Waltham Forest News, Issue 176, January 23, 2017

4.3 MB·English

by  Waltham Forest London Borough Council

What’s on
See centre
Your guide to activities, clubs and events pages
in the borough
Your Council keeping residents informed
Issue 176 23 January 2017
www.walthamforest.gov.uk @wfcouncil
Become a WALTHAM FOREST carer
Dear Resident,
Waltham Forest is lucky to have truly fantastic carers stepping forward to answer
foster carers; men and women who have gone the call in recent months, but
help is still needed. That’s why
above and beyond to offer love and support to
we’re urging anyone interested in
a child in need.
the role to fi nd out more, and see
if it could be for them.
I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to them for their
hard work transforming the lives of the children they’ve cared for WWee aarree llooookkiinngg ffoorr ccaarreerrss wwhhoo hhaavvee
and helping them to reach their full potential. the time, energy, commitment and
ssppaaccee ttoo ddoo ssoommeetthhiinngg ttrruullyy aammaazziinngg,,
It’s by no means an easy task, but fostering a child can be
ssoommeetthhiinngg tthhaatt ccoouulldd ttrraannssffoorrmm aa cchhiilldd’’ss lliiffee..
incredibly rewarding. While we do all we can to place children
with loving foster families, we’re reliant on caring residents Carers have 24/7 access to social worker support, extensive
stepping forward to welcome a young person into their home. training and a rewards package that includes a professional fee
and up to 60 per cent off Council Tax. Other benefi ts include
In recent years, many of our foster carers have opened their
membership at any of the Council’s leisure centres and access
doors to asylum-seeking children who have been left feeling
to a variety of discounts from major brand retailers.
scared and alone after fl eeing violence in their country. I would
like to pay particular tribute those carers who have given these Read on to fi nd out more about becoming a foster carer.
young people support to fl ourish here.
Cllr Grace Williams, Waltham Forest Council’s
The sad truth is that there simply aren’t enough carers available
Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
to help every child in need. We’ve seen more potential foster
www.fosteringwalthamforest.co.uk
Become a Waltham Forest foster carer
We are committed to caring for the young people in our borough who need a home – and
that’s where you come in. As a Waltham Forest foster carer you will receive a fantastic
package including:
• Payment of up to £445 per week which includes your fee in recognition • Outstanding preparation and on-going training (Ofsted commended)
of your skills
• Dedicated Social Worker and out of hours support
• Up to 60 per cent off your Council Tax bill if you live in Waltham Forest
• Support group offering friendship and learning
or a payment toward your Council Tax if you live outside of the Borough
• Allowance to help with setting up costs
• Discounted membership at any of our six leisure centres for you and
your family • Fosternet – your very own web portal giving you access to information
and training to help with your role
• Access to a lifestyle hub of Waltham Forest foster carer’s benefi ts and
discounts off major brands • Free membership of the Fostering Network – a national body for foster
carers
– Save money at over 2,000 of the UK’s favourite retailers
We will always place a local young person with a Waltham Forest carer
– Purchase discounted cinema tickets
ahead of another fostering agency.
– Find discounts on major attractions, venues and places of
interest
Please visit www.fosteringwalthamforest.co.uk for more information
GLENDORA AND HER DAUGHTERS’ STORY
Glendora has been a Waltham Forest foster carer for over seven years.
Foster carer Glendora spoke about her reasons for wanting to foster with mum I get the opportunity to let the children know they are loved beyond
Waltham Forest and said; measure. I believe every child should feel loved and appreciated for who
they are, and no matter what, we as a family will forever love them.”
“I wanted to foster because I love children, I love to care for them and to see
them develop. I was at college studying for my NVQ level 3 in child care and Philicia; “Living in a fostering household gives me the gratifi cation of seeing
we discussed fostering on my course. My fi ve children had grown up and I the children grow and learn.
knew I could make a difference. I had the space in my home so it was the
“I also enjoy sharing the responsibility of making them feel happy. I’ll always
right time for me. I live locally and wanted to help local children.”
be thankful for tips I’ve learned from being part of a fostering family as they
“I have fostered fi ve children, each of these children has stayed with me will be very useful to me personally as an adult in the future.”
for over one year and the fi fth child has been with me since June.”
“For me, the best thing about being a foster carer is seeing the difference
CASE
that I can make to a child’s life. When a child moves on, I sometimes keep
in touch. I still see my fi rst child and take gifts to him on his birthday, my
STUDY
second child was a bridesmaid at my daughter’s wedding and I recently sent
a Christmas box to my third child who now lives abroad. My fourth child’s
birth mum called to wish me a happy birthday last year.”
“I chose to foster with Waltham Forest rather than another agency because
the team are friendly and helpful and I am very happy with the support I
receive. As a Waltham Forest foster carer, I have met many people and
friends and have gained a lot of understanding from other foster carers at
the support groups. I have also learnt a lot through the specialist training
I have received. My social worker is very kind and always there
for me, because of this I feel comfortable to approach her and ask her
any questions.”
Glendora’s daughters Arleone and Philicia share their experience of living in Above: Arleone,
a fostering household: Arleone; “Living within a fostering household is fi lled daughter (left), Philicia,
with a lot of emotion. I get the chance to positively impact each and every daughter (centre) and Glendora,
one of the children we come into contact with. As a support worker to my Waltham Forest foster carer (right)
www.fosteringwalthamforest.co.uk
What’s on
See centre
Your guide to activities, clubs and events pages
in the borough
Your Council keeping residents informed
Issue 176 23 January 2017
www.walthamforest.gov.uk @wfcouncil
LGBT History Month
Waltham Forest is gearing up to
mark LGBT History Month with
events throughout February
An insightful and engaging planning their nuptials.
calendar of events has been Council Leader, Chris Robbins,
put together to help residents said: “We’re hugely proud to be such
across the borough celebrate a vibrant and diverse borough, and
the lesbian, gay, bisexual, events like these are a wonderful
transgender and questioning way to bring residents with different
and/or queer (LGBTQ) community backgrounds and beliefs together as
and its history. one community.
It has been put together by “As well as giving people a
Wood Green based arts charity chance to gain greater awareness
Wise Thoughts, which has been and understanding of the LGBTQ
commissioned by the Council to community, it also showcases the
organise an array of activities as part valuable contribution it has made
of LGBT History Month 2017. to society.”
Wise Thoughts will present a The fi nale of Waltham Forest LGBT
series of fi lm screenings, workshops History Month will be a cabaret
and authors’ talks, starting with a extravaganza at Mirth, Marvel and
Film Cafe on Monday 13 February. Maud (186 Hoe Street, E17 4QH)
Led by highly accomplished and on Friday 24 February.
experienced fi lmmaker Campbell You can follow everything that’s
X, known around the world for her going on, and show your support,
feature fi lm ‘Stud-life’, the event will using #GFESTbytes on Twitter.
offer advice to young, upcoming
LGBTQ fi lmmakers.
More info
In addition, the Council will be
hosting its fi rst-ever ‘Pink’ Wedding Tickets for events can be booked
Fair at the William Morris Gallery online via Eventbrite. Visit www.
(Forest Road, E17 4JF) from 10am eventbrite.co.uk and search
Events to mark LGBT History Month include a fantastic cabaret
to 5pm on Saturday 4 February. The ‘gfestbytes’. To see the full extravaganza on Friday 24 February
event will give LGBTQ couples a programme of events, visit www.
chance to fi nd out what the Georgian walthamforest.gov.uk/LGBT-
mansion has to offer, should they be history-month.
Fantastic new 5 star facility offering
Spa Café Sports Hall
Gym Soft Play Athletics Track
Find out more at
Extreme Sports Zone Pools and Diving FeelGoodWalthamForest.com
News
2
Engagement in action
n  Local people hear about work of
the Prevent team
n  Community event took place last
month
the different safeguarding work an opportunity for questions to be
carried out by community safety asked of the Council’s Prevent team
officers, those in attendance had the to talk about local projects, provide
opportunity to ask questions and put reassurance that the programme is
forward their own views. voluntary and pre-criminal, address
A presentation was delivered misunderstandings about Prevent,
by Council officers about the and to explain how to access further
safeguarding aims of the national advice and support through the
The prevent programme aims to stop extremisim of all kinds. Cllr Liaquat Ali MBE Prevent programme, which aims local Channel Panel.
JP, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Cohesion, met Minister of State to stop people from supporting Follow-up meetings have been
for Security at the Home Office, Ben Wallace MP, to discuss Prevent during a terrorism or becoming terrorists. It arranged to ensure engagement is
ministerial visit last November was followed by a discussion about ongoing.
how the community can get more
More info
involved.
Members of Waltham Forest’s of radicalisation after inviting attendance at Waltham Forest Town During the event, some audience For more information about the
Somalian community learned the borough’s Prevent team to a Hall (Town Hall Complex, Forest members shared their opinions Council’s Prevent work, visit
more about the work the Council special event. Road, E17 4JF) last month for the about radicalisation risks and the www.walthamforest.gov.uk/
does to support people at risk In the region of 60 people were in event. As well as hearing about impact it can have. There was also content/prevent.
In my opinion Helen Bigham
Business Development Manager – The Mill, Walthamstow
Recently I joined The Mill, run by residents who want to make people really care about it. Not just role, to be part of the team that could join as a volunteer or have
a volunteer-led community the St James end of Walthamstow a few people, but the vast majority, develops more activities, groups an idea on a group or activity that
space in Walthamstow, as Market a better place to live in. and for them to be willing to work and many other opportunities. I’ve you’d like to run? I’d love to have
its Business Development The Mill is built on a strong together to keep it going and help enjoyed a warm welcome but it’s a chat, hear your suggestions and
Manager. Open to the public foundation of community spirit it grow. not just me that feels included. I help you grow your idea. Pop into
throughout the week, everyone and welcoming new ideas, which To create a better place for can see that everyone goes out of the Mill at 7–11 Coppermill Lane,
is welcome to drop in, read the means the space can be used in everyone, local people and their way to embrace and welcome Walthamstow, E17 7HA, phone
papers, view art exhibitions, very positive ways. The Mill values businesses have to be prepared to all visitors regardless of age, culture 020 8521 3211 or email me at
join a group or activity or the importance of residents coming give their time and energy. There and background. [email protected].
use the Children’s Room. in, but more importantly to keep needs to be a sense of pride in the But don’t take my word for it, You can also visit www.themill-
Ultimately, The Mill aims to be them coming back again and again. neighbourhood and an acceptance come along and find out more coppermill.org.
E17’s friendliest living room! The Mill relies on the community and tolerance of each other; not about what’s on offer. Maybe you
The Mill does things slightly to help make it a success. Local just among any close-knit group.
Want to have your say?
differently. We don’t run services people and businesses alike need The Mill is fortunate to have a
or decide what goes on; instead to be active participants in building group of people committed and If you live or work in Waltham Forest, have something you’d like to get off
we provide the space and the a strong, sustainable and enriching dedicated to make it a great place your chest, and can do it in around 350 words; Waltham Forest News wants
resources for activities and community. The Mill can only to visit. Watching them in action to hear from you. Email [email protected] and tell
everything that happens here is provide an effective venue if local influenced me to take on my new us what you’d like to write about.
Contact Waltham Forest Council Waltham Forest News
Editor: Jenny Singh Advertising and promotional Their inclusion does not mean that
enquiries: the council endorses the company or
Waltham Forest News wants to
Mica Marshall 020 8496 3000 (press 6) product being advertised.
hear from people in the local
[email protected]
community. If you have a story Waltham Forest News is produced using
that you’d like us to cover, email Waltham Forest Council does not trees from sustainable managed forests
walthamforestnews accept responsibility for the content where more trees are planted than
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Waltham Forest News. News when you have finished with it.
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Waltham Forest News is published fortnightly by London Borough of Waltham Forest with a print run of 110,000 copies delivered
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More services
The official independently audited free letterbox delivery of Waltham Forest News is 97,198 ABC Regional Dec 2014 to Dec 2015
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Issue 176 I 23 January 2017 33
www.walthamforest.gov.uk
Library Local consultation
In brief
Better Boilers
Residents are being urged to and community use; and space Locals, and are undertaking further to ensure that future improvements
have their say on proposed and flexibility to accommodate consultation with the community to Library Locals will help to create The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is
improvements to Library Local events and activities. about future plans to make sure a library service for the whole urging home owners living in fuel poverty
branches in the borough, before You have until Tuesday we’ve been as clear as possible community. to find out if they are eligible for a grant
the consultation closes on 31 January to complete the about potential improvements,” Residents deserve a high quality, for a new boiler under his Better Boilers
Tuesday 31 January. consultation survey. The Council’s said Cllr Sharon Waldron, Cabinet 21st Century library service that scheme, which was launched last
The Council’s vision for Library preferred improvement option is Member for Digital and Customer meets their needs and is easily December. The pilot scheme – which is
Locals is for them to match up to that the Library Locals at Higham Services. accessible.” being funded to the tune of £1million –
the best public libraries in London, Hill and Wood Street would be “We know how well-loved our will help 500 fuel-poor owner-occupiers
with no reduction in the number relocated and remodelled into more library service is – something to keep warm this winter by replacing
of branches and no resident living modern and accessible buildings clearly evidenced by the response or repairing their inefficient and broken
further than 1.5 miles from their that are closer to other community to our consultation so far. That’s Take part boilers with new ‘A-rated’ ultra-low
nearest library. facilities, while the site at Lea why we’re committed to making To take part in the consultation emission appliances. To be eligible to
The proposals include upgraded Bridge would be refurbished. our library service better at a time before it closes on Tuesday apply you must be the homeowner and
ICT facilities; self-service “We’ve been listening to when neighbouring authorities are 31 January, visit www. live in the property, and be in receipt of
technology; spaces for personal residents’ views about our vision reducing theirs. walthamforest.gov.uk/ benefits such as Pension Credit, Child
Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income
study; meeting spaces for library for Waltham Forest’s Library “Through this process we want libraryconsultation.
Support, Job Seekers Allowance or
Universal Credit. Having a new boiler
Nominate your local heroes could help you save £340 on your
heating bill and save as much as 20 per
cent energy on heating.
• For more information, or to apply, visit
https://betterboilers.london.gov.uk/.
Lea Valley
Eastside
consultation
Residents are being reminded to have
their say on the Council’s vision for
Lea Valley Eastside before the public
consultation closes on Tuesday 31
January. The vision sets out a plan for
how the Leyton and Lea Bridge area could
change over the next decade. The vision
covers an area as large as the City of
London, sitting between the Lea Valley and
the Olympic Park. The scheme will see the
creation of nearly 4,500 new homes along
with business space which will generate
thousands of new jobs for local people
by re-invigorating Lea Bridge, Church
Road and Leyton. The Vision also includes
the Lea Valley Regional Park Authority’s
ambition for a new, state-of-the-art, twin
AFC Leyton Girls won the Sporting Inspiration Award at the 2016 pad ice rink and redevelopment of the
Love Your Borough Awards Water Works Centre for residential use,
balanced by improvements to the Park’s
accessibility, landscape and ecological
value. The former Thames Water site is
Do you know an unsung hero Volunteer Group or Individual Borough Awards are funded by in Waltham Forest that much better
also shown as a potential regeneration
who gives up their free time to Volunteer of the Year, Improving sponsors, enabling the community for the rest of us.
opportunity with the return of a significant
help others? Or perhaps you’d Your Neighbourhood, Sports celebration to be held without “While we have grand ambitions
part of the site to open space use as part
like to give your thanks to a local Inspiration, Arts and Culture and placing a financial burden on for the borough, we know that
of any scheme. Both proposals, if they are
group or organisation which has Making Waltham Forest Safer. council tax payers. these initiatives would mean
progressed, would require limited release
made a real difference within There are also two special Council Leader, Chris Robbins, nothing without the support and of some Metropolitan Open Land which
your community? awards given out by the Leader told Waltham Forest News: “The cooperation of these extraordinary would be subject to a detailed planning
If so, the good news is that you of the Council – the Leader’s Love Your Borough Awards local people.” application process. All comments on the
can now nominate them in the Love Individual Award and the Leader’s celebrate the tireless work that Vision will be taken into account before
Your Borough Awards 2017, which Business Award. Full descriptions residents, businesses, groups and the final version is taken to Cabinet later
celebrate the work that residents, of each category are listed on the charity organisations do to make More info this year.
groups, businesses, charities Council’s website, so it’s easy for our borough a better place to live • To take part in the consultation
and the emergency services do you to nominate your community and work. For more information, and to fill visit http://walthamforest-consult.
in a nomination form, visit www.
to improve the quality of life of champions for the correct award. “Though the nominees may limehouse.co.uk/portal/leabridge/
walthamforest.gov.uk/content/
everyone living in Waltham Forest. Nominations for the awards close come from many different walks of leyton. For further information on
love-your-borough-awards-2017.
You can nominate in 10 different on Monday 20 March, so make life, the common theme is that they regeneration projects in Waltham
To find out more about sponsorship
categories, including Citizen of sure you take the time to get in have all given something back to Forest, visit www.walthamforest.gov.
opportunities, email Michael.
the Year, Uniformed Service Hero, touch before then. The Love Your their local community and make life uk/content/regeneration-projects.
[email protected].
Priorities
4
Better homes for all residents
The Council has four key priorities to help improve the lives of everyone who lives and
works in Waltham Forest. In this edition we look at what is being done to improve housing
standards for the benefit of all residents
Cllr Limbajee recently visited one of the garage
developments
Heating systems are being updated in three Loft conversions are being carried out at
tower blocks overcrowded Council properties
Making sure that everyone families have to move to a different efficient gas-fired heating systems. Council-owned garage sites into who wish to continue living on the
is able to live in good quality part of the borough. St David’s Court, St Patrick’s Court new affordable housing for local estate will be able to move into
accommodation is a key aim The loft conversions will give and St George’s Court, which each people. The homes are being their new homes. The scheme is
for Waltham Forest Council, families the additional space they have around 50 households, are delivered in phases, and the first scheduled to be fully completed by
whether you live in privately need, and they don’t need to move currently supplied with heating phase of 42 new social rent homes late 2021.
rented accommodation, out while work is taking place. and hot water by electric night is on track for completion in the A temporary play area has been
rent a Council home or are next few months. created within the Marlowe Road
looking to, or already own New homes are being buil t to high sustainability The homes will be built to high Estate, following the closure of
your own property. We are sustainability standards, using the play area within the plaza. The
standards, using modern technology to keep
investing in a number of modern technology such as temporary play area is located
programmes to provide new residents’ energy bills low . condensing gas boilers to help on Marlowe Road next to the
homes across the borough and keep residents’ energy bills as low Lord Brook pub, and will be in
improve conditions in existing The Council has identified around storage heaters and immersion hot as possible. place whilst the first stages of the
properties. 30 properties that are suitable water tanks which are inefficient, regeneration are undertaken.
for improvements as part of the expensive to run and difficult to Marlowe Road Once the early stages of the
Loft Conversions programme. The first conversions control. Regeneration estate’s redevelopment have been
Work is now underway on a are due to be completed in early To improve efficiency these are Enabling works are underway completed it will include a total of
programme of loft conversions 2017, and work on all properties being replaced with new communal on the Marlowe Road regeneration 2,500m2 of play provision, including
for Council properties, which will will be completed within the next gas-fired heating systems. Not only programme, which is being a multi-use games area.
help to combat overcrowding and two years. All conversion work is will this be a more efficient system, delivered by the Council in
prevent families from having to being carried out by Aston Group it will also be cheaper to run and partnership with Countryside. The
move away from their homes. The on the Council’s behalf. give residents more control over scheme will deliver 436 new homes,
scheme has been introduced to their energy usage. including 168 new homes for social
help families that have been placed Fuel Switching rent and shared ownership. The first
on the transfer list as they are living The Council has also started Garage Regeneration phase of the scheme, which will More info
in overcrowded conditions. Waiting work on a project to update the Scheme see 103 new homes built, is due for
For more information on housing
for a suitable larger property can heating and water supplies in Work is continuing on an completion in Autumn 2018 – at this
in Waltham Forest visit www.
take a long time, and may mean three of its tower blocks with new ambitious programme to transform stage a number of existing residents
walthamforest.gov.uk/housing.
Issue 176 I 23 January 2017 5
www.walthamforest.gov.uk
What you say
Residents tell Waltham Forest News what they think about the Council’s efforts to build
more affordable homes and protect tenants
Martina Deere and Ann Killoran, Chingford Robbie Walford, Chingford Elizabeth Clark, Chingford Bircan Findik, Chingford
“My major thought is that my “I don’t think the Council should “What I don’t like seeing is empty “I think the Council is trying. I
children have had to buy homes be building more homes. I’ve buildings. Why are they being think the focus should be more
outside of London. Even shared lived in Chingford for 18 years, left until they are practically on affordable homes that people
ownership was not possible for and I think you can over-build falling down before anyone does can buy outright – that would be
them. I would like to see the and over-populate and that anything with them? It’s very good a better approach. I also think
Council developing schemes takes away from the community. if the Council can expand existing the landlord licensing scheme is
that offer low cost homes for But I do think it’s fantastic if the housing to prevent people from a good idea – it’s right to tackle
existing residents to buy. More Council can crack down on rogue facing the risk of having to move irresponsible landlords.”
needs to be done to help working landlords that don’t care about out of the borough, away from
residents.” tenants.” their families.”
Priority: Priority: Help all of our residents enjoy a
good quality of life
We will support affordable housing
for everyone’s needs
Housing
Commitment:
Priority: We will keep your neighbourhood
• Deliver a private sector landlord licensing scheme which
benefi ts tenants by improving standards and makes the clean and safe
area better for those who live around them
• B uild new council homes for Waltham Forest residents in
work
• E ncourage new houses to be built where they can deliver Priority: We will help build a strong local
prosperous communities with access to the local services
economy and thriving town centres
and infrastructure they need
• B uild more specialist houses which allow older residents to
stay in a home of their own with the support they need to
be independent
www.walthamforest.gov.uk/priorities
6
In brief
My Account
You can access a growing number of
Council services online using your My
Account, and it only takes a few minutes
to sign up. Once you have registered for
an account you will be able to do things
like booking a large item collection,
reporting a missed bin collection or
reporting fly-tipping, all at the touch of
a button or click of a mouse, 24 hours a
day, seven days a week. You will also be
able to find information about services
available near to where you live, suited
especially to you. New services are being
added to My Account all the time, so sign
up today and see what you can do via the
Council website!
• To sign up for a My Account visit
www.walthamforest.gov.uk/my-
account.
The Council has held enforcement days to check privately-rented properties are licensed and offer
good living standards for tenants
OrganicLea
to grow
An exciting 2017 is in store for Waltham Raising standards in
Forest-based food growing cooperative
OrganicLea, after they received funding
from Power to Change, the organisation
set up to grow and support community
businesses in England. The grant will help
rented properties
to refurbish the glasshouse, kitchen and
toilets at OrganicLea’s growing site in
Chingford, providing more opportunities to
volunteer and learn about food growing.
A new video has also been produced
about OrganicLea’s weekly box scheme,
which is available to view on their website. n  Nearly 20,000 privately rented properties in the borough are now licensed
A new pickup point for the scheme has
n  Council is actively enforcing the scheme and prosecuting rogue landlords
been opened on Coppermill Lane, which
makes it easy for cycling commuters to
collect from on their way home. The Private Rented Property licensing is making a real difference, breaches of planning regulations – Walthamstow, which means it takes
• For more information, visit Licensing (PRPL) scheme and with our proactive approach such as ‘beds in sheds’. over management of the property
www.organiclea.org.uk. introduced by Waltham Forest to enforcement we are driving up When licensing issues are due to the landlord’s refusal to
Council in 2015 is continuing to living standards for people renting identified the Council seeks operate responsibly. This includes
Spring Clean drive up housing standards in privately in Waltham Forest. to work with landlords to help collecting rent and arranging for any
the borough and help to reduce “The majority of landlords them operate lawfully, but it repairs to be carried out. Any costs
announced anti-social behaviour. operating in the borough are will not hesitate to prosecute covered by the Council are then
The scheme requires every responsible, and are co-operating if warnings are ignored. Since deducted from the rent it received
This year’s Waltham Forest Spring Clean privately rented property in with us, but we are taking strong February 2016 the Council has while acting as landlord.
will take place over three days between the borough to have a licence, action against the minority who successfully prosecuted over Through its enforcement days
Friday 17 and Sunday 19 March. More which has a set of conditions refuse to comply with the scheme 50 private landlords, with courts programme the Council has also
than 10,000 local volunteers have taken which landlords must adhere to. and are putting the lives of their ordering fines and costs of around issued around 1,000 notices to
part in the annual Spring Clean since it Landlords who refuse to license tenants at risk. Through licensing £150,000 in total. properties with issues such as dirty
began in 2011, carrying out litter picking, their properties or meet the we are also able to insist that A number of landlords have front gardens, and further action
bulb planting, painting and pruning to conditions can be prosecuted. landlords take a more responsive also been prosecuted for refusing can be taken against owners if
help brighten up their communities. This The Council has issued nearly and ‘hands on’ approach to to license their properties, and improvements are not made. During
year we are looking for fresh ideas to 20,000 licences since the launch property management, which helps there have also been a number of enforcement days Council officers
help spruce up our local areas. Anyone of the scheme, and applications to reduce demand on Council cases involving serious breaches have also taken action against other
can take part, including individuals, are still being processed on a resources.” of licence conditions. This includes offences such as fly-tipping, graffiti
schools, community groups, businesses daily basis. The Council has Since launching PRPL the a landlord being ordered to pay and abandoned vehicles to make
and housing associations. The Council also launched a programme of Council has carried out visits to over £7,000 in fines and costs our streets cleaner and safer.
can help by providing equipment such
enforcement days which take over 26,000 properties across the following a potentially fatal fire
as litter pickers and gardening tools.
place across the borough, helping borough. This has helped to identify at a property in Leyton, which
• If you’d like to get involved in this
to identify properties that are not a number of rented properties that highlighted serious issues with
year’s Spring Clean, email your event
licensed or require improvements require a licence or improvement overcrowding and a lack of proper More info
idea to [email protected].
to ensure tenants are living safely. to their living conditions. This can fire precautions.
uk. You can also help spread the For more information on Private
Cllr Khevyn Limbajee, Cabinet range from simple repairs to more In October 2016 the Council
word on Twitter using the hashtag Rented Property Licensing, visit
Member for Housing, told Waltham serious issues like overcrowding, also enforced its first Interim
#WFSpringClean17. www.walthamforest.gov.uk/
Forest News: “Our landlord lack of fire precautions and serious Management Order at a house in
PRPL.
Issue 176 I 23 January 2017 7
EVERY STREET CLEANED AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK www.walthamforest.gov.uk
Fining the fl y-tippers
In brief
n  Waltham Forest leads the way on punishing fl y-tippers Design
n  New powers have already led to over 150 fi nes for enviro-criminals Awards 2017
authorities. the full range of sanctions they can Builders, architects, owners and
Cllr Clyde Loakes, Deputy utilise in punishing enviro-criminals. tenants are being encouraged to enter
Leader and Cabinet Member for Issuing FPNs allows offi cers new building projects in the 2017
Waltham Forest Design Awards. The
Environment, said: “Waltham Forest to deal with low-level fl y-tipping
awards are open to all new buildings,
lobbied government to introduce offences without having to take
conversions, restorations, extensions
FPNs for fl y-tipping a number of court action. The Council is also
and environmental improvements such
years ago, so it’s good to see we prosecuting enviro-criminals who
as landscaping, public art and street
are at the forefront in using these refuse to pay their FPNs. The fi rst
improvements completed in the borough
powers to punish enviro-criminals. case to come to court resulted in
since 2014. The awards aim to celebrate
We have issued over 150 FPNs for the offender being ordered to pay
the best new buildings and places found
fl y-tipping, and have also secured £1,100 in fi nes and costs.
in Waltham Forest. The winners will be
our fi rst prosecution of someone The Council will still seek picked by a judging panel that includes
who refused to pay their £400 fi ne, prosecution for more serious fl y- representatives from the Royal Institute
with more prosecutions due to tipping offences, which can lead to of British Architects and the Royal Town
come to court shortly. heavier fi nes, custodial sentences Planning Institute. Your nomination should
“Unlike many other councils, we and vehicles being seized and include photographs or illustrations. Full
The Council is taking tough action against fl y-tippers
are not taking the option of issuing crushed. Waltham Forest was details on how to make a nomination are
a reduced fi ne for early payment, one of the fi rst councils to crush available on the Council website. Entries
so anyone we catch can expect a a vehicle that had been used for must be submitted by 12noon on Friday
bill for the full £400. The fi nes help fl y-tipping, and the offender was 10 February, so make sure you don’t
A recent report has found that up to £400 to anyone caught in the to cover the cost of clearing and also handed a six-week suspended miss the deadline. An awards ceremony
Waltham Forest is leading the act of fl y-tipping. disposing of the fl y-tips, reducing prison sentence. will take place in spring.
way when it comes to utilising A Freedom of Information the burden on law abiding tax- • For further information, and
new powers to punish fl y- (FOI) request made by the Press payers.” to make a nomination, visit
tippers. Association in December found This year the Council will be www.walthamforest.gov.uk/
In spring 2016 new powers that Waltham Forest has issued the working with others in national More info designawards2017. Free internet
access is available in all Waltham
were introduced by government second highest number of FPNs and local government to lobby for For more information, and to
Forest Libraries.
which allows councils to issue fi xed in the country since the powers even tougher penalties, as well as report enviro-crimes, visit www.
penalty notices (FPNs) with a fi ne of were introduced, out of 302 local reminding the judicial system of walthamforest.gov.uk/mystreet.
Consultation on our proposals for Library Locals
As part of our Vision for Library Locals we propose to relocate Higham Hill and
Wood Street Libraries and remodel Lea Bridge Library.
In response to your feedback from our recent consultation, we have created an
additional survey that asks for your views on the proposals to relocate libraries,
Additional
sets out the other options that have been considered, and gives you the opportunity
Survey
to provide your view on any alternative options you would like to be considered.
We have extended the consultation period in order for residents to complete this
survey, and the original survey will remain available to complete during this time.
Even if you don’t use the library service, we’d still really like to hear your views on
our proposals – so please do complete this new survey.
The consultation period has been extended until 31 January 2017.
www.walthamforest.gov.uk/libraryconsultation
What’s On
8
welcome. First term free to new members. Zumba with Zoe Acupuncture and Women Only Outdoor
Sports and For more information, phone [phone]
Wednesdays, 7.30pm Medical Massage Boot Camp course
2926 or 020 8514 8771 or visit www.
fitness The Cornerstone Centre, 149 Canterbury Monday to Sunday, by appointment Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday,
blackhorseandstandard.org.uk.
Road, E10 6EH 4 Church Lane, Leytonstone, E11 1HA 6.30–7.15am
Classes are great fun, an excellent way Acupuncture and Tui Na (Chinese medical Walthamstow Town Hall Grounds, Forest
Pilates
Pilates in Leyton to keep fit, lose weight and every class massage) can be used to treat a range of Road, E17 4JF
Wednesdays, Fridays, 9.30–10.30am
Thursdays, 6–7pm and 7–8pm feels like a party. Zumba is your physical and emotional problems including Fun and exciting six week boot camp
and Tuesdays, 6.15pm and 7.15pm
Leyton Parish Church Hall, Lindley Road, opportunity to express yourself and back and knee pain, arthritis, headaches, programme with fitness tests, nutrition
St Edmunds Church Hall, Chingford Mount
E10 5PY unleash your ‘Latin within’! £5 per class. insomnia, depression, anxiety, addictions, screening, food diary analysis, weekly
Road, E4 8JL
Drop-in Pilates classes for all, including Email [email protected] or visit nausea and eating disorders. The treatment accountability emails/calls. It’s basically
A lovely class; friendly and relaxing,
new complete beginners class from 6pm www.zumbazoe.co.uk. is generally pain free with few side effects personal training in a small group
beginners welcome. Drop in fee £8 or book
and general level at 7pm. £10 per class, or and may benefit both acute and chronic environment. Guaranteed results or your
in advance £7 (five classes for £35). For
buy 10 in advance and get one free. Mats Yoga for Every Body conditions. Our therapists are fully qualified money back. For more information phone
more information, phone Samantha on
and small equipment provided. Pilates can 07910 991 695 or email samcam0309@ Every Tuesday, 6.15–7.30pm members of the British Acupuncture me on 07717 330 993 or email vibe.
improve your strength, flexibility, balance, gmail.com. Leyton Sixth Form College, Essex Road, Council. To book an appointment, or free [email protected].
coordination, bone density, reduce pain and E10 6EQ consultation, phone [phone] or
encourage relaxation. Pilates Foundation Sallyanne has been teaching Yoga since email [email protected]. Women Only Zumba
member teacher with 15 years’ experience 1994 and skilfully adapts the moves to Class
of studio and mat work. Absolute beginners suit everybody. Come and learn to relax Gentle Yoga Tuesdays, 7.30–8.30pm
and newcomers contact me first please. and recharge while building up strength, Mondays, 6–7pm St Andrews Church, St Andrews Road,
Email [email protected] or visit flexibility, poise and peace. Supports and The Mill, 7–11 Coppermill Lane, E17 7HA E17 6AR
www.abpilates.co.uk. accelerates any mindfulness practice and Gentle yoga class; great for beginners, Exhilarating class with loads of fun
IS wholehearted, whole body mindfulness. health issues, newbies or anyone and toning in the process. Enjoy your
Football Fans in Beginners welcome! For more wanting a small, friendly, relaxing yoga body changing shape whilst listening to
Training information, phone Sallyanne on 020 class. We learn simple physical poses International sounds. Special offer for
Mondays, 6.30–8.30pm 8520 7242 or 07952 307 455 or visit to improve posture and general physical new comers! OAPs an unemployed £4 a
The Matchroom Stadium, Oliver Road, www.goldenyoga.co.uk. and mental well-being, with a calming session. For more information phone
E10 5JY relaxation to finish. £10 drop-in or £9 me on 07717 330 993 or email vibe.
Are you a man aged 30–65 years old? Yogi J – Yoga for You! with a loyalty card, £5 concessions. Email [email protected].
Is your waist 38 inches or bigger? Do Mondays, 7–8pm [email protected] or phone
you want to lose weight, have a healthier St Michael’s Church Hall, Northcote Road, 07554 440 499. West Essex Ramblers
lifestyle and ultimately be fitter? Our new E17 6PQ Days and times vary
12 week programme, starting 13 February, Wake Up and Stretch A friendly, local class open to all. James is Ashtanga Yoga We meet for at least four walks a week,
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co.uk or visit www.yogamehappy.co.uk.
leytonorienttrust.org.uk. Email [email protected]. Zumba® Fitness
Man v Fat Football Walthamstow Wind Saturdays, 10am
Wednesdays from 25 January, 7–9pm Down Pilates YMCA East London, 642 Forest Road,
Mondays, 6.15pm E17 3EF
SCORE, 100 Oliver Road, E10 5JY Thursdays, 7–8.15pm
St Gabriel’s Family Centre Small Hall, Wear low tread, supportive trainers
A 5 a side football league for guys who Quaker Meeting House, 1a Jewel Road,
Havant Road, E17 3JF and bring a bottle of water to enjoy this
want to lose weight. If your waist is 38 E17 4QU
Thursdays, 7.30pm exhilarating dance fitness class in a low
inches or more and you’re aged 18+ Hatha yoga for all abilities. This post-work
St Anne’s Church Hall, Larkshall Road, pressure atmosphere! £6 drop in, discounts
you’re eligible to join. Every player is in the wind down will stretch and tone the
E4 6NP available for advance payment. For more
same situation and wants the same thing muscles, working through the joints, so
Do you want to get into exercise but info, phone [phone], email
– to enjoy football, lose weight and get you’ll feel flexible and fantastic, before a
don’t know where to start? Do you want [email protected] or visit www.
healthier. Uniquely, the league is decided deep relaxation to re-energise you for the
to build up your strength and help your DanceChloe.com.
not just on points won, but pounds lost. We weekend. £9 if pre-booked, or £10 to drop
body to work at its best? Come and try a
give support to every player with unique in. For further information, email eliza@
resources, inspiration and support to help yogamehappy.co.uk or visit www. beginners Pilates class which will help you Legs, Bums and Tums
to strengthen your body and increase your
you lose weight, get fitter and enjoy the yogamehappy.co.uk. Saturdays, 11.15am
flexibility in a friendly, relaxed environment.
beautiful game. Phone Phill Smith on YMCA East London 642 Forest Road,
020 8556 5973, email phillip.smith@ Waltham Forest Reiki Email [email protected] to book E17 3EF (our brand new location!) Clubs and
your space.
leytonorienttrust.org.uk or visit www. Project LBT is a fantastic way to tone your
community
manvfatfootball.org/Home/Registration. Tuesday 7 February, 7–8.45pm KAPAP Self Defence eanttteirnet iobno dfyo cwuisthe do fo nco yuorusre ,l esgpse,c gialul tes
Waltham Forest Community Hub,
Morris Dancing for Tuesdays, 6.15–7.15pm and abdominal muscles. Combining
18A Orford Road, E17 9LN ‘Divestival’ celebration
Beginners Reiki is a form of healing that works with LSepyotrotsn CSeixnthtr eF,o Ermss eCxo Rlleogaed,, CEo1m0 m6EuQnity creodnudciteio fnaitn wg hainlsdt asheraopbinicg eaxnedrc liisfteinsg t oy our Saturday 28 January, 3pm onwards
Wednesdays, 8–10pm the life force energy that flows through all KAPAP is a cutting edge self defence legs, bum and tum! Bring a bottle of water Waltham Forest Town Hall, Forest Road,
St Gabriel’s Family Centre (back hall), living things. When one’s energy is free system. KAPAP gives you the opportunity and wear clothes you’re comfortable to E17 4JF
Havant Road, E17 3JF flowing without blocks one is in balance to get fit, become stronger and confident, move in. £6 drop in, discounts available Friends of the Earth Waltham Forest will
BMaafrttli aoetocrnrurakdirsdhl y Biodt irewoasgnnaeiacyn ael n onrEefsdn r k sgiSne’l itveEsaipthvneie nd Mnygaoio rnfidurgrt .Wi.t s oNA o d‘ omHfa ueanenxvcn peai’nes nag rd i eG noc’ e bHwwmoahaatvlahskett e piwanrhns eys. sopcAipoaclletan sanl ldry aem,od e mwifnmoedirnol ,cyi tscoiootomuenm.rae eTel.dl hy F ae boalyoyrn n adqmgr uem oaa orlneienfidn ee tisand2el folyoen. , e ws£fieerm5hsl fitpal sdleietle r sl fbesceraolnuarncnsn esiftn r,os egcnye osja.l nt @Fepcomreyarsa. c smhCtiioocoonaomrsl.e ce a f oionan.rdnuf osdketr uftmofrdeyraec. pnttOiihvtonseon l yn, e fpdDohaarn onanccdeeevc Ca0hnh7lclo9oee0e .p.3cca oo6ymmm29 e.o n6rt 3.v F6iso, irte mwmawoirwle c .ihnlfooe, @ bFtcgoaoea mr tdhheipvoseetalrd siCfgitono nrfgur e aonra mscnp,i h lre’fsoeov tssepoisndegitlner afnstuopitoes hcn l sae a.fnl nueCddbn o rdstuath’suntee dcdn ieWel lnmocatrisalsst ikh,ow eani ml l
necessary, just come along and have a email walthamforestreikiproject@gmail. KAPAPJason on 07905 132 595. a short walk to the East London YMCA
go. Musicians – male or female – also com or phone [phone].