISSIONS
instructions if anything is not clear. OPEN DAY PROGRAMME FOR PARENTS AND PUPILS 2020 If you choose to apply online OPEN EVENINGS you must not complete a paper application as well. If you do not Date High school Headteacher’s talk live in the London borough of Tuesday 15 September Ark Soane Academy 5.30-6.30pm Ealing you must contact your own home authority. Wednesday 16 Elthorne Park High School 5.15-8.30pm The Cardinal Wiseman (Catholic) September and Twyford (Church of England) Wednesday 16 Northolt High School 5.30-7.30pm high schools require a supplementary September information form to be completed to Thursday 17 September The Cardinal Wiseman 5.30-8.30pm assess denominational commitment Catholic School and these may be obtained either from the schools themselves, Thursday 17 September The Ellen Wilkinson School 6-8.30pm for Girls or from the council website at www.ealing.gov.uk/admissions Thursday 17 September Villiers High School 4.30-7.30pm
Tuesday 22 September Alec Reed Academy 5.30-7.30pm NEW SCHOOLS All new schools proposed to open Wednesday 23 Brentside High School 5.30-8.30pm in 2021/22 will be outside the September co-ordinated application process. Wednesday 23 Featherstone High School 5-7.30pm Parents wishing to apply to those September schools will need to contact the Thursday 24 September Dormers Wells High School 5-8.30pm school direct and apply on the school’s application form. Parents Thursday 24 September Drayton Manor High School 5-8pm are strongly advised to also apply Thursday 24 September Twyford CofE High School 5.30-8.30pm for established secondary schools through the co-ordinated system Wednesday 30 Ada Lovelace CofE High School 5-8pm because there is no guarantee at this September point that the new schools will open Thursday 1 October Ark Acton Academy 5.30-8pm in 2021 because of the coronavirus. Thursday 1 October William Perkin CofE High School 5-8pm
Tuesday 6 October Ark Soane Academy 5.30-6.30pm
Thursday 8 October Ealing Fields High School 5-8pm
Thursday 8 October Greenford High School 5-8pm
Thursday 15 October Ark Soane Academy 5.30-6.30pm
Thursday 22 October Ark Soane Academy 5.30-6.30pm
OPEN MORNINGS
Tuesday 15 September Ark Soane Academy 9.30-10.30am
Tuesday 6 October Ark Soane Academy 9.30-10.30am ANY QUESTIONS? Saturday 10 October Ark Soane Academy 9.30-10.30am Visit www.ealing.gov.uk/ admissions or you can get in Thursday 15 October Ark Soane Academy 9.30-10.30am touch with your preferred school. Thursday 22 October Ark Soane Academy 9.30-10.30am
around ealing Autumn 2020 17 Early drop off Late pick up Contact 078282 86269
• Ofsted registered • Outdoor Learning • Quality Teaching and Learning • 3 months – 5 years • 30 hours of funding available
Located opposite Ealing Council, Perceval House 49-51 Uxbridge RD, Shaftesbury House, Ealing, W5 5SA Car park available for pick up and drop off
www.thelittlehoneybeesdaynursery.co.uk
Little Honey Bees Ad Jul-Aug 20_v3.indd 2 07/07/2020 13:27 “CAPTIVATES AND INSPIRES PUPILS” (OFSTED 2020)
Brentside High School is a vibrant learning community, which puts students at the heart of everything we do, recognising and developing the unique talents of every child.
We prioritise student safety and wellbeing, supported by a strong pastoral system, working in partnership with parents, carers and families.
Ofsted notes that our students are proud and loyal, thrive on taking responsibilities and are respectful of each other in our “diverse and harmonious learning community”. “A SUPPORTIVE AND DYNAMIC LEARNING COMMUNITY” Year on year, Brentside students achieve significantly above students nationally. Your child will benefit greatly from “teachers’ Open Evening strong and confident subject knowledge [which] captivates and inspires students.” Wednesday, 23 September 2020 NB: the format of the Open Evening is subject to change due to the Coronavirus For more information about arrangements pandemic. Please visit our website in September for more details. for Open Evening please visit our website where you can also find our prospectus. Greenford Avenue, London, W7 1JJ 0208 575 9162 We look forward to welcoming you to www.brentsidehigh.ealing.sch.uk Brentside in the future. [email protected] JOBS Olivia Rooney has moved from an apprenticeship to a job at Alec Reed Academy Gateway to work
Despite the coronavirus, local people are managing to upskill and find new work with the help of Ealing Council’s Work West employment programmes.
ork West has been there to help residents “You are learning on these past few months, whether they have been the job rather than just furloughed,W made redundant or simply through theory. And it seen the lockdown prevent them from taking up jobs, leaving them in limbo. has put me in a good Others, like Olivia Rooney, have been position to start a career.” helped to start a new career. Olivia, 19, is starting a new job as a teaching assistant in September, after completing an apprenticeship at Ealing “You are learning on the job rather fast-tracked when the time is right, by Council in August. than just through theory. And it has put emailing [email protected] She went straight from doing her me in a good position to start a career.” or calling 020 8825 6234. A-levels at school to taking up the Olivia will be working at the primary one-year apprenticeship at the council school at Alec Reed Academy in ‘AS A RESULT OF COVID-19, I in 2019 and said it has served as the Northolt. You can read her full story, COULD NOT START WORK’ perfect bridge to a full-time career, and more about apprenticeships, at Marta Momot registered with Work despite the six months of complications ealingnewsextra.co.uk/features/ West for support in February, with and interruptions caused by COVID-19: new‑career the aim of working in education or “I would definitely recommend You can find out more about the childcare. She said: “I was offered an apprenticeship. The all-round council’s apprenticeship network fantastic one-to-one support.” experience is something you wouldn’t at ealingworkwest.com – and can After being connected with a necessarily get by going to university. register your interest so you can be childcare recruitment agency, the Work
20 around ealing Autumn 2020 JOBS
her CV and find suitable free training courses, including a customer service course at a local college, offered through the council’s adult learning service. The advisor has agreed to provide Nahed with further support once she has passed her qualification. Nahed said: “I am really pleased to be able to upskill during this time. I am very pleased with the service I have received from the council and I will try my best with all this help to promote myself for a decent new job after my course.”
Here for you Visit ealingworkwest.com to be connected to jobs, skills and opportunities in Ealing – from adult learning to apprenticeships; and from career advice to job vacancies. You can also contact the team by email at [email protected] or by calling 020 8825 8486. Councillor Jasbir Anand, the council’s cabinet member for business and community services, said: “These have been worrying times for many people, with concerns over their job security, or struggling to get in to work. Work West is here for you and West team helped Marta prepare Marta has consequently been can offer advice and support you for an interview to work at nurseries, working towards completing a range to take the next step – whether which proved successful. And, through of courses, from child protection to that is to help you gain new this role, she would be able to attain first aid’, to leave her in an even better qualifications, improve your skills a Level 2 Diploma in Childcare to position to further her career as soon or find a new job.” become qualified while gaining paid as possible. experience. But then the pandemic, and lockdown, struck. HELP AFTER BEING FURLOUGHED She said: “As a result of COVID-19, Nahed Aziz was a part-time sales I could not start work. Thanks to all of assistant when the pandemic hit; and the support from Work West and Quint was furloughed from her job. She Education I am now studying until contacted Work West. things go back to normal.” Its advisors helped her to update
around ealing Autumn 2020 21 NEW refuse and BOOK IN recycling centre ADVANCE booking system www.ealing.gov.uk/recyclingcentre
From the 17th of August 2020, all residents visiting Ealing refuse and recycling centre must book in advance to enter & use the facility.
For all residents visiting Ealing refuse and recycling centres, please remember the following:
• Visitors arriving without a booking • Check our site rules and FAQ’s will be turned away before your visit or ask our friendly staff for help
• Pre-sort waste at home to make full • Check social media for up to date use of limited time on site. information on when new dates will be released
Scan the QR code to find out more!
Follow us on Twitter: @EalingCouncil
Ealing-Prebooking-190x245mm--Aug20-V1-KN.indd 1 11/08/2020 16:17 Outstanding Care in Ealing & Richmond Your life, your choice, your care.
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r . Primary School A OPEN DAY – visit our EYFS For Reception 2021 applications Wednesday 28th October 2020 4.00pm- 5.00pm Wednesday 25th November 2020 9.00am-10.00am Subject to change due to COVID -19 Check website or call school for details.
For further information please contact: OFSTED JANUARY 2020 West Acton Primary School, West Acton continues to be Noel Road, Acton, W3 0JL. a GOOD school. Tel: 0208 992 3144 Pupils said that their teachers are caring. Parents and Email: [email protected] carers like the inclusivity and www.westactonprimaryschool.org diversity at the school. OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Showing Acton Spirit
The coronavirus crisis Sarah Brown of Pai has proved to be a huge challenge for local businesses. But some, as we reported in our hand sanitiser last edition, have found called Acton Spirit and innovative ways to survive donated thousands of units to NHS HELPING KEY WORKERS ON TO and care home workers. TWO WHEELS – and even thrive. A family With a 25% increase in sales Getting around is another way in firm in Acton encapsulates compared to the same time last year, which our lives have changed recently. the company is hiring more staff to Some commuters have been deterred this, reports Robin Das. help them develop a bigger range of from using public transport by the products and is helping schools across need for social distancing, and other west London by donating supplies of residents have decided to switch from ai Skincare was launched in hand sanitiser. 2007 by Sarah Brown and At the same time, the company also her husband Ed Saper and created Soap Sud Island handwash, a nod produces an organic range to Acton’s wash house history, and Free ofP skincare products. But, during Bird, a moisturiser to repair hand skin lockdown, it quickly developed a after using sanitiser, which was developed with NHS and care workers in mind. Many of Pai’s 60 staff have been working from home and the company is also bringing in ‘cobots’ to help deal with demand – robotic arms that can perform repetitive tasks like screwing on lids. Ed said: “They will help us with social distancing on our production lines. And they are not replacing staff but are an extra help.” Ed Saper Bike assembly at Brompton
24 around ealing Autumn 2020 OPEN FOR BUSINESS
cars to cycling around the borough – encouraged by measures to help ‘active travel’. When the lockdown was declared in March, bike stores were one of the few non-food businesses allowed to stay open. Since then, sales of bikes have boomed by as much as 40% and well-known manufacturer Brompton Bikes, based in Greenford, has seen sales increase. Brompton, which also hires out Ankit Monga at his bikes at docks around the borough, Southall store (inset – hand sanitiser) decided to help NHS key workers once lockdown kicked in. Its Wheels for Heroes campaign helped it to produce bikes below cost price to lease to key workers free of charge. Julian Scriven, Brompton’s managing hire division director, said: “Our aim was simple – to get 1,000 free Brompton hire bikes out to NHS staff, so they could get to work and out and about safely and swiftly. It has been fantastic to be able to help in a small way.”
SHOPPING SAFELY Life has changed for our local high streets in many ways – not least because of the social distancing and hygiene measures to help MORE INFO customers shop n Read the full story on Pai more confidently the store was able to at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ and safely, including reopen in mid-June features/beauty all of us doing our bit by – closely following the wearing face coverings. government guidance on n Read the full story on Ankit Monga has been how to do so safely – and Ankit is Brompton at ealingnewsextra. selling intricately designed Indian hoping things will pick up again quickly. co.uk/features/brompton wedding clothing from his family-run He said: “We always remind people n Read the full story on Mongas store Mongas in Southall Broadway when visiting us to just come as one or at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ since 2005. two; we all wear masks and gloves; we features/safe-shopping Of course, the store was forced have our social distancing stickers on n Read more on coronavirus to close its doors for months during the floor and hand sanitisers. support and advice at lockdown, and a lot of weddings were “I am hopeful that business in Southall www.ealing.gov.uk/coronavirus cancelled as well. Fortunately, however, Broadway will bounce back.”
around ealing Autumn 2020 25 ACTIVE TRAVEL
Have your say email COVIDtransport Road to @ealing.gov.uk green recovery
Councillor Mik Sabiers using temporary cycle lane installed in Acton
The first low traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) are being introduced across the borough on an initial six-month basis and residents are encouraged to have their say on them in ‘real time’, reports Dan Stephens. They are among a range of trial schemes responding to COVID-19 and the climate emergency.
ade up of a cluster of cutting traffic should be reduced “Less traffic means less air pollution residential streets, and air pollution, a fall in the number of from vehicles, reduced CO2 emissions closed at certain points to vehicle collisions and the chance for and improved air quality, and this is some vehicles, LTNs are more community activity in the areas. vital for our ongoing commitment to Mdesigned to reduce traffic – primarily by LTNs are among up to 200 active tackle the climate emergency – and the discouraging buses, lorries and non-local travel projects being planned or choking levels of air pollution seen in cars from passing through at speed or undertaken by the council, including London before COVID-19.” treating the area as a rat-run. the widening of footways and the There will be 10 local LTNs set up The LTNs will be made using installation of temporary barriers and by Ealing Council between July and temporary measures, like plastic cycle lanes in busier spots to enable September, using Transport for London bollards, and residents will be able to more people to walk, cycle and (TfL) funding of almost £1million. Each have their say for six months before maintain social distancing. location will be treated individually, with anything permanent is considered. The the measures depending on the needs council has been sending letters to ‘A COLLABORATION WITH of the area. those living in the LTNs. LOCAL PEOPLE’ Options include installing temporary There is a reduced capacity on public Council leader Julian Bell said: “Our bollards, double yellow lines and transport at the moment, because of LTNS are very much designed to be a introducing 20mph speed limits, where COVID-19, and a fear of close contact in collaboration with local people. Ealing appropriate. enclosed spaces. is one of a number of boroughs in Some will have trees and flowers The aim of LTNs is to encourage London that is introducing them, along planted and new seating, as well as a switch to walking and cycling to with other measures, to help support cycle parking to make it easier for replace these journeys – rather than active travel and a green recovery residents to store their bikes. cars. And, among the benefits of from COVID-19. Emergency services, rubbish
26 around ealing Autumn 2020 ACTIVE TRAVEL
LTNs (July-September 2020)
n Acton Central: Messaline Avenue, Cumberland Road, n Mattock Lane W5 Maldon Road, Cumberland Park and Goldsmith Avenue W3 n Adrienne Avenue, Southall UB1 n Bowes Road W3 n Loveday Road W13 n East Acton: Golf Links area W3 n West Ealing North: Endsleigh Road, Felix Road, n Junction Road area W5: Junction Road, Darwin Road, Green Man Lane, Kirchen Road and Lancing Road W13 Carlyle Road, Murray Road, Ealing Park Gardens and n West Ealing South: Around Haslemere Avenue W13. Lawrence Road More information on these LTNs, including maps, n Olive Road W5 can be found at www.ealing.gov.uk/ltn
collection vehicles, pedestrians and significantly beneficial for physical and cyclists will remain unaffected and mental wellbeing. Facts about LTNs continue to have access through the “The idea is for local people to see n Councils had to introduce road closures. the changes implemented first-hand LTNs in this timescale to qualify Residents will be able to reach their and to have their say in real time for funding homes by car, but this may potentially during the six-month consultation n Each LTN is different be via alternative directions. period. After this period, we can use and created with its local the experiences of local people and neighbourhood in mind ‘HELP SHAPE LASTING any concerns residents may have, to n IMPROVEMENTS’ help shape lasting improvements to Residents can still drive on to Councillor Mik Sabiers, cabinet member these areas.” their street and take deliveries for environment and highways, said: If you would like to submit feedback from vehicles, although the “We hope the introduction of LTNs about a scheme near you, you can access route may change, based across the borough could transform our email [email protected] on the needs of the locality local neighbourhoods by making them For the full story, visit n LTNS are designed to improve quieter and more pleasant for walking ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ accessibility for wheelchairs, and cycling, which are proven to be features/LTN mobility scooters as well as bikes n One London borough recorded a 90% reduction in household exposure to nitrogen dioxide in certain areas, following the establishment of LTNs n In many cases, LTNs have led to a significant reduction in traffic within the zone and no significant change on surrounding streets.
around ealing Autumn 2020 27 CLIMATE ACTION
Save energy, save money
“Our bill for electric has gone down quite a lot,” said Debra David of Ealing who had solar panels installed on the roof of her house in January. “Even on an overcast day, they generate electricity.”
lthough her energy bills are dual fuel, she has seen her monthly costs dropA by more than a third since the panels were fitted, through the Solar Together scheme backed by Ealing Council. WHAT CAN YOU DO? Heating and powering our Like Debra, you could use homes are among the main causes Solar Together to get solar panels of harmful carbon emissions in the installed at a good price. It saves energy UK. But it does not need to be so bad. and money, and cuts emissions. She A lot of energy is wasted through poor found it cost her only a quarter of what insulation and inefficient lighting; and As we reported in the last edition it would have cost her 10 years ago. we could power our homes with far of Around Ealing, Ealing Council has Read more about how you can register more renewable energy. This is not just adopted a draft climate emergency for the next round of Solar Together, about saving the planet – it also saves strategy that will be finalised this and Debra’s experience of having solar us all money. And it is not hard to do. autumn. Becoming carbon neutral by panels, at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ Debra added: “From the point of 2030 is the overarching challenge the features/fantastic-solar efficiency, solar power is fantastic. It council has set itself as it looks to take In addition, the government has got to the point that when we are urgent climate action and support announced that, from September, out walking my husband sometimes residents to lead greener lives. it will encourage homeowners and looks at other houses and wonders One of the key areas to deal with is how landlords to apply for ‘vouchers’ to why they haven’t got panels.” we use energy, and where we get it from. help them pay for measures to make
28 around ealing Autumn 2020 CLIMATE ACTION
Debra said: “The smart meter has a pylon feature that comes on when electricity is being produced, minus what is being used. A red light comes on when we are using more than what the panels are producing. On a lovely sunny day an average of 10kw of electricity can be produced. Basically, the more panels you have the more electricity you can produce.”
will have the added benefit of creating more ‘green’ work and jobs locally. Councillor Mik Sabiers, the council’s cabinet member for environment and highways, explained: “Another approach we will be testing is a ‘whole house’ approach to retro-fitting, tackling everything that needs to be done, at once. The council is currently working with five other housing providers to demonstrate how this can be done quickly and cost efficiently. By improving homes, our residents will enjoy cost savings, healthier home environments their homes more energy efficient, like latest chance to get involved will take and a reduction in carbon emissions.” low-carbon heating and insulation. place in early October. See the advert on The council will not just stop at These Green Homes vouchers will page 32 of this magazine for more details. housing. All its other buildings will cover at least two thirds of the cost, up also be improved to a good level of to £5,000 per household. Low-income ENERGY: WHAT ELSE WILL THE energy efficiency and, in a further households might qualify for the full COUNCIL BE DOING? step, will be assessed for opportunities cost of the work, up to £10,000. To find As part of the council’s commitment to generate solar power. out more, keep an eye on the council’s to create 2,500 genuinely affordable The council’s Healthy Homes Ealing website, where all the new information will homes, all new council homes will service helps to show residents what be made available: www.ealing.gov.uk/ have to be designed to zero-carbon they can do in their own homes to save info/201098/energy_efficiency standards. In fact, all housing will need money while also staying warm, well Switching to a renewable energy to be designed this way by 2020; and, and independent. Vulnerable residents provider can help, too. The Big London by 2022, all housing will have to be could qualify for tailored advice Energy Switch is a collective-buying built to those standards. and support from a ‘green doctor’. scheme backed by Ealing Council which In addition to this, existing council Call 0800 083 2265 (free) or visit uses the strength of numbers to secure homes in Ealing will be retro-fitted to www.ealing.gov.uk/healthyhomesealing the best energy deals for residents. The improve their energy performance. This to find out more.
around ealing Autumn 2020 29 ROUGH SLEEPERS
Offering refuge
Rough sleepers who currently have no access to public funds should be awarded ‘refugee’ status to help them get their lives back on track and access the help they need, reports Quinton Drawbridge.
his is what a group of local claim benefits, legally work, or legally would have five years of limited leave organisations, led by Ealing rent a home. Many of them have no to remain in the UK. They would have Council and the charity Hope legal documentation at all, leaving permission to work and study, and for Southall Street Homeless, them effectively stateless. During the access to the NHS and benefits. Thas asked of the government. pandemic, Ealing has been supporting In the first 12 weeks of the more people with NRPF than any other ‘MARGINALISED AND COVID-19 lockdown, the council local authority in the country. DISADVANTAGED’ placed more than 450 rough sleepers Councillor Peter Mason, the council’s in local emergency accommodation A FUNDING CLIFF EDGE cabinet member for housing, planning under the government’s ‘Everyone The ‘Everyone In’ funding runs out in and transformation, said: “Having no In’ policy, to provide them with a safe March 2021. After that, rough sleepers recourse to public funds means that place to live during the pandemic. with NRPF will go off a cliff edge in these desperately vulnerable people Of the 328 in emergency terms of their ability to access support, are stuck with no options. Now that we accommodation at the end of June, because councils will not be legally have contact with this group, many of almost half were not eligible to claim allowed to help them. whom were not known to us before, it benefits. And a quarter were non- Without a change to the law, this would be inhumane to turn our backs European Economic Area nationals vulnerable group will be forced back on them and push them back out on to who had no recourse to public on to the streets with no means to the streets, where they would slip into funds (NRPF). That means that, for look after themselves. However, giving complete destitution. immigration status reasons, they cannot them refugee status would mean they “If we want to consider ourselves a
30 around ealing Autumn 2020 HOUSING
No half measures
aling Council is now over half-way towards hitting its target of creating at least 2,500 new genuinely affordable homes in the borough by April 2022. The council is directly building more homes for let Ethan any other London borough. Its building programme means it will directly develop more new homes for social rent in the four-year period to April 2022 than it did in the rest of this century combined. All of these new homes will be let by either the council or housing associations, at rents well within the means of local people on low incomes. That includes 115 of the new homes planned as part of the redevelopment of the council’s offices at Perceval House in Ealing. The COVID-19 pandemic means there will be some changes to how the council works to meet this target. This includes allowing longer periods for residents to engage with planning processes, which will be largely carried out online.
civilised society, there simply must be a properly functioning safety net for these marginalised and disadvantaged people, who have nowhere else to turn.”
FURTHER SUPPORT As well as this legal change, the council and its partners have called on the government to provide funding for skills training to help rough sleepers to find work and, thereby, become financially independent. For those who are struggling most, the partners have also asked for government funds to pay for ongoing outreach, substance misuse support, and housing for those who need it most. Read the full story at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/latest- news/government-urged-to-grant- New homes built by the council at West End Gardens in Northolt refugee-status/
around ealing Autumn 2020 31 Increasing energy costs unbearable?
A hassle-free way to switch supplier and make sure you are getting the best deal on your energy bills.
The more households that participate, the greater our negotiating power.
Last round, Ealing residents saved an average of £232!
#ChangeTogether Register today at biglondonenergyswitch.co.uk/ealing
BLES_Halfpage_Ealing.indd 1 04/08/2020 11:18 Wanted: Independent trustee of Victoria Hall Trust
Are you looking for an interesting new volunteering challenge that will help your local community and secure the future of a landmark local facility?
We are looking for an independent trustee to join Ealing councillors on the Trust committee and help take decisions in the best interests of local users of the Victoria Hall and related rooms (which form part of Ealing Town Hall). The Trust meets in the evening several times a year. It is anticipated the successful candidate will also sit on the Community Use Steering Group.
If you are an independent local person with an interest in the historic environment and able to demonstrate the ability to achieve good governance and work with others in the best interest of your local community, then please apply. You can apply for the role at www.dosomethinggood.org.uk/ We are particularly keen the Trust reflects the diverse volunteering until 30 September 2020. The appointment nature of the community it serves. will be for a term of four years and unpaid. LEISURE CENTRES
Councillor Mahfouz at Northolt Leisure Centre
Ready to go
Several leisure centres in the borough have welcomed people through their doors again following further relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions over the summer, reports Dan Stephens.
isitors will have noticed a Swimming programmes have been their part by washing their hands, sticking few changes to the way they limited to lane swimming, lessons and to social distancing and following the are run to help everyone swim club sessions in the early stages, to new rules in our leisure centres.” stay safe and help stop the ensure social distancing. Visitors will also Additional classes and activities Vspread of the virus. need to attend sessions in their swimming could be added at these leisure Northolt and Dormers Wells leisure costumes to avoid using the changing centres, subject to guidance. And centres, and Southall Sports Centre, all rooms prior to the session starting. other leisure sites could be reopened reopened – with every effort made to It is essential that anyone intending in January, depending on the national ensure the highest standards of hygiene to book a visit a leisure centre goes to coronavirus situation. and safety for visitors and staff. www.everyoneactive.com beforehand to If you are planning a visit, you now familiarise themselves with the new rules. need to pre-book and pre-pay either Gurnell Leisure online, through an app or by phone. The ‘EVERYONE CAN PLAY THEIR PART’ Centre has not reopened new measures are designed to allow safe Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, cabinet because it might be on the brink social distancing, avoid overcrowding member for finance and leisure said: of redevelopment, subject to and also put time limits on sessions to “I’m delighted that these leisure permission. Work could potentially allow for changeovers and cleaning of centres have reopened. It is vital begin next year to provide new facilities between sessions. local people have the opportunity to leisure facilities, including a One-way systems, including separate exercise and stay active. 10-lane 50-metre pool, leisure entrance and exit routes, have been “Things do look and feel a bit pool, gym, soft play area, sauna, introduced – with arrows on floors and different. Ealing’s facilities will comply steam room and a café; as well walls. In the gyms, stations have been with the highest government, public as almost 600 new homes. Read moved two metres apart and will be health guidelines to ensure the safety of more at ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ regularly disinfected. customers and staff. Everyone can play latest‑news
around ealing Autumn 2020 33 EALING FOSTERING AND ADOPTION CONNECTIONS
,, I
actually UNPACKED,, my bag Novia, aged 13
We know that this is a diffi cult time for people and we’re changing the way we work to keep everyone safe. During these challenging times we still need more people to become foster carers. Do you remember what it was like to be a teenager? Now imagine your family was having diffi culties and all you wanted was somewhere safe and stable to stay. Fostering a teenager can be challenging, but it’s a hard time for them too. We need you to understand the needs of our young people and be there for them through the highs and lows, to support them on their journey. As a foster carer we will provide you with excellent support and training, including our new virtual sessions. We also pay teenage fostering allowances of between £334 to £464 per week for each young person you look after, depending on their age and your experience. Together we can do this at ealingfosteradopt.co.uk Freephone: 0800 731 6550 Email: [email protected] Facebook: /ealingfosteradopt
Change the future
EC9317 F&A AE Full Pg Advert Teenage Fostering_v1.indd 1 24/07/2020 10:31 FOSTERING
Royal rewards
“I must be doing something right,” laughed a local foster carer who has been awarded an MBE for her services to fostering. However, she did not believe it was true to begin with.
hakuntla Gittins was Ealing all parents in the borough will be able approaches her fostering. Council’s Foster Carer of the to relate to. She said: “My mum was a foster Year in 2018 and has now carer for Ealing for 22 years and I still fostered for 12 years. When she ‘FOSTERING IS SO REWARDING’ take some advice from her. Sreceived a call from an unusual place, Shakuntla said: “I’ve always loved “Because of her I always wanted to she did not take it seriously at first. children and fostering is so rewarding. be a foster carer. I think with the MBE “I was driving to school one day and And I recommend it to anyone – but I’ve made my mum proud.” the phone rang,” she remembered. you have to put a lot into it. You need Read more about Shakuntla’s “They said they were calling on behalf to make the children feel settled, fostering experiences at of Her Majesty and I put the phone wanted and cared for. So, you have to ealingnewsextra.co.uk/features/ down because I didn’t believe it. But do it wholeheartedly. It’s a family – you big-family I then got a letter and my family were can’t treat them any differently. jumping for joy.” “It becomes easier as you go along. MORE INFO Unfortunately, because of the And you speak to other carers. In coronavirus restrictions, Shakuntla has fact, I have become very good friends Could you follow in not yet been able to collect her well- with other carers and we meet each Shakuntla’s footsteps? deserved MBE. But it could happen other and chat on the phone all the To find out more next year. time. That way, you draw on your own about fostering, call She has looked after children of all parenting experience but also others’. freephone 0800 731 6550, email ages – from five-month-old babies to “And Ealing’s foster care team is [email protected] or 15-year-olds; and has had up to four really, really good and everyone there visit www.ealingfosteradopt.co.uk girls at the same time before. She is so helpful.” – where you can also take part in currently has two children with her Shakuntla has two children of her virtual information sessions each – a 14-year-old girl and an 11-year- own, who are now grown up; but who month with advisers at www. old boy. Home schooling during the still take a keen interest. And family ealingfosteradopt.co.uk/events lockdown presented an extra challenge plays a huge part in the way she
around ealing Autumn 2020 35 CONTACT YOUR COUNCILLORS Details of all councillor surgeries are available at www.ealing.gov.uk/councillors
Key: n Acton n Ealing n Greenford n Hanwell n Northolt n Perivale n Southall
Bassam Mahfouz Dee Martin Lauren Wall Labour 0794 910 4656 Labour Labour [email protected] 0778 887 2191 0752 545 2812
WEST END Cabinet: Finance/leisure NORTHOLT NORTHOLT [email protected] [email protected]
Deirdre Costigan Miriam Rice Chris Summers Labour Labour Labour 0793 032 2315 0741 559 2153 0775 837 4826
NORTHOLT NORTHOLT [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MANDEVILLE
Shahbaz Ahmed Amarjit Jammu Shital Manro Labour Labour Labour 0795 837 6745 0754 080 1772 07960 754 646 [email protected] NORTH NORTH [email protected] [email protected] Chair, planning committee GREENFORD
Anthony Kelly Aysha Raza Simon Woodroofe Labour 0777 174 0912 Labour Labour [email protected] 0772 031 2035 020 8567 5907 / 0795 129 2484 GREEN Chair, licensing committee [email protected] [email protected] GREENFORD
Julian Bell Harbhajan Kaur Dheer Tim Murtagh Labour 0790 342 4905 Labour Labour 0796 346 2846 [email protected] 0782 515 7044 [email protected] Leader of Ealing Council [email protected] Chair, audit committee BROADWAY GREENFORD
Sitarah Anjum Linda Burke Carlo Lusuardi Labour Labour Labour
0794 924 0288 0740 146 8929 07713 732 786 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CLEVELAND
Seema Kumar Anthony Young Conservative Conservative 0793 925 4263 020 8567 2724 EALING [email protected] [email protected] BROADWAY
Paul Conlan Binda Rai Gareth Shaw Labour Labour 0752 238 8741 Labour
0780 893 0917 [email protected] 0778 991 4379
WALPOLE [email protected] Cabinet: Health/adults’ services [email protected]
Fay Block Paul Driscoll David Millican Labour Labour Conservative
0781 590 4015 0784 932 8223 020 8810 1989 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] NORTHFIELD
Gregory Stafford Nigel Sumner Conservative 0797 311 9625 Conservative
[email protected] 020 8992 2648 Leader of the opposition [email protected] HANGER HILL
Praveen Anand Jon Ball Joanna Dabrowska Labour Liberal Democrat Conservative 0795 803 3012 020 8810 1078 0798 899 2264 EALING
COMMON [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Councillors Sep20_v1.indd 2 11/08/2020 19:34 Send letters to: Ealing Council, Town Hall, New Broadway, Ealing W5 2BY. CONTACT YOUR COUNCILLORS
Munir Ahmed Tariq Mahmood Charan Sharma Labour 0758 242 8643 Labour Labour
[email protected] 0795 731 3079 0775 764 5967
PERIVALE Deputy mayor of Ealing [email protected] [email protected]
Karam Mohan Swaran Padda Kamaldeep Sahota Labour Labour Labour
LADY LADY 0794 752 2084 0795 080 6210 0741 280 8803 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MARGARET
Jaskiran Chohan Karanvir Dhadwal Kamaljit Nagpal Labour Labour Labour 0744 848 5200 0758 852 8327 0791 463 3666 [email protected]
SOUTHALL [email protected] [email protected] Chair, general purposes BROADWAY
Jasbir Anand Kamaljit Dhindsa Peter Mason Labour 0794 920 2851 Labour Labour 0781 402 6781 [email protected] [email protected] 0796 150 5808 GREEN Cabinet: Housing/planning/
SOUTHALL Cabinet: Business/community services [email protected] transformation
Mohinder Kaur Midha Tejinder Dhami Ranjit Dheer Labour Labour 0795 180 7505 Labour 0795 084 2599 [email protected] 0789 422 8032 WELLS
DORMERS [email protected] [email protected]
Mohammad Aslam Gurmit Mann Rajinder Mann Labour Labour Labour 0773 744 3760 0780 194 6333 0780 194 6333 GREEN
NORWOOD NORWOOD [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Lewis Cox Ray Wall Labour Labour
0756 819 7907 0751 562 1464
HOBBAYNE [email protected] [email protected]
Theresa Byrne Joanna Camadoo-Rothwell Yoel Gordon Labour Labour 0796 077 7921 Labour 0796 078 3825
0771 666 2499 [email protected] [email protected]
ELTHORNE [email protected] Cabinet: Community safety/inclusion Chief whip
Dan Crawford Abdullah Gulaid Sarah Rooney Labour 0783 739 9617 Labour 0794 042 3557 Labour [email protected] [email protected] 07824 358 020 ACTON ACTON CENTRAL Chair, health scrutiny Mayor of Ealing [email protected]
Josh Blacker Yvonne Johnson Mik Sabiers Labour 0793 477 3372 Labour 020 8993 4166 Labour 0786 753 8646 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] SOUTH ACTON Deputy leader and Cabinet: Chair, overview/scrutiny committee Cabinet: Environment/highways Schools/children
Gary Busuttil Gary Malcolm Andrew Steed Liberal Democrat Liberal Democrat 0781 320 5218 Liberal Democrat
0798 544 3860 [email protected] 0773 664 9664 [email protected] Leader of the second opposition [email protected] SOUTHFIELD
Kate Crawford Steve Donnelly Hitesh Tailor Labour Labour Labour
020 8992 9353 (evenings) 0771 409 3099 0799 063 7183 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] EAST ACTON
Councillors Sep20_v1.indd 3 11/08/2020 19:35 BEFORE YOU GO
Leaders on litter Ealing Council is partnering with the local community to tackle litter in the borough’s roads, parks and open spaces, reports Dan Stephens.
ith the Great round is that it is taking place closer British September to autumn than spring. Clean (GBSC) fast One group getting involved is approaching, there LAGER Can (Litter Action Group for hasW never been a better time to get Ealing Residents), which runs regular involved to help keep your local area community clear-ups, gives out looking its best. picking kits and bags provided by Because of COVID-19, the annual the council, and works with the council continued hard work. Our ongoing Great British Spring Clean was postponed to arrange collections of litter. It will be partnership is a great example of the back in March and has been rescheduled running various events during GBSC. council and residents working together for 11-27 September. As usual, the annual Over the summer, its members held for the good of the local area. event will help local communities get 20 group events and cleared more “Keeping our borough litter-free is a involved with taking care of their local than 850 bags of rubbish from roads, real challenge. We need everyone to patches – the only difference this time parks and waterways. play their part and the message is clear – if you spend time here you must take ‘ABOUT ENJOYMENT AND home all your litter with you or risk a WELLBEING’ fine. GBSC is an excellent opportunity LAGER Can member Cathy Swift said for people to get involved.” its membership had risen from 270 to 600 this year. She explained: “For me, MORE INFO experiencing our local green spaces and streets should be about enjoyment n For the full article and wellbeing. We need a clean and and to find out about pleasant environment to fulfil this and GBSC events taking we feel it’s much more constructive to place in Ealing, visit do something about the litter rather ealingnewsextra.co.uk/features/ than just get upset or angry about it.” september-clean Councillor Mik Sabiers, the n For more on LAGER Can, visit council’s cabinet member for www.facebook.com/groups/ environment and highways, said: LAGERCan or @canlager on Twitter. “Thanks to LAGER Can for their
38 around ealing Autumn 2020 Prospective Parents’ Event Thursday 17th September, 2020 6.00pm - 8.30pm To book a place or a tour email: [email protected] “This is an outstanding school.” Ofsted 2019
A specialist College for Science and Mathematics Where girls create their future
Passionate
Inspiring
Creative
Nurturing
Successful
“ … a culture where pupils thrive and develop as confident young women.” Ofsted 2019
Queens Drive, London W3 0HW | 0208 752 1525 www.ellenwilkinson.ealing.sch.uk | [email protected]
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