harrow people may 2011

Your Harrow, your stories 1

www.harrow.gov.uk May 2011Your Harrow, your stories

Harrow

Celebrating our carers

WIN!A meal for two at Friends restaurant

We’re here to helpGuiding you through tough times

Street partiesFind out how to set upyour own street party


contents For editorial and advertising enquiries contact:

Editor Angela Hart / 020 8424 7504

Design Nic Marucci

Photography Deborah Harvey / Dermot Carlin

Please recycle this copy of Harrow People when you have fi nished or pass it to a friend.

Harrow People is published six times a year by Harrow Council as part of keeping local people informed. It is distributed to 100,000 homes, businesses and all local libraries. Comments, products and services published do not necessarily carry the council’s endorsement.

If you have any story ideas, please email the editor at [email protected]

myharrow

Courtney Harvey, age 7, says her favourite place is the wildlife gardens behind All Saints Church in Harrow Weald. She says: “I like the church woods because it has lots of wildlife for people to discover. The woods are really beautiful and I sometimes wonder if fairies live here. I often play here with my sister and we are so amazed how different the woodland looks at different times of the year.”

If you have a favourite view of Harrow you would like to share, send us your pictures and a photograph of yourself. Every edition we will publish the best one on this page or on our website. Email [email protected]

4 Harrow’s hot topics

7 Your Harrow, your stories

23 What’s happening in your area

20 Your street party celebrations

18 Your letterspage

26 Harrow’s heritage:St Mary’s Church

10 Celebrating our carers

12 Have your say on social care for adults


hot topicsLeader of the Council, Cllr Bill Stephenson

This edition of Harrow People celebrates and thanks all those volunteers who live in Harrow.

The strength and depth of community spirit in Harrow sets us apart. It never ceases to amaze me when I see how many of our residents give their time, energy and expertise volunteering in so many different ways to make their communities a better place in which to live. It is part of what defines Harrow.

An example of this community spirit was to see the bunting and Union Jacks come out at the Royal Wedding parties which took place in streets and open spaces across the borough. This edition includes a round-up of the best of the festivities. I also wish to flag up the council’s own community festival, Under One Sky, which takes place on Sunday June 26 (see p 25).

We also look forward to a hugely important event in the calendar, Carers’ Week (13th – 19th June) which celebrates and give information about carers – who devote so much of their time to looking after and helping other people, often at great sacrifice to themselves. There are nearly 3,000 carers in Harrow known to the council. If you are a carer and we do not know about you, please get in touch by calling 020 8424 1726. For the first time, our carers have decided the format and schedule for Carers’ Week. (See p 11 for the list of events).

We all know that money is tight at the moment so June will also see the launch of the council’s ‘Helping residents through tough times’ campaign. This will offer help to those who are struggling to make ends meet and give advice, support and information. Look at the special new section on the council website at www.harrow.gov.uk/help

Harrow Association of Disabled People is offering a free home fire safety check for people who live in Harrow and are disabled or over 60 years of age. The fire checks will be carried out by staff who have been fully trained by the fire brigade. If you would like a visit please call 020 8861 9929.

Gas Safe registered companies Heatingworks and ELM Heating are providing free gas safety checks for Harrow residents who are over 65 and are homeowners. Safety checks are available on a first come, first served basis until the end of June.

You can arrange a free gas safety check by calling 07790 907797 / 07931 146459 or email [email protected]

Safe and sound

A successful job scheme helping Harrow’s long-term unemployed back into work is to continue – and even open its doors to more residents, including the under 25s – after securing new funding.

In January, the council-run Xcite for Parents programme was set to close after the Mayor’s London Development Agency (LDA) abolished the pilot scheme and its funding. The scheme had helped over 80 parents find jobs, in the process saving taxpayers an estimated £1m a year in benefit payments.

Thanks to its own success, the scheme has been saved after the council secured performance payments from a European Programme, also funded by the LDA. This funding is a direct result of helping residents back into work. The scheme will now be open to other long term unemployed people and not just parents.

Diana Lewis, 42, is a mum of four from Stanmore Park. She joined the Xcite programme last year after seven and a half years out of work.

She has now secured a job as a community care worker. She said: “It’s fabulous that Xcite will be carrying

on. I’m thrilled for the people who are going to be using it to get back out to work, and get their confidence and self-esteem back.

“It’s also great that the project is now open to everyone. My son is 18 and looking for work so I’ll be encouraging him to get along to Xcite too.

The scheme is open to any Harrow resident keen to return to work, and eligible to work in the UK.

For further information contact Victoria Isaacs on 020 8736 6538 or email [email protected]

‘I’m thrilled Xcite is to carry on’

Diane Lewis


The overall winner of last year’s council-run Harrow Heroes award, Sumo Charles, has won the prestigious RIBI/BBC News Young Citizen Award for his outstanding community work.

Harrow Hero scoops national award

A volunteer and mentor with Harrow Council’s Youth Offending Team, Sumo, 22, was chosen ahead of hundreds of nominations from across the UK and Ireland for his work with vulnerable young people in Harrow. He collected his prize during a ceremony in Dublin on 16th April, televised live on the BBC News Channel.

Charles is one of five winners from across the two countries.

He said: “Winning the Harrow’s Heroes award last year was amazing and now this – I’m overwhelmed and it is a real honour. I was around 15 years old when I started getting into trouble but when my son was born two years later, it was the reality check I needed. I realised that crime doesn’t pay and that I wanted a better life for me and my family.

“I hope this award shows other young people what you can achieve with a positive attitude – if I can change then you can do it too.”

For more information on becoming a volunteer, go to www.do-it.org

Sumo Charles with his son Sanchez

I realised that crime doesn’t pay and that I wanted a better life for me and my family.

If I can change then you can do it tooSumo Charles, winner of Young Citizen Award

Harrow’s first housing fair As many as 200 residents attended the borough’s first ‘Housing Fair’, organised by the council to involve local people in the changes to Harrow’s housing service.

The day-long event, at the Kadwa Patidar Centre, Kenmore Avenue, was also an opportunity for tenants, leaseholders and freeholders to find out more about changes in government housing policy and how it could affect them.

During workshops held throughout the day, residents voiced their concerns and opinions on how the council should manage such radical change.

Topics covered on the day included tenancy changes, money and benefit rights, housing repairs, ways to get involved in resident associations and new ways for residents to have their say.

Find out more by calling 020 8424 1742.

Harrow’s Heroes 2011 To celebrate the work of Harrow’s many volunteers Harrow Council is once again holding its Harrow’s Heroes awards ceremony.

The ceremony takes place in November but we need your help now. If you want to say ‘thank you’ to a volunteer you know, nominate them for a Harrow’s Heroes award.

You can get a nomination form from www.harrow.gov.uk/harrowsheroes or to request a copy call 020 8416 8249 or email [email protected] Nominations are open until 8th August 2011.


guest editor

My storyHello, I’m Brian Brading, I’m 75 years old and I live in North Harrow.

I travel all over the borough as a volunteer photographer for Harrow Police.

I was born in West Harrow and feel a great tie to the area; my father worked at Kodak and I went to school at St Anselm’s, in Roxborough Park, before joining the Merchant Navy when I was 16.

When I turned 19 I went ashore and spent three years in the 1st Kings Dragoon Guards, stationed in Germany, before training as a building surveyor and moving to the Isle of Wight with my wife, Lorna.

I took early retirement in 1995 and we returned to Harrow 10 years later to be closer to our son David.

These days I keep myself busy looking after the garden and, of course, taking photographs.

Brian Bradingguest editor Brian Brading

If you would like

to be a guest editor

in the next Harrow

People, contact

angela.hart@

harrow.gov.uk

Tall order

When I left the army I originally wanted to join the police force, but the height restrictions in place back then put a stop to that – I was an inch too short. I thought that was the end of my ambition, but four years ago I bought my fi rst computer.

I was surfi ng the internet and stumbled across a page about Met Volunteers, so I decided to fi nd out

more. To my delight I was accepted and assigned to the communications offi ce at Harrow Police Station as a volunteer photographer.

I have covered numerous community and charity events and have taken pictures for the latest Safer Neighbourhoods police newsletters, and I have loved every minute of it.

I meet a lot of nice people, from police offi cers to civilian staff and members of the public, and I have also gained a good insight into the everyday working of the police service.

About 60 people volunteer with Harrow Police, and I would recommend it to anyone with a bit of spare time on their hands.

Brian Brading

How you can join

The Met Volunteer Programme asks people to give a minimum of eight hours each month. Volunteer roles usually fall within areas of admin support for Safer Neighbourhoods teams or where some direct contact with the public is required, such as Front Counter Assistants at Pinner Police Station. To fi nd out more visit www.met.police.uk/careers/volunteers or call Janis Anderson on 020 8733 3447.

Volunteers, so I decided to fi nd out

more. To my delight I was accepted

Child’s playThis is one of my favourite photographs (above) I have taken recently. The Metropolitan Police’s Mounted Branch visits schools across London, allowing children to meet offi cers and horses

and fi nd out more about what they do. I took this photograph on a visit to Grimsdyke School. The pupils loved meeting the horses, as the look on this little boy’s face shows!

Brian’s army days

Looking for a local venue for hosting meetings?Harrow Teachers’ CentreLooking for a local venue for hosting meetings, presentations, conferences, interviews or private party, then the Teachers’ Centre in Wealdstone is your affordable solution. Our facilities cater for a minimum of 2 up to a maximum of 300 people.

All rooms come with; Data Projector, Video, Whiteboard, IT Keyboard, and Flipchart Stand with Flipchart Paper & Pens as standard.

Contact details Tel 020 8416 8899 Fax 020 8427 2418 Email: [email protected] Teachers’ Centre, Tudor Road, Wealdstone, Harrow HA3 5PQ

There is free on-site parking, disabled access and hearing aid facilities available. Our on-site restaurant can provide a variety of catering options to rooms upon request.


“I can’t believe how quickly I’ve improved”A new council scheme that aims to get people back on their feet quicker after an illness or accident has delivered impressive results.

The scheme, called ‘reablement’, offers six weeks of intensive support to adults leaving hospital.

Pinner resident Doreen Jordon has just fi nished her six week ‘reablement’ and is delighted to be back in her own home, living independently again. This was made possible through the support offered by the council’s reablement team. She also feels safer and more secure with her personal alarm.

She said: “Last year when my husband was in hospital, after becoming ill with a stomach complaint, I was travelling in and out to see him everyday and got really run down. I wasn’t eating properly or looking after myself. When he was released from hospital he fell out of the bed at home and I had to call an ambulance for him. When the ambulance men saw us they told me that I needed to come with them

too. We were both admitted. I was very weak and could barely walk, I had been concentrating on looking after him and my own health had suffered. We both needed hospital care and afterwards help to get back home and manage by ourselves.

“The whole time we were in hospital, all we wanted was to get home and be back together. We wanted to be under our own roof, getting on with our own lives. Since we have been home they helped me with making meals and housework, but have encouraged me to start doing more and more myself. It’s a good idea, otherwise I would sit around and wouldn’t have got better as quickly.

“I have a special stool in the kitchen where I can sit and rest when I am cooking or making a cup of tea. And they have changed the toilet for us and given us a table that moves on wheels, little things

that make a big difference. Before I went into hospital I wasn’t eating properly and could barely walk, now I am up and about, I can’t believe how quickly I have improved.”

Facts• 2,239 people have used the

service since October 2010.

• People who rapidly regain their independence, are less likely to be readmitted to hospital and less reliant on council services, saving an estimated £2m over the next three years.

• The reablement team is based at Byron Neighbourhood Resource Centre. For more information call the Reablement team on 020 8901 2680.

Photo by Deborah Harvey

Caroline Mascarenhas, 37, from Edgware

“I never considered what I was doing was ‘caring’. As far as I was concerned I was looking after my mum and dad, I didn’t even know that carers were entitled to support.

I realise now that there are many, many people out there doing it on their own too and they should realise that they don’t need to,” said local resident Caroline Mascarenhas (pictured below).

Caroline cared for both her parents for a number of years until they passed away. It wasn’t until after their death that Caroline began attending a drop-in session for carers at Harrow Carers’ Centre on the fi rst Monday of every month.

“Although I work as a Life Coach, I volunteer with the council to plan and promote Carers’ Week.

“I know that I ignored my own health and wellbeing when I was caring for my parents so I want to let others know that they are not alone. They can maintain good health and wellbeing as a carer and most importantly should know that support is available.”

Malcolm, 51, and Christine Bucke, 58, from Stanmore

Malcolm and Christine Bucke (pictured above) are carers for their children, Mark, 26, and Sandra, 21, and they jumped at the chance to help with the planning of carers week this year.

“Carers’ Week is a chance to let people know that there is help and support available to them.

Malcolm began attending the monthly carers drop-in at Harrow Carers, in Pinner Road, to get support and information on fi nding employment as a carer. He found it so helpful, he encouraged his wife, Christine to join him.

Their son Mark, who has a learning disability, has recently moved out of home and is now living on his own, with support in place. Now Malcolm and Christine would like to help other carers in the borough who are supporting people with a learning disability.

Christine Bucke, 58, from Stanmore

Malcolm and Christine Bucke (pictured above) are carers for their children, Mark, 26, and Sandra, 21, and they jumped at the chance to help with the planning of carers week this year.

“Carers’ Week is a chance to let people know that there is help and support available to them.

Malcolm began attending the monthly carers drop-in at Harrow Carers, in Pinner Road, to get support and information on fi nding employment as a carer. He found it so helpful, he encouraged his wife,

Celebrating our carersNational Carers’ Week, taking place from 13th – 19th June, will celebrate the millions of people across the country who dedicate their lives to looking after a loved one. Here, some of our carers tell their stories.


Caroline Mascarenhas

the millions of people across the country who dedicate their lives to looking after a loved one. Here, some of our carers tell their stories.

Caroline Mascarenhas,

It wasn’t until after their death that Caroline Malcolm and Christine Bucke

Celebrating our carersNational Carers’ Week, taking place from 13th – 19th June, will celebrate the millions of people across the country who dedicate their lives to looking after a loved one. Here, some of our carers tell their stories.

Your Harrow, your stories 11 Your Harrow, your stories 11

Celebrating our carersDon’t

suffer in

silence

If you’re caring for

someone and need

help call 020

8424 1726

FactsCarers’ Week is an opportunity for the many carers across the borough to come together to celebrate and support each other as well as encourage the many ‘hidden carers’ to seek help and support. In a break with tradition, this year will be the fi rst time the Harrow event has been planned by local carers.

• Therearemorethan20,000carers according to council research, although only 2,800 are currently working with the council.

• Supportavailabletocarersincludes: Information and advice and respite breaks.

• ThelocalCarers’Weekrunsfrom13th to 18th June with information available from Harrow Council’s Civic Centre main reception everyday from 10am to 12noon.

Keep an eye out for information events near you including:

• AfternoonteaandcarersquizatSt Peter’s Church, West Harrow from 1-3pm on Friday 17th June.

• CarersRoadshowatStGeorge’sShopping Centre, Harrow from 11am – 1pm on Saturday 18th June.

For more information contact Allie Brice – Carer Lead Offi cer, Adult Social Care, 2nd Floor East Wing, Civic Centre, Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2UH, 020 8424 1726 [email protected]

Christine Couch, 53, with daughter Natasha Baines, 30, from Stanmore

Christine Couch is a full-time carer for her daughter Natasha and lives in Stanmore. (pictured above).

“I’m just doing what any mother would do. It’s hard work but it’s not all doom

and gloom. I get lots of support but it’s a shame that there are many people out there struggling alone. It’s really important that people know that there is help out there – they just need to reach out for it.

“Carers’ Week is really important because it helps to let other carers know they are supported and this time there is a big emphasis on health and wellbeing. My advice to any carers out there is to keep in contact with other carers – don’t be isolated.”

know they are supported and this time there is a big emphasis on health and

Christine Couch and Natasha Baines


Help us decide your futureHarrow residents are being asked to have their say on the future of social services for adults living in the borough.

The following four areas are now being consulted on. Here are some of our residents’ views on them:

‘The council needs to ensure it keeps the same high quality’Alan Warn, who attends Milman’s Day Centre, tells us what he thinks

“I know why this has to be looked at and I understand that the

council needs to ensure it keeps the same high

quality it has now for future generations. What I don’t agree with is people who can’t afford it having to pay to go to day centres. This would make people prisoners in their own homes, isolated from the community.

These centres are very important to people.

“I hope people get involved in this consultation because there will be no point in complaining after all the decisions are made.”

Consultation 1: Residents’ payments for the care they receive – This looks at removing the ceiling currently in place so that people will pay according to their means. It also suggests introducing charges for all community services, for example day care and home care.

‘Meals on wheels is much more than just a hot meal’Avani Modasia, Age UK Harrow Council, tells us what she thinks

“I feel it is important that the service is shaped properly for the future. My worry would be that if the prices go up too much then older people will say they don’t want it or can’t afford it. That would be the worst case scenario

because they would then become more vulnerable. Meals on wheels is so important, it is more than just a hot meal. For some people it is the only visitor they have all day.

“People need to give their feedback now, otherwise thefuture of the service will be shaped withouttheir input.”

Consultation 2: Cost of Meals on Wheels – All users of the service pay the same amount regardless of the meal they receive or they pay a different amount for a specialist meal.

will be shaped without

‘It’s important that people know the facts’Darshan Kanabar, Concessionary travel user, tells us what he thinks

“There seems to be confusion over what

they are looking to change. Some people

are worried that they are going to take away taxi cards and Freedom Passes and people won’t be able to travel anywhere but that’s not the case.

“I think it is important that people know the facts, so they can understand who it will affect and how.

“I use a Freedom Pass and a taxi card at the moment and they are important to me because they help me meet friends and go to work.

“I know one of the things being looked at is charging people for lost cards. I think that is fair enough as there is a cost to the council when that happens.

“I think if we work together we can hopefully make it fair for everyone – both the council and people who use the service.”

Consultation 3: Eligibility for concessionary travel – This looks at who should be entitled to a ‘discretionary Freedom Pass’ (this does not affect the age/disability related freedom pass). This will propose a £10 charge for lost/damaged Freedom Passes. No charge is suggested for cards that are stolen.

‘It’s important that people know the facts’

they are looking to change. Some people

are worried that they are

Cuts in Government funding mean Harrow Council will be forced to save around £62million in the next four years, with up to a third to come from the adult social care budget.

Consultation has been carried out with people who already use services in the borough, but it is important that all residents give their views. Any one of us

may need the support of social care in the future, so it is important that we make our voice heard now.

During a massive pre-consultation exercise into how these cuts could be met, more than 7,000 people were given the opportunity to have their say. Their feedback has helped to shape the following areas for full consultation.

For more information on the consultation or to have your say contact www.harrow.gov.uk/adultservicesconsultation, email [email protected] or telephone 020 8424 1017.

You can also write to FREEPOST RSKK XXBR-UCHU, Harrow Council, Adults Services Consultation PO Box 65, Harrow HA1 2XG.


The consultation period began this month and will run until mid August.

We are pleased to be able to report that thousands of people gave their views during the pre-consultation phase. We are hoping to carry out the full consultation in the same way.

We want to make sure that we carry out this consultation effectively and that as many people as possible are given the opportunity to have their say and be confi dent that their views will help to shape changes. There are a variety of ways that you can get involved. For information on consultation activity or to attend one of our events please call 020 8424 1017.

Help us decide your future

Consultation 4: Transport to community activities – This looks at exploring other options for transporting people to community activities.

‘I am not against the idea of change’Rohit Moorji, Community Travel user, tells us what he thinks

“I use community transport to get to Bentley Neighbourhood

Resource Centre

(NRC) twice a week. When I heard about the consultation on this I wanted to be involved from the start to make sure they heard what I have to say.

“People are worried. Things are up in the air. I use community transport but I am not against the idea of change. I might even like to travel on my own if I was supported.”

‘I am not against the idea of change’

Resource Centre

Get out into our parksA fi fth of Harrow is green space or park land, making it one of the greenest boroughs in London. With summer around the corner we spoke to residents who are getting involved and making the most of their local park.

‘I am proud to volunteer in my local park’

Eugene O’Callanan is a familiar face to park users in Kenton. As vice-chairman of Kenton Adventure Park Management and volunteer park warden, he gives up hours of his own time every day to improve the park he loves.

He said: “The park was under used, which I thought was a real shame, so we formed the management group to encourage more people to use it. Two years later we’ve got allotments, sports facilities and the park is much better used.”

Eugene puts his hand to everything from litter picking and bulb planting to feeding

ideas for new facilities to council staff. His work supplements that done by the council, and the group also receives a grant to help support their work.

“I absolutely love it,” he said. “I get to meet people everyday and as the seasons change I get to see the results of my work. I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing how much the park has improved and local residents have told me how much they love to use the park now. I’m just happy to do my bit.”

‘I helped to save our new playground’

Local mum Susie Nathan (pictured right with Jesca) is celebrating after winning her campaign to improve local playgrounds. Nine new or improved play areas have now been unveiled across the borough.

Susie got involved after speaking to fellow park users who were disappointed to fi nd out planned improvement works had been put on hold after the government withdrew its funding last summer. Her campaign received national media coverage and eventually the minister in charge changed her mind.

Susie and her one-year-old daughter Jesca joined councillors and pupils from nearby St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary School to offi cially open the new park at Queensbury Recreation Ground, in Honeypot Lane, after winning their bid for government money to be reinstated.

Susie said: “This is a brilliant day for local families. The old equipment was tired, old fashioned and falling into disrepair. In contrast our new playground is really exciting, there is something to do for kids of all ages; I’ve never seen the park so busy!

“I’m really pleased we made a difference; I’ve spoken to local parents and they’re all so happy to have somewhere so nice to bring their children. It’s going to make a real difference this summer.”

Other new or improved parks are: The Croft, Brockhurst Corner, Pinner Memorial Park, Chandos Park, Byron Rec, Cedars, Roxbourne Park and Shaftesbury Park.

love to use Susie got involved after speaking to fellow park users who were disappointed to fi nd out planned improvement works had been put on hold after the government withdrew its funding last summer. Her campaign received national media coverage and eventually the minister in charge changed her mind.

Susie and her one-year-old daughter Jesca joined councillors and pupils from nearby St

To fi nd

out more

about getting

involved in your

local park

call 020 8424

1758


‘I work out with my neighbours’

Residents in Kenton are losing pounds but saving money by getting a free workout in their local park.

A new outdoor gym, which boasts six pieces of high tech equipment, has been unveiled, and is already proving popular with park users. Pravim Haria, 67, of Brampton Grove, said: “I’m very active; I swim and do yoga and tai chi. I also walk in the park everyday and it’s great

to have something new to do here.

“It seems very popular. I’ve been using the equipment for 15 minutes everyday and I think it’s excellent. It’s a lovely park and it’s nice to be able to exercise with such beautiful views.”

Other outdoor gyms can be found at Alexandra Park and Chandos Recreation Ground.

Get out into our parksHarrow has more than 60 areas of parkland and open space covering more than 400 hectares.

Many of them have user groups which offer ways to volunteer and get involved in your local park.

Bentley Priory, Harrow Recreation Ground, Harrow Weald Common, Pinner Memorial Park, West Harrow Recreation Ground, Canons Park and Kenton Recreation Park all have active user groups.

Volunteer wardens from Harrow Nature Conservation Forum work in the nature services and wild open spaces across the borough.

For more information visit: www.harrow.gov.uk/parks or call 020 8901 2600.

A fi fth of Harrow is green space or park land, making it one of the greenest boroughs in London. With summer around the corner we spoke to residents who are getting involved and making the most of their local park.

How you can do your bit



MAUREEN BHARRAT, Edgware

With all of the changes and cuts, people are very worried. I am a member of my Tenants and Residents Association (TRA) and people come to me with their fears. What can we do for people? I know the council has less money, but they should still support us.

A:We would like to reassure people that at present there are no changes

proposed for existing tenants – the key changes are more likely to affect people who become tenants in the future. There will be a number of consultation events set up over the coming months so that residents can have their say on how things may change in Harrow – so look out for them.

In housing we are very committed to supporting our Tenant and Resident Associations, and Harrow Federation of Tenants and Residents Association will have discussions at their meetings on the key issues that are emerging. So please do let us know if members have specifi c concerns and we will do our best to respond to them.

NATALYA HORHVLA, Kenton

I am worried about the future of housing in Harrow, particularly for people with disabilities. My son needs support but I would be hopeful that one day he will be ready for his own home, his own independence. What will changes to tenancies and cuts mean for his future?

A:Support is defi nitely available for your son, to enable him to live as

independently as possible, but I cannot say at this stage what kind of tenancy will be best for him or how quickly he will be able to achieve it. Please call the housing advice service on 020 8424 1093.

JOSE D’CRUZ, South Harrow

I am renting in the private sector and I came to this housing day to fi nd out what options I have. It is very diffi cult for me to fi nd a good place to live. What are the council’s plans for the future, do I have a chance of a council home?

A:Council and housing association homes must by law be let strictly

according to the rules set out in Harrow’s allocations scheme. Less than 400 homes become available for letting each year, (half of which have only one bedroom). If you are working and struggling to pay a private sector rent, but you are not overcrowded and have no medical need to move, you have no priority and no chance of getting social housing. We are currently reviewing this. If you would like to see less emphasis on medical and overcrowding need and more on rewarding people who work or who volunteer in their local community, contact your local councillor by visiting www.harrow.gov.uk. In the mean time, you may also receive support through

Dear Harrow resident,Welcome to your Harrow People letters page.

This page is open to all residents to question, comment and air their views on any council service, or product. We want you to dictate what is published on this page every issue, so get writing, emailing or phoning with your questions and comments.

This page will give residents a platform for their views and questions. By publishing your correspondence, both positive and negative, we intend to make this magazine even more interactive and relevant to readers.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact us today on:Tel: 020 8424 7504Email: [email protected]: Harrow People, Communications Unit, PO Box 21, Civic Centre, Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2XF

Dear Harrow

and we will do our best to respond to them.

advice service on 020 8424 1093.

This month we visited Harrow’s fi rst housing fair to ask some of our residents for their questions.


our Help2Let scheme where we match residents on the housing waiting list with private landlords. Councillors are considering this very diffi cult question of “who should get social housing?” and would love to hear their contstituents’ views, so that they can set the framework for a new policy going forward into 2012-2013.

AUDREY CHANG, Harrow

I think the Housing Fair was a great idea. People are concerned about the future and there is a lot of confusion. What else is the council doing to do to make sure we are kept informed?

A:This was the council’s fi rst attempt to engage with all residents of

our housing estates on all of the changes being proposed by the government on how social housing will be provided and managed in the future. Many of the changes are not entirely clear yet, and there is more work to do in Harrow to decide how we implement the changes over the next year or so. The council will try to keep residents informed through magazines like our

tenant publication, Homing In, and also plan to hold more events, perhaps road shows on our estates over the summer months. A great way to be kept up to date is to join your local Tenant and Resident Association or get involved in one of our many other resident involvement activities. For more information on how you could be involved contact Funmi Nwagabo 020 8420 9233 or Chris Morren on 020 8424 1610.

JAMES PALER, Pinner

I am interested in moving to another borough. Can the council help me to move? What do I need to do and what areas can I look at?

A:If you have more bedrooms than you need you could be entitled

to an under-occupation incentive payment of £1,500 for each bedroom you give up, and the council’s contractor will move your belongings for you. Unless you are over 60, however, very few councils will accept a nomination by Harrow. If you have relatives or friends in a particular town or area our Help2Let team may be able to fi nd you a private rented property, even if you are not downsizing. Many places outside London have shorter waiting lists, so you could get back into a social tenancy relatively quickly. Talk to your housing options offi cer if you’d like to be referred, by calling 020 8424 1093,or e-mail [email protected], little fi nancial help is available, beyond brokering a deal with a landlord to secure your new home. Alternatively, why don’t you register for a mutual exchange with Homeswapper? Sign up online at www.homeswapper.co.uk

areas can I look at?

A:A:If you have more bedrooms than

informed through magazines like our

Win a meal for two at Friends Restaurant.Award-winning Friends Restaurant in Pinner is offering one lucky reader, plus guest, the chance to dine at one of the borough’s premier restaurants. The prize includes a three course dinner and a bottle of house wine. Friends’ approach to good food is based on simplicity. Friends has been awarded AA Rosettes and Michelin listings for thirteen consecutive years.

For a chance to win this fabulous prize, send your name, address and daytime number to: The Editor, Harrow People, Civic Centre, Station Road, Harrow HA1 2XF before June 15th, 2011.

The council has published exciting proposals to regenerate Harrow Town Centre and Wealdstone, and we want to hear your views.

Working with planning experts and the community, the council has drawn up four options for revitalising the heart of the borough. They aim to transform this commercial and entertainment centre, attracting new business to create 3,000 extra jobs and build 2,500 new homes over the next 15 years.

We particularly want to hear from people who live, work or go to school in Harrow Town Centre, Wealdstone and along Station Road.

From now until 24th June, 13 drop-in sessions will be held around the borough inviting people to come and fi nd out more as well as give their views.

These views will be used to create a masterplan for the area, that will guide all future development and stimulate regeneration.

Find out more at www.harrow.gov.uk/heartofharrow

Shape the heart of Harrow – planning consultation

WIN!

For more information call 0800 064 1000 or visit www.harrow.gov.uk or email [email protected]


We all know money is tight at the moment and that many families, individuals and businesses are feeling the pinch. A huge range of practical help and advice is available from the council and its partners.

We have launched a special new section on the council website at www.harrow.gov.uk/help where you can get advice and information.

If you are in fi nancial diffi culty the most important thing is to get help straightaway. No matter how tough the situation may seem, there are ways to manage your fi nances and the council and its partners are here to support you. No-one should struggle on their own as support is at hand on issues including:

• Benefi tsFor anyone struggling to make ends meet, whether you are unemployed, in work or retired, make sure you are claiming the benefi ts you are entitled to.

• HousingAll you need to know about social housing.

• Jobs and trainingInformation on back to work schemes such as Xcite, offering free workshops on CV writing, interview techniques and job hunting.

• Money and debtWhere to go if you are struggling to pay rent or council tax or need sound advice on managing your money.

• Leisure and cultureKeep fi t on a budget at council-owned leisure centres, enjoy free internet access in our libraries or take advantage of free or affordable culture and entertainment.

• Business supportClaim small business rate relief or get advice on cutting costs and boosting trade.

Feeling the pinch – we are here to helpfamilies, individuals and businesses are feeling the pinch. A huge range of practical help and advice is available from

“I had recently started work as a dinner lady but that is just a few hours a week. The Xcite project helped to give me a lot more confi dence so I could step up my job search. They helped me with interview technique and I am so grateful for this.

“I have now started a new job as a housekeeper at a local hotel and I am really enjoying it. I met lots of new people and already made some new friends.”

One of the ways we are helping to improve the lives of our residents is with our Xcite project, see page 4 for more details.

Angela Goodenough, 34, has been unemployed since she had her fi rst child at the age of 17. “I was concentrating on raising my fi ve children so couldn’t really go out to work but they are all grown up now so I didn’t want to stay at home anymore.

The Xcite project has helped to give me a lot more confidence so I could step up my job search.

Angela Goodenough

The Xcite project has helped to give

and already made some new friends.”want to stay at home anymore.


It’s party time

You don’t have to close the road to have a get together with your neighbours. Harrow is one of the greenest boroughs in London and we are lucky to have lots of open spaces, so why not think about holding your event in one of these.

A street party may require you to have permission from the council and you need to give us at least four weeks notice in order to gain a traffi c order to close the street, so you may be too late to organise

this for the Big Lunch on the 5th June, however with the Golden Jubilee coming up in 2012 why not get into the swing of holding regular community get-togethers.

If you would like to take part in the Big Lunch, register your event online to receive your free starter pack at www.thebiglunch.com or call 0845 850 8181.

‘I love the idea of community spirit’

“I have become friendly with my neighbours just from organising the party on my street. When we were knocking on doors and asking people if they were interested, I got to know so many of my neighbours that I hadn’t met before. I love the idea of community spirit. I come from New Zealand and I have no family here so this is very important to me.

“The only thing a lot of people have in common is that they live on the same road so it nice to have an excuse to break the ice with some of our neighbours.”

Phillipa Matthews, Wellesley Road

coming up in 2012 why not get into the

Linette Pooley, 2nd left, Wellesley Road

‘It’s a great way to get to know your neighbours’

“I have lived on my road for three years and only knew one or two of my neighbours. Through this party I have met so many more who I have become friends with. One neighbour who I didn’t know has lived here for 49 years so it was great to meet her.

“Our street party started with all the neighbours joining together to decorate the road – everyone then came back outside after the wedding to set out tables, play music and bring food.

“All the neighbours shared stories about their time on the road and we had an egg and spoon race and fancy dress for the children and water balloon tossing and jelly eating for the adults! Everybody had an absolutely fantastic day! Esquires, Starbucks and Tesco all donated items to help with the party.”

Linette Pooley, Wellesley Road

There is no better way to get to know your neighbours and improve community spirit than by having a street party as the recent Royal Wedding celebrations have shown. Harrow People takes a look at how some of our local residents celebrated, and gives some tips on how you too can get involved.


Tesco all donated items to help with the party.”

Wellesley Road

It’s party timeIt’s party timeIt’s party timeIt’s party time


Linette Pooley, 2nd left, Wellesley Road

Mick Mason, Golf CloseMick Mason, Golf CloseMick Mason, Golf Close

Betty and Norman Barnett, Golf Close

Mick Mason, Golf CloseCharlie enjoys his icecream, Golf Close

Your Harrow, your stories 21Drummond Drive



Drummond Drive

Your Harrow, your stories 21 Your Harrow, your stories 21 Your Harrow, your stories 21 Your Harrow, your stories 21 Your Harrow, your stories 21

Mick Mason, Golf CloseMick Mason, Golf CloseMick Mason, Golf CloseMick Mason, Golf Close

It’s not too late to organise your own street party – here are some top tips.

• Involveallyourneighbours–street parties are a celebration for residents.

• Dependingonthesizeofyourevent we recommend you take out Public Liability insurance, it only costs about £50 and this will cover your event for up to £5 million.

• Setabudgetandkeeptoit.

• Planearly.

• Nominateafirst-aiderwhocanbe clearly identifi ed.

• Decorateyourstreet,butpleaseuse common sense when putting decorations up. Lightweight bunting should be used and remember to ensure emergency vehicles can get through should they need to!

• Thinkaboutfoodhygiene,visitwww.harrow.gov.uk/streetparties for advice on food preparation.

• Rememberifyouareplanningtoclose a road you will need to give the council at least four weeks notice, contact the Traffi c team on 020 8424 1884 for advice.

We are making it easier for you to hold street parties and small local community events by:

• Waivingthefeeforstreetpartiesfor six months from April 2011 when it will be reviewed.

• Onesimplecalltothecouncilto request a no-nonsense form and it is totally free of charge. Call 020 8424 1884.

If you want your street party or local community get-together to feature in Harrow People, send a couple of photos to [email protected] – photos need to be a minimum of 300dpi and make sure you include your contact details. We’ll pick the best ones to feature in the magazine and on our Facebook page! Alternatively, you can add your photos to our Facebook page yourself. Simply visit www.facebook.com/harrow.council

We really enjoyed the day with all the neighbours getting together. It is lovely to be part of a small, friendly community.

Betty and Norman Barnett, Golf Close, Stanmore

It really was a lovely day and so nice to get to know our neighbours a little bit better. What a brilliant day !

Rita Carr, Drummond Drive

HAVE A VOICE INPOLICING HARROW

THE HARROW POLICE AND COMMUNITY CONSULTATIVE GROUP

Warmly welcome you to their bi monthly meetings

• Come,participateandmakeadifference.

• MakeseniorHarrowPoliceOfficersaccountable

• HearaboutCrimePreventionandvaluableupdates

• HPCCG–CommunityandPoliceworkingtogether

For further information call 0208 424 1264 or 0208 424 1323

www.hpccg.org.uk


your essential guide to your area

A new chapterLocal libraries will temporarily close for a period of one week each during the summer to allow for the installation of self-service machines.

Pinner library was the fi rst in Harrow to offer the new self-service machines last month. The new machines mean that staff will be more at hand to assist library users in the work they are doing, as they will no longer be stuck behind the check-out desk.

Geoffrey Porter from Pinner was the very fi rst resident to use the new self-service library at his local branch in Pinner.

Mr Porter said: “I was guided through it this time, but it seemed fairly intuitive to me. It seems to prompt you at each step. I look forward to using it again in the future and having a proper look at how it all works.”

For more information and advice and to fi nd your local library, go to www.harrow.gov.uk/libraries

Libraries scheduled closure times:

Gayton library – closed May 22-26th

Roxeth library – closed June 1st-9th

North Harrow – closed June 15th-23rd

Civic Centre – closed June 29th-July 7th

Wealdstone – closed July 13th-21st

Rayners Lane – closed July 27th-August 4th

Kenton – closed August 10th-18th

Hatch End – closed August 24th-September 1st

Please check these dates with your local library or go to www.harrow.gov.uk/libraries as dates are subject to change.Harrow Open Studios

Trinity Orchestra 30th anniversary season

Saturday 25 June 2011, 7.30pm Pre-concert talk given by the musicians at 7pm. Trinity Orchestra ends its 30th Anniversary celebrations by welcoming back its esteemed President and former Music Director, internationally-renowned cellist Paul Watkins, who will perform Elgar’s famous and melodious Cello Concerto.Venue/address Trinity Church, Hindes Road, Harrow HA1 1RXPrice Adults £12, concs £10, children £6, family (2 + 3) £30 available from Box Offi ce 020 8428 5924, online at www.wegottickets.com or at the door. Harrow Open Studios

11th-13th June,18th-19th June, opening hours 11am-6pm each day.This popular and well established event is now inits fourth year. Artists taking part will each open their home studios to the public, with an exhibition of their own work.Harrow Open Studios has a membership of over thirty artists, from quite a wide area including, Harrow, Pinner, Ruislip, Hatch End, Rayners Lane and other locations.

Visit www.harrowopenstudios.com for more information about individual artists and their specifi c opening times.

Friends of Canons Park Family Fun day

Sunday 17 July With Laser Tag; Beat the Goalie competition with professional goal keeping coach, Jason Jamal, fun dog contest; kids’ fairground rides and bouncy castles; face painting; free sessions on the art desk and a wide variety of stalls, as well as the tea tent and the big brass band. Entry to the Fun Day event is free and it takes place from 2pm to 5pm at the Donnefi eld Avenue entrance to Canons Park. For more information go to www.friendsofcanonspark.org.uk

Community fi tness classes

Yoga classes for adults with learning disabilities and autism over the age of 18.Mondays 1pm-2pm, Cost £5 per person. Larches Community, 1 Rectory Lane (behind Starbucks) Edgware, Middx. HA8 7LF. Call 020 8905 6333 for bookings.Senior fi tness Wednesdays 10.45am to 11.45am Wealdstone

Methodist Church Locket Road, Wealdstone. Contact 07979 952277 www.jansdanceandfi tness.com Bums & Tums Wednesdays 8pm to 9pm 19th Harrow Scout Hall High Road, Harrow Weald (nearest side road Claremont Rd). Contact 07979 952277 www.jansdanceandfi tness.com Tap dancing adults Thursdays 11.15am to 12.15pm 19th Harrow Scout Hall High Road, Harrow Weald (nearest side road Claremont Rd) Contact 07979 952277 www.jansdanceandfi tness.com Lite Aerobics Thursdays 7.15pm to 8.15pm St Albans Church hall, Norwood Drive, Harrow. Contact 07979 952277 www.jansdanceandfi tness.com Line Dancing Thursdays 8.30pm to 9.30pm St Albans Church hall, Norwood Drive N Harrow. Contact 07979 952277 www.jansdanceandfi tness.com Zumba All classes are £5. Contact Tito Severino 07903 265230, email [email protected] Irish DancingGuilfoyle-Llewellyn Academy of Irish Dancing. Classes in Harrow on Tuesdays. Call 07738 975029 [email protected]

Inner Glow DanceIntroducing three new dance classes – Commercial Funk, Commercial Pop, and Lyrical Sway – which ignite creativity, independence and confi dence. Aimed at children between 7 and 12 years old. Venue: Jewish Free School, The Mall, Kenton. Call 07904 571236 or 07950 763944 for more information.

longer be stuck behind the

Geoffrey Porter from

the new self-service

Mr Porter said: “I was

you at each step. I look forward to using it again in

SUNDAY 26 JUNE 2011


the Grim’s Dyke brass band and a gardener’s surgery.Call 020 8385 3100 for more information.

May at Harrow Arts Centre

For all bookings call 020 8416 8989.So & So Circus: The Hot Dots

Wednesday 25 May, 8pm, 50 mins£10 / £8 concsSomething Different / FamilySo & So’s stunningly unique acrobatic performances makes The Hot Dots a show like no other. If you want to laugh; if you want to cry; but most of all, if you like your entertainment to keep you on the edge of your seat, then this is the show you have been waiting for. If you thought acrobatics was performed by lycra-clad troupes to thumping music, think again. This is acrobatics for the 21st century, and will leave you questioning what you previously thought was possible. Paul Sinha

Friday 27 May, 8pm, 100 mins£12 / £10 concsComedyComedian Paul Sinha was born in the UK to Bengali parents and the family medical dynasty. Qualifying as a doctor in the 90s, Paul also then took his fi rst steps onto the stand-up comedy circuit. At the 2006 Edinburgh Festival he earned a nomination for the highest accolade in live comedy, the if.comedy award (formerly Perrier). Theatre shows and many appearances on the likes of BBC Radio’s; ‘The News Quiz’, ‘Just a Minute’ and ‘Fighting Talk’ have followed, along with much critical acclaim. “Hilariously funny, passionate and articulate” (Chortle)Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole Cert PG

Tuesday 31 May, 2pm, 97 mins£3, FilmWhen a young owl is abducted by an evil Owl army, he must escape with newfound friends to seek out the legendary Guardians to stop the menace

Community Plus at Whitmore High

Badminton Court HireMondays. from 6.30pm onwardsPrice £9 per courtInclusive Badminton Club – young people with disabilities are encouraged to attend to experience quality coaching from qualifi ed Badminton England coaches!Date Fridays from 4pm-6pm.11-19 years old. £4 per session.

Back2Netball. Thursdays.6.30pm-7.30pm and 7.30pm-8.30pm. 18+ years old. £4 per session

ZumbaMondays8.30pm-9.30pm£5 per session

BoxerciseMondays8.30pm-9.30pm£4 per session

All session above take place at:Whitmore High School, Porlock Avenue, Harrow. HA2 0AD020 8869 [email protected]

Fists Taekwondo School

Classes every Thursday At St George’s church hall, Pinner View from 4pm. Run by former Olympic competitor and English national coach Chris Sawyerr. Call 07956 325268 for more information

Grim’s Dyke Open Day

The Grim’s Dyke country house hotel At Old Redding, Harrow Weald, will be holding its annual Open Day on Bank Holiday Monday May 30th.The Open Day has become a bit of a ‘fi xture’ in the local social calendar and last year attracted over 3000 visitors.This year another fun-packed day is guaranteed for people of all ages and will include guided tours of the house and grounds, barbeque, cookery demonstrations, magic shows, garden games, face painting, a fi re engine, Morris dancers,

your essential guide to your area

Family Fun at Under One Sky Put the date in your diary to come and join the excitement at the 2011 Under One Sky Festival counting down ‘One Year to Go’ to the 2012 London Games

The day will include a jam packed programme of activity celebrating Harrow’s cultural diversity including a live Music Stage, Sports Zone, Healthy Living and Community Zone, Enterprise, Council Services and a Youth Music stage alongside a tantalising world food and arts market

This year’s acts will include award winning Bhangra sensation H Dhami. Also adding to the world music theme are Afro-Funk explosion, the 120 voice Tonic Choir, Yaaba Funk, Harrow’s Hidden Talent winner Shelina Devendrarajah, Bhangra Electro Pop group Swami and a taste a jazz and fusion brought to you by Sheelanagig.

The day will also feature a large Championing Harrow themed Sports Zone, fi lled with many exciting activities for all ages, including the chance to rub shoulders with celebrity and Olympics sports stars, wrestling and martial arts, a range of disability sports, Zumba fi tness workshops, fencing and much more!

A highlight of the festival will be the spectacular parade, led by the Mayor of Harrow, bringing together Harrow’s schools and community groups.


At just £3 to enter and children under 12 free (when accompanied by a paying adult), it’s a guaranteed fun day out for all the family.

Under One Sky will be held on 26 June 2011, 12pm to 8pm at Zoom Leisure, Harrow View.

Visit the Under One Sky website: www.underoneskyharrow.co.uk

For further information email: [email protected] or call: 020 8416 8167

harrow’s heritage Fact Box

The church was built to replace a smaller Saxon church, which was erected on the site of an old Roman temple.

The church was consecrated by Saint Anselm in 1094.

The church, which has stood for nearly a 1,000 years, was built with no foundations.

The Spire is covered with 12 tonnes of lead.

King Charles II described St Mary’s as ‘the most visible’ church as it could be seen from London.

The historic landmark continues to make history, chosen as Harrow’s Olympic logo for the 2012 games.

“The church itself is more than 900 years old. We have ten bells here, two of which date from 1654 and 1683. The 1654 bell was cast in a fi eld in Northolt by a famous bell maker from Watford called William Whitmore, who also made two of the bells still in use at Windsor Castle,” said Michael.

“Everytime I ring that bell I think, that’s the bell that Cromwell heard,” added Pauline. “Bell ringing does take a bit of skill, each bell has a note and we have to learn to ring the changes. It is enjoyable though. Every New Year’s Eve we will come up here, ring in the new year, then walk out on to the roof, pop open a bottle of champagne and enjoy the great

views of the fi rework display in central London.”

Michael added: “On a clear day the view is amazing! You can see as far as Blackheath to the south east and Bagshot to the south west.”

Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Harrow town centre and up a steep climb to the top of Harrow-on-the-Hill, emerges the historic St Mary’s Church and its landmark spire. Into the west doorway and up the 52 steps of the 800-year-old stone staircase to the belfry, Harrow People catches up with Michael and Pauline Chandler, bell ringers at St Mary’s, who tell us about an old English tradition.

Ringing the changes

See the view for yourself and fi nd out more about the history of St Mary’s at its Summer Fete which takes place on Saturday, 4 June from 1pm to 4:30pm, or pop along to one of its open afternoons taking place this summer on 17 July, 21 August or 18 September between 2:30pm and 5pm. A small entry fee is charged.

Become

a bell ringer

at St Mary’s

Church!

If you are interested

please phone 020

8422 2652


Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading care and research charity for people with dementia, and those who care for them, and it works towards developing new services.

The Dementia Adviser service is primarily for people with dementia, as well as their supporters and carers. It provides them with a named contact throughout their journey with dementia. Referrals can come from GPs and other health professionals as well as self-referral.

The aims of the service are:

• Provisionofaqualityinformationandsignpostingservicetailored to individual needs. This will be supported by the Society’s national and local information base.

• Focusontheindividual–empoweringthemtoaccessinformation they need, promoting independence, self-help, well-being and control.

• Collaborationwithotherhealthprofessionalstomaximisethe outcome for the person with dementia.

• Seekingoutthoseaffectedbydementiathatwehavefound traditionally hard to reach.

The service includes an initial meeting, listening and answering questions raised by the person affected by dementia, providing a plan, signposting to other local and national services as appropriate. Follow up meetings can take place which are supported by our volunteers. This service is backed by a range of Society local networks which give further support to people with dementia, carers and families.

If you are finding it difficult to access information and services I would be happy to help.

My name is Philomena Mitchell Alzheimer’s Society, The Templeton Centre, Joel Street, Northwood Hills, Middlesex HA6 1NL

Email: [email protected] Tel: 01923 823999 Fax: 01923 824329

HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT THE NEW DEMENTIA ADVISER SERVICE FOR HARROW RESIDENTS?

FEELING THE PINCH – WE ARE HERE TO HELPAre you struggling to make ends meet?

Do you need help or advice on paying your bills, cutting your debts, or finding a job?

GET HELP TODAY

Harrow Council and its partners offer a wide range of support and advice to residents and businesses to help them manage their fi nances. For example:

•Benefits

•Jobsandtraining

•Housing

Visit www.harrow.gov.uk/help to find out more.

This handy online guide covers everything from help with paying your council tax to job hunting and claiming benefits to free or low cost ways to entertain the family.

•Moneyanddebt

•Helpforsmallbusinesses

•Freeoraffordableleisureandwell-being

harrow people may 2011

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harrow weald

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carers week

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