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April 2019 Bulletin

News, Events and Activities

Windmill Gardens – Beer & Bread Festival 

This will be the next major event in Windmill Gardens, open between 1 pm and 5 pm on Bank Holiday Monday, 6 May.
Brixton Windmill itself will now be open for tours one weekend a month until October – for dates and bookings, see the Friends website, www.brixtonwindmill.org 

Events at Impact Brixton

The Hub at the back of Pop Brixton has an ongoing programme of training sessions and workshops, mainly to support those getting small enterprises underway.  Free or discounted rates for those who are already members of the Hub. Two notable sessions are coming up on Thursday 25 April:

Overcoming barriers on the way to success, 2 pm to 3-30 pm, non-members £5, free to members, workshop led by Vegard Olsen as part of the Business Helpdesk series.

The Mom Test – How to talk to customers and learn if your business is a good idea when everyone is lying to you,6-30 to 8 pm, non-members £15, members £5, a talk based on Rob Fitzpatrick’s bestseller. Register athttps://themomtest.eventbrite.co.uk

For more events, see their website, www.brixtonimpacthub.net or enquiries to Tamara Amarquaye on (020) 7926 3032 or e-mail tamara@impactbrixton.com

Creative Community Placemakers Network

A network covering Creatives, Artists, Performers, Designers, Placemakers and Community groups is being developed by Jacqueline Bleicher of Global Urban Design.  She has organised a meeting to explore the idea on Tuesday 30 April, 6 pm to 7 pm at the Basement level of Lambeth Town Hall, 1 Brixton Hill SW2. If interested, please register via Eventbrite on www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-community-placemakers-network-tickets-59300768194
or e-mail to enquiries@globalurbandesign.org or call 07 570 438 977.

Brixton Community Base

Under the banner of Common Ground, Brixton Community Base has launched a new series of classes for over 55s.  All Classes are free and held at Brixton Community Base in Talma Road, SW2 1AS.  To sign up, contact Jane on 07 941 624 247 or e-mail to brixtoncommunitybase@gmail.com
Topics include:
Drama Workshop, Saturdays 20 & 27 April, 10-30 am to 12-30 pm, Arts & Crafts, Thursdays from 2nd May, 2 pm to 3 pm;
Yoga, Thursdays from 30 May, 2 pm to 3 pm.

Youth Connect Careers Event

A reminder that We Rise is holding monthly careers events, each focussing on a different field of work, in conjunction with Business Launchpad.  Each is at International House, Popes Road, SW9, between 5 pm and 7 pm.  These are aimed at Lambeth-based 16-18 year-olds, to help them explore different careers and build conections with professionals in those fields.  Enquiries to: hello@werise.org.uk
Next up are:
– Tuesday 14 May –  Health & Sport, 
– Tuesday 4 June – Finance & Tech.

Support the Remakery!

A familiar story around Brixton these days is of landlords jacking up rents and thereby pricing out familiar traders and community organisations.  More disappointing though when it’s Lambeth Council adopting the greedy landlord approach. The Remakery, below Council flats on the corner of  Lilford Road and Paulet Road, is facing a rent review in July, with the threat of its annual rent increasing from £6,000 to £40,000 a year – hardly realistic when the whole turnover of the organisation is only £28,000 a year.  It looks unlikely that a commercial business would want to take over this remote location.


The Remakery – or Lambeth Re-use Centre –  was set up a few years ago, with Council support, to encourage recycling of unwanted objects into resaleable goods, and to help people learn practical skills.  Once again a grassroots project appears to be the victim of the Council losing interest once the novelty wears off.

Were you around back in 1971?

An unusual request from a documentary film company, On The Corner Films:  They are producing a documentary series focussed on the music, culture and politics of the year 1971. They are particularly keen to track down home movie footage, particularly of people playing or listening to music, or at music festivals or carnivals. See also their website, www.onthecorner.tv


If you (or your granny!) have anything to share, contact Natalie Fiennes on 07 986 559 115 or e-mail to natalie@onthecorner.tv

Community Business Weekend – 16/19 May

Do you run a Community Business? Want to find new customers, volunteers or members? This event can showcase your impact and provide free marketing support (and some bunting).  Word came to us via Locality but the event is organised by Power to Change – more details at their website, www.powertochange.org.uk

Your Views on Events in Parks and open spaces – reminder

We discussed this at our last meeting on 1st April, and the main concerns expressed were:

– Large areas of public open space are being taken out of use for long periods so commercial events can be staged on them.

– Although this is supposed to be to raise money, finances are not transparent about how much comes back to that park, or to Lambeth parks generally.

– These events cause damage to grass and paving from heavy vehicles, concentrated footfall and temporary structures. There is not enough time between events for the ground to recover.

– Noise disturbance to people living around the park, particularly from entertainment events.

– Community-based events are discouraged by the demand from commercial events, and by cumbersome booking arrangements designed for bigger events.

Have we missed anything?  We encourage you to respond directly to the Council – see www.lambeth.gov.uk and follow the links to the Consultations page. The closing date for comments is Sunday 5 May.

Funding, Support and Training opportunitiesLambeth Wellbeing Fund projects

Last year we published details of this grant programme, and it’s good to see several local projects now being supported from Round 3, including Brixton Community Base, Community Education Foundation/ Lyncx, Moorlands Community Development Project, The Remakery and Ubele.  A few examples are mentioned in this bulletin, or the previous one.  More recently, Friends of Brixton Tate Library were awarded funding for a series of Tai Chi sessions at the Library on Saturday mornings, starting in May.

Introduction to Computer Skills Course

Just about to start at Mosaic Clubhouse, 65 Effra Road, SW2 – assessment session on Wednesday 24 April, 11 am to 1 pm.  Course will run from Wednesday 1 May until 10 July, 11 am to 1 pm at Mosaic Clubhouse.  The course will cover key computer skills including e-mail, web search and basic Microsoft programs Word and Excel.  You will gain a City & Guilds Functional ICT qualification.  This course is free to Lambeth residents on benefits.  Enquiries to Sinead on (020) 7924 9657 or s.obrien@mosaic-clubhouse.org

Tech Mates at Pop Brixton

For older residents, Pop Brixtonhosts introductory sessions on computers, smartphones and IT on Thursday mornings, 10 to 11 am.  Equipment is provided but feel free to bring your own phone, laptop or tablet – particularly if you are struggling with how to make it work! This free class is led by Pop member, KHK Technology, who supply refurbished IT equipment to schools and other organisations.  NB – limited to 6 places per session, sign up through the Pop Brixton website or enquiries toinfo@popbrixton.org

First Aid Skills Day for over 50s

Another event at Pop Brixton in Brixton Station Road – St. John’s Ambulanceare holding a free First Aid Skills session (with lunch!) on Thursday 23 May, 11 am to 2-30 pm. The aim is to build up a network of first aid champions among local community groups.  For enquiries or bookings, contact Rosie on 07 896 969 869 or e-mail to rosie.mcgloughlin@sja.org.uk

Achieving Life Balance Workshop

Wise Women Wellness presents a free self-development programme, Sista Self-care Coaching Circle, for a small group of women to learn the 6 life domains, set goals and boost confidence in a supportive coaching group.  Sessions over 7 weeks at the Eurolink Centre, Effra Road, SW2, the first on Saturday 27 April, 9-30 am to 4 pm, then on Tuesday evenings.  Supported by the Ubele Initiative and funded via LCF.  To book, call Sharon Brooks on 07 973 825 255 or e-mail toinfo@wisewomenwellness.org.uk

Lambeth Larder Resources Directory

Lambeth Larder started with a church-based group in Kennington in 2015, trying to map community food resources. When the pilot scheme ended, they decided their online map was too useful a resource to let go, so they managed to find more funding to expand the project and also publish paper copies of their Directory, a 20-page free guide to food banks, advice centres and other support groups.  Lambeth Larder now works in partnership with Brixton Advice Centre, and last year its resources reached 35,000 people around the borough. Enquiries to info@lambethlarder.org or to download the directory, go to the web pages below.

In fact there are several strands of information about health services, advice and community contacts to be found by exploring the revamped Public Health web pages within the Lambeth Council website: Start from www.lambeth.gov.uk/adult-social-care-and-health/your-health

Volunteers Wanted!

Loughborough Farm (on Loughborough Road, opposite Wyck Gardens) is hosting a Welcome session for new and prospective volunteers on Saturday 27 April from 1-15 pm. This will include a tour of the space and an introduction to how it is run. The session will last about an hour, but you are welcome to stay for the tea-break afterwards. Regular volunteering is an opportunity to pick up or refresh basic gardening skills, such as sowing, transplanting, composting and harvesting. Please book your place by e-mail to Emily at loughboroughfarm@gmail.com

If your project needs volunteers for certain tasks, why not advertise your needs in our next bulletin?

Measnwhile, national charities are not hesitating to ask.  News just in from Keep Britain Tidy that they are seeking volunteers (over 18) for their Litter Heroes Ambassador Programme, for people who want to get their communities involved in litter-picking and improving public spaces for all.  Applications are open until Monday 6 May. For more information contact LHAmbassador@keepbritaintidy.org

Directory of Social Change

We continue to receive occasional updates from the Directory of Social Change about their funding directories, charity management handbooks and training courses. For more details about all of these, see their website at www.dsc.org.uk 

Keeping in Touch

Forum Meetings

We are currently trying to firm up a couple of informal meetings to plan Forum activities through 2019.  You are all welcome to attend the next General Meeting of the Forum – it has been booked for Thursday 27 June, 6-45 pmat the Vida Walsh Centre, 2b Saltoun Road, SW2 (facing onto Windrush Square).

Future Bulletins

We aim to issue these bulletins each month, so if you want to include something in our next issue, please send it to us before11 May.We are often short of time, so earlier is better – and after allowing for editing and distribution, there’s not much point in telling us about events happening much before the 18/19 May weekend. Please send direct to apiperbrix@aol.com

Stay Connected!

It looks impressive if we build up a long list of contacts, but we much prefer if the information is reaching people who are still active and in a position to make use of some of it.
Please respond to this e-mail to tell us if:
– You have moved away or are no longer interested in Brixton affairs;
– You want to add a colleague or a related group to the contact list;
– You want to change your contact details so you get these bulletins sooner or more reliably.

Community, Events, News

March 2019 Bulletin

Brixton Neighbourhood Forum – March 2019 Bulletin

Next Forum Meeting – Monday 1st April
6-45 pm at the Vida Walsh Centre, 2b Saltoun Road SW2
The venue faces onto Windrush Square, at the southern end of Brixton Town Centre.

We are still firming up the agenda, but we aim to include:
– Update on current plans for the Town Centre, including Atlantic Road and Brixton Station Road;
– Events in Parks: Lambeth’s current review of how it handles events bookings, both for large parks like Brockwell and smaller spaces like Windrush Square (see also news item below).

This is also an opportunity for some of our member groups to share what they have been doing, or their ambitions for summer events.
If your group would like to make a presentation to the meeting, contact the Forum Secretary on apiperbrix@aol.com

Future Forum Meetings
Members asked for Forum dates to be set further ahead.  So far, we have booked further meetings at the Vida Walsh Centre for:
– Thursday 27 June,
– Thursday 25 October, both at 6-45 pm.

Other meetings and events may be slotted into the schedule according to demand.  We would welcome offers of other meeting places within our wide catchment area, and of course suggestions for topics or speakers for future meetings.

Meanwhile, we are arranging for minutes from the past two Forum meetings to be circulated to members and to be placed on the Forum website. 

Funding, Support and Training opportunities
Small Charity Training
At the time of writing, we do not know who will carry on the programme of support recently provided by Community Southwark, but we will keep you posted.  If there are training topics that your group would like help with, please let us know.  We have a small budget for this, so perhaps we could help organise something locally that member groups could send people to?

We have previously mentioned the courses for small charities organised by the Foundation for Social Improvement.  Closing date for the 28 March sessions is about now.  However, they have another cluster of London training courses coming up over the 3 days, 14-16 May – enquiries to admin@thefsi.org or see their website, www.thefsi.org

Support from Locality
For the past few years, the Neighbourhood Forum has been a member of Locality, a national federation supporting community organisations.  It recently launched a £3.2 million Bright Ideas Fund to help community business start-ups in England – closing date 9th April.
They are also involved (in partnership with 4 other organisations) in Community-led Homes, which has 3 grant funds to provide training, funding and practical support to community groups keen to take action to provide or refurbish the homes communities want.
They are continuing their Save our Spaces campaign to protect public buildings and spaces being sold off for private use.
If your group runs – or aims to run – a community building, it’s worth considering joining directly – see www.locality.org.uk
Meanwhile, our Secretary is happy to forward their recent e-bulletin.

Totally Thames calls for artists, performers and community groups
Totally Thames is a September season of arts and culture events along the 42-mile stretch of the Thames through London.  The organisers recently called for proposals for indoor or outdoor events, installations or activities that would be in, on, by or about the river. The submission guidelines provide more details, but they are keen to receive submissions from members of ethnic minorities, and from under-30s. Closing date for applications is Friday 5 April.
Enquiries to contact@thamesfestival.org 

Crowd-sourcing and Text-giving
The British Film Institute has created a short animation to promote their Britain on Film crowdsourcing platform, which can be downloaded from:
https://we.tl/t-TCA3swcrGB
It can also be viewed and shared from Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=326088114700087

Just Text Giving are ceasing their “text to donate” services at the end of this month.  News is starting to trickle in from alternative providers in this field. One we have already received details of is instaGiv – contact chris@instagiv.com if it might be useful for your fund-raising.

PAC-UK

 https://www.pac-uk.org/inoculand-forms-first-charitable-relationship-pac-uk/

We are now trying to find recipients for a grant that we have put in place starting April 2019. I already found my first recipient that is Oasis Children’s Venture in Stockwell https://oasisplay.org.uk/
What I did not count on was how challenging it was to actually find recipients. So I am now posting in various forum the incentive hoping to reach interested parties.\Brixton Neighbourhood Forum is exactly the king of recipients we are looking for. But I also see that you may know of many other organisations that could be a recipient of it.

In a nut shell:
1- we want to promote Diversity and Community by supporting any incentives with a social or educational character

2- The project need to be vetted through an organisation/establishment such as churches, schools, charities, associations.
3- Money will be paid to the organisation and will be acknowledged in a post linking our Diversity and Community page https://www.inoculandpestcontrol.co.uk/diversity-and-community/
4- it could be any thing from supporting a charity, to make possible a school project, to help a family in need…
Could you pass on the info to interested parties or promote it through your page.
Regards,Daniel

Historic Buildings Guidance
If your project revolves around a historic building, either Listed or in a Conservation Area. the Heritage of London Trust is currently holding a series of morning workshops in Clapham on some of the key issues for groups considering or preparing bids for funding. Still to come are:
– Thursday 21 March: Asset transfer and partnerships;
– Monday 1 April: Fund-raising for historic buildings;
– Thursday 18 April: Feasibility study or Options appraisal?

To reserve a place on any session, please contact rosemarie.shaw@yahoo.co.uk

News, Events and Activities
Events in Parks – Council Consultation underway
Lambeth Council is now consulting on changes to how it manages events in its parks and open spaces.  The present scheme was adopted in 2016 but has been criticised for the impact of big commercial events on major parks like Brockwell Park and Clapham Common.  The proposed changes sound like an improvement on this, but it’s worth checking for loopholes.  We would like to hear your comments at our April meeting, but the closing date for comments to reach the Council is Sunday 5 May.  See the Consultations page on the Council’s website, www.lambeth.gov.uk

Council Review of Licensing Policy
Another Council consultation will be coming up in May over its Licensing Policy, which has to be reviewed from time to time to ensure it is abreast of current concerns.  Don’t expect too much from this, because the Council has limited scope for changes, but it’s a chance to flag up “hot spots” within the borough and loopholes in current controls. More news about this nearer the time.
 
81 Acts of Exuberant Defiance!
The germ of the idea was something to mark the 40th anniversary of the original Brixton Riots of April 1981, and to remind everyone that there is still a diverse community here.  After a couple of exploratory meetings, many ideas are emerging and several working groups are following them up.
There is an open Facebook group for anyone that wants to find out more or join in later – see https://www.facebook.com/81Acts/
Enquiries also to Chloe Osbourne, chloelayla@gmail.com or Tony Cealy,  tctonycealy@gmail.com

A last summer at the bowling green?
The bowling green in Brockwell Park has been in decline since the serious bowlers moved down the hill in 1996 to use the indoor bowls pitch in the basement of the Brixton Recreation Centre.  The outdoor green has been looking the worse for wear since the Council’s specialist green-keeper retired last year.  However a small group of enthusiasts, the Sylvan Bowls Club, revived use of the green in 2007 and has since tried to keep it in use for its original purpose. This might be their last year of playing before the surface becomes unplayable, but they expect to open the green to the public every Sunday afternoon from April to September, between 2 pm and 6 pm. There were 582 players over 30 Sundays in 2017, plus some special sessions laid on for local organisations including the Mosaic mental health centre on Effra Road.  

Vintage Voices – creative writing sessions
Another series of creative writing sessions is starting up, to encourage people to share their experiences, explore different writing styles and craft stories.
Sessions take place 1 pm to 3 pm (light lunch available at 12-30 pm) on Tuesdays 26 March, 2, 9, 23 and 30 April and 7 May, with an extra session on Saturday 20 April, all at Brixton Community Base in Talma Road, SW2. 
To register your interest, enquiries to 07 958 448 690 or 07 941 624 247, brixtoncommunitybase@gmail.com.

Youth Connect Careers Event
We Rise is organising a series of monthly careers events, each focussing on a different field of work, in conjunction with Business Launchpad.
Each will be at International House, Popes Road, SW9 7QD, between 5 pm and 7 pm:
– 8 April – Design & Media,
– 14 May – Health & Sport,
– 4 June – Finance & Tech.

These are aimed at Lambeth-based 16-18 year-olds, to help them explore different careers and build connections with professionals in those fields.
So it’s not just about getting word out to the young people, We Rise would also like to hear from people with relevant experience who can come along on any of these dates to talk to them about what they do – contact hello@werise.org.uk

Green Issues
Green light for Atlantic Road improvements
Lambeth Council’s bid for funding from TFL’s Liveable Neighbourhoods programme has finally reached the top of the pile.  The key element is re-organising Atlantic Road between Coldharbour Lane and Brixton Road to make it safer for cyclists and provide dedicated kerb space for deliveries to the shops and markets.  There will also be changes in Coldharbour Lane to improve pedestrian movement between the Brixton Village arcade and the new Oval Theatre.  The Neighbourhood Forum and the Brixton BID were represented at design meetings when proposals were first prepared nearly two years ago.  Since then the plans have been tweaked with “low traffic neighbourhoods” to be added in nearby residential areas, and a cyclists “hub” off Electric Lane. 
 
Recycling Food Waste
Lambeth has begun reminding residents about its food waste collection service.  If your home has ordinary wheely bins for waste and recycling, you should also have a small “pigswill” bin or caddy for food waste.  Feeding it to pigs is no longer allowed, so it is actually composted as a soil conditioner, but this is still cheaper for the Council than adding it to the general waste collection.  Leaflets are being distributed with more advice on how best to recycle.
For estates with larger shared bins, the Council is willing to supply community composters for a block or estate to share.

Ultra Low Emission Zone
To help improve air quality, the Mayor is starting an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) from 8 April.  To begin with, it will match the existing Congestion Charging Zone in Central London, but it will be rolled out across Brixton as far as the South Circular Road from October 2021.  To avoid paying extra charges, powered vehicles will need to meet tighter exhaust emission standards.  To check whether your vehicle meets the new criteria, see the TfL website.

Energy Advice for Enterprises
Need expert advice for a small business or organisation, but can’t spare even half a day to attend a briefing or exhibition? The Carbon Trust is now offering free technical webinars lasting 45 minutes on a range of topics, in connection with its Green Business Fund.  Topics include supply chain sustainability, commercial kitchens, sports centres, and the challenges for new start-up businesses. See more at https://www.carbontrust.com/about-us/events

Keep in touch!
We have been busy updating our mailing list, but there is still lots to do!  Please respond to this e-mail to tell us if:
– You have moved away, or are no longer interested in Brixton affairs;
– You want to add a colleague to the list;
– You want to change your contact details so you get messages sooner, rather than them going to an old inbox that you only check occasionally.

In fact, if we haven’t heard from you for a while, why not send us an e-mail anyway, to remind us that you are still active and interested?
 
We are trying to issue these bulletins each month, so if you want an announcement included in our next issue, it helps if we receive it by 13 April.
Remember it takes a while to compile and distribute each bulletin, so no point in telling us about events happening before the 20th!
We are not usually short of space, but we are often short of time, so most bulletins have been basic so far.
Please send direct to the Secretary, Alan Piper, at apiperbrix@aol.com or phone enquiries to (020) 7207 0347.

Community, Events, News

February 2019 Bulletin

Brixton Neighbourhood Forum – February 2019

A quick bulletin this month, because we have some imminent dates to remind you about.  Meanwhile, other plans are taking shape, so we should have much more to tell you next month.  If you want to share what your group is doing, or seek support from others around Brixton, try to send us your news or requests before the end of February.

Quick Reminders

Lambeth Country Show

A follow-up to the notice in last month’s bulletin – applications to trade or exhibit must be in by 4 pm on Friday 15 February.

This is even earlier than last year, and the site fees are higher!  Show dates are 20 & 21 July – enquiries to countryshow@lambeth.gov.uk

Tackling Violent Crime – Herne Hill Ward Meeting

Herne Hill Labour Councillors have organised a public meeting this Saturday, 16 February, 12 noon to 2 pm at the Carnegie Library, 188-192 Herne Hill Road SE24.  Speakers include Helen Hayes MP, London Assembly member Florence Eshalomi, Cllr Mohamed Seedat, Lambeth’s cabinet member for community safety, and police representatives.

Camberwell Area Plan

If you are interested in the area around the Camberwell Green crossroads, Southwark Council is hosting a public consultation event this Saturday, 16 February between 10 am and 4 pm outside Camberwell Library, 48 Camberwell Green SE5 7AL.  Architects Gort Scott are conducting more detailed workshops in the large meeting room above the library, 12-30 to 1-30 pm or 3 pm to 4 pm – to attend these, please e-mail sarah@gortscott.com

 

Community Connector Training – Last Call

Another follow-up from last month’s bulletin – the next course starts with a training day on 21 February so act now if you want to join in!  You must attend all 4 dates to complete the training.  If you missed out, Dave Goslyn should be able to tell you if another course is in the pipeline – all enquiries to him on 07 540 095 696 or dave.goslyn@nhs.net

Sustainable Energy – closing soon

Need help with combating fuel poverty, improving energy efficiency of community spaces or creating renewable energy infrastructure?  Power Partners is funded by UK Power Networks and administered by the Centre for Sustainable Energy.  Closing date for the first round of applications is Monday 18 February at 6 pm.  See website www.communityenergy.london or enquiries to Fleur Disney at fleur.disney@communityenergy.london 

Lambeth’s Own World Cup

This reached us by a roundabout route, but the Lambeth World Cup Tournament is being organised by the Fulham FC Foundation to coincide with the schools’ half-term, on Tuesday 19 February.  Matches take place on the Astro pitch in Kennington Park, SE11 4BE. Players should arrive at 11-30 am tosign in, for matches to start at 12-30 pm, and the event should end by 4 pm. Age groups are 9-12, 12-14 and 15-18. Enquiries to Paul Smithers on 0870 442 5432 or 07 500 108 495 or e-mail to psmithers@fulhamfc.com

Healthy Family Food with Incredible Edible LEAP

A morning of demos, recipes and tips from food blogger Mandy Mazliah on how to encourage kids to eat more fruit and veg, on Tuesday 19 February. 10 am to 12 noon at the Platform, the former toilet block at the corner of Loughborough Road and Ridgeway Road, SW9. To book a place please contact Helen on 07 949 985 343 or e-mail toincredibleedibleleap@gmail.com

Half Term at the Fire Brigade Museum

The pop-up museum in Lambeth High Street is hosting a morning session for kids (age 3 upwards) on Wednesday 20 February, drop in between 10 am and 1 pm (last entry 12-30).  Design your own fire engine greeting card and learn about the history of firefighters uniforms in London.

Enquiries to museum@london-fire.gov.uk

News, Events, Activities

High Rise at Loughborough Junction

A revised planning application has been made for the former Higgs Industrial Estate at the foot of Herne Hill Road, close to Loughborough Junction Station.  This time it includes a single tower block rising to 16 storeys.  Loughborough Junction Action Group have called a public meeting to discuss the plans, on Wednesday 27 February, at 7 pm at the Grove Adventure Playground.  If you want to see the proposals on the Council’s website, the reference is 18/05425/FUL and the deadline for comments has been extended to 4th March. 

Town Hall Changes

Now that Lib Peck has gone to work at City Hall, Councillor Jack Hopkins has been elected Leader of the Labour Group, and is due to be confirmed as Leader of the Council shortly.  It is not clear yet if this will lead to any other changes of roles within Lambeth’s Cabinet.

Among senior officers, some will be pleased to hear that Sue Foster has left, and staff are now grouped into 5 Directorates, though their heads (some still “acting” or interim) are not familiar names.  The Directorates are:

– Sustainable Growth & Opportunity, which includes responsibilities for new housing and regeneration.

– Resident Services, including most day-to-day public services and Council housing management.

– Children’s Services, including schools and social care.

– Adults and Health, including adult social care and public health matters.

– Finance & Investment, including the traditional Treasurer functions.

Meet at the Brixton £ Café?

The Brixton Pound Café at 77 Atlantic Road has space available to hire for meetings or exhibitions – either the café space, or the basement studio – at affordable rates. Enquiries toThomas@brixtonpound.org

Free Woodworking Classes at the Remakery

The Brixton Remakery in Lilford Road, SE5 9HY, is to host a series of woodworking classes, starting in March.  The target group is older men in Lambeth, though women and younger men will be welcome too.  Classes are free and will take place every 2 weeks over 6 months. Typical projects will include planters, wine racks and wooden toys, mostly using recycled wood. Both beginners and experienced woodworkers welcome – enquiries to terry@citywoodwork.co.uk

Volunteer Guides Wanted!

Two local opportunities if you want to get out and meet more people:

Brixton Windmill Tours start up again in April, with at least one weekend opening a month through to October.  Friends of Windmill Gardens are keen to recruit more volunteers as activities should increase once the Education Building is completed next to the mill.  Enquiries or offers of help to info@brixtonwindmill.org.uk

Van Gogh in Brixton: 87 Hackford Road SW9, where the artist stayed in 1873-74, is being renovated and should open for tours from April.  Volunteer guides are being recruited via the San Mei Gallery, now based in the former Loughborough Hotel.  More details on their website at www.sanmeigallery.co.uk/van-gogh-house   Closing date for first batch was meant to be Friday 15th, but check with Janet Currier on janet@sanmeigallery.com

Funding and Training opportunities

Future Support for Community Organisations

For the past couple of years, some support with fund-raising and training has been available through Community Southwark, but that contract runs out this month.  We understand that new arrangements are being considered from several possible providers, but it may be a month or so before the position is clearer.

 

Sustainable City Awards

If your group is interested in sustainability or promoting greener life-styles, check out this award scheme run by the London Sustainability Exchange. Applications can be made up to 29 March.  More details on their website at www.lsx.org.uk

Small Charity Workshops

In previous bulletins we have mentioned the training sessions run by the Foundation for Social Improvement.  The next batch in London comes up on Thursday 14 March at Voluntary Action Islington, with a choice of 90-minute sessions.  Following that is a full-day Skills Conference on Thursday 28 March in Central London, with a mix of useful sessions for a total of £25.  As before, all enquiries to admin@thefsi.org or see their website, www.thefsi.org

First Aid Training

The St. John’s Ambulance Association currently have a scheme to encourage over-50s to gain basic first-aid skills.  Brixton Community Base in Talma Road has already hosted a session before Christmas, so maybe it could be useful to your group too?  Sessions are free, funded by DCMS and Nesta.

Enquiries to Rosie Mcgloughlin, 07 896 969 869 or at rosie.mcgoughlin@sja.org.uk

 

Keep in touch

We are rebuilding our mailing list, so now is the time to tell us if you prefer information to go to a more convenient e-mail address, or to a colleague.

If you have moved away, or no longer wish to be involved, please tell us and we will delete you from our list – a simple e-mail toadmin@brixtonneighnourhoodforum.org or to apiperbrix@aol.com

And please get in touch if you want something from your corner of Brixton to feature in a future Forum meeting, or in one of these bulletins.  We are currently trying to arrange meeting dates for the year ahead.

                                   Alan Piper, Secretary.

Community, Events, News

January 2019 Bulletin

Thanks for Survey responses

Despite the run-up to Christmas being a busy time for us all, we received encouraging responses to our recent digital survey.  These include some constructive ideas that we want to follow up.  Overall, 82.9% of respondents thought the Forum has been useful, and 92.4% agreed it was needed.

More Help Needed!

The Forum was less active last year because our Executive team was depleted by illness.  We are now looking for extra members to get involved, so that the Forum can be more active again – come to the next meeting or e-mail us. 

Building Community Links

We are aware that the majority of our members are involved in a variety of local organisations, some fully-fledged charities, some very informal grass-roots groups, and some small businesses or social enterprises.  We are keen to encourage networking and collaboration between different groups around Brixton.  We try to share useful information through these bulletins, but if you would like more on any particular topic, please tell us.  

Open Project Night at the Impact Hub

One regular spot for networking is the Open Project Night, held every Monday evening at the Impact Hub, at the back of Pop Brixton, Station Road SW9 – open 6-30 to 10 pm (food served at 6-30 pm as an incentive to be on time!)

Enquiries to info@transitiontownbrixton.org

Dexter Playground opportunity

At short notice, Lambeth Council is offering use of the Dexter Adventure Playground rent-free for community use. The new leaseholder will need to provide activities that support the development of children and young people in the borough, though hiring the premises for other purposes will be permitted if consistent with the main use. Critically, applicants will need to provide a business plan showing how they intend to use the premises, and how they will engage with the community. This plan will be the basis of a Community Service Agreement with the Council.  Deadline for proposals is 1st February and the site is available for viewing this Tuesday morning (15th) or Wednesday 16th between 1 pm and 3 pm.

All enquiries to Paul Davies of Lambeth’s Children’s Services Team, pavies5@lambeth.gov.uk

Funding and Training opportunities

Stronger Together programme – Community Southwark

Community Southwark is nearing the end of its 2-year programme of practical support for Lambeth-based community organisations, funded by the London Community Foundation (LCF).  We have not yet heard if there will be any further support for Lambeth groups after March, so latch onto this programme while you can.

Enquiries to development@communitysouthwark.org or phone Rachel Henry on 020 7358 7288.

Foundation for Social Improvement

Once again, the FSI is running a series of training events for staff and management committee members/ trustees of small charities, at affordable prices at various London venues.  Enquiries to admin@thefsi.org or see their website: www.thefsi.org

Be a Community Connector 

Project Smith has been mentioned in past bulletins, as an NHS-funded project to make care in the community more effective.  They are now looking for local residents to join in the next round of Community Connector training during February and March.

Community Connectors are simply local people who link others in their community to organisations and activities that can help improve their quality of life. Lots of people may do this naturally on a daily basis, but do you always know where neighbours can turn for help?

The training will help you improve your skills and knowledge, and also provides a Level 2 qualification in Supporting Behaviour Change.

The training days run between 9-30 am and 3 pm, on February 21, 25 and 26, and March 4th. You must attend all 4 sessions to complete the course. If you are interested in joining the programme, please call David Goslyn on 07 540 095 696 or e-mail to dave.goslyn@nhs.net

Brixton BID Training Days

For social enterprises and businesses operating in the Brixton area, our Business Improvement District is running a series of one-day training courses from the end of this month through to July.  All these courses run from 10 am to 4 pm and will take place in International House (corner of Popes Road and Canterbury Crescent, SW9). Topics include food hygiene, emergency first aid, fire safety and customer service. Enquiries to admin@brixtonbid.co.uk

News, Events, Activities

Bookings open for Lambeth Country Show

If you want to trade or exhibit at the next Lambeth Country Show, the deadline for applications is Friday 15 February at 4 pm. There are also opportunities to perform, or to host workshops, with the same deadline. See https://lambethcountryshow.us11.list-manage.com or enquiries to countryshow@lambeth.gov.uk

Brockwell Park – A Future for the Hall

For the past couple of years. Lambeth Council, supported by Brockwell Park Community Partners, have been attempting to get funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to support improvements to the old house in the centre of the park.  The latest bid has recently been given Stage 1 approval by the HLF, which releases £387,500 to develop detailed plans over the next couple of years.  The second stage, the actual restoration, will cost around £6 million, of which Lambeth will need to find part.  See also  https://love.lambeth.gov.uk/brockwell-hall-restoration/

BPCP is organising a meeting of all the groups with an interest in the Park for Sunday 3rd March – more details to follow.

Lambeth Archives temporary closure

The Archives at Minet Library are about to close for their annual stock-taking, from Monday 28 January, and re-opening from Monday 11 February.

Brixton Vegan Market Returns

The Vegan Market will be back in Brixton Station Road, next to the Farmers’ Market, from Sunday 27 January onwards. It will be open weekly between 11 am and 4 pm. 

More at www.Facebook.com/BrixtonVeganMarket

Children’s Centres at Risk

Lambeth Council is currently consulting on reducing the number of children’s centres in the borough. These mostly cater for under-5s and offer support to parents. Local sites include Effra early years centre in Effra Parade, and centres attached to Stockwell Road, Jubilee and Loughborough Road schools. Closing date for comments is10 February -see the Consultations page on Lambeth’s website.

Software Savings

If your project needs more or better versions of Microsoft programs, Tekgia can provide them to charities, churches, schools and associated volunteers at discount prices. See their website www.tekgia.com or phone 0845 124 0484.

PAPA’s Park Facelift

The community playground in Pulross Road SW9 recently re-opened after an extensive refit. New play equipment has been installed and the under-5s area has been extended. This comes after 6 years of fund-raising and lobbying.  Thoughts are already turning to the next phases, to upgrade the multi-purpose ball games court and add a new purpose-designed building to enlarge the café and provide meeting space that can be hired out to generate future income, because the site  receives no public funding.

More details, including how to contribute, on their website at www.papaspark.co.uk

Keep in touch!

We are rebuilding our contact list, so this is the ideal time to tell us if you prefer information to go to a different e-mail address, or to a colleague.

If you no longer wish to be involved, please tell us and we will delete you from our list – e-mail to admin@brixtonneighbourhoodforum.org or to apiperbrix@aol.com

Also get in touch if you want something from your group to appear in the next bulletin, or to feature in a future Forum meeting.

News

November 2018 bulletin

Next Forum Meeting

There has been a long gap in our bulletins because our team has been depleted by illness, but we are now starting to plan for a more active programme next year. The first step is to agree a budget so that we can renew our basic funding from the Lambeth Forum Network.

We also need to hear what you think the Forum’s priorities should be for the year ahead. That’s two good reasons for holding a Forum meeting on Monday next, 26 November, starting from 7 pm at the Vida Walsh Centre, 2b Saltoun Road SW2 (facing onto Windrush Square). 

We need your views – take our survey!

If you cannot make the next meeting – or just want to feed in ideas before the meeting – please complete our simple survey on the link in the version of this bulletin sent to our mailing list members.

If you don’t have time to respond before the meeting, we will continue to collect results up to mid-December, to help inform next year’s Forum activities.

Current Consultations on Planning and Transport

Lambeth has 3 important policy documents out for comment until Monday 17 December:

– the Draft Revision of the Lambeth Local Plan;

– changes to the Charging Schedule for the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL);

– Lambeth’s Draft Transport Strategy.

We will briefly introduce these on Monday and highlight a few of the changes that Lambeth wants to make.  We would encourage you also to respond directly (via the Consultations section of the Council’s website).  Are the proposed changes helpful or not?  Are other issues being ignored?

The Local Plan is probably the most important of the three documents, but there is a lot of it to check through.  There are certainly some new proposals for Brixton this time. 

The CIL Charging Schedule is generally being increased, so that more money from new developments comes back to the Council, but we need to be careful that key services for a balanced community are not discouraged.  There is a risk that our Council will become too dependent on developers’ money and allow too much building, to the detriment of the local community.

Transport strategies are largely set by the Mayor and Transport for London, so Lambeth’s strategy is largely a reflection of London-wide priorities – but it’s a great opportunity to press for access to the London Overground,  or for better bus connections.

News from Local Organisations

If your group wants to make a presentation or report to Monday’s meeting, please tell the Secretary as soon as possible, so that we can organise the final agenda.  We are also happy to put out your news through these bulletins or on our website.  Also contact us if you would like to present to a future Forum meeting.

Brixton Rec User Group – public meeting, Tuesday 27 November

6 pm to 8 pm in the meeting room on Level 6. Is the Rec working for you? What changes would you like to see?  Enquiries to recusergroup@btinternet.com

Ten years of Transition Town Brixton:

Marking 10 years of the Transition Town movement in Brixton, with reports from several projects which grew out of TTB, including Brixton Pound, the Remakery and Incredible Edible Lambeth. Thursday 6th December, 7 pm to 10 pm at the Impact Hub (at back of Pop Brixton) 49 Brixton Station Road SW9.

Christmas Fairs and more

Saturday 24 November – Friends of Carnegie Library Winter Fair, 11 am to 3 pm at St. Saviour’s Church Hall, Herne Hill Road (c/o Finsen Road) SE24.

Saturday 1st December – Loughborough Farm Market @ The Platform, 2 Ridgeway Road SW9 7AH: 1 pm to 3 pm, featuring the farm’s winter harvest, Christmas greenery and handmade gifts.

Sunday 2nd December – Friends of Brockwell Park Winter Fair, 11 am to 3 pm in Brockwell Hall, in the centre of the park.

Monday 3rd December – Stockwell Good Neighbours Christmas Fair, 11 am to 3 pm at the Oval House Theatre, 52-54 Harleyford Road SE11 5SW. Enquiries to info@stockwellgoodneighbours.org

The Brixton Society will have their regular stall in Brixton Station Road on Saturday 8th December, 11 am to 3 pm, to coincide with their monthly Market walk.  A chance to stock up with local history books, maps and postcards.

The Crafty Fox Christmas Market this year will be downstairs at The Department Store, 248 Ferndale Road SW9, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 December, 11 am to 5 pm.

Van Gogh bust unveiled at Hackford Road:

A bust of Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh has been set up in Van Gogh Walk, off Hackford Road, close to where he stayed as a young man in 1873-74.  It is one of a series designed by sculptor Anthony Padgett, which are being set up at various sites associated with the artist – others are planned for sites in Isleworth, Ramsgate and Arles in France.  The local example was unveiled on Friday. 

Funding, support and training opportunities

We will continue to share information that comes to us from funders and other agencies.

Workspace Opportunity for a Social Enterprise

Tripod is the business space in the basement of the remodelled Town Hall, managed by Meanwhile Space.  They are looking for a social enterprise to join their nucleus of creative and tech businesses, offering event space, subsidised office space or hot desk memberships.  Enquiries to rosie@meanwhilespace.com

International House open for Business

Lambeth has moved its own staff out of International House, and handed it over to 3Space to manage.  The Brixton BID, Brixton Design Trail and We Rise are among those who have already moved in.  More details at www.3spaceinternational.co.uk

Published by Brixton Neighbourhood Forum.

Community, Events, News

June 2018 Bulletin

Coming Events and Activities


A Snapshot of Brixton – open until 6 July
We have already mentioned the exhibition, in Room G01 on the ground floor of the Town Hall. It’s based on the photo collection of the late Harry Jacobs, who ran a photography business in Landor Road through the last half of the 20th century.  If you would like to hear some more background, joint curators Kelly Foster and Jon Newman are putting on free talks in the room on these dates: Tuesday 12 June at 6-30 pm, Friday 22 June at 6-30 pm, and Tuesday 26 June at 1-15 pm.  Tickets are free, but please book through the Eventbrite page,
https://a_snapshot_of_brixton.eventbrite.co.uk 

 

Lambeth Country Show – 21 & 22 July
If your group plans to have a presence at the show in Brockwell Park, we will be happy to announce details in the next e-bulletin.  Remember to tell us where to find you, because it’s such a big show nowadays, you could easily miss a whole section!
Advance notice also that security will be tighter this year, with a fence round the whole show, so please allow more time to get in and out – last admission each day will be 6-30 pm. Stalls generally are expected to be set up during Friday, and removed on Monday. 

 

Brixton Summer Bazaar, Sunday 10 June
From 12 noon to 4 pm in Windrush Square, just outside Brixton Tate Library, with children’s book sale, bric-a-brac, badge-making and paper crafts, gardening workshops to help you grow your own food.
Organised by Friends of Tate Library Brixton, with Brixton Library staff. Enquiries to foftlbrixton@gmail.com

 

Events at Longfield Hall
Movers and Shakers will be an inspiring evening of new dance by emerging and established artists, on Friday 22 June at 7-30 pm – doors and bar open from 7 pm. Tickets £4 and £5 in advance, or £5 and £6 on the door – book via www.longfieldhall.org.uk
The hall is at the corner of Knatchbull and Burton Roads, opposite the Minet Library.
Enquiries about their whole events programme to Catherine on 020 7978 9153 or catherinehamilton@longfieldhall.org.uk

 

Rapport Festival
15 -17 June – volunteers needed
We mentioned the Film Festival element a couple of months back, but we now hear that a wider range of arts and entertainment activities are being planned.  A final reminder that volunteers are being sought to help with administration, marketing, photography, videography, leaflet distribution, ushers and marshalls.  The Festival will take place in various locations around Brixton over 15-17 June.
As founder-director Lara Samuels says, “All the world’s a stage, and Brixton will be ours for 2 days. Its iconic status in the lives of the British African diaspora, and the Windrush generation in particular, provides us with a perfect setting. As urban regeneration continues its inexorable march, we want to re-engage with a community that feels disregarded and reclaim Brixton’s black heritage for a new generation.”
More info at www.rapportfestival.com

 

Myatt’s Fields Park Summer Fair
Saturday 16 June
Once again there will be music on the bandstand, a children’s fairground, a dog show, cake competition, dance performances and community stalls. Open from 1 pm to 5pm, stalls cost between £10 and £50 – enquiries
to enquiries@myattsfieldspark.info 

 

Brixton Pound Café
Not only great tea and coffee, but also delicious vegetarian and vegan lunches, made from surplus food that would otherwise be wasted.  The café runs totally on a pay-what-you-can basis, providing an accessible, inclusive and non-judgmental space for the residents of Brixton and further afield.
Why not use the café for a meeting space, or hire the basement for a film screening, yoga class or art exhibition?
There are also many opportunities to get involved with some of the amazing events already happening in the space.
Open 9 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday – more information at www.brixtonpound.org
If you are interested in their Volunteer Training Programme – whether to make the perfect coffee, brush up your cooking skills or help promote the space with your social media know-how – please contact Sean at  kitchen@brixtonpound.org

 

Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses
They have several upcoming events, including 2 music performances on the evenings of Sunday 17 June and 1st July, both starting at 6 pm.
Also some practical workshop sessions:
–  Sunday 24 June, 11 am to 12-30, How to take plant cuttings (free);
– Saturday 30 June, 11 am to 2 pm, How to prepare and make plant dyes.
Please book via their website, www.brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk and follow the links.

 

Into the Night – Friday 22 June
Photofusion in Electric Lane are hosting a night of free photography classes, screenings, walks and workshops in collaboration with the Museum of London. Billed as a free drop-in, from 6 pm onwards.
Opportunities for Funding and Support

 

Stronger Together Programme
Training and support delivered by Community Southwark for community organisations working in Lambeth – some upcoming training sessions are:

Be more enterprising: earn and prosper through social enterprise on Tuesday 10 July, 10 am to 4-30  pm
Shaping the future of your organisation: develop practical plans and winnable strategies,Wednesday 5 September 10 am to 4-30 pm
Fund-raising made easy: Tuesday 25 September, 10am to 4.30pm
Venues not yet confirmed, but all bookings should be made via their website, http://comunitysouthwark.org/training

 

Small Groups Network
For groups with less than £50k turnover a year, so most sessions are in the evenings to suit volunteers:
The next Network meeting is on Thursday 19 July, 6 pm to 8 pm – topics not yet confirmed, but all enquiries to Deborah@communitysouthwark.org 

 

Project Smith – Community connectors training
We have mentioned this in a few earlier bulletins, but please note there is now a new local contact, Dave Goslyn, tel. 07 540 095 696.  Training courses are typically 4 days, spread over 5 weeks, 9-30 am to 3 pm at various venues around Lambeth. One course has recently started, but expect another in early autumn.  

 

News from Local Groups  Please keep us in touch with what you are doing, and we will flag up highlights in this bulletin whenever we can.

 

Brixton People’s Kitchen  – New Café at the Vida Walsh Centre
Since 2011, Brixton People’s Kitchen has been tackling food waste, fighting poverty and strengthening the local community. BPK has run a variety of community events which bring people together to celebrate food, and helped them learn healthy living skills.
They have now launched a Community Café at the Vida Walsh Centre, providing hot food and drinks at subsidised prices for lunches and special supper club events.
The café proceeds will support BPK’s charity, Be Enriched, and its community canteens. These serve free meals to individuals and families who are unable to do so themselves, due to health, poverty or social exclusion.

The café is currently open on

 Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10 am and 4 pm, with hot meals available between 11-30 am and 3 pm. The menu changes weekly and guideline prices are:
One course £3;
Two courses £5 (£4 subsidised price);
Three courses £6.50 (£5 subsidised price).
Enquiries to Kemi Akinola on 07 934 346 917 or e-mail to
brixtonpk@be-enriched.org More details at www.be-enriched.org.uk

 

Better Fridays at Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses
Need to get out more? Like to grow some vegetables, harvest and cook them? Come and try a spot of gentle gardening with Cathy and Cat at the Community Greenhouses on Friday mornings at 10-30 am, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch at 12-30 pm. Feel free to bring a friend or carer with you for support. Sessions continue weekly until 19 October. The greenhouse and community garden are sited between the Tennis Courts and the Walled Garden.
If interested contact Cathy on 07 834 343 664 or edu.assistant@brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

 

Remembering Loughborough Road
LEAF is the Tenants and Residents Association for the older Council-owned houses between Fiveways and Brixton Road. With the help of a small grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, they are investigating the various past uses of the shops on Loughborough Road, and collecting memories from people who have lived in the area.  If you want to be involved, they have a workshop session at Lambeth Archives at the Minet Library, Knatchbull Road SE5, on Saturday 16 June, 2 pm to 3-30 pm, or otherwise contact leaftra@gmail.com 

 

Lambeth Carers Forum – Wednesday 13 June
The next Forum organised by the Carers Hub Lambeth will be beyond our own Forum’s area, but may still be of interest to those supporting a family member with a disability or ongoing illness. 
The theme of the day is to support carers to be healthier themselves, and better connected through fun, sociable activities. It runs from 11 am to 2 pm, at Black Prince Trust, Beaufoy Walk, Kennington SE11 6AA.
Booking is essential – call (020) 7501 or e-mail to connect@carershub.org.uk

Community

Knife Crime Resources

If you are being affected by the continuing problem of knife crime, and are not sure of what help there is, we are aware of a number of initiatives that take varied approaches to breaking the vicious cycle. If you know of any more, please let us know so we can add them:

Justice for Luther Edwards

Abianda – Working with young women affected by gangs

Art Against Knives – Supporting young people at risk of violent crime

Growing Against Violence – Protection, prevention, partnership

London Village Network – Access to positive role models

Pye Project – Enabling positive attitudinal and behavioural changes

Super Kids Trust – Working with young offenders, those who struggle with drugs and victims of child sex exploitation

Dwaynamics Boxing Club – and a lot more – Angell Town

Block Workout in Angell Town

The “official” line, explaining policies and useful advice:
Metropolitan Police – Stop and Search Policy
Metropolitan Police – Knife crime policy
Community, Events, News

May 2018 Bulletin

Coming Events and Activities

 

A Snapshot of Brixton – 23 May to 6 July
A free exhibition at Lambeth Town Hall to mark the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush, open 9 am to 8 pm, Monday-Friday. Based on the work of Harry Jacobs, who ran a photography business in Landor Road until retiring in 1999, it shows typical portrait photos of his mainly Afro-Caribbean customers. Additional material from Lambeth Archives shows other aspects of their life in Brixton in the 1950s and 60s.

Wildflower Planting – Saturday 12 May
Following a successful planting day last month, the Lost Effra Project are inviting you to help finish the task on the Cowley Estate this Saturday.  Come to Cliffsend House on the Cowley Road/ Normandy Road corner any time from 11 am to 3 pm, to help lay some wildflower turf, seed a wildflower lawn and plant the last few plants into our rain gardens – all tools provided.  Enquiries to Rachel on 07 971 315 245 or rdowse@wildlondon.org.uk

 

Lambeth Carers Hub events
The Carers Hub have linked up with Morley College for their next activity. intended to boost wellbeing and help you focus.  Japanese Calligraphy is the topic, with some Origami thrown in. It’s a 7-week course on Friday afternoons, 1 pm to 3 pm, starting this Friday 11th May, including a half-term break and finishing on 29 June.  Sessions are at Morley College, 61 Westminster Bridge Road, and their usual fee scales apply.  To book a place please phone 020 7501 8970 or e-mail: connect@carershub.org.uk

Next week, 14-20 May, is

 Dying Matters Week, which may sound depressing but planning ahead for care options, funerals and wills is important and can ease the tasks of those left behind.  Several information sessions are being held around the borough, but the nearest is at 336 Brixton Road on Wednesday 16 May between 10-30 am and 1 pm (open for registration from 10 am, free refreshments). Call Healthwatch on 020 7095 5764 or book via Eventbriteat https://end-of-life-care-info-session.eventbrite.co.uk

 

Inspiring Women in Business
14 -18 May WinTrade Week
A reminder about this series of events at various London venues, culminating in the WinTrade Awards at the Park Plaza Hotel. Organised by Yvonne Thompson of 7 Traits Leadership Learning, c/o 16 Trinity Gardens SW9 – enquiries to 020 3086 9311 or e-mail win@wintradelondon.com

 

Tackling the Windrush Scandal
The commemoration of the first arrivals from the Caribbean 70 years ago has helped embarrass the Government into a climb-down over its “hostile environment” policy, but people who arrived before 1973 still need to act to protect their position.  The Black Cultural Archives are hosting a series of Legal Clinics on these dates: Saturdays 10 am to 1 pm on 12 May, 19 May, 26 May, or Wednesdays at 5 pm to 8 pm on 16 May or 23 May, all at BCA, 1 Windrush Square SW2.

Longfield Voices now underway
This free singing group has launched with a focus on songs around the themes of “home” and “belonging”.  Sessions are at Longfield Hall (corner of Knatchbull and Burton Roads) on Thursdays between 10 am and 11-30 am, refreshments included.  Enquiries to Catherine on 020 7978 9153 or catherinehamilton@longfieldhall.org.uk

Rapport Festival
15 -17 June – volunteers needed
We mentioned the Film Festival element a couple of months back, but we now hear that a wider range of arts and entertainment activities are being planned.  Volunteers are being sought to help with administration, marketing, photography, videography, leaflet distribution, ushers and marshalls.  The Festival will take place in various locations around Brixton over 15-17 June. More info at www.rapportfestival.com

Myatt’s Fields Park Summer Fair – Saturday 16 June
Once again there will be music on the bandstand, a children’s fairground, a dog show, cake competition, dance performances and community stalls. Open from 1 pm to 5pm, stalls cost between £10 and £50 – enquiries to enquiries@myattsfieldspark.info 

 

Opportunities for Funding and Support

 

Stronger Together Programme
Training and support delivered by Community Southwark for community organisations working in Lambeth – some upcoming training sessions are:
Finance Made Easy on Wednesday 23 May, 10 am to 4-30 pm;
Fund-raising and beyond: diversify and grow your income on Thursday 7 June, 10 am to 4-30 pm;
Be more enterprising: earn and prosper through social enterprise on Tuesday 10 July.

Venues for the last 2 dates not yet confirmed, but all bookings should be made via their website

,http://communitysouthwark.org/training

 

Grants, helpers, premises…
For Projects working in or around Brockwell Park
Sections of Brockwell Park will be fenced off from 19 May onwards, in readiness for the Field Day/ Mighty Hoopla events which run through Friday 1st to Sunday 3rd June. Full public access will only be restored from 10 June.
To sweeten the pill, the organisers have committed to a community funding pot, which has just opened for grant applications. Maximum bid £5,000 – but lower is more likely to be successful.  Closing date is noon on Sunday 3rd June, application forms to be sent to Kelly@fielddayfestivals.com . Successful applicants will be advised by 16 July, and should receive funds by 30 July.  Most relevant groups should already have been alerted via Brockwell Park Community Partners, but if you still need a form, e-mail to apiperbrix@aol.com for a Word version.


Need a team of volunteers for a day?
A number of large City employers organise teams of their staff to help out at community projects for a day.  Santander is inviting London-based projects to sign up for help from teams of 6 to 20 people for practical projects such as a Big Spring Clean for your premises. Costs of materials can also be reimbursed up to £250. Register with Santander Discovery Days on 0345 612 3570 or enquiries to Adrianna Lancuski atSantander@ccworks.co.uk

 

Hire a Studio in Stockwell
A reminder that Art4Space Community Arts Centre can offer space for a meeting, training day or studio work. Currently available for some Saturdays, Sundays, and some weekday slots, at Unit 1, 31 Jeffreys Road, SW4 6QU. Enquiries to Julie at jewels@art4space.co.uk or phone 07 816 386 270.

 

Are you a Small Business or Social Enterprise?
Support – and even funding – may still be available, even if your focus is earning a living rather than as a charitable project:
Federation of Small Businesses publishes a regular e-mail bulletin, First Voice, to keep members informed of changing legislation and emerging business issues. See www.fsb.org.uk
Other umbrella organisations that could be useful include Your Business Community,www.yourbusinesscommunity.co.uk
and London Entrepreneurs Network, www.londonentrepreneursnetwork.com

 

The Business Show will be at Excel in Docklands on 16 & 17 May, with lots of short talks and seminars on aspects of starting and running a business. For information and tickets see www.greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk

Need Music while you work / eat/ relax?
The Music Licence allows you to legally play music for employees or customers in your business through the radio, TV, other digital devices and live performances.
It’s a new venture between the UK’s two music licensing organisations – PPL and PRS for Music, to make it easier for businesses and organisations to obtain a music licence. There’s now one point of contact, one licence and one invoice. Enquiries to 0800 0720 808 or see www.pplprs.co.uk

 

News from Local Groups
Several events came bunched together around the end of April, and it was not possible to have a representative at all of them, but please keep us in touch with what you are doing, and we will flag up highlights in this bulletin whenever we can.

 

Stockwell Park Estate Community Trust. 

The Community Trust launched their re-modelled community centre on 26 April, the culmination of over 30 years of developing community activities and services on the estate. They now want to build partnerships with other organisations to support the local community and encourage social mobility.  Centre facilities are also available to hire for family social events or community activities – see www.thetrust.org.uk for current programmes.
Enquiries to 020 7924 9899 or info@thetrust.org.uk 

 

Groove School
Groove School offers DJ and Music Technology workshops for all ages and abilities. The organisation was set up in 2011 and has been based in Unit 31 at Pop Brixton since August 2017. Currently they are running 3 after-school groups a week and one at the weekend. They also run adult classes and mini-courses covering all aspects of music production and STEAM. They plan to host their own marquee again during this summer’s Lambeth Country Show.
Enquiries to info@grooveschool.co.uk

 

Brixton People’s Kitchen Café
Brixton People’s Kitchen now has a regular café service at the Vida Walsh Centre, 2b Saltoun Road SW2, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10 am and 3-30 pm.  They offer fresh healthy 2-course meals for £6 (£5 for pensioners), with nice seating, wifi and even a little garden. Profits go to funding free meals for vulnerable people and those on low incomes.

 

Better Fridays at Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses
Like to grow some vegetables, harvest and cook them? Come and try a spot of gentle gardening with Cathy and Cat at the Community Greenhouses on Friday mornings at 10-30 am, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch at 12-30 pm. Feel free to bring a friend or carer with you for support. Sessions continue weekly until 19 October. The greenhouse and community garden are sited between the Tennis Courts and the Walled Garden.
If interested contact Cathy on 07 834 343 664 or edu.assistant@brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

 

Brixton Chamber Orchestra
News has filtered through that a Brixton Chamber Orchestra is getting underway. Rehearsals are at St. Michael’s Church, Stockwell Park Road. Upcoming projects are a Summer concert in Windrush Square, an Autumn concert with a choir, and something else around Christmas.


Improving St. Matthew’s Tenants’ Hall
Efforts are being made to turn an old store room into a usable office, at the hall in St. Matthew’s Road, so offers of decent furniture and office equipment would be welcome. 

 

Contact us
If you would like something from your group included in next month’s e-bulletin, please send the information to apiperbrix@aol.com before the end of May.  Also get in touch if you would like to present your project at one of our Forum meetings, or if you want an issue included in the next agenda.
Remember, if you want to update your contact details, add a colleague – or just stop receiving this stuff – please e-mail to admin@brixtonneighbourhoodforum.org

Community, Events, News

April 2018 Bulletin

In case you missed them…
These may have been mentioned before, either here or in the Community Southwark funding bulletins, but just in case…
Trust for London grant schemes–see https://www.trustforlondon.org.uk
Kindlink channels surplus goods and furniture from major firms to charities: https://www.kindlink.com
Walcot Foundation is a long-standing Lambeth-based grant funder: http://www.walcotfoundation.org.uk


Discounts on Software for Charities
Tekgia can provide software for charities at discounted prices. If you are using old or hand-me-down computers, it’s worth knowing that they can supply earlier versions of mainstream Microsoft programs to suit earlier operating systems like Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7 or 8. More details on their website at www.tekgia.com


Metropolitan Public Gardens Association
The MPGA can provide modest grants for planting projects in public spaces and school grounds. Full details of current criteria and deadlines are on their website at http://www.mpga.org.uk/grants.php


Another FSI Training Event
A further batch of training courses for charities are being run by theFoundation for Social Improvementon Tuesday 15 to Thursday 17 May, at Amnesty International UK, New Inn Yard EC2.  Costs £7.50 to £15 per session, further details on their website atwww.thefsi.org

Locality
The Neighbourhood Forum is affiliated to Locality, a national network of community centres and community-led organisations. We will share information from them on funding schemes and good practice as opportunities arise. 

Small Business or Social Enterprise?
Support – and even funding – may still be available, even if your focus is earning a living rather than as a charitable project: The Carbon Trust provides advice to businesses and organisations on energy saving and efficiency generally.  There are frequent conferences, exhibitions and webinars for specific industries or topics, publicised through an e-mail bulletin.  Especially check out their Green Business Fund. See https://www.carbontrust.com or http://smenetwork.carbontrust.com


Federation of Small Businesses publishes a regular e-mail bulletin, First Voice, to keep members informed of changing legislation and emerging business issues. See www.fsb.org.uk
The Business Show will be at Excel in Docklands on 16 & 17 May, with lots of short talks and seminars on aspects of starting and running a business. For information and tickets see www.greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk 

Other Events & News

My Health Story
Do you – or a family member – live with multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, rheumatism or depression? Do you live in Lambeth or Southwark? This project is looking for people to take part in an enjoyable creative project to share your story and learn new skills. No experience is necessary and there are no age or mobility barriers.  You can take part if you have 3 or more long-term health conditions. You will be invited to join a free workshop with other local people, or work singly with professional help, to create your own digital story about your experiences – a mix of photography, video and audio. The project will inform the research of local health foundation, Guys and St.Thomas Charity, to improve the lives of people with multiple health conditions.
For more information, contact Amenah Enayat at Rosa Productions, tel.07 946 424 007, ameneh@rosaproductions.co.uk 


New Town Hall Project update
The Town Hall itself is now back in operation (though somebody forgot to provide a post room for distributing the mail!).  The builders have handed over the new Civic Centre on Brixton Hill and staff have been moving in, though it’s not yet open to the public. The Press – now the staff cycle store on Buckner Road, at the back of Iver House – is also complete. The main block of Iver House has been converted to flats, which are already being marketed.  Work continues on the 14-storey flats which replaced Hambrook House.  Olive Morris House will be replaced in turn once the Civic Centre is fully functional.  More at www.yournewtownhall.org 


Underground Utilities – Electric Brixton
As part of modernising the National Grid, a deep tunnel is to be excavated between Wimbledon and New Cross, to carry high-voltage electricity cables.  As with the current work on the Thames Tideway sewer tunnel, it will need shafts to be sunk at intervals along the route to provide access and remove spoil. It’s proposed to sink one shaft at the corner of Acre Lane and King’s Avenue, where the site is vacant after another planning application was refused. Proposals will be displayed at Clapham Library, Mary Seacole Centre, 91 Clapham High Street SW4 on Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 April, between 2 pm and 8 pm each day.  Enquiries to 0800 783 2855 or nationalgrid@londonpowertunnels.co.uk


Grove Adventure Playground
Volunteers are seeking more help to get the playground re-opened this spring. There’s a DIY Day on Saturday 14 April, from 10 am to 4 pm – Lunch and refreshments provided. It’s in Gordon Grove, behind the Marcus Lipton Youth Club.  Enquiries/ offers togrovevolunteers@gmail.com

Next Generation Cultural Project
As a runner-up prize in the recent contest for London Borough of Culture, Lambeth was awarded £200,000 by the Mayor for its Next Generation Project, which will work with key cultural institutions in the borough to provide skills and job opportunities for young people in the arts and creative fields.  Key contacts in Lambeth are Matthew Blades (Business & Investment)mblades@lambeth.gov.uk and Dawn Bunce (Arts officer) dbunce@lambeth.gov.uk  


Brixton Design Trail launched
BDT18 has been launched with a callout for local creatives and businesses to join in. It aims to showcase the best creative work south of the river as part of the London Design Festival, between 15 and 23 September. Once again, it aims to show the unique culture of Brixton to a wide audience, bringing creativity to the streets for everyone in the community. This year’s theme is We Belong.  To find out more or get involved, visit http://brixtondesigntrail.com

Contact us
If you would like something from your group included in next month’s e-bulletin, please send the information to apiperbrix@aol.combefore the end of April.
Remember, if you want to update your contact details, add a colleague – or just stop receiving this stuff – please let us know