A fantastic new space for the community
Last week, I was invited to the launch of the Basement Arts Centre at Chingford Overground Station. It has been made possible by the hard work of Roger Brown and the Love North Chingford group and is a fantastic new space for the community. I’m so pleased we were able to support it financially as part of our work to improve neighbourhoods, and I’m looking forward to seeing that work continuing with help of the Levelling Up funding we’ve received from central government. I can’t wait to see the improvements planned for Highams Park, Chingford Mount and Walthamstow town centre in the coming years. And do check out the exhibitions at the Basement Arts Centre when you can.
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This week sees the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the NHS. I know you will join me in thanking the wonderful NHS staff who work so hard for us under often difficult circumstances. The recent confirmation from the government that it will fund the creation of a new, refurbished Whipps Cross means that they will finally have the state of the art hospital to work in that they – and we – deserve.
In July 1995 thousands of Muslim men and boys were murdered and buried in mass graves in the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. This week, in the run up to Srebrenica Memorial Day on Tuesday 11 July, we are flying the Remembering Srebrenica flag over Fellowship Square, and the Town Hall will be illuminated green and white each evening until the anniversary. We once welcomed people fleeing the atrocities in the Balkans to Waltham Forest until it was safe for them to return, or they chose to stay to become part of our community. Today, we continue to welcome people seeking safety. I mentioned recently how I had written to the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, asking the Government to better protect vulnerable people in Waltham Forest seeking asylum, and while there is still conflict and persecution in the world, we will continue to speak up for those who don’t have a voice.
Grace
Cllr Grace Williams, Leader of Waltham Forest Council
A flag to mark the anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre will fly all week
Click the postcode nearest you to find events coming up around the borough.
The Mayor meets residents, members of Love North Chingford and local councillors at the launch
Last Thursday, 29 June, Mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr Roy Berg, attended the opening of the North Chingford Arts Basement, a newly-renovated community room, workspace and arts venue in Chingford Overground station. Roger Brown, and other members of the Love North Chingford community group, joined the Mayor following their tireless work to make the hub a reality. The space was refurbished with money raised locally, along with contributions from the Council, National Lottery organisations and Arriva Rail London. The hub is available to hire by community groups and schools, as well as offering a gallery and teaching space.
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Waltham Forest now has over 50 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) across the borough. By using an AED within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest, the chances of the person affected surviving increases by more than 40 per cent – and you don't need formal training to use one. Locations include pubs such as the Kings Ford at Chingford Mount and the Rockwood Village in Cann Hall, all Council-run leisure centres, sports clubs and stations. Some have been made possible by Community Ward Funding payments while others are part-funded by charities, including the British Heart Foundation (BHF) (applications are currently closed but re-open in October) and AEDDonate. Central government has committed to increasing funding for AEDs.
Hopefully you will never need to use one, but if you do, the St John Ambulance has guidance on using a defibrillator on its website. And if you have an AED for public use and it's not yet registered on the BHF's database, please do so here.
Leytonstone is bursting with things to do as Summer in the Stone returns.
Head south to find live music, film, games, art and performances, as well as some incredible businesses offering live music, arts, fitness, wellbeing, delicious food from around the world and plenty of exciting evening venues, including amazing restaurants and bars across E11 and surrounding areas. While you're there, check out the Outdoor Gallery as it hosts Common Ground by Annick Wolfers, a multi-media outdoor exhibition along Leytonstone High Road, documenting nearby Wanstead Flats.
Did you know that 94 per cent of childcare providers in Waltham Forest are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted? Recent inspections have praised a number of childcare settings across the borough, and the staff and children in them!
if you're looking for a local Good or Outstanding childcare provider, visit our Childcare Directory via the link below.
Image: Rachel Adams 2022
Come along to our own Waltham Forest Pride at Fellowship Square on Saturday 29 July.
Have a family-friendly, joyful day of celebration with performances, speakers, a range of stalls providing food and drink, information, face painting and taster sessions from the local LGBTQIA+ community, as well as plenty of activities for children. Plus there are lots of opportunities to get involved, from volunteering to hosting an after-party. Find out more via the button below. This is a free event, but it is ticketed to manage numbers, so don’t miss out and secure your complimentary tickets now.
On the same day, why not also drop by William Morris Galley for the Family Day: Rainbow Storytime for Waltham Forest Pride – FREE entry. Find out more.
Image: John Cameron / Unsplash
Nominations for the Faith & Belief Forum's 2023 Waltham Forest awards are now open.
The awards recognise the outstanding efforts of local community projects, so if you know of a project inspired by a faith or belief (religious or secular) that deserves to be recognised, then get your nomination in before the end of July. Find full details and qualifying criteria via the button below.
Did you know the average drinker spends an estimated £62,899 on alcohol over the course of a lifetime? If you’re thinking of cutting back this Alcohol Awareness Week, try swapping your cocktail for an alcohol-free option when you're out. Mocktails are usually made with fresh juice, making them tasty, hydrating and nutritious. Plus, they’re usually cheaper than spirits!
Join us in Walthamstow Town Square on Saturday 8 July from 12pm to 5pm to learn more and get a free mocktail from our alcohol-free pop-up bar. You’ll have the chance to speak to some of our staff and partners to learn more about your drinking habits, find more ways to cut back and get the support you need.
Image: Alexandria Hall Photography
We all know how stunning Fellowship Square is, so why not spend the biggest day of your life with us? Our state-of-the-art Art Deco building has held many beautiful weddings, and yours could be the next. We have a range of affordable wedding suites, suitable for any wedding size – even those with over 100 guests. Planning your special day with us couldn’t be simpler, as you’ll be supported by our dedicated and friendly ceremonies team throughout the process.
Interested? Head to the link bellow to enquire and find out more about our services. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Hedgehog image: Piotr Łaskawski for Unsplash
The UK's hedgehog population has declined by 46 per cent since 2010. Alongside the Zoological Society of London, we have an opportunity to do a survey of hedgehogs in Waltham Forest. This will be the first part of a new 'Hogwatch' conservation plan and we'll have more information about how to get involved soon, so watch this space.
Can you help? Send any pictures or videos you have taken of hedgehogs in the borough and where and when you saw them to campaigns@walthamforest.gov.uk. Thanks!
Participants learn to cycle at Leyton Jubilee Park
For the past six weeks, Leyton Jubilee Park and Hawkswood Primary in Chingford have been home to two special cycling courses for residents over 60 to learn to ride a bike, or feel more confident on two wheels. The courses, with British Cycling-trained instructors, are the latest in a range of activities run by Age UK Waltham Forest. Whether it's Tai Chi, Walking Football, Pilates, Zumba or other social and sport activities, there's always something to do across the borough. Check out the Age UK Waltham Forest website or email events@ageukwalthamforest.gov.uk.
Starting from Saturday 22 July until the end of August, we have a packed six-week programme of free and ticketed activities to keep you all entertained and learning. There’s something for all ages, family, and friends.
From sports, dancing, arts performances, to yoga, festivals, summer markets, crafts, storytelling - all against the backdrop of our high-tech fountain displays. Summer Starts Here! Plan ahead and have a fun filled and active summer.
Maya, Mafe and the Magic Box
Join leader Maya Sapone and dance artist Mafe Toledo for an interactive afternoon of magical discovery for families.
Children can sing, dance and make music together with a live band. This event is most suitable for families with babies and children from birth to age seven.
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When: Sunday 9 July, from 3pm to 4pm
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Where: Walthamstow School for Girls, Church Hill, Walthamstow.
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Cost: £3 per person
Share your thoughts on living in Waltham Forest
We are conducting online research to help us understand your thoughts and experiences of living in Waltham Forest. We will be holding online discussion groups on the 17, 18 or 19 July for one hour. Click on the link below to apply to take part.
If selected, you will be contacted by M.E.L Research and everyone who takes part will receive a £40 shopping voucher as a thank you for your time.
A career that makes a difference
Are you looking for a career that makes a difference in the lives of those in need?
We’ll be at the London Homelessness Career Fair from 10am on Monday 10 July at BOXPARK Wembley, Wembley Park HA9 0JT. Come along and get ready to explore your career opportunities in the homelessness sector. Register your interest here to find out more and talk to us about our current roles and other opportunities.
A climate course for £10? Sign up now!
Climate Leaders: Eco-Action Week at The Hive Forest Centre is a four-day course for young people aged 16-25 living or studying in Waltham Forest who are interested in learning more about the climate and ecological emergency alongside other young people. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the ecology of Epping Forest, get a nationally recognised Carbon Literacy accreditation and develop new skills. The course is packed with in-depth sustainability knowledge, practical conservation methods and skills for enabling you and others to create positive change. Please note, the course costs £10 to cover the Carbon Literacy certification. Sign up today
Current council vacancies and other local jobs
We regularly update the vacancies and local jobs listing on our Waltham Forest Jobs website. Explore available job opportunities and apply for roles that suit you.
And you can find the latest Waltham Forest Council jobs online on our website. And check out our LinkedIn.
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