HP Jul-Aug 2014 - London Borough of Hillingdon
Transcription
HP Jul-Aug 2014 - London Borough of Hillingdon
July/August 2014 Free summer events for all the family Commemorating the World War One centenary Making it easier for you to recycle advertisements hillingdon contents July/August 2014 them… ember War 1914-18 em during the First Wougrldh of Hillingdon ill r on Boro eir lives We W o lost th ated in the Lond those wh or I A record of and are commem have always said that we put our 18 Cover feature residents first in Find out more about our summer everything we do events and activities. and in this edition of Hillingdon People you will 9 Older people’s page find many examples of just that. Uxbridge’s newly refurbished library Since the introduction of hosts the Older People’s Assembly. HillingdonFirst, our innovative privilege card for residents, over 10 million transactions have been 11 New school recorded. If you have just moved Abbotsfield School will be into Hillingdon or haven’t signed redeveloped as part of the council’s up yet, you can find details of the school building programme. special benefits on page 27. There is also a focus on our 12 World War One centenary improved recycling services. Last year Commemorative events to be held in we increased the frequency of our free Hillingdon’s libraries. garden waste collections to weekly and over 20,000 households have signed up for our food waste collection 15 Have you considered fostering? service. Our new clothing and textile Hillingdon People catches up with a collection is also proving popular, couple who have fostered more than with the value of the items collected 100 children. being donated to local charities. As part of our civic pride initiative, we are commemorating the 21 Making recycling easier centenary of the outbreak of the Weekly garden waste and textile World War One by publishing a unique collections one year on. book recording the names and many profiles of the Hillingdon residents who lost their lives serving overseas. 27 HillingdonFirst Card I hope that We Will Remember A look at the special benefits Them helps readers understand the of the scheme. sacrifices they made. We have also organised a range of commemorative ents mmer evRegulars su events for you in our libraries. ily m fa f o st Staying with events, you will find A ho information on a host of activities for 4 News all ages over the next few months. 29 Hillingdon volunteers These include the hugely popular family fishing days being held in July 31 What’s on? and August at Little Britain Lake, the 35 Hillingdon contact numbers medieval festival at historic Manor Farm in Ruislip and our FIESTA programme, which again is packed full of diverse activities for young Deadline for advertising in the September/ people over the summer months. I C o v e r p h o t o: B i g F e s t 2 013 October 2014 edition is 15 August. hope you get an opportunity to enjoy some of the events taking place and Editorial and advertising enquiries Published by London Borough of Hillingdon are able to spend time in our top © 2014 quality parks across the borough. Design Phil Burton 01895 250670 Emma Gilbertson 01895 250828 Finally, in June along with the HS2 Printed by Warners Midlands PLC [email protected] Action Alliance we launched a new legal Hillingdon People challenge against the government’s 3E/07 Civic Centre flawed high speed rail project which High Street will severely damage our environment. Uxbridge Despite the government telling us UB8 1UW. resistance is futile we will continue After reading, please Products and services advertised in the fight, however long it takes. this magazine are not necessarily © CROWN COPYRIGHT 2009. Copyright in the content, design and typographical arrangement rests with the Crown. Published by London Borough of Hillingdon Landlords Do you have a good quality property for rent in the borough of Hillingdon? To learn more about our landlord rental schemes: please visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/privatelandlords or contact the Landlord Engagement team: [email protected] 01895 558619 ry uk/histo ngdon.gov. www.hilli feature hillingdon cover feature hillingdon cover returns BigFest for festival returns mer of free gs you a sum BigFest and Hillingdon brin events from open-air familyFamily Fishing Fun Days. Medfest to the ng for everyone to keep holidays. There’s somethi ed during the you entertain Fun Day try fishing Family Fishing Anyone keen to two Take a step through time loved Hillingdon’s muchwill l Medieval Festiva return to the historic Ruislip Manor Farm site, August. on Sunday 17 free The well loved, a packed event will offer historical programme of including re-enactments, , a horseback jousting knights and medieval jester medieval in combat. The the orchard in ment encamp of the offers members nity to public the opportu al style experience a mediev with a wise village first hand, ’s tent and surgeon a , woman . medieval style cooking include a hog Other highlights medieval of roast and displays . The historic music and dancing a range of offer will Barn Great s courtesy arts and crafts activitiel’s Adult Counci of Hillingdon additional food, Education, with and artisan a farmer’s market the site’s stalls provided by Market. regular Duck Pond ation visit For more inform /medfest. www.hillingdon.gov.uk to one of can come along fun days on free family fishing Sunday 3 and Sunday 20 July 9.30am and n August, betwee Britain Lake, 3.30pm at Little Cowley. Packet Boat Lane, ction to There will be introdu river dipping, fishing sessions, face painting a bouncy castle, You will also and a craft tent. experts about to talk be able to h. fishing in the boroug fishing is on the Registration for their popularity, day and, due to es are offered places for all activiti served basis. first on a first come, d. will be provide All equipment another This is set to be day out so enjoyable family there early. get make sure you July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine This street all the curiosities 2014, bringing travelling a and delights of the magic show, alongside ance. of street perform will be held This free event Street on Uxbridge High September 28 on Sunday and 4pm. between 12 noon visit the Festival goers can a unique y, Travelling Treasur nce that storytelling experie transformed takes place in a can explore caravan. Here you of Mr E, who World the Wonderful strange new has travelled to special caravan lands in his very weird and collected some s. You and wonderful artefact in the show a can even watch theatre which is world’s smallest ike sidecar. mounted on a motorb alike Children and adults s, juggler will marvel at the and stilt ers swallow sword entertain as walkers who will the crowds they weave through Literature while the pop up last year Salon - a big success vultures and will entertain cultureattractions bookworms. Otherrist, fairground include a caricatu market. games and an Italian the flower stall For music lovers, will once again outside the station Stall Stage, become the Flower an eclectic with entertaining you acts performing mix of live music afternoon. throughout the Cllr Douglas Mills, er for Cabinet Memb erce and Community, Comm , said: “BigFest Regeneration Hillingdon’s of is a celebration scene and rich arts and leisure vibrantly to life. brings Uxbridge performances “The range of the family will entertain all residents and I hope as many go along to as possible will and enjoy the High Street inment that the magical entertahas to offer.” this unique festival ation view inform more For /bigfest. www.hillingdon.gov.uk contacts about events To find out more visit: www. this summer, isure hillingdon.gov.uk/le 18 recycle this magazine www.hillingdon.gov.uk/privatelandlords 2 July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine 19 July/August 2014 Cllr Ray Puddifoot Leader of the Council hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 endorsed by the council. For a copy in large print or as an audio version, call 01895 250828 3 hillingdon news 4 The council is seeking 14-18 year-old volunteers to help run the Summer Reading Challenge during July and August across all of the borough’s libraries. You might be based at a specific library or asked to promote the challenge at various venues across the borough including schools, fetes, fun days and shopping centres. You would need to commit to a minimum of four hours per week. Last year over 7,000 primary school children in Hillingdon joined the challenge and our libraries are running many activities and events to support it during the holiday period. For further details on volunteering and the challenge visit www.hillingdon.gov. uk/summerreading. Independents’ Day Northwood Hills will hold its second annual Independents’ Day on Saturday 13 September between 11am and 4.30pm in Joel Street. For one day, local independent retailers are providing special offers, discounts and promoting goods outside their shops. There will also be street entertainment and a range of stalls. The day will be run by the independent businesses in conjunction with Northwood Hills Residents’ Association. The event will also showcase the area’s refurbished shopping centre. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration, said: “Independents’ Day is a great opportunity to show the value of independent shops to our community and encourage footfall to local shops.” by Hillingdon Council. Michael Aslam of Reading pleaded guilty to two offences of breaching planning enforcement notices. The matter was referred to Isleworth Crown Court for sentencing and a confiscation hearing under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Aslam had been ordered to demolish an outbuilding at the rear of a property he owns in Sipson Road, Sipson, which had been used as a bed in shed. He also illegally used the house and neighbouring property as a hotel and had been ordered to stop but failed to comply. He was fined £7,500 for each offence. Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the judge ordered that Aslam must pay back £170,000 in full within six months, or serve 30 months imprisonment in default. This money will be divided between the council, HM Treasury and the Courts and Tribunals Service. Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “It is totally unacceptable for rogue landlords to line their pockets with illgotten gains and allow families to live in poor conditions. I hope this sends out a clear message that Hillingdon Council will take action against those who do not comply with planning laws.” July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Hillingdon war veterans made a final trip to France to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy thanks to council funding. Members of the West Middlesex Normandy Veterans Association (NVA) Branch no.77 travelled to Normandy to revisit the beaches where some of them once fought. Fourteen members also attended an international ceremony on 6 June, D-Day, at Sword Beach, Normandy. Former Councillor, Shirley Harper-O’Neill laid a wreath for the council during the visit on behalf of veteran Walter Hart. Council Leader, Ray Puddifoot, offered to help fund the trip, as without financial aid the group would have been unable to go. Bill Crier, Vice chairman of the West Middlesex NVA, said: “It was such a nice trip. The support we have had Council Cabinet from the council over the years has been wonderful. The funding meant a lot to us. We couldn’t have gone without their help.” There will be a civic lunch for the veterans hosted by the Mayor and Leader of the Council on 16 July. Hillingdon supports carers work Over 30 organisations were on hand to offer help and advice at a special Carers’ Fair organised by the council and Hillingdon Carers. People looking after the elderly, sick and disabled visited the stalls at the Pavilions Shopping Centre in Uxbridge to learn about the support available to them and those they care for. Music was provided by Singability and Phyllis Nash, President of the Ruislip Lions, Hugh Randall and Phil Stowell with their best dressed stall hillingdon people magazine Following the elections, there will be no change to the Hillingdon Council Cabinet, which is: •Cllr Ray Puddifoot MBE (Chairman) Leader of the Council •Cllr David Simmonds (Vice-Chairman) Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services •Cllr Jonathan Bianco Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services P h o t o s u p p l i e d b y Wa lt e r H a r t You can now register to vote by providing your name, address, date of birth and national insurance number online. This is part of the move to Individual Electoral Registration (IER) where everyone now has to take individual responsibility for ensuring they are on the electoral register. This replaces the old system where one person in a household would submit a registration for everyone living there. Once a person is registered, this is continuous until they move to a different address. Most people registered before June 2014 should be automatically transferred to the new register and will not need to do anything else. If this is the case, you will receive a letter from us by the end of July confirming that you are registered. Some people, however, will need to provide additional information in order to stay on the register and those will receive a letter telling them that they need to re-register. If you are in any way unsure, contact the local Electoral Registration Office on 01895 250251 or you can register online at www.gov. uk/register-to-vote. When you apply, your details will be checked against government records to make sure that registrations are genuine. Veterans have commemorated D-Day inbrief P h o t o s u p p l i e d b y Wa lt e r H a r t Young volunteers needed Rogue landlord hit with Registering hefty fine to vote has A rogue landlord has been ordered to pay just got more than £200,000 easier following an investigation July/August 2014 the best dressed stall winners, Ruislip Lions Club, were awarded a gift voucher by the Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Catherine Dann. Cllr Philip Corthorne, Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Housing, said: “Carers perform a valuable role in Hillingdon and it’s important they are made aware of the help and support available to them.” More information and support for carers is available at www. hillingdon.gov.uk/carers. •Cllr Keith Burrows Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling •Cllr Philip Corthorne Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Housing •Cllr Douglas Mills Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration •Cllr Scott Seaman-Digby Cabinet Member for Central Services. Benefit fraud shift From 1 July 2014, benefit fraud will be investigated centrally by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). You should now report incidents to the DWP on 0800 854440 or visit www.gov.uk/ report-benefit-fraud. All other fraud, such as council tax, blue badge and housing tenancy should be reported to the council’s corporate fraud team on its normal number 0800 3898313 For details on reporting fraud see www.hillingdon. gov.uk/reportfraud. 5 hillingdon news hillingdon news Council tax reduction scheme consultation During August and September details of the proposed changes to the council tax reduction scheme will be available online for you to have your say. On 1 April 2013, council tax benefit was replaced by a local council tax reduction scheme. The scheme was put in place for an initial two year period with its impact assessed during this time. The council tax reduction scheme means that most people of working age have to contribute towards their council tax. Pensioners were transferred to the local scheme, but their support was protected at the same level as the benefit they received previously. Following a full review, a new scheme is being proposed with effect from 1 April 2015 and we want to make sure that all residents have a chance to have their say. You can provide feedback by completing a short online survey at www. hillingdon.gov.uk/counciltax. You can also request information and a paper survey by calling 01895 277038. Waste Authority closes its site in South Ruislip The West London Waste Authority (WLWA) has closed its civic amenity site in South Ruislip despite Hillingdon Council offering to take over the full financial responsibility and running of the site. The regrettable move by the WLWA to shut the facility in Victoria Road on 31 May comes after the council offered to fund the operation until the end of June to give the waste authority time to reconsider its initial decision to close the site. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council, said: “We wanted this facility to remain open and have put in a concerted effort to make that happen. I have for many years questioned the financial and operating competency of the WLWA. This closure is indicative of the ability of an organisation which really is an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy in local government.” Hillingdon residents can use the Harefield Civic Amenity Site in New Years Green Lane free of charge on production of their HillingdonFirst card or proof of address such as a utility bill. Harefield Civic Amenity Site can be used by Hillingdon residents 6 Fraudster ordered to repay money New legal action over HS2 Keeping dogs and cats cosy Dogs and cats that are being cared for by local animal charities will sleep soundly thanks to a special delivery from the council’s waste and recycling team. At the end of the academic year, the council collects unwanted student duvets from Brunel University and takes them to the Dogs Trust in Harefield and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where they are used for bedding. If they were not donated to charity, the duvets would end up in landfill. Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transport and Recycling, said: “The council is thinking creatively to reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfill, helping Brunel University and deserving local charities at the same time. “This year, our waste and recycling team collected over 800 duvets – 300 for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Old Windsor site, and the rest for the Dogs Trust in Harefield. The duvet donation will help to cut the charities’ overheads as well as giving vulnerable pets in their care a cosy place to sleep.” Richard Moore, from the Dogs Trust, added: “We all enjoy the comfort of a comfy bed and the dogs in our care are no different. Thanks to the kind donation all of the 90 dogs currently calling Dogs Trust Harefield home will sleep all the better.” For more information about recycling in the borough, visit www. hillingdon.gov.uk/recycling. Review of polling arrangements starts Ahead of next year's General Election, we would like to hear your views on our current polling arrangements. The council has started a review of all its polling stations and districts which will run until the end of September 2014 and will look at, amongst other things, accessibility and facilities. Whether you were happy, or not, with where you voted at the last election, we would like to hear your views. Details of the existing arrangements and polling stations are at www. hillingdon.gov.uk/elections. You can take part in the consultation on www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ haveyoursay. Alternatively, email electoralservices@ hillingdon.gov.uk or write to Electoral Services, London Borough of Hillingdon, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Hillingdon Council and HS2Action Alliance have launched a new legal challenge against the government’s high speed rail project. The High Court heard a fresh judicial review at a one day hearing on June 10. Judgement was reserved for a later date. They are challenging the decision by the Secretary of State for Transport to issue safeguarding directions without first undertaking a Strategic Environmental Assessment. If the High Court hearing on safeguarding is successful, the current ban on developing land identified for the route of Phase 1 of HS2 would be lifted and could not be reinstated until the Government has completed a valid environmental assessment. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council, said: “Despite the Government telling us that resistance is futile, we will continue our fight against this flawed plan, however long it takes. This is not a done deal and we will continue to challenge the Government. “We also remain committed to assisting residents’ groups and local businesses and will continue to help wherever possible with the resources and support people need.” Health and social services discussed The Hillingdon Assembly for People with Disabilities is an opportunity for people with disabilities to hear and have their say about issues and services that may affect them. At the last assembly in June attendees took part in group discussions about health and social care services. Representatives from Hillingdon Hospital, Healthwatch Hillingdon, Pillbox Pharmacies and the council’s Disability Service spent time with each group, discussing issues and gathering feedback. Health and social care is a key issue for people with disabilities in Hillingdon and attendees hillingdon people magazine made the most of the opportunity to feed back about their experiences in Hillingdon of hospitals, GPs, pharmacies and the Disability Service. For more information about the Assembly for People with Disabilities visit www.hillingdon. gov.uk/disabilities. July/August 2014 An investigation by our corporate fraud investigations team has resulted in the council obtaining a Confiscation Order in the sum of £75,536.77. The Proceeds of Crime Act was used to recover the money which was fraudulently gained and costs of £14,463.23 at a confiscation hearing at the Old Bailey. Fifty per cent of the money will go to the Treasury, 37.5 per cent will be received by the council and 12.5 per cent will go to the HM Courts and Tribunal Service. This case follows a hearing in March last year where a former project manager for Hillingdon Grid for Learning, Azam Magre, who provided IT equipment and broadband for schools from 2001-2010 was found guilty of fraud and sent to prison for two years. Magre has six months to pay the £75,536.77. If he fails to do so, he will be given a 21 month prison sentence. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council, said: “This is a good result for the council. Anyone who commits fraud on or within Hillingdon Council will be pursued through the courts and we will, where possible, pursue their personal assets for recovery of any loss to the council.” If you have any suspicions about anyone committing fraud, you can call the hotline on 08003898313 or email [email protected]. All information will be dealt with confidentially. inbrief Calling all volunteers Mini-museum the Pram Shed at Manor Farm, Ruislip, is looking for volunteers so it can stay open for longer each day. The Pram Shed exhibits historical farming tools. If you have free time and are interested in becoming a volunteer at the farm, email artsvenues@hillingdon. gov.uk or register on the volunteers section of www. compasstheatre.co.uk. Care for a tree? Trees help to make Hillingdon one of the greenest boroughs in London and you can now get involved in helping to look after them. To register your interest, visit www.hillingdon. gov.uk/parkevents and click on ‘Care for a tree’, where there is a short form to fill in. Cycle lane work Carriage widening to provide a safe cycle lane as part of the Hillingdon cycle safety scheme in Holloway Lane and Harmondsworth Road is taking place. Work started on Monday 16 June and is expected to continue for eight weeks. There are temporary traffic lights on weekdays between 9am and 3.30pm. Is your biz eligible for rate relief? The council will grant business rates relief of up to £1,000 to all occupied retail properties with a rateable value of £50,000 or less that meet qualifying criteria. Properties should mainly be used as shops, restaurants, cafes or drinking establishments. Think you might be entitled? Complete the retail relief application form which is online on www. hillingdon.gov.uk/retailrelief. 7 hillingdon news hillingdon older people Trip down memory lane for Oak Farm School Oak Farm School, Hillingdon, has reached a special 80th anniversary this year. The infant and junior schools, together with the Friends of Oak Farm Parent Teacher Association (PTA), has been celebrating this special birthday with a range of reminiscent activities. A history club assembly was held for all current pupils which featured past pupils from the 1930s and 40s.The former students spoke to the infant children sharing their memories of the Second World War. Two oak tree saplings, donated by a local neighbour, and commemorative plaques were unveiled by former Mayor Cllr Allan Kauffman and Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot. Two local vintage car owners also brought in a 1922 Talbot and 1940s Class 9 with the vintage cars black taxis for the children to learn about history, sit in and honk their horns. The schools also held a celebration party day on 23 May. Staff, pupils and the PTA dressed up in 1930s clothes with classes structured in a 1930s style. Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “This is a milestone for Oak Farm. The schools have played an important part in the community since 1934 and this is a very special anniversary. “This year’s events will have provided the children with a range of special memories and most importantly, they will have gained a rich historical understanding which is an essential part of the curriculum.” Nabil from the juniors and Cllr Ray Puddifoot helping former Mayor Cllr Kauffman to cut the ribbon You can now report planning breaches online The council has introduced a new online facility to report breaches of planning and building regulations. You can report unauthorised: •building works •changes of use •breaches of planning conditions •works carried out to a listed building •demolition within a conservation area •adverts Unauthorised building works are extensions, outbuildings, roof shape changes, porches, drives, skylights, boundary fences, raised platforms, solar panels that exceed size restrictions or do not comply with the associated conditions allowed under permitted development rights. Unauthorised development or alterations to a business premises is also included. 8 Changes to property or land without planning permission can be the residential use of an outbuilding, the subdivision of a property, houses in multiple occupation, a change of use of commercial or retail site. Buildings not in accordance with approved plans and failure to submit a detailed application or to meet planning conditions are also possible breaches. For the council to be able to properly investigate complaints, you must have all of the correct information and facts relating to the breach before making your report. For further details on the incidents that can be investigated and to report a breach go to www.hillingdon. gov.uk/planningenforcement. Demolition of a structure which was unauthorised Unuthorised change of use of green belt land July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Assembly held in brand new library U xbridge’s newly refurbished library was the venue for the Older People’s Assembly in June. The popular event is usually held in the Middlesex Suite in the Civic Centre but as a celebration of the re-opening of Uxbridge Library following a multi-million facelift by the council, it was decided that it would be fitting to host the assembly there. Attendees took part in a variety of activities including free starter IT sessions and tours of the stateof-the-art facilities at the library, which includes an expanded Local Studies and Archives service, more computers with free wi-fi access and an attractive new layout The re-opening of Uxbridge Library in April completed the council’s £10m libraries investment programme. All 17 libraries in the borough have now seen substantial improvements as part of the only library rebuilding and refurbishment programme in the country. A history and World War One commemorative remembrance session was also held in the revamped archives section. The groups were shown items from the museum collection and the upcoming World War One exhibition. Vera Cook, 70, of Hillingdon, said: “It’s a lovely building and so light. It’s the first time I’ve been here. I’m really impressed. It’s nice that the assembly has been held here today.” There were talks from the Northwood Live at Home Scheme which supports older people in retaining their independence. Visiting speakers are often invited to the meetings to explain what services they offer for older people, for example, Age UK and Healthwatch. hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 Connie Evans, 92, of North Hillingdon, said: “It’s different holding the assembly in the library. I think personally that the assembly brings people together from all over the borough.” The usual question and answer session will return at the next assembly on 23 September at the Civic Centre giving residents an opportunity to have their say on Hillingdon services for older people. You can pre-submit a question if you are unable to attend. If you would like to suggest a topic to be discussed, please email customerengagement@hillingdon. gov.uk or call 01895 277446. If you don’t want to ask your question in front of other attendees you can raise questions to be asked, either on the day, or by pre-submitting them. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council and Older People’s Champion, said: “The transformation of Uxbridge Library is nothing short of spectacular and hosting the Older People’s Assembly was a perfect opportunity for residents to take a tour of and see for themselves the excellent new facilities. “The assembly is your chance to learn more about the services provided by the council and our partners and for us to listen to your comments. Your views really do matter and can lead to change so I would encourage you to come to the assembly if you haven’t been before.” contacts For more information on older people’s services, visit: www. hillingdon.gov.uk/opassembly 9 hillingdon care hillingdon schools Children’s Centres delivering key services for families A Parents are able to enjoy a wealth of family-oriented services at 18 children’s centres across the borough. Are you aware of everything that they offer? Hillingdon People asks managers to share information on their programmes with you. A ll centres offer daily a variety of free children’s and family services including stay and play sessions, health advice and parenting support. They work in partnership with each other to ensure local needs are met and they tailor services where needed. Skilled staff run the centres alongside employees from different disciplines, such as health visitors and midwives. Zoe Chinery, Centre Manager of Oak Farm, says health services are the most popular at her centre and that working closely with health visitors and midwives is important. “We have a baby wellbeing clinic every Thursday morning where parents can get advice from a health visitor and have their babies weighed. Our postnatal and antenatal sessions are also very popular.” On a lesser known service, she adds: “We have an Early Bird group, this is for parents with autistic children and it is run by Portage (homevisiting edulational service) and the Senior Early Years Practitioner.” Lorraine Penson, who has overall responsibility for council managed children’s centres, says: “Our main priority is to make sure that we are meeting the needs of the community. We always need parents to be active and let us know if we are meeting their needs.” She highlights the importance of transition programmes. “We run 10 these in most of the centres. They prepare children for nursery or school. It is a two week intensive programme that helps children to get used to separation. It also makes parents aware of the expectations of them and their children before they go to school.” Six of the 18 children’s centres are run directly by the council, one by Uxbridge College, another by the local charity Cornerstone and 10 by local schools. Paul Mathers, Head of Yiewsley Cornerstone Children’s Centre, explains how his centre is different to those in the borough and how it offers more services. He said: “Our centre is an all age service and offers older people’s and community services, as well support for children and families. “Our stay and play sessions are the most popular activity. This is probably because we have use of the church hall.” He says that these are held four times a week with between 20 and 25 children for each session. Hillingdon investing in secondary schools The range of services on offer at children’s centres: • Health services including baby clinics, speech and language support for young children, dental health and stop smoking services • Advice on benefits rights, employment and housing • Stay and play sessions • Support to access adult learning and training opportunities • Advice on breastfeeding and child nutrition • Crèche facilities which free up parents for adultbased activities contacts For a list of centres and their services visit: www.hillingdon. gov.uk/childrenscentres July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine bbotsfield School will be rebuilt with excellent modern facilities as part of the council’s programme to ensure every child in the borough has a quality school place. The announcement follows recent news of a £28m facelift for Northwood School by the council to be completed by September 2016, increasing capacity to 900 pupils in an area where demand for school places is on the rise. Abbotsfield School for boys in Hillingdon was originally built in 1953 and will also benefit from significant investment from the council and the government’s Priority Schools Building Programme fund. Swakeleys, which is a girls’ school in Hillingdon, will also be redeveloped as part of the programme. All three schemes will complement and add to the council’s ambitious £150m primary school building programme – already the largest of its kind in London. The council is adding classrooms, rebuilding facilities and boosting school premises across the borough as part of its ambitious building programme. Two new primary schools at St Andrew’s Park and Lake Farm are on track to open in September this year. The council is also planning a new primary-age school in the West Drayton area with capacity for three forms of entry to open in September 2015. Cllr David Simmonds, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “The announcement of two further brand new schools shows once again that we are putting families first by investing in the very best educational facilities hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 Abbotsfield School, Hillingdon, as it is now for our children where they are most needed in the borough.” Headteacher of Abbotsfield, Mr Mark Bland, said: “We are very excited to be working in partnership with Hillingdon Council to redevelop the site. We want to make it into a flagship school for the 20th century. “It’s fantastic news and we can’t wait to move our boys in.” contacts For more information on the school improvements programme, visit: www. hillingdon.gov.uk/sip 11 hillingdon heroes hillingdon heroes Events in Hillingdon to commemorate World War One Centenary T his year marks the centenary of the start of World War One. Between July and December, Hillingdon libraries will be running a series of events in the borough to commemorate those who fought and lost their lives during the Great War. These events are intended to help local people learn about the contribution their area, or their family, made to World War One. The main event will be the Home Fires and Foreign Fields exhibition in Uxbridge Library, which will be launched on 4 August and run until the end of December. The exhibits will show the effects of the war on the people at home and the soldiers abroad. Many of the items on display have been donated by local people which underlines how the war is still remembered by family members. There will also be a number of talks by experts, including historians and authors, on various subjects ranging from the contribution of Sikhs in the war to the history of local Victoria Cross winners, Robert Ryder and Cecil Kinross, and the beliefs of conscientious objectors. Many of the libraries will be holding sessions on how to trace your own World War One ancestors using online resources. There will also be meetings where you can share your memories and memorabilia of the war and your family’s involvement in it. Reading groups will be looking at books dealing with aspects of the war and there will be a number of poetry reading and drama sessions. There are a number of children’s activities, particularly during holidays and half term which includes making a World War One fighter plane Sign up to receive council’s commemorative book The council has put together a book to commemorate the young men of Hillingdon who lost their lives during the war. This has been achieved by taking names from memorials in the borough, adding details from official records, works from local history, a gazetteer of the soldiers, their ranks, medals, regiments and date and place of death. The book, We Will Remember Them, will be given to the borough’s schools and libraries and also to the families of those soldiers whose names appear on the memorials. If you are a relative of one of these soldiers you can register to 12 from paper. Children will also enjoy story times and poppy collage craft sessions. West Drayton Library is hosting a free interactive drama workshop entitled Quest for the First World War for children aged 7 to 11. There will also be community fêtes, afternoon tea gatherings and coffee mornings. The council’s library service was awarded a grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund to run the events. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council, said: “Remembering those who fought and lost their lives in World War One is extremely important. “There are a range of events happening in the borough over the next few months and I would encourage people to go and find out more about our nation’s history and the sacrifice made by so many young people of that generation.” Event Northwood community arts exhibition. St. John’s VAD Hospital. The British Postal Museum and Archive display of the Last Post exhibition. World War One sing-a-long and coffee morning. ‘Coffee and Conversation’. A guest speaker from SSAFA will be talking about how the charity provides lifelong support for our forces and their families. Booking essentail. ‘The Post Office in the Great War’. Duncan Campbell-Smith, author and historian. Family memories session. receive up to a maximum of two copies per family free of charge - additional copies can be requested at a cost of £8 each which includes postage and packing (UK Mainland only). Online forms can be found at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/history or if you would prefer to receive and fill out a hard copy of the form, please contact Charmian Baker, on 01895 558107 or email [email protected]. Lo ry n.gov.uk/histo www.hillingdo Northwood 21 June – 4 July Charville 1July – 31July Uxbridge 4 July 10am to 12pm Ickenham 17 July 10am to 11.30am Charville South Ruislip Creative writing or art competition Uxbridge for adults and children. Displays on Hayes and Harlington Harlington during World War One. War poetry and the changing role of women. ‘Harefield’s VCs, Ryder and Kinross’ Harefield by Harefield History Society. Harefield Harefield Village History Day. Bring in items to do with World War One. Refreshments. ‘Home Fires and Foreign Fields’ Uxbridge exhibition’. Sgt. Bristow, RAF Northolt. Manor Northolt and World War One. Farm Community fête. Activities for families Botwell from the period including: train to be Green a Tommy with Greenwich leisure, maypole dancing, games and songs. Great War animal crafts. Ruislip Children's craft session. Manor Great War trench building. Ruislip Children's craft session. Manor Children’s poetry event. Using poetry Hayes End from that era as a basis for the event. World War One sing-a-long tea party. Harlington er thWaer 19m14… b m e m -18 e r l l First World n We Wosie wh es during the h of Hillingdo o lost their liv ndon Boroug e A record of th emorated in th and are comm Library/venue When 21 July 11am to 12pm 28 July 3pm to 4pm August – December August – December 2 August 11am to 12pm 2 August 9am to 5pm 4 August – 31 December 5 August 2pm to 4pm 6 August 1pm to 5pm 6 August 3pm to 5pm 7 August 2pm to 4pm 11 August 2pm to 3pm 8 August 2pm to 4pm Children's craft event. Hayes End 16 August Make a toy from that era. 11pm to 12pm Find your World War One ancestors Yeading 16 August online. Booking essential. 10am to 12pm ‘The Road to War’. An overview of Charville 18 August 11am to 12pm some of the major social, political and economic changes before 1914. Louise Henshaw, historian. Event Harefield World War One Harefield Poetry Group. World War One poets. Eastcote Talk by Clive Room, Royal British Legion. Booking essential. Coffee Morning. Share your stories Hayes End of relatives from World War One and find your World War One ancestors online. Booking essential. ‘What Would Soldiers Want?’. Uxbridge Children’s craft session. Uxbridge ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’. An evening of World War One entertainment from Curtain Up! The Uxbridge Library Playreading Group. ‘My Father’s War’ by Mr. Stanley, Yeading a Yeading resident. Share your memories of your World Uxbridge War I ancestors. We invite those who have lent material for ‘Home Fires and Foreign Fields’ and anyone else who has memorabilia to come together to talk about their ancestors. Sgt. Mark Bristow ‘Life in the Ruislip Trenches’, followed by coffee and cake Manor sale. Proceeds to the British Legion. Ancestry silver surfer I.T. session. Ruislip Manor ‘Britain in 1914’. Author Nigel Jones. Uxbridge hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 18 August Check with Home Library Service for venues and times 19 August 3pm to 4.30pm 22 August 2pm to 4pm 26 August 7pm to 9pm 27 August 2pm to 3pm 27 August 10.30am to 11.30am 1 September 10.30am to 12pm 5 September 7.30pm to 10pm 5 September 11am to 12 noon 6 September 10.30am to 12pm 9 September 2pm to 3.30pm 10 September 2pm to 4pm 10 September 8.15pm to 10pm Coffee morning. Share the memories; Oak Farm 12 September remembrance of family World War One. 11am to 12pm Creative writing group. Write about Yeading 15 September your thoughts on World War One. 10am to 12pm ‘Coffee and Conversation’. Kathleen Ickenham 16 September 10am to 11.30am Pearce's Family album. Local historian Ken Pearce will be talking about Kathleen Pearce who served in the RAF during the World War One. Booking essential. Continued on next page... Please note that some events may be subject to change or require tickets so please check with the library or on the council website for up to date information. July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Library/venue When First World War show-and-tell Mobile session. Bring along photos and Library objects from 1914–18 and share your family stories. World War One afternoon tea. Come West and join us for a World War One Drayton themed afternoon tea. Winners will be announced for the children's poetry and colouring competitions. Simple crafts session available for children. Family craft event. Making a toy. Harlington contacts For more information on the planned events visit: www. hillingdon.gov.uk/history 13 hillingdon heroes hillingdon care Events in Hillingdon to commemorate World War One Centenary ...continued from previous page Event Library/venue When Coffee morning. Bring in World War Northwood One memorabilia to share. Hills Community day to celebrate the Hayes End commemorations. Songs, dances, Community activities for adults/children. Centre ‘Hillingdon in the First World War’. St. John’s Talk by C. Cotton. Church, Hillingdon The valuable work of the homing Charville pigeons during World War One. World War One commemorative tea Yiewsley party. Launch event for Yiewsley’s autumn remembrance program. Find your World War One ancestors Eastcote online. Booking essential. Northolt and World War One, Sgt. South Bristow, RAF Northolt. Ruislip West World War One poetry evening. Come along and listen to or read Drayton your favourite World War One poem. Take the opportunity to read your own poetry on this theme. Refreshments provided. Reading Group. ‘Bird Song’ Yeading by Sebastian Faulks. Find your World War One ancestors Yiewsley online. Booking essential. Find your World War One ancestors Eastcote online. Booking essential. ‘Handy Craft’. Create your own Yeading poppy in crochet. ‘Bless 'Em All’. Trace your World Ickenham War One ancestors using online resources including military records. ‘Soldiers of Providence’. Uxbridge Talk by Paul Davidson. 18 September 10.30am to 12pm 19 September 10am to 3pm 20 September tbc 25 September 11am to 12pm 27 September 1pm to 3pm 6 and 8 October 9.30am to 11.30am 9 October 2pm to 4pm 9 October 7pm to 9pm 9 October 10.30am to 11.30am 9 October 10am to 11.30am 10 October 9.30am to 11.30am 15 October 1.30pm to 3pm 16 October 10am to 11.30am 17 October 7pm to 10pm Centenary Fields Programme Hillingdon Council has completed an application to take part in the Centenary Fields Programme. The Royal British Legion and Fields in Trust (which is supported by HRH The Duke of Cambridge) are leading a nationwide initiative aimed at securing recreational space in honour of the memory of millions of people who lost their lives in World War One. The objective of the programme is to encourage every local authority to nominate at least one recreational space as a centenary field. Hillingdon has nominated Harefield Village Green. The hope is that this will create a tangible local legacy that will be valued by the community for generations to come. It will also protect the green space. The initiative is also in keeping with the spirit of the Armed Forces Covenant that our borough is committed to. Honouring VC Heroes As part of a national commemoration of the anniversary, councils across the country will receive pavement plaques to install in honour of Victoria Cross recipients. Two plaques will be unveiled at the Harefield War Memorial in memory of Robert Ryder VC and Cecil Kinross VC on 4 November 2014. 14 Event Library/venue When ‘Dogs in the Great War’ Charville by library staff. Find your World War One ancestors Northwood online. Booking essential. Hills ‘We Need You’. Create a Oak Farm recruitment poster for World War One as part of a workshop exploring art and advertising during the period. ‘Glory Days’. Computer game for Charville children age 6 to 11 years. ‘Quest for the First World War’. West Free interactive drama workshop. Drayton Suitable for children aged 7 to 11 years. Booking required. ‘Empire, Faith and War: The Sikhs Botwell and World War One’. An illustrated Green talk by Parmjit Singh, UK Punjab Heritage Association. Animal stories from the web. Charville Children age 6 to 11 years. Children’s session. World War One South poem plus M. Morpurgo. Ruislip ‘Biggles Flies Again’. Children’s Uxbridge craft session on the RAF. ‘Glory Days’. Football in times of Ickenham War. Children's activity suitable for age 7+ years. Booking essential. Find your World War One ancestors Harlington online. Booking essential. ‘Life in the Trenches’. Uxbridge Author Peter Hart. Read aloud session for adults. Hayes End Reading poetry from World War One. Mother and child making a large Charville poppy. Rhyme Time pre-school. Poetry event. Remembrance. Manor Farm Poppy collage. Children's Yiewsley storytime event. Charity quiz night with all proceeds Ickenham going to the Royal British Legion. Kathyrn McCord member of staff Yeading will help you find your World War One ancestors online. ‘Then and Now 1914’. Reflection Yeading of changes since World War One. Junior Booking essential. School Ben Copsey of the Peace Pledge Uxbridge Union. Conscription and conscience. ‘An Army Chaplain’s Work During Charville the Great War’. Rev Dr Peter Howson a former army chaplin and author. ‘Coffee and Conversation’. The Ickenham History of RAF Northolt with guest speaker Sgt. Mark Bristow. Booking essential. Coffee morning. Read World Northwood War One poems. Hills Find your World War One ancestors Oak Farm online. Booking essential. Reading Aloud. Poetry from Yiewsley World War One. ‘We Will Remember Them’. Uxbridge Researching those who died from Hillingdon. Talk on the work of Tanya Britton, historian. Anzac Centenary Celebration. Harefield 23 October 11am to 12pm 23 October 10.30am to 12pm 27 October 2pm to 3pm 28 October 2pm 28 October 10.30am to 11.30am 30 October 6pm 30 October 2pm 30 October 2pm to 3pm 30 October 10.30am to 12pm 30 October 3pm to 4pm 31 October 10am to 12pm 31 October 7.30pm to 10pm 6 November 10am to 11am 7 November 10am to 10.30am 7 November 7pm to 10pm 7 November 10am to 11am 7 November 7pm for a 7.30pm 8 November 1pm to 3pm 11 November 1pm to 3pm 14 November 7pm to 10pm 17 November 11am to 12pm 18 November 10am to 11.30am 20 November 10.30am to 12pm 21 November 10am to 12pm 29 November 10am to 11am 5 December 7pm to 10pm 25 April 2015 10am to 11am July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine V iennetta and Simon Basterfield have fostered more than 100 children for Hillingdon Council over a 13 year period. Hillingdon People caught up with them to find out more about the role and their motivation to foster. Having raised seven children and their youngest son home regularly from university, Viennetta and Simon are at ease with a house full of children. The couple also work full time - Viennetta as a housing support officer and Simon a freight handler at Heathrow Airport. Alongside their work schedules, they manage to find time in their lives to foster children and young people of all ages. Asked how they fit it all in, Viennetta says it helps they work shifts. “There’s always someone to take the children to and from school. It’s about juggling everything and it works well for us.” People who work full-time or have busy social lives may think that they wouldn’t be able to foster. But Viennetta says otherwise: “To those who think they wouldn’t have enough time, I would say try it…you definitely can foster even if you have busy social lives.” Viennetta and Simon have fostered children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers, as well as brothers and sisters and emergency placements. Some of the children live in the UK, but others arrive through Heathrow seeking asylum. What age group do the couple hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 prefer caring for? Viennetta says she enjoys looking after all children, but adds: “I like teenagers. I don’t mind the challenging behaviour some bring. It can be hard work!” She says teens are often used to doing what they want – it’s part of growing up – and they don’t always have the same ground rules. She knows that her job as a foster carer is caring for them, making time to listen, providing encouragement and a loving home, at the same time managing the boundaries and giving them an opportunity to grow and move on to independence. On brothers and sisters, the couple say this doesn’t necessarily create more of a challenge. “We have got two children at the moment. They’ve been with us since September last year. When there are two children they don’t feel left out in certain social situations. It makes it easier for them to have a companion and it is less scary.” The previous set of siblings that they fostered are still in touch. They have moved away, but Viennetta says she had promised to buy one a prom dress, so when she visited recently, they went shopping together. Because they build up a strong and caring relationship with the children they see a lot of them after they have moved on. What made the couple decide to foster? Viennetta says her mother died when she was born and her husband never knew his father. Her stepmother brought her up and she says: “She made me the person I am today. “My husband and I wanted to give something back because of they way we were brought up. There was always someone there for me and I want that for the children I foster.” Viennetta says that if someone out there thinks that they are too busy to foster or couldn’t look after teenagers or brothers and sisters, they should really re-consider. Fostering offers stability for any child or young person and Simon adds: “As long as you are part of something stable in life, you will do well.” Vienetta says: “In many aspects of our lives we face the unknown. This can be worrying or frightening. It’s taking that first step that is important.” The council is calling for more prospective carers to come forward, particularly those from black and Asian communities, and people able to foster teenagers, parent and child and sibling groups. Families are needed for children of all ages and backgrounds, some will be part of sibling groups and others may have special, additional or complex needs. contacts To find out more about becoming a Hillingdon foster carer, visit: www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fostering 15 hillingdon environment hillingdon environment Youth Council younger members play their part in London in Bloom Hillingdon in Bloom, London in Bloom and Britain in Bloom judging is taking place throughout the summer with residents of all ages hard at work ensuring the borough is attractive for everyone. H illingdon in Bloom was launched in April at the Rural Activities Garden Centre and the winners will be announced at the Autumn Show in September. Efforts to keep the borough looking tidy, green and vibrant will also play a part in our entry for the London and Britain in Bloom competitions. Judges from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) will tour the borough from 28 July – 8 August to assess the area’s achievements. Picturesque places on the judge’s list to visit include conservation areas, natural habitats, and our many award-winning parks and open spaces. They will also consider civic pride, enthusiasm and overall cleanliness. Winners are announced at the Britain in Bloom UK Finals Awards Ceremony in Bristol on Thursday 16 October. Get growing for the Autumn Show Hillingdon is set to hold its second Autumn Show on Saturday 20 September at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge following last year’s success. The fruit and vegetable growing competition is free to enter and open to everyone, regardless of gardening experience. There are competition classes for a variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs – so plenty of opportunity to win prizes, which include gardening equipment and garden centre gift vouchers. There is also an art competition where you can paint, draw, sculpt or photograph an exhibit with a vegetable theme. A dedicated children’s section for the under-15s is split into three age group categories and focuses on cress, ornamental gardens and vegetable art. Judging at the exhibition takes place in the morning with the event open to the public from 12 noon. 16 You can pick up application forms from the borough’s libraries or apply online at www.hillingdon. gov.uk/bloom. Applications close at 5pm on 10 September. Once registered, you will receive an information pack detailing the rules and more information. Capture the summer Remember to send us your photographs of the borough’s parks and open spaces as part of our annual photography competition. Capture your favourite spots to be in with a chance of winning a canvass of your photo, courtesy of Kodak Express, High Street, Ruislip. There are two categories: under-16s and adults. You’ll have to be quick as the closing date is the end of July. Winners will be announced at the Hillingdon in Bloom prize giving ceremony in September. View terms and conditions online at www. hillingdon.gov.uk/bloom. Helping to keep the borough tidy Ruislip Eastcote Northwood District Explorer Scouts have been out across the borough in June litter picking for Scout Community Week. Scouts aged between 14 and 18 took part in various clean-up sessions at a number of the area’s parks and green spaces including, Eastcote House Gardens, Warrender Park, Eastcote, Ruislip Lido and Hogs Back, Northwood. Fifteen young people and adults filled eight bags of rubbish in 90 minutes at Ruislip Lido, drawing numerous positive comments from the public for their good work. Young people from Green Corridor, Canon corporate volunteers, local Scouts and Guides, River Pinn volunteers and Yeading Brook volunteers, have also been helping the council’s green spaces team to clear Himalayan Balsam in Hillingdon this year by pulling it out by hand. Himalayan Balsam is a non-native plant that is classed as a weed because it grows quickly and smothers other flowers and grasses. It also blocks the flow of rivers in the summer. Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services, said: “I would like to thank the volunteers for their great efforts in helping us tidy up the borough and weed the Himalayan Balsam. Their help makes such a difference to residents and visitors who enjoy spending time in our green spaces.” To take part in Himalayan Balsam removal and other volunteering events in the borough’s parks and green spaces, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/greenspaces. Youth Council younger members have been learning how to cultivate gardens for London in Bloom by planting tomatoes, French beans and beetroot from Hillingdon Council’s Rural Activities Garden Centre in planters at the front of the Civic Centre, Uxbridge. When the fruit and vegetables are fully grown, people passing by can pick the healthy produce and take it home. Cllr David Simmonds, Deputy Leader of Hillingdon Council and Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “Our Youth Council younger members are always happy to participate in rewarding community projects and I look forward to seeing the fruits of their labours flourishing in the planters around the Civic Centre.” Youth Council younger members planting fruit and veg Girl Guides removing Himalayan Balsam from Yeading Brook July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 17 hillingdon cover feature hillingdon cover feature A host of family summer events Hillingdon brings you a summer of free open-air family events from BigFest and Medfest to the Family Fishing Fun Days. There’s something for everyone to keep you entertained during the holidays. BigFest returns Take a step through time Hillingdon’s much loved Medieval Festival will return to the historic Manor Farm site, Ruislip on Sunday 17 August. The well loved, free event will offer a packed programme of historical re-enactments, including horseback jousting, a medieval jester and knights in combat. The medieval encampment in the orchard offers members of the public the opportunity to experience a medieval style village first hand, with a wise woman, a surgeon’s tent and medieval style cooking. Other highlights include a hog roast and displays of medieval music and dancing. The historic Great Barn will offer a range of arts and crafts activities courtesy of Hillingdon Council’s Adult Education, with additional food, a farmer’s market and artisan stalls provided by the site’s regular Duck Pond Market. For more information visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/medfest. Family Fishing Fun Day Anyone keen to try fishing can come along to one of two free family fishing fun days on Sunday 20 July and Sunday 3 August, between 9.30am and 3.30pm at Little Britain Lake, Packet Boat Lane, Cowley. There will be introduction to fishing sessions, river dipping, a bouncy castle, face painting and a craft tent. You will also be able to talk to experts about fishing in the borough. Registration for fishing is on the day and, due to their popularity, places for all activities are offered on a first come, first served basis. All equipment will be provided. This is set to be another enjoyable family day out so make sure you get there early. 18 July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 This street festival returns for 2014, bringing all the curiosities and delights of a travelling show, alongside the magic of street performance. This free event will be held on Uxbridge High Street on Sunday 28 September between 12 noon and 4pm. Festival goers can visit the Travelling Treasury, a unique storytelling experience that takes place in a transformed caravan. Here you can explore the Wonderful World of Mr E, who has travelled to strange new lands in his very special caravan and collected some weird and wonderful artefacts. You can even watch a show in the world’s smallest theatre which is mounted on a motorbike sidecar. Children and adults alike will marvel at the jugglers, sword swallowers and stilt walkers who will entertain as they weave through the crowds while the pop up Literature Salon - a big success last year will entertain culture vultures and bookworms. Other attractions include a caricaturist, fairground games and an Italian market. For music lovers, the flower stall outside the station will once again become the Flower Stall Stage, entertaining you with an eclectic mix of live music acts performing throughout the afternoon. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration, said: “BigFest is a celebration of Hillingdon’s rich arts and leisure scene and brings Uxbridge vibrantly to life. “The range of performances will entertain all the family and I hope as many residents as possible will go along to the High Street and enjoy the magical entertainment that this unique festival has to offer.” For more information view www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bigfest. contacts To find out more about events this summer, visit: www. hillingdon.gov.uk/leisure 19 hillingdon mayor hillingdon environment Introducing Hillingdon’s new T Mayor his will be an exciting year for Cllr Catherine Dann, who was elected Mayor of Hillingdon for a third time for 2014-15 at Hillingdon Council’s annual general meeting on Thursday 5 June. Cllr Dann will undertake a number of visits, participate in a range of events and meet a variety of residents from around the borough during her year in office. She comes to office with a wealth of experience. She is a councillor in Eastcote and East Ruislip Ward and has lived in Eastcote for 37 years, serving as a councillor for 24 of these. She was Mayor in 2001-2002 and 2007-2008 and has been Chairman of several council committees and is a Governor of Bishop Ramsey Church of England School and Newnham Junior School. She is also President of the Eastcote branch of the Royal British Legion, President of Eastcote Horticultural Society, President of the ACORN Youth Club (for young people with learning difficulties) and Trustee of the Ruislip-Northwood Old Folks Association. The Mayoress is Mrs Rita Kilroy. The Deputy Mayor is Cllr George Cooper and the Deputy Mayoress, Cllr Judith Cooper. Organisations gain from Mayor’s Charity Appeal Former Mayor and Mayoress Cllr Allan and Lynne Kauffman gave seven charities money at a special gathering in the Mayor’s parlour. The presentation followed a year of fundraising during their time in office. The couple would like to thank everyone for helping them to far exceed their fundraising target. The mayoralty covered 973 events and raised a grand total of £88,276 which will go to their seven chosen charities. They will also support Hillingdon Hospital neo-natal unit by buying an incubator. While other councils cut back, Hillingdon Council has been putting its residents first by introducing new and improved weekly recycling collections. Hillingdon People reports on the services making it easier for you to recycle. Cllr Dann, said: “It is an honour to be the Mayor of Hillingdon. I am looking forward to meeting many people who visit, live and work in the borough during my year in office.” Cllr Dann will raise money for Michael Sobell Hospice as part of the Mayor’s Charity Appeal. Both the Mayor and Mayoress have personal experience of the services Michael Sobell Hospice offers and the comfort, help and support they provide both for patients and their families. Michael Sobell Hospice will be providing the Mayor with a list of items and services they wish to purchase for the benefit of local people, their families, friends and carers. contacts You can donate to the Mayor’s Charity by sending a cheque made payable to Mayor’s Charity Appeal 2014/15 to Mayor’s Parlour, Civic Centre, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. 20 Making it easier for you to recycle July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Textile recycling Garden waste Food waste It’s nearly a year since the council introduced doorstep textile collections. Thousands of you have been putting your unwanted clothes and other textiles into the purple tinted bags which are delivered to you. You can recycle all unsoiled clothes, shoes, curtains, towels, handbags and soft toys. Please firmly tie the bags and leave them for collection alongside your other recycling. They are separated from the other dry recycling when the lorry deposits its load. It is then sent to a textile merchant. In the first nine months of this service, £29,000 has been raised which will be donated to charity. Remember you can order purple bags online or pick them up from your local library. Since October 2013, you’ve also had the option to recycle your food waste for free with your regular weekly collections. About 20,000 households have signed up to the food waste scheme, helping reduce the amount of rubbish going to landfill. You can recycle bread, pastries, cakes, fruit, vegetables, cereals, rice, pasta, tea bags and leaves, coffee grounds, dairy produce, small amounts of butter and lard, food scrapings, pet food, paper and kitchen towels. You can order a kitchen caddy to dispose your waste in your kitchen, rolls of biodegradable corn starch bags to line your caddy and a 23 litre external food storage bin (with self locking lid) online. Food waste is collected each week by the same crew who collect garden waste. As well as introducing textile recycling, we’ve also been collecting garden waste weekly for a year. Just place items - including dead flowers, fruit and vegetable peelings, grass cuttings, leaves, hedge clippings and weeds – in your garden waste sacks and leave out on your regular collection day. Every residential property with gardens should have three heavy duty canvass bags. Worn or damaged sacks will be replaced for free, which you can order online. Did you know? If you have a large garden and find that three bags are not enough, you can purchase up to three additional sacks at a cost of £5 each. Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “To help protect the environment it’s important that we make recycling as easy as possible and the new services we have introduced are doing just that.” hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 contacts For more on recycling visit: www.hillingdon. gov.uk/recycling 21 hillingdon health Get fit this summer T here’s no better time to start walking, jogging or running, the weather is beautiful and the borough’s green spaces are waiting to be explored. Our back to sport sessions will help you to try a new sport or re-acquaint you with a former favourite activity. The sessions are inexpensive and you’ll get a range of health benefits both physical and mental. O ur borough has close links to the Armed Forces with large numbers of serving personnel living in Hillingdon, alongside numerous ex-service personnel, war veterans and their families. RAF Northolt in South Ruislip has a long tradition of holding events for the public. More than 20,000 people flocked to see the Hawker Hurricane aircraft at the 1938 Empire Air Day. The base still attracts crowds, with 8,000 people attending its open day on 14 June this year. The council and RAF Northolt received £24,000 from the Ministry of Defence’s Armed Forces Community Jog it off is part of this programme. We run free adult jogging and walking sessions for all abilities led by experienced runners. You will begin at an appropriate level and if you need to adjust the pace the leader will adapt the session to suit. Details of sessions are below. A 3km run, jog and walk loop has been recently installed on Hillingdon House Farm. The 321 Loop, at the back of Hillingdon Athletic Stadium, is a jogging circuit divided into 3, 2 and 1km sections as a guide for runners or walkers. The surface is a mix of gravel and grass and you can run past Park Wood and the River Pinn. The loop is free and can be used at any time of the day. Cllr Philip Corthorne, Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Housing, said: “By being more active and trying a new form of exercise, you will start to lead a healthier lifestyle. It’s not important how much you do or how good you are, every little helps to improve your fitness. The back to sport sessions don’t just Jog it off sessions 22 Supporting our Armed Forces June was a special month for honouring and supporting the Forces in Hillingdon. Jog it off Introducing the new Jog it off 321 Loop hillingdon community Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Saturday Sunday Hillingdon Athletic Stadium, Gatting Way, UB8 1ES 5.45pm Meet near the athletics track (session 45 mins) Contact: Sports Development sportsdev @hillingdon. gov.uk Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW 12.30pm Meet on Cricketfield Road, outside the Civic Centre back steps. Contact: Thomas Peters tpeters @hillingdon. gov.uk Hillingdon Athletics Stadium, Gatting Way, UB8 1ES 5.45pm Meet near the athletics track (session 45-60 mins) Contact: Sports Development sportsdev @hillingdon. gov.uk Stockley Park, UB8 3LL (car park), just off the Colham roundabout 9.30am Free eight week course in partnership with Hayes and Harlington Road Runners. Contact: Jack Nisbet jack.nisbet @talk21.com www.hhroad runners.com Ruislip Lido car park, Reservoir Road, Ruislip, HA4 7TY 9.45am Contact: John Doyle or Tony Bennit j.doyle @mail.com Covenant Grant Scheme to provide 2,000 free community tickets to young people and force veterans. The open day kicked off in style with the Queen’s Birthday Flypast, which included a range of in-service aircraft plus the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the Red Arrows. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration, said: “The RAF open day was a fantastic occasion which showcased Northolt and enabled residents, visitors, serving personnel, exservice personnel and their families to come together as a community to view the exciting displays.” Flag raised for Armed Forces Week A special flag raising ceremony was held at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge on Monday 23 June to mark Armed Forces Week. This is a national event which raises public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces. focus on jogging, a range of sports are there to cater to your taste.” You can take part in a number of back to sport activities, including badminton, fencing, golf, netball, swimming and tennis. contacts If you’re interested in participating in back to sport sessions you can fill in a registration form online. For other sports, further details and session information, visit: www.hillingdon.gov.uk/back2 Pledge online to be more active: www.hillingdon. gov.uk/change4life July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine contacts For more information, help and support for people who serve or have served in the armed forces and their families, visit: www.hillingdon. gov.uk/servicepersonnel hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 23 hillingdon cuture hillingdon culture What’s on offer at Manor Farm Manor Farm, Hillingdon’s flagship heritage and culture site, set in 22 acres of beautiful grounds with a unique collection of community spaces, historic buildings, and landscape features, is well worth exploring this summer. Where is it? It is located at the north end of Ruislip High Street, close to public transport links with those visiting by car able to park in St Martin’s car park, adjacent to the site. Restoration took place on the site between 2007 and 2008 with funding from the council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Events are regularly held at various locations on the site and is open to the public all year round. The Manor Farm House This is a Grade II listed building built between 1506 and 1511. Admission to the house is free and here you will find an interactive display illustrating the history of the entire site. It also contains a range of artefacts that were uncovered during the restoration. 24 Winston Churchill Theatre and Hall This building was refurbished in March 2011 thanks to a grant from the council. The theatre can seat up to 350 people and includes a kitchen and lounge area, which increases the scope of its use by the community. The Cow Byre Tea Room and Art Gallery Great Barn The Little Barn: The Manor Farm Library The Great Barn is a unique and exclusive venue and is believed to be the oldest timber frame building of its type in Greater London. It is also Grade II listed and was built between 1280 and 1300 from trees felled in Ruislip Woods. Over 36m long and 9m wide, the barn is used for functions and can be privately hired for weddings, conferences, concerts and shows. This barn dates from the 16th century and was renovated as part of the borough-wide library refurbishment programme. A copy of the Domesday Book can be viewed here. There are a number of PCs, a children and adult’s library, an online library, photocopying facilities, wi-fi access, a study area and newspapers and magazines. Details can be found on our website www.hillingdon.gov.uk/manorfarm. The Arts and Crafts Workshop Sheds Motte and Bailey castle remains The Pram Shed Museum is a small building near to the Manor Farm House which exhibits farming tools. The motte (mound) is a scheduled monument which means it is a nationally important archaeological site. You can view the remains of the motte and bailey castle which is believed to date from shortly after the Norman Conquest of England. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member of Community. Commerce and Regeneration, said: “Manor Farm is a venue which is steeped in history and I would encourage residents and visitors to go and see what it has to offer. “At the Manor Farm House you will find out about the site’s rich history, the Great Barn is a beautiful venue for weddings and other events and the refurbished library offers an excellent service and space for the community.” July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine These were also renovated and are now fully operating workshops used by local craftspeople, who welcome visitors. The Pram Shed This building dates back to the 19th century. It houses a tea room and art gallery, used by many local arts societies to exhibit their work. July/August 2014 Markets The Manor Farm site hosts the Duck Pond Farmers’ Market on the first Sunday of each month and the Duck Pond Artisan Food and Craft Market on the third Sunday of the month. The markets are a popular meeting place for families and friends, with over 100 stalls to browse from contemporary crafts and vintage clothes to handcrafted jewellery and organic foods from 10am to 3pm. Admission is free. Visit www.duckpondmarket. co.uk to find out more. Ruislip Country Markets are held on Friday mornings in the Manor Farm Community Hut, next to St Martin’s car park. There you’ll find fresh local produce; vegetables, fruit, eggs, cakes, plants, hand-made cards, knitted items, jams, chutneys, pickles and more. contacts For more information visit: www.hillingdon. gov.uk/manorfarm If you would like to hold an event at Manor Farm email: [email protected]. uk or call 01895 277643 The Great Barn hosts its first opera The opera rehearsal An acclaimed production of Mozart’s tragicomic opera Don Giovanni came to the barn on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June. Classically trained singers from touring company Opera Vera performed at the 12th century building fresh from its Covent Garden premiere. Visitors picnicked in the grounds of the farm before settling down to watch as a tale of skullduggery was brought to life in the atmospheric barn. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration, said: “It’s great that the Great Barn is also being used as a musical arts venue. We would like to welcome more acts to perform here and hopefully this was the first of many.” 25 hillingdon social care hillingdon first Have your say on... H health and social care services ealthwatch Hillingdon, the borough’s independent consumer champion for health and social care has published its Annual Report for 2013-14, The report, ‘Telling Your Story to Influence Change’, which is available on their website, outlines the first year of local Healthwatch in Hillingdon and shows how it has been building its capacity and capability, while also achieving changes which are improving service quality. Healthwatch works closely with the council and NHS to ensure the borough’s adults, young people, children and communities have a greater say This unique card scheme puts residents first by offering a range of special rates for council parking, leisure facilities, access to libraries and a variety of discounts at participating businesses. Have you got yours? on how health and social care services are run in Hillingdon. Working with the council is an important part of this. Healthwatch is involved in the Older People’s and the Disability Assemblies, and through these has recently been able to improve access to GP’s for the deaf community, by ensuring British Sign Language interpreters are available. If you would like to comment on your experience of health or social care in the borough, you can call 01895 272 997, email [email protected]. uk or visit their website www. healthwatchhillingdon.org.uk. Assembly for Older People Have your say about the services for older people provided by Hillingdon Council and its partners. Tuesday 23 September 2014 2pm to 4.30pm Middlesex Suite, Civic Centre, Uxbridge UB8 1UW For further information, please call 01895 250427 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/olderpeople 26 Make the most of discounts this summer with your HillingdonFirst card July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine Comments by residents about the card: “I feel the council is looking after its residents.” T here are now 162,490 current active card holders in Hillingdon with over 10 million transactions recorded since the HillingdonFirst card was introduced six years ago. If you are a new resident or don’t yet have a card why not apply for one now, and benefit from the privileges it brings. The HillingdonFirst card can be used in a variety of ways and gives holders a number of advantages and discounts. It works as a library membership card. It can also be used as a leisure card which gives the holder preferential rates at participating leisure centres such as Hillingdon Sports and Leisure, Highgrove Pool and Fitness, Queensmead Sports and Botwell Green Sports and Leisure. Other benefits include discounted parking rates across the borough and access to the Harefield Waste and Recycling Centre. You also get a wide range of discounts and rewards from the local businesses hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 “It’s truly visionary and putting something back.” who participate in the scheme. “Gives residents incentives to stay local.” You must present your card at libraries, Commerce and Regeneration, shops, car parks and leisure centres said: “This is a unique and every time you wish to benefit from successful scheme which not only the facilities and preferential rates. provides those who live in the If you don’t already have a card, borough with so many services at you can order one online and preferential rates but at the same start to reap the benefits. You can time is a real boost for businesses then use your card straight away. by encouraging residents to shop To find out which local businesses locally. I would recommend those and shops are participating you who are new to the borough can view the online directory. Over and those who have yet signed 350 businesses participate in the up to do so now to benefit from discount loyalty scheme offering everything it has to offer.” a range of exciting discounts. The HillingdonFirst card doesn’t just offer benefits to residents but is contacts also great for businesses. The card If you would like to order a provides retailers with free promotion card, find out more, view the through the council’s online online business directory directory and enables businesses or register your business, to build loyalty with residents. visit: www.hillingdon. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet gov.uk/hillingdonfirst Member for Community, 27 y l i m a F FREE ENTRY AND ACTIVITIES g n i h s F A Fun Days at Little Britain Lake and River Colne Sundays 20 July and 3 August 2014 9.30am to 3.30pm Packet Boat Lane, Cowley, UB8 2JR Equipment and bait provided Catch of the Day prizes Refreshments Registration, for fishing, on the day only. All activities are offered on a first come first served basis. Meet top angling professional Keith Arthur PL U S al Speak to representatives from loc Fishing’ angling clubs and ‘Get Hooked on Student volunteering boosts community For more information please contact Lyn Summers 01895 556640 lsummers@ hillingdon.gov.uk www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fishing joint initiative between the Union of Brunel Students (UBS) and Hillingdon Council is increasing students’ involvement in the community and promoting civic pride. Launched in 2013, the Community Engagement Project has seen students volunteering extensively to help the local community. Projects range from a reading scheme at a local primary school and the tidy up of gardens at a sheltered housing scheme to running a workshop with Age UK to help elderly residents learn computer skills. As part of the scheme, a guide is distributed to all students packed full of information about the university, services provided by the council and how to get involved in volunteering. The project has also rolled out the Silent Students, Happy Homes (SSHH) campaign with local police to raise awareness of being good neighbours in residential areas, which has reduced the number of complaints about students. Following a successful trial, a bus will be laid on every Wednesday and Saturday evening during term time to keep noise levels down and students’ safe when travelling home from Uxbridge town centre. University students are also working hard to boost local communities through the Brunel Volunteers Scheme run by the university, which also supports the Community Engagement Project. In this academic year, 400 students took part, contributing 8,777 hours of their time to projects including a Good Deed Day on the streets of Uxbridge, with funds raised going to the Mayor’s charity. Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Community, Commerce and Regeneration, said: “These volunteering schemes are making a positive contribution to the borough and I’m delighted to see so many Brunel students are getting involved.” contacts For further details of the Community Engagement project, visit: www.brunelstudents. com/community The website www. brunelvolunteers.com provides details of the volunteering opportunities for Brunel students hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 DASH and FIESTA The Disablement Association Hillingdon (DASH) will be working in partnership with the council to run a four-day activity week in August as part of the council’s FIESTA programme. This is the first time that FIESTA has included activities for young people with disabilities. The programme will offer sporting activities, crafts, arts, teamwork and communication skills games. Rob Burton, Deputy Chief Officer of DASH, said: “Giving young people with disabilities the chance to take part in our summer activity week is something we feel is important not only for promoting a healthy lifestyle but to allow these young people to meet new friends. “Working in partnership with the London Borough of Hillingdon is something we have been doing for a number of years and the relationship with the FIESTA programme is something we want to develop for years to come.” 29 Fostering and adoption information events The school holidays are nearly here and you’ll need plenty of ideas to keep your children entertained. View www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ events to see what’s happening in the area in July and August. at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge UB8 1UW Only One Direction (Midnight Memories Tour) Book your place today The world’s original and best One Direction tribute band comes to Hayes as part of their 2014 theatre tour. 0800 783 1298 fost-adopt@ k hillingdon.gov.u Capturing the charisma, energy and enthusiasm of the famous five, this show features songs from all three of One Direction’s smash-hit albums. This is a perfect family friendly pop concert guaranteed to keep you up all night complete with giveaways, audience participation and a meet and greet with the boys. When: Wednesday 6 August at 7pm Where: Beck Theatre, Grange Road, Hayes, UB3 2UE Cost: £16. There is a £1 per ticket booking fee on this performance. No fees for Premiere Card Members or group bookings. Contact: Book online on www.becktheatre.org.uk or call 020 8561 8371 Medieval Festival This popular medieval festival returns in 2014 with the usual mix of authentic re-enactments, thrilling battles and a range of medieval curiosities. This event will certainly bring history to life for your whole family. If you’re interested in fostering or adopting in Hillingdon, come along to one of our presentations, which will include talks from foster carers and adopters, and provide the opportunity to ask questions. Thursday 24 July 10am to 12pm Tuesday 12 August 6.30pm to 8.30pm Tuesday 9 September 6.30pm to 8.30pm Thursday 25 September 10am to 12pm Please arrive five minutes before the start time. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fost-adopt When: Sunday 17 August from 11am Where: Manor Farm Heritage Site, Ruislip Cost: This is a free event, just turn up on the day! DK proDuKtions presents The Stage is Yours 2014 This is a five-day musical theatre workshop for children and teens aged 7-14 between 25 August and 29 August. You will rehearse songs and dance routines from hit musicals old and new, led by skilled tutors and performers of musical theatre. The final show will be performed on stage at 3pm on Friday 29 August. This is a great way to learn new skills and make new friends during the summer break. When: Monday 25 - Friday 29 August, 10am to 4pm Where: Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD Cost: Places are £95 plus a £1.25 fee per booking online or £1.75 offline, unless you pay by cash or if you are a Compass Club Member. Tickets to the Show are £5 plus a £1.25 fee per booking online or £1.75 offline, unless you pay by cash or are a Compass Club Member. Contact: Book online at www.compasstheatre.co.uk or call 01895 673200 hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 31 what’s on? Music Lee Mead in concert, 7.30pm Sunday 20 July, 7.30pm Lee Mead is best known for winning the TV programme Any Dream Will Do and becoming Joseph in London’s West End. He also had star roles in Wicked and Legally Blonde. Lee has been taking his very successful concert show around the country over the last three years touring his albums. Come and join Lee and his band for an evening of music. Cost: £24.50. There is a £1 per ticket booking fee on this performance. No fees for Premiere Card Members or group bookings. Contact: Call the Box Office on 020 8561 8371 Beck Theatre An evening of Dirty Dancing Friday 25 July, 7.30pm Now in its fourth smash hit year, this tribute show is directed by Paul Spicer with choreography by Leanne Harwood. All the hits from the movie will be performed. Cost: £19.50. Concessions £1.50 off and 10% off with a Premiere Card. There is a £1 per ticket booking fee on this performance. No fees for Premiere Card Members or group bookings. Contact: www.becktheatre. org.uk or call the Box Office on 020 8561 8371 Beck Theatre Family fun day in the park Saturday 6 September, 11am to 4pm Family fun day stalls, fun fair, dancing, displays, dog show, martial arts display, tug of war. Fun for all of the family. Hayes End Community Centre Kids Holiday club Monday 28 July – Friday 1 August, 1pm to 4pm Holiday club for children aged 5 to 11. Activities include games, keep fit, crafts, singing, stories and much more. Places must be booked in advance. Contact: Diane Faichney on 01895 444406 Bell Farm Christian Centre Summer circus skills Saturday 13 September, 7.30pm A Ruislip Lions charity fundraising concert featuring the Grimsdyke Band. Includes licensed bar and raffle. Cost: £12 per ticket Contact: Call 01895 634743 Winston Churchill Hall Monday 4 – Friday 8 August, 10.30am to 3.30pm Albert and Friends Instant Circus will lead a circus skills course where participants can try out stilt walking, Rolla-Bolla, juggling, Diablo tricks, giant ball trotting, unicycle and tight wire walking. On the last day families are invited to watch the new skills the children have learnt throughout the week. Cost: £90 Contact: Call 01628 675800 to book. Email northwoodarts@artreach. biz with enquiries. St John’s Church, Northwood Family Urban kickboxing – junior academy Hooray for Hollywood Hillingdon summer splash Sunday 27 July, 12pm to 8pm Hillingdon Summer Splash is a community event which aims to raise money and awareness for Halo Children’s Foundation and 32 the Chandran Foundation. Programme includes: organised children’s events, steel pan music, a masquerade fashion show, children’s bouncy castle, face painting, tug of war, a variety of stalls, Brazilian dance. There will also be a pop up cinema showing a Disney film. Cost: Advance tickets: Under 5s free, children 50p, adults £1, family ticket £2 (two adults and two children) Contact: Charlotte Barrett or Grace Nelson on 07944 219186 or 07714 770071 Connaught Recreation Ground Every Friday, 6pm to 7pm Kickboxing is a great way for children to be active and develop co-ordination, strength, self-confidence and discipline. As well as learning the art of kickboxing, children will also be taught about their responsibility to use skills appropriately. Cost: £6 per child Contact: Simon Wright on 07557 645800 Hayes Rugby Club Stars at Knight School of Drama Every week on a Saturday, 10.30am to 11.30am If you’re interested in drama and are between the age of 7 and 11 then this is an ideal class. Children will enjoy drama games, learn mime, improvisation, stage falls and take part in voice and speech exercises. Contact: For more information or details on other classes see www.starsatknightschoolofdrama.co.uk. You can also call Judy Kelly on 020 88418940 or 07956 123626 You can also email starsatknight@ btinternet.com Compass Theatre Ruislip Eagles junior handball Every Saturday, 10am to11.30am Junior handball training, open to all abilities, for 11 to15 year olds. Cost: £2.50 per session Contact: development@ ruislipeagleshandball.co.uk Uxbridge College Sports Hall Zumba Kids Every Saturday 9.15am to10am The Zumba Kids program is the ultimate dance-fitness party for young Zumba fans aged 7 to11. Wear comfy shoes and clothes. Don’t forget to bring water. Parents can come too! Cost: £4 per child, £7 if you bring a sibling or a friend. No need to book in advance. The Barn, Uxbridge Summer reading Challenge July – September The Mythical Maze Summer Reading Challenge runs between July to September each year. It’s aimed at primary school children and children are encouraged to sign up at their local library and read six books. You will be able to collect stickers and other awards along the way. A number of events and activities will be running in all of the borough’s libraries. Contact: For further details on the Challenge visit www.hillingdon.gov. uk/summerreading Cost: Free Crafts The Austin Sewing Club Every week on Monday and Tuesday, 10am to 1pm Twice weekly sewing club run by residents living in Hayes. Sew and chat, up-cycle, repair and make your own clothes. Machines and basic equipment supplied. Bring your own cotton and materials. Biscuits also welcome! Cost: Free The Residents’ Meeting Room, The Austin Estate Craft bags Every other week on every weekend Pick a craft bag from the selection provided then use what you find inside to make a very special creation that you can take home. Suitable for children 3+ Cost: From 50p Contact: 01895833 375 Colne Valley Park Visitor Centre Flower arranging demonstration Every second Thursday of the month, 9.30am to 10am Talk and demonstration on flower arranging, information on plants and flowers, sales tables, raffle and refreshments. Cost: Membership fee is £18 and visitors can come along for £3 Contact: 01895 850943 Ickenham Village Hall Leisure Singability’s Quiz & Sing with chip supper Thursday 24 July 7.30pm Come and take part in a light-hearted music based quiz. Enter a team or join others to make up a team. Included in the ticket price is a tasty chip supper (choose from fish and chips, veggie burger and chips or sausage and chips). We’ll also be having a good old fashioned sing-a-long with performances from the Singability Singers. Cost: Tickets £9 (in advance only) Contact: Book tickets online at www.singability. co.uk, call 07763 912165 or in person at a session Ickenham Village Hall Harlington WI annual produce show Saturday 6 September, 1.30pm Exhibits include handicrafts, floral art, fresh fruit and vegetables, cookery, james July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine and chutneys, photography and literacy, Exhibits can be viewed from 1.30pm and the winners’ trophies will be presented at 3.15pm. There will also be refreshments, a raffle, numerous homemade items on sale. Cost: Free admission Hayes and Harlington Community Centre IT taster sessions Every first Friday of the month, 10am to 11am Computer skills for ultimate beginners. Learn how to use a keyboard and a mouse. Cost: Free Uxbridge Library Hillingdon Natural History Society Every first Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday of the month, 8pm to 10pm The Society is for anyone with an interest in natural history and meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Meetings during summer are local outdoor evening walks with varying subjects. Contact: Enquiries@ hillingdon-naturalhistory society.org.uk Scout Headquarters, Uxbridge and other locations as specified on the programme Bowling Club days every Wednesday, 2pm to 8pm Learn to play bowls, socialise and make new friends at Harlington Bowling Club. You will need to remember your Grange Road, Hayes, UB3 2UE South Road, West Drayton, Middlesex, UB7 9LW 61 Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, UB10 8DQ Botwell Green Leisure Centre Hayes, UB3 2HW Colne Valley Park Visitor Centre Denham Court Drive, Denham, Uxbridge, UB9 5PG Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, UB10 8PD Every Monday, 7.45pm class for beginners, slow practice session 8.30pm to 9pm, social dancing 9pm to 11pm Come along to these fun sessions and learn to jive! You don’t need to bring a partner and you don’t need any experience. These are drop in classes so you don’t need to book. These are a great way to keep fit, meet new people and have fun. Contact: therockingrebels@ gmail.com or call 07951 652 083 or view wwww.facebook.com/ therockingrebels Cost: £5 Harefield Cricket Club Exercise Social bike ride Every second Sunday of the month A fun, free, social bike ride every second and fourth Sunday of each month to a variety of locations. Contact: email@ bikewisegb.com Bikewise, Ickenham support body and mind throughout pregnancy and to prepare for birth. From 16 weeks until birth. Contact: Hillingdon Leisure Centre on 08451 307324 Hillingdon Leisure Centre Empowering Yoga Every week on a Thursday, 9.30am to 10.45am Empowering yoga classes are designed to nourish the soul and body, strengthen the core and increase flexibility. Cost: £9 per class (Free trial class) Contact: info@ empoweringyoga.co.uk St Thomas More RC Church Learn to Nordic Walk Every week on a Sunday, 9.30am to 10.30am Learn the correct Nordic Walking technique in four weeks! Easy to learn. No previous experience necessary. Walking poles provided. Location may vary so you can explore the green spaces in the borough. Cost: £25 for four sessions Contact: Call Penny Smith on 01895 420 409 or email: learningmoves@ hotmail.co.uk Stockley Park Tappenings Tap Dance group Every week on a Saturday, 10am to 11.30am Special yoga postures and breathing techniques to Every week on a Monday, 7.30pm to 8pm Mixed level beginner and intermediate tap dance class. This is a sociable Connaught Recreation Ground Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex Grange Country House Ickenham Village Hall Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon UB10 OPB Beck Theatre Bikewise Beginners Jive Dance Classes Pregnancy Yoga Venues Bell Farm Christian Centre flat shoes. All other equipment will be provided. Contact: Call Mrs J Fisher on 10895 443559 or Mr F Valentine on 01895 463757 Harlington Bowls Club, Pinkwell Park Rickmansworth Road Northwood Middlesex HA6 2RB Gatting Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1ES Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, UB10 8DG Harefield Cricket Club Meadows Community Centre Hayes and Harlington Community Centre Pinkwell Park Breakspear Road North, Harefield, UB9 6NE Albert Road, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 4HR Hayes End Community Centre Kingsway Hayes End, Hayes, UB3 2TZ Hayes Rugby Club Grosvenor Playing Fields, Kingshill Avenue, Hayes, UB4 8BZ Wise Lane West Drayton UB7 7EU Waltham Avenue, Hayes, UB3 1TF. Scout Headquarters Gatting Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1ES St Thomas More RC Church 32 Field End Road, Eastcote, HA5 2QT group class with no exams or a set syllabus. Cost: £5 per week Contact: Penny Smith on 01895 420 409 or 07771872592 Disability multi sports sessions Every week on a Friday, 11am to 1pm Adapted sports and exercises for any ability Cost: £2 Contact: [email protected]. uk or 02088488319 Botwell Green Leisure Centre Exercise for people with Parkinson’s Every week on a Monday, 10.45am to 11.45am Exercise classes specifically designed to aid people with Parkinson’s. Movement to music and strength and conditioning exercises (seated or standing) Cost: £3 per class Contact: Penny Smith on 01895 420 409 or 07771872592 Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex Standing Pilates Every week on Tuesday, 11.15am to12.15pm The exercises are performed seated and standing enabling people with restricted agility to gain strength and mobility through the trusted Pilates training method. Beginners welcome. Cost: £5 Contact: Jo Roberts on 07817018840 St John’s Church Hallowell Road, Northwood, HA6 1DN Stockley Park Uxbridge, UB11 1AQ The Barn Martyn Lodge, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, UB8 3PN The Residents’ Meeting Room The Austin Estate, Silverdale Road, Hayes, UB3 3BY Uxbridge College Sports Hall Uxbridge College, Park Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1NQ Uxbridge Library High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1HD Winston Churchill Hall Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7QL If you wish to publicise an event, please email details to [email protected] or send to Hillingdon People, 3E/07 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Events are selected at the editor’s discretion. hillingdon people magazine July/August 2014 33 advertisements Join Our Weekly Healthy Walks Golden numbers To advertise in this magazine telephone Emma Gilbertson on 01895 250828 Don’t get stung! Use a local man! Please mention Hillingdon People when responding to adverts Start at our surgery at noon on Tuesdays West London Medical Centre 20 Pield Heath Road, Hillingdon 01895 233881 www.londongp.org.uk Ask at reception for details Exclusively for our patients only Volunteers Urgently Needed Royal Voluntary Service Hillingdon Befriending Service Are you a friendly person who can support older people with dementia? Could you do weekly home visits or drive our clients to activities? We offer training and travel expenses and the hours are flexible! Call: 020 8589 0060 or email: [email protected] Do you have good quality unwanted furniture or electricals? Do it online 24/7 at www.hillingdon.gov.uk Environment and Anti-Social Behaviour 01895 556000 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Council Tax and Benefits 0300 123 1384 Mon – Fri, 9am to 5pm Housing Service 01895 556666 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm School Admissions, Childcare and Early Years 01895 556644 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Families’ Information Service 0800 073 4800 Council Main Switchboard and Out-of-hour Service 01895 250111 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Fraud Hotline 0800 389 8313 Hillingdon Social Care Direct 01895 556633 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm HillingdonFirst 01895 556677 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Electoral Services and Registrars 01895 558250 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Local democracy Councillors’ names, addresses and advice surgeries www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ councillors Council meeting dates and agendas 01895 250636 Conservative Group Office 01895 250316/250728 Electoral registration 01895 250251 electoralservices@ hillingdon.gov.uk Labour Group Office 01895 250780/250782 Mayor’s Office 01895 250763 34 July/August 2014 hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine Advice and support Age UK Hillingdon 020 8756 3040 Communicare Counselling Service 01895 256056 Consumer advice 08454 040506 Citizens’ Advice Bureau 0844 848 7903 Hayes One Stop Shop 01895 556004 hayesonestop@ hillingdon.gov.uk Healthwatch Hillingdon 01895 272997 Hillingdon Action Group for Addiction Management (HAGAM) 01895 207788 www.hagam.com Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support 020 8606 6780 [email protected] www.hacs.org.uk 9am to 5pm Hillingdon Carers 01895 811206 Hillingdon Independent Domestic Violence Advocacy Service 020 8246 1745 Hillingdon Mind 01895 271559 Hillingdon Women’s Centre 01895 259578 NHS Wellbeing Centre Boots, High Street, Uxbridge 020 3214 5699 P3 Jobshop – Employment Services 020 8581 1056 P3 Navigator Hayes Housing Advice and Support Centre 020 8581 1054/5 navigatorhousing@ p3charity.org Victim Support Hillingdon 020 7259 2424 Care services Adoption and fostering 01895 277850 Drugs or sexual health advice for young people up to 21 years 01895 257285 July/August 2014 Community information Hillingdon Fire Station Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0PH 020 8555 1200 ext 38228 hillingdongroup@ london-fire.gov.uk Samaritans 01895 253355 Social Security (Benefits Agency) 020 8426 3000 Affinity Water 0845 782 3333 Learning Library information desk 01895 250600 Advice and guidance (young people) 01895 257855 Enquiries about school transport 01895 250008 Truancy Hotline 01895 250858 Planning Planning, trees and landscapes 01895 250230 Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm Building control enquiries, inspection requests and dangerous structures 01895 250804 Dangerous structures (out of hours) 01895 250111 Local land charges enquiries 01895 250624/556115 Leisure sportsdev@ hillingdon.gov.uk Botwell Green Sports and Leisure Centre 020 8561 0956 Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex, Uxbridge 0845 130 7324 Highgrove Pool, Ruislip 01895 630753 Queensmead Sports Centre, South Ruislip 020 8845 6010 William Byrd Pool, Harlington 020 8897 9390 Environment and street scene Current and proposed roadworks in Hillingdon www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ roadworks Environmental Protection 01895 250190 Food, Health and Safety 01895 250190 Animal welfare 01895 250190 Pest Control 01895 250155 Parks Officers 01895 239241 Pavement issues 01895 556000 Trading Standards 01895 250164 Hospitals Harefield Hospital 01895 823737 Hillingdon Hospital 01895 238282 Mount Vernon Hospital 01923 826111 Northwick Park Hospital 020 8864 3232 Watford General Hospital 01923 244366 NHS: 111 Police Metropolitan Police nonemergency number. 101 Textphone 18001 101 hillingdon.enquiries@ met.police.uk Community Safety Unit (to report race crime) 020 8246 1766 35