Promiscuous cooks and the art of overcoming isolation

It’s Friday, and earlier today I attended Cllr Marcel's workshop which looked at how new and developing technology can help challenge the issues of isolation and risks of loneliness amongst older people. For a tech-embracing, early adopting, digital native this was of course an exciting opportunity, if a little overdue. Still, it’s on the table and some seriously helpful, progressive people were contributing, so I’m glad that it is happening, and happening properly.

 

Around me were people from very diverse backgrounds – businesses (inc. Barclays with Tea and Teach, Ebay, Adapt2Digital), Councillors and officers, and community groups and organisations. EMAG shared information about their tablet training sessions, AgeUK are offering training and support in using technology, and INS are working with their clients on similar projects. The list goes on.

We ‘mapped’ opportunities, threw around some bright ideas, and found some common points of agreement about how to support older people in embracing tablet technology. There was a clear sense that marketing of current training and support for older people needs to be improved – a key approach would be to pull all the marketing of provision together in to one shared space. You can prove how useful that would be – just try googling ‘ipad help in Richmond’ – RACC have a course that pops up underneath all the Apple related results, but it’s hard to see any of the local courses, drop-in sessions, support etc on offer to help people get the most from their tablets. A single webpage/site that has been optimised for search engines would help these courses reach their audiences better. I look forward to seeing how this develops.

My personal 'bright ideas' (and it’s kind of my blog, so I’m going to take the liberty of sharing them…) include informing hairdressers, PCSOs, Care Providers and any other services that go in to older people’s houses, about local courses on offer, and how they can be accessed. For example, a hairdresser might explain to Mrs Jones that the community centre up the road offers friendly support – so she could perhaps dig that Android tablet out that she got for Christmas, and see if they can help her start to use it – to talk to those children or grandchildren she misses, or share the pictures of weddings she wasn’t able to get to…

And what about retailers? I bet there are hundreds of tablets purchased every year in Richmond, bought by ‘stuck-for-ideas’ offspring to give to ‘less-than-tech-savy’ parents (or grandparents). At the point of sale, a retailer could offer information on local courses so that the recipient knows where to go to learn about this new thing they've been given. And let’s ask Apple if they’ll deliver any of their workshops here in Richmond, much better than trekking all the way to Covent Garden..

Other ideas included intergenerational support - a great opportunity, offering kids hungry for volunteering opportunities the chance to help people who want to learn. There are safeguarding concerns to manage, but they are not insurmountable.

And despite my (slightly arrogant) comment earlier, I also learnt things today. I heard about Breezie for the first time. A Richmond based, app/hardware company that simplifies and condenses an internet experience .. .bringing together browsers, social networks, Skype etc. into one useable app.

And finally, what about Casserole Club? Described by the presenter as offering 'promiscuous cooks' an opportunity to show off their great skills, while overcoming awkward Britishness and the reluctance to knock on your neighbours door… ‘diners’ benefit from great food and regular, meaningful engagement with someone from their local area. Excellent stuff.

What support is on offer for people over 55 in Richmond? How long have you got…?!

On 28th May, Mamta attended the launch of the Teddington and Hampton Community Partnership which promises to be a one point of contact for residents who are older, disabled or facing long term health conditions. This means that instead of a resident calling around a heap of organisations to seek support; they will need only call one number now (0208 8316464). Once the resident’s details are recorded, the advisor (now known as the Information Navigator) will come back to them with details or answers to their questions. For those living in Richmond, Kew, Ham and Petersham that number is 02036934000 and for those living in Barnes, Mortlake, East Sheen, Twickenham and Whitton that number is 02089731877 for the Go Local team.

These new networks are part of the Community Independent Living Service (CILS) which aims to help people live as independently as possible within their community.  Through information, advice, signposting, support groups, social education, cultural events as well as exercise, fitness and training opportunities, CILS is delivered through 'Go Local' and the 'Community Partnership'. For those using these services, they will not notice anything different. If you’ve always gone to a day centre for a hot lunch on a weekday, you will still get the same experience you’ve always had. It’s for those starting this process anew: CILS promises to deliver a seamless experience.

We think this new service is essential, as there are a lot of services provided for Richmond residents – so many in fact that it’s sometimes hard to work out where to start. In this post, we take a look at some of them.

Hamptons and Teddington Community Partnership

Linden Hall on Linden Road in Hampton runs services on all days except Wednesdays. They offer a freshly cooked hot meal at midday (£5.00 for members and £6.00 for non members). From a hairdressing and chiropody service to gentle exercise, word puzzles, Hoy, Bingo and coffee mornings, Linden Hall offers older residents a place to meet friends, old and new. Tel: 020 8941 2373

The Greenwood Centre is a vibrant community hub on School Road in Hampton Hill, offering a venue to various charities and community groups. At its heart, there are two services that reach out to isolated residents in the community: the befriending service and transport service. With the help of these two, residents can connect with local activities and services. The befriending service offers a one to one reliable relationship to those who are living on their own, helping to relieve their loneliness and to build their confidence to become more independent. The transport service, for instance, picks up older residents to bring them to Linden Hall for a hot lunch or takes people on shopping trips to Sainsbury’s. (02089799662) 

Elleray Hall in Teddington describes itself as a lively social club for older people where they can have a coffee, chat with friends and have a hot home cooked meal. With a range of activities, entertainment and outings, Elleray Hall members have a busy calendar! Through their voluntary care group, members can benefit from support to attend a GP appointment, or help to collect prescription and even shopping trips to the local supermarket.

Richmond, Kew, Ham and Petersham Community Partnership

The Avenue Club (in Kew) provides a social base for the Over 50’s who want to get the most out of life.  There is so much going on here every day; you can join the Choir led by talented choirmaster Michael McLauglin, play Bridge or indulge in one of the many Services and Therapies on offer such as hairdressing, manicure and hand massages or try Aromatherapy, Reiki or Reflexology!  You can join day trips out and take exercise classes like Pilates,Yoga or the ever popular Line-dancing.  

Running from the Woodville Centre, Ham and Petersham SOS helps older or disabled people with shopping trips, doctors visits and social outings. The very enthusiastic Sam Payne keeps everything organised, and is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers. You can get in contact through the website, or give them a ring on 020 8948 1090

Go Local partnership

Age UK Richmond has several services for the older resident. They have an outreach service that

offers telephone befriending, introduction with the help of volunteers to social clubs and digital support tuition.  Their objective is to encourage people to enjoy a healthy and rewarding life that makes living longer a real cause for celebration. They run the Twickenham Wellbeing Centre on Arragon Road. The name doesn’t give much away, but there is a very comprehensive programme of activities on offer including computer courses, exercise classes, yoga, pilates, art classes, discussion groups and outings to interesting places as well as providing a friendly place to meet friends or just drop in for a coffee or tea and chat. They also offer subsidised services such as chiropody, hairdressing, therapy and beauty treatments.Give them a ring to find out more  020 8538 9254.

Age UK Richmond also run Whitton Social Centre (111a Kneller Road), a lively community resource that offers a range of activities and outings. Here they encourage people to enjoy a healthy and rewarding life that makes living longer a real cause for celebration.

Barnes Green Centre (on the green, in Barnes!)  is a fantastic centre that offers a wide range of attractions for people over 50.  It is definitely worth popping in to take a look at what is on offer, and while you’re there say ‘hello’ to the wonderful Alan who runs it

As well as general advice on health and wellbeing you can have monthly confidential health checks by a registered general nurse, or give Pilates, Tai Chi or Yoga a go!  The Centre always smells lovely with tasty home cooked hot lunches available every day, as well as lots of social activities, talks and trips to go on.  There is always something on at the Barnes Green Social Centre! (Telephone: 020 8876 2377)

More services in the borough

Hampton on Thames Community Centre offer social, recreational and educational activities to young and old in the Hamptons and nearby areas. You can find them at The White House, 45 The Avenue 020 8979 1884.

RHP’s Dean Road, Extra Care Scheme is the borough’s flagship independent living scheme for older residents. Dean Road managers are keen to have residents from the local area attend their Wednesday Open Days from 10:30 which are run in partnership with Linden Hall’s outreach service. Coffee morning, bingo and subsidised hairdressing, chiropody and beauty treatments are all offered here. Denise Estick is the scheme Scheme Manager and you can contact her on 020 8941 8951 or by email Denise.Estick@rhp.org.uk

Mortlake Community Association encourages local people to get involved in community life. With many activities for people of all ages and interests, you can join in activities such as Healthy Cooking on a Budget, join the Positive Living Group, try some Gentle Exercise or spend the afternoon doing some Social Dancing!

However basic or advanced your computers skills are there is the Computers for Everyday Life group or why not give the Mind Music Group a go?  The popular Reminiscence Group is always looking for people to bring their stories and tales of life in and around Mortlake. If you have any ideas or want to start a new group or try something different, then contact Mary, the MCA Manager who will be delighted to discuss your ideas with you. (020 8878 7256 )

The Cambrian Centre at Caplan Court in Richmond is run by the community, in the community, for

the community.  There are so many interesting things going on, including Life Drawing, Line dancing, Tai Chi and Pilates, or if you’ve ever fancied learning Bridge then why not give the Bridge Group for Beginners a go? You can relax with the Meditation class run by Samantha – a traditional Buddhist breathing-mindfulness practice that develops concentration, inner strength and wisdom.  There are also support groups that run from the centre including for those who have a hearing impairment Parkinson’s People, a group that supports people with Parkinson’s Disease. The Cambrian Centre is also home to the Community Gym - a very friendly fitness and exercise facility offering a low cost option for users of all abilities in an informal and comfortable atmosphere.

In Barnes, the Castelnau Community Project not only looks great since the refurb, it has excellent facilities, with a large hall with a stage, café area, computer room and lots of fantastic activities for the over 50’s. What about ‘Goldies Exercise’ – a gentle chair based exercise or if you’re feeling a bit more lively have a go at Zumba Gold - the classic Zumba class but gentler!  If you are looking for work there is a Job Club that offers support, information and advice sessions.  If you’re feeling peckish pop into the daily café or join the monthly Community Lunch group where good food and good company are guaranteed!  You can also take part in Day Trips or if you are interested in non-specific Over 50s activities, there is a lot more on including furniture recycling classes and a theatre group.  You could even become a volunteer - get to meet new people, have fun and maybe learn something in return!

FiSH Neighbourhood Care provides voluntary help for the residents of Barnes, Mortlake & East Sheen with the aim of combating loneliness and providing practical support.  FiSH is run from the Barnes Green Centre and put on lots of activities that you can take part in including; the FiSH Choir, weekly talks, accessible shopping trips to local supermarkets, FiSH 'n' Chats, movies at the Olympic Cinema as well as Dementia Friends training.  It really is worth popping into the centre to see what is on offer.

 London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames Specialist Day Centres

Sheen Lane Day Centre is a Centre of Excellence for Richmond residents aged over 60, with long term physical ill-health, who might otherwise be isolated in the community. The Centre is a great place to socialise and meet new friends, offering support for those with higher care needs based around individual care plans and an allocated key worker. The Sheen Lane Day Centre runs classes on flower arrangement, art and poetry and much more. They have rehabilitation support to improve mobility, living skills and referrals to occupational therapists and physiotherapists. 74 Sheen Lane, TW11 8EZ. To receive information about the service, fill in this online form.

The Woodville Centre in Ham is for older people diagnosed with dementia. It is highly regarded and offers a safe and friendly environment. Clients are encouraged to move around freely and enjoy all of the facilities available. There are even some pets to make friends with!

The services are designed to support individuals who need specialist care and offer respite to their carers. They run group activities which encourage social interaction and provide an opportunity to meet new friends.

The Access project is run by Richmond Council for adults with a disability or sensory loss.

They offer a wide range of activities in a fun social environment in Whitton. It’s easy to pop along to meet up with friends or make new ones, you can build confidence by taking part in group discussions, or learn a new skill such as photography. Importantly, anyone using the service will be given a key worker who can offer you advice on a range of issues such as employment, education or welfare.

We found putting this list together really helpful for our own understanding - but we're sure we've probably missed something, or someone! Get in touch if you know of a service or group that we should be aware of. We can't list them all here, but we'd like to know about them!

What's On in Richmond upon Thames - Summer Fairs

Last weekend Mamta and Lynette enjoyed Chestnut Sunday and Richmond May Fair. Inspired by these great events we thought we'd look forward to the borough's Village Summer Fairs and public events. This is just a slice of the action, there is so much more going on in London's most attractive borough!  The beautiful Royal parks, historic houses, theatres, museums & galleries all have their own events so please take a look at the Visit Richmond site to find out more: www.visitrichmond.co.uk

Hampton Fun Day -  Sat 17 May 12 - 6pm - Top Field above Hampton Football Club 

The 4^th annual Fun Day is set to be even bigger & better than last year with fun for the whole family. You can enjoy rides, bouncy castles, games, pony rides, a craft area & plenty of different stalls.  Listen to some great Live Music whilst sampling some of the wonderful food on offer in the covered 'Cafe / Picnic area' (we're hoping for a sunny day) or in the beer tent! £1 entry. 

HANDS Charities Fair - Bank Holiday Monday 26 May - Twickenham Green 10 – 3pm

With over 75 charity stalls selling crafts, plants, gifts, bric-a-brac, toys, home-made cakes & refreshments, a barbecue & amusements for children, come & support your local charities & voluntary organisations! The Mayor of Richmond will begin a tour of the stalls at 11am. 

handscaregroup@btconnect.com

‘A Spring in Our Step’ 29 May at Hampton Youth Project 11 - 3pm  RHP are holding this free event  focussing on work, well-being & education. An exciting day of workshops & drop-in sessions aimed at finding employment, training, saving money & learning practical skills such as basic home repairs & cookery are all on offer, as well as one-to-one support & help with tablet & smartphone devices from RHP’s Digital Champions!  Exhibitors include Sainsbury's, Citizens Advice Bureau, Jobcentre Plus & Way to Work.  Assisted reading volunteers will be reading some classic children’s stories & you will have the chance to receive a free book with RHP’s chosen charity, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

Bring along the flyer & hand it to a RHP team member to be entered into a prize draw to win a Hudl tablet! http://ow.ly/wPlwg

Richmond Volunteering Fair Wednesday 4 June at York House 

Interested in Volunteering?  Pop along to meet over 35 charities & organisations looking for volunteers & also get expert information & advice from Volunteering Richmond staff. http://ow.ly/wQ2mr   

Strawberry Hill Fun Day - Sunday 20 July - 12- 7:30pm
www.twickenhamalive.com

A fundraising fun day to support Strawberry Hill House, run by Twickenham Alive, in the grounds of the house on Waldegrave Road.

Fun for all the family with a live music stage, food Stalls, large bar and Pimms tent, craft and charity stalls, fairground, Shetland pony rides and Water Zorbers! Music from Lips, Michelle Luscombe and Band, K, The Deputies , Alix Anthony, The Carnabys and Nark Drool & The Shudders

Ham Fair - June 14 - Ham Common 11 - 4:30pm hamfair@gmail.com

This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Ham Fair, organised by Ham Amenities Group.  This great family day out has the usual wide variety of stalls – food, clothing, antiques, jewellery to name but a few – entertainment, art, music, a Dog Show, as well as surprise items to mark the 30th Anniversary!

Kew Midsummer Fete Sat 21 June 
11 - 6pm  Kew Green http://ow.ly/wPojP

Enjoy a fun family day out at a traditional village fete in the lovely setting of Kew Green.

With vintage fairground rides, over 100 stalls including a craft marquee, delicious food & drink, this Fair has a wonderful festival atmosphere with local bands & live events throughout the day. Plus of course the attractions no great fete can be without – a friendly dog show, a fun tug-of-war & a grand charity raffle.  Run by local people for local people in aid of local good causes, Kew fete is a much-loved annual highlight – so roll up, roll up for a great day out! 

Mortlake Summer Fair Sat 28 June 12:00 – 4pm Stag Brewery Green   http://ow.ly/wPp8N

This year's family-friendly fair will feature a crafts & produce market, family sports, children's attractions including inflatables, live music, a wheel of fortune & a grand raffle - not to mention a mouth-water array of food & drink to satisfy all tastes.  Admission is £2 per person.  

Twickenham Green Fete  Sunday 6 July   http://ow.ly/wPtWF

Enjoy a fabulous family fun day out with a band, stalls & lots of activities for all to enjoy! 

St Margarets Fair Sat 12 July 12:00 – 7:30pm Moormead    www.stmargaretsfair.org

Whilst the main objective is to continue to provide an enjoyable community day for residents of St Margarets any profit they make supports local charities & schools. This fun family event has a Tea Tent, Beer Tent, Pimms Stall, BBQ, Silent Auction & a Coconut Shy! 

Barnes Village Fair Sat 12 July Barnes Green 

The 40^th year will see the Grand Parade open proceedings with decorated floats & vintage vehicles, while the rest of the day is packed with activities & entertainment including live music, fairground rides, Inter-Schools Quiz, clowns & theatre. There are over 300 stalls selling everything from plants to vintage clothing as well as a wonderful selection of food & drink on offer.  www.barnesfair.com

Teddington River Festival & RNLI Lifeboat Open Day Sun 27 July 11 - 5pm www.teddingtonriverfestival.com

There’s so much to do!  At the Lock Island & Towpath there’s live music, 'A River View' photography competition, face painting, Pimms & ale Bar, lots of arts, crafts & community stands & fairground rides. Take a look around Teddington Lifeboat Station, have a go at kayaking with The Lensbury in the Barge Lock or take a peek at The Thames Venturer!  

At Manor Road Rec there will be RNLI Stalls, Model lifeboats & children's games, Trampolines & inflatables, Yoga & Face painting for kids, NPL Rockets, a Historical display of Teddington as well as a BBQ & Refreshments.

On the River watch RNLI River Rescue & Teddington Sub-Aqua Club 'Roped Diver' demonstrations or have a go at kiffing with The Skiff Club or take a leisurely Boat ride down the Thames.

 Hampton Wick Festival & Grand Parade Sun 10 Aug 12pm http://ow.ly/wPLnx

The biggest day in Hampton Wick, with many craft & community stalls & a Grand parade there is something for everyone! 

Richmond Fine Food & Real Ale Festival August Bank Holiday Sat 23 - Mon 25 Aug Old Deer Park 

A heady mix of fabulous food & real ale awaits you with chef demonstrations, tasting sessions, culinary master class talks, a host of local artisan food producers & exciting world food stands as well as the beer & cider festival where 100 cask ales will be on offer as well as craft beers, ciders & perries.  Thrown into the mix is a varied entertainment programme, a Tug of War contest, a Bake Off competition & an array of family entertainment on the Village Green.

There’s live music organised by Richmond's Crawdaddy Club along with some very talented local bands supporting the headline acts: MARTIN TURNER of WISHBONE ASH, JO HARMAN with her award winning world class band & the long awaited reunion gig of 70's British Soul pioneers KOKOMO! £40.00 for a weekend ticket  www.richmondfoodandale.co.uk

Kew Horticultural Summer Show  

Sat 30 Aug Kew Green http://ow.ly/wPRus

The 70th Annual Summer Show takes place in a marquee & although vegetables, fruit & flowers play the major part, there is something for everyone - photography, arts & crafts, cookery & special classes for children. There are many stalls, a lively jazz band, BBQ & tea tent. Profits from the show will go to local & horticultural charities. Stalls open from 11.00am; marquee opens at 1.30pm.

Richmond Running Festival Sun 21 Sep www.richmondrunningfestival.com

London's most EXCLUSIVE half marathon &10k event - the only race that runs in the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew! Remember to save some energy for the music festival after the race where you can celebrate with your friends & family in the heart of Richmond.

The Great River Race - 21.6 Miles from London Docklands to Ham Sat 27 Sep  

www.greatriverrace.co.uk

The Great River Race is London's River Marathon - a spectacular boat race up the River Thames that attracts over 300 crews from all over the globe, appealing to every level of competitor from those who enjoy fun, fancy dress & charity stunts, to serious sportsmen & women.  A great fun day out for competitors & spectators alike. 

Do you know all of these local funders...?

You or your group may have a great idea to benefit this excellent Borough. A great idea will only get so far however. It (probably) needs people, direction and resources. By resources, we more often than not mean cash.

The Community Links Team have brought together a few of the key funders that we are aware of that could help turn your idea in to a reality.

Comic Relief Local Communities Programme

Aims to empower local people, enabling them to create lasting change in their communities. Projects should be run by local people directly affected by the issues they are dealing with, priority will be given to small, locally based groups in areas of disadvantage that have a clear understanding of the needs of their community. You can apply for funding to increase local services; build skills of local people; increase community cohesion & respond to local economic needs.

Rowan Bentall Charitable Trust (part of LCF)
Supporting small grassroots organisations, this fund supports projects led by local people that improve the quality of life for residents. Grants range from £500 - £1,000. For further details please contact Jennifer Oatley on jennifer@londoncf.org.uk or call 0207 582 5117

Hampton Fuel Allotment Charity

Community Grants are available for charities, voluntary sector organisations and community groups. It’s best to read the guidance notes before completing the application form and to check whether your group fits the criteria of the Charity. The HFAC supports local charities, groups and community organisations deliver their services by funding operating costs, staff positions and equipment. The Charity is most known for its support of the most vulnerable in Richmond: the elderly through fuel grants, students with support for their travel and journeys, and families in difficulty with essential goods.

Heritage Lottery Fund – WW1 Events

Heritage Lottery Fund can provide funding to help groups, communities and organisations mark the Centenary by exploring, conserving and sharing the heritage of the First World War, from memorials, buildings and sites, to photographs, letters and literature.

Richmond Parish Lands Charity

The principal objectives are the making of grants for charitable purposes to voluntary organisations in Richmond & a charitable housing operation comprising nearly 100 properties. Grants are available that benefit people living in post code areas of TW9, TW10 or SW14.

Civic Pride Fund (Richmond Council)

Constituted organisations can apply for a grant of up to £5,000. Individuals and informal groups can apply for a grant of up to £1,000. The Civic Pride Fund is intended to help communities launch new ideas rather than repeat fund projects, or fund projects requiring ongoing funding. For advice on obtaining ongoing funding please contact the Sustainability and Skills Partnership service run by Richmond CVS.
To talk through your ideas or if you require any other assistance please contact: Katrina Ffrench, Voluntary Sector Project Support Officer. Telephone: 020 8831 6020; katrina.ffrench@richmond.gov.uk.

The Barnes Workhouse Fund 
The object of the Charity is to benefit the inhabitants of the area of the 'Ancient Parish of Barnes', which broadly corresponds with the postal area of  SW13. It aims to aid in the relief of the aged, impotent and poor, the relief of distress and sickness, the provision and support of facilities for recreation or other leisure time occupation (with the object of improving the conditions of life for the said inhabitants in the interests of social welfare), and the provision and support of educational facilities.

Heathrow Community Fund

The focus of this fund is on projects linked to the environment and employment/skills development. In 2014 around £500,000 will be available through three distinct grant programmes.

Awards For All
Awards for All gives groups a quick and easy way to get small Lottery grants of between £300 and £10,000. Most of the projects funded by them go to a range of community projects aimed at developing skills, improving health, revitalising the local environment and enabling people to become more active citizens. You can apply  if you are a community group, not for profit group, parish or town council, health body, or school. You do not need to be a registered charity to apply.  This is a useful grant for pilot projects, new ideas and new organisations to try out their ideas.

Community Learning Fund (Richmond Council)

The Community Learning team are really keen to hear from organisations that can offer taster sessions or short courses for the following groups:  Carers and volunteers, Families on low incomes, Parents facing hardship, Socially isolated adults, Adults with mental health difficulties, Adults with learning difficulties or disabilities, Mature learners (over 60’s), Young adults leaving care, Adults living in sheltered or temporary housing

School of Industry grant
Makes grants to enable young people (under 21, and who live in Hampton/Hampton Hill) to study at college or enter a trade. In situations where there is financial hardship at home, the charity might be able to help with tuition fees, travelling or maintenance expenses.  Application forms can be collected from c/0 Jubilee House, Ashley Road, HAMPTON, TW12 2HX.

The Victoria Foundation

The charity’s objectives are very broad, but firmly medical, with the overall aim of improving lives where there is an opportunity to do so - either through medical provision or by ensuring that those young people destined to become the future generations of doctors are not thwarted by financial restrictions.  They welcome applications from registered charities & organisations with projects that have a recognisable charitable purpose.

None of this helps me.. where else can I look?
The following two organisations are well placed for getting further funding ideas.

Richmond Upon Thames Council for Voluntary Service
Working with Richmond charities, voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises & individuals looking to start up a new organisation with a social purpose. Richmond CVS provides support, advice & training in relation to all aspects of charity, community and voluntary activity within the borough. They also list local funding opportunities on their website.

SWLEN

Supporting local environmental groups & projects to protect & improve the environment.  The South West London Environment Network support people who want to start or run an environmental group or projects. In short SWLEN can help you get your project off the ground and keep it running smoothly. They also list local funding opportunities for environmental projects.




You can also search Richmond's funding portal Open 4 Community 


If you are furiously clicking your mouse (or poking your iPad screen) in disgust that we've missed your favourite local funder, please get in touch... we'd like to hear about them!

30 minutes with… Felix Holman - Hampton resident and Director of Programmes at StreetInvest.

A Twickenham based charity is launching an ambitious awareness campaign and fundraiser that will see three people cycle across Canada, coast to coast, in a world record 13 days. They want people across Richmond to get behind them, and join them on their journey by organising more events to cycle a total of 55,000 miles (the distance between all their projects). I caught up with Felix Holman from StreetInvest, whose twin brother is also one of the cyclists, to find out more.

So first, tell us a bit about StreetInvest

We’re an international charity, based in a little office on London Road. The core of our work is to provide a trustworthy adult for every street child, through training and support of local people across the world. We currently have nine projects on four continents running in countries including India, Sierra Leone and Togo.

What do you do?

We see children as having capacities, resilience, and potential. We help others to share this view and it makes us proud to be able to help them to achieve this. In a sense we are supporting and training people who help young people to find their path. We also want to protect them from abuses whether physical or abuses against their rights, however it is also about dialogue and ‘signposting’ to the next stage in their lives.

I guess we’re in the business of professionalising services for young people, because we believe they are entitled to high quality support. As a result we believe we are resolving social issues, longer term.

So what is it about StreetInvest that sparks your passion, over other charities?

I have worked with street children for over 10 years. What draws me is the personal experiences of meeting street children, who are ignored by their communities at best, mistreated at worst. As a mother I found it impossible to understand how a child in need could be ignored. What I want for a street child is what I'd want for any child.

As you talk to me your sense of pride comes over very strongly?

I share the pride that StreetInvest has in being connected with street children wherever they are in the world, and to be doing something real and practical to help. Also, I believe we have identified a real gap in working directly with street children. Other NGOs offer a lot of help through shelters, refuges and relief, but we are offering something unique.

What relevance does StreetInvest have for children and young people in the UK? 

The context is different, but the child is the same. It’s about how we respond to the child – starting with an acknowledgement of their rights, skills and capacities. Many young people here experience issues of low income, choose risky behaviours, and are at risk of harm. We want to inspire street workers to work with young people to build on their capacities, rather than seeing them simply as beneficiaries of services.

We’ve trained workers in the Chiltern Hills and Edinburgh - volunteers from a drop in project through to professional social workers. We are looking to deliver training to schools and youth groups.

So what big projects have you got going on at the moment?

On Saturday 12^th April, the International Day for Street Children, we are launching ‘Join Our Journey’. Three supporters who passionately believe in our work are undertaking a mammoth cycle trek across Canada, and we want people from across the borough to do their own bit by getting sponsored to “virtually” join them on part of their journey. We want everyone to ride at least a mile anywhere, in any way they can and raise at least £1.

It's a fundraiser and awareness raiser, which is why the launch is on International Day of the Street Child where street-connected youth organisations link up to highlight their message and celebrate their work.

How can schools, groups or others get involved?

‘Join our Journey’ has been designed to make it as easy as possible for others to get involved - whether companies, schools or individuals.  We will be running a number of events directly (including a Majorca ride in September) but, ideally, a school or local business could organise their own event to include their students, staff and/or customers.  This could be anything from a sponsored cycle round the playing fields to a Lands End to John O’Groats marathon or a fixed bike in the front room with a set target mileage to cycle by 12^th April 2015. We hope that everyone would be sponsored at least £1 per mile (£1 is the cost of putting a trustworthy adult in the life of one more street child for one more month in the poorest countries of the world).Links to either the countries of the children, whether Africa, India or UK and the issues that matter to them, such as shelter, food, education and livelihood are possible too. And both StreetInvest and the cyclists are available to give presentations, training and motivational speaking opportunities. Anyone interested can get in touch on info@streetinvest.org

As we were finishing our coffee, Felix left me with a quote from a street worker that she said really struck a chord with her, and sums up what she feels about the work she is so passionately involved with.

“What you hope for is that some young people you meet on the streets will end up looking back one day on the past and on their youth, thinking ‘In the end, all things considered, I think it all went well’. I don’t think that an entire life can be determined by ONE single factor. I think there are many elements that make up a complex system which can, in the end, lead to a positive outcome. Every puzzle is made up of numerous pieces. I hope that in my work as a street worker, I manage to strengthen the capabilities of young people and that I might be a small piece in someone’s puzzle.” 

From a Street Workers’ workshop in Sweden.

Community Links : From dawn until dusk...

I had the pleasure of hosting two meetings this week, in my Village Areas. Two very different meetings, at the extreme ends of the working day.

On Tuesday morning I was up at dawn to meet with local business people from the Village area of Strawberry Hill, over eggs, bacon and coffee at the Golf Club. What's the Community Links Officer doing running business breakfasts you might ask? Well, once upon a time.. Back in  December '13 I ran a community meeting for residents in Strawberry Hill (SH for here on..apologies for the shorthand). One of the outcomes from that meeting was a desire from the community to see more support for local businesses, and to see them more involved with the SH community.

At the meeting we heard that there are thought to be over 100 small businesses working from home in SH. The Council's Economic Development Team is keen to support the development of business networks across the borough. Building this on to my interest in seeing how all local people could do their community bit, I see this as an excellent fit for Community Links.

I was really pleased to welcome 14 businesses to the meeting, on top of which I also received keen apologies from a further six. Everyone I spoke with was grateful for the opportunity to come along and introduce themselves, and were keen to see what happens next... Of course what happens next is up to those that are involved in the group, but my colleagues Susan and Sean and I will be on hand to support them realise their ambitions.

During more regular hours, Lynette attended a 'Dementia Friends' Information Session at Twickenham Library.  Here's what she had to say about it:

"I would really recommend everybody taking part in this free short session (approx. 1:30hrs).  It was so informative and really made you think what it is like to have dementia, and how this can affect your daily activities.  It is a cleverly put together interactive session that offers tips and ideas on how you can interact with people who suffer from this horrendous disease, who you may meet when you are out and about.  I came away with more insight and a much clearer understanding of how I can help make these people's lives just that little bit easier, and feel more confident in carrying on with public life.  My pledge is to spread the word about this truly wonderful training throughout the communities of Richmond."

This short video tells you all about it:

Later in the week I hosted an evening community meeting in St Margaret's, which brings together quite a mix of local people who all seem to have one thing in common - they care passionately about St Margaret's. There is a growing challenge though - acknowledged by some of the regular attenders as well as myself, and that is that each meeting feels like a 'first meeting'. New ideas and new faces are very welcome, but it also means there isn't a sense of progress. The 'original' members were unable to pursue their original project idea, but have agreed to look at others. I'm happy to continue to work with this, but I fear that good will and passion will soon begin to run low if there aren't some tangible projects to get stuck in to. 

What we need in this group is someone who is willing to take on the role of 'lead'. Perhaps, somewhat ironically, this is currently falling to me.. But it cannot be me as I am neither local, nor is it a long term solution! I am looking forward to carrying out the main action of this meeting though...organise a 'green walkabout' of St Margaret's, for local residents to point out opportunities they have seen that have potential for 'greening up' either through a flower bed, patch of grass or a hanging basket.

Until next time!

What was Mr Motivators' key to success?

Another fantastic week draws to a close, and when I take a moment to look back at what I have been involved in, in some way or another, I do wonder quite how it all fits in! Monday I find myself in St Margarets. I organised an open, public meeting, where the invitation was extended to anyone that had an interest in the area. Nothing contentious to discuss, which is often a strong driver for people to come to public events. I was really pleased to welcome a group of people who turned up simply because they love the area they live in, and would like to contribute in some way, if they can. Oh..well, there might have been

some cynicism that the council was ‘up to something’, but that was laid to rest pretty quickly!

Tuesday I joined the discussion about how the boroughs plans to commemorate World War 1 are going. There is a great opportunity for local people who have family lineage connections with the Great War, as well as sharing stories, education and simply reflecting on the sacrifices that were made.

Mr Motivator was
unavailable for comment

Later in the week I attended the launch of Energy Smart Richmond, the borough initiative which should help residents save energy (and money), and help the borough reduce its carbon footprint. It’s not easy though, and as has been a bit of a recurring theme this week, I ask myself… what will motivate people to do something like this?

When you look at the theories of motivation, of which there are many, there are often two basic questions to address. What will doing X cost me? What will I get out of doing X?

To invite a stranger in to your house, spend time with them, process the paper work, then endure the period when work will be carried out on your house is a fairly big personal cost. But it is only a short term cost. The long term benefits...saving money on energy bills, reducing the carbon footprint, perhaps making a better world for our children’s children ... are supremely worthwhile long term gains. 

However, when it comes to motivation, humans are notoriously bad at giving in to the short term costs/wins. Anyone that has tried giving up smoking, or started a new gym regime will attest to this, I'm sure. If you start to throw in easy reasons for people to not opt-in (Will the installer do a good job? How can I trust them? Etc) then encouraging take up will be tough.

Energy Smart Richmond will be a great scheme though, and the Council’s partners, ClimateEnergy are very aware of some of these challenges. Residents can be involved as beneficiaries, street champions, or installers. This is what excites me about this initiative – it can be very ‘Richmond’ orientated. Local trades people are encouraged to do the work, and can receive training to do the best job, local people are to be recruited as street champions to spread the word to their neighbours. This approach has already been demonstrated with exceptional results in Ham, by the Low Carbon Zone Street Champions. Altogether a more people centred approach, I felt.

As an end note, the Community Links Coordinator is NOT about to update his wardrobe with multi-colour spandex. Just for the record.