Discover our history - Paddington Development Trust

WestminsterWorks forresidentsZsuzsanna Nemeth, 26, lives inPaddington. With the help ofWestminster Works, she recentlyfound a job as a retail assistantwith French Connection on RegentStreet. Zsuzsanna is from Hungaryand has lived in the UK since 2007.She said, ‘At first I couldn’t believeI found a job. I started as a retailassistant with French Connection inearly December 2009, in time forthe Christmas rush. I get to speak toour customers and help them findthe right sizes and styles. I also manthe fitting rooms and fold up ourclothing. It’s all very new to me,but I really love it and want to be abuyer some day. It will be hard workand I have to learn a lot – these aremy first steps to get there.‘I first heard about WestminsterWorks when I saw a leaflet in oneof the libraries. I called them andthe advisor was great – I went to heroffice and everything started there.She told me that shops on RegentStreet were recruiting and helpedme get into a two week retail coursewith The Crown Estate, which wasdelivered by Westminster AdultEducation Service.‘I learned about marketing,management and customer services.We did role play and recorded ourperformances – that really helpedme build up my confidence. Then Ihad an interview with Faheem fromThe Crown Estate – he was selectingpotential candidates for FrenchConnection. My advisor, Janki,helped me with my CV and interviewskills – so I wasn’t too nervous.‘I’m very happy to have found a job.I was unemployed for two months.If you don’t have a job, you’re justhome alone and searching for jobsalone, so it’s hard to find something.PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTMINSTER WORKSTom Faulkner and Zsuzsanna Nemeth, who work at French Connection onRegent Street, are pleased with how Westminster Works has helped them.This is where the advisors can reallyhelp – they know so much moreabout the jobs that are out there. Ihad worked in a five star restaurant inKensington, but I wanted to get intofashion and retail. The Crown Estateand Westminster Works helped meget exactly the job I wanted.‘My advice is to never give up. Go toyour local library, they have lots ofinformation. The Westminster Worksjob advisor system is great, becauseyou always speak to the same personand can build up a real relationship.You can always speak to them and askthem anything you don’t understand.’WestminsterWorks foremployersTom Faulkner, 25, from Greenwich,is Store Manager at FrenchConnection Regent Street. He usedThe Crown Estates free recruitmentservice to find a retail assistant.He said, ‘I was interested in TheCrown Estates project because theyoffer a good screening process.Otherwise, I know nothing about thepeople who apply for work here – Ionly have their CVs and that oftendoesn’t tell me enough about them.‘Faheem from The Crown Estatescreens candidates by the criteriaI set him. I want specific skill setsand he only sent me candidates thatmatch. They even send people toretail and customer service coursesbefore they put them forward. Allthe people that have been passed onto us fit in with our shop.‘In December 2009, we urgentlyneeded more retail assistants andThe Crown Estate put forwardZsuzsanna Nemeth. We did a groupinterview with other candidates, andshe came across very well, a reallystrong candidate.‘This process saved me a lot of timeas otherwise I often have to interviewmore than 30 people. It’s free andanother bonus is that Faheem will lookafter his candidates for six months. It’sa really great safety net for me becausethe advisor will be there to make surethe candidates are happy as well as me.‘I will definitely use The CrownEstates services again when I look torecruit staff. The quality of candidatesis spot on and from our point of viewit’s a good cause too. Because someof the people have been out of workfor some time, they are really keen toget in and do a good job. Zsuzsannais brilliant; she’s always on time andputs a lot of energy into her work.’For more information about WestminsterWorks for Residents and Westminster Worksfor Employers, call 020 7575 3113.PHILIP WOLMUTHAuthor, illustrator and EnterpriseCentre client Rachel Kavuma-Kyagulanyi began telling stories toher children 20 years ago to helpthem cope with losing their father.She would recount the same mythsand legends she heard from her parentswhen she was younger, and now, afterFree seminarsand more at theEnterprise CentreRachel needed help with putting together a businessplan, a profit and loss account and marketing her books.Enterprise Centre case study:Rachel Kavuma-KyagulanyiThe Neighbourhood EnterpriseCentre provides free support tosmall, start-up businesses as wellas people who are hoping to go intoself-employment.The Centre provides micro loans andgrants to local residents who have aviable business idea and need a smallinjection of funds to get them going.The new grant and loan scheme,Healthy Enterprise, is available tostart-up and first-year sustainablebusinesses operating in health andwell-being markets. This innovativefund, offered by NHS Westminster,with support from PDT, is offered ona first-come, first-served basis.PHILIP WOLMUTHmany years working as a teacher bothin Uganda and East London, she ishoping to make a success out of hernew publishing business.Her first book, Njabala, about a little girlstruggling to cope after the loss of herparents, was published in 2006. Nowshe has produced The Leopard and theIt provides loans or grants from £1000to £50,000 to prospective socialenterprises that can demonstrate addedvalue to existing health and wellbeingproducts and services through acomprehensive business plan.Also new is the Centre’s rollingprogramme of free on-site businessseminars. Booking is required.Upcoming seminars are:Goat, which is accompanied by ananimated DVD.Her stories help to improveparent-children relationships,sharing African cultures andhelping early reading. UltimatelyRachel wants them on sale inbookshops, and would love to doreadings of her stories in schools.Rachel, a Westbourne resident,found the NeighbourhoodEnterprise Centre on the Internetwhen planning to start up herown publishing business. Sheneeded help and support withputting together a business plan,making a profit and loss account,and marketing her books.With the Enterprise Centre’s help,the business has now begun andsuccess depends on the sales of herbooks. If things go well, Rachelwants to publish more myths andlegends, with some of her profitsgoing to the Cluster BranchesMinistry here in Westminster,which also helps the Widows andOrphans Project in Uganda.To buy Rachel’s books call her on 0207289 3405 or email rech.joy@fsmail.netTo contact the Enterprise Centre call 0207266 0636 or email kim@pdt.org.ukMon 8 March, 2-4pmIntroduction to Self EmploymentTue 9 MarchHealthy Enterprise Start-up andGrowth Finance (all day induction toregistering as a social enterprise)Wed 10 March, 10am-1pmMarketing Your BusinessFor more information contact Maria or Kim on020 7266 0636, email kim@pdt.org.uk or visitwww.enterprisecentre.org.uk4 5

community notice boardA newPaddingtonfestivalSince the 1960s, the greaterPaddington area has been ahotbed of cultural creativity.The Clash was formed here.Bob Marley lived here. StevieWonder gave a free concert here.These icons of popular culturewere inspired by the greaterPaddington area.Local institutions like LondonPrint Studio, Paddington Arts,Flamboyan and Yaa Asantewaa(formerly known as the Factory)have continued this tradition andgained an enviable internationalreputation for themselves and thegreater Paddington area.But the local arts scene doesn’tstop there. To these we can adda host of new and cutting-edgearts movements and groups thathave emerged of late, from theShowroom Gallery in ChurchStreet and the Subway Gallerybeneath the Edgware/Harrow Roadcrossing, to youth arts groups doingmusic, performing arts, fashion anddance. This creative melting potis made even richer thanks to themulticultural nature of Paddington.One outlet for raising the profileof all of this local talent isthrough annual community-basedfestivals, which attract over 6000people each year.2010 will see everything thathappens in the cultural calendarof Paddington between Juneand August presented under theumbrella of a Paddington-widefestival (name to be confirmed).As the programme takes shape,new activities and events will beposted on www.pdt.org.uk Visitthe site throughout the summer tosee what’s on and experience firsthandthe rich cultural tradition ofthe greater Paddington area.PHOTO COURTESY OF 4in10: THE END CHILD POVERTY LONDON PROJECTLack of housing stock, leading to overcrowding, is a major issueaffecting children, young people and parents from low income families.Child poverty and housingWestminster has the 14 th highestlevel of child poverty in London,with a shocking 53% of theborough’s children growing up instruggling families.To explore the issues causing andexacerbating this, End Child Povertyhas been working with local groups inWestminster since March 2009. It islooking to support more parents to getinvolved in campaigning on the issue.4in10: The End Child PovertyLondon Project (4in10) has beenworking with Westminster’s thirdsector organisations to identify themost important issues affectingchildren, young people and parentsfrom low income families.‘The overwhelming response hasbeen that lack of housing stock,leading to overcrowding, is the mostpressing need and deemed the mostimportant issue by our supportersin the borough,’ reported LondonCampaigns Officer Natasha Adams.‘Research by housing charity Sheltersupports this, having shown thatovercrowding causes anxiety anddepression, limits educational successand harms the health of children.’Over 1000 households inWestminster are currentlyexperiencing overcrowding, and 8394households are on social housingwaiting lists in the borough.With the Council consulting on socialhousing renewal plans at the end of2009, 4in10 brought organisationstogether to give their opinions onfuture action the Council should take.24 local organisations (includingPaddington Development Trust)supported and contributed to 4in10’sresponse to the Council’s plans.Notably, the response focusedon reducing overcrowding forexisting tenants, highlighting theimportance of play space in achild’s development, and ensuringsustained investment and responsiblecommunity development. Thefull document can be read in thecampaigns section of the 4in10 website: www.4in10.org.uk‘We now want to support Westminsterparents to get their voices heard bylocal decision makers on the issue ofchild poverty,’ says Natasha.‘To help make this happen, we willbe running free campaigns trainingfor aspiring campaigners who areinterested in forming a parents group.This is a fantastic opportunity forparents to achieve real change locallyon issues they know are important.’To find out more about the free trainingfor parents or the wider housing campaign,please contact 4in10’s London CampaignOfficer Natasha Adams on 020 7278 6676 ornatasha@ecpc.org.ukEventsThe Big BrewSat 6 Mar, 10am-12pm at St Paul’s ChurchCentre, 5 Rossmore Road, NW1. Fair TradeCoffee Morning with free tea, coffee andbiscuits. Fairtrade cakes for sale, as well as aFairtrade stall and Raffle.Cockpit TheatreTHEATRE Tue 2 Mar, 6 Apr & 4 May, 7pm,Theatre in the Pound: a great opportunityfor theatre makers to develop new ideas,get feedback on their works-in-progress. £1.Wed 3 Mar, 7 Apr & 5 May, 7.30pm, Wherefrom? Where now? Mapping Samuel Beckett:fascinating exploration of the work of SamuelBeckett. £7/£5 conc. MUSIC Thu 4 Mar, 8 Apr& 6 May, 7pm, Maqam: exploration of traditionalGreek Turkish music. Series combines concerts,talks, workshops and film. £10/£7 conc. TheCockpit Theatre, Gateforth Street, NW8. 0207258 2925. www.cockpittheatre.org.ukQueen’s Park LibraryThu 4 Mar 5.30-7pm, World Book DayParty for Kids: a chance to come tothe library dressed up as your favouritecharacter. Prizes for the best dressed andall the best games. Plenty of food anddrink. Tickets £2.50. Thu 11 Mar 5.45-7pm,Screening of Hidden Herstories: a locallyproduced documentary on four womenand their political and social successes(http://hiddenherstories.org). Refreshmentsprovided. Mon 19 Apr 6.30-8pm, QuizNight: a chance to prove your knowledgein the library. Team bookings encouraged butnot required. If interested call 020 7641 1300and ask for Queen’s Park Library. Thu 6 May6-8pm, Open Mic Night: Show off yourmusic or comedic talents at the library. Firstcome, first served. Refreshments provided.Queen’s Park Library, 666 Harrow Road,W10, 020 7641 1300.West 9 Community BazaarWed 3 Mar, 7 Apr & 5 May, 1-4pm. The thrivingbazaar will offer an impressive array of sights,tastes and textures, not to mention a FREEcup of tea or coffee. Entrance costs 20p foradults. You can hire a stall to sell your goods atthe bazaar (£3 per session). St Peter’s ChurchHall, 59 Elgin Avenue, W9. 07982 802 725 (askfor Sandra or Jackie), sansdc@hotmail.comCourses & TrainingCOLLEGE OPEN DAYWe are holding a College-wide Open Dayon Thursday 22 April from 2-7pm. Meettutors, take a look at our classrooms andfacilities, get advice and course informationand apply for a course. Call 020 77238826 or visit www.cwc.ac.uk for moreinformation. We look forward to seeing you!FREE TRAINING PROGRAMMES:The Prince’s Trust Team ProgrammeThis is an exciting personal developmentprogramme for unemployed people aged 16-25, offered by Safer Westminster Partnership,working with youth charity The Prince’sTrust and City of Westminster College. Theprogramme offers a range of skills and trainingincluding Computing, Job Search and WorkExperience, plus tasters in areas including Sport& Leisure, Media & Arts, Administration andRetail. The course runs for 12 weeks. The nextprogramme starts Monday 26 April. For moredetails call Sheromie Brewster on 07920 723504 or email sheromie.brewster@cwc.ac.ukPersonal Best(Olympic Volunteering Programme)Do you find returning to work challenging?Do you want to increase your confidenceor gain new skills? Personal Best is a FREE10-week training programme that includesa volunteering placement, first aid and aguaranteed interview for volunteering postsat the 2012 Olympic Games. You will alsocover a range of subjects including conflictmanagement, health and safety and teambuilding. The programme will work towardsthe Certificate in Personal Best, a nationallyrecognised qualification. For details call 0207258 5536 or email stephen.hayes@cwc.ac.ukSKILLS AND EMPLOYMENTTRAININGOver 18 and unemployed? We offer free adviceand guidance and various programmes that canhelp you gain the skills, training and experienceyou need to get into work, including interviewand job search skills, job applications, computingskills and a range of vocational tasters. Formore information, call 020 7258 7224.Over 19, employed and seeking training?Through Train to Gain and Apprenticeships,we offer training programmes in a wide rangeof skills and sectors. Employees can gainvaluable skills, while employers can improve theefficiency and productivity of their business. Wealso offer various bespoke training courses. Formore information call 020 7258 7215 or emailjoanne.bailie@cwc.ac.ukCOURSE INFORMATION &ADVICEIf you would like full details of all of our coursesyou can visit www.cwc.ac.uk or ring InfoPointon 020 7723 8826. If you would like to talk tosomeone about your choice of course you candrop-in to InfoPoint at the Paddington BasinCampus, North Wharf Road, London W21LF. You can talk to our InfoPoint and CourseAdvice staff and get information on fees,support and other details. Drop in any weekdayfrom 10am to 4.30pm and some Tuesdayevenings from 5-7pm (call to check first).Voluntary Action WestminsterFree training for voluntary and communitygroups. 2 Mar, Business planning for faithbasedgroups; 3 Mar, How to prepare thefinal accounts; 10 Mar, How to developa child protection policy and undertakeCRB checks; 17 Mar, How to improve yourfundraising skills. 15 Apr, Getting ready forcommissioning and procurement; 20 Apr,Project management; 21 Apr, Developingsocial enterprise. 12 May, Managing for thefirst time; 17 May, Welcome to Westminster;18 May, Final accounts and preparing forindependent examinations and audit; 19May, Involving volunteers; 25 May, Settingup a group; 27 May, Paying volunteers. For abooking form, email training@vawcvs.org orcall 020 7723 1216.Westminster Centre forIndependent LivingTue evenings over 24 weeks (60 hours intotal), BSL Sign Language Course. Wed2-3pm, Learn French: WCIL is offeringdisabled people the opportunity take regularFrench lessons. Contact Catherine atcnjau@trainingforlife.org Healthy EatingCooking Class: runs over 6 weeks andis divided into three parts - How can I eathealthily?; How to shop; and Get cooking!To reserve your place contact Naima atnaima@trainingforlife.org Training for LifeWestminster Centre for Independent Living,42 Westbourne Park Rd, W2. 020 7243 9720.Support & AdviceAdvice PlusMon 1-4pm. Welfare benefits advice, free10-minute benefit entitlement checks andin-depth debt advice available with Arabicand Bengali translation. Advice is alsoavailable from various agencies providingadvice around housing, shared ownership,employment and training options plus aweekly councillors surgery. The BeethovenCentre, Third Ave, W10. 020 8969 5881.Wed 10 Mar, 14 Apr, 12 May, 3-5pm. Sameas above, but with health checks and advicearound immigration. Greenside CommunityCentre, Lilestone St, NW8. 020 7245 2861.6 This page is sponsored by City of Westminster College7

community notice boardchildren & young people’s notice boardup a new hobby. Meet local organisationswho can give you health help and advice,listen to interesting talks from healthprofessionals and try some delicious healthyfood. 020 8964 1900.Reaching UA joint project between Age ConcernWestminster, Open Age and WestminsterAdult Education Service, providing aprogramme of weekly learning activitiesfor the over 50’s across Westminster. Enroland pay at chosen activity, fees are £1/hour,some activities are payable in advance.MiscellaneousChurch Street LibraryCV & Employment Surgeries with PaddingtonFirst: Tue 1.30-3.30pm; Bengali Women’sReading & Writing Group: Fri 10am-12pm;Knitting Club for all ages and abilities: Sat10.30am-12pm. Church Street Library, 97-99Church St, NW8, 020 7641 1300.Free Open Access to ITUse computers and scanners, checkemail, browse the Internet. Our friendlyfacilitators are on hand to help. Firststep.com: Wed 10am-1pm at GreensideCommunity Centre, 24 Lilestone St, LissonGreen, NW8. Queen’s Park New MediaCentre: Wed 1-4pm at the BeethovenCentre, in Queens Park, Third Avenue, W10.For more information, contact Alison on020 7245 2865 or amoore@cwh.org.ukPaddington Farm TrustThis small London charity owns a beautifulorganic farm in Glastonbury, Somerset.We aim to improve the quality of life andwell-being for socially-excluded peoplefrom London by enabling access to ruralgreen open spaces. We invite Londoncharities to stay at our farm, where thereis dormitory accommodation for up to 20people in two large bedrooms, plus 3 singlerooms. Outside there are 43 acres of landto explore. We are able to provide someenvironmental or outdoor education, suchas animal feeding, Forest School and survivalskills if you are interested. For details or tobook please call 01458 832752 or emailinfo@paddingtonfarm.co.ukSt Paul’s Community CentreMon 11am Barnardos, 2pm Barnabas Group(Mental Health) Drop-In, 7pm Exercise ToMusic; Tue 10am Parents & Toddlers Group,7pm Line Dancing; Wed 10am BarnabasGroup (Mental Health) Drop-In, 10am BakingGroup, 1pm Yoga, 2.30pm BereavementDrop-In (1st Wed of month), 7pm AlcoholicsAnonymous; Thu 10.30am WEDGE (PhysicallyDisabled Women’s Group), 2.45pm ThursdayClub (Abbey Road Mental Health Team), 7pmContinental Railway Circle (2nd Thursdayof month) Fri 10am Parents & ToddlersGroup, 2pm Bingo (1st Friday of Month),5.30pm Beaver Scouts Colony, 8pm AlcoholicsAnonymous; Sat 10am Music Tuition (withTanya Nyari), 2pm Georgian MaspindzeliChoir (2nd Sat), 6pm London Tigers LadiesTaekwondo; Sun 6pm Crew Youth Club.Monthly activities: Explore London and PubLunch @ Primrose Hill. Also, hall and meetingrooms for hire. 5 Rossmore Rd, NW1, 0207724 8517, www.stpaulschurchcentre.org.ukWestminster Centre forIndependent LivingActivities include arts, sailing, and gardeningclubs and an access forum. New classeswill include art, literacy, healthy eating/cookery, drama, IT and confidence. Popularoptions such as hydrotherapy, massage andreflexology continue to be available formembers (massage and reflexology areavailable to non-members). Training for LifeWestminster Centre for Independent Living,42 Westbourne Park Rd, W2. 020 7243 9720.Geraldine@trainingforlife.orgSpace for HireBeauchamp – The Electric Bargeand Floating ClassroomHard to believe, but spring / summer is aroundthe corner and it’s the perfect time for eventson The Electric Barge. Newly refurbished with asilent-running electric motor, the boat is a greatvenue for meetings, training courses, away days,receptions and parties. Hire charge discountedfor voluntary and community organisations andall income earned supports the running of oureducation project, the Floating Classroom. Tofind out more or to make a booking please callus on 020 7266 8247, email us atinfo@beauchamplodge.co.uk or visit ourwebsite at www.beauchamplodge.co.ukBeethoven CentreThird Ave, W10. The Main Hall (capacity 150)is available for private hire starting at £12.50per hour. Multimedia equipment (PA, TV, soundsystem, DVD player, multimedia projector andscreen) is also available to hire. Two meetingrooms are available starting at £5 per hourfor Beethoven Centre Members. Also, theQueen’s Park Crèche is available for groupsto book, to provide an onsite crèche facilityalongside any events, training or activitiestaking place in the centre. Call the crèchefor more information on 020 8960 2479. Formore info or to book call 020 8969 5881.Neighbourhood Enterprise CentreDo you need an affordable room for ameeting or training event? NeighbourhoodEnterprise Centre has a meeting roomfacility for hire with full disabled access,which can accommodate up to 30 people.It’s ideal for workshops, training events andmeetings, equipped with a television, DVDplayer and picture rails for exhibiting artists,a flipchart/whiteboard easel and access toa large fully equipped kitchen. A WirelessBroadband Network is provided throughoutthe centre. St Peter’s House, 59 Elgin AveW9, 020 7266 0636.Paddington AcademyWe boast state of the art facilities which areavailable for hire every evening during termtime, Saturdays and during the holidays. This isa secure site with gated entrance, monitoredCCTV and security. We have parking availablefor 52 cars and 20 bicycle stands. Our facilitiesinclude: a multipurpose gymnasium withchanging facilities, outdoor multi-use footballpitch and trim trail, drama and dance studios,studio theatre, large assembly hall, diningroom, ICT training rooms, and classroomswith whiteboards. A wide range of servicesare also available including catering andequipment hire. Bookings & Enquiries: 0207479 3935 / 07802 450 911,office@paddington-academy.orgThe Stowe CentreLocated next to lovely WestbourneGreen, this centre has a number ofspaces available for hire on weekdaysuntil 6.30pm and on weekends from2.30-11pm. Ideal for conferences,meetings or parties, these reasonablypriced spaces include a main hall (withor without kitchen hire) with a capacityof 200, a dance/drama studio andmeeting rooms. Bookings include use oftables and chairs. 258 Harrow Rd, W2.For more information or to book, pleasecontact Judith on 020 7266 8220.Warwick Community CentreAvailable for day bookings and early evenings.07717 492 715 (ask for Clair). 300 HarrowRoad, W2 5HG.Family InformationServiceInformation: on childminders, childcare andearly education, starting a career in childcare(and job vacancies in local childcare settings),out of school hours clubs, activities for childrenand young people, going back to work ortraining, tax credits, financial assistance. FIShelpline is open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, with answerphone service at all other times. Drop-in andsee FIS Outreach Officer Patrick Green everyTue, 10am-12pm, Harrow Road One Stop, 317Harrow Rd W9; 3 Mar, 7 Apr, 5 May, 10am-12pm, Marylebone JobCentre, 26-46 LissonGr, NW1; 25 Mar, 22 Apr, 27 May, 1.30-3.30pm,Maida Vale Children’s Centre, St Augustine’sPrimary School, Kilburn Park Rd, NW6; 1Mar, 5 Apr, 3 May, 10am-12pm, WestbourneChildren’s Centre, Edward Wilson PrimarySchool, Senior St, W2. Call 020 7641 7929,email fis@westminster.gov.uk or visitwww.westminster.gov.uk/childrensinfoUNDER FIVES DROP-IN &PLAYAll activities year-round unless stated.Bayswater Children’s CentreEaster holiday play scheme, 6-16 April for3-7 yr-olds, St Mary of the Angels School,Shrewsbury Rd, W2. Open 8.30am-6pm,charges apply, call 020 7641 4482 for details.Also at St Mary’s, in the school playground,there is a fresh fruit & veg co-op every Thu,3.20-4pm, bring a bag! And look out for aplanned street party on or near the BrunelEstate for early summer, dates and details tbc.Beethoven CentreAll-Nations Drop-in, for parents andchildminders to meet, Thu 10am-12pm,£1 donation, call Pepe on 07960 083 553.Queen’s Park Crèche, Mon-Fri 10am-2pm, £6/hour, some free places availablefor parents doing certain activities at theBeethoven, call Olicia or Noreen on 0208960 2479. Beethoven number is 020 89695881. 173 Third Ave, W10.Harrow Road Children’s CentreEvery Child Matters Building, EssendinePrimary School: Mon-Fri 9.10-11.30am. Mon isMessy Monday, Tue focuses on cooking, Wed isSensory Session plus Toy Library, Thu is a walkto and in Paddington Rec (with a weigh-insession at the ECM Building), Fri is PhysicalFriday. Also Under 1s Drop-in, Thu 1-3pm.Term-time only. Essendine Rd, W9, 07879895 093. Mary Paterson Nursery: Mon &Wed 9.15-11.15am and 1-3pm, Tue 9.30am fora walk in the park, Fri 9.15-11.15am. Under1s drop-in Tue 1-3pm. Term-time only. 13Riverton Cl, W9, 020 7641 5804.Meanwhile Gardens PlayhutMon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 2-5pm, with songs on Thuat 3.30pm. Free indoor and outdoor play, withtrikes, sandpit, books, toys, art activities, dressingup etc. Elkstone Rd, W10, 020 8960 4600.Micky Star Children’s CentreA variety of drop-in and workshopsessions throughout the week (includingsessions for childminders/carers/grandparent and dads), please call centreor check www.westminster.gov.uk/childrenfor details. Term-time only. 58-61 StMichael’s St, W2, 020 7402 4854.NewpinMon 1-3pm, Wed 9.30-11.30am, Thu 1-3pm.St Paul’s Church Centre, Luton St, NW8,020 7724 6765.Portman Early Childhood CentreMon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 9.30am-12pm/1-3.30pm,Wed 9.30am-12pm. Different specificactivities each day, call for details. AlsoFamily Lunch Club each day, 12-1pm. 12-18Salisbury St, NW8, 020 7641 5409/35.Queen’s Park Children’s CentreMon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9.30-11.30am, & Mon-Thu 1-3pm. Wed 9.45am-11.45am, forchildminders. Every third Sat, 10am-12pm,Date with Dad, all term-time only. 88Bravington Rd, W9, 020 7641 5838.Rainbow Family CentreMon-Fri 1-3pm, with a music session on Thu.For ages 6 mths to 4 yrs. Stay and play or bookinto the crèche. Term-time only. 11 BravingtonRd, W9, 020 8968 2690, www.wspld.orgSt Luke’s ChurchTue 10-11.30am, for carers and toddlers.Term-time only. Fairtrade café every Mon& Thu 9am-12pm. Fernhead Rd, W9, 0208960 4195.St Mary Magdalene &St Peter’s ChurchesThu 2.30pm and Mon 2.45pm respectively,Prayers for Bears. St Mary Magdalene,Rowington Cl, W2, and St Peter’s, 59 ElginAve, W9. Call 020 7289 2011 for details.St Stephen’s Primary SchoolThu 9.15-11.30am, play, learn, singing, bikes etc.Westbourne Park Rd, W2, 020 7641 4482.WECHTue 10am-12pm, for childminders, termtimeonly. WECH Community Centre,Chantry Close off Elgin Ave, W9. CallPauline on 020 7641 4515.Westbourne Children’s CentreMon-Fri, 10am-12pm. Mon & Thu toy library,Tue Arts & Crafts, Wed is an ‘Out & About’session, and separately a childminders onlydrop-in, Fri for under 1s, with breastfeedingsupport. Afternoon sessions include a dropinfor parents under 21 on Tue 1.30-3.30pm,Romp & Roll exercise class for parents andtoddlers, Mon 2-2.45pm, and Messy Play forunder 3s, Fri 1.30-2.30pm. Senior St, W2,020 7641 4312.Westbourne Park Family CentreBaby and You (for 0-18mths), Mon 10.30-11.30am; Toy Library, Tue 11am-12.30pm &Wed 11am-1pm; Family Learning, Tue 1-3pm(adults chat and do activities while thechildren play); Acorns Drop-In, Thu 10am-12pm; Creative Session Drop-In, Fri 10am-12pm. All activities 50p-£1 (except Baby &You and Family Learning, which are free),term-time only. Cnr of Porchester Rd andWestbourne Park Villas, W2, 020 7727 6019,www.westbourneparkfamilycentre.org.ukWestminster Centre forIndependent LivingSunshine Corner, for all mums, dads,carers & under 5s, particularly those witha learning or physical disability. Activitiesinclude arts & crafts, playing and singing. 42Westbourne Park Road, W2, call Yvonne on020 7243 9720 or Aneta on 020 7641 6488.Wigmore HallChamber Tots: music workshops for toddlersand their carers, including singing, percussion,meet the musicians and see the instruments.9 Mar, 10-11am (2-3 yr-olds) and 11.30am-12.30pm (3-5 yr-olds); 17 Mar, 2-3pm (2-5yr-olds); 19 May, 10-11am (2-3 yr-olds) and11.30am-12.30pm (3-5 yr-olds); 27 May, 11am-12pm (2-5 yr-olds). £6 per child. For CryingOut Loud, 45 minute classical concerts aimedat new parents and their babies (under one)– 10 & 25 Mar, 11-11.45am. £6/adult, babiesfree. Wigmore Hall, 36 Wigmore St, W1U. Call020 7935 2141, boxoffice@wigmore-hall.co.ukwww.wigmore-hall.co.ukWilberforce Primary SchoolSat-Sun 10am-3pm, nursery playground openfor under fives accompanied by an adult.For children aged 8-13 yrs, the large schoolplayground is open Sat 12-4pm. Enter fromBeethoven St, W10, 020 7641 5865.UNDER FIVES LIBRARYDROP-INSAll library drop-ins are term-time only.Church Street LibraryThu 10.30am-12pm. Just for Dads storytime,last Sat of the month, 11am-12pm. 97-99Church St, NW8, 020 7641 1300.10 To get your community organisation’s listing in the community notice board, email Toula@pdt.org.ukTo get your youth activities listed in the children and young people’s notice board, email Sholem@pdt.org.uk11

children & young people’snotice boardMaida Vale LibraryTue & Fri 10.15-11.30am. Sutherland Ave,W9, 020 7641 1300.Marylebone LibraryTue ‘Tiny Tots’ 10.30-11.30am, Fri ‘StoryTime for under 5s, 3.45pm. 109-117Marylebone Road, NW1, 020 7641 1300.Paddington Children’s LibraryWed 10.30-11.30am. Clifford Hall,Porchester Rd, W2, 020 7641 4490.Queen’s Park LibraryWed & Fri 10.30-11.30am. 666 Harrow Rd,W10, 020 7641 1300.UNDER FIVES HEALTH &WELLBEINGAll activities year-round unless stated.Bayswater Families CentreServices for families in temporaryaccommodation, unsuitable housing, or ona low income. Drop-in and play Mon-Thu2.30-4pm. Also childminders drop-in, Mon10am-12pm (term-time only), call Paulineon 020 7641 4515. 14-18 Newton Rd, W2,call 020 7221 3290.Beethoven CentreCreative Dance Class for 3-5 yr-olds, Tue4-4.45pm. 12-week session, £12/term formembers. 173 Third Ave, W10. Call 07957 384591 or email creativedance@hotmail.co.uk orcall the Beethoven on 020 8969 5881KIDS Home LearningHome Learning Sensory Group, for childrenwho have sensory impairments and limitedmobility, and who are receiving HomeLearning or are on the waiting list. Tue10.30am-12pm. Portman Early ChildhoodCentre, 12-18 Salisbury St, NW8. Call 0207641 4151, www.kids-online.org.ukMicky Star Children’s CentreChild health clinic, baby breastfeeding café,breastfeeding councillors (breastfeedinghelpline 07771 840 488), Active Kids (physicalactivities for under 5s), baby massagefor mums or dads and baby, child care &development advice and support, smoke-freehomes and smoking cessation advice/support.Please call for days/times, all term-time only.58-61 St. Michael’s St, W2, 020 7402 4854.NewpinYoung Mums Club (for under 25s), Tue 1-3pm; Active Kids Club, Wed 10.45-11.30am.St. Paul’s Church Centre, Luton St, NW8,020 7724 6765.Portman Early Childhood CentreBaby Health Clinic for Under 5s,Mon & Tue 1-3.30pm (Tue includes abreastfeeding clinic, call Oma on 07771840 488). 12-18 Salisbury St, NW8, 0207723 2213 or 020 7563 6100.Queen’s Park Health CentreBaby & Under 5s Clinic, Tue 9.30-11.30am &Thu 1.30-3.30pm. Dart St, W10, 020 8968 8899.Westbourne Children’s CentreChild Health Clinic, Thu 10am-12pm,and Under 1s drop-in with breastfeedingsupport, Fri 10am-12pm, Edward WilsonSchool, Senior St, W2, 020 7641 4312.Woodfield Medical CentreChild Health Clinic, Tue 2-3.30pm, call 0207266 8721. Post-natal group, Mon 2-3.30pm.Baby massage, Thu 11am-12pm, call Fionaon 020 7266 8729. Breastfeeding drop-in,Fri 10.30am-12pm, 7e Woodfield Rd, W9,call Kerry on 020 7266 8727.ACTIVITIES FOR5-19 YEAR OLDSAll activities year-round unless stated.Amberley Youth ProjectYouth club open Tue-Fri 4.30-7.30pm,activities include photography, cookery,creative art, football training, and sessionsfor under 14s and over 15s. Also indoorgames inc table tennis, pool and board games.Debates, discussions, competitions, trips,residentials and lots more. All for ages 10-21.Career Development Sessions, for age 16+,take place Tue-Fri 2.30-4.30pm. MillenniumCentre, 11 Clearwell Drive, Amberley Estate,W9, call Julie-Ann 020 8286 1014.Avenues Youth ClubActivities for ages 11+, including cooking,music, dance, computers, girls-only andmore. Also cheerleading for 10-19 yr-olds,free, Fri 4.30-5.30pm and Sat 2.30-4.30pm,call La Toya on 07508 687 285. 3-7 ThirdAve, W10, 020 8969 9552.Bayswater Families CentreServices for families in temporaryaccommodation, unsuitable housing, or on alow income, Drop-in and play Mon-Thu 2.30-4pm. Advice on benefits and housing, Mon, Wed& Fri, 12-3pm. After-school Club for 5-11 yrolds,Tue-Thu 4-6pm, with Homework Club onThu for years 3, 4 and 5. Adult education classeson computers and English, with creche, call fordetails. All classes and crèches term-time only.14-18 Newton Rd, W2, 020 7221 3290.Beethoven CentreChinese Kung Fu, for under 12s, Mon 6.30-7.30pm & Thu 6.15-7.15pm, call 07751 768391 or visit www.shaolinquanshu.com StreetDance for 5-12-yr-olds, Mon 5.15-6.15pm.Creative Dance Class, for 6-8 yrs, Tue4.45-5.45pm, call 07957 384 591 or emailcreativedance@hotmail.co.uk Children’sCapoeira, for 5-12 yrs, Sat 12-1pm. Call forcosts. 173 Third Ave, W10, 020 8969 5881,www.a2dominion.co.uk/beethovenChurch Street LibraryHomework club for 7-13 yr-olds, Thu 3.45-5.30pm. Chatterbooks book club last Fri ofthe month, 4-5pm. 97-99 Church St, NW8,020 7641 1300.Cockpit TheatreUnder 25? If you want to play Big Band Jazz,and think you’re ready to rehearse with theNational Youth Jazz Orchestra, then comealong Sat, 10am-2pm throughout the year!No auditions, no fees, but please phone first.Gateforth St, NW8. 020 7258 2925.DreamArtsActing, singing, dancing: every Sun, for 8-12sand 13-19s. £1/day, £3 non-members. TheCockpit Theatre, Gateforth St, NW8. ContactBecki on 020 7266 8262 / 07951 921 247 orbecki@dreamarts.org.ukwww.dreamarts.org.ukFlamboyan CommunityAssociationSteelband classes, Mon for 8-15 yr-olds,Wed for 16+, Fri for over 25s, all 6-8pm.Alternatively, open rehearsal sessions onSaturdays, 3-6pm. For info on these and otherprojects, drop in to 1 Fernhead Rd, MaidaGardens W9, or contact Gloria on 8969 0700/ 07854 900 645, inezg60@aol.comFourth Feathers Youth ClubMon: Girls’ Night 5.30-8.15pm, inc cooking,gym & cheerleading. Tue, Wed & Thu:Homework Club 3.30-5.15pm. Club open6-9pm, inc ICT, arts & crafts, music, skatepark, pool & table tennis. Fri: Gym 4-6pm.Club open 7-10pm. Sat: Saturday Club3-6pm. Also non-contact boxing for under17s, Wed 7-8.30pm and Fri 7.30-9.30pm.Volunteering and placements also available.12 Rossmore Rd, NW1, 020 7723 8308www.feathersassociation.org.ukKickstart Healthy Lifestyle Club12-week after school programme forchildren aged 7-12 years and their families,about healthy eating and physical activity.Takes place in various community venues,call 020 7563 6110 or email healthy.lifestyle@westminster-pct.nhs.ukKyu-Yo-Bu-ShinRunning Club, football, karate: all ongoingtraining, call for details. Trials for the MiniLondon Marathon take place 7 Mar, from9.15am, at Paddington Rec, Randolph Ave, W9,for ages 11-17. Cycling training ongoing for theLondon Youth Games in July, with KYBS trials inMay. Mentoring and Discussion Group: ongoingat Edward Wilson. Call Mary 07890 301 235.London Skills AcademyAccredited courses in Web-Design, PCRepair & Maintenance, ICT, FunctionalSkills (Numeracy & Literacy), Personal &Social Skills, Music Technology. Also tripsout, careers guidance, work and volunteerplacement. For young people aged 14-19 notin education, employment or training (NEET).Call 020 8749 6711. 123 Godolphin Rd, W12.www.lsa-edu.orgLondon TigersVarious sporting activities for children aged8+, including football, cricket, and dads &kids swimming. Also separate Muslim YouthClubs for boys and girls. Girls activitiesinclude Badminton Club (Sun 10-11amat Westminster Academy), Football Club(Mon 6-7pm at Westminster Academy),Taekwondo Club (Sat 6-8pm at St Paul’sChurch Centre), and Multisports (Thu 5-6pmat Westminster Academy). 020 7289 3395.info@londontigers.orgMaida Vale LibraryHomework club for 7-13 yr-olds, Tue 3.45-5.30pm. Sutherland Ave, W9, 020 7641 1300.Paddington ArtsPerforming arts and media workshops: forages 6-26, singing, contemporary dance, drama,steel pans, Thai boxing (for 13+). Membership£17 per year. Milkshake Discos, for 6-10 yrolds:26 Mar, 30 April, 28 May, 6.30-9pm. Foryoung people with disabilities, Planet X, a funtactile interactive installation space, £2/person,Sat 12-4pm, 6 March (call Shaun on 020 89645060). 32 Woodfield Rd, W9, 020 7286 2722,info@paddingtonarts.org.ukwww.paddingtonarts.org.ukPaddington Children’s LibraryHomework Club for 5-13 yr-olds, Mon & Fri3.45-5.15pm. Chatterbooks, Sat afternoonreading club. Free Family Learning eventswith Westminster Adult Education Service,first Sat of the month, 2-4pm (please bookin advance). Nintendo Wii every Thu, 3.45-5.15pm. All term-time only, though half-termand holiday activities are also organised, callfor details. Clifford Hall, Porchester Rd, W2,020 7641 4403/4478.Queen’s Park LibraryHomework Club for 7-13 yr-olds, Mon & Wed3.45-5.30pm; Arts Club for 8+ yrs, first Fri ofthe month, 4.30-6pm; Chatterbooks book club,second Fri of the month, 4.30-5pm for under10s, 5-6pm for 11+; Gaming Club, third Fri ofthe month 4.30-6pm; Film Club, last Fri of themonth, 4.30-6pm. World Book Day Party, 4Mar, 5.30-7pm, come dressed as your favouritecharacter, prizes on offer, food & drink, tickets£2.50. Also Easter holiday activities, call fordetails. 666 Harrow Rd, W10, 020 7641 1300.Real ActionButterfly Saturday Reading School, Sat 10am-12pm, and Sums Up! after-school maths onMon, Wed, Thu 4.30-5.30pm, both for 5-12yr-olds. Youth Life programme includes afterschool2-hour literacy and music classes forWestminster Academy pupils, Mon-Thu. Allterm-time only. The Learning Store, 3 MozartSt, W10. Katie Ivens 020 8960 2065,realaction@btconnect.comwww.realaction.org.ukSamba Street SoccerSoccer for all 4-16 yr-olds, with emphasison ball skills. Cost is £3.50/training session,which are Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri at WestminsterAcademy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2. Please callfor details of girls football. Contact AndrewAmers-Morrison on 07591 855 532.sambastreetsocceruk05@yahoo.co.ukwww.sambastreetsoccer.comStowe Youth ClubFree activities for 13-19 yr-olds, including multisports, gym, recording studio, cooking, youthenterprise (art & fashion & design), multimedia& music production, IT room, chill outroom, homework support and table tennis.Mon: 6.30-9.30pm, various activities, inc T-shirtmaking (youth enterprise), and Rainbow YouthGroup. Tue: 6.30-9.30pm, boxing (£1/session),various activities. Wed: 5.30-9pm, Muslim YouthGroup, various activities, The Cut magazine(youth enterprise). Thu: sexual health clinic, 3-6pm, with Connexions, then 6.30-9pm fashion(youth enterprise), boxing, various activities.Fri: 7-10pm, various activities. . 258 HarrowRd, W2, 020 7266 8220/1/3.Vital RegenerationApprenticeships Advice Service: careersadvice and job brokerage for 14-24 yr-oldsfrom Westminster. Sessions by appointmentat the Beethoven, Greenside Communityand Stowe Centres. Contact Daniel Williams07912 888 114, dcwilliams@cwh.org.ukwww.vitalregeneration.orgMedia Film Production Course: free 11-week course for 14-19 NEET / at-risk-of-NEET.Create short movies using latest technologiesand gain qualifications! Runs from Mon 10 May,5-8pm, 11 weeks, Beethoven Centre, 173 ThirdAve, W10. Contact Miranda 020 7245 2269,msikkens@westminster.gov.ukRe-evolve: careers service for youngpeople run by young people. Volunteer andlearn and gain accreditation. BeethovenCentre, Third Avenue, W10. Call 020 72452267 (Mon-Wed) or 020 8962 0721 (Thu-Fri), emilyb.reevolve@gmail.com or visitwww.re-evolve.ning.comMusic Production Course: free 11-weekcourse for 14-19 NEET / at-risk-of-NEET.Learn to create your own original musicusing Logic and gain qualifications! Runsfrom Tuesday 11 May, 5-8pm, 11 weeks,Beethoven Centre, 173 Third Ave, W10.Contact Miranda on 020 7245 2269 ormsikkens@westminster.gov.ukWestminster Sports UnitPromotes and delivers a range of sports andphysical activity programmes, including footballin estates and youth clubs across Westminster.020 7641 2012, sport@westminster.gov.ukwww.westminster.gov.uk/sportWigmore HallFree concert tix for 8-25 yr-olds forvarious dates Mar-May. Family events, aimedat children aged 5+, include The ThreeCornered Hat, 13 Mar, 10.30am; BaroqueIdol, 27 Mar, 10.30am; Junk Jam, 15 May,10.30am; family concert, 29 May, 11am. AlsoRNIB Family Day, for children aged 3-8who are blind or partially sighted, 22 May.Wigmore Hall, 36 Wigmore St, W1. 0207935 2141, boxoffice@wigmore-hall.co.ukwww.wigmore-hall.co.ukYouth Hub @ Cosway Street(previously Connexions)Drop-in for info and advice on a rangeof issues, from careers to education andemployment, benefits, housing, things to doand places to go, Tue & Thu 2-5pm, Wed 2-6pm. Also the Young Parents Group - shareexperiences and get 1-2-1 support, Wed 1-3pm. For 13-19 yrs (or up to 24 for peoplewith a disability or learning difficulty).Connexions Young People’s Centre, 29Cosway St, NW1, 020 7641 6133.Youth Hub @ Stowe(previously Connexions)Information and advice on education, workand training, health, housing and any otherissues you need support with, plus thingsto do and places to go: drop-in Mon-Fri10.30am-4.30pm. Sexual Health Clinic,Thu 3-6pm. All for 13-19 yrs (or up to24 for people with a disability or learningdifficulty). The Stowe Centre, 258 HarrowRd, W2, 020 7266 8230.Zumba KidsLatin-inspired dance-fitness classes, suitablefor all levels, fun for kids and adults. Thu4-5pm, WECH Community Centre, ChantryClose off Elgin Ave, W9; Mon 5-6pm,Academy Sport, Torquay St, W2. Call Sandrafor costs and more on 07732 011 963,www.zumbasandra.co.uk12 To get your youth activities listed in the children and young people’s notice board, email Sholem@pdt.org.uk13

PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTMINSTER ACADEMYAcademystudents run toraise moneyEight students fromWestminster Academy joinedEd Balls, Secretary of Statefor Children, Schools andFamilies, to run the equivalentof a marathon and raisemoney for Children In Need.In November, the studentstravelled to the Department forChildren, Schools and Familiesand met Balls in the basementgym. They each had to run atleast a mile on the treadmill, andsome of them ran two miles.Westminster Academy student,Tyrell Joseph Campbell with Ed Balls.In total 26 miles were run, theequivalent of a marathon. Over£2000 was raised for ChildrenIn Need.Westminster Academy has beenon a drive to increase the amountof physical education its studentsare doing. There are now sportsclubs before school, at lunch timeand every day after school.It has also increased the varietyof sports on offer and has girlsonlysports sessions, boxercise,golf, cricket, badminton, dance,and futsall (Brazilian stylefootball), in addition to the morecommon school sports.For information on Westminster Academyvisit www.westminsteracademy.bizFor information on the Department forChildren, Schools and Families visitwww.dcsf.gov.ukPHOTO COURTESY OF PADDINGTON ACADEMYEntrepreneur and Dragon’sDen judge Peter Jones visitedPaddington Academy in Januaryto launch this year’s Make YourMark with a Tenner challenge.The scheme loans young people £10and challenges them to make as muchprofit and social impact as they canduring the month of March. You justhave to show some enterprising spiritand make as much profit as possible ina way which benefits your community.Last year there were 16,000 under19s from schools, colleges and youthgroups across the UK taking part, andthis year there will hopefully be evenmore. The judges choose the nationalwinners in April, with an awardceremony in late April or early May.Paddington Academy studentsfrom years 10 and 11 in the SocialEnterprise Class told Peter Joneshow they’re ‘making their mark’ byproducing and selling food.They began by selling popcorn atthe Academy’s pantomime, wherethey sold out, and then reinvested theprofits to make more exciting dishesthemed around popular holidays suchas Valentine’s and Pancake Day.It’s helped them to gain a betterunderstanding of profit, market research,ethical sourcing, marketing, and ofDragon’s Den judge Peter Jones (centre) challengesPaddington Academy students to make their mark, aspart of the Make Your Mark with a Tenner challenge.A Dragon in PaddingtonPHOTO COURTESY OF PADDINGTON ACADEMYcourse, has greatly developed theircookery skills! All their profits will go toa charity at the end of the year.Students taking part in the competitionwill receive a certificate outlining theskills they develop. The winning teamwill be given some start up capitaland support from a business mentor todevelop their entrepreneurial ideas.The Make Your Mark with a Tennerproject is part of Enterprise UK’s MakeYour Mark campaign. The campaignruns groups, clubs and challenges,and offers teacher and student supportto get enterprising thinking startingin schools. There is also a furthereducation programme to continuethe work, and a project to work withdisadvantaged young people.For more information, call the Tenner Team on020 7430 8053, email tenner@enterpriseuk.orgor visit www.enterpriseuk.org/tenner For moreinformation on Paddington Academy visitwww.paddington-academy.org.ukPaddington Academy students are makingtheir mark by producing and selling food.PHOTO COURTESY OF SHIRLEY GRANAShirley Grana received an award for changing the lives of younger peopleat the Westminster City Council’s Neighbourhood Leadership Awards.And the winner is...Harrow Road NeighbourhoodPartnership (HRNP) won ‘Best UKNeighbourhood Renewal Programme2009’ in the International Journalof Neighbourhood Renewal (IJNR)Annual Awards.IJNR editor Ray Holden said, ‘Wewere delighted with the responsewe received from the people wespoke to locally about HRNP. Thisorganisation delivers real hands-onand impactful services to its residentsand is an excellent example of goodpractice in the heart of a community.’HRNP’s Neighbourhood RenewalManager Julie Bundy says, ‘Wegenuinely feel that some local issueshave begun to shift by workingtogether with both residents andbusinesses in the Harrow Road, andwe are delighted that IJNR has givenus the opportunity to celebrate this.’In an exciting start to 2010, localresident Shirley Grana was honouredfor ‘changing the lives of youngerpeople’ in Westminster CityCouncil’s Neighbourhood LeadershipAwards. Shirley won the award basedon nearly 30 years of voluntary workwith local young people, includinglife skills coaching, lecturing atschools and helping young people toaccess the arts.The four winning residents beat offtough competition from a list of 380nominations, and collected their prizesin front of dozens of community andCouncil leaders during Westminster’sPublic Services Awards Ceremony.Shirley said, ‘I was so shocked whenI found out; I really didn’t think I’dget shortlisted as there are loads ofpeople who do wonderful things. I’mso happy and proud and genuinelythrilled to know that kids I’ve knownsince they were very young andhave been through my youth accessprojects are now at university or ingreat jobs – that’s the most importantthing for me.’Well done Shirley for helping to putHarrow Road on the map! If youwould like to make your mark and getinvolved with your community, takeadvantage of HRNP’s award-winningopportunities for resident involvement.Whether you’re looking forinformation on ways to get chatting toyour neighbours or involved with localresident groups, interested in becominga ‘Streetrep’, or willing to share dinnerwith the Partnership team to advise ontheir future work, you can get involved.Visit www.harrowroadblog.com call 0208968 5543 or drop in to 421 Harrow RoadW10 to find out how you can get involved.PRERNA UPPALIt’s mybusinessQuick StitchThree months ago, SylwiaWojciechowska and hermother Mariola unveiled theiralteration and tailoring shopand it’s become an instant hitwith local residents.For Sylwia, one reason for itssuccess is its location, right in frontof a bus stop on Shirland Road.‘It caught the attention of a lotof people who catch buses fromhere. Also, it’s easy for them todrop off or pick up their orderson their way to or from home,’Sylwia says. She believes that incatering exclusively to tailoringand alteration needs, they arecarving a niche for themselves.Sylwia’s alteration andtailoring shop, QuickStitch, is an instant hitwith local residents.‘We do all kinds of alterations,including making clothes to order,bridal alterations, etc,’ says Sylwia,adding that a list of their servicescan be seen on their web site.Competitive pricing and same daydelivery on request are two otherpoints that have helped them attractcustomers. In the next couple ofmonths, Sylwia plans to start adelivery and pickup service andoffer a ‘fitting at home’ option. Shealso hopes to showcase the work oflocal designers in her shop.Quick Stitch187 Shirland Road W9020 7121 0333www.quickstitch.euOpen Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri 9am-5.30pmWed 11am-7pm and Sat 10am-3pm1415

Harrow RoadNeighbourhood Partnership newsPHOTO COURTESY OF HRNPThe All Sing! Community Choir practices onTuesday evenings at Paddington Academy.Music makes the world go roundIn briefChat MondaysChat Mondays will offerinformal talks around healthand wellbeing, volunteering,family, housing and welfare,weekly event listings andmuch more. There will be freerefreshments, music, games andsocialising. Come and makenew friends and have fun everyMon 10am-12pm at WECHCommunity Centre, ChantryClose (off Elgin Ave) W9. Fordetails call Paola on 020 89685543 or email hrnp@ghg.org.ukResidents enjoyed a trip to aconcert at Wigmore Hall lastmonth as part of the wardcouncillor funded All Sing!Community Choir.The Choir began in late 2009 asan experiment, to see if a groupof strangers could be encouragedto come together to learn, makebeautiful music and have fun.‘It’s been going really well! Wehave almost 50 singers involved,ranging from the youngest at sixto the oldest at 86,’ says IsabelleAdams, All Sing! Project Manager,who leads the choir.Meeting every Tuesday evening atPaddington Academy, the groupsings its way through a repertoireof tunes including English andIcelandic folk songs, South Africanfreedom chants, and even ‘I wentdown to the river to pray’ – aGospel song best known from thesoundtrack of the film ‘O Brother,Where Art Thou.’The choir handles three-partharmonies, solos and intricaterhythms with ease; and theenthusiasm of the participantsreally shines through in theirperformance. Isabelle describestheir most recent efforts as ‘a reallygood sound, with people reallygaining in confidence each week.’The choir members seem to havetaken a genuine interest in eachother’s lives. ‘People have reallybeen chatting,’ says Isabelle.‘There’s a real sense of everyonetrying to find out about the otherparticipants and how they came tobe here.’One participant has even bloggedabout the experience of joiningthe choir: ‘We leave the practicesessions...full of happiness with aspring in our step singing our wayhome.’On 21 March, the All Sing!Community Choir will be givingan exclusive performance atthe prestigious Wigmore Hall.Free tickets are available byphoning 020 7935 2141. Becauseof the success of the All Sing!Community Choir, Wigmore Hallis looking for a way to continue tosupport it in the future.If you are interested in other musicopportunities available locally, contactWigmore Learning on 020 7258 8240.TimeBankThe TimeBank has started andwe now share our time in thecommunity to help and gethelp with what we need, likebabysitting, gardening, dogwalking, ironing, sewing, cyclerepairs, sports training, visitingpeople, doing errands, shopping,etc. Drop in to Chat Mondays(see above) to find out howwe can help each other in theneighbourhood. TIMEBANK =TIME to GIVE & TAKE!Trying to get on theproperty ladder?Homeownership Westminster isa council service that can help.Homeownership Westminsterenables those living or workingin the City of Westminsterto be prioritised for homeownership opportunities in thearea. These include part-buypart-rent, intermediate rent andshared equity schemes. Youcan register by calling 0845437 9701 or by completing aregistration form located atwww.homeownershipwestminster. co.ukFor information on Harrow Road Neighbourhood Partnership go to www.harrowroadblog.com