Businesses welcome back customers - Leisure centres reopen Enjoy the great outdoors £1 million for community projects - Hillingdon Council
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News from your council
May/June 2021
Businesses
welcome back
customers
Leisure centres reopen
Enjoy the great outdoors
£1 million for
community projects
APPRENTICES HOUSING HAVE YOUR SAY
advertisements people
Contents
May/June 2021
▸ Cover stories
W
▸ 11 Funding boost for community projects elcome to the May/June edition of Hillingdon People.
The council’s Chrysalis programme is investing As we move from spring into summer, it feels like
£1 million in community facilities this year. some normality is beginning to return. Coronavirus
12 Tashan Daniel bursary award scheme (COVID-19) restrictions are continuing to ease, and the last
Six young people receive funding to pursue their couple of months has seen shielding end, small groups of
ambitions in sport and culture. people being able to meet outside, and sport and leisure
▸ 16 Leisure centres reopen facilities and non-essential businesses reopening. We have also
been pleased to welcome you back safely to some of our own
A range of COVID-secure measures have been
introduced across our centres. services and facilities, including libraries, leisure centres, tennis
courts and golf courses.
▸ 18 Shop local, shop Hillingdon As our high streets start to reopen we encourage residents to
Non-essential retailers are open for business and support local shops and traders. The council is continuing to assist
our high streets need your support. the local economy by offering a range of support to businesses
▸ 22 Exclusive apartments for over-55s from grants and safety advice, to free pavement licences and
Our purpose-built flats provide accommodation an online directory. You can read more about this on page 18.
for residents with support available 24 hours a day. Looking ahead to 17 May and June, subject to government
reviews and infection rates, steps three and four of the planned
▸ 24 Enjoy Hillingdon’s great outdoors roadmap provide a further relaxation of rules and potentially
With spring in full swing, there’s never been a even the end of legal limits on social contact.
better time to explore our parks and open spaces. The direction we’re travelling in is extremely positive but I
would like to remind residents that we need to take these steps
Regulars safely. Please remember to keep washing your hands, covering
4 Hillingdon News 33 What's on your face in enclosed public spaces, maintain a safe distance
32 Older people 35 Contacts from anyone you do not live with and, wherever possible, meet
outdoors in the fresh air as good ventilation reduces the spread
COVER PHOTO : THE MISTRY FAMILY DINING AT THE COACH & HORSES, of the virus.
ICKENHAM As restrictions ease, it’s still important for you to regularly get
tested because approximately one in three people with COVID-19
do not have symptoms but can still infect others. Getting tested
regularly is the only way to know if you have the virus. If people
then test positive and self-isolate, it helps stop the virus
10 16 spreading. Everyone can now access free rapid tests for
COVID-19 if they do not have symptoms. Find out more about
this on page 20.
Last month, the government met its target of offering a first
COVID-19 vaccine dose to the nine most vulnerable groups.
There continues to be an impressive uptake across the borough
11 24
and this is all thanks to eligible residents choosing to take the
vaccine and the great work being carried out by our partners the
NHS, Hillingdon CCG and volunteers. When it’s your turn, please
book your appointment as soon as possible to protect yourself
Advertising deadline for next edition:Tuesday 1 June 2021 and those around you.
Editorial and advertising enquiries In this issue of Hillingdon People you can read about the
01895 556903 young residents who received funding from the Tashan Daniel
hillingdonpeople@hillingdon.gov.uk Award; the assistance the council has been giving residents living
www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hillingdonpeople with dementia and their carers during the pandemic and how
we’re investing £1 million in our Chrysalis programme this year
After reading, please
to enhance community facilities.
recycle this magazine
Published by London Borough of Hillingdon © 2021
Hillingdon People, 3S/05 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW.
Design Corporate Communications Printed by Paragon Service Point
Products and services advertised in this magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the council.
For a copy in large print or as an Cllr Ian Edwards
audio version call 01895 556903 LEADER OF THE COUNCIL
2 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 3
news news
Council transforms social care services to support families New lighting makes busy zebra crossing safer for pupils
On Monday 2 August, operate around the benefit from the Cllr Jane Palmer, Students attending their visibility to drivers
the council will launch a clock, offering families transformation. For Cabinet Member for St Helen’s College in at all times of the day.
pioneering new way of information, advice and example, advice and Health and Social Care, Hillingdon are benefiting A set of Zebrites was
working across its social support 24 hours a day, support about concerns said: “Early intervention from safer journeys to already in stock and they
care services to enable seven days a week. The for a child, young person’s is crucial in supporting and from school thanks were installed on Friday
teams to intervene early hub is one of the first welfare, and requests for families and preventing to new lighting installed 12 February – just two
and ensure that local of its kind and will be a mental health assessments, children from entering by the council on a days after the petition
families have fast access to single point of contact will all now be available the social care system nearby zebra crossing. hearing had met to discuss
a wide range of support for all professionals through the hub. at a later point in life. Long Lane is a busy road road safety improvements
services around the clock. and residents, with a Siobhan Appleton, “Our social care services and there is an increase near to the school.
The council has dedicated email address, Designated Nurse, have undergone an in traffic especially during Cllr John Riley, Cabinet
redesigned its offer of phone number and a Safeguarding Children incredible transformation the school-run. It has be replaced with a traffic signals across the capital Member for Public
early help and prevention single online referral form. and Looked After to offer residents and been reported that cars light-controlled crossing. and it would have taken Safety and Transport,
for local families and The vast majority Children/Care professionals the best frequently exceed the On Wednesday 10 several months to progress said: “Road safety is one of
is working together of children’s services Leavers, said: possible service at the speed limit and there February, Cllr Riley heard an application for the the council’s key priorities
with partners across will be accessible via “As soon as difficulties earliest point of call, and have been several near the petition with council installation of traffic lights. and we are committed to
Hillingdon in services the new hub, which arise at any point in a to give local families misses on the crossing. officers, ward and other Officers from the doing everything we can
for young people to may include a concern child’s life, early help and the support required St Helen’s College is councillors together council's road safety team to make our roads safer for
support children at the for a child’s welfare, intervention can help to become stronger located on both sides of with the petitioners to came up with an immediate residents and to encourage
earliest possible stage. access to parenting to improve the child’s and more resilient.” Long Lane and the road discuss ways the route and cost-effective children and their mums,
The new Stronger advice and support, experience at home, If you’re concerned that is frequently crossed could be made safer for solution which involved dads and carers to walk,
Families service will or questions regarding school and within the a child may be at risk of throughout the school the school community upgrading the existing cycle or scooter to school.”
enable teams to engage special educational local community. This harm in Hillingdon, or if day. In December, pupils and the wider public. zebra crossing’s beacons To submit a petition
families earlier and needs or education. multi-agency, holistic you feel that you or your submitted a petition to TfL is responsible for with flashing circular to the council, visit
provide long-lasting The hub will also early intervention should family need support, the council requesting that designing, installing and LED light haloes, known www.hillingdon.gov.
solutions to ensure a deal with adult social be part of a continuum please contact the Stronger the existing zebra crossing maintaining all traffic as Zebrites, increasing uk/consultation.
safe, stable and nurturing care concerns reported of support to address a Families hub by emailing
environment in which
children, young people
out of office hours.
Professionals in
child and family's needs
allowing an appropriate
strongerfamilieshub@
hillingdon.gov.uk, calling Every pupil in the borough Are you an unpaid carer?
and parents can thrive.
A unique Stronger
Hillingdon, including
teachers, police and
and timely response
to differing and often
01895 556 006 or visiting
www.hillingdon.gov. offered a school place If you provide unpaid care
and support for a relative,
Families ‘hub’ will health staff, will also changing levels of need.” uk/stronger-families. We have once again ensured are pleased that so many of friend or neighbour, you
that every child in the our local children received may be eligible for a range
borough has a primary and their preferred choice. of council support.
Arts Council grant supports school music education secondary school place.
The council processed
"Education remains
a top priority for the
On Thursday 18 March,
35 residents attended the
During lockdown, the people to participate 3,664 primary school council and we continue council’s online carers’ forum
service moved its activities in and enjoy music. applications this year. In April, to put families first with the event, held in partnership with respite from her caring
and tuition online so that “When we first went 98.7 per cent of applicants continued investment in with Carers Trust Hillingdon. duties and counselling
children could continue into lockdown last March, were offered a place at one our school building and The annual event is support from Carers Trust
to take part in a high- the service quickly moved of their top three schools expansion programme to designed to identify Hillingdon. The council
quality and enriching its programme online and 93.7 per cent were ensure that children get more unpaid carers and has offered her a weekly
music programme. and now that face-to-face offered their first preference. an excellent start in life." offer information about allowance to enable her to
Now restrictions are activities can resume, the Earlier in March, 94 per The council's school the support available. join a gym to help improve
easing, the grant will be money will be used to cent of pupils were offered placement and admissions Caroline Turini, aged her physical health and
used to fund discounts to expand and enrich our a place at one of their team is available to help 56 from Hayes, is the main enjoy a relaxation massage.
encourage parents and programme of activity. preferred secondary schools. parents if they have carer for her husband who She said: “I am so grateful
carers to use the service “Music education is a The council received any queries, and more has Secondary Progressive for the carers’ support
again and new instruments key part of a child’s growth 3,607 secondary information can be found Multiple Sclerosis. She which gives me some much-
'ANTHEM' Schoolchildren perform a concert at Brunel University to support whole class and development. It school applications. at www.hillingdon.gov. supports him with a variety needed respite and time
tuition in primary schools. allows children to develop Cllr Susan O'Brien, uk/schooladmissions. of tasks at home and his away from my caring duties.
The council’s music tuition and educational It will also be used to skills such as teamwork Cabinet Member for personal care needs. The carers are friendly,
service has been support in schools for fund in-person ensemble and communication Education and Unfortunately, lockdown always on time and take
awarded a grant of children aged five to rehearsals and events. and it boosts their Children's Services, restrictions during the good care of my husband.
£161,270 by the Arts 18. It also runs its own Leader of the self-esteem. It’s also a said: “Once again, past year have impacted Without this support, I
Council to support music school in Hayes at Council, Cllr Ian huge amount of fun!” we are delighted to Caroline's physical health would be unable to cope.”
the restart of face-to- weekends, with a wide Edwards, said: For more information announce that every and emotional wellbeing. For more information
face music activities. range of ensembles “Hillingdon Music on the Hillingdon Music child in the borough Caroline approached the and to take an online carer’s
Hillingdon Music such as orchestras, Service plays a vital Service, visit www. has been offered a council for support, and assessment, visit www.
Service provides music bands and choirs. role in enabling young hillingdon.gov.uk/music. school place and we she has been provided hillingdon.gov.uk/carers.
4 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 5
news news
Support for smokers Update on the High Speed 2 Colne Valley Viaduct project
The council and High Judicial Review and the anti-graffiti this information at the
If you are thinking about you have smoked for, Speed 2 (HS2) have proceedings against the measures that are to be time of submitting its
stopping smoking, now quitting can help both reached an agreement Secretaries of State and included in its design. application for planning
couldn’t be a better time your physical and mental that has removed the HS2 Ltd were brought by As part of these approval as it would have
because of the added health immediately. need for the council to the council to the High discussions, the council removed the need for
risk of complications “There’s never been continue with its Judicial Court in December 2020, has also asked for a the council to resort to
from COVID-19. a more important time Review in relation to the challenging the legality of public commitment legal action at public cost.
Residents who to stop smoking and a Colne Valley Viaduct. the Inspector's decision. from HS2 Ltd to work Nevertheless, the council
smoke generally have range of free support HS2 Ltd made an The viaduct has very collaboratively to secure a has, in the light of HS2
an increased risk of is available to help you application to the council significant ecological and positive long-term legacy Ltd's written assurances,
contracting respiratory and your loved ones.” for planning approval in environmental implications for the borough and its decided not to pursue
Planning refusal upheld for infections and of
developing more severe
Get in touch with
the Hillingdon Stop
relation to the design and
external appearance of
for the borough and its
residents and the council
residents by ensuring
that robust mitigation
its Judicial Review claim.
Although the design of the
Hayes electricity substation symptoms once infected.
There’s also growing
Smoking service today
by emailing lbofh.
the Colne Valley Viaduct
under the HS2 Act.
was concerned that
planning approval had
plans are put in place.
HS2 Ltd has written to
viaduct remains far from
ideal, the council's position
The council’s decision a priority by the council. evidence that smokers stopsmoking@nhs.net or The council did been given in the absence the council, providing is that these proceedings
to refuse plans to In these priority areas, the are at greater risk if they calling 01895 207790 not determine the of important information assurances that it will share have resulted in HS2
develop an electricity council aims to ensure that catch COVID-19 because or 0800 169 7541. application on the basis which would adequately with it the information Ltd providing it with the
substation in Hayes was any development protects of the damage already A range of support is that HS2 Ltd had failed to protect these interests. which it has asked for. information which it asked
upheld by planning residents from anything that caused to their airways available, including access provide it with sufficient Discussions have recently This includes details of for at the very outset.
inspectors in February. would harm air quality. by smoking. Meanwhile to an experienced NHS information for it to make taken place between the ground water quality In conclusion, the
In the summer of 2018, The company behind the hand-to-mouth action stop smoking advisor and a lawful decision. HS2 council's and HS2 Ltd's and also working with council is prepared to
the council received an the gas-powered of smoking increases nicotine replacement Ltd issued an appeal leadership in relation to the council on providing work collaboratively
application for planning generator appealed the the risk of spreading therapy (normally patches to the Secretaries of the HS2 project as a whole public statements on water with HS2 Ltd and secure
permission to build and decision. However, the germs and infection, and gum) available at State for Transport and and they have included impacts, sharing ecological a long-term legacy but
operate a large gas- Planning Inspectorate – including COVID-19. prescription cost or free Housing, Communities the viaduct where the reports and developing this will not be at the
powered generator on which deals with planning Cllr Jane Palmer, if you are exempt. and Local Government council has reiterated its a public summary on expense of the interests
land off North Hyde appeals - found in the Cabinet Member for Visit www.hillingdon. who appointed a Planning concerns about the lack ecological mitigations of the borough and its
Gardens in Hayes. council’s favour and Health and Social Care, gov.uk/stopsmoking Inspector to decide the of information provided and finally, providing residents. The council
The council refused the dismissed the appeal on said: “No matter how long to find out more. appeal on their behalf. by HS2 Ltd in relation the necessary details on will continue to challenge
application. The generator Thursday 4 February. The Inspector found in to ground water quality, anti-graffiti measures. HS2 Ltd whenever it
would have been The Inspector found that favour of HS2 Ltd and the ecological impacts The council regrets that considers it necessary to
powered by natural gas, a the limited benefits of the allowed its appeal. arising from the viaduct HS2 Ltd did not provide protect these interests.
fossil fuel that emits harmful proposal did not outweigh
pollutants when burned.
The location selected
the harmful impacts
of placing a polluting Council set to raise Heathrow night flight noise concerns
for the power station is in power station within an Residents’ wellbeing will the south of the borough, The council has until Monday 31 May,
one of the air quality areas area already suffering be the key concern for the close to the runways are already responded to and while the council will
in the borough deemed from poor air quality. council when it responds more likely to be affected Part 1 of the Department be responding to try and
to the government’s by night flights. In particular, for Transport’s (DfT) safeguard residents against
June deadline nearing for EU settlement applications consultation on possible
changes to night flights
the associated ground noise,
which is a unique impact
Night Flights Restrictions
consultation, as a member
any further increase in
noise, residents themselves
EU nationals living in for yourself and your evidence of five years of value the contribution made at Heathrow Airport. for Hillingdon residents. of the Local Authorities are being encouraged
Hillingdon are urged to children. continuous UK residence. by European residents to The government currently With uncertainty over Aircraft Noise Council – an to have their say, too.
complete an application If your application is EU citizens must apply our borough and encourage has restrictions on the Heathrow’s expansion umbrella organisation of Part 2 of the DfT’s
to the EU Settlement successful, the EUSS will online and provide them to apply to the scheme numbers of flights per night plans the situation could local authorities and other consultation is looking
Scheme (EUSS) before the grant either settled or pre- evidence of their identity, so that they can continue to and the number and type get worse for residents, groups that represents for feedback on its long-
deadline on Wednesday settled status, depending length of residence in the live and work here. of aircraft allowed – as some so it is vital the council the interests of residents term policy for night
30 June 2021. on how long the EU citizen UK, and declare if they have “I urge all eligible are louder than others. But and residents raise their around Heathrow affected flights beyond 2024. It
EUSS allows citizens has lived in the UK. a criminal history. residents not to delay as it’s important the economic concerns now over the by aircraft noise. will examine particular
from the EU, EEA or To receive settled status, Statuses will not be time is running out. Please benefits of night flights do detrimental health impacts The second part of the issues, such as whether
Switzerland to continue EU citizens must prove they automatically granted by the remember that if you need not come at the expense that night flights can cause. consultation (Part 2) runs noisier aircraft types should
living and working in the have lived in the UK for five EUSS, so people need to any support with your of impacting on the quality be banned, or if there
UK following Brexit. continuous years. This status apply. Those with indefinite application free help is of life for residents. should be dispensations
If you’re a citizen from is permanent and does not leave to remain status do not available from Ealing Law While Hillingdon for certain flights to allow
the EU, EEA or Switzerland expire or need renewal. have to apply. Centre at ealinglawcentre. residents may not be so them to land within the
and were living in the Pre-settled status lasts Cllr Douglas Mills, org.uk.” heavily impacted as those night-time period.
UK by Thursday 31 for five years. It can be Cabinet Member for Find out more and who live directly under To respond, visit
December 2020, then you upgraded to settled status Corporate Services and apply at www.gov.uk/ the approach and take-off gov.uk and search
must make an application once the person can show Transformation, said: “We eusettlementscheme. flightpaths, those living in 'Heathrow night flights.'
6 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 7
news news
Rodent infestation lands catering company with fine Large penalty for West Drayton unlicensed animal business
On Monday 22 February, Ltd in September 2019, Despite asking the owners disregarding food safety
the council prosecuted officers uncovered a serious Jaideep Singh Songra, and hygiene regulations. Khudyakova and storage sheds and a
a catering company in rodent infestation, with mice aged 50, and Mahinder Both were fined £650 for Tymoshenko, who large wooden building
Hayes and its owners droppings littered all over Parihar, aged 46, to make each offence. In total, they were prosecuted by where cats were kept in
after a food hygiene the premises, including on improvements - including were each ordered to pay the council, were each wooden cages. Animals
inspection uncovered the floor, food surfaces, a voluntary closure in April £5,134 and the business ordered to pay £24,150 were also being kept in
a string of offences. near cooking equipment 2019 to get the infestation was also fined £4,081. (£4,500 for each offence, outdoor enclosures.
The company and and in the food storage under control - it was evident Cllr John Riley, Cabinet £15,000 prosecution Cllr Ian Edwards,
both owners were fined area. Food waste was left that no improvements Member for Public costs and a £150 victim Leader of the Council,
£14,345 for six offences. on the floor overnight, had been made and there Safety and Transport, surcharge). In total, they said: “It was clear from
During an inspection of and sweets and snacks was no routine cleaning/ said: "Ardaas Sweets Catering must pay £48,300. the outset that this was
Ardaas Sweets Catering were covered in mould. disinfection system in place. Ltd and its owners showed The council and the a large-scale, long-term
A notice was served in complete disregard for the Metropolitan Police commercial breeding
September 2019 for a food law and for the safety of executed a search warrant and sales business.
New SEGRO Park management system to be in
place by October 2019 - but
their staff and customers. We
offered them a chance to
at Khudyakova and
Tymoshenko’s address
“There was simply
no excuse for the
nothing was done, leaving help them improve hygiene in December 2018. couple not to have
environmental health officers standards, but instead they As well as finding known about their
no choice but to prosecute. refused to cooperate and A man and a woman who of Colne Avenue, each dozens of animals on site, licensing obligations and
At Uxbridge Magistrates' comply. This is completely bred and sold dogs and pleaded guilty to two a ground floor room was therefore I am pleased
Court on Tuesday 9 unacceptable. We will cats from their home animal licensing offences filled with tiered cages with the considerable
February, both Songra continue to help businesses in West Drayton have at Uxbridge Magistrates’ from floor to ceiling, financial penalty handed
Works have started at provide local young people and Parihar pleaded comply with the law and been told to pay nearly Court on Tuesday 6 April. and another room was down by the court.”
SEGRO Park in Hayes on aged 16 to 24 with a route guilty to failing to improve prosecute those who think £50,000 after admitting The offences related being used for birthing. If you suspect someone
the site of the 30-acre into a career in construction. conditions and for the rules don't apply them.” they weren’t licensed. to the sale of pets and In the garden, a of breeding or selling
former Nestlé chocolate Funding has also been Galyna Khudyakova, the breeding of puppies large fenced-off area animals without a
and coffee producing
factory bringing new
given by SEGRO for
the creation of a new Restaurant fined for cutting aged 57, and Volodymyr
Tymoshenko, aged 47,
– both of which require
a licence in Hillingdon.
contained a complex
of buildings, including
licence, email licensing@
hillingdon.gov.uk.
training opportunities, jobs
and investors to the area.
supply-chain initiative
to enable Hillingdon down two mature trees
The new urban industrial small and medium-sized The council has prosecuted council in April last
scheme in Hayes, will be
developed with four
enterprise to compete
for opportunities in the
a restaurant business
in Swakeleys Road,
year after complaints
from local residents. Investing in primary schools School (Hayes) to
Hedgewood School
works to future-proof
our existing buildings
industrial units totalling construction sector. This Ickenham after its owners Officers inspected the Five primary schools in in August 2020 and last August. A covered while also at the same
239,665 square feet. initiative is being led by commissioned the felling of site and discovered grind Hillingdon are benefitting included repairs to play area was also time pressing ahead with
The largest unit, Hillingdon Chamber two trees in a conservation pits where two mature from a £3.52 million the roof, external wall installed outside the new an ambitious expansion
totalling 97,600 square of Commerce. area without consent. trees had once stood. investment programme. insulation, cladding and classroom at a cost of programme.
feet, has already been The new industrial units Appearing before Investigators also Last year, works were replacement windows. £386,000. “Thanks to the
pre-let. The remaining are expected to create up Uxbridge Magistrates’ reviewed aerial footage carried out at Ruislip Works to renew and Cllr Jonathan Bianco, council's sound financial
three, one of which will to 350 job opportunities Court on Tuesday 23 and photographs Gardens Primary School, replace the rear windows Cabinet Member management, schools in
be particularly suited for for the local community March, Birothi Property of the original trees. at Lady Bankes Junior for Property and Hillingdon can offer both
Yeading Infant School,
a data centre due to its once completed. Limited was fined £10,000 They concluded that Infrastructure, said: a high-quality learning
Lady Bankes Infant and School were completed
power, connectivity and Cllr Jonathan Bianco, and ordered to pay a permission to remove “We are committed to environment and meet
Nursery School (Ruislip), in November 2020
security, are being built Cabinet Member victim surcharge of £181. the two ash trees would investing millions in our the increasing demand
Lady Bankes Junior at a cost of £752,000
to meet the demand for for Property and The company had not have been granted. schools by carrying out for school places.”
School (Ruislip) and improving the overall
modern, environmentally Infrastructure, said: pleaded guilty at an earlier As a result, the council
sustainable warehousing. “In Hillingdon, we are hearing to one offence decided to prosecute Hedgewood School energy efficiency of the
A dedicated skills and committed to supporting of permitting the cutting the company and seek (Hayes). building.
training programme is being projects that benefit down of two mature ash a formal order requiring In August 2020, the A refurbished mobile
put in place by the council our residents and the trees within the Ickenham them to replace the trees. concrete roof areas at classroom was also
and SEGRO to ensure that environment. We have Village Conservation Area On Thursday 1 October, Ruislip Gardens Primary relocated from Hillingdon
residents benefit from the a strong reputation for without giving required the council served an order School were replaced Primary School to
training and employment attracting major investment notice or obtaining requiring Birothi Property and recovered at a cost Yeading Infant School in
opportunities generated by to the borough and are consent from the council. Limited to replant two of £1.14 million. October 2020 at a cost
the construction and future continuing to work with The court was ash trees or two trees of a Refurbishment works to of £238,000 to provide
occupation of the industrial developers, including told that the owners native species with a similar the canteen and nursery additional teaching space.
park. This programme SEGRO, and businesses to removed the trees to mature size. The young blocks at Lady Bankes To accommodate
includes training delivered revitalise Hillingdon and erect an outbuilding. trees have been afforded Infant and Nursery more pupils, a modular
by Hayes-based help to create new homes The matter first came the same protection as the School totalling £1 classroom unit was
million were completed relocated from Pinkwell REFURBISHED New roof at Ruislip Gardens Primary School
organisation, BUILD, to and jobs for local people." to the attention of the ones that were removed.
8 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 9
older people
trading standards section
chrysalis
Owner of ‘meet and greet’ Funding boost for community projects
parking company jailed A raft of new projects
proposed by residents to
Connect Parking Limited duped customers into paying for secure benefit their local
airport parking, only to leave cars in public car parks, in a muddy field communities will be
or behind a nightclub. Thanks to the work of the council’s trading funded by the council’s
standards team, the company’s director has been brought to justice. Chrysalis programme
in 2021.
T
he owner of a Heathrow- Appearing at Isleworth Crown
based ‘meet and greet’ Court for sentencing on Friday
T
parking company that 9 April, Zaman was jailed for he schemes are part of this SOON TO BE REFURBISHED Rebecca Higgins, George Higgins, 6, Henry Higgins, 8, and
earned an estimated £500,000 eight months for three offences year’s £1 million investment William Higgins, 10, outside the scout hut in Ruislip Gardens.
while falsely claiming to offer its of fraud by false representation programme, that encourages
customers secure airport parking and three breaches of consumer residents to suggest ideas for • 4th Ruislip Scouts exterior building and overflow parking within the
has been jailed for eight months. protection laws. He had pleaded providing or enhancing facilities refurbishments (Manor) grounds. The works were completed
Muhammad Tahir Zaman, aged guilty to all six offences at an on council-owned land. • Courts Park Bowls Club renewing in March 2020.
40, owner of now-defunct Connect earlier hearing. The offences This year, a wide range of projects playing surface (Uxbridge North) 4th Ruislip Group Scout Leader,
Parking Limited of Wenlock Road, covered the period from Friday will benefit and the programme will Community centres (£158,000) Jo Wolfe, said: “In 2020, thanks to the
London, first came to the attention of 18 September 2015 to Friday include improving playgrounds and • Eastcote Community Centre Chrysalis fund we were able to vastly
the council in April 2017 after more 17 November 2017. Zaman was allotments, building outdoor gyms, refurbishment toilets and kitchen improve the appearance, security and
than 100 of his customers’ vehicles also disqualified from being a supporting sports clubs and upgrading (Cavendish) access at our headquarters in Ruislip
were found in ‘pay and display’ car company director for four years. community centres. • Yeading Community Centre toilet Gardens.
parks in Brandville Road and Fairfield As well as prosecuting Zaman, For 2021/22, the successful refurbishment and new meeting “We are very fortunate to have been
Road, West Drayton during the the council launched a complex Chrysalis projects and their room (Yeading) selected for a further grant of £20,000
Easter Bank Holiday weekend. probe into his finances in a bid wards are: • Crane Youth and Community Centre as part of the 2021/22 Chrysalis
The matter resulted in a year- to recover his ill-gotten gains, Playgrounds (£180,000) refurbishment of toilets and entrance programme. The grant will be used
long multi-agency investigation, estimated to be around half-a- • Willow Tree Open Space playground (Pinkwell) to refurbish the external rendering (as
code-named Operation Buzzard, million pounds over 26 months. (Yeading) Allotments (£38,000) pictured) of the scouting hut which is
led by local trading standards However, during a confiscation • Spider Park playground (South Ruislip) • Moor Lane Allotments composting currently in a very poor state of repair.
officers and assisted by the National hearing at Isleworth Crown
Court ahead of his sentencing, Outdoor gyms (£200,000) toilet (Heathrow Villages) This vital work will make the building
Trading Standards Tri Regional • Hayes End Community Park outdoor • Grosvenor Avenue Allotments fit-for-purpose as a community hub for
Investigations Team. Zaman revealed that he had
gym (Botwell) composting toilet (Charville) many more years to come."
During the investigation, the teams been declared bankrupt. As a • Churchfield Gardens outdoor gym Town centres (£100,000)
found evidence that Connect Parking result, the council was unable • Contribution towards improvements
to confiscate any earnings or (Eastcote and East Ruislip)
Limited routinely used at least two • New Ponds Playground outdoor to a parade of shops in Kingshill Cllr Martin Goddard, Cabinet
insecure locations to store customers’ recover any costs (the council Member for Finance, said:
gym (Manor) Avenue
vehicles, including a car park behind was awarded £1). • The Closes outdoor gym “We’re delighted to help fund
an adult entertainment club on the Work on the successful projects
(West Drayton) will start from mid-May, with the these projects which are
A4 in Colnbrook, Berkshire, and a • Dowding Park outdoor gym
Cllr Ian Edwards, Leader of playgrounds and outdoor gyms proposed and driven by the local
muddy field in Iver, Buckinghamshire.
the Council, said: “I can only (Uxbridge North) scheduled for completion by the communities that will benefit
At the Iver site, paperwork with
customers’ names and personal imagine how shocked Highways/pathways, hard autumn. from them.
details were found in vehicles. At the Muhammad Tahir Zaman’s landscaping etc (£274,000) Chrysalis funding in action “This year, the impact could be
time of the council’s inspection, the • Hoylake Crescent to the Greenway In September 2019, 4th Ruislip Scout even more important, as
customers must have been to
site was unmanned. (Ickenham) Group were awarded a Chrysalis COVID-19 restrictions ease
learn that their vehicles, which • Celandine Route Copthall Road to
None of the locations found they’d entrusted to him in good grant totalling £13,541 to renovate residents will be looking for ways
to be used by Connect Parking Swakeleys Road (Ickenham) the grounds surrounding their to keep living healthily and for local
faith, had been parked in a field, • Celandine Route three gravel
Limited provided the secure parking headquarters in Ruislip Gardens. groups to be supported as their
behind a nightclub or in an paths (Eastcote and East Ruislip and The grant was used to replace
promised on the company’s website. activities resume. Importantly, they
The council also received allegations ordinary public car park while Uxbridge North) the dilapidated fence and replace
they were away on holiday. He • Yeading Brook planting mature trees will be providing many people
that the company used on-street the concrete driveway surrounding
abused his customers’ trust in (South Ruislip) the scouting hut. The group also with a vital opportunity to
parking bays and hotel car parks.
There were other reports of vehicles the most brazen way, while • Hillingdon House Farm pitch used the funds to install a concrete reconnect socially.”
clocking up excessive mileage while in making a great deal of money, drainage (Uxbridge North) pathway around the building to make
i
the care of Connect Parking Limited, and so it’s only right he should Sports clubs (£57,000) it wheelchair accessible and recover To suggest an improvement
with some owners returning to find face the full force of the law.” • Eastcote Bowls Club exterior building a small area of overgrown land to via the programme, visit
their cars had travelled 300 miles. refurbishments (Cavendish) create space for outdoor meetings www.hillingdon.gov.uk/chrysalis
10 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 11
section
awards section
awards
England Hockey Sessional Coaching Tashan Daniel’s family, said:
Qualification to become a fully
Tashan Daniel bursary supports
“We are extremely proud and
qualified hockey coach, and hopes grateful to all those involved at
to take up a coaching position at the council in setting up this
Eastcote Hockey Club.
young residents
amazing bursary in Tashan's name.
He said: “I am extremely happy and “To be able to help young
grateful to be receiving this award.
people within the borough
It will help me to fund my coaching
course and pursue a career in hockey achieve their dreams and
aspirations is fantastic.
Last year, the council introduced the Tashan coaching, as well as helping me
“We feel immensely proud and
develop my skills as a player.”
Daniel Award in memory of Tashan who Developing artistic talent
honoured about the bursary and
grateful that something positive
had a passion for competitive sport and Ellie Riley, aged 19 from Abdirahim Hamud
can happen through the tragic
Uxbridge, applied to the Tashan
sprinting. Hillingdon People met six young Daniel Award to assist her studies
loss of Tashan's life.”
people who have received funding to and future career in art, and received in many ways. I will now be able to
attend physio appointments, training
£400 towards art equipment such Apply for funding
pursue their ambitions in sport and culture. as paint brushes, canvasses and camps, travel to competitions, and Young people in Hillingdon can
portfolio materials. buy some training equipment that I
desperately need. With this support, apply for the next round of the
I hope to improve my performance.” Tashan Daniel Award bursary
T
from Monday 28 June until
The Tashan Daniel Award was was awarded £900 from the Tashan Becoming a role model
Sunday 11 July.
created in memory of young Daniel Award to pay for his Great in gymnastics Council funding will be
resident Tashan Daniel, aged 20 Britain swimming kit, racing shorts Sophie Harper, aged 16 from
(pictured right) from Hillingdon, who allocated to successful applicants
and travel to training. Hillingdon, was awarded £419
was tragically killed in an unprovoked Ryan’s mum, Amy, said: “For achieve her ambition to one day to complete a gymnastics coaching for requests including sports
attack at Hillingdon Underground Ryan, swimming is his life. It’s an become an Olympian. course. Once qualified, Sophie will equipment, sports training and
station in September 2019. opportunity for him to excel and Asmaa said: “This funding will teach gymnastics at Futunity UK, a competing opportunities (in the
Tashan was a keen photographer, not to be defined by his disabilities. motivate me and make it easier to leading dance academy in Uxbridge. UK only), qualifications in art and
footballer and athlete and had He does not receive any funding or achieve my goals in both the short She said: “The funding I received
ambitions of competing in the and long-term. I hope to continue
culture, and vocational courses in
support for his Great Britain Deaf will allow me to qualify for my
Olympic Games as a world-class Swimming, as the club has to raise Tashan’s legacy in the future and further education.
British Gymnastics Level 1 course,
sprinter. In 2020, the council gave money to send swimmers to any honour his name, as he was a which will support my aspirations The memorial bursary is
Ellie Riley
funding to six young residents to national or international events. Ryan teammate at my club. for teaching sport as well as working available to Hillingdon residents
support their aspirations in sport, is aiming for the Deaf Olympics.” “I also want to inspire more young She said: “I feel extremely grateful to with children. Keeping children up to the age of 21, with
culture and education. Here are Muslim and ethnic minority girls have been awarded an opportunity active is very important as sport support to the maximum value
their stories: to get involved in athletics. Special to develop my skills further using helps children get fit, develop skills,
thanks to Tashan Daniel’s family
of £2,000 per person, per year.
Swimming for the specific equipment that the award make friends and learn to manage
for this wonderful opportunity.” Applications will be assessed by
has allowed me to purchase. emotional highs and lows. I want to
Deaf Olympics Becoming a local be a sports role model encouraging a panel, including a member of
“I’m currently studying Art and
Ryan Carstairs, aged 15 from children of the importance of sport - the Daniel family.
Ruislip, is profoundly Deaf and
hockey coach Design at university and the bursary
has been immensely helpful in whatever their ability.”
autistic, and swims for the Great Matthew Pledge, aged 20 from
Uxbridge, is studying Biochemistry allowing me to use a wider range
Britain Deaf Swimming Club. He of equipment. I’m hopeful that the Leader of the Council, Cllr
at the University of Warwick. He Ian Edwards, said: "The Tashan
received £500 to complete an award will assist me in gaining a
degree and further my experience Daniel Award supports young
for future employment.” people in the borough to
achieve their aspirations and
Improving cross country
Asmaa Abdirahman we’re so pleased that six
performance residents are already benefiting
Abdirahim Hamud, aged 16, from the bursary.
Inspiring Muslim girls from West Drayton, is the current “Tashan was a keen sportsman
Middlesex cross country champion
into athletics and represents Hillingdon Athletics
with a passion to compete in the
Asmaa Abdirahman, aged 14 Olympic games as a world-class
Club where Tashan trained. He was
from Hayes, represents Hillingdon awarded £2,000 to attend a high- sprinter, and we hope that this
in cross country and won Gold at altitude training camp, invest in sports Sophie Harper tribute to him will help local
the London Youth Games in 2019. gear and undergo physiotherapy. young people to reach their goals
She attends Hillingdon Athletics He said: “I was very pleased that in sport, culture and education.”
Ryan Carstairs Club and received £2,000 for I was accepted for a Tashan Daniel
i
equipment and coaching to help Matthew Pledge Award as the funding will help me Further information is available at
www.hillingdon.gov.uk/tashan-daniel-award
12 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 13
section
apprentices section
mayor
Supporting apprentices to A memorable year as
develop and gain new skills Mayor of Hillingdon
The council’s As the end of her term as Mayor approached, Hillingdon
Tiarna Robinson
apprenticeship scheme Tiarna, 21, from Northolt, joined the council’s
People caught up with Cllr Teji Barnes to reflect on
launched three years maintenance team as a business administration what she calls her unusual but unforgettable year.
C
apprentice in February.
ago and has since been Her role involves investigating and responding to llr Barnes became Mayor As restrictions eased at different Following her term as Mayor, Cllr
commended as one of queries from council tenants and councillors. last May while the country periods in the year, Cllr Barnes was Barnes plans to return to running her
Tiarna decided to apply for the role as she was was already in national also able to venture outside for driving school, Learn With Teji Barnes,
the most successful in interested in working in a position where she could lockdown, limiting many of the some socially distanced activities with working with the IAM Roadsmart
the UK, with more than help others. She previously undertook a work activities and events that would small groups. Highlights included charity and serving as a member on the
experience placement at a hostel for homeless people and is passionate about usually take place in a Mayoral year. a trip to Westminster Abbey in London Road Safety Council. She also
83 new apprentices and providing support for those in the community. While ensuring government September, laying wreaths at many hopes to join various groups, some of
151 existing employees So far, Tiarna has enjoyed this challenging role, in particular finding out guidelines were strictly followed – of the borough’s war memorials to which she was introduced to as Mayor.
about the diverse work her service undertakes and the many ways she can Cllr Barnes set out to reach as many commemorate notable anniversaries, She also plans to continue to
trained in new skills. support residents. people as possible during her time in and visiting a school, bowls clubs, collaborate with the Centre for ADHD
the role. A task that she said pushed various gardens and parks and a and Autism Support, where she has
H
Tiarna hopes that her experience in this 15-month apprenticeship, which will
illingdon’s apprenticeship lead to a Level 3 Business Administration qualification, will help her to progress her to think outside the box, but one vaccination centre. made some great friends.
programme gives apprentices her career at the council as she aspires to move into the housing team. that she took in her stride as she enjoys Cllr Barnes added: “I would have She said: “I am also passionate about
the real-world experience Tiarna said: “I am enjoying learning new skills and dealing with new a challenge and thrives on change and loved to have held more parlour understanding autism and ADHD and
and training they need to gain challenges, and it's good to be able to help tenants get their problems sorted.” new experiences. visits for young schoolchildren the effects these conditions have on the
qualifications and forge a career, Cllr Barnes said: “My entire year has and groups, but apart from that I individual adults, depending on their
while also being paid and working been amazing. The really special part don’t think I felt like I had missed gender. I have taken some training but
towards an accreditation. of all of this was that I got to meet so out on things. Though one of the will pursue further in-depth study to
Apprentices at the council work many people, albeit online. I have unexpected opportunities, I felt very improve my knowledge.
in a variety of service areas, from Fauzia Rehman enjoyed the freedom to virtually proud being a part of the World War “On a final note, I would like to take
horticulture, town planning, libraries Three members of staff in the council’s Universal meet residents of all ages, business memorial proceedings last year. When this opportunity to say thank you to
and carpentry, to legal, accounts, Youth Service successfully completed year-long owners, clergy, service personnel and restrictions were relaxed, I managed everyone who has sent a donation to
project planning and social work. apprenticeships last September, which helped the army of volunteers supporting to visit the Battle of Britain Bunker, my charity by texting, sending cash,
This year, 13 new apprentices them to develop their expertise and support their the borough during this difficult time. RAF Northolt and the Polish Air Force cheque and bank transfer, it is very
and 21 existing employees have work at the council. I also attended around 20 Scout and Memorial and got the chance to meet much appreciated.”
undertaken courses. Among them was Fauzia Rehman, lead youth Girl Guiding groups and met nearly some of the airmen’s families.”
and community worker, who completed a Level 3 the entire Uxbridge Stagecoach Cllr Barnes was disappointed
Award in Youth Work Practice. attendees, of which there are 300. For that she couldn’t hold the
Fauzia, 40, from Hayes decided to apply because the course was me, every single minute of my year activities planned to raise money
Leader of the Council, Cllr extremely relevant to her work, providing practical training that applied has been exceptional.” for the charity but got behind all
Ian Edwards, said: “I am very youth work principles. Another way Cllr Barnes stayed in their fundraisers.
proud of our apprentices’ She said: “I am passionate about my work with and for young people, touch with people was through the She said: “It has been a very
achievements, whether they are where I am supporting them through their journey from childhood to creation of her very own YouTube strange time for fundraising
new to the council and taking on adulthood. I applied for the course to improve my existing knowledge channel - a first for a Mayor in during the Mayoralty. I did not
a brand-new challenge, or are and skills, so that I can better support young people in my role. Hillingdon. The channel, which get the chance to do anything
already an employee working “This course helped me to gain a qualification that provides access to launched last August, allowed her to the Mayor would normally
degree level learning and a professional level youth work qualification.” share her Mayoral experiences and do to raise money as they
hard to improve their skills while
Before completing the course, Fauzia’s work mainly involved leading offer people a behind-the-scenes look would have involved lots
carrying out their day jobs. a team of youth workers in delivering services to young people. Since
“This scheme has achieved so at her diary events. of meeting people. I had
completing the apprenticeship, her role has expanded to include more She said: “I decided that to engage thought about holding
much in just three years and managerial responsibilities and it has also seen her contributing to the with residents of all ages during my virtual events and other
provides wonderful content of services provided for residents. term, I would need a medium that was ideas such as releasing
opportunities for residents to Fauzia added: “I enjoy the confidence which I now have in performing becoming a part of everyday life, so balloons, however, I decided
earn while they learn. I my role, due to the knowledge and skills I gained from completing this setting up a YouTube channel seemed to work with the charity and
encourage anyone interested in course. My aspiration is to continue to develop my knowledge and skills, the most obvious solution." promote the fundraisers they
applying for an apprenticeship and to eventually be in a position to apply for a managerial position At the start of her term, the Mayor held which included online
to see if there might be one within the youth work field.” rarely left the parlour, so the videos quizzes and raffles. These
offered at the council that is were a great way to communicate with virtual activities have been
i
right for them.” residents and to publicise the work of very successful, raising more than To find out more about the Mayor’s
i
If you’re interested in starting an apprenticeship, her nominated charity, the Centre for £500 on nearly every event in ticket Charity Appeal and donate, visit
visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/apprenticeships ADHD and Autism Support. sales alone.” www.hillingdon.gov.uk/mayor
14 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 15
section
leisure section
leisure
• COVID-19 safety signs and When fitness classes resume, “During lockdown I really missed
floor stickers instructing you to they will have: the socialising aspect of coming to
keep a safe distance. The centres • Capped attendance enabling the gym. It’s really easy to book a
are running at reduced capacity, class-goers to remain at a safe session via the app and all of the
so you’ll always be able to distance at all times equipment is very well spaced out
maintain a safe distance from • No member interaction or so I feel safe returning.”
other visitors shared equipment
• Sanitisation stations that you • Time dedicated to sanitising
should use in between activities your hands and wiping down
or using any equipment. any equipment both before and
For any gym, swim or fitness class after use with the cleaning
session booked, visitors will be given products provided
a one-hour time slot to ensure that • The possibility to be taken
everyone has the chance to visit and outside, weather permitting and
enjoy the facilities. This slot includes where enough space is available.
entering the building, taking part in The specific location of your class
your activity and leaving the building. will be on your booking.
Face coverings should be worn until Exercise mats for classes such as
you commence your exercise activity. yoga or Pilates will be provided but
Swimming pool safety please ensure you clean them before Fatema Tarawala
measures and after use with the sanitiser and
Swimming pools will have: paper towel provided. Alternatively, Fatema Tarawala, 38, from
• A maximum of 10 swimmers in you can bring your own mat. Ickenham, said: “It’s great to be
each lane of a 25-metre pool back at the gym and I feel very safe
• Double-width lanes so visitors with all the safety measures in place.
can keep a safe distance “Exercise has such a positive impact
• Chlorine disinfectant on my physical and mental wellbeing
UXBRIDGE LIDO REOPENS Cllr Barnes with the Lido Ladies Jessica Walker and Nicola Forster. in the water management and I always feel great when I get
Welcoming you back safely
systems, complying with back home. It’s great to be back!”
government regulations, is
proven to disinfect pathogens,
including viruses such as
COVID-19. Cllr Susan O’Brien,
A range of measures have been introduced Before you arrive When using the pool, please Cabinet Member for
Before you arrive, you’ll need to: show caution when overtaking and
across our leisure centres to ensure local people • Book a time slot via the Better maintain social distancing.
Families, Education and
Wellbeing, said: “Exercise is
UK app
can enjoy a range of activities and exercise • Arrive on time. If you arrive early, Safety measures for Penny Good a great way to reduce stress
opportunities in a COVID-secure environment. you’ll need to queue outside fitness classes and anxiety, it improves health
and if you arrive late, you won’t Group exercise glasses are expected to Penny Good, 73, from and emotional and physical
F
(Ruislip), Hillingdon Sports and be allowed access to the centre be available for booking from Monday Ruislip, said: “At my age, keeping wellbeing, and Hillingdon has
ollowing the government’s four-
Leisure Complex (Uxbridge) • Be changed into your activity 17 May (COVID-19 dependent). A fit is my number one priority, as it some of the best leisure
step roadmap out of lockdown, the
and Queensmead Sports Centre clothes and shower at home if hygiene station will be at the entrance benefits not only my physical health
outdoor pool at Hillingdon Sports facilities in London.
(South Ruislip) have a wealth of fitness possible, as centres are trying to of all fitness class studios. but my mental wellbeing too.
and Leisure Complex reopened on “GLL has introduced
Monday 29 March, and on Monday activities to suit residents of all ages limit access to showers and measures to ensure the safety
12 April all of Hillingdon’s council-run and abilities. changing rooms of visitors and staff by making
leisure centres welcomed residents back. There’s also no joining fee for a • Bring your own water bottle,
our centres COVID-secure. I
The council’s contractor, Greenwich limited time (subject to availability) towel and hand sanitiser, if
possible. would encourage residents to
Leisure Limited (GLL) which operates so there’s never been a better time
to become a member. An enhanced cleaning system is look at the membership
the centres under its Better brand,
has introduced a range of COVID-19 in operation, but there are options available and by
safety measures to help keep visitors also some measures that using your HillingdonFirst
and staff safe, including pre-booked residents can help with too. card you can make the most
time slots and one-way systems. Upon arriving of reduced rates.”
GLL will continue to review its When you enter the leisure
COVID-19 procedures and fitness centre, please ensure that
class timetable to ensure they are you are wearing a face
i
in line with the government’s latest covering and please sanitise To book a fitness class, gym or
public health recommendations. your hands. swimming session, download the
Our four leisure Around the centres there Better UK app. Find out more
centres Botwell Green Sports will be: about the range of membership
and Leisure Centre (Hayes), • A one-way system that options and classes available
Highgrove Pool and Fitness Centre you should follow at all times by visiting www.better.org.uk
16 May/June 2021 May/June 2021 17
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