FREE Issue 8 | August 2021  @newhamvoices  /NewhamVoices  @newhamvoices www.newhamvoices.co.uk

History focus on Life seen through Alliance to challenge The Royal Docks Page 4 the lens of disability Page 11 university bias Page 13 A class apart: school’s global vision for the ‘whole child’ FAWN BESS-LEITH ing, professional development and There will be a strong focus on emo- school improvement. tional wellbeing with “daily check- ewham’s glittering reputation They are keen to recruit peo- ins, mindfulness and meditation, for educational achievement, ple from the local community who including hansei; a technique that Nboth in London and nationally, represent the diversity of Newham. comes from Japan”. This is a pro- will be given a boost in September Sarah said: “Having Andrea and I in cess of collective reflection where at with the opening of a pioneering new these senior roles is a very visible the end of the day or week, the class primary school where the focus is on representation of that diversity”. and wider school community reflects ‘the whole child’, helping the first Discussing their plans to help chil- on what went well and how improve- intake of reception year children to dren and families bounce back from ments can be made. According to bounce back from the negative im- the negative impacts of Covid- 19, Andrea: “Staff will be trained to be pact of lockdown. Sarah said: “We are focusing on mindful practitioners”. Plans are in School 360 is an impressive, mul- community. We plan to help them the pipeline for the school to gain ti-million-pound building, located form support networks by having trauma informed status. on Sugar House Island off Stratford social events such as family picnics”. Sarah Seleznyov and Andrea Silvain Sarah added:“There are plans to High Street. It features a roof-top actively promote outdoor learning playground for sports and lessons, and engagement with nature. There spacious well lit classrooms and a will be a small forest area to grow designated space for art, design, plants so children will know where woodwork and science, as well as a food comes from and how it grows”. community room with a kitchen for The school’s chef will educate chil- parents to run events. dren on the importance of food and Pre-pandemic assessments have how to cook. Andrea said: “Students shown that some Newham schools will see food going from plant to plate are above average in performance and everyone will eat as a family”. compared to others in the UK. A few spaces are available for Big Education Trust, the mastermind reception children and it is also pos- behind School 360, aims to build on sible for local charities and social that success. Sarah Seleznyov, one of the enterprises to hire rooms. For fur- school’s co-head teachers, explained: ther details email: info@school360. “It’s an organisation that is interested org.uk or phone: 020 87063 360.Q in a more expansive, value led educa- tion system and is also the operating wheel behind its sister school, School 21. It shows our commitment to work- ing with and for the community in pre- paring children for the 21st Century”. According to Andrea Silvain, the other co-head teacher, “the name gives a good visual representation of the school’s ethos: Head, Heart and Hand – the whole child”. Between them, their experience in education spans more than 30 years. Andrea was a Deputy Head of School 21, also located in Stratford. She said: “Some of my passions are creativity Alison Steadman and wellbeing which is why the ethos It’s all going on in opens West Ham Park really appeals to me.” Sarah has Pages 8-9 experience of working across several Newham this August! exhibition diverse schools in London in teach- SEE PAGE 5 2 Newham Voices August 2021 About us

Your £5 can give Newham By local people, for local people Our aim is to provide a voice for all of Newham’s people. We are committed to helping you share your news, views an independent voice and experiences with each other. We Newham Voices aim to be transparent, accountable Welcome to , the free news service for London’s most diverse and vibrant community. We are and responsive to your needs. a group of volunteers who over the past year have defied lockdown and the pandemic to launch a newspaper and online news portal. We are independent and not-for-profit. We have no political affiliation, but we are We are a non-profit Community Interest Company (number dedicated to the people of Newham. 12790786). Our journalism is We are a grassroots organisation, providing a platform for everyone, but we need your help. Today I am based on core values of accuracy, asking for your support. We need to raise £3000 a month to pay for printing and production costs. Every con- fairness, independence, humanity, tribution, no matter how small, can make a difference. We have no corporate backers and we are grateful to accountability and transparency the businesses who take out advertising, but we believe the support of residents is crucial to our survival. So with a strong commitment to citizen every penny you can give, no matter how small, is important. Become a supporter today – just £5 a month from journalism. More information is individuals, or £15 a month from organisations. Above all, get involved. available on our website: The pandemic is easing in our part of the world, but massive problems remain and to solve them the voice www.newhamvoices.co.uk of grassroots Newham needs to be heard. Contact us at [email protected]. – Aidan White, Publisher

Newham CIC Directors Jean Gray, Catarina Joele, Shagufta Nasreen, Rebekah Samuel, Winston Vaughan and Aidan White Thanks to the local businesses supporting Newham Voices Publisher Aidan White 07946 291511 Editors Catarina Joele and Jean Gray Designer Mary Schrider Editorial Team Mickey Ambrose, Andrew Baker, Sylvie Belbouab, Fawn Bess-Leith, Nicole Blythe, Cecilia Cran, Phoenix Debola, Noah Enahoro, Neandra Etienne, Coco Garcia Acevedo, Charlotte Hall, Michelle Harris, Thomas Holdroyd, Wendy Jackson, Karolina Króliczek, Tanya Mehmet, Phil Mellows, Zhenreenah Muhxinga, Thana Narashiman, Julia Omari, Farzhana Rahman, Rebekah Samuel, Mir Tasin, Lorraine Trapper, Peter Landman and Winston Vaughan Thank you to all of our supporters!

Complaints If you have a complaint regarding the content of our newspaper or website contact the editor at editor@ newhamvoices.co.uk Or by phone: 07946291511 or by post to 11 Vicarage Road, London E15 4HD. We will normally respond to your complaint with a final decision within 21 calendar days. If we uphold your complaint, we will tell you about our actions to remedy the situation. If you are not satisfied you can submit a formal complaint to IMPRESS, who will independently examine your complaint. Newham Voices agrees to be bound by the outcome of IMPRESS investigations. For more information, go to www.newhamvoices.co.uk/feedback Join others in supporting us by listing For general inquires email us at: or advertising your business with [email protected] Newham Voices and by subscribing to receive a digital copy of the newspaper direct to your inbox for just a single fee of £6 for the year. For further information contact Rebekah Samuel on 07306 515 223 or at [email protected] Community Newham Voices August 2021 3 Crucial vote on Carpenters Estate due in October

AIDAN WHITE ballot which is expected to open for 2,500 new homes. 26 days. The plan has incorporated resi- he moment of truth on the fu- Those who can vote are council dents’ feedback and includes a new Photo courtesty Hope4Newham ture of the Carpenters Estate in tenants who have lived in the area for clear route to Stratford Station, pro- TStratford is fast approaching. at least a year, including people in vision of a generous central green After almost two decades of delay temporary accommodation, as well space surrounded by low rise hous- Hope4Newham: and neglect, people on the estate get as resident homeowners. People who ing, rising to taller buildings around their chance to vote on plans for the have moved out over recent years but the station. putting a smile multi-million regeneration of the were given a right to return will also To date, a majority of residents area in October. have a vote. support moves to regenerate the on the faces of The Carpenters Estate is a 28-acre In all, council leaders were told estate but a significant minority site next to Stratford Station and that current data establishes 173 remain opposed. They include some hungry children the Olympic Park, with 710 existing confirmed eligible voters and a homeowners reluctant to move, homes, including three tower blocks, further 335 potential voters on the or who do not find the prospect of NOAH ENAHORO which are largely empty. estate, with a further 235 proper- moving to a new home on the estate The future of the estate has been ties with a right to return status appealing. Council leaders were told ovid has impacted communities debated for almost 20 years and over who will also be eligible to vote – a that feedback from residents indi- nationwide, none more so than the last three years the council has potential total of 743. But the final cates 56 percent support for current in Newham, which has been one developed a £700 million restoration number will only be confirmed in proposals with 14 percent opposition. C of the hardest-hit areas. High pov- and regeneration programme to be the coming weeks. The first phase, due to start next erty levels, inequality, and economic carried out over the next 15 years. The potential voters are residents year, includes the £54 million ren- instability have made things hard for Council leaders in July were told aged over 16 who qualify and meet ovation of James Riley Point, one of Newham’s most vulnerable, but out- that the details of what’s on offer to criteria set down by the Greater three tower blocks which still house standing individuals have stepped up. tenants, people in temporary accom- London Authority (GLA), which a handful of families. Another tower, ‘HOPE4Newham’, a registered modation and homeowners will be demands an estate ballot in support Dennison Point will be demolished charity, founded by mother and published and delivered to residents of the plan before it provides fund- and the third, Lund Point, will also daughter duo, Anne Croney and later in the summer with an October ing for regeneration to provide up to be renovated. Q Sheryl Vincent as a small community group in October 2016, collects and delivers food and essentials to those in need. Maryland school’s humanitarian effort Pre-pandemic, the charity fed and met the needs of the homeless community in Stratford Mall several for crisis-hit island of St. Vincent nights a week. REBEKAH SAMUEL “When we started, we were serv- ing around 25-30 homeless men and women,” they said.” That number had fter learning about the plight risen to 150 when the pandemic hit. of the people in St. Vincent, HOPE4Newham has continued Maryland Primary School in A its work, because Anne and Sheryl Stratford was keen to join the hu- believe no one should go hungry. manitarian effort to help the island- They said: “Due to the number of ers still struggling after the eruption people across the Borough needing of volcano, La Soufriere. There have the support of foodbanks, our food been no further eruptions since April, suppliers are being stretched far however seismic unrest continues beyond what we expected and the and many people remain left with- amount of food we are getting has out homes, in need of assistance with been significantly reduced. food, clothing and medical treatment. In March 2020 we began serving 13 Head Teacher Lorna Jackson people and this has now risen to over explained: “We always try to sup- 150. We receive food donations from port children abroad whose country ‘The Felix Project’, as well as other is suffering a disaster, for exam- Supplies collected for children in St. Vincent after the LaSoufriere volcano eruption. food banks across the Borough.” ple the Bangladesh floods, the Haiti Photos courtesty Lorna Jackson and Charles Challenger. Montage by Rebekah Samuel. HOPE4Newham works closely with hurricane, the Thailand tsunami etc. Newham Council and other bodies to We held several assemblies where Challenger Shipping, (a member of an It demonstrates the extent to which ensure that they serve those in genu- we educated the children about St. initiative of Caribbean businesses) to second-generation Caribbean people ine need, with Anne and Sheryl sup- Vincent itself, not just as a place suf- provide aid for St. Vincent. like Head Teacher Ms Jackson have ported by their team of volunteers, fering disaster. We also had assem- Using the list provided by the char- been key in improving cross com- delivery drivers, and charity trustees. blies on what volcanoes are, and the ities, parents and children packed munity relations, to the extent that Several who have received sup- devastation they cause. The children boxes together full of all new items, people can see each other as one. The port from HOPE4Newham say that are taught to be kind and their par- socks, caps, masks, toothbrushes & ‘community of mankind’, and they receiving help made people ‘feel ents really engaged.” toothpaste, toys, backpacks, lunch- just want to help. human again’, and emotional parents With children and their families keen boxes, books, stationery etc. The donations are due to be shipped describe the joy on children’s faces to support, Maryland School collabo- Mr Challenger expressed his out to St. Vincent in coming weeks and when the food packages arrive. Q rated with, St.Lukes Primary (Canning amazement at the extent of support arrangements are in place to ensure Town), Ellen Wilkinson Primary for the St. Vincent aid initiative. “It these get distributed directly to the (Beckton), St. James’ Junior (Forest was amazing to see the amount of schools. Maryland are looking for- For information on how to help and sup- Gate), Dersingham Primary (Manor donations received which extended ward hearing how their efforts have port HOPE4Newham, go to www.face- Park) and Mr Charles Challenger of beyond the Caribbean Community. helped the people of St. Vincent. Q book.com/HOPE4Newham. 4 Newham Voices August 2021 Community News

VIEW FROM MY WARD

The Royal Docks Councillor Anthony McAlmont

oyal Docks is a ward in the London Borough of Newham. RIt is named after three docks – the Royal Albert Dock, the Royal Victoria Dock and the King George V Dock. They collectively formed the largest enclosed docks in the world, with a water area of nearly 1.0 km2 The Royal Docks 2 and an overall land size of 4.5 km . The ward is on the southernmost part of the Borough, a strip of land Symbols of Empire and Trade about 4 km long on the Thames and its connections with the rest of Newham is via the Sir Steve Redgrave ANTHONY MCALMONT There was also an expansion of hous- bridge – I called it the Island. It has ing in areas later known as Custom about 10,000 residents. he British Empire was expand- House, Silvertown (so named after Royal Docks is home to the ing and there was need for Samuel Silver’s waterproof clothing University of East London, ExCel Tmore trade. With the advent of works), and West Silvertown. Exhibition Centre, London City steam ships, larger and deeper docks The Royal Docks suffered severe Airport, the Emirates Air Line (cable were required to cope with the in- damage during World War II. It is car) that links the Royal Victoria Dock creased size of the steam ships. estimated that some 25,000 tons of with North Greenwich, the Crystal First to be built were the East and ordnance fell on the docklands, with - soon to be home of the London West India Docks, which helped much of that on the Royal Docks Assembly – Thames Barrier Park, relieve the pressure on cargo berths and surrounding area. Human Lyle park, Royal Victoria Garden and for a while. But it was not enough. losses were extremely high, but in the Thames Barriers. It has three end of the 20th Century. The growing city needed a radi- spite of the sustained bombard- primary schools and one secondary However, the Royal Docks could cal solution. The answer was the ment, the Royal Docks remained school under construction. not sustain a viable business with Victoria Dock which was opened in open and helped keep Britain sup- It is well served by road connec- the introduction of container- 1855. However, it soon became evi- plied with food. tions. An extension of the Docklands ised cargo, and other technological dent that more wharf space was Towards the end of the war, the Light Railway (DLR) provides direct changes. Large container ports were required and plans for another dock Royal Docks played a vital role links to the City, London City Airport, developed further down the river were developed. when the portable harbours for Canary Wharf and Woolwich Arsenal and gradually the Royal Docks busi- the Normandy landings were con- in the south east. Crossrail will con- ness fell into decline. The closure structed in secret within the docks nect Royal Docks Custom House with led to massive unemployment and themselves. Despite the damage, the Liverpool Street in just 10 minutes. social problems across East London, Royal Docks enjoyed a brief boom in In its heyday, the docks drew peo- but it has become a centre of regen- trade after the war and for a while ple and produce from all over the eration in recent years. Q it looked as though the docks would world before its closure to commer- continue to thrive through to the All photos via www.londonsroyaldocks.com cial activities in 1981. However, it is reviving to become a hive of activities as most of the water area still exists. The docks’ principal use is now water sports, but they do see occa- sional visits by naval and mer- The Royal Albert Dock was opened chant vessels. Management of the in 1880. It was longer than Victoria water areas, including locks and Dock, and featured some unique bridges, is now the responsibility of innovations, such as railway lines Royal Docks Management Authority that went straight to the dock edge, Limited (RoDMA). and refrigerated warehousing to The ExCel hosted seven events store perishable goods. The last of in the 2012 Olympics as well as the three docks is the King George V Paralympics. Dock which was opened in 1921. The Royal Docks is London’s only As a result of the increased com- Enterprise Zone – a special area of mercial activities, employment opportunity where business rates are opportunities increased, creating a reinvested back into the area to sup- huge demand for accommodation for port economic growth. Investment workers. Hence, new villages such as in the Royal Docks is likely to reach Canning Town and North Woolwich. more than £8bn by 2038. Community News Newham Voices August 2021 5

Alison Steadman opens the Kew Gardens of the East Exhibition in West Ham Park

NICKY BROWN London Corporation. The exhibition has been devel- unday 4 July started cloudy and oped by the Friends of West Ham raining - but by the time 2pm Park with the help and support of Srolled around the sun had de- The City of London Corporation, Dr cided to come out. In plenty of time John Edmondson, Kew Gardens, The for the opening of the Friends of Friends Library (the Quakers), British West Ham Park’s new, permanent, Library, Australian National Maritime exhibition celebrating the life and Museum and Fitzpatrick Woolmer. work of Dr John Fothergill, which At the same time a small craft can be found in the Rose Garden. event took place, where children They have called this exhibition were asked to design a new flower the ‘Kew Gardens of the East’ as for Dr Fothergill to discover - there the plant collection it contained was were some great designs including only rivalled by Kew. the much loved One-Eyed Flower Some of Dr Fothergill’s exten- and the fantastical Lite Trapper! Q sive gardens are now in West Ham Park - it’s thought some of the Find out more about the Friends of West greenhouses are on the site of the Ham Park: ones belonging to Dr Fothergill. The exhibition was opened by actor friendsofwesthampark.co.uk Alison Steadman, a keen environ- [email protected] mentalist, who was accompanied by  @FriendsOfWestHamPark her partner Michael Elwyn.  @fwhp_e9 Alison is a friend of local actor Marlene Sidaway, and they are both frequent visitors to the park. A crowd of about 60 people turned up to watch Alison untie the ribbon Flower garden tribute to Bettina and open the exhibition, after which local boy Aaron Caroo presented her Alison Steadman and Winston Vaughan share a light moment on the with a bunch of flowers picked from latest memorial bench in the flower garden unveiled a week before the gardens (see page one picture). the exhibition was launched. The bench pays tribute to Bettina Peters, Also in attendance were Councillor a founding patron of Newham Voices, who died last year, aged 57. Winston Vaughan, Chair of Newham Bettina (left), who lived in nearby Vicarage Road, was a leading figure in Council and First Citizen of the the world of international media development and lover of the flower Borough, and Caroline Haines and garden. Picture Jack Robertson Martin Rodman from the City of

Reflections on the poetic side of Newham life. This Poetry in Mind month we feature a poem by Zhenreenah Muhxing LOCKDOWN – COVID Go Out Now And Again I’m Have To Do Social Distancing Do As We Are Told Can’t Even Hug My Grandchildren I’m Living Inna Lockdown – No Question Asked It’s Annoying Stay At Home Closed The Windows, Closed The Doors Isolation Is Not The Answer And Shut Down Life is a bore! Playing Tricks On Me too much Banter Economy Gone Down I Had A Melt Down No Fresh Air For Hours And Hours Why does it feel like Controlling? I Feel Low Right Now I heard 5G Is Coming, Stronger And Stronger My Eyes In My Head Are Rolling Wifi Attacking Senses, We Won’t Be Here Any Friends And Loved Ones Are Dying Where’s My Life Longer How Many More How Many More I’m Suffering From Stress And Strife Is It A Target To Score? Help Me, Help Me Creator Drink Lemon Ginger And Honey Is This Pandemic Design To Separate Us? To Get Through This Now And Later Your Life Will Go Further No Crowd Gathering, Even if It’s not sunny To Stay Alive Stay Alive No Church Praying Do This Do That Take Vitamin To Thrive Panic Buying We Will Get Together That’s A Must Because Of Corona For Toilet Rolls I Have The Right Death Is Round The Corner Pack The Cupboards Almighty Is By Our Side I Stay At Home My Immune System No More Space Them Caw Hold Our Connection Getting Weaker And Weaker Long Line In A Supermarket Is Our Protection To The Brim I Think I Rather Shop On Line So We Rise, Rise, Rise Told To Wear Gloves Wear A Mask, And Rest Mi Behind! AND WE WILL SURVIVE, SURVIVE SURVIVE 6 Newham Voices August 2021 Lifestyle

Cecilia Cran says act now to ensure a burst of autumn colour, plus she discovers a hidden gem that’s well worth a look

What to grow: Autumn crocus Bulbs like full sunlight, so find bulbs them a spot where they’ll get max- Get planting crocus bulbs now and imum sunshine. They are also a you’ll have a carpet of colour come favourite of inquisitive mice, squir- mid-September. These delicate rels and foxes who like to dig them purple petalled beauties with their up and/or eat them, so if you have vibrant orange stamen are guaran- any of these in your garden, consider teed to bring some cheer as we look netting the bulbs for an added layer towards autumn. They flower from of protection. September through to November and : although they have a relatively short Green escape: Plaistow Park The Forest Tavern in Forest Gate shelf life, they certainly pack a fabu- To the untrained eye, this spot may lous colourful punch while they last. not seem like much. However, when They are fast growing and work well you set foot inside the park, there in pots or can be planted directly into is far more to it than initially meets the ground. the eye. Much of where the site now sits is where the former Essex House was built, dating back to Tudor times. The house was demolished in the mid Phil Mellows discovers a homely tavern 1800s and the land was taken over by with big ambitions for Forest Gate West Ham Council, who created the public park. Initially, it began life in lot of people still think most busy freshening the place up, sand- 1894 as the ‘Balaam Street Recreation pubs are owned by brewers. ing the floors and painting the front. Ground’, but in 1999, after signifi- That hasn’t been true since With head chef Joao Pires, he also cant restoration was completed, it A was re-christened ‘Plaistow Park’. the big break-up of the industry served takeaway fish and chips on during the 1990s, when a handful Fridays and Saturdays, and roasts on Entering the park by Greengate of giant non-brewing pubcos, and Sundays. “It was a good way of get- street you immediately pass a well- a plethora of small ones, came to ting to know our customers,” he says. kept, compact children’s play area. dominate the trade. Those customers were quick to take Following the path onwards you come But in recent years, some newer advantage of the pub’s two gardens to the most beautiful Hansel and breweries have been building their when outdoor service resumed, and Gretel style house, completely cov- own pub estates, to help guaran- since fully reopening “feedback has ered in lush, green ivy and surrounded tee a level of beer sales and provide been good,” says Olly. “Forest Gate by trees. It is fabulous and looks like another income stream. is new to me, but I like the area and a modern day piece of art, a living One of them is west London’s the people, it’s got its own identity.” sculpture right on our doorstep. Portobello Brewing, which at the end Unlike traditional breweries, Follow the path onwards and on of last year took over Forest Gate’s Portobello pubs sell beers from other How to grow: one side you will pass further chil- Forest Tavern – formerly the Railway. brewers alongside its own. The Forest These are one of the easiest, low dren’s play areas, some swings and a Founded in 2012 after a modest currently has Portobello’s Westway maintenance, most rewarding plants slightly tired looking football pitch, start, its ambitions became clear in Pale and Sambrook’s Wandle Ale on to grow. while on the other side, you’ll see a October 2020 when it appointed as cask, while on the keg taps its Pilsner To get started, choose whether you couple of well-maintained basket- chairman Mark Crowther, one of the and Helles lagers plus Stiff Lip IPA will be planting them in a pot or the ball courts. At the end of the park is industry’s big names. sit alongside beers from local craft ground. For the purposes of this, the ornamental garden where you’ll Within weeks Portobello acquired brewers, including Forest Gate’s own I’ll refer to pot planting (but all the find a great variety of roses - sadly, a parcel of 13 pubs from pubco Antic, Pretty Decent. same rules apply). just coming to the end of season, a including the Forest Tavern, launch- Another difference regulars will Choose your pot, it is important sea of purple lavender beds which the bees were loving and a pretty ing its bid to be “London’s regional notice is the food. It’s a familiar that you choose a pot big enough, as (if somewhat overgrown) fountain, bre we r”. menu of unfussy pub classics but, the bulbs will need to be planted at a complete with water lilies. The park Such lofty corporate goals unusually, everything but the bread depth of 10cm and should be spaced lost its bandstand over the years and shouldn’t bother the Forest’s cus- and the ice-cream is made on the no less than 5cm apart. could do with a little TLC, but there tomers, though. For them, manager premises. Start by filling your pot with some are still some lovely features which I Olly Pentelow is the new face of the What Olly hopes will make the grit – this will provide good drain- think are well worth a look. Q pub, supported by a mix of old and Forest “the best pub in Forest Gate”, age and help prevent the risk of bulbs new staff. though, will be his team. “We just rotting off. Then add in your peat free Olly joined in January, during lock- want to look after people here, like compost and decide on the formation down, and until reopening was kept welcoming them into our home.” Q you want to put your bulbs in – before planting them in, I always lay mine out on the top of the soil to make sure they’re evenly spaced. Bulbs must be planted with the pointed tip facing Next month: special upwards towards the sky and must be planted to the right depth and spac- feature on Forest Gate ing – see above. Once the bulbs have been planted, gently press down on Community Gardens the top of soil to ensure the bulbs will be making contact with the soil and ©Myanah Saunders then water well. Community News Newham Voices August 2021 7

Tatiana joins Covid symptoms? It’s No 10 tribute to nursery workers Tatiana Suliga, a nursery worker in not so simple after all Manor Park, was a guest of Prime Minister Boris Johnson at a special reception on July 15 to pay tribute RICHARD STUBBS sore throat or runny nose, and more variant has more cold-like symptoms. to the work of child care workers like a bad cold according to The ZOE The Department of Health and Social during the Covid emergency. ven people who have had one Covid Symptom Study app, a not-for- Care admits that Covid-19 has a ‘much Tatiana is a Lead Early Years Prac- or two doses of vaccination profit initiative that was launched at longer list of symptoms than the ones titioner staff member at Sheringham Ecan still catch Covid, although initially used in the case definition.’Q Children’s Centre and Nursery in it is unlikely to be severe. If you are …your three most likely Manor Park. She was nominated by sneezing a lot and you check Cov- symptoms of Covid are her colleagues to join a group of nurs- id-19 symptoms on the NHS web site The following website and online ery workers at the reception. you’ll be told that a high tempera- headache, sore throat or resources will provide more infor- Tatiana met the Prime Minister ture, a new continuous cough and runny nose, and more like mation and support for people wor- and some of his team to discuss the loss or change to sense of smell or ried about the impact of long Covid contribution of nursery staff working taste are the major symptoms. a bad cold… and recovery from a bout of the through one of the most challenging If you have any of these you are illness itself. periods in recent UK history. advised to get a PCR test as soon as She said: “I was really privileged possible. But should you relax because the end of March 2020 to support • Supporting your recovery after to be nominated by my colleagues to you have none of these symptoms? vital Covid-19 research. covid: www.yourcovidrecovery. attend. It was a short, socially dis- No, you should not relax! The symp- The app (https://covid.joinzoe.com/ nhs.uk tanced meeting, a great experience post/new-top-5-covid-symptoms) toms and severity of Covid-19 differ • The Royal college of Occupational to listen and talk to the Prime Min- has attracted more than 4.6 million according to how many vaccinations Therapists Resources, provide ister about how we’d found working you have had, if any. If you have been contributors who log in on a daily advice at www.rcot.co.uk/con- through Covid, and the challenges fully vaccinated your three most basis to report how they are feeling. It serving-energy and also on how we’d all faced. was launched by health science com- likely symptoms of having Covid are to manage fatigue after covid - headache, runny nose or sneezing. pany ZOE with scientific analysis pro- www.rcot.co.uk/node/3540 A high temperature ranks as the vided by King’s College London. twelfth most likely symptom, a per- There are around 1018 contributors • Covid-19 Patient Rehabilitation sistent cough the eighth and a loss in Newham. Others should sign up. It Booklet flipbooks.leedsth.nhs.uk/ of smell the fifth so it is perfectly takes a couple of minutes and any- LN004864.pdf possible for you to have none of the one with non-standard Covid symp- • Resources and webinars: www. “standard” symptoms and yet still toms will be offered a PCR test. longcovid.org/resources/patients have Covid. The Government has not so far indi- cated plans to update its official list • Yoga for post covid patients - Indeed, even if you haven’t been Tatiana is seen outside Downing Street vaccinated, your three most likely of Covid symptoms, despite research www.theyogaforlifeproject. elbowing with MP Vicki Ford the Under symptoms of Covid are headache, indicating the now-dominant Delta co.uk/book-online Secretary of State for Children and Families It’s time to celebrate with Pride COCO GARCIA ACEVEDO through events and activities,aiming nity a few decades ago. The different Newham to do the same. The aim is to enrich the LGBTQIA+ people in the LGBTQ associations and charities in to have fun in Pride, but also under- ride is a celebration of love and neighbourhood, and also increase East London are working to bring stand why it exists and make every- friendship, to show how far awareness within the allyship body. back that sentiment, and it’s time for one welcome. Q PLGBTQ+ rights have come, and Between 13-15th August, Forest how much there is still to be done. Gayte will host a series of events, in Advertisment It’s an opportunity to celebrate, to collaboration with local venues and remember, and to be aware. the council. Talks, performances Across the country – and the world and activities will take place in a - different pride events and initi- covid-secure and accessible frame, atives take place not only to cele- for everyone to feel welcome. You brate the LGBTQ community, but as can find out more about the events an act of allyship to understand the at forestgaytepride.com Have a look past struggles and work towards the at their funding options, and how to future achievements, aiming for a get involved in the project! better society together. Celebrating queer culture in It’s also about acceptance, love, col- our neighbourhood is not only an ours and being proud of who you are. opportunity to have fun and connect Although London Pride will happen with our neighbours, but a moment this year at the end of September (if to take pride in our community and nothing changes from latest govern- see how to do things better as a ment updates) at Newham we have whole. our very own Pride in August, Forest Newham is one of the most ethni- Gayte Pride. cally diverse boroughs in London, but It is organised by a grassroots we can’t say the same thing when it community based in Newham, comes to gender and sexuality, even working with allies and volunteers when East London used to be “the to engage with the local community place to be” for the queer commu- 8 Newham Voices August 2021 Community News

A guide to some of the best events, compiled by Neandra Etienne Summer Holiday Programme Active Newham summer pro- gramme includes both youth and family activities at various parks IT’S ALL FUN AND GAMES across the Borough. Event high- lights include family yoga, pilates, martial arts, multisports and box- ing. All events are free. activenewhamsummer.eventbrite. IN NEWHAM IN AUGUST!AUGUST! co.uk newham.gov.uk/downloads/ file/3446/summer-21-activities-3

Coffee Plus at Pilgrims Way Get together and socialise with new educational activities and support In the exhilarating 40-second trip, Events include cycling, music pro- and old friends during free coffee services for up to 400 elders each riders are expected to hit speeds of duction (TV and Film) and skate- mornings every Tuesday 11:00am- week. Their social programme usu- up to 15 miles per hour! boarding. 12.30pm Pilgrims Way Hall, East ally includes regular coffee morn- Queen Elizabeth Park, Stratford www.changegrowlive.org/head- Ham. Refreshments and activities ings, a lunch club and activities queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk/ start-newham/summer-activities are provided. such as quiz nights, bingo, arts and whats-on Pilgrims Way, East Ham, E6 1HW. En- crafts sessions and darts. Newham South Asian Heritage trance Myrtle Road opposite Sainsbury’s In addition, they provide a be- Ghosts: The Great Unidentifiable 3 AUGUST – 17 AUGUST [email protected] friending service for those older 23 JULY – 30 AUGUST A variety of free arts and cultural 020 3373 0859 people who may be feeling lonely and Doug Jack Jones and Yelnats invite events showcasing and celebrating isolated for a whole range of reasons. you to their Ghosts: The Great Uni- South Asian history, literature and Bart’s Café Ring 07449 105 436 for more info. dentifiable, a sculptural installation food are taking place in various Bart’s Café has been based in St [email protected] exhibition. locations in Newham. Highlights Bartholomew’s Church and Centre bonnydowns.org/whats-on The Canning Gallery, 11 Brunel St, E16 1EB include: Young People’s Art Project, since 1983. They hold regular group canninggallery.art Film Screening of Mogul Mowgli events and activities Tuesdays to and South Asian Games. Fridays 11:00am - 2pm. You can Summer Family Activities newhamsouthasianheritage.org bring your own projects or they can 30 JULY – 20 AUGUST provide you with one West Silvertown Foundation is Still Life Drawing at Number 8 • Tuesdays - Stitch with Chris running activities for families with 4, 11, 18, AND 25 AUGUST • Thursdays - Knit and Natter under 5s and for those aged 5-14. 4pm – 5.30pm, 6pm -7.30pm • Fridays - Scrabble Group; Begin- The events include stay and play at Artist Eleanor Pearce’s intensive ners are welcome to join in. Royal Wharf Community Dock and a drawing short courses are taking Picnic in Barrier Park by the play- place after hours at Number 8. You Coffee Mornings with the East ground. will be drawing from the antiques Edge Sisters WI takes place every There is no need to register be- and collectables at the Emporium and 1st Friday of the month (11 am - 2 Photo via londoncityisland.com/theislander forehand just turn up with your own taking inspiration from the art from pm). Everyone is welcome to join picnic basket. All the activities are the past. £60, material included. the Women’s Institute for a coffee ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide free to attend. Number 8 Forest Gate Emporium, 8 and a chat, whether you’re a mem- Measuring 178m, The Slide is the wsfroyaldocks.org/whats-on Sebert Road, E7 ber or not. world’s tallest and longest tunnel  @eleanorpearcearttutor St Bartholomew’s Church, 292b Barking slide. The Slide twists and turns 12 Royal Docks Road, East Ham, E6 3BA times, including a tight corkscrew A variety of family-friendly events easthamparish.org.uk section named the ‘bettfeder’ – will be taking place in one of the after the German word for ‘bed- most significantly regenerated parts Elders Project spring.’ The Slide ends with a 50 of Newham. Bonny Downs offer a wide range metre straight run to the ground. Event highlights include Kids of social groups, exercise classes, Summer Splash (31 July - 22 August) dock swimming, super sandpits, Advertisment and family chill-out zones. Writer and journalist Owen Hather- ley leads a three-hour guided walk: Spaces of Silvertown tour (7 August) you will explore how the area has transformed over the decades. Poet and playwright Inua Ellams takes you on a walking tour: Play and Place (14 August) packed with creative activities. Royal Victoria Dock royaldocks.london/whats-on

Creative Activities 2-6, 9-13 AND 16-20 AUGUST HeadStart Newham is working in partnership with Creative Arts and Sports Activities (CASA) Youth Em- powerment Service and East London Dance to organise a variety of free creative arts and sports activities for young people aged 10-16 living in Newham. Community News Newham Voices August 2021 9

IT’S ALL FUN AND GAMES IN NEWHAM IN AUGUST!AUGUST!

Cookie’s Island Summer Fun Day need any advice. It’s free to attend 7 AUGUST and light refreshments are provided. Session Times: 10am 12pm 2pm or Silver Building Café & bar, 60 Dock 4pm (90 minute play) Road, E16 1YZ There are lots of activities to keep [email protected] your children entertained. The  @sew_social_newham price includes play and meal, fun and games and you can also have Forest Gayte Pride

your photo taken during a meet and 13 – 15 AUGUST E20 Youth Summer Stratford Youth Zone, Theatre Square, A series of events featuring some greet with a mascot. There are two free events for young E15 1BX of East London’s most influential For sale on the day will be Carib- people ages 11-17 at various loca- newham-music.org.uk performers will be celebrating Ne- bean food, mocktails, desserts, face tions. Games & Food takes place 20 [email protected] wham’s LGBTQIA+ Culture. painting/tattoos.Prices: 6 months to August 5pm. The Funfair is on 27  @newhammusic 2 years £10 (Under 1’s up to 2 adults Talks and performances will be August at 5pm. free), 3 years to 11years £12.95, Adults taking place online and in Cov- There is no cost for the activities; Open Day and Pop-Up Café £2.50. Book your place 020 7473 3070 id-secure venues across the week- however donations can be made to- 28 AUGUST 12PM – 5PM Gallions Reach Shopping Park, end, ensuring they are accessible wards the cost if parents/guardians If you enjoy homemade cakes with 3 Armada Way, Beckton, E6 7ER for everyone, wherever you are and would like to contribute. tea or coffee and some chat the Café cookiesisland.com whatever your situation. Spaces are limited, booking is open the last Saturday of each Follow #fgpride21 on social media is required via email: Office@ month. Sew Social for updates and info. churche20.co.uk. Red Door Studios, Rear of 120 High 7 AUGUST forestgaytepride.com www.Churche20.co.uk Street South E6 3RW 11am – 1.30pm or 1.30pm – 4pm throughthereddoor.org If you want to meet other textile The Islander Festival Mixtape in a Week creative minded people, learn a new 13 AND 27 AUGUST 23 – 28 AUGUST skill or work on your own project Street food markets featuring a col- 10am – 4pm you can join the Sew Social Ne- lection of international cuisines will Newham Music is bringing its pop-up wham group. They meet every first be taking place in partnership with studio space to Stratford Youth Zone Saturday of the month in the Sil- Urban Food Fest and Ace Events. for a week. They are inviting young ver Building. Sewing machines are The free festival will feature live people aged 15+ to write, produce and available and help is on hand if you music performances from sing- perform a mixtape in a week for free. er-songwriter Logan J Parker and You will be guided by Newham Afrobeats superstar Vincent Bugozi. Music’s team of professional pro- London City Island, Kent Building, Mar- ducers, rappers, singers and keting, 45 Hope St, London E14 0QG award-winning facilitator, director

londoncityisland.com/theislander and poet Kat Francois. Mudchute Farms horse riding activities Register by 16 August to attend organised by Headstart Newham Newham Unlocked Online Festival 14 – 16 AUGUST Surveillance: Dance like no-one is Advertisment watching is an action-packed week- end of performance, courtesy of Ne- wham Council and arts organisation Certain Blacks. The event travels virtually to Ne- wham locations, enabling audiences to experience an exciting selection of London-based artists from any- where in the world. newhamunlockedfestival.org

Music Classes with Helen WEEKS OF 16 AND 23 AUGUST Early Years Music teacher Helen’s summer music classes for Under 2s, Over 2s with a parent/carer and free workshops for newham families: siblings up to the age of six will be 5 – 12 year olds taking place at VE6 Coffee. play with sound £7 per session.. Morning and after- noon classes are available tinker with rainsticks 7–28 august VE6 296 Plashet Grove, E6 1DQ explore digital cities book now at ioi.london/whats-on  @musicclasseswithhelen 10 Newham Voices August 2021 Disability Focus Living a world of difference I love looking at life through my kaleidoscope of neurodiversity

he letter was from the assess- For , getting a diagnosis of dyslexia, there is such a lack of understand- ment centre. As I opened it, my Shofa Miah ing and acceptance around learning Theart froze, and the air turned dyspraxia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder difficulties and neurodiversity. Even thick. I scrolled to the bottom to read on professional platforms, we wit- the evaluation: at 43 was like finding the last piece of the jigsaw. ness unfair practices. This topic, like “April 2021 Private and confiden- disability and mental health, holds a tial: Evaluation of Needs Outcome … Looking at where I am now, while years has brought rewards. We are lot of stigma. you show complex, interrelated char- reflecting on the journey so far – now a fully registered charity with Many of us hold trauma from acteristics of dyslexia and dyspraxia I give credit to my ADHD traits. a permanent base in the heart of childhood as we witnessed or were co-occurring with attention deficit Without them I would not be who I Newham! on the receiving end of physical hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). am and where I am. All elements of I did all this WITHOUT being diag- chastisement (by parents, family “It is common for these spe- my body and environment are con- nosed as a neurodivergent individual. members, teachers, faith institutes). cific learning difficulties to occur tinuously active – physical, psycho- I wonder, had I been diagnosed in Reasons to beat were because you together and for there to be areas of logical, social, emotional. I don’t see my childhood, would it have created are not academically intelligent, you overlap in their presentation. ADHD what is in front of me, but beyond. a barrier? Or would it have been an cannot spell, disappointing grades, is both a learning difficulty and a As if my eyes look through an accelerator, as I would have received inadequate handwriting, not mem- medical condition.” orising or pronouncing words well. Receiving this news felt like I was Many of us learnt through fear, we placing the last piece in a jigsaw were led to believe that the academic puzzle – a puzzle I have been work- child is the more intelligent child. ing out for 43 years. That is my age Emotional intelligence was rarely now. I felt relief, triumph, validated, celebrated. proud and for the first time – a little In the past I would not have been cleverer! I am Neurodivergent. brave enough to openly have writ- I messaged my husband of 19 years ten this article. But I have made a and my two closest cousins with a conscious decision to do this in the screen shot and wrote ‘‘It’s official, I hope that it will help make changes always told you I was NOT normal”. to people’s attitudes. I hope anyone My cousin’s exact words were: “I reading this shifts their mindset wouldn’t let that report hinder your around understanding their child or abilities. You know your strengths so themselves. focus on that and better yourself!’’ Being neurodivergent is not a condi- I knew this was a time for reflec- tion to be ashamed of. It can enhance tion. Time to stop – slow down and your personal and professional career breathe. This is a ‘medical’ condition - giving you opportunities to explore, and like all health issues, it needs embrace, accept, challenge, adapt and spotlight, care and nurturing. There show your brilliance - because that are many negative traits of ADHD, is what you are. such as being hyperactive, forgetful, Fortunately for me, my employer impulsive, overly generous, rest- immediately recognised my skill less, can’t stay on point. But like my sets and hard-working ethics and cousin highlighted, there are also gave me flexibility to just do my job positive traits such as supernova effectively. Most professional meet- energy, eagerness, seeing connec- ings I attend, I am usually the least tions others don’t, persistence, cre- Shofa Miah formally qualified individual in the ativity, being calm in chaos and my room – but not the least intelligent favourite one, shows flashes of bril- or experienced! infrared lens – my eyes look through support to manage myself better? liance! My wish is for all employers to be as a moving kaleidoscope, continuously. I will never work out the answer Receiving this diagnosis has also inclusive as my own organisation. My It is a tiring place to be sometimes. I to that, but I can conclude that my brought up past trauma. I am contin- diagnosis was made possible because want to fix the world and find solu- pathway to education, marriage, uing to get flashbacks of my younger I am currently on a People Leadership tions to everything, even things I motherhood and career was via self. Those difficult moments, Programme via a company called have limited knowledge about! alternative routes. throughout childhood, teen years Multiverse. Multiverse listened to me As well as being a mum of three Throughout our lives we all expe- and adulthood where I could have and sent me forward to be assessed. children, I work full time, leading rience barriers such as inequality benefited from supporting adults - Since receiving the diagnosis my two demanding platforms for Youth and exclusion. Whatever gender you and perhaps medication – to sleep. tutor is hand holding me through the I get by on four hours’ sleep usu- and Parents for Local Government. identify as, you can be exposed to assignments, adjusting and helping ally, as I just cannot switch off. Having only been with my organi- forms of abuse such as gender ine- me to keep up with the rest of the Other factors that affect my sleep sation for four years, I have received quality, racial, social, emotional, cohort! This is Inclusion. are due to needing extra time to get two step-up promotions as well as a financial, physical, sexual, and psy- I will never stop being neurodiver- my professional work completed – I staff award for outstanding perfor- chological abuse within and outside gent, it is for life. But I actually love am always working that extra mile mance and as a result I was put for- the family circle. looking at the world through my eyes to keep up with everyone. Learning ward to become a brand ambassador You are important and belong one - It is a rainbow-coloured kaleido- difficulties Dyslexia and Dyspraxia for my organisation. day, but the next, you are no longer scope. It keeps me active, gives me are serious conditions – I remember In my personal time just before the valued as you have dishonoured the purpose and I feel I am changing the my assessor saying, how you have pandemic, I started a local project family. We see and hear many stories world every time I have a new idea! Q come this far in your career without in Newham, called Ashok’s Vision, like these in all our communities. letting these be barriers proves that focusing on Youth Mental Health. It is tragic to think that we have you’re a soldier. Working seven days a week for two evolved so much as a society yet Follow Shofa Miah @ashoksvision Disability Focus Newham Voices August 2021 11 Let’s face it, illness is not a taboo Daphne Stedman talks about her experience of living with multiple conditions.

n 1981 I was diagnosed with type cells, resulting in some part of the 1 diabetes. The following day I body no longer working correctly. Istarted on insulin injections, If you met me at a party, it would which I soon learned (and indeed not be obvious straight away that I already knew) would be needed for had any of these conditions. An astute the rest of my life. I was 16 years old. observer (perhaps a rheumatologist) In 1984 I was diagnosed with an might notice that some of my knuckle overactive thyroid (Graves’ disease). joints are swollen, and my right wrist This has recurred a couple of times is knobbly and does not bend. since. Each time, it was treated with You might suspect something when a two-year course of medication to I start asking lots of questions about suppress the overactivity of the thy- food – what food is to be served; roid gland. does it contain a lot of carbohydrate In 2004 I was diagnosed with or sugar; etc? I need that informa- rheumatoid arthritis. This is a type tion to plan how much insulin I need of inflammatory arthritis, in which before I eat. the membranes of the joints become If at a party I got into conversation inflamed. It usually starts in small with you about my “conditions”, joints in the hands and feet, though I wonder how long your attention many other joints can be affected. span might be? Talking about illness There are drugs which can suppress is often considered taboo. Did I go the inflammation, but they don’t into too much detail about the con- Daphne Stedman work for everyone. Permanent joint ditions I have? Is it overwhelming damage from the inflammatory pro- to the listener hearing that I have cess can occur if the right drug com- three auto-immune conditions? On a Sometimes I meet people who are when doing a feature on someone who bination is not found, or not found practical basis, what does living with really interested to know and under- has a particular chronic condition. quickly enough. these conditions mean for me day to stand more, and I do my best to We might be told that so-and-so has All the conditions I have are day? How do they affect my ability to explain. type 1 diabetes and has to give insu- auto-immune diseases, in which the work? What about other areas of life In the media, it often seems to me lin injections several times a day and body attacks and destroys its own they might affect? that news reports over-simplify things test their blood glucose level regularly. Perhaps less easy to get across is the particular burden of daily behaviours that are needed to control type 1 dia- betes well. In my experience, it is dif- Everyone must have a fair chance at work ficult for most people to grasp this. I see I’ve drifted into explaining more ZHENREENAH MUHXINGA runs a scheme called Change100, crimination. These cover most about one of my conditions… which brings together the UK’s top areas including: Another area that can be challenging person is ‘disabled’ if they employers and talented disabled • employment when you have more than one con- have a physical or men- dition is health care. I am under two students. • education A tal impairment which has a Change 100 is its flagship pro- hospital specialists – a diabetes/endo- • dealing with the police substantial and long-term difficult gramme of paid summer work crine specialist and a rheumatologist. effect on their ability to carry out placements, professional develop- The Equality Act 2010 and the What if treatment offered for one con- normal day-to-day activities. ment and mentoring. United Nations (UN) Convention dition upsets another condition? For Some disabilities are hidden. A example, steroids are sometimes used on disability rights help to enforce, person who does not use a wheel- to reduce inflammation in my joints. Know your rights protect and promote your rights. chair, walk well enough or has a Whatever your physical or learn- Steroids, as some will be aware, upset Contact Leonard Cheshire on 020 hearing aid, does not mean that ing disability, you have a right blood glucose control. I regularly have 3242 0299 or email change100ap- he/she does not have a disability. to equality, fairness, respect and to remind the rheumatologist that I [email protected] Invisible disabilities include learn- understanding at your workplace. have diabetes when I am being offered ing disabilities. Employees and jobseekers with a steroid injection for my joints. Almost half of working-age peo- disabilities are legally protected USEFUL LINKS In January 2021 I was hospital- ple with disabilities in the UK are against discrimination under the Action and Rights of Disabled ised with Covid-19 pneumonia. I was employed. But this figure should Equality Act 2010. People in Newham immediately started on the steroid be higher. With the right support, You’re legally entitled to fair 0207 473 9655 Dexamethasone, which in my case many more could be working. treatment when it comes to [email protected] definitely helped me recover. However, If you have a disability, some recruitment, promotion and pay. ADHD UK it upset my blood sugars (as I knew it people are worried they may not would). I find it is certainly the case www.adhduk.co.uk be employable. Disability Rights that I have to be my own doctor to But there’s lots of guidance, sup- Contact: Plexal British Dyslexia Association some extent. That can mean making port and training to help you into 14 East Bay Lane, Here East www.bdadyslexia.org.uk health professionals aware that I am living with more than one condition, employment. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Mental health Charity schemes can help raise and that treatments for one condition Stratford London E20 3BS www.mithn.org.uk awareness and challenge the ste- General Enquiry 0330 995 0400 may affect another condition, and that reotypes about people with disa- [email protected] Complex Needs and one condition may affect another! bilities to make sure everyone has Disabilities Service We all need to understand better a fair chance of working. As a disabled person, you have 0208 475 2301 what it is like to live with a chronic The charity, Leonard Cheshire, rights to protect you from dis- [email protected] condition, and even more so when one person has several such conditions. Q 12 Newham Voices August 2021 Community Spotlight

Spotlight on Charities: Our monthly focus on community groups

Richard House From the moment a child is di- Applecart Arts Survivors Together Applecart Arts is a community arts Newham Muslim Safety Forum agnosed with a life-limiting Survivors Together is a social group venue. We will soon be moving to the The Newham Muslim Safety Forum or life-threatening condition, for female survivors of sexual abuse. Passmore Edwards Library in Plashet (NMSF) works in partnership with everything changes. And these Our main purpose is to provide a re- Grove, reopening the building with a Markazi Jamia Masjid at their Food- changes affect the whole family, laxed environment where women theatre, meeting spaces, artist studi- bank project. which is why it is vital to provide not survivors can socialise and try new os and café. We are running a public Every Saturday, we give out an av- only care to the child, but support activities with people who under- consultation to find out what local erage of 300 packages to people who to the whole family as well. To do stand. Based in East London, our residents would like to see and how have no recourse to public funds this Richard House services range meeting activities include crafts, Thai we can best serve our community (see (NRPF), asylum seekers, internation- from specialised clinical care, to art, chi and guest speakers. page 15): al students and anyone who is strug- music, and dance therapy; giving gling in difficult times. Please contact Yvonne at: bit.ly/ApplecartHaveYourSay the child the opportunity to explore Our packages contain essential 07961 351361 what is happening to them in a safe www.applecartarts.com items, including groceries, bakery [email protected] environment, through to end of life [email protected] products, fresh fruit and vegetables. www.survivorstogether.co.uk care and pre and post bereavement  @ApplecartArts For those with children, we also pro- support for all the family.  @ApplecartArts vided baby milk, nappies, toys and www.richardhouse.org.uk  @applecartarts clothing. tel: 020 7511 0222 For more information or donations, email: [email protected] contact our lead coordinator Me- hmood Mirza on 07916 344575. [email protected]  @NMSForum  nmsforum Community News Newham Voices August 2021 13 NewVic partnership aims to end bias over entry to top universities

NOAH ENAHORO formed in 2018 by a group nificantly determined by the of headteachers committed school or college you attend. ewham Sixth Form to increasing access to the According to figures, 61% College has announced country’s most competitive of private school pupils Na new partnership universities for students from access ‘top third’ universi- to address the underrep- non-selective state schools. ties compared to only 19% resentation of ethnic minor- The partnership will cre- of non-selective state school ity students in the country’s ate regional connections pupils, and only 5% of ‘dis- top universities. with school leaders, univer- advantaged’ pupils access NewVIc is the first college sities, corporates and third ‘top third’ universities. in Newham to partner with sector partners to do this, The new partnership will ‘The Elephant Group’, which and co-deliver their Year 12 give NewVic students the will provide quality education - 13 Elephant Access Pro- skills, knowledge, resources, and support to students from gramme to support students and interactions with uni- minority ethnic backgrounds to achieve their potential. versity students from similar within an area that is ranked In the UK, access to the backgrounds to increase the as one of the more deprived most selective ‘top third’ number of successful appli- boroughs in London. universities, and onwards cations to competitive uni- “This is an exciting oppor- into top professions, is sig- versities. Q tunity for students from NewVIc and schools in Newham,” said Magdalena Johnson, Vice Principal at to progress on to top univer- “by collaborating to sup- NewVic. sities.” port young people from all “We are delighted to be Laura Compton, Man- backgrounds we can ensure working with The Elephant aging Director of The Ele- all students reach their full Group to help and continue phant Group, welcomed the potential”. to enable more young people new partnership stating that The Elephant Group was

Pandemic reflection leads to launch of upcycling venture

LORRAINE TAPPER make a proposition. He would showcase and sell his avid Ginn is a warm, upcycled and recycled pieces open, and ebullient from their premises which Many corporate employers Dman with a very en- would serve to attract poten- gaging personality. He has tial customers to the shop. been a Newham resident for They agreed and he started fail young people over 26 years. his new business in the first Corporates and community groups must work closer He has had an eclec- week of June this year. together to ensure young people get the career op- tic career in design, fash- As David speaks with pas- portunities they need. That was the consensus among ion, retail management, and sion about his business and speakers at the Newham Voices diversity event, held visual displays in various his relationship with cus- online in collaboration with recruitment agency Lon- West End stores. tomers. don Works in July. But over lockdown he Discarded materials are Denny Cornuaud from Plaistow South Big Local said: re-evaluated his life and sourced by David who tours “I continue to be amazed by our young people and recognised that his creative the streets to see what gems what they achieve despite the challenges. We must stop passions were being over- he can find to give a new assuming and ask them what they want. To the corpo- shadowed by work and he lease of life. He also looks rates, I ask about opportunities for more avenues to lis- decided to take the bold step through skips for items that ten to young people, to provide more openings through and start his own business are destined for landfill. non-academic routes, and for us as community groups, creating upcycled furniture He said: “ It’s crazy the how can we come together to become facilitators and and wall art. amount of stuff that people David Ginn support young people on their journey?” David had been encour- throw away that is unwanted Speakers included representatives from the corpo- aged to do this for years by or old.” time job and the Emporium, rate world and community groups. Hamza Islam, 18, close friends who admired David has been commis- His long-term ambition is said: “There is a responsibility on corporate organ- his creativity which is design sioned to upcycle pieces to secure his own premises isations to ensure their information reaches young and fashion led. brought to him by owners and to run his business full students, to make clear their recruitment goals, His enterprising spirit who hope he can transform time. objectives and expectations, and extend feedback to drove him to walk into No old and worn-out furniture. You can contact David prospective recruits after interviews. Some do this 8 Forest Gate Emporium to Currently his time is through Instagram at @ well, many don’t.” speak to the owners and divided between his full- alfe_attheemporium 14 Newham Voices August 2021 Community News

Drawing lessons from Have your say on new lockdown in Forest Gate Applecart

LORRAINE TAPPER One student, Ishita, described the art classes as ‘’really helping to Arts venue hen artist Eleanor Pearce develop creative skills and build a moved to the borough long-term interest towards art!’’ pplecart Arts, Newham’s com- Wfrom Crouch End in 2013 Earlier this year Eleanor and some munity-based non-profit arts she brought with her a wealth of of her students were successful with Aand creatives organisation, is experience, having worked for the their funding bid to Foundation for on the move. The theatre and café Islington Arts Factory for 14 years as Future London located in Stratford which is currently based in E13 will the Director of Art, after honing her (https://future.london/) be moving to the imposing Pass- skills there as an art tutor. The funding provided art tuition more Edwards Library and former In Forest Gate Eleanor found “a for 10 weeks which was delivered Registry Office in Plashet Grove. community that was open, hungry” online. Eleanor adapted well to the As part of the move, Applecart for what she had to offer. The fol- online world. Arts is carrying out a public consul- lowing year she created a themed She is currently running art and tation to ensure that the new centre project about bees called Create wellbeing sessions in Forest Gate caters for local residents and pro- a Swarm and funded by Let’s Get Community Gardens now that lock- vides creative activities and artistic the Party Started in collaboration down restrictions have been lifted. ideas that the community wants. with No 8 Emporium, Coffee 7, and “The chance to draw in the beauti- When the Passmore Edwards Woodgrange Market. ful, peaceful, Forest Gate Community switch is made the building will This was an open drawing day with Garden has provided an oasis of calm reopen to the public as a Community honey themed refreshments for all during an otherwise turbulent and Art Centre with fully equipped thea- the family designed to highlight the negative period,” said Joanne one of tres and performance spaces, public survival of the bees. the participants. “Eleanor’s classes meeting/workshop spaces, artists’ Eleanor has successfully run art Eleanor Pearce have given us a lifeline back to feel- studios, an exhibition space and a classes at Forest Gate Library over ing positive.” community café. several years from 2015 to 2020 During this time Eleanor organised Eleanor can be contacted through The consultation is part of the with an 18-month interruption due three well-received exhibitions of her Instagram account @eleanor- Applecart Arts vision of creative to borough wide cuts where the art artwork from her students at Forest pearcearttutor or via email at elea- work that has the power to chal- class was a casualty. Gate Library. [email protected] lenge, change and strengthen com- munities and will reach across cultural divides. The aim will be to provide a welcoming space where people can feel confident engag- ing in artistic pursuits and sharing Parkrun is back on Wanstead Flats their stories. At the same time in the autumn THOMAS HOLDROYD can also volunteer in numerous to see how the day will proceed and the organisation will be co-curat- different roles such as marshalls are looking forward to welcoming ing Newham Unlocked Festival out or barcode scanning. back old faces as well as new.’ fter several false starts the of the neighbouring Plashet Park. Paul Lewis, director at parkrun Just before life got weird, I com- global running phenome- People who wish to take part in Wanstead Flats, said: ‘It was with pleted my 50th run and in doing so Anon, parkrun, finally re- the consultation on how to use the great excitement (and some nerv- received a converted parkrun t-shirt turned on Saturday 24 July. The Passmore Edwards space and the kind ousness), that the core team at which runners can claim for com- City of London Corporation gave of events they would like to at the Wanstead Flats parkrun prepared pleting 25, 50, 100 and 250 parkruns. the go ahead for the event to re- festival should use the Google form for the return of the event after 16 Volunteers and junior participants turn to Wanstead Flats, with some at forms.gle/AYfLPbbATKQoo1p9A months, we missed both our 9th are also able to claim similar mile- changes to make the event Covid Historical note: the Applecart and 10th year anniversary events, so stone t-shirts. If you would like to secure for runners. At least 90 per Arts new venue is named after to all be back together again will be attend or want more information, cent of England’s parkrun events John Passmore Edwards. He was a very special. We are very interested please check out needed the green light from coun- www.parkrun.org 19th Century MP, former newspaper cils and landowners to start up publisher and philanthropist who again. This was due to the large shaped the cultural development attendances and previous delays of poorer areas of London with his to the restart date and the post- generosity and over 14 years man- ponement of lockdown restric- aged to fund 70 major buildings tions easing. including hospitals and schools. Started in 2004 in Bushy Park, Teddington, it now has events every Saturday and Sunday in 20 countries around the world. A simple concept: turn up every Saturday and walk, jog, or run 5 kilometres, if you’re a junior then 2 kilometres every Sunday. Parkrun emphasises that it’s not about your running ability, it’s the taking part and getting moving that counts. www.applecartarts.com Parkrun is free but you will need [email protected] to register and print off your bar- Event director Paul Lewis with volunteers. © Thomas Holdroyd  @ApplecartArts code to get a timed result. People  @ApplecartArts  @applecartarts Sports Newham Voices August 2021 15

©Rob Bullen The ‘Blues’ were crowned Cham- SPORTS SHORTS Former St Bonaventure’s former pions of Champions. West Ham pupil Kylian Kouassi has signed his United Foundation are running first professional Football contract their summer Holiday Hammers with Sutton United FC. Neandra Etienne’s round-up for young people aged 5 -15 at their of the local sports scene for August. Beckton base from 26 July – 27 Congratulations to the players in August, 9am – 3pm. the West Ham United Foundation www.whufc.com/club-foundation/ The Jack Leslie Campaign an- 16-19 football team. foundation nounced that Andy Edwards has Programme been selected as the sculptor for the new Jack Leslie statue. Andy will be working in partnership with Monu- mental Icons. Jack was a professional footballer Lift off for young athletes from Canning Town. In 1925 he was picked to play for England but his Dalton Grant Academy, led by Team GB Team Captain Dalton Grant, name was dropped from the team a Commonwealth and European High Jump Champion, partnered with sheet after the selectors discovered London Stadium Learning to organise a free, jump, sprint and train his Jamaican Black heritage. John with champion’s competition in Newham parks for young participants Francis (Jack) Leslie Aug 17, 1901 – aged 12-20. Nov 25, 1988) jackleslie.co.uk The trail events were held in Central Park and Stratford Park. The fi- nal, which took place in July at the Marathon Community Track Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, was attended by the athlete Darren Braithwaite. Jordan Williams, Julian Washburn Dalton’s sponsors Blue Squared donated the 1st prize of £75 lifestyle and Isaiah Reese have joined the Athletic Newham FC is compet- voucher and 3rd Prize of £50 lifestyle voucher. The 2nd prize of £55 JD London Lions Basketball Club team ing in the Emirates FA domestic Sports voucher was donated by Argon Utility Solutions and the 4th place for the upcoming 2021-22 season. cup competition. Extra preliminary prize was a free meal from Rhythm Kitchen and 20 per cent discount The London Lions are based in round games start on Saturday 7 for 4 guests. Stratford. They compete in the Brit- August, followed by the preliminary Dalton said: “I was very happy with the turnout especially considering ish Basketball League. Their Sum- round which will be played on Sat- the times we are in now. I wanted to give young people the opportunity to mer Camp starts in August. Poten- urday 21 August. learn a new skill and express themselves.” tial ballers aged 8-16 will be invited  Athletic Newham Fc Dalton plans to organise more sporting events in Newham and the to train and play on the same courts surrounding boroughs. “I was a Board Director of the London 2012 bid as the London Lions players. www. team,” he said, “and I will be doing an event through the Dalton Grant thelondonlions.com Upton Park Ladies have started a Academy for the 10 year anniversary of the 2012 games. My passion is new Development Squad for any giving back through my experience as a three times Olympian.” beginners who lack experience in a Clapton CFC women’s and men’s www.daltongrantacademy.com first team environment or who have first football teams will be playing not played in a competitive football two pre-season games in Manches- match before. ter against FC United Women and You are welcome to join their free FC United Manchester on 7 August. open training sessions on Wednes- www.claptoncfc.co.uk days 6.45pm Powerleage, Beckton, Pitch 10, for ages 16+. The Iron La- CCFC Supporters Group Clapton dies amateur football team will be Punks have produced a range of playing their pre-season home and ethically produced vegan friendly away friendly games in August. t-shirts. The money raised from the www.uptonparkladiesfc.co.uk sale of the t-shirts will go towards helping the Old Spotted Dog Ground Trust open the clubhouse. Non-binary football club Upton Sparks WFC have announced their  @claptonpunks fixture list for the new season. They play their home league games at Spectators are welcome to watch Whitechapel sports centre and are Clapton CFC Cricket team play their part of the Super 5 Sports League. games for free on 18 August and  @uptonsparkswfc 25 August, 6pm – 8pm in Victoria Park. The team is part of the Victo- ria Park league. www.vpccl.com Forest Crusaders WFC is an UEFA coached 11-a-side team based in Newham who play in the (GLWFL) Greater London Women’s Football ©Anna Mercado League. They are recruiting play- ers aged 18+ for the 2021/22 sea- son. If you are interested in joining the Crusader team you can attend their open training sessions every Wednesday at West Ham Memorial Park 7:00pm – 8.30pm.  @crusaderswfc  @forestcrusaderswfc

Congratulations to University of East London scholar Jona Efoloko who is taking part in the Tokyo Highlights of the Lift off event organised by Dalton Grant and London Stadium Learning. Olympics Great Britain 4x100 metres Top image courtesy London Stadium Learning. Bottom images © Neandra Etienne relay team. 16 Newham Voices August 2021 Sports Didn’t our lads do well!

An England team to be proud of and saving lives in a heartbeat. Mickey Ambrose on the legacy of the Euros.

t was one of legendary enter- something I have not seen for, yes, tainer and television personality 55 years. ISir Bruce Forsyth’s most famous How many times have we settled catchphrases on the Generation in front of the television in antici- Game. Didn’t They Do well? pation of major tournaments only Come on, you must remember set- to be disappointed and to then have tling down in front of the box in the the indignity of taking our England ‘70s and early ‘80s on a Saturday flags down halfway through a tour- Night with a packet of cheese ‘n nament? But not this time. done Gareth! And his team. We beat Following the tragic events involv- Our performances were superb, onion, a beer - or in my case a glass Germany, yes Germany our old rivals. ing Christian Ericksen, I opened of red (purely for medicinal pur- strategically well thought out. Well I texted Harry Redknapp before the up my black book to get support poses, of course) - to watch this fan- game and he said it is the worst for the sporting authorities to fund tastic entertainer I had the pleasure German side he has come across for Cardiology Units and signed up my to meet - my late mother loved him. 25 years, “We should take them” he pals Gary Lineker, John Barnes, Harry Just as she would have loved watch- told me and how right he was. Redknapp (Poplar Boy) and Vinny ing England in the Euros’. And didn’t Obviously, I have to talk about the Samways to support www.youtube. they do well. penalties as many people frequently com/watch?v=LySthjRbZj4 I couldn’t believe my eyes seeing stop me in the old Stratford Shopping The Heartbeat Campaign was the way we played in the Euros 21, Centre and ask, how difficult is it to well 2020 actually due to Covid - was take a penalty from 12 yards? launched on ITV’s flagship break- I actually watching an England team My answer is to imagine hav- fast show Good Morning Britain that was keeping the ball, passing, ing many driving lessons and then (see above) where we are asking that bringing it out of defence calmly and every football club, and that includes Mickey Ambrose on the day of your test you know not treating it like a hot potato? It’s anything could happen - you know the 42,000 clubs affiliated to the you’re nervous. It is good to be nerv- FA, should have a defibrillator and ous and professional footballers are someone medically trained to use it. used to playing in front of big crowds Finally, we should all be very proud they love it or they wouldn’t do it. of our England team. Remember No excuses, we should have bur- Italy didn’t even qualify for the ied those penalties - head down, last World Cup and we reached the pick your spot in your mind and hit semi-finals. This time we made the the ball through your laces, none of final - we have come a long way and these dummies, shimmies, or stop- we’ll make it yet! Q start. But having said that it shows you how confident some of our young Mickey Ambrose is Ex Charlton players were – we’ll be back!!! Athletic and Chelsea FC

Advertisment Get vaccinated and a chance to win a Hammers Shirt The NHS and West Ham United Football Club have joined forces to offer someone in north east London the chance to win a new West Ham shirt signed by the team. To be in with a chance of winning, people need to have a Covid-19 vaccine by the end of July, and post a picture, video or message to Twitter saying they have had their jab. Just include hashtags #Ihadmyjab and #WestHamComp in the Tweet. The NHS will select the winner at random from the entrants after 31 July 2021. To book your vaccine visit nhs. uk/coronavirus or find a centre near you where you can walk in without an appointment.