Bexley Magazine - Spring 2010

magazine

Spring 2010

Listening to you, working for you www.bexley.gov.uk

Honour for our local army unit

May electionsIt’s in your hands

State-of-the-art CCTV

6 placesto explore

this Spring

602063 BEX MAG March 2010 Pg 1 - 7B.indd 1 08/03/2010 17:29

http://www.bexley.gov.uk

Listening to you, working for you

2

This programme has been designed to increase the numberof adults in Bexley undertaking three 30 minutes sessions of sport and physical activity each week.

On your marks, get set, row!

For more information on these and other activities at the club please contact Alison Fisher 07969 102140 [email protected]

Rowing activities for people of all ages and abilities. No experience necessary. Improve your fitness while having fun!

Winter Indoor Rowing Tuesday 6.30pm – 8pmOnly £1 per sessionat Erith Boathouse, 20 High Street, Erith.

Learn to Row ProgrammeCourses run over three weeks, with two sessions per week on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings at Danson Lake, Danson Road, Bexleyheath. £12 for the course.

Carewatch, the national provider of local homecareservices provides care and support to those who wishto retain their independence and to do so in their ownhomes. Your local branch, Carewatch Bexley cansupport you or a loved one with:

• Light domestic duties such as shopping and cleaning

• Providing friendship, reassurance and companionship

• Personal support

• Complex care, palliative and respite care

For more information please call:

020 8312 3777

20


information

From 3 November parentsand carers can apply forprimary school places inBexley for children startingin September 2009. Theclosing date will be 30January 2009.

Parents and carers are beingencouraged to apply for theirschool place online. The easyto use e-admission methodtakes parents through theadmissions process, providinglinks to each of the borough'sschools and useful informationto help them apply.

Applying on-line means thatparents and carers no longerhave to produce their CouncilTax bills at their primaryschools. A new electronicchecking system means thatthe Admissions Team can cross reference applicants'

details with Council Taxinformation. The LondonBorough of Bexley is the first borough in London to trial the new system.

Online applicants are given a secure log on and cancomplete the form in their own time, returning as manytimes as needed to makeamendments before pressing'send'. Parents can log on and check the outcome of their application.

Free internet use is available at all of the borough's libraries.Library staff are able to helpparents and carers fill in their admission forms.

To find out more visitwww.bexley.gov.uk/admissionsor contact the Admissions Teamon 020 303 7777 option 6.

It’s primary application time

602063 Page 20-21:Magazine Spread 10/11/08 09:02 Page 1


www.bexley.gov.uk

3

If you would like to know more about the services the Council provides, or would like either a translation of this document or the information in a different format, please call our Customer Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777 and press 0, quoting reference: 602063/03.10

London Borough of Bexley, Bexley Civic Offices, Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 7LB Telephone: 020 8303 7777 • Website: www.bexley.gov.uk • E-mail: [email protected] free of charge to every property in the borough • Printed by: Southern Print, on environmentally friendly paperEditorial: John Ferry (editor), Jane Parson, Pauline Rootsey, Rosie Parson and Julia Walsh Designed and produced by: Bexley Graphics Studio

Well, the long winter is nearly over and we can all start to look forward to spring, longer days and brighter skies.

It’s worth bearing in mind that Bexley is full of interesting and attractive places to explore and I hope you will take the chance to visit some of the places highlighted in our special feature on page 22 over the summer months.

I don’t want to dwell on the country’s economic woes, but you know that budgets are tight. That means we are working harder than ever to squeeze maximum value out of the money we received from the government and Council Taxpayers. Our aim is always to help make your neighbourhood and your borough a great place to live.

We are starting to make some changes to the Bexley Magazine and we will be looking to feature more of your views and your stories about life in the borough in future issues. Please take the opportunity to write or email us with any ideas and comments.

I am very pleased that we have been able to feature the news of the award of Freedom of the Borough to our local army unit on the cover. You can read more about this on page 7.

Finally, our centre page feature includes some useful information about this year’s elections.

Welcome

Cont

ents

Cover - Photograph by Stewart Turkington

Cllr Teresa O’NeillLeader of the Council

Inside your magazine

Your community 14-15News from around the borough

No vote, no voice 16-17 Elections 2010

Local history 21

What’s on in Bexley 26-27

Payback time 8

6 places to explorethis Spring 22

NEW

NEW


news


4

New CCTV service launched

Bexley’s Council Tax has increased by 1%. Councillors approved the increase to meet the extra cost of London’s Freedom Pass and compensate for the loss of nearly £1m in government funding for the scheme. Without this loss of funding, Bexley’s Council Tax would not have increased.When the Mayor of London’s part of the Council Tax is taken into account, the Council Tax paid by households in the London Borough of Bexley has increased by just 0.8%.

Despite the testing financial climate, the Council has made an

extra investment of £1m in children’s services, following the tragic circumstances of the Baby Peter case and the review by Lord Laming.

The Leader of the Council, Cllr Teresa O’Neill said: “Putting a budget together in this very difficult financial climate has not been easy. But we’ve taken firm steps to ensure that Bexley’s children and our more vulnerable residents are well

looked after, while minimising the impact on our resident’s pockets.

“We have already started work on a comprehensive review of the Council’s operations, which is designed to ensure that we can meet the needs of local people with fewer resources in the years ahead,” added Cllr O’Neill. “The review will be completed later this year and it will ensure that all our resources are focussed on the most important issues for the borough.”

The budget takes account of significant spending pressures in learning

disability services and provides further sums

for children in care.

The borough is soon to benefit from a new and improved CCTV security system. The system will help to reduce crime and secure the safety of people and places within the Borough.

Under the contract signed last year - the first of its kind with a local council - Siemens and Wilson James have designed and built, and will also staff, manage and operate, a comprehensive outsourced CCTV service for the borough.

The project has seen the development of a completely new purpose-built control room, which was set to open as the Magazine went to print. This will become the nerve centre for a comprehensive network of 240 CCTV cameras at strategic sites in the Borough, including

Budget focused on children and vulnerable residents

Festival first for Bexley!

Tokyo met Bexley in February this year when the first-ever Bexley Anime and Manga Festival (BAM) Festival came to the borough. BAM brought with it the exotic and exciting world of Japanese comics and animation, with a series of special events and cinema screenings.

The festival was a result of efforts by young people who belong to the Bexley Manga Network. Its success was such that they already hope that it will be come a regular event!

Bexley’s Manga Network meets once a fortnight at the Central Library Bexleyheath to draw Manga art and share a passion for anime, manga, cosplay and Asian pop-culture.

For more information about the Bexley Manga Network, contact Paul Fisher, Library Development Officer on 020 8309 4135 or email [email protected]

Bexleyheath, Welling, Erith, Sidcup and Northumberland Heath town centres.

Using the latest digital image recording and monitoring equipment, CCTV operators will be able to identify incidents and co-ordinate appropriate responses from a range of public sector organisations, including the police, fire and ambulance services.

Radio links between staff in pubs and shops, police officers and camera operators will also be used to further monitor criminal activity and public disorder incidents.

The contract covers the maintenance and repair of the existing camera network.

“The new contract reflects the important part that CCTV plays in the life of the borough and is very good news for our residents and for

the Council,” said Cllr Teresa O’Neill, the Leader of the London Borough of Bexley. “Siemens and Wilson James have considerable experience and we are confident that their expertise, technical knowledge and innovative approach will be of great benefit to the borough.”

“We decided to outsource the CCTV service to provide a higher level of service to our residents and to ensure that Bexley benefits from the latest recording and monitoring technology,” added Cllr Katie Perrior, the Council’s Cabinet member for Community Affairs. “The new control room is located in existing council offices, which will help to minimise costs.”

The contract will provide 24-hour 365 day a year monitoring of Bexley’s extensive network of cameras.

Budget priorities

l Protecting the Freedom Passl Investing in our town centresl Saving millions by recyclingl Giving more opportunities for

our young people to achievel Protecting vulnerable childrenl More housing choice for our

residentsl Increasing local services for older

people and those with disabilities.

looked after, while minimising the

Bexley Manga fans at one of the BAM workshops


news

www.bexley.gov.uk

5

Welcome for new AcademyThe first 180 year seven students to attend the new Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy received their offers earlier this month and will join the school in September. The students will be taught at first in state-of-the-art mobile classes while the new Academy building takes shape.

The building, due for completion in 2011, will include bright new classrooms, a four-court multi-use games area, a technology centre, social areas and a sixth form centre.

The Academy building has been designed to enhance the ‘all through’ ethos of the Academy, beginning in the existing Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Temple Grove primary section.

“We listened to concerns from parents in the north-east of the borough who were worried about the lack of accessible secondary school places,” said Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Schools, Adult Education and Youth Services, Cllr Simon Windle. “This new school is the solution to that problem. Both the primary and secondary sections have already proved to be extremely popular with parents and children.

“I feel sure that purpose-built buildings, combined with the vast educational experience that Haberdashers’ Aske’s can offer and the enthusiasm of local children and parents, will lead to this Academy being a great success for Bexley.”

join the school in September.

PlaybuildingTwenty-five of the borough’s play areas are due to be re-developed over the next year thanks to funding from a special scheme called ‘Playbuilders’. The new play areas will include art and sculpture, fun and challenging play equipment, reading corners, a maze and a secret garden and have been designed with help from the very people will make the most of the areas – local children.

The project will be launched officially at a special event in March, when children from each of the local areas will be invited to ribbon cutting events at three of the re-designed parks.

Keep an eye on local press for an update, or visit the Council’s website.

New street services

“We listened to the concerns of parents in the north-east of the borough who were worried about the lack of accessible secondary school places”

Artist’s impression of the new Academy

The borough’s new Street Services contract has got off to an encouraging start.

Contractors Serco took over the service in November and are making steady progress towards their targets of cutting the number of missed bins and improving bin placement. They are working closely with the Council to improve the efficiency of collection rounds across the borough.

This has changed the timings of some collections.

Serco are also providing a ‘graffiti busting’ team as an additional benefit, working alongside the Council’s main graffiti removal contractor, Wettons.

Looking ahead, Cllr Gareth Bacon, the Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, is hoping to launch a new ‘Community Champions’ scheme in the summer. The idea will be to recruit

volunteers in each Ward to ensure that local problems like graffiti, fly tipping and fly posting are identified and dealt with as quickly as possible. We hope to publish full details in the Summer issue of the Bexley Magazine.

Tributes have been paid to everyone involved in the borough’s response to the worst winter for over 30 years.

Serco provides the gritting service as well as the borough’s refuse, recycling and street cleaning and its staff worked around the clock with their Council colleagues to keep the borough’s main roads clear of snow and ice. The team worked hard to safeguard residents, keep transport moving while effectively managing Bexley’s salt stocks.

“I would like to pay tribute to everyone involved, including all those people who helped keep pavements and other public areas clear,” said Council Leader, Cllr Teresa O’Neill. “The weather conditions were the worst we have seen for many years and people came together to keep things moving and to keep disruption to a minimum.”

Teamwork key to tackling severe weather

To report graffiti please call 020 8303 7777 and select option 1 or email [email protected]

A young Belvedere resident enjoys the snow at Lesnes Abbey



6

environment

The London Borough of Bexley and Bexley Care Trust have launched a joint Physical Activity and Sports plan that aims to get people:

l More active - inspiring them to take part in regular activity

l More healthy - helping them understand and enjoy health benefits linked with being more active

l More successful - encouraging them to set their own goals, regardless of ability, helping people succeed in leading more active and healthy lifestyles.

With the London Youth Games fast approaching, Bexley is calling on young people aged 11-19 who are interested in competing in Europe’s largest sports event to contact the Borough Team Organiser to register their interest. For more information visit www.londonyouthgames.org or contact [email protected]

Be inspired!

Recycle your old batteriesYou can now recycle all types of household portable batteries at Council offices and libraries and at the Reuse and Recycling Centres

in Foots Cray and Thames Road.

Portable batteries are those used in most

household appliances and gadgets. Mobile phone batteries, and ones found in hearing aids and watches, are also recyclable.

The batteries will be collected by the UK’s leading battery recycling specialist, G&P Batteries, and taken to a treatment station in the West Midlands.

‘Recycler the Robot’ visited several local schools in February, encouraging children to recycle food waste, by rapping his catchy messages. It was part of a campaign to reduce food waste and to promote the best ways of disposing of unwanted food.

Cllr Gareth Bacon, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “If food waste is put in the general refuse bins, it costs a lot more to dispose of than turning it into compost. Recycling your food waste will ultimately decrease Council Tax Bills for residents and businesses.

“We wanted to get the message to all residents and Recycler the Robot was a fun way of getting our younger ones on board. They were then able to take the messages home to their parents and grandparents and really help make a difference.”

Bexley’s young CouncillorsBexley Youth Council held its annual elections in schools and youth groups across the borough last month.

Young people from 13-19 were invited to stand for the 55 places available on the Council, putting together their own manifestos and election campaigns to help win their seat. More than 3,700 young people took part in the elections.

The new members got together for their first meeting on 1 March.

For more information contact Amanda Smith, Youth Participation Development Officer at [email protected] call 020 8836 8133 or visit www.bexleyyouthcouncil.co.uk

For more information visit www.bexley.gov.uk/sports or call 020 8294 6963

You can also enter online at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexleyinbloom or by using the entry form in the News Shopper.

Spring is sprungAs spring finally comes, now is the time to start planning for this year’s free Bexley in Bloom competition.

Bexley in Bloom 2010 is open to schools, residents and businesses. Entry forms will be available from the Civic Offices Contact Centre, other Council Offices, Danson Park playground kiosk, Hall Place Visitor Centre and Nursery, Adult Education Centres, all Bexley Libraries and Ruxley Manor Garden Centre.

Cutting waste saves cash

Recycler the Robot with children from St. Michael’s

Bexley girl’s Tag Rugby team at the London Youth Games 2009

More active, more healthy, more successful!


The Council has awarded the Freedom of the Borough to the 265 (Kent & County of London Yeomanary) Support Squadron (Sharpshooters), based in Bexleyheath.

The honour is the highest that can be made by the Council. It has been awarded only twice in the 44 years since the Borough was created: to the late Sir Edward Heath KG MBE, who served as Prime Minister and represented Old Bexley & Sidcup in Parliament for many years, and to the 17th Depot Regiment Royal Artillery, who are now based in Kent.

265 (Kent & County of London Yeomanary) Support Squadron (Sharpshooters) are part of 71 Signal Regiment, whose headquarters is in Bexleyheath. The honour recognises the Regiment’s long association with the borough and the distinguished service given by its members to the borough and to their country.

Territorials from the unit and its predecessors have served in both world wars and on operations in many parts of the world, including Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan. Through its attachment to the Royal Corps of Signals, the unit provides the British Army with communications and information technology around the world, including combat situations.

Highest honour for local army unit

“It is at this time especially, when so many of our young men and women are involved in combat so far away from home, that our minds turn to our armed services and we are privileged to have such an established and esteemed unit at the very heart of our borough.”Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Bernard Clewes MBE

news

For more information on Sports Development in Bexley - including the Sporting Best programme - contact [email protected], call 020 8294 6963 or visit www.bexley.gov.uk/sports

New covered cycle shelters are making it easier to bike around Bexley. Funded largely by a grant from Transport for London, they can be found outside:

l The Contact Centre, Civic Offices, Broadway, Bexleyheath

l West Lodge Council offices, Arnsberg Way, Bexleyheath

l Howbury Centre, Slade Green Road, Erith l Hill View Council offices, Hill View Drive, Welling l Southlake Centre, Seacourt Road, Thamesmead l Foots Cray Council offices, Maidstone Road, Sidcup l Wyncham House, 207 Longlands Road, Sidcup

Bike around Bexley

More than 600 people came together in January to celebrate the achievements of young people from across the borough, at the London Borough of Bexley’s Young People’s Sports Awards 2010.

The special annual event, held at Erith Leisure Centre, welcomed young people who have excelled in their sporting field by competing at local, national or international level, or by coaching or volunteering.

Bexley’s Sporting best

www.bexley.gov.uk

7

Special guest, Sarah Winckless - rowing double world champion and Olympic bronze medallist - gave an inspiring speech and presented some of the awards.

The young gifted and talented athletes on the ‘Sporting Best Scheme’ also presented awards and medals, in their role as local sports celebrities and sporting ambassadors for the borough.

Sarah Winckless joins Bexley Sporting Best Athletes and the Mayor of the London Borough of Bexley at the Young People’s Sports Awards 2010

Photograph by Stewart Turkington



8

community safety

Community Payback is the replacement for Community Service. Courts are given the power to sentence offenders guilty of certain crimes to between 40 and 300 hours of Community Payback. The work is unpaid and demanding and it’s aimed at forcing offenders to repay the community for the wrong they’ve done.

You may have seen offenders wearing bright orange safety jackets with Community Payback written on the back around the borough.

The Council already uses the scheme for local projects, like painting railings, stencilling ‘no dog fouling’

Payback time

To make a suggestion, please call the London Probation Service on 0789 417 6943

signs on pavements and cutting back overhanging vegetation. Now there’s a chance for local residents and community groups to nominate projects that they would like tackled.

Projects can be community-based, or for the good of a charity or charitable organisation. They could involve graffiti removal, street clean-ups, rubbish removal, gardening and repair work, or even recycling projects.

Youngsters fired up for cadet challenge

Can you think of a local project that might benefit from a hard-working, supervised and unpaid labour force? If you can, it could make a great Community Payback project.

Sixteen Bexley youngsters have signed up to become Community Fire Cadets.

They will take part in Fire Brigade led activities at Erith Fire Station one evening a week for the next 18 months.

The scheme is a comprehensive education and development course aimed at 14-18 year olds, funded by the Brigade and the London Borough of Bexley. It aims to boost the cadets’ confidence, increase their fire awareness and citizenship skills.

The cadets are taught a variety of skills used by today’s firefighters and are encouraged to become fire ambassadors, teaching other young people the consequences of behaviour like arson, or making hoax 999 calls.

They learn life skills, including how to handle money, job application techniques and healthy living, as well as teamwork, communication skills and discipline. They will also have the opportunity to gain the Edexcel Level 2 BTEC in Fire and Rescue Services in the Community.

“As well as encouraging a feeling of self-worth and increasing confidence, the cadet course helps the young people who take part understand that the choices they make will shape their own futures,” explains Bexley Borough Commander Cyril O’Brien. “I’m confident that it will not only have a positive effect on the cadets, but also on the communities that the Brigade serves.”

You can access information about preventing burglary online at www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention/burglary.htm

At the beginning of March, the Council hosted a free conference that brought together a diverse group of people who share an interest in reducing and preventing burglary.

The aim of the conference was to build on the recent dramatic fall in burglary

in the borough and to raise awareness of crime prevention techniques and equipment.

I.D.

Coming together to reduce burglary

Cllr Teresa O’Neill, Cyril O’Brien and James Cleverly AM with the new Community Fire Cadets.

602063 BEX MAG March 2010 Pg 8 - 15.indd 8 08/03/2010 15:03

www.bexley.gov.uk

9

feature

Ian Hadley has lived in Blackfen for 61 years and became involved in TalkBack Bexley after he retired. He initially joined the panel to raise Blackfen’s profile in the borough.

Along with other local residents, Ian attended the first TalkBack Panel conference in January.

The event was organised to allow panel members to meet up and put questions directly to Council officers and Councillors.

Among their main concerns were the condition of our roads and pavements, parking, drivers using mobile phones, the negative portrayal of young people, standards of street cleanliness, the borough’s new recycling services and congestion caused by road works.

Council officers from each of the subject areas mingled with panel members throughout the conference, answering questions about services or putting them in contact with the right people.

The conference included a lively question and answer session with the Leader of the Council, Cllr Teresa O’Neill, the Chief Executive, Will Tuckley and Inspector Steve Duffy from the Metropolitan Police.

“If someone has an opinion it’s good to be able to take it somewhere,” says Ian. “It’s much better to voice your opinion rather than sitting at home brooding over issues. You get to put your opinion to the Council.”

“The TalkBack panel is an important tool for us and its views have changed the way the Council works,” says Cllr O’Neill. “It is an ideal way of getting a feel for what our residents think about the services we provide and other important issues affecting the borough.”

TalkBack members are asked to complete four surveys every year, either by post of by online. They are also invited to take part in discussion groups with other panel members when key projects require more detailed information.

They receive regular feedback to let them know the results of the surveys – and the difference their views make.

They can also choose to take part in a simple ‘TalkBack Text Question’ scheme.

Would you like to have your say?

Who can join the TalkBack panel? Anyone who lives in the borough and is over 18 years old can join TalkBack. To sign up, please complete the online form at www.bexley.gov.uk/talkback or contact the Consultation Team on 020 8294 6035

Win £50! We appreciate the effort made by TalkBack members. That’s why we hold a prize draw for each survey. Every member who replies by the closing date is entered. The prize is a £50 voucher.

“It’s getting better. But we’re here to talk about

uneven pavements.“

“I answer the questionnaires online. It’s good that residents get to have their say. There are always things that need

improving but on the whole the Council is doing their best. “

“Belonging to the TalkBack panel is a way of doing something positive. Today was really useful. I learnt lots

of things I didn’t know.”

Albertina Nissan and Ephraim Nissan, Welling

Moira Scotow, Welling resident since 1971

Vivienne Horwood, Blendon

“Came here today with some comments on rubbish. It is worth

becoming a member.“

Beryl Hyde, Belvedere

“You can put your two penn’orth in. If enough people say the same thing it

may make a difference.”

Victor Ashlee,Sidcup

“Only by raising big issues will anything get done. I think it was

a really useful event.”

“Gives us a voice. Somewhere to say constructively

the things we say among ourselves.”

Mollie Bromby, Belvedere

“Becoming involved in the community is a way to

make improvements.”

Tony Rodriguez, Danson

Richard Geekie, Sidcup

The newsletter from the conference is available online at www.bexley.gov.uk/talkbackconference



10


10

services

What they said…

The inspectorsl The Audit Commissionl Care Quality Commissionl Ofstedl Her Majesty’s Inspectorates

of Constabulary, Prisons and Probation

Bexley was the only borough to be awarded a ‘green flag’ for its major achievements and innovation in working with local communities to increase recycling.The accolade was part of the first Comprehensive Area Assessment of public services in the borough, based on the inspection findings of the main local services watchdogs.

It looked at how Bexley’s public services are making a real difference to improving the lives of local people.

Bexley residents had a say on how local public services were rated, because the Inspectorates took into consideration the results of the national ‘Place Survey’, completed by more than 1,300 local people.

The Council was judged as an organisation that is ‘performing well’, with many of its services among the best 25% for London and still improving.

The Survey also highlighted areas where the Council needs to improve. These will be the key focus for the Council and its partners over the coming year.

An inspector calls...

Find out more on the CQC website at www.cqc.org.uk

From April 2010 new essential standards of care are being introduced gradually across all health and adult social care services in England. The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the new independent regulator of health and adult social care, will license services if they meet essential standards and constantly monitor them to make sure they are compliant with the law.

The new system means that you can expect services to meet essential standards of quality and safety that respect your dignity and rights.

NHS trusts are the first to come into the new system.

From April 2010, for the first time, all NHS hospitals must by law be registered with CQC according to the essential standards.

Introducing new essential standards of care

End to empty property discountFrom 1 April, the 10% Council Tax discount for long-term empty properties will come to an end in the London Borough of Bexley.

The Government, the Mayor of London and Bexley are all committed to encouraging owners to sell or rent these properties out, rather than leaving them empty. This will help tackle the blight of empty homes and increase the supply of housing and means that the owners of properties that have been empty for over six months will no longer receive any discount.

Ò It has done a lot to help bring people together

by providing useful activities for teenagers to do, which is something local people are

very concerned about Ó

Ò The Council… is making improvements to its

customer services to ensure that it is more accessible to

local people Ó

Ò Overall, people’s satisfaction with Council

services remains high, particularly with things like

cultural and recreational facilities such as parks Ó

Ò The Council has made good improvements in priorities

such as helping older people live independently, reducing

crime, and increasing recycling Ó

Ò Most people say Bexley is a good

place to liveÓÒ The Council is also working well with its partners such as the

Metropolitan Police to deliver services that are important to peopleÓ


11

www.bexley.gov.uk

11

feature

Open house, open heart

For more information on Shared Lives contact the Community Living and Support Scheme Team on 020 8269 3320 or 020 8269 3319.

For the past eight years the Griffins have been involved with Shared Lives, offering local people with learning disabilities accommodation and support in their home as part of Bexley’s Community Living and Support Scheme, or CLASS. Right now they share their home with Wayne, William and Chris. William has lived with the Griffins for eight years and Wayne and Chris for three.

Debbie and Mark initially considered fostering. Both had older children and were keen to continue caring. They became interested in Shared Lives while making enquiries and, after a detailed application and assessment process, the couple welcomed their first adult with learning disabilities.

The adults come to the family for a variety of reasons. Sometimes providing respite for their own carers, other times they are taking a first step towards living independently.

Debbie and Mark make sure they involve the families of their placements in their everyday lives. Christmas dinner at the Griffins sees the house full of their own family, including grandchildren, and the families of whoever they have living with them. They even keep in touch with the families of those that have stayed with them in the past.

Mark says that anyone interested in becoming part of Shared Lives needs to be able to invite them into their house as part of the family. “It’s not a job and they are not lodgers,” says Mark. “It is a way of life.”

“The most rewarding part of being a

Shared Lives carer is seeing the change in the people that come to live with us. We have some adults come to us without any confidence and it is lovely to see them grow and become independent. Some will then move on into their own homes.”

Debbie agrees. ‘We are definitely one big family and ours is a house full of laughter. Wayne celebrates his 50th birthday this year and we shall be celebrating with him. I love having them here with us.’

Each of the men have their own bedroom with satellite tv and a

computer. The family also have a Wii and Chris says that he is particularly fond of the ten pin bowling game!

Wayne, William and Chris all have part-time jobs. William’s hobby is woodwork and Debbie and Mark have set up a workshop for him in their garden, where he makes model boats.

Shared Lives carers provide 24-hour support for their placements. Bexley’s Community Living and Support Scheme

Co-ordinator make regular visits and offer advice, support and training when needed. The couple receive a set allowance for being Shared Lives carers.

Catherine Nairn, Bexley’s Community Living and Support Scheme Co-ordinator is full of praise for the Griffins. She said; “Mark and Debbie provide excellent support to the people who share their home and are very committed to the role.”

We asked Wayne what he thought was the best thing about living with Debbie and Mark. He replied: “It is the first time I have ever known real love.”

And you can’t get much more of a recommendation than that!

From the outside, Debbie and Mark Griffin’s house in Welling looks much like any other family home in the borough. Only when you step inside do you realise that they have a very special extended family.

Left to right - Wayne, Mark, Debbie, Chris and William

‘We are definitely one big family and ours is a house full

of laughter.’

Last year the Government’s Care Quality Commission (CQC) awarded Bexley’s Community Living and Support Scheme (CLASS) ‘three stars’ and judged it to be providing an excellent service following its annual review.

S

ocial workers in the learning

disability team offer advice,

information, support and assistance to

adults with severe learning disabilities, and to their parents,

relatives, friends, or carers.

They can give help and advice on making plans (perhaps

for day or residential care), and assist at times of crisis such

as the death of a carer, serious illness in the family, or when

relationships become very strained.

For more information contact the team by email at

[email protected] or call 020 8269 3300

Social workers in the learning

disability team offer advice,

information, support and assistance to

adults with severe learning disabilities, and to their parents,

Did you

know?

Bexley Twofold is the Council’s supported employment project for adults with a learning disability who wish to take up paid employment. The team help jobseekers prepare for work by arranging college courses, work tasters, work experience and travel training. For more information email [email protected] or call 020 8298 0703

Bexley Twofold is the Council’s supported employment project for adults with a learning disability who wish to take up paid employment. The team help jobseekers prepare for work by



12


12


1212

Improving services - saving money - driving regeneration - revitalising communities

Please email questions or comments to [email protected], or call 020 8294 6199

One of the world’s leading property investment managers is now at the helm of the Borough’s main shopping centre.

LaSalle Investment Management purchased The Mall shopping centre in Bexleyheath from The Mall Corporation at the end of 2009.

Previously The Mall Corporation was appointed the preferred developer for the Bexley First redevelopment of the civic office site.

London Borough of Bexley is now in discussions with La Salle about the redevelopment. There will be an update later in the year.

Global investor at helm of shopping centre

Helping parents and children is now much easier for the borough’s Family Information Service (FIS) team.

Since the end of last year, they’ve been more able to be out in the community, giving people information to help them through the challenges of family life.

It’s been made possible by the team’s phone calls being transferred to trained customer service advisors at the borough’s Contact Centre.

FIS manager Doff Lane said: “It has freed up time to visit more schools, children’s centres and just about anywhere we can meet families with children and young people aged 0-19 years.”

FIS team member Nicola Cafferkey said: “We were out and about before, but we’ve been able to expand the service.

“For example, we’ve been able to contact primary school headteachers to ask them to invite us into schools.”

Colleague Page Stanley said: “It is better to be out meeting people. It’s a lot easier to interact with people face-to-face rather than on the phone.”

Parent Max Mann got talking to the team while at Sidcup Children’s Centre with his son A’neil, three.

He previously hadn’t been aware of the breadth of information on offer.

He said: “Having the team here is better than just having the leaflets available to pick up because sometimes as a parent you want to ask a question.”

For more information on the FIS team visit www.bexley.gov.uk. To contact the team call 020 8856 5398 or email [email protected].

FIS team get out and about

A new and improved way of letting housing association homes in Bexley will be known as Bexley HomeChoice.

A provider has been found for the system, which is expected to be introduced this summer.

Bexley HomeChoice will allow those on the housing and transfer registers to see what homes are available and to place an expression of interest or a ‘bid’.

While the system will be internet based, those without internet access will be able to see available homes and place bids using public access points, telephone and text messaging.

Housing need remains the focus under the new system so, unless your circumstances change, your priority and type of home you need will not change with Bexley HomeChoice.

It will, however, give you a chance to choose a suitable available home rather than having a home allocated to you.

You choose

Better ways to payMotorists can pay penalty charge notices (PCNs) online at www.bexley.gov.uk/parking or by phone on 020 8294 6789 (touchtone using a debit/credit card).

These easier ways to pay are part of a series of improvements to make the parking service fairer and easier to access.Payment can also be made-l By cheque or postal order, made payable to London

Borough of Bexley and sent to Parking Services, Civic Offices, Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 7LB

l If you not have access to a phone or the internet, you can use the public access computers at any of the borough’s libraries and the Contact Centre in Bexleyheath to access the online payment system.

Top - FIS officer Page Stanley speaks to parent Max Mann,

holding son A’neil

Above - FIS leaflets displayed on a visit to Sidcup Children’s Centre

Right - FIS officer Nicola Cafferkey amuses a toddler while speaking to a parent


1313

www.bexley.gov.uk

13

www.bexley.gov.uk

13

Standards Bexley is looking for people to become Independent Members of its Standards Committee, which oversees the conduct of our Councillors and helps maintain public confidence in the way we operate.

To make sure individuals are seen as separate from the Council, there are a few restrictions that prevent some people from becoming Independent Members of the Committee.

You cannot be a Councillor or employee of any local authority, nor a relative or close friend of a Bexley Councillor or employee. Also, you cannot have been a Bexley Councillor or employee within the last five years. These are non-political appointments and applicants should not hold any current political office.

Some attributes and skills expected of an Independent Member are:• akeeninterestinstandardsinpubliclife• awishtoservethelocalcommunity

and uphold local democracy • highstandardsofpersonalintegrity• theabilitytobeobjective,

independent and impartial • sounddecision-makingskills• questioningskills• leadershipqualities• theabilitytochairmeetings.

The Committee has developed a Code of Conduct and advises, trains and assists Councillors to observe it. It currently has seven Councillor representatives and three Independent Members, including the Chairman and Vice-Chairman. We are looking for applicants for the three non-Councillor members.

Meetings of the Committee are likely to be held at least four times a year, usually in the evenings at 7.30pm. There are also meetings of Assessment Sub–Committees, which deal with the initial filtering of complaints and hearings to consider the results of investigations into allegations of misconduct. There is an allowance for attending meetings and you can recover some out-of-pocket expenses. A Special Responsibility Allowance may also be paid to the Chairman.

information

Please visit www.london-fire.gov.uk/yoursafety.asp for more home fire safety advice.

Fires in the home can have a range of causes: cigarettes, candles, heaters, defective electrical equipment, as well as accidents in the kitchen.

In Bexley, a lot of fires start in people’s kitchens. Cyril O’Brien, London Fire Brigade’s Borough Commander for Bexley, told the Bexley Magazine he has seen countless homes wrecked and lives affected by serious kitchen fires. “Kitchens are arguably the most dangerous room in the house. That’s why it’s vital that everyone knows the importance of fire safety.

“In the last five years in London there were around 17,000 kitchen fires which caused injuries to over 2,000 people,” he explains. “Many of these fires happen when people are not paying attention, or when they leave cooking unattended”.

There are lots of things you can

do to ensure you don’t suffer from a fire in your kitchen. “It’s mostly about common sense,” said Commander O’Brien, “Make sure you take your pans off the heat if you’re called away from the cooker – if the phone rings, switch off your hob.

“Children shouldn’t be left alone in the kitchen and matches, lighters and pan handles must be placed well out of their reach. If you hang dish clothes or tea towels up in the kitchen, try to ensure you keep them well away from your stove and oven as they can easily catch alight.”

London Fire Brigade’s top tips on preventing kitchen fires:l Try not to get distracted when

cooking and never leave pans unattended.

l Never cook when you have been drinking alcohol.

l Never fill a pan more than one third full of fat or oil.

l Dry food before placing it in the hot oil – wet food will cause the oil to bubble up and possibly spill over the edge of the pan.

If your pan does catch fire:l Don’t move it or throw water on

to it.l Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so.l If in any doubt, leave the room,

close the door, shout a warning to others and call 999.Bexley’s firefighters also urge

local people to take steps to protect themselves in the event of a fire. “The most vital advice I can give is to make sure you’ve got a smoke alarm on every level of your home, they buy you valuable seconds to escape,” said Commander O’Brien. “I’d also recommend you plan an escape route so you know how to escape if a fire breaks out”.

You should also plan an alternative escape route in case the normal one is blocked. You must ensure your escape routes are clear of obstructions at all times and tell everyone in the house where door and window keys are kept.

Commander O’Brien said: “If our advice makes just one person take some extra precautions, or buy a smoke alarm, then it’s worth it. For firefighters it’s tragic to see the aftermath of fires that have been started by something so simple as a tea towel dangling over a hob or a pan of oil that’s overheated.

“Please take care, it could save your home, as well as your life.”

For an application write to Dave Easton, Bexley Civic Offices, Broadway, Bexleyheath, DA6 7LB or call 020 8294 6103 or e-mail [email protected] The deadline for receipt of completed forms is Friday 9 April 2010.

Fire safety begins at home

Would like to have your say on the newsand issues in your Bexley Magazine?

Just email [email protected] or write to ‘Your shout’, Bexley Civic Offices, Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 7LB. We will print the most interesting letters on a new ‘Your shout’ page in our next edition.We may not be able to print all your letters, but we promise to read them all. We reserve the right to edit your letters and emails to fit the available space.



14

community

Your community

Smartening up SidcupWork on a number of environmental improvements is now nearly complete in Sidcup Town Centre. Much of the street clutter has been removed and the footpaths are clearer and easier to negotiate. New bins have been installed and street furniture repainted. The entrance to the library has also been greatly enhanced.

Nisbett Walk has benefitted from improved lighting, signage and planting to help draw shoppers from Morrison’s car park into the High Street area.

Phase three of the Sidcup Town Area Renewal (STAR) is due to start shortly. This will be looking at ways to improve the streets and pedestrian environment in the High Street area.

Plan protects historic houseA plan to protect one of Bexley’s most treasured landmarks, the Manor House in Sidcup, is now in place.

The conservation and management plan will help safeguard the future of the Grade II listed building. Read more and see the plan at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexleyfirst

Burnt Oak Junior SchoolBurnt Oak Junior School’s extended buildings officially opened for use at the end of last year.

Thanks to Council funding the school, which has some of the borough’s oldest school buildings, has been extended and refurbished to provide a bright new sports hall, three additional classrooms and new toilet facilities throughout.

The existing school, a locally listed two-storey brick building, has been re-arranged to provide a new administration area. The project was completed with new landscaping works at the front of the school site.

Burnt Oak

Last month saw the opening of a new ‘one stop shop’ in Tavy Bridge, Thamesmead.

The shop will initially be used on a part-time basis for Council staff and as a drop - in for the Thamesmead Safer Neighbourhoods Policing Team while they are patrolling. On Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons local residents will be able to speak to community safety officers easily and informally about any concerns in their local area and access a range of information and advice. In the longer term, it is hoped that other agencies will also use the space.

The Council and its partners hope that the new shop will keep the momentum of dialogue going that has built up between residents and local agencies since the tragic murder of Moses Nteyoho in October 2009.

Abbey Wood • Belvedere • Thamesmead

Blackfen • Foots Cray • Sidcup

Local news from your neighbourhood

Upton Primary SchoolThe new school and children’s centre buildings at Upton Primary School in Iris Avenue, Bexley, will be officially opened this month.

Children will be treating their guests to a special assembly, to mark the beginning of a new era for the school.

Improved flood protectionThe London Borough of Bexley has invested more than £200,000 in a flood alleviation scheme to protect homes and businesses in the North Cray Road area of Bexley Village that were flooded during a violent thunderstorm in September 2005.

The scheme involved improving a culvert beneath the North Cray Road and building a new sewer to take highway drainage from the North Cray Road roundabout direct to the River Cray.

The new scheme will provide a significantly improved standard of flood protection.

Bexley • Bexleyheath

Sculpture choiceEarlier this year we asked residents to help us decide on the design for a sculpture to go on the roundabout between Picardy Manorway and Bronze Age Way in Lower Belvedere.

The choice was between two designs by renowned sculptor Andy Scott of Andy Scott Public Art Limited. Both choices are steel sculptures: ‘The Cob’ depicts a towering horse and ‘Strive’, emphasises the rich industrial history of Belvedere.

Consultation ended at the beginning of March and a decision was due to be taken as the magazine went to press.

The commission is part of the £10.6 million Belvedere Green Links regeneration programme, funded by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the London Development Agency (LDA).

Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/regeneration for more information.


15

www.bexley.gov.uk

community

Your community

Eastcote Primary SchoolPupils and teachers at Eastcote Primary School are delighted with their new school buildings, which were officially opened earlier this month.

The light and airy rooms and open areas are a stark contrast to the old buildings. Eastcote is one of four of the borough’s schools that have had recently opened new school buildings thanks to funding from the London Borough of Bexley.

From Spring, visitors with appointments at the Council offices at Slade Green’s Howbury Centre will benefit from more direct access to the building using a buzzer and intercom system.

All other visitors with general enquiries will be able to use the library, where customer service advisors will be able to help on a wider range of enquiries.

The changes are part of the Bexley First programme, which aims to provide better value for money and improve services.

Improvements at the Howbury Centre

Construction began on a new care home in Welling earlier this year.

The new home represents a £6 million investment in older people’s services in Bexley.

Situated in Dovedale Close, on the site of the former Dovedale Care Home, the home has been made possible through a partnership between the London Borough of Bexley, Avante Partnership and MCCH.

The home, which has yet to be

named, has been designed to meet the needs of older people with dementia. Design features include:l 80 spacious en suite bedrooms l Light and airy lounges and dining

areasl A central piazza, which includes a

café/bar, shop, beauty therapy room and guest suite

l Landscaped gardens l Balconies and terraces

The home is set for completion in January 2011.

Debbie Palmer of Welling won through against 63,000 people to be named Resident of the Year by London & Quadrant Housing Trust.

Debbie, who leads the Neighbourhood Matters youth group, was nominated by fellow residents.

She runs arts and crafts courses and works with the Bexley Community Safety Partnership and safer neighbourhoods policing team for the benefit of the community.Debbie was presented with a trophy and a cheque for £500 by television personality Vanessa Feltz.

Willows Coffee Shop at Crayford Waterside Gardens reopened last month under the new management of Bexley resident, Mr Qasim Sharif.

Watch out for new features like free Wifi, fresh coffee made by an authentic espresso machine and new varieties of confectionery.The attractions in the park include features for the whole family, an artistic canopy, an interactive water feature, a pedestrian footbridge over the River Cray, an amphitheatre and a remembrance area for quiet reflection.

Council hands over management of Willows

Crayford’s historic Shenstone Park, located on London Road, is scheduled to get a new entrance way design, while part of its existing boundary fence is also set to be transformed.

Design proposals will be put on display throughout Crayford during the Spring, giving the public the chance to vote for their favourite.

The winning design will be announced in the Summer and installed towards the end of the year.

Shenstone Park is getting a new look

Eastcote School

Welling woman scoops top award

New care home for Welling

Willows Coffee Shop

Crayford • Erith • Northumberland Heath • Slade Green

Local news from your neighbourhood

Photograph courtesy of the News Shopper

Falconwood • Welling

Most improved in the capitalTrinity School in Belvedere was named second most improved in London earlier this year.

Trinity School Headteacher, Ian Collins said: “These results represent a magnificent joint effort by pupils and staff as well as planned intervention by consultants from Education London. Trinity has encouraged and enabled every one of our young people to be successful in all aspects of their learning. We are delighted by their achievements and I would like to pay tribute to the hard work of students, to the teachers who went the extra mile, and to parents who worked in close partnership with the school.”

Trinity School students pick up their GCSE results last year

Residents in Slade Green are being asked to help shape the future of community provision in the area.

If you live in Slade Green and haven’t received a survey with this issue of the Bexley Magazine, please contact [email protected]

The consultation can also be completed online at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexleyfirst or telephone 020 8294 6904

Residents to help shape community facilities

Cllr Teresa O’Neill, Leader London Borough of Bexley; Roy Collins, Resident of Danson House Care Home; Cedric Frederick, CEO Avante Partnership


1616161616

If you don’t register, you can’t vote!

It’s as simple as that. To vote in any UK elections, you have to be on the electoral register. It’s easy to register. For details visit www.bexley.gov.uk/elections email - [email protected] or call 020 8303 7777

How can I vote?

Before you vote you will need to be registered on the Register of Electors.

You can also vote by post or by proxy

To arrange a postal vote you must be on the Register of Electors and apply in time for the election. Voting by proxy means appointing someone to vote on your behalf in your polling station. You would need to complete a form to apply for a postal or proxy vote. Contact the elections office.

The London Borough of Bexley will hold local elections this spring. A Parliamentary general election must also be held before 3 June, though the actual date has yet to be announced. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your say on how the country and your local council are run.

It’s in your hands 1

2

Where can I vote?

The traditional way to vote is at local polling station in person. Details of your polling station will be printed on your polling card. You will receive your polling card about four weeks before an election.

3

4

No vote, no voice

The last Parliamentary General election took place on 5 May 2005. The next is due by 3 June 2010 - and could be called with as little as 17 working days notice.

You can register to vote up to 11 working days before an election. Don’t leave it to chance – check now whether you are registered.

If the General and local Borough elections are held on the same day, eligible voters will receive separate poll cards for each with details of voting arrangements.

Those who vote by post will receive separate postal ballot papers.

General election*

16


environmentservices

www.bexley.gov.uk

17

www.bexley.gov.uk

17171717

www.bexley.gov.uk

17

It’s in your hands

When will my polling station be open?The polling stations are open on election day from 7am to 10pm.

5

6 Remember - people have died fighting for the right to vote…

…and be part of a democracy. By registering to vote and by voting you’ll be showing that you think that right is important!

For information on the local elections or how to register to vote visit www.bexley.gov.uk/elections email - elections.office@ bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777

March 29

Polling cards sen

t

out for Borough

Council elections

May 6

Polling Day

April 20

Last day to

register to

vote.

Deadline for

postal

vote applicat

ion

April 27Deadline for proxy vote application

April 12Publication of

Borough Council elections

candidates details

Emiline Pankhurst arrested during protest. Pankhurst was a leading British women’s rights activist, who led the movement to win the right for women to vote during the late 1890s and early 1900s.

17


181818


18


18

For further details contact Mark Taylor on 020 8294 6558 or email [email protected]

Carers’ Support (Bexley), The Manor House, Sidcup, DA14 6BY020 8302 8011 ask for Alison Baker or email [email protected]

Calling all carersCarers’ Support (Bexley), the charity that supports Bexley’s carers, is re-launching the Bexley Carers Network.Are you a carer and are you interested in –l Finding out about new

developments, locally and nationally, that could affect you and person you care for?

l Finding out about proposed new services for carers?

l Being consulted and having your say about them?

If so, join us! We will collate the views of all the

carers in the Network and feed them back to the decision-makers at local and national level. We will also let you know about the outcomes of any of these consultations.

Foots Cray Meadows is the largest public open space in the Borough, made up of the remnants of two former country estates. It is also rich in natural history, with the River

Be a friend of the MeadowsCray, Bluebell Woods and wet meadows. The Friends of Foots Cray Meadows, FFCM for short, group was set up in 2006 to bring people together to work towards common aims. These are to protect the site’s wildlife and to raise awareness of the

area, its importance and how it should be cared for. Working with the Council, the FFCM organise walks, talks and conservation tasks on the meadows, such as tree planting.

A key project is to open a Wildlife Information Centre at the site to enable visitors to learn more about the importance of the meadows. With the help of the Council the FFCM hope to open this important facility this summer. They will also be working on a new conservation project to improve the ponds and wetlands.

Sounds interesting? Then become a member and you will receive a newsletter and information on events.

To find out more call 01322 351555 or 07821 397 200

If you can’t come in, please visit www.do-it.org.uk and register online or email [email protected]

‘Parents Power’ is a support group set up and run by disabled parents in Bexley. It’s part of Carers’ Support (Bexley). It is open to disabled parents whether their disabilities are obvious or not. Marie Faulkner from Welling is partially sighted and has to rely on her husband and two children to help her with daily tasks that other non-disabled people take for granted.

“Before I found out about Parents’ Power I felt very isolated, as though I was the only partially sighted young parent in Bexley,” explains Marie.

“Parents’ Power has made a huge difference to my life and to my husband and two children. Last year we went horse riding, ice-skating, and we had a day out together at Thorpe Park, which would not have been possible without the help and support of the staff and volunteers from Parents’ Power. “

“In 2010 our aim is to help disabled parents, their partners and children to achieve a healthier lifestyle,” Chief Executive Alison Baker told the Magazine. “We are hoping to introduce exercise classes aimed at people with disabilities, and to support parents and children to attend swimming sessions and the gym.”

Volunteer Centre Bexley ‘Drop-in’

Open Tuesday & Thursday 10am-12 noon at 8 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath, and Wednesday 10am-12 noon at Central Library, Bexleyheath.

Please ring 020 8304 0911 to book your session with a trained advisor, to search for a role using our computers, or simply have a conversation to find out what volunteering in Bexley can offer you. Your requirements will be matched to suitable opportunities.

Friends of the Foots Cray Meadows

Car

ers

Corner

Parents’ Power


www.bexley.gov.uk

19

feature

191919

www.bexley.gov.uk

19

www.bexley.gov.uk

19

www.bexley.gov.uk

1919

If you would like to help with the next official count of our population, full details of employment opportunities are published on the Census 2011 recruitment website at www.censusjobs.co.uk To find out more, or to join

the Chamber, visit the website at www.selondonchamber.org or call 020 8317 3365.

Working together for Bexley

If your street is part of Neighbourhood Watch you can contact your street coordinator to get a Smartwater kit at a discounted rate of £15 plus VAT. Further details can be found at www.bexleywatch.org.uk or by calling 020 8284 5537.

Smartwater makes its mark in Bexley

Smartwater, an innovative crime reduction tool, is being used by Bexley Police and Neighbourhood Watch. The colourless liquid is used to mark valuable items of property such as jewellery, ornaments and electrical equipment and is almost impossible to remove.

Each Smartwater kit has a unique forensic code, like a fingerprint. When placed under ultraviolet light the liquid glows, revealing its unique chemical signature and providing conclusive proof of ownership.

Ultraviolet lights have been installed in the custody suite at Bexleyheath Police Station. Officers will screen all prisoners coming into custody, to check whether they have come into contact with Smartwater.

For more information, call the Bexley Care Trust Health Trainer Project Worker on 020 8303 5816 (option 5) or 07956 583 286.

Accessible minibus transport to GPs

Bexley Accessible Transport Scheme, or BATS for short, has been working with Bexley Care Trust to provide accessible door-to door transport to patients having minor procedures carried out at GP surgeries in Bexley.

Transport is booked through Bexley Care Trust, who liaise with BATS, confirming the date, surgery, patient’s name, mobility requirements, pick-up and drop-off times.

If you think that you would benefit from this service, please contact your GP to discuss the options available.

Surgeries who have patients with mobility problems can find about about accessing this service by contacting Bexley Care Trust.

Free help to get fit for summer

Bexley Care Trust’s Health Trainers are a group of community volunteers who are specially trained to help Bexley residents make healthy lifestyle changes.

The Health Trainers offer free practical support tailored to the individual’s needs and ambitions.

“During a confidential initial meeting, one of our Health Trainers will help you to create a personalised health plan and assist you to make lifestyle changes you want to make,” explains Elaine Robertson, Health Trainers Programme Co-ordinator with Bexley Care Trust.

The Health Trainers service also signposts to partner organisations and local services that can help clients make lifestyle changes.

Promoting Bexley’s businesses

Successful businesses are important to Bexley and there are many challenges for them in the current economic climate. Whatever size your business, networking regularly will keep you in touch with what’s happening in the marketplace.

The South East London Chamber of Commerce exists to promote business between its members and to provide all the signposts and help it can to enable its more than 400 members compete for business beyond its borders of Bexley, Bromley, Greenwich & Lewisham.

Partnership for Bexley Annual Conference

The Partnership for Bexley’s Annual Conference was held on 10 December. The theme was ‘The recession, now and the future.’ More than 50 partners joined together to discuss how the borough is coping in the current financial climate and to plan for the future.

Feedback from the conference was positive and can we seen on the Council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk/partnershipforbexley

The priorities identified by delegates at the conference will be used to plan the Partnership for Bexley’s work over the next year.

Do you need help with choosing your care?www.shop4carebexley.co.ukThis website has information about lots of organisations that provide care and support.

If you have difficulty in accessing the website, please call Inspire Community Trust on 01322 334716email: [email protected]

Make it countThe Office for National Statistics is responsible for carrying out a census every ten years and the next will take place on 27 March 2011, involving around 25 million households. Further information will be posted on the Council’s website over the next 12 months as we approach Census Day 2011 www.bexley.gov.uk/census2011


feedback


20


20

It’s hoped the new procedures will encourage service managers to resolve complaints quickly. If they are unable to, senior managers will step in to resolve concerns.

If complaints are not resolved at this level, the complaint will be heard by one of the Council’s Directors or the Chief Executive.

At any stage of the process, people with concerns can contact a Councillor. You can find your local Councillor through the website www.bexley.gov.uk/councillors

If you do not have access to the internet at home or work, public access computers are available in all of the borough’s libraries.

These changes do not affect the areas of the Council where statutory complaints processes need to be followed, such as social care, schools, planning and parking.

New comments and complaints processFeedback processes at London Borough of Bexley have been overhauled to encourage a speedier resolution of complaints.

See www.bexley.gov.uk/complaints for more information.


history

www.bexley.gov.uk

21

www.bexley.gov.uk

21

All our yesterdays

Events programmeBexley’s Local Studies and Archive Centre organises a wide range of events throughout the year.A range of local historical talks are held at the Local Studies and Archives Centre and at Hall Place during the winter. During the summer there are walks conducted by local historians around local areas.

‘‘The sandy-haired acrobat’’Thanks to Charlton Athletic Football Club, a fantastic collection of photographs, press cuttings and other football memorabilia, that charts the career of Addick’s goal keeping legend Sam Bartram, has been deposited with Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre.

Sam Bartram played for Charlton from 1934 to 1956 and made a record-breaking 579 appearances for the club. In those 22 years he helped The Addicks rise from the old Third to the First Division and to compete in two successive FA Cup Finals. Although they lost the

1946 final to Derby County 4-1, Charlton went on to

win the 1947 final, when they beat Burnley 1-0, after Erith resident Chris Duffy scored the only goal.

Sam Bartram did not win any full international caps, though he did play for the England B team. The Sam Bartram Collection also includes programmes and photographs of the England B team’s post war tours to Australia, the USA and South Africa.

In partnership with Charlton Athletic Community Trust, Bexley Archives have applied to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to preserve the Sam Bartram Collection and to make it accessible to local people through a series of events in Bexley libraries and in local schools.

Bexley Archives are always keen to work with the community to promote the Borough’s heritage.

They are currently engaged in a Heritage Lottery Fund ‘Young Roots’ project with Erith-based community group, SERLS Friendship. Some 40 young people will interview local

people, including those who settled in the area from Eastern Europe, about their experiences as children during World War Two.

The group will create a touring exhibition, artwork and a website to illustrate how children lived in Erith and Eastern Europe during the War.

Archives onlineIf you can use a computer, you can access Bexley’s archives, local studies, library and illustrations catalogues online.If you don’t have a computer or internet access at home, don’t forget that you can get free access from the computers inside every Bexley library.

There are more than 300,000 entries in the catalogues, including -l Picture collection including

more than 2,300 postcards l London Borough of Bexley

historical records l Parish records, including

registers l Bexley schools’ archives l Business records l Estate papers

l Local studies library book, pamphlet and map collections, including the subject index to local newspapers (1965–to the present) You can also perform a

combined catalogue search of the archives, library and local studies books, newspapers and pamphlets.

All our yesterdays‘‘The sandy-haired acrobat’’

Promoting Bexley’s heritage

Sam in action

Sam (front row second left) with his England teammates

For further information visit www.bexley.gov.uk/archives New items are added to the catalogue on a regular basis. If you have a research enquiry or have comments on the online catalogue, please email [email protected]

To find out more visit the Centre on the first floor of the Central Library in Bexleyheath, ask at your local library or visit www.bexley.gov.uk/archivesevents


environment

22


places to explore this Spring

1

2

34

56

The Thames PathThe Thames Path and cycle route runs from Crayford

Ness and the River Darent, to Erith and Thamesmead, along the southern bank of the River Thames.Walking along the Path will not only get you fit – it will also give you a unique view of the north of the borough and its wildlife.

A colour leaflet is available from local libraries on the full 9¾-mile walk from Crayford Ness to Crossness and on to the Thames Barrier. It includes a detailed map and information on key attractions and points of interest along the route.

Lesnes AbbeyLesnes Abbey is one of London’s hidden treasures. It contains

the remains of Lesnes Abbey, which was founded by Richard de Luci in 1178. The nearby Lesnes Abbey Wood has a wide range of wildlife habitats, plants

and flowers. There are self-guided trails which take you through valleys containing hornbeam trees, wild flowers such as figwort and dogs mercury, open heath land and ornamental gardens. www.bexley.gov.uk/lesnesabbey

South East London Green Chain WalkThe Green Chain Walk is an extensive network of walks

through the dozens of woodlands and open spaces across south-east London. Its 10 sections, together with numerous spurs and links, are a delight to explore, with many possible combinations and opportunities for circular walks.

The three sections of the walk through Bexley are: Thamesmead to Lesnes Abbey (2.2 miles), Erith to Bostall Woods (3.3 miles) and Bostall Woods to Oxleas Meadows (2.7 miles).www.greenchain.com

Red HouseThe internationally significant home of the founder of the Arts &

Crafts movement, William Morris, now owned by the National Trust.The house was designed in 1859 by his friend, the architect Philip Webb, and strongly influenced by Gothic medieval architecture. There is a delightful and

peaceful garden, plus a tea room and shop.

Pre-booked guided tours in the morning. No need to book for afternoon visits with free audio guide(1.30pm - 4.30pm)Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London DA6 8JF 020 8304 9878 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/ w-redhouse

Shuttle RiverwayThe Shuttle Riverway is a 5.75 mile walk which starts at the Green Chain Walk in

Avery Hill Park and continues eastwards to Hall Place where it links to the London Loop/Cray Riverway. Where possible, the route follows riverside walks, but it also uses woods, parks and some linking roads.www.bexley.gov.uk/shuttleriverway

Have we missed any of your favourite places to visit when the sun and the daffodils are out? Please email your suggestions to [email protected]

Leaflets on all the locations featured here are available from Bexley libraries or from the local Tourist Information Centre at Hall Place, Bexley.Bexley Tourist Information Centre01322 558676

Free access to the internet is available at all Bexley libraries.

Danson House Danson House will be reopening to visitors from 1 April. Visitors to this enchanting Georgian villa in the heart of the borough can enjoy the magnificently restored rooms and being taken back in time to 1766. The house is set in peaceful gardens within Danson Park. The action-packed programme of events includes lectures, demonstrations, tastings, Family Days, open air theatre and even open air cinema!Danson House, Danson Park, Danson Road, DA6 8HL0208 303 6699 www.dansonhouse.org.uk

6


environmentcommunitynews

www.bexley.gov.uk

Your Local Health ServiceNewÊ NHSÊElectronicÊPatientÊ RecordsDuring the next year, the NHS is introducing Summary Care Records, an electronic summary of key patient health information, which will enable doctors to gain immediate access to vital information, wherever and whenever patients are treated.Summary Care Records will hold limited essential information derived, initially, from the patient’s GP records. This information will only be available to authorised healthcare staff.Over time, the NHS may add details about health issues, summaries of your care and the professionals who treat you to your summary care record.A letter has been sent to everyone registered with a GP in Bexley, outlining the plans. If you do not wish the NHS to create a summary care record for you, please fill in the form available at http://www.london.nhs.uk/noscr or ring 0845 603 8510. Please return the form to your GP before 31 May 2010

For more information, please visit www.nhscarerecords.nhs.uk/summary

DoÊ youÊ visitÊ yourÊdentistÊ regularly?We all know that regular visits to the dentist are important. But did you know the time between check-ups will depend on how healthy your mouth, teeth and gums are at different stages of life? This can alter as your health and lifestyle changes. NHS dentistry is available to everyone in Bexley. To access NHS dental treatment in Bexley, contact a practice providing NHS dentistry and ask for an NHS appointment. When you have been accepted for treatment, you will then be a patient of that dentist for the duration of your course of treatment. A list of dental practices in Bexley can be found at www.bexley.nhs.uk If you think you need urgent treatment, contact your dental surgery on the usual number. If you do not have a regular dentist, you can always get urgent care or be treated out of hours if necessary. Some patients are eligible for free treatment. The charge other patients pay depends upon the treatment – most courses of treatment cost £16.50 or £45.60 – but you should only ever be asked to pay one charge for each complete course of treatment.

For more information, you can download the NHS Dental Services in England brochure from www.dh.gov.uk/dentistry. If you need help accessing an NHS dentist, please contact the Bexley Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) helpline Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0800 328 9712, or email [email protected].

An accident or sudden illness can affect anybody – but how do you decide whether to go to Accident and Emergency or to an Urgent Care Centre?

The general rule is that if you are able to ‘walk in’ then you should head to the Urgent Care Centre at Queen Mary’s Hospital in Sidcup, which provides treatment for patients who have conditions which are urgent, but not life threatening. Urgent cases include worsening of a fever, sore throat, vomiting, bumps and bruises, fractures and cuts. Many chronic illnesses can be seen, treated and discharged from the Urgent Care Centre, although some patients may be transferred to A&E. In these cases, it is likely they will be admitted to hospital. Serious cases treated by A&E include heavy bleeding, deformed fractures and chronic sickness.

WhereÊ toÊ goÊ forÊurgentÊ careÊ

Someone with central chest pain or a suspected stroke should call 999.Serious cases are referred from the Urgent Care Centre to A&E at Queen Mary’s when it is open, between 8am and 8pm. If it is later, these patients are taken by ambulance to another hospital. Around 100 patients are seen each day, and most of these are seen within an hour. In fact, most are seen within a few minutes. An expert team of emergency GPs, nurse practitioners, assessment nurses and health care assistants look after patients. The centre also gives advice over the phone about any worries people may have about their general health.

‘Open wide: A young boy gets a check-up’

The Urgent Care Centre is at the front of the Accident and Emergency department at South London Healthcare NHS Trust, Queen Mary’s site, Frognal Avenue, Sidcup. Tel. 020 8302 2678 ext. 5613.

23


environment


24


24

all ages * all faiths * all races * businesses * community & residents’ groups * emergency services * voluntary groups

Bexley Community Policing Engagement Group

F u n d e d b y t h e M P A

Do you have views on -

Policing within your ward & in Bexley generally? Crime and disorder?

Licensing? Personal safety? Traffic enforcement? General policing matters such

as Hate Crime and Burglary?

Yes? Then please come along to a quarterly open public meeting of BCPEG. The next public meeting will be held at Bexleyheath School, Woolwich Road on Wednesday 9th June 2010 from 7-30pm until 9-30pm. Refreshments will be provided. Meetings thereafter are scheduled for the 22nd September 2010, 24th November 2010 and 9th March 2011, timings will remain the same although the venue may change. All meetings are advertised in the Bexley Bulletin and on our web site.

The Bexley Community Policing Engagement Group – z Is a committee of volunteers who care about

their community. z Has been at the forefront of police and community

engagement for more than 20 years. z Is involved in everything from supporting the Safer

Neighbourhood Panels to challenging the Police and local authority at Borough level.

z Receives reports from the Borough Police Commander on policing matters and provides a forum where he can answer questions from members of the public.

z Offers a forum where all sections of the community have a voice and can be heard.

z Needs more diverse representation of the Borough’s population.

z needs local community groups to join its drive to ensure that Bexley remains one of the safest London boroughs”

For an information pack, or to discuss BCPEG’s work please contact Peter, the Committee’s Administrator.Phone 020 8304 2300Email – [email protected]


environmentnews

www.bexley.gov.uk

25

Local informationYoUR CoUNCILLoRS

The London Borough of Bexley is divided into 21 wards, each of which is represented by three local ward Councillors.To find out which ward you live in, or for up-to-date details of how to contact your local Councillors or members of the Council’s Cabinet, please visit www.bexley.gov.uk or call 020 8303 7777

March 2009

CouncilMembers

For further information call 020 8303 7777 or visitwww.bexley.gov.uk


If you would like to know more about the services the Council provides, or would like either a translation of this document or the information in a different format, please call our Customer Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777 and press 0, quoting reference: 552860/3.09


552860 Photo sheet A5 2009:4 page A4 16/3/09 09:33 Page 1

LoCAL MPSDavid Evennett MP (Bexleyheath & Crayford)

Surgery: First and third Friday of each month (except August)-First Friday 4.30-6.30pm, at 17 Church Road, BexleyheathThird Friday 5-7pm, at Crayford Town HallTo contact David Evennett write to: House of Commons, Westminster, SW1A 0AA, e-mail [email protected] call 020 7219 8403 (House of Commons) or 020 8303 4695 (Local Office) or visit www.davidevennett.org.uk

John Austin MP (Erith & Thamesmead)

John Austin MP holds regular advice surgeries at Erith and Thamesmead and his staff hold advice sessions during the week by prior appointment. To contact John Austin write to: John Austin MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, call: 020 7219 5195, fax: 020 7219 2706, e-mail: [email protected] or visit his website at www.epolitix.com/john-austin

Derek Conway MP (Old Bexley & Sidcup)

If you wish to contact Derek Conway MP for Old Bexley & Sidcup please write to him at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA or email to [email protected] or by telephone 020 7219 8122 or 07515 419080.

London Assembly Member

James Cleverly AM (Bexley & Bromley)

To contact James Cleverly write to: James Cleverly AM, Greater London Authority, City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 2AA, call: 020 7983 4354 (City Hall), fax: 020 7983 4419, or e-mail: [email protected]

Normal Day Revised Day

Monday 5 April Tuesday 6 AprilTuesday 6 April Wednesday 7 AprilWednesday 7 April Thursday 8 AprilThursday 8 April Friday 9 April Friday 9 April Saturday 10 April

Easter refuse & recycling

USEFUL LoCALNUMBERS

Age Concern 020 8300 0883/5576Childline 0800 1111Citizens Advice Bureau 020 8303 5100Consumer Direct 08454 040506Dial a Ride 0845 999 1 999Environment Agency 0800 807 060 Family Planning/ Sexual Health 01322 357 953 Floodline 0845 988 1188Job Centre plus 0845 601 6916Lost dogs and cats hotline 0901 477 8477NHS Direct 0845 46 47Police – non-emergencies 0300 123 1212Queen Mary’s Hospital 020 8302 2678Report a gas leak 0800 111 999RSPCA 0870 5555999Samaritans 08457 90 90 90Thames Water 0800 714 614Transport for London 020 7222 5600

Victim Support 020 8303 1248

THEATRES

Geoffrey Whitworth Theatre Crayford01322 526390www.thegwt.org.uk

Playhouse Theatre, Erithwww.playhouse.org.uk01322 350345 (Box Office)

Edward Alderton Theatre, Bexleyheath020 8303 3131 (Box Office open 6-8pm)www.edward-alderton.ukf.net

Old Barn Theatre & Theatre in the RoundRose Bruford College, Sidcup020 8308 2616

Good Friday 2 April all collections will take place as normal. There will be no collection on Easter Monday 5 April.

Normal arrangements resume Monday 12 April All waste and recycling collections during the week commencing 5 April will be one day later than normal.

Mini recycling banks

Our mini recycling centres throughout the borough are particularly busy over holiday periods.

If the banks are full please take your recycling home, they will be emptied as soon as possible.

Please remember to use all of your recycling containers at home.We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Here to helpIf you have any queries regarding these arrangements or your waste / recycling remains uncollected, please call the Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777 option 1.

NEW BExLEY BUSINESS GUIDEThe Council has launched a new guide with details of more than 2,300 local businesses.

The new ‘Bexley Business Guide & Directory’ has been compiled and published by Burrows Communications Ltd. It comes in a CD-ROM format, accompanied by a printed full colour guide to advertisers and information about local support available for businesses. A search only version will be available on-line at www.burrows.co.uk/bexley.

As part of its efforts to help businesses through the current downturn, the Council is making 1,000 copies of the basic version of the CD-ROM available free - apart from postage and packing - to businesses based in the Borough. Upgrades are also available from Burrows for a set fee. Reference copies are available to view at the Borough’s libraries and at the Thames Innovation Centre.

For more information or to order a copy of the CD-ROM please contact the London Borough of Bexley’s Economic Development Unit on 020 8308 7726.

UNDER THE LoCAL GoVERNMENT AND PUBLIC INVoLVEMENT IN HEALTH ACT 2007, WE ARE REQUIRED To CHANGE oUR CURRENT SYSTEM oF ExECUTIVE GoVERNANCE.

In November the Council resolved to operate the ‘new style’ Leader and Cabinet form of executive. The new executive arrangements will be put into practice from the third day after the local government elections in 2010 (ie Monday 10 May 2010). The existing form of leader and cabinet executive will continue to operate until that time.The main features of the arrangements are:• The Leader will be appointed by the Council and hold office for a four year term• The Leader will be responsible for appointing the Deputy Leader and other Cabinet Members and for determining their portfolios• The Council may, by resolution, remove the Leader during his or her four year term of officeThe Council also resolved to amend the Council’s Constitution to give effect to the changes. The amended constitution will take effect from 10 May 2010.For more information, you can read the relevant reports to the Cabinet and Council at:

www.bexley.gov.uk/democracy and by choosing the right hand links.

Alternatively you can inspect the agendas and minutes relating to the 13 october 2009 Public Cabinet meeting and the Extraordinary meeting of the Council that took place on 4 November 2009 at the Civic offices, Bexleyheath.


environmentnews


26


26

business

MARCHTuesday 23 March - 11am Flower arranging demonstration with lunch by Graham HarmerDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLNew Beginnings - a collection of spring designs for everyone’s home. All tickets in advance £20 per personBooking Line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Wednesday 24 March 2.30pmCostumed Victorian TourHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQAn afternoon tour with a costumed guide that explores what Hall Place would have been like in the late 19th century. All tickets in advance £6 per personBooking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Saturday 27 March 10am - 4pmAncient Woodworking Techniques - Bexley Archaeological GroupBexley and Sidcup Conservative Club 19 Station Road Sidcup DA15 7EBA one day workshop on understanding ancient woodworking techniques led by Dr Damian Goodburn of the Museum of London. Admission: £[email protected]

Sunday 28 March 11am - 4pmWedding FairsHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQHall Place is a beautiful location for a wedding – come and see the historic house as a venue and find everything else you need to plan your special day all under one roof. Free admissionwww.hallplace.org.uk

Sunday 28 March Bexley Record FairThe Freemantle Hall, Bexley High Street, Bexley (opposite British Rail Station) Enquiries 01322 330631

APRILEaster Monday 5 April 11am - 3pmEaster EggstravaganzaHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQHave lots of fun with the Easter Bunny at Hall Place and Gardens. Including craft activities to make and take away, garden trail (with chocolate prizes) and the famous egg-Olympics at 12.30pm and 2pm!All tickets on the day £4 per child. www.hallplace.org.uk

MAYSunday 2 May - 11am - 5pmSpring Plant fair - runs until Monday 3 MayHall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQThe early May Bank Holiday sees the Hall Place spring plant fair to set your garden on the right road for the new season. You’ll find expert advice and an abundance of quality plants, ornaments and equipment for sale. Admission Freewww.hallplace.org.uk

Sunday 9 May - 11.30amSummer Sundays House ToursHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQTour the Grade I listed house with a knowledgeable guide and find out more about the fascinating history of Hall Place, a house built by the former Lord Mayor of London, Sir John Champneys in 1537. All tickets in advance £6 per personBooking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Monday 10 May - 11am Lectures with Lunch: From Bordeaux to Bexley: The Dawn of DansonDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLFor this special lecture, Daniel McGill of the Ballycastle Historical Research Group will travel from Northern Ireland to give an account of how the Boyd family came to build Danson in the 1760s. His talk will be illustrated with portraits and documents which record the family’s participation in the 18th century triangular trade, the source of their wealth – sugar and slaves. All tickets in advance £20 per person Booking line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Tuesday 11 May - 11am - 2.30pm - tour of the houseFlower arranging demonstration with lunch by Jane PattersonDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLAn array of refreshing contemporary and traditional flower designs.All tickets in advance £20 per person Booking line: 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Saturday 15 May - 10am - 5pm Monday to Saturday 11am - 5pm Sundays and Bank Holidays100 Years of Guiding in Bexley exhibition - runs until 20 JuneHall Place House, Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQAn exhibition to mark the centenary of Girlguiding UK and showcasing 100 years of Guiding in the London Borough of Bexley. Admission Free

Tuesday 18 May - 11amLecture with Lunch: Profiting from Trade with the East: Thomas Cheap of the Honorable East India Company - John White, in character and costumeDanson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLThomas Cheap desires inclusion in that most exclusive of social groups – the gentry. In the trade-funded Danson House, surrounded by objects and furniture of the time, listen as he charts the highs and lows of his quest for equality and inclusion with the nobility of the era.All tickets in advance £20 per personBooking Line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Tuesday 18 May - 7.30pm Evening Talk: Archaeology at Embassy Court, Welling: Danson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLAn informal talk with Paw Jorgensen of Pre-Construct Archaeology on the findings from the excavations at Embassy Court, Welling. Paw discusses findings such as postholes that may have been part of a roadside building related to the settlement along the Roman road of Watling Street and the cremation burials and grave cuts found on site. All tickets in advance £6 per personBooking line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Wednesday 19 May - 11amLecture with Lunch: The King’s Servants: The Tudor TailorHall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley. Kent DA5 1PQThis talk examines the look of Henry’ VIII’s early household, the typical wardrobe of a man at the time and how dress demonstrated the differences between ranks. Following the lecture in the Great Hall, a two course buffet lunch will be served in the Tudor Kitchen. After lunch, there will be a tour of the historic house with a knowledgeable guide and an opportunity to view the new museum galleries. All tickets in advance £20 per person. There will be a limited number of ‘lecture only’ tickets available (no lunch or tour included) £10 per personBooking Line 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Local events - March to June 2010For a list of regular events throughout the borough, go to the Council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk

Tuesday 13 April - 11amLecture with Lunch: Constable: A Walk on the Wild Side by Rosalind WhyteDanson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLAn exploration of the work of John Constable. All tickets in advance £20 per person Booking Line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Tuesday 13 – Thursday 15 April - 10.30am and 2pmEaster Holidays - Unwrap the Egyptian cat ‘Meow-cat-mun’Hall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQJoin the education team to make your own ‘Bast’ Egyptian cat glove puppet. Afterwards, learn more about the fascinating Egyptians in our new exhibition in the house – you can even see a real mummified cat!All tickets in advance £3 per child per one hour sessionBooking line 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Thursdays 15 April - 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) Delectable Sweet TreatsDanson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLIndulge in five delicious puddings, from traditional favourites to modern classics, all home-made and all totally irresistible!All tickets in advance £19.50 per personBooking Line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Saturday 17 April 10am - 1pmGrand Spring Charities FairBelvedere Baptist Church, 50 Nuxley Road, Upper Belvedere VillageAssociation of Bexley Charities 1978 Grand Spring Fair. Twelve local charities selling a variety of goods including antiques and collectables.Admission free 32 Iris Crescent, Bexleyheath020 8310 5018

Tuesday 20 April - 11amLecture with Lunch: William Hogarth and the Modern Moral Subject - Alan ReadDanson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLA talk examining William Hogarth’s satirical prints ‘The Harlot’s Progress’ and ‘Marriage a la Mode’ and their importance for Hogarth’s life and art.All tickets in advance £20 per personBooking Line 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Friday 23 April 7.30pm until midnightMayor’s charity dinner and dance in aid of Demelza HouseMarriott Hotel, (Applegarth Suite) Broadway, BexleyheathThe Mayor and Mayoress of Bexley, Cllr Bernard and Mrs Edna Clewes invite you to join them at their fund-raising dinner and dance to raise funds for Demelza House. Four course meal and raffle. Dance the night away to the 60s and 70s chart-topping band Chicory Tip£40 per personCheques made payable to the ‘Mayor’s Charity Appeal 2009/10’ can be sent to Room 122, Civic Offices Broadway Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 7LB020 8294 6153/6102Email to reserve tickets: [email protected]

Sunday 25 April - 10 - 3pmBexley Record FairThe Freemantle Hall, Bexley High Street, (opposite BR Station) Enquiries 01322 330631

Monday 26 April - 11am Flower arranging demonstration with lunch by Robin WhiteDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLCome and be inspired to make the most of seasonal flowers at Danson House. All tickets in advance £20 per personBooking Line:01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Tuesday 27 April - 11am 2.30pm tour of the houseLecture with Lunch: The Danson House organ by Dr William McVickerDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLAn exploration of the organ, its builder and the music that would have been played on it is presented by Dr William McVicker, Organ Curator at the Royal Festival Hall. All tickets in advance £20 per person 01322 621238www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Wednesday 28 April - 2.30pmCurator’s ToursHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 1PQJoin the Bexley Heritage Trust Curator for tours that explore the new museum galleries at Hall Place. This is your chance to ask questions about the current Bexley Collection displays and to find out what it takes to look after museum objects. Numbers strictly limited to 25 per group. Book early to avoid disappointment. £6 per person.Booking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk


26


environment

www.bexley.gov.uk

27

www.bexley.gov.uk

27

Local events - March to June 2010

A variety of sports courses are being held at school sites across Bexley during the holidays designed for children aged from 5-15 years. Courses are run by fully qualified coaches and provide an introduction to sports for those that have not played before or an opportunity to progress existing skills.

Over in Danson Park tennis lessons for both adults and juniors will also be running throughout the year, with courses for four -16 year olds taking place during the Easter Holidays.

Staying at Danson, Bexley’s Splash Park Events Programme starts again this Easter with the first event confirmed as an Egg Hunt and Face Painting on 6 April. The events programme will also run every week throughout the Summer Holidays at both Danson and Belvedere Splash Parks.

Holiday fun in the libraryThere is also plenty to do in Bexley’s libraries this Easter, so why not bring along the kids and join in some of our fantastic activities?

Thursday 20 May - 7.15pmTalk on the Red House by Patrick JoelLocal Studies and Archives Centre, Townley Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJPatrick Joel will be describing the history of Red House and the William Morris connection. Red House was built for William Morris and his wife Janey in 1859-60. The property is currently owned by the National Trust. Tickets for events must be purchased in advance and can be obtained from Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre.Townley Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJAdmission: £3.50

Monday 31 May (Bank Holiday) - 11am-5pmForties Festival Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley. Kent DA5 1PQCelebrate the spirit and resilience of 1940s Britain with us. Hall Place was an intercept station for the Enigma Project and housed the 6811th US Army Signal Corp. It’s 65 years since the GIs left Bexley and we wanted to remember their time here with a day of activities for all the family.Join us during the day for family craft activities, ‘Dig for Victory’ in the gardens, see Forties fashion – you can even come in costume to add to the atmosphere of the day! See military and civilian vehicles in the gardens, meet re-enactors and join in with informal dance sessions in the Great Hall where you can learn to jive, jitterbug and much more! Plus a traditional jazz quartet will be playing and refreshments will be available throughout the dayOn the day: Adults £7, Children (16 and under) £5In advance: Adults £6, Children (16 and under) £401322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Monday 31 May (Bank Holiday) - 6pm-9pmGI Jive Swing Dance Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley. Kent DA5 1PQThe Great Hall will be buzzing in true 1940s style for this traditional swing dance, where we’ll be playing the best music from the decade. Fantastic demonstrations by professional dancers will inspire you to get up and have a go, so a troupe of dancers will be on hand to teach you popular classics such as the jive and jitterbug. 1940s style buffet included in ticket price. Bar available.All tickets in advance £16 per person01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

JUNEThursday 3 June - 7.15pmBartram, Blitz and Beyond - Charlton Athletics’ wartime experiencesLocal Studies and Archives Centre, Townley Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJCharlton season ticket holder and historian, Peter Daniel, will give an illustrated talk based on CAFC’s famous goalkeeper Sam Bartram and the story of Charlton Athletic during World War Two. Admission: £[email protected]

Sunday 6 June - 6pm (doors open at 5.30pm)‘Children should be seen but not heard’ with Mr Mackett, A Victorian School MasterHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQMr Mackett is the school master in the local village school, where he teaches all subjects to all the children, regardless of their age. He is a strict disciplinarian and expects good behaviour at all times! We welcome John White, in character and costume for a passionate and enlightening look at Victorian school life. Suitable for adults and children 8 years and over.All tickets in advance £10 per person (tickets include a soft drink on arrival)Booking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Wednesday 9 June - 2.30pmGlorious Gardens TourHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQExplore our inspirational herbaceous borders, enclosed gardens and topiary with the Hall Place Estate Manager for a tour of the formal gardens that surround the Tudor mansion.All tickets in advance £6 per personBooking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Sunday 13 June - 12.30pm and 2pmDanson House Family Sundays - Mad Hatter’s Tea PartyDanson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLThese family days are the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful house and gardens with your family. For the first time we will have themed games for families throughout the day in the private Danson House gardens and old fashioned sports day races at 12.30pm and 2pm. The tea room will be offering special picnic baskets for adults and children’s packed lunch boxes to enjoy in the gardens, so bring along your picnic rugs and enjoy Danson with a difference!Special discounted entry price £4.50 per person. .Accompanied children in family groups FREE.Normal opening hours apply.www.dansonhouse.org.uk

Sunday 13 June - 11.30amSummer Sundays House ToursHall Place Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQTour the Grade I listed house with a knowledgeable guide and find out more about the fascinating history of Hall Place, a house built by the former Lord Mayor of London, Sir John Champneys in 1537. All tickets in advance £6 per personBooking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Thursday 17 June - 7.30pmShakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream - by the Chapter House Theatre Company Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQEnjoy open-air performances in landscaped gardens against the backdrop of the vibrant red brick and white stone of Hall Place. Bring a low backed chair or rug to sit on and a picnic to enjoy before or during the performance. Admission: Adults £12, Concessions £10, Children (5-16yrs) £8, Under 5s free Booking line: 01322 621238www.hallplace.org.uk

Sunday 27 June - 11am to 5pm: last entry at 4.15pmDanson House Family Sunday: Teddy bear’s picnicDanson House, Danson Road, Bexleyheath DA6 8HLThese family days are the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful house and gardens with your family. For the first time we will have themed games for families throughout the day in the private Danson House gardens The tea room will be offering special picnic baskets for adults and children’s packed lunch boxes to enjoy in the gardens, so bring along your picnic rugs and enjoy Danson with a difference!Special discounted entry price £4.50 per person.Accompanied children in family groups FREE.Normal opening hours apply.www.dansonhouse.org.uk

For Local Studies eventsBooking information: Tickets for events must be purchased in advance and can be obtained from Bexley Local Studies and Archive Centre (see right hand menu for contact details)Booking by post: Please write in and clearly state the name and date of the event you wish to book. Cheques should be made payable to London Borough of Bexley and a stamped addressed envelope should be provided. Note that tickets are non-refundable. Send your ticket order to: Talks and Events, Bexley Local Studies

For a list of regular events throughout the borough, go to the Council’s website at www.bexley.gov.uk Sports, events and activities in the Easter holidays!

Bexley’s Big FREE WeekendThe dates for the Danson Festival 2010 have been confirmed as Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 July. If you have the talent, this could be your chance to perform and maybe even become a local celebrity into the bargain.

If you would like to unleash your talent on the world, drop the organisers a line with details of your particular skill. If you have a web link, CD or DVD they would like to have a look at that as well.

If you have a product or service to sell, the Danson Festival is the perfect opportunity with prices to suit all budgets. A number of cost effective sponsorship packages are also available.

For more information visit www.bexley.gov.uk/sports or call: 020 8294 6992 for sports courses at school sites or 020 8294 6188 for Danson Park tennis courses and Splash Park events

For more information, call into your local library or ring 020 8303 7777 option 4 or visit www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries

To get involved send an email to [email protected] or visit www.dansonfestival.co.uk

27


environment

Listening to you, working for youListening to you, working for youListening to you, working for youListening to you, working for you

28

To add your organisation to this list, or to update your contact details please e-mail [email protected] or telephone 020 8303 2818

A Academy Photographic Group 020 8310 9218Age Concern BexleyGrassington Road, Sidcup 020 8300 0883Alzheimer’s Society Bexley Branch 01322 334245Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 020 8310 5018Assyrian Community of Kent 01322 331711Arts Council of [email protected] 020 8301 5806

B 107 (Bexleyheath) Army Cadet ForceTA Centre, Watling Street Bexleyheath DA6 7QQ 0798 272 1926Bexley & Bromley AdvocacyUnit 2, 241 Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6QS www.bbadvocacy.org 020 8300 9666 Bexley & Greenwich Resource for Alcohol108 Bellegrove Road, Welling 020 8304 6588Bexley Accessible Transport Schemewww.bexleyct.co.uk 01322 311333Bexley African Caribbean Community Association PO Box 369, Welling DA16 3SD [email protected] 07946 497731Bexley Archaeological Groupwww.bag.org.uk 020 8300 1752Bexley Associations of Disabled PeopleInspire Community Trust, 20 Whitehall Lane, Slade Green 01322 350988Bexley Association of Turkish [email protected] 07908482700 Bexley Borough Pensioners Forum 020 8304 1749Bexley Care Trust221 Erith Road, Bexleyheath 020 8298 6000Bexley Centre for the UnemployedPincott Hall, Christ Church, Broadway, Bexleyheath, DA6 7BT 020 8301 3187Bexley Civic Society020 8304 1819 Bexley Council for Racial EqualityLibrary Building, Walnut Tree Road, Erith 01322 340316Bexley Cruse Bereavment Care 020 8304 5245Bexley, Dartford & Darenth Valley Branch Cats Protectionwww.bexleycatsprotection.co.uk 01322 611911/330250Bexley Deaf Centre20 Whitehall Lane, Slade Green, DA8 2DH Fax/Minicom 01322 339428 [email protected] SMS 07918 881524 01322 351122

Bexleyheath & District Club for Disabled 020 8303 4826 or 020 8303 1177Bexley Heritage Trustwww.dansonhouse.org.uk www.hallplace.org.uk www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk (Danson House) 020 8303 6699 (Hall Place) 01322 526574Bexley Historical Societywww.bexleyhistoricalsociety.co.uk 020 8303 0544Bexley [email protected] 01322 336973Bexley ME Support Group 020 8303 8553 Bexley Moorings Project www.bexleymoorings.co.uk [email protected] Neighbourhood WatchBelvedere Police Station 2 Nuxley Road, Belvedere 020 8284 5537Bexley Next StepErith Town Hall(Friday) Central Library (Mon-Wed) 07747471539Bexley SNAPSt Augustine’s Primary School, St Augustine’s Road, Belvedere www.bexleysnap.org.uk 020 8311 6777Bexley Talking Newspaper 01322 445293Bexley Tinnitus Support Group 01322 525769Bexley Town Twinning Association www.btta.org.uk [email protected] TwofoldCivic Offices, Bexleyheath 020 8298 0703Bexley Turkish Elderly Day CentrePop-In Parlour, 27 Bellegrove Road, Welling, Kent [email protected] 0208 306 6736Bexley Voluntary Service Council8 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath www.bvsc.co.uk 020 8304 0911Bexley WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) [email protected] 020 8300 1845Bridging the Gap South EastSupporting Adults with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder www.btgse.co.uk 020 8302 2890/ 020 8300 5444British Polio Fellowship (North West Kent Branch)[email protected] 01322 400182

C

Care Partners TrustYorkshire House, 110-112 Broadway, Bexleyheath DA6 7DQ Tel: 020 8303 0900Carers’ Support BexleyManor House, Grassington Road, Sidcup 020 8302 8011

Citizens Advice Bureau (Bexleyheath & Welling)8 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath 020 8303 5100Citizens Advice Bureau (Erith) 50 Pier Road, Erith 01322 357933Complementary Cancer Care Trustwww.ccctrust.org.uk [email protected] 01322 524079Connexions198-200 Bexley Road Northumberland Heath, DA8 3HF 01322 342725Connexions Prospects233 Broadway, Bexleyheath www.connexions.gov.uk 020 8301 3900Crayford and District Probus Club VCD Athletics Club Old Road Crayford alternate Wednesdays at 9.45 am. 020 8306 1075 Crayford Manor House Historical & Archeological [email protected] 01322 551279Crossroads Care [email protected] www.crossroadscarebexley.org.uk

D Danson & District Amateur Camera Clubwww.ddacc.org.uk 020 8303 9825Danson Youth [email protected] www.dansonyouth.org.uk 020 8303 6052 Diabetes UK Bexley Support Group 020 8302 2446Douglas Macmillan Cancer Information ServiceQueen Mary’s Hospital Sidcup DA14 6LT 020 8308 3295

E, F, G Erith Model Railway Societywww.erithmrs.ukmodelshops.co.uk 01322 223947Friends of Danson Park 020 8311 1351Friends of the Earth - Bexleywww.foe.co.uk/bexleyFSU Thamesmead2 Maran Way, Erith [email protected] 020 8310 6570Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Bexley Branchwww.guidedogs.org.uk [email protected] 01322 614416Greenwich & Bexley Community Drug Agency1c Woolwich New Rd, SE18 6EX 020 8316 0116

H, IHaven - Gay and Lesbian Social Group [email protected] 01322 287356 / 07961 446785

Headway South East London/ North West KentBostall House, Goldie Leigh Hospital, Lodge Hill, Abbey Wood, SE2 0AY 020 8319 7148Hurst Horticultural & Garden Society [email protected] 020 8306 2376 Independent Custody Visitors Panel Recruiting - 07765 241936Inspire Community TrustDisability Information and Services Independent Living Centre information@inspire community trust.org 01322 341638

J, L, M

Junior Reds Football Club Bexleyheath and Cleeve Park Schools www.juniorredsfc.co.uk 0208 858 0133/ 07905 264157 Lamorbey & Sidcup Local History Society www.lam-sid-lhs.co.uk 020 8302 7820 MIND In Bexley283 Broadway, Bexleyheath 020 8303 5816MND AssociationNorth West Kent Branch www.mndassociation.org 01322 228169 Multiple Sclerosis Society - Bexley & Dartford Branch 020 8306 7050

N, O, P

New Community Debt Advice Service24 Station Road, Sidcup debtadvice@new communitychurch.org.uk 020 8269 8627Old Bexley Music Society 020 8306 0353Parkinson’s Disease Society (Bexley & Dartford branch)www.parkinsons.org.uk 020 8303 8971Photo Digital Clubwww.photodigitalclub.co.uk 07762 221909

Q, R

Queen Mary’s Cardiac Support GroupQueen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup 020 8302 6383Rainbows, Guide or Ranger Groups 020 8301 1200 or 01322 294516

S

Samaritans 020 8301 1010

Shopmobility Scheme The Mall, Upper Car Park West Level 3 The Broadway, Bexleyheath 020 8301 5237Sidcup and District Caledonian AssociationScottish Country Dancing Hurst Community Centre [email protected] 01689 838395Sidcup Literary & Scientific Society 020 8300 8647Signpost Community Drug & Alcohol TeamErith Health Centre, 50 Pier Road, Erith, DA8 1RQ 01322 357940The Scout Associationwww.scouts.org.uk 0845 094 6368 or 0845 300 1818SSAFA Forces Help [email protected] 020 8639 0495Stillbirth And Neonatal Deathwww.kentsands.com 07951 454682

T

Thamesmead Law Centre4 Cross Street, Erith, Kent, DA8 1RB 020 8311 0555Thames Innovation CentreVeridon Park, 2 Veridon Way, Erith DA18 4AL [email protected] 020 8320 1000Townswomen GuildMeet on 3rd Wednesday of each month at 2pm at the Scouts Hall, Mayplace Road West, Bexleyheath

U, V, W

United Nations Association (Bexley) 01322 331711University of the Third Age Bexley (U3A) 01322 556876 Victim Support (Bexley)53 High Street, Welling 020 8303 1248Volunteers Information Service (VIS)12 Pier Road, Erith 01322 347 492Welling Alcohol Service Provision3 Central Avenue, Welling , DA16,3AX. [email protected] 020 8303 2818Women’s Aid Helpline 020 8301 1536

Local organisations

Local OrganisationsFinal.indd 1 05/03/2010 14:41602063 BEX MAG March 2010 Pg 16 - 32.indd 28 08/03/2010 17:14

AAdoption/fostering 01322 356330 01322 356367Adult education 020 8300 1056Allotments 020 8294 6494Arts 020 8294 6958

BBarnehurst Golf Course 01322 523746Benefits - Council Tax/Housing 0845 302 3200Bexley Emergency Link Line (BELL) 020 8294 6479Bexley Magazine 020 8294 6222Bird College -Dance, Music & Theatre Performance 020 8300 6004Bexley Twofold (learning disability employment project) 020 8298 0703Bexley Youth Advice 020 8301 3900Births, deaths & marriages 020 8308 7515Ceremonies Line 020 8308 7509Blind, services 01322 344827Blue badges 01322 344823Bus passes 01322 344823Business advice 020 8320 1000

CCar parks/lorry parks 020 8294 6172Care Partners Trust 01322 625100Carers Services Team 01322 338582Careers service 020 8301 3900Cemeteries 020 8294 6534

Census information 020 8294 6037Child abuse/protection 01322 356302Childminders 020 8856 5398Commercial premises 020 8308 7723Connexions 020 8301 3900Consumer Direct 08454 040506Council meetings/Councillors 020 8294 6705

DDangerous buildings 020 8308 7881Deaf/hard of hearing 01322 344811Drug & Alcohol Team 020 8294 6686

EEconomic 020 8308 7726Development Office 020 8308 7728Electoral Services 020 8294 6144Ethnic Minority Achievement Service 020 8836 8255Parent Partnership 020 8836 8450Sensory impairment 01322 344823(hearing/vision) 01322 344811Energy Advice Centre 0800 512 012

F Family Information Services 020 8856 5398Fraud Investigation Team 01322 356073

GGrants: Sports 020 8294 6963

H Halls for hire/lettings 020 8294 6205Hall Place 01322 526574Handy person service 01322 559615Home help 01322 625100Homelessness 020 8294 6131Housing advice 020 8294 6131Housing associations Orbit (office & repairs) 0800 6781221London & Quadrant (office) 020 8557 2830(repairs) 0800 015 6536Housing register 020 8294 6199Housing related support (Supporting People) 020 8294 6288Historic buildings 020 8308 7785

IInformation (general) 020 8294 6705Interpreting and Translation Service 01322 356462

L Licensing 020 8308 7672/3Local land charges 020 8308 7850Listed buildings 020 8308 7785

M Mayor’s office 020 8294 6153Members of Parliament 020 8294 6705Mental Health TeamsBexleyheath Centre 020 8301 9400

Erith Centre 01322 356100Museum Service 01322 526574

N Nature conservation 020 8294 6558Neighbourhood Services 0800 389 5013

P Parking Complaints 020 8294 6172Fines 020 8331 5871Permits/season tickets 020 8301 5200Ticket queries 020 8294 6172Physical disabilities 01322 356363Publications 020 8294 6223Public relations 020 8294 6222

R Residential care 020 8836 8144Road safety 020 8308 7875 020 8308 7753

SSchools:Education welfare 020 8836 8445Exclusions 020 8836 8424Governor training 020 8836 8414Psychology service 020 8836 8473Special educational needs 020 8836 8451Traveller education 020 8836 8281Skip permits 020 8294 6593Social Services:Adult 01322 356363West Child care team 020 8320 6300East Child care team 020 8294 6627

Sports CentresCrook Log 020 8304 9090Erith 01322 350271Sidcup 020 8302 0556

Sport and leisureLeisure services 020 8294 6963

Outdoor pitches/courts 020 8294 6188

T Tax - Council 0845 3023200

Tax - business rates 020 8315 2076

Tourist information 01322 558676

Town Centre developmentBexleyheath 020 8308 7779Crayford 020 8308 7725Erith 020 8308 7778Sidcup 020 8308 7785Welling 020 8308 7785

Town planning 020 8308 7992

Traffic 020 8308 7906

U V W Unitary Development Plan 020 8308 7782

Visual Impairment 01322 344827

Voluntary services 020 8304 0911 020 8304 0912

Y Youth centres (General) 020 8836 8235

Youth Training Scheme 020 8304 8527

Option 1Abandoned vehiclesBulky waste collectionsFly tippingHighway & pavement faultsLitterPlay parksRanger servicesStreet cleansingStreet lighting

Waste & recyclingWinter maintenance

Option 2Air pollutionContaminationFood safetyHealth & safety at workInfectious diseasesNoise complaints

Telephone service options

Visit us on the internet at www.bexley.gov.ukEmail [email protected] our Contact Centre on 020 8303 7777Contact Centre opening hours 8:30am-5pm Monday - FridayEmergencies (24 hours) 020 8303 7777

Pest controlWater quality

Option 3Business RatesCouncil TaxCouncil Tax benefitHousing BenefitsRecovery

Option 4Library book renewalsLibrary opening timesLibrary book searchesLibrary PC bookings

Option 5Building ControlListed buildingsLocal Development Framework

PlanningPlanning enforcement & appealsPlanning policy

Option 6Free school mealsSchool admissionsSchool appealsStudent loans/grantsUniform grant Selection tests

Bexley at your fingertips www.bexley.gov.uk

A - Z of council servicesIf you need to know about a Council service, this is the place to start

For a large print version of this A-Z call 020 8294 6327


28

To add your organisation to this list, or to update your contact details please e-mail [email protected] or telephone 020 8303 2818

A Academy Photographic Group 020 8310 9218Age Concern BexleyGrassington Road, Sidcup 020 8300 0883Alzheimer’s Society Bexley Branch 01322 334245Association of Bexley Charities ‘78 020 8310 5018Assyrian Community of Kent 01322 331711Arts Council of [email protected] 020 8301 5806

B 107 (Bexleyheath) Army Cadet ForceTA Centre, Watling Street Bexleyheath DA6 7QQ 0798 272 1926Bexley & Bromley AdvocacyUnit 2, 241 Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6QS www.bbadvocacy.org 020 8300 9666 Bexley & Greenwich Resource for Alcohol108 Bellegrove Road, Welling 020 8304 6588Bexley Accessible Transport Schemewww.bexleyct.co.uk 01322 311333Bexley African Caribbean Community Association PO Box 369, Welling DA16 3SD [email protected] 07946 497731Bexley Archaeological Groupwww.bag.org.uk 020 8300 1752Bexley Associations of Disabled PeopleInspire Community Trust, 20 Whitehall Lane, Slade Green 01322 350988Bexley Association of Turkish [email protected] 07908482700 Bexley Borough Pensioners Forum 020 8304 1749Bexley Care Trust221 Erith Road, Bexleyheath 020 8298 6000Bexley Centre for the UnemployedPincott Hall, Christ Church, Broadway, Bexleyheath, DA6 7BT 020 8301 3187Bexley Civic Society020 8304 1819 Bexley Council for Racial EqualityLibrary Building, Walnut Tree Road, Erith 01322 340316Bexley Cruse Bereavment Care 020 8304 5245Bexley, Dartford & Darenth Valley Branch Cats Protectionwww.bexleycatsprotection.co.uk 01322 611911/330250Bexley Deaf Centre20 Whitehall Lane, Slade Green, DA8 2DH Fax/Minicom 01322 339428 [email protected] SMS 07918 881524 01322 351122

Bexleyheath & District Club for Disabled 020 8303 4826 or 020 8303 1177Bexley Heritage Trustwww.dansonhouse.org.uk www.hallplace.org.uk www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk (Danson House) 020 8303 6699 (Hall Place) 01322 526574Bexley Historical Societywww.bexleyhistoricalsociety.co.uk 020 8303 0544Bexley [email protected] 01322 336973Bexley ME Support Group 020 8303 8553 Bexley Moorings Project www.bexleymoorings.co.uk [email protected] Neighbourhood WatchBelvedere Police Station 2 Nuxley Road, Belvedere 020 8284 5537Bexley Next StepErith Town Hall(Friday) Central Library (Mon-Wed) 07747471539Bexley SNAPSt Augustine’s Primary School, St Augustine’s Road, Belvedere www.bexleysnap.org.uk 020 8311 6777Bexley Talking Newspaper 01322 445293Bexley Tinnitus Support Group 01322 525769Bexley Town Twinning Association www.btta.org.uk [email protected] TwofoldCivic Offices, Bexleyheath 020 8298 0703Bexley Turkish Elderly Day CentrePop-In Parlour, 27 Bellegrove Road, Welling, Kent [email protected] 0208 306 6736Bexley Voluntary Service Council8 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath www.bvsc.co.uk 020 8304 0911Bexley WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) [email protected] 020 8300 1845Bridging the Gap South EastSupporting Adults with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder www.btgse.co.uk 020 8302 2890/ 020 8300 5444British Polio Fellowship (North West Kent Branch)[email protected] 01322 400182

C

Care Partners TrustYorkshire House, 110-112 Broadway, Bexleyheath DA6 7DQ Tel: 020 8303 0900Carers’ Support BexleyManor House, Grassington Road, Sidcup 020 8302 8011

Citizens Advice Bureau (Bexleyheath & Welling)8 Brampton Road, Bexleyheath 020 8303 5100Citizens Advice Bureau (Erith) 50 Pier Road, Erith 01322 357933Complementary Cancer Care Trustwww.ccctrust.org.uk [email protected] 01322 524079Connexions198-200 Bexley Road Northumberland Heath, DA8 3HF 01322 342725Connexions Prospects233 Broadway, Bexleyheath www.connexions.gov.uk 020 8301 3900Crayford and District Probus Club VCD Athletics Club Old Road Crayford alternate Wednesdays at 9.45 am. 020 8306 1075 Crayford Manor House Historical & Archeological [email protected] 01322 551279Crossroads Care [email protected] www.crossroadscarebexley.org.uk

D Danson & District Amateur Camera Clubwww.ddacc.org.uk 020 8303 9825Danson Youth [email protected] www.dansonyouth.org.uk 020 8303 6052 Diabetes UK Bexley Support Group 020 8302 2446Douglas Macmillan Cancer Information ServiceQueen Mary’s Hospital Sidcup DA14 6LT 020 8308 3295

E, F, G Erith Model Railway Societywww.erithmrs.ukmodelshops.co.uk 01322 223947Friends of Danson Park 020 8311 1351Friends of the Earth - Bexleywww.foe.co.uk/bexleyFSU Thamesmead2 Maran Way, Erith [email protected] 020 8310 6570Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Bexley Branchwww.guidedogs.org.uk [email protected] 01322 614416Greenwich & Bexley Community Drug Agency1c Woolwich New Rd, SE18 6EX 020 8316 0116

H, IHaven - Gay and Lesbian Social Group [email protected] 01322 287356 / 07961 446785

Headway South East London/ North West KentBostall House, Goldie Leigh Hospital, Lodge Hill, Abbey Wood, SE2 0AY 020 8319 7148Hurst Horticultural & Garden Society [email protected] 020 8306 2376 Independent Custody Visitors Panel Recruiting - 07765 241936Inspire Community TrustDisability Information and Services Independent Living Centre information@inspire community trust.org 01322 341638

J, L, M

Junior Reds Football Club Bexleyheath and Cleeve Park Schools www.juniorredsfc.co.uk 0208 858 0133/ 07905 264157 Lamorbey & Sidcup Local History Society www.lam-sid-lhs.co.uk 020 8302 7820 MIND In Bexley283 Broadway, Bexleyheath 020 8303 5816MND AssociationNorth West Kent Branch www.mndassociation.org 01322 228169 Multiple Sclerosis Society - Bexley & Dartford Branch 020 8306 7050

N, O, P

New Community Debt Advice Service24 Station Road, Sidcup debtadvice@new communitychurch.org.uk 020 8269 8627Old Bexley Music Society 020 8306 0353Parkinson’s Disease Society (Bexley & Dartford branch)www.parkinsons.org.uk 020 8303 8971Photo Digital Clubwww.photodigitalclub.co.uk 07762 221909

Q, R

Queen Mary’s Cardiac Support GroupQueen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup 020 8302 6383Rainbows, Guide or Ranger Groups 020 8301 1200 or 01322 294516

S

Samaritans 020 8301 1010

Shopmobility Scheme The Mall, Upper Car Park West Level 3 The Broadway, Bexleyheath 020 8301 5237Sidcup and District Caledonian AssociationScottish Country Dancing Hurst Community Centre [email protected] 01689 838395Sidcup Literary & Scientific Society 020 8300 8647Signpost Community Drug & Alcohol TeamErith Health Centre, 50 Pier Road, Erith, DA8 1RQ 01322 357940The Scout Associationwww.scouts.org.uk 0845 094 6368 or 0845 300 1818SSAFA Forces Help [email protected] 020 8639 0495Stillbirth And Neonatal Deathwww.kentsands.com 07951 454682

T

Thamesmead Law Centre4 Cross Street, Erith, Kent, DA8 1RB 020 8311 0555Thames Innovation CentreVeridon Park, 2 Veridon Way, Erith DA18 4AL [email protected] 020 8320 1000Townswomen GuildMeet on 3rd Wednesday of each month at 2pm at the Scouts Hall, Mayplace Road West, Bexleyheath

U, V, W

United Nations Association (Bexley) 01322 331711University of the Third Age Bexley (U3A) 01322 556876 Victim Support (Bexley)53 High Street, Welling 020 8303 1248Volunteers Information Service (VIS)12 Pier Road, Erith 01322 347 492Welling Alcohol Service Provision3 Central Avenue, Welling , DA16,3AX. [email protected] 020 8303 2818Women’s Aid Helpline 020 8301 1536

Local organisations

Local OrganisationsFinal.indd 1 05/03/2010 14:41

www.bexley.gov.uk

29

www.bexley.gov.uk

29

www.bexley.gov.uk


28


HADFIELD & COSOLICITORS

Business Affairs

Employment Law

Civil & Commercial Litigation

Divorce & Family Law

Residential & Commercial Conveyancing

Wills, Probate & Powers of Attorney

FIXED FEE INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE

020 8301 0808email: [email protected]

602063 Page 28-29 :Magazine Spread 6/11/08 13:49 Page 1


3030


31

www.bexley.gov.uk

31

www.bexley.gov.ukwww.bexley.gov.uk


Blazing Fires● Modern & Traditional Fireplaces● Wide Selection on Display● Site Survey & Fitting Service● Friendly Advice

020 8850 4887257 Eltham High Street

Eltham, London SE9 1TY

Blazing Fires:Blazing Fires 15/5/09 15:39 Page 1

Low-cost,serviced offices,tailored to your needs

Serviced offices

Business support

Meeting & training rooms

IT software testing lab

Call 020 8320 1000 or visit www.tic-london.co.uk

Thames Innovation Centre, helping you grow your business

Bex

ley

Gra

phic

Stu

dio

Pro

duct

ion

6020

63/1

1.08

Vicarage Road, Bexley, Kent DA5 2AWTel: 020 8300 3947, Fax: 020 8309 7275

Mount Mascal Stables Ltd

Mount Mascal Stables has beenestablished in Bexley Village since 1965.We are the only Riding Centre in theborough to be approved by the BritishHorse Society and the Association ofBritish Riding Schools. We also cater fordisabled children and adults with physicaland learning difficulties.

We specialise in personal and group tuition for all agesand all degrees of experience.

We offer selected horses and ponies and trainedconsiderate staff who will advise you on your progress

through our structured training programme.For the leisure rider we have hacking in Joydens Wood.

We do fun days for kids in school holidays and offer exceptional value birthday specials and

vouchers for that horsey present.

Call us for further information and price guide

Tel: 020 8300 3947www.mountmascalstables.co.uk

Blazing Fires● Modern & Traditional Fireplaces● Wide Selection on Display● Site Survey & Fitting Service● Friendly Advice

020 8850 4887257 Eltham High Street

Eltham, London SE9 1TY

Carlton Cars and CouriersEstablished in 1966. Market leader in all minicab services. Officially licensed by London’s Public Carriage Office. Airport, Station, Hospital Transfers and normal day to day Minicab journeys.

Cars, Estates, Executive services and an active fleet of MPVminicabs available (6 seaters, 7 seaters etc).

We have a Fully Computerised GPS Tracked Fleet, we provide a fast, efficient and reliable service.

For passenger and parcel services call

020 8303 2222Drivers call

020 8303 8000

HA

RE

NC

SC

HO

OL

www.harencschool.co.uk

New Beginnings

For a complimentary information pack telephoneMrs Carole Hughes on 020 8309 0619or e-mail [email protected]: Miss Susan Woodward B.A.Church House, 167 Rectory Lane, Foots Cray, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5BU

Established in 1983, Harenc School offers a firstclass preparatory education for boys aged 3-11

We are currently recruiting pupils for 2009 and 2010

A family atmosphere and commitment toindividual attention means boys leave schoolconfident, happy and ready for the challenges of their further education

602063 Page 32:601043 Pages 36 6/11/08 15:01 Page 1


Date post:	12-Mar-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	peter-davies
View:	218 times
Download:	1 times

Bexley Magazine - Spring 2010

Documents