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Your local magazine from Islington Council
IslingtonLife
Issue 49, Winter 2012
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
New home for local family in time for Christmas p.13
Much-loved baths
reopen p.4-5
Seasonal opening hours and
free parking vouchers p.16-17
Is Christmas costing
too much? p.19

Contents
Cover: Sue and her son, Michael, of N1 are looking forward to Christmas in their new council home. See page 13.
Inside
this issue
3 Welcome
4-7 News
Ellie Simmonds opens much-loved baths
Pat Cash launches tennis wall for youngsters
8-11 Safer Islington
Tackling alcohol-related harm
Travel safely this Christmas
The next
edition of
IslingtonLife
will be out in
March 2013.
12-13 Your home
Christmas at home
Get a foot on the housing ladder in Islington
14-15 Young Islington
Young people create arts spectacular
Update from the Youth Council
16-17 Christmas in Islington
Seasonal opening hours for council services
Free parking vouchers
19 Money advice
Is Christmas costing too much?
20-21 Local life
Helping parents back into work
Energy and money saving advice
FEATURE
22-23 Healthy living
Drink sensibly for a healthier future
Winter-proof your workout
24-25 People and places
A quick guide to Bunhill Ward
Bright Sparks moves into furniture
26-27 Noticeboard
Free hire of the Islington Assembly Hall
Are you in the draw to win £3,000?
28-29 Arsenal in the community
30-31 What’s on
LGBT History Month 2013
Get ready to Dance Izzy!
2

Welcome
www.islington.gov.uk
Cllr Catherine West,
Leader of the Council
Top right
Catherine volunteering at last year's
Pensioners' Christmas Lunch.
Bottom right
Catherine celebrated London Living Wage
Week last month.
For many, Christmas is a time for
family and the people you love. For
the family on page 13 who have
finally moved out of their temporary
accommodation, it will be a wonderful
first Christmas in a new home. Their
story is a powerful reminder of why
we’re investing in the biggest council
house building programme for thirty
years.
Overcrowding ruins lives; causing
stress, ill health, stopping children from
studying and destroying relationships.
We’re on the side of our community
and over the next two years, many
more Islington families currently living
in overcrowded conditions will move
to a safe, secure new home that
better fits their family’s needs.
It has been another tough year
and with government cuts hitting our
community hard, we know people
are feeling the pain. We will continue
to fund the independent debt and
welfare advice (see page 19) that
acts as a vital lifeline in times of
crisis and focus what we do have on
those that most need our help, from
bursaries to keep young people in
education to bringing more of the
lowest paid workers onto the Living
Wage. I am particularly proud that this
year we became one of the UK’s first
Living Wage councils and now we’re
working to encourage employers in
Islington to do the same.
For the third year I will be joining
my councillor colleagues and serving
lunch at our Pensioners Christmas
Party in the Assembly Hall. Older people
bring so much to our community, and
we’re now looking for a second older
people’s champion. If you have ideas and
enthusiasm, find out how you can put
yourself forward for this volunteer role
on page 21.
On behalf of Islington Council, a very
happy Christmas and a peaceful New
Year.
Cllr West said:
“Everyone deserves a
fair day’s pay for a fair
day’s work.
“Being paid a Living
Wage of £8.55 per
hour makes a huge
difference to the
lives of our residents,
workers and their
families. We’re proud to
be one of the UK’s first
Living Wage councils.”
Other formats
If you would like
IslingtonLife in large
print, audiotape, or
another format, please
call 020 7527 3416.
3

News
Where else
to work out
in Islington?
Image courtesy of Aquaterra Leisure
Islington is lucky to have a great range
of leisure centres across the borough.
Aquaterra Leisure manages six
centres for Islington Council which
have all been awarded the prestigious
Customer Service Excellence standard
and Aquaterra holds the Investors in
People award at Gold Status level.
Centres in Islington include:
Archway Leisure Centre,
Macdonald Road, N19 5DD
Cally Pool,
Caledonian Road, N1 0NH
Finsbury Leisure Centre,
Norman Street, EC1V 3PU
Highbury Pool,
Highbury Crescent, N5 1RR
Islington Tennis Centre,
Market Road, N7 9PL
Sobell Leisure Centre,
Hornsey Road, N7 7NY
For more information on
leisure centres and sports
4
facilities in Islington visit
www.islington.gov.uk/
leisurecentres
To find out more about your
local Aquaterra centre, visit
www.aquaterra.org
The main arena at the Sobell
Leisure Centre
Sporting hero opens
much-loved baths
Ellie Simmonds and local school kids at the opening swimming gala
Sporting hero Ellie Simmonds was
guest of honour at a swimming
gala to celebrate the £16.5 million
transformation of Islington's
much-loved Ironmonger Row Baths
last month.
Ellie, who won two Gold medals at
the London 2012 Paralympic Games
and two at the 2008 Paralympics in
Beijing, joined the Mayor of Islington
to officially open the Baths, near Old
Street, EC1. She also met young
people taking part in a celebratory
swimming gala to mark the end of the
refurbishment.
Ellie Simmonds said:
“It is a great facility for the whole
Islington community, with not just the
pool but the Turkish Baths downstairs,
and the gym. It is modern but also keeps
the old traditions.
“There were some great swimmers
out there - hopefully if they use this
great facility all the time there will be
some future Olympic swimmers.”
Cllr Janet Burgess, Islington Council's
executive member for health and
wellbeing, said:
“We’re on the side of residents and
want to help everyone enjoy healthy,
active lives.
“The new-look Ironmonger Row
Baths is an exceptional place for
residents to swim, exercise and relax,
and a lasting legacy of this Olympic year.
“Ironmonger Row Baths is for all,
whether young or old, fit or less active,
and is fully accessible for disabled people.
“It was wonderful to have Ellie
Simmonds as guest of honour, and for
young Islington swimmers to have the
chance to meet a true sporting hero.”
The Baths opened to the general
public on 24 November with a special
weekend of community events including
free swimming and introductory offers
4

www.islington.gov.uk
Training pool
Gym
Sauna
Newer
and better
After more than 70 years of wear
and tear, the much-loved Ironmonger
Row Baths building had started to
show its age, and in 2010 major
refurbishment work started, including:
a full restoration of the main pool,
with improved water circulation and
healthier swimming environment
a new training pool with moveable
floor, to improve access for
learners and disabled people
work to make the 1930s building
fully accessible and welcoming for
disabled people
a new exercise studio, greatly
enlarged gym and cardio zone
restoration of the historic Turkish
Baths, and new expanded spa area
modern, expanded changing
rooms for swimmers and gymgoers
a careful refurbishment of the
historic Grade II-listed building
a new public laundry for the local
community
Local school kids celebrate the opening of Ironmonger Row Baths
for the Turkish Baths and spa.
The refurbishment was funded by
the council and the now defunct EC1
New Deal for Communities. The Baths
are operated by GLL, who run more
than100 facilities, mostly in London,
under the Better brand.
The newly opened Baths have also
brought job opportunities for local
people, with 18 residents so far securing
work after a joint recruitment drive by
GLL and the council.
For an opportunity to try
Ironmonger Row Baths,
turn to page 23 for a
special introductory offer.
Fact file
The Baths opened in 1931 as a
washhouse for local people. The
swimming pool opened 7 years later
with an official ceremony followed
by a swimming gala – just as the
refurbished baths were re-opened
last month.
5

News
Islington celebrates London Living Wage Week
The Living Wage campaign’s
banner was raised over the
Town Hall to celebrate Living
Wage Week in November.
Islington was one of the
first Living Wage authorities
in the country to gain the
accreditation. Since then,
the council’s support for the
Living Wage includes:
increasing the wages of
approximately 110 lowpaid
council staff, mostly
women, and 80 per cent
of its contractors
helping Samuel Rhodes
School become Islington's
first accredited Living
Wage school, and working
with 14 more schools to
help them get accredited
encouraging 24 of the
25 Tenant Management
Organisations (TMOs) to
go Living Wage
working with private
sector employers,
including Schools Office
Services, which now pays
more than 100 staff a
Living Wage
working with Islington's
voluntary sector
employers, including
Voluntary Action Islington,
which is now an accredited
Living Wage employer
working with local
employers to adopt the
Living Wage, for at least
760 Islington based staff
across private public and
voluntary sectors.
For more
information and
6 case studies visit,
www.islington.
gov.uk/livingwage
Students from Samuel Rhodes School
Sign up to My eAccount
Over 80,000 residents have
already signed up and are
accessing a wide range of
council services online.
Why is My eAccount better?
You take control – access
services and information whenever you like
Faster and cheaper – update your information online and
save on postage and administrative time
You can arrange a bulky waste collection
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View and print your council tax online
Log into My eAccount and
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than posting your council
tax bills we can then email
you a reminder to view
it online. This allows the
council to spend money on
other important services,
rather than on printing and
postage.
Did you know? It takes 7-10 days to provide you
with a copy of your council tax bill, but signing up for
eBilling means you can print it whenever you need it!
6

www.islington.gov.uk
Pat Cash with local youngsters at Rosemary Gardens
Pat Cash opens
tennis wall for
local kids
Former Wimbledon champion, Pat Cash,
officially opened the newly developed
tennis wall in Rosemary Gardens last
month before giving local youngsters
the chance to learn some of his skills.
The specially designed wall is an
impressive addition to the site’s facilities
which already include two tennis courts,
a football pitch, and changing rooms,
basketball hoops, outdoor table-tennis
tables and a children’s play area.
Tennis star, Pat Cash, said:
“It is great to be part of a scheme
that will help youngsters take their first
steps to becoming the tennis stars of
the future.”
Cllr Paul Smith, Islington Council’s
executive member for environment, said:
“We’re on the side of residents and
committed to providing places in our
parks where residents can play sport
and keep healthy.
“This excellent new tennis wall will
help inspire more local people to get
involved with the game.”
Since opening in 2007 Rosemary
Gardens has received almost £1
million in funding from the council,
Barclay Spaces for Sports and Football
Foundation.
Cllrs Richard Watts and James Murray meet local apprentices
Apprentices build their careers on estates
Two new Islington Council apprentices
have been recruited to help maintain the
borough's housing estates.
As part of its commitment to create
employment opportunities for young
people, the apprenticeships - one
in brickwork and one in carpentry
- will last for two years and include
gaining hands-on experience working
alongside qualified council staff,
and one day a week studying for a
construction diploma.
Since the council launched its
apprenticeship scheme in 2009, 73
residents have taken part. By the
end of March 2013, an additional 34
apprentices will have been recruited.
Islington Council's executive member
for children and families, Cllr Richard
Watts, said:
“We're on the side of local young
people and are working hard to help
them find employment and training
opportunities. Like all our council
apprentices, these new apprentices
are gaining great experience
alongside their qualifications, which
will be invaluable in helping them
find employment at the end of their
apprenticeships.”
Nominate
your local
hero
Islington Council is once again calling
for nominations for the Mayor's
Civic Awards.
The awards, now in their 12th
year, see public spirited citizens
recognised for their contribution to
the local community. Under-18s
are honoured with The Ben Kinsella
Award – which recognises a young
person whose positive actions have
made their mark in Islington.
Nominations close on 25 January
2013 and can be made online at
www.islington.gov.uk/mayor
or by picking up a nomination
form from your local library.
For more information,
contact The Mayor's Office at
themayor@islington.gov.uk
or call 020 7527 3113.
7

Safer Islington
Police briefing
Islington’s borough commander,
Gerry Campbell and the Metropolitan
Police would like to ensure the safety
of residents and visitors over the
festive season. Gerry provides some tips on
how to prevent crime this Christmas…
Keeping safe
on the roads
When driving in icy or hazardous conditions please note the following
tips from the council's road safety team:
Slow down, steer gently and avoid harsh turns, braking or
acceleration
Keep a safe driving distance between you and other vehicles
Look well ahead to anticipate problems
When pulling away, use 2nd gear if possible to avoid wheel spin
When braking, get into a low gear earlier than normal
Reduce your speed well before bends and corners by easing off
the accelerator
Reduce your speed if you encounter black ice
Check your batteries at the start of winter and ensure your tires
have been checked for the correct pressure and tread depth
Check your wiper blades are in good condition.
Nuisance neighbour behind bars
A man who breached his antisocial
behaviour injunction on an
Islington estate has been jailed
for 16 weeks and could lose his
council home.
The 40 year old man from
Blair Close, N1, breached an
anti-social behaviour injunction
in June 2012, by playing loud
music, making obscene gestures
and verbally abusing neighbours.
In September 2012 another
order and an injunction were
agreed, which included telling
him he must not use - or
threaten to use - violence
towards any of his neighbours.
But he breached this order
in November and was
arrested by Mildmay’s Safer
Neighbourhoods Team. The
Clerkenwell and Shoreditch
County Court sentenced him
to 16 weeks imprisonment for
harassment of neighbours.
Cllr Paul Convery, the
council’s executive member for
community safety, said:
“We’re on the side of
residents, who want less crime
and anti-social behaviour in
Islington. This man’s behaviour
badly affected residents’ right
to enjoy their lives and homes.
But our decisive action has put
him behind bars and he could
yet lose his home.
“Our message on anti-social
behaviour is clear: play by the
rules or face the consequences.”
“London attracts tourists from around the world
who come to see the sights and do their Christmas
shopping in its bustling city centres. Unfortunately,
the capital’s bright lights are also a magnet for
unwelcome, opportunistic criminals keen to take
advantage of the busy winter period in rather
different ways.
“We ask the public to be extra vigilant and to
take note of the following crime prevention tips:
When out and about…
Keep your purse inside a zipped-up handbag at
all times
Be extra cautious when using cash points - make
sure you cover your pin number. Do not leave
until your cash has been put away
Be aware of your surroundings when using your
mobile phone. Try not to use it at locations such
as coming out of the underground or on public
transport – this is where it is most likely to be
snatched
Protecting your goods…
Record the serial numbers of gifts such as
laptops, smart phones and electrical goods.
Property mark your valuables - the MPS
regularly carry out Smartwater schemes in the
Islington area
At home…
Do not open your door to unexpected callers -
burglars will often take advantage of seasonal
traffic and pose as Christmas carollers or charity
workers
If you are away for Christmas, ask a neighbour
to keep an eye on your property
Late at night…
Drink responsibly and never leave your drink
unattended
Stick to well-lit roads and don’t take short cuts.
Try not to go home alone.
Plan, in advance, how you will get home from
a night out. Do not accept lifts from illegal taxi
touts.
“Winter is a time for festivities and celebrations -
keep yourself and your belongings safe.”
8

www.islington.gov.uk
On the scene –
tackling alcohol-related harm
Teams from around the council are working with partners including the police, NHS, licensees and
substance misuse services in the borough to tackle the harm caused by alcohol in Islington.
Here, four people involved in the campaign talk to IslingtonLife about their work…
Fiona Exley, Trading
Standards Team
Leader, Islington
Council
“I’m helping prevent
retailers selling alcohol
to children and work with partners to
educate young people.
“Following a successful pilot in
Caledonian and Holloway wards last year
a new Community Alcohol Partnership
(CAP) to tackle underage drinking
has been launched in response to
residents’ concerns in Bunhill. My team
recently went out with a 15 year-old
volunteer ‘test purchaser’ and found
that 15 of the 25 off-licences in the
neighbourhood sold alcohol to her.
“We will now be training these
retailers to challenge underage sales
and proxy sales, where someone over
18 buys alcohol for someone under
that age. The CAP will also tackle the
demand for alcohol by working with the
local police, youth services, schools and
colleges to educate young people about
responsible drinking.”
Fiona’s top tip: “If a young
person asks you to buy
alcohol on their behalf, don’t
do it. It’s illegal and you could
get an £80 on the spot fine
or be prosecuted in court.”
Dr Paramabandhu
Groves, Consultant
Psychiatrist,
Islington Specialist
Alcohol Treatment
Service (ISATS),
Camden and
Islington NHS Foundation Trust
“My team help Islington residents who
are problem drinkers and have complex
needs.
“Every day my team see the
devastating effects that excessive
drinking can have on the wellbeing of
Islington residents, their loved ones and
communities. We work with over 300
service users from all walks of life in
Islington each year – problem drinking is
an issue across our entire community.
“My team assess needs and agree
treatment with patients who, in addition
to problem drinking, have other needs
which drinking might affect - including
depression, anxiety or other mental health
issues, or family and childcare problems.
Treatment might involve psychiatric or
psychological intervention, in- or outpatient
detox, rehab, regular meetings
with key workers, medication and
attending our relapse prevention group.
“About 2 out of every 3 people who
attend ISATS stop drinking or reduce
their consumption to a low-risk level by
the time they leave our service.”
Dr Groves’ top tip: “If you
are concerned about your own
or someone else’s drinking,
support is available. Visit your
doctor or contact the Islington
Community Alcohol Service,
on 020 7833 9899.”
Robin Clark,
Licensing Sergeant,
Islington police
“I work with Islington’s
licensed premises
to resolve alcoholrelated
crime and disorder issues which
are causing the public problems.
“My team investigate issues linked to
licensed premises in Islington including
noise, fighting, underage or out-ofhours
sales, rowdy behaviour and
serious violence. The police and council
then work together with Islington’s
pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants, offlicenses,
shops and so on to resolve
these problems. For example if there
are problems around noise, rowdy
behaviour or violence at closing time,
we might look to stop this by looking at
procedures for how a bar or club closes.
If there is a history of violent assault, we
might recommend only plastic glasses
are used for safety reasons.
“My team and the council’s licensing
team have an excellent relationship with
most licensed premises in Islington – it is
in everyone’s interest that premises are
safe, operate legally, and don’t create
problems locally. Very occasionally a
licensee doesn’t co-operate and there
are unresolved issues, in which case the
council’s Licensing Committee review
the licence, which might be taken away
or extra conditions added.”
Robin’s top tip: “If a licensed
premise in Islington is causing
you problems, let us know. Call
020 7527 3031, or email
licensing@islington.gov.uk”
9

Safer Islington
Travel
safely this
Christmas
The council, police and TfL are working
together to make it safer for you to get
home. Un-booked minicabs picked up
in the street or outside pubs and clubs
are illegal, unregulated and uninsured,
and can also provide cover for serious
crimes including sexual violence and
robbery.
If you’re using a minicab over
Christmas, stay safe by:
Booking it – you can text CAB to
60835 to get two licensed local
minicab and one local black cab (taxi)
numbers sent directly to your phone
(texts are 35p each plus standard
message rate)
Playing it straight
There are good reasons to steer clear of
dodgy electrical goods this Christmas.
GHD hair straighteners were among
the most counterfeited products
advertised online last Christmas. Some
of the fakes were not safe, causing
serious burns and fires, and some even
melted.
Here are some tips from the
council’s trading standards
team on how to make sure that
any electrical goods you buy
are safe:
Buy from a reputable shop or online
retailer
Check the voltage – 230V, 50Hz
is the UK’s domestic voltage. Is the
product fitted with a UK plug or
charger?
Check the seller’s contact details –
make sure it’s a full address and not
just a PO Box number. Not all .co.uk
Checking it’s yours – make sure
the driver knows your name and
destination before you get in, and
check their photo ID
Sitting in the back – always sit in
the back seat and have your mobile
phone accessible in case there’s an
emergency.
Find more information about
minicab safety, plus a journey
planner, times of the first
and last tubes and night bus
maps at www.tfl.gov.uk
websites are based in the UK
Avoid second hand electrics – there’s
no guarantee, no warranty, and you
don’t know what condition it’s in
Use online review sites – see what
others have said about the company
you are buying from and the product
you are buying
Read the product guarantees, the
seller’s terms and conditions, returns
policy and privacy statement
Keep records of whatever you order.
For more information about
your consumer rights, call the
Citizens Advice consumer
helpline on 08454 04 05 06.
If you are concerned about the
goods an Islington business is offering,
contact 020 7527 3198, or email
trading.standards@islington.gov.uk
Safety
in the
kitchen this
Christmas
Did you know that around 60
per cent of accidental fires in
the home start in the kitchen?
Rhys Powell, London Fire
Brigade’s Borough Commander
for Islington, talks to
IslingtonLife about being safe
in the kitchen this Christmas…
“These may be simple tips but
this Christmas we’d like to remind
residents to:
never leave cooking unattended
turn off electrical appliances
when they are not being used
make sure your electrical items
and gas appliances are serviced
regularly.
“In addition, our local firefighters
can come to your home and give
you advice on how to prevent fires
and stay safe in your home.
“During the visit, firefighters will
not only offer advice on how to
prevent a fire, but if required they
will supply and fit smoke alarms.
We can even fit specialist smoke
alarms for the hard of hearing or
visually impaired and all of this is
free of charge.
“Our crews in Islington would
really like you to take advantage
of this service - we would much
rather come round and fit a smoke
alarm than come to your home
because of a fire.”
To book a free home fire
safety call us for free
on 0800 028 44 28,
or email us at
smokealarms@london-fire.gov.uk
Please quote the reference ISL 04.
10

www.islington.gov.uk
Worried
about
someone?
Vulnerable adults come from all walks of life. They may be
elderly or frail; they may have a physical or mental health
problem or they may have a learning disability.
However, they have one thing in common: they are more
at risk of abuse. Abuse can range from physical, emotional or
sexual, to financial abuse or neglect.
If you’re concerned about a neighbour or relative this
Christmas, contact the Access Service on 020 7527
2299, or at access.service@islington.gov.uk
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/safeguardingadults
Residents help resolve
neighbourhood ASB issues
Residents from all over the borough have volunteered to be
on our pioneering Neighbourhood Resolution Panels, which
tackle low level crime and anti-social behaviour in Islington.
The panels bring together people harmed by low-level
crime and anti-social behaviour with those responsible for
causing that harm. Our volunteer facilitators have been
trained to help the victims and perpetrators discuss what
happened and who was affected, and together to agree
what can be done to make things better.
Alison Blackburn from Islington Council said:
“Cases are referred to the panel by police officers, ASB
officers from housing associations and housing estates, and
licensing officers.
“The panels are bringing harmed people and wrongdoers
together to resolve their differences positively and move
on with their lives.”
Don’t be worried this winter
If you’re living with a chronic
health condition, Telecare could
be the answer to maintaining
your independence while
having access to support when
you need it.
Islington Telecare can fit simple
discreet equipment in your
home which connects you to
our local, experienced 24/7
response team. We can check
in with you regularly if you
want, or you can be in touch at
the push of a button when you
need us.
From just a few pounds per
week, our competitively priced
services can be tailored to your
individual needs.
We can talk you through the
options and give you an idea of
costs with no obligation.
Find out more from the
Telecare team at: Contact
Islington, 222 Upper Street,
London N1 1XR
telecare@islington.gov.uk
020 7527 5456 (between
9am-5pm Monday to Friday)
11

News Your home
www.islington.gov.uk/housing
Want to get a foot on the housing ladder in Islington?
Our part-buy, part-rent scheme could be for you.
We have a range of 1-bedroomed properties available
in the N1, EC1V, N5, N7 and N19 areas. If you
• live, work or have relatives in Islington
• have a joint household income up to £60,000 or
• earn up to £55,000 if you are buying on your own.
We would like to hear from you now!
Contact us
T 020 7527 7809
E housingdirectsharedownership@islington.org.uk
W www.islington.gov.uk/housing
Sample property
One double bedroom, first floor apartment
in N1.
Sample costs:
Full value: £250,000.00
Price to you (based on 40% share): £100,000.00
Estimated monthly mortgage: £565.36*
Monthly rent: £343.75
Monthly service charge: £72.00
Total estimated cost: £981.11
* You should obtain your own mortgage. The above is an example only
and is based on 25 years repayment period at 5.4%. We recommend
a minimum household income of £24,000.
Hanna, a recent happy customer of the shared ownership scheme said:
“The staff were very helpful, buying a property is very stressful but Islington Council were able to deal with all my queries
promptly. Within two months of accepting the offer I became a home owner. I would recommend the Shared Ownership
Scheme to anyone wanting to get on the property ladder as the properties on offer are definitely value for money.”
Plans for new
housing in N7
We have just launched a consultation
on our early ideas to redevelop the
derelict Bramber House site on the
Lower Hilldrop Estate. These include
providing:
much-needed new council
housing which will be offered first
to local people
better open space and more green
areas on the estate
a new library to replace the John
Barnes Library. We will provide a
temporary library while work is
underway.
Housing information
– website changes
Now that housing services have
reintegrated into the council, the
Homes for Islington website is no longer
available. Most of the content from it
has moved to the housing section of
the council’s website.
Visit www.islington.gov.uk/housing
Find out more
There are full details and a feedback form on our website at
www.islington.gov.uk/consultations and a display in the
John Barnes Library. The deadline for feedback is 20 December.
12

www.islington.gov.uk
Christmas at home
Local residents Sue and her son, Michael, of N1 are looking forward to Christmas in their new home
Local families are getting
the first chance to bid
for new council homes
in Islington, thanks to
the council's new Local
Lettings Policy.
The policy means that when new homes
are built on council estates, residents
on the estate get first priority to bid for
the new homes. This helps local families
living in overcrowded situations to move
into a bigger home, and gives other
households the chance of a new flat.
Islington is the first council to say
“no” to the Government and Mayor of
London’s plans to allow social rents to
rise to near-market levels. In Islington,
we are keeping our council homes
at social rent, so that families on low
wages can afford them.
New tenant, Sue Kara of N1, and her
son, Michael, are celebrating their first
Christmas in their new home. Sue said:
“I have been homeless and living in
temporary accommodation or with
friends since 2001 so the thing I have
now is security.
“The new flat is beautiful! It’s bigger,
brighter and much quieter than my
previous place. I’ve really enjoyed using
the balconies throughout the summer
and love my new modern kitchen!
“I feel much safer than where I was
before. Our new home has made a big
difference to me and my son. My old
place was dark and I feared being there.
My new home is lovely and light and my
son loves it too.”
Sue, who suffers from chronic fatigue
syndrome, cannot work and has cared
for her son for four years following
a serious road accident. She says the
move has given her a real boost:
“It’s like being reborn, a new beginning
and a new future for me and my son.
“I’m really looking forward to
Christmas. This is the first time in a
long time we are able to enjoy all the
festivities in a place that feels like home.”
Cllr James Murray, Islington Council's
executive member for housing, said:
“We are desperately short of
affordable family homes in Islington. We
believe the Government's plan to raise
rents is wrong for Islington - so we have
made our own plan to build hundreds
of new homes for social rent across the
borough.
“And with our Local Lettings Policy,
when we build new homes on Islington
estates, local people will get the first
chance to bid for them.”
By 2014, the council will deliver
1,800 new homes for affordable rent –
many of them will be family sized.
13

Young Islington
Pioneering approach
to children’s play
Children in Islington should have
more opportunities to run, jump,
swing and climb in unique play spaces
that challenge them, according to a
pioneering new Islington Council policy.
The policy, Managing Risk in Play
Provision, is the first of its type to be
adopted by a local authority in England.
Islington is already at the forefront of
designing adventurous and exciting
play opportunities across the borough’s
And the winners are…
Award winners (left to right):
Caric James, Julious Joseph and
Carl Osbourne
Islington's inspirational young people
and youth projects were celebrated
last month at the Youth Achievement
Awards, held as part of National Youth
Work Week (5-9 November).
The winners included:
Young Achiever of the Year Award -
parks and open spaces. The new policy
will now also apply to play areas on all
of Islington's housing estates and at
children's centres and leisure facilities.
More information about
the Managing Risk in Play
Provision policy can be found
at www.islington.gov.uk/
riskinplay
Dene Figueira De Sousa
Volunteering Award - Adam Rachid
Sporting Individual Award - Pro
Excellence Sports Academy - Caric
James and Julious Joseph
Youth Project of the Year Award
- Pro Excellence Sports Academy -
Caric James and Julious Joseph
Young Voice Award - Victoria
Azubuike
Young Arts Award - Shantelle
Peterking
Members of Islington's Youth
Council were involved in scoring the
nominations and Youth councillor
Jasmine Martins, said:
“Choosing the final award winners
was a difficult process. Every single
young person living in Islington should
be proud of the work they do to benefit
them and their peers.”
Apply now for Islington
primary schools
If your child was born between 1
September 2008 and 31 August
2009 they will be starting primary
school in September 2013. It is
important that you apply on time –
the deadline is 15 January 2013.
For everything you need
to know about Islington
schools and how to apply
see our primary school admissions
brochure, or go to
www.islington.gov.uk/admissions
Youth Job
Opportunities
Bulletin
The latest issue of the Youth Job
Opportunities Bulletin is available
on Islington’s youth website
www.izzy-info.com/jobs.
Packed full of vacancies, it brings
together apprenticeships and jobs in a
range of sectors for local young people.
The website also has lots of advice
for young people on applying for jobs
and attending interviews.
14

www.islington.gov.uk
Youth
Councillor,
Jasmine
Martins, writes
on behalf of
the Youth
Council.
Young producers for Occupy (left to right): Alistair (19), Brea (16), Emma (18),
Daniel (19), Christelle (17) and Jacob (16)
Young people create
arts spectacular
Young people from across Islington are
being given the chance to create and
perform in a new show called ‘Occupy’,
which will include cutting edge art,
electrifying music, eye-popping theatre
and inspiring spoken word.
Six young people (pictured) aged
16-19 have been recruited for
six months to work with local arts
organisations to develop skills across a
range of areas as well as work with other
young people aged 13-19 to develop
the Occupy programme.
They will be supported by local
organisation All Change, the creative
director for Occupy and are being paid
the London Living Wage. The project
Islington shortlisted for
children’s social care awards
Protecting vulnerable children is one
of the most important responsibilities
of any council. Islington takes
this responsibility very seriously
so it is pleasing to have this work
acknowledged.
In November the council was
shortlisted in four different categories
in the prestigious Social Worker of the
Year Awards 2012 - a registered charity
is supported by Arts Council England
and will give the young people a good
foundation for a career in the arts.
Renowned local arts organisations
Cubitt Education, Apples and Snakes,
Islington Community Theatre, the
Lovebuzz Project and the Random Dance
company are helping to shape the event.
Production and rehearsals for Occupy
start in January 2013, and the show will
open to the public over Easter at the end
of March.
Find out more at
www.platformislington.org.uk
which aims to improve the reputation
and understanding of the social work
profession.
At the time IslingtonLife went
to print the results were not
available but for updates
including the winners, visit
www.socialworkawards.com
f
“Since our last update, myself
and Y Cllrs Elliot and Victoria
have been looking at ways we
can encourage organisations
to invest in youth provision
in Islington. We met some
potential investors and
spoke to them about the
importance of youth services,
telling them our experiences.
We are also looking at how
we can get other young
people across the borough
involved in developing youth
provision.
“Y Cllrs Harry and Innocent
have been assessing the
coverage of young people
in the local papers to see
what positive stories are
published about young
people. They are also planning
inter-generational events
where young people and
older people could meet and
exchange stories.
“The Youth Council were
pleased to hear about the
council's new bursary that
gives teenagers up to £300
a year to help them start
further education. We were
worried about EMA being
abolished by the Government,
so this is a good scheme for
young people facing financial
hardship.
“Remember to follow us on
Facebook and Twitter to keep
updated with our work.”
Follow us on Twitter
@IslingtonYC
Follow us on Facebook
@IslingtonYC
15

Christmas in Islington
Seasonal opening hours
Over the festive period, a number of our services will be operating with different opening and closing times.
For the full details please look at our website at www.islington.gov.uk/bankholidays
Parking
Restrictions will be
as normal except
on 25 December, and 1 January
when only obstructions and
dangerously parked vehicles will be
enforced.
Contact Islington
Normal service hours from
now until 21 December and
after 2 January. Festive opening
times as follows:
24 December - 9am-5pm
25 December – closed
26 December – closed
27 December - 9am-5pm
28 December – 9am-5pm
29 December – closed
30 December – closed
31 December – 9am-5pm
1 January - closed
2 January – normal hours
resume, 8am-6pm
Contact Islington will remain
open for out of hours emergency
housing repairs over this period.
Call 020 7527 2000.
Registry office
The registry office will be
open as normal except
for 24, 27, 28 and 31
December when it will close at 3pm.
Parks
The gates on all of our
parks will not be locked on:
24 December - they
will remain open until 5pm 27
December
31 December - they will remain
open until 5pm on 2 January
Parks are open as normal at all
other times.
On 26 December, restrictions
apply in match day zone only for
Arsenal home match with minimal
enforcement elsewhere. There is also
a match at Emirates Stadium on 29
December when additional match day
restrictions apply.
Libraries
All libraries will be open
as usual except on
25, 26 and 30 December and 1
January when they will be closed.
On 24 December they will close at
1pm and 31 December they will
close at 5pm. Normal hours will
commence on 2 January.
Leisure centres
Leisure centres may
have different opening
hours during the Christmas and New
Year period. For details on your local
centre visit the Aquaterra website at
www.aquaterra.org or see posters
inside the centres.
Cemeteries
Cemeteries will be open as
usual over the Christmas
period except:
Trent Park –will be open at 10am
-4pm on 25 and 26 December,
and 1 January.
Hampstead – will be open at
10am-2pm on 25 December, and
10am-4pm on 26 December and
1 January.
Islington and St Pancras - will
be open 10am-2pm on 25
December, and 9am-4pm on
26 December and 1 January.
The cemeteries office will be open
as normal except on 25 and 26
December and 1 January when it
will be closed.
Christmas
tree collection
service
Recycling your Christmas tree is easy
with the council’s collection service:
Street properties - leave your tree
inside the edge of your property
along with your other recycling on
your normal collection day.
Estates - The council will collect
trees from estates on 2-13
January 2013. Ask your caretaker
whereabouts on the estate you
should leave it
Drop-off points in parks 5-13
January 2013 – King Square,
Barnard Park, Rosemary Gardens,
Elthorne Park. The Reuse and
Recycling Centre on Hornsey
Street accepts green waste and
Christmas trees all year round.
All decorations need to be
removed and only real Christmas
trees will be collected.
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/recycling
or call 020 7527 2000.
16

www.islington.gov.uk
Anti-social behaviour
and noise patrol service
The anti-social behaviour (ASB)
reporting line will operate as normal
over the Christmas/New Year period.
You can report ASB at any time on
020 7527 7272 or at
www.islington.gov.uk/reportasb
The ASB response team will operate
the following hours:
24 December - 12noon-8pm
25 December - no service
26 December - 4pm-midnight
27 December - 4pm-midnight
28 December - 5pm-4am
29 December - 5pm-4am
30 December - 4pm-midnight
31 December - 12noon-8pm
1 January 2013 - 4pm-midnight
The noise patrol service will
not operate on 24, 25 and 31
December. Usual patrol service will
apply at all other times.
In an emergency always dial 999.
Recycling and rubbish collections
Changes to
collection days
over Christmas:
Normal collection day Revised collection day
Tuesday 25 December Wednesday 26 December
Wednesday 26 December Thursday 27 December
Thursday 27 December Friday 28 December
Friday 28 December Saturday 29 December
Monday 31 December Monday 31 December
Tuesday 1 January Wednesday 2 January
Wednesday 2 January Thursday 3 January
Thursday 3 January Friday 4 January
Friday 4 January
Saturday 5 January
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/recycling
Winter gritting
During the winter months, particularly during bad weather, we’ll be gritting
roads and pavements to ensure that safe passage along our streets is not
endangered by snow or ice. On a number of main routes, we will pre-grit the
roads when bad weather is forecast.
To keep up-to-date on which roads have been gritted, follow us on
Twitter @islingtonBC
For more information, visit www.islington.gov.uk/gritting
Stuff your food
waste caddy this
Christmas
Remember to put any leftovers into
your kitchen caddy so that they can
be recycled.
The council accept all raw and
cooked foods, apart from large
bones. However, if you are using
bags to store your food waste make
sure you use compostable liners
(available free from your local library).
We cannot recycle any other bags,
including plastic bags or
black sacks; even if
they say they are
biodegradable.
For
information
on recycling your
food waste visit
www.islington.gov.
uk/recycling
Free
2012
all day parking
voucher valid on:
Thursday
27 December 2012
2012
Valid all zones
2012
Valid all day in resident
permit holder on-street
parking places only
2012
Free
2012
all day parking
voucher valid on:
Friday
28 December 2012
2012
Valid all zones
2012
Valid all day in resident
permit holder on-street
parking places only
2012
17

TIRED OF ENDLESS PIECES
OF JUNK MAIL PILING UP?
Say “NO” to
junk mail
Did you know that the average household in the UK receives around 650 pieces of junk mail
each year? In north London, this is equivalent to 18kg of rubbish per household.
5
easy ways to reduce junk mail
1 Place a ‘No Junk Mail’ sticker or sign on your front door.
2 with the Mailing Preference Service.
Register with Royal Mail’s Door to Door Opt Out.
3
4
Avoid joining new mailing lists by ticking opt-out boxes on forms.
5 Return unwanted mail - write ‘return to sender’ on the envelope first.
Find out more and claim your FREE Say “NO” to junk mail action pack
and No Junk Mail sticker at www.nlwa.gov.uk/nojunkmail
18

Money advice
Is Christmas
costing too much?
If you are worrying about how you are going to pay your rent or bills this Christmas
then please get help. Struggling with money is nothing to be ashamed about and
there is plenty of support in Islington.
We know that benefits changes are making money tight for many households so
it is important that you don’t overstretch yourself this Christmas. Don’t be tempted
by pay day loans or illegal loan sharks and don’t think you have to suffer alone.
Help is here
New advice line
For free and confidential advice,
call the Islington advice line on
020 7288 7676 or email admin@
rcjadvice.org.uk
This line has advice and support
provided by Islington's Citizens Advice
Bureau, Islington Law Centre, Islington
People's Rights and Disability Action in
Islington.
We can’t stop the benefits changes
being brought in by the Government,
but we have pledged over £3million
of funding and support in the next
three years to advice agencies to
provide debt and welfare support to
residents.
Multiple debt team
Our new multiple debt
team are contacting
everyone who has more than
one overdue debt owed to the
council. If you are in rent and
council tax arrears, or owe
other money to the council, we
will work with you to help you pay
your debts and manage your money.
The team will agree a payment
plan with you that allows you to
pay your arrears in one monthly (or
weekly) payment – rather than
several payments to different
departments.
✓ Worrying about rent
or mortgage
✓ Can’t afford electric
and gas top-ups
✓ Skipping meals to
pay for presents
✓ Using pay day loans
or loan sharks
Low cost instant loans
We have been working with our
local Credit Union to provide
residents with low cost instant loans
as an alternative to pay day loans.
Contact the Credit Union on
020 7561 1786 email
Info@credit-union.coop or
visit www.credit-union.coop
For details on the advice and
support in Islington go to
www.islington.gov.uk/
moneyadvice
For information on the
benefits changes, visit www.
islington.gov.uk/benefitschanges
Getting back into work
The best way to beat the benefit cuts is to get into work, or
self-employment. See page 20 for advice on how Islington
Working for Parents, our Adult Community Learning Courses
and the new Business Enterprise Club could help you.
19

Local life
Helping parents back into work
If you are an unemployed parent, with
a child aged under-five, you will have
seen that your benefits are changing and
it is likely that you will get less money.
The best way to increase your family’s
income is to get a job, and the Islington
Working for Parents team can help you
do just that.
Their friendly team will work with you
on a one-to-one basis and provide a
personal service that is tailored to your
needs. This might be helping you to find
and apply for the right jobs, prepare
for interviews, or even just giving you
that extra confidence boost. Through
contacts with other teams and agencies,
the team can also help you look at other
things such as the best way to improve
your income and the childcare options
available.
The team have helped hundreds
of parents back into work. Let them
help you.
A new year –
a new career?
Islington Council runs many free courses
to help residents to develop the skills and
confidence needed to get into work or into
further education.
To enrol on a course all you need to do is
come along to your local learning centre at
either Hargrave Park, 3Corners, Arsenal Red
Zone, or First Steps on 17 or 18 December.
Here you can also chat to our friendly staff
about the right course for you.
To get in touch call,
020 7527 4486, email
iwfp@islington.gov.uk
or visit your local Islington
children’s centre or Job Centre Plus.
case
study
Cherri Nadine is
a single parent
with a five year
old son. Cherri
contacted
Islington Working for Parents in
2011 and she told us how the
team helped her:
“At first we completed an
assessment and I attended a
confidence course. My adviser,
Lindsay, then helped me to get a
volunteering opportunity with the
council’s Energy Advice team.
“I worked towards a qualification
in Energy Awareness and she
supported me in applying for a job
as a Warm and Healthy Homes
Assessor with the council. I was
successful and started work on
1 October.”
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/acl
Adult learner, Kadir Ibrahim (pictured left), with council learning and careers
advisor, Estifanos Abebe
Advice and support for local entrepreneurs
The new Business Enterprise Club,
based at St Luke’s Community
Centre in EC1 offers practical help
for those who want to set up their
own business. The offer includes free
desk space, an accredited training
programme and mentoring provided
by volunteers from local businesses.
The club is open weekdays
9-5pm. Contact Shanice Lindsay
on 020 7549 8181 for more
information.
20

www.islington.gov.uk
Save energy and money
with the Green Deal
The Green Deal is a new government
scheme, due to start next year, that can
help you become more energy efficient,
save money on fuel bills, stay warmer
and improve your home.
Energy efficiency improvements,
such as insulation and better heating,
can be installed in your home at
no upfront cost. The cost of the
improvements is instead repaid by a
charge on your electricity bill.
The Green Deal is just one initiative
that can help you to save energy and
save money. Here are some other
initiatives the council provides:
The Energy Doctor – provides advice
on how best to use heating and
fitting measures to save energy, and
over the last 3 years has helped over
2,300 vulnerable households save at
least £100 each.
SHINE (Seasonal Health Interventions
Network) – this award-winning
service offered in partnership with
NHS Islington is a one-stop referral
service to help reduce winter deaths
and illness.
We’ve also supported vulnerable
residents by providing schemes to replace
old inefficient boilers and installing loft and
cavity wall insulation.
For further information on the
Green Deal and other energy saving
initiatives, contact Islington Energy
Advice Service on 0800 953 1221 or
at greenliving@islington.gov.uk
You can also visit
www.islington.gov.uk/energy
Keep warm,
save money!
As winter draws in, it is important to
try and make your home as energy
efficient and cosy as possible. There
are a number of things you can do to
keep warm including:
fitting radiator panels
lining your curtains, and
adding draught-proofing strips to
your windows and doors.
For ideas on saving energy and
money, come along to a workshop
- you will even learn how to make
thermal linings for your curtains
without using a sewing machine!
To book, call 0800 953 1221.
By turning your thermostat
down by just 1 degree, you
can save
£55 per year on
your heating bill.
Could you be a champion for older people?
We have an exciting opportunity for
a second Older People’s Champion in
Islington. The appointment will be until
the summer of 2014 and is suitable
for anyone with an understanding and
experience of the issues faced by older
people within the borough.
Although the position is unpaid, the
champion will be able to develop the role,
make a real difference to the community
and have a genuine input into the way
the council works for older people.
If you think you could be one of our
Older People’s Champions fill in the form
below, and tell us in about 50 words
the one thing that you would like to see
change in Islington to help older people.
Please return your completed form
by 7 January 2013 to Islington Town
Hall, any of our libraries, or by post to:
Older People’s Champion, Room G12,
Town Hall, Upper Street, N1 2UD.
Some of Islington’s older residents
enjoying Christmas lunch at the
Assembly Hall last year
Name:
Address: .
Phone number:
Email:
✁
The one thing I would like to see change in Islington to help older people is:
21

Healthy living
Make 2013 the year
you quit smoking
Drink sensibly for
a healthier future
It is estimated that alcohol
contributes to one in 20 deaths
in Islington and the borough has
the highest rate of alcohol-related
hospital admissions in London.
Additionally, alcohol consumption
is increasingly identified as a major
factor behind violent crime and
disorder in the borough with serious
consequences to victims.
Alcohol excess can damage lives
so it is important you get the balance
right.
It is recommended that women
should not regularly drink more than
2-3 units a day - that’s no more
than one standard 175ml glass of
wine (ABV 13%) – and men should
not regularly drink more than 3-4
units a day –that’s not much more
than one pint of strong lager, beer
or cider.
Beyond the recommended limits,
alcohol’s potential benefits on the
heart are outweighed by the risks of
getting illnesses, such as liver disease
or cancer. Regularly exceeding the
recommended guidelines can also
disrupt sleep, affect fertility, provoke
depression and intensify existing
mental health problems.
Reduce your
alcohol intake
If you tend to have a
drink at a certain time of day,
break the habit, do something
different at that time
Try and have at least two alcohol
free days a week
Pace yourself by sipping slowly
and enjoy the taste. And space
your drinks out - have a soft drink
in between
Have a smaller bottle of beer or a
single instead of a double
Swap your usual for a drink with
lower alcohol content.
For more information and
guidance on reducing your
alcohol consumption, visit
www.nhs.uk/Change4Life and
search under ‘alcohol’.
If you are concerned you’re
drinking too much and
would like some advice,
contact the Islington Community
Alcohol Service on 020 7833
9899 or drop in any morning
9.30am-1.30pm (Thursdays,
women only) to:
Islington Community Alcohol
Service, 332c Goswell Road,
EC1V 7LQ.
Outside opening hours call
the 24-hour helpline on
08000 66 55 25.
For many, giving up
smoking is right up
there on the New Year’s
resolution list. It can
be a difficult one to
cross off, however, and
research shows that you
are four times more likely to
stop smoking with your local stop smoking
service than by going ‘cold turkey’.
If you are want to give up cigarettes,
contact Smoke Free Islington on
0800 093 9030 or email
stopsmoking@islingtonpct.nhs.uk
Top tips to stop smoking:
Contact your local NHS Stop
Smoking Service
Identify your smoking triggers
and plan ahead
Take it one day at a time and reward
yourself every day that you don’t
smoke
Buddy up with a friend and support
each other
Use nicotine replacement products or
other stop smoking medicines to cope
with the withdrawal symptoms
Avoid situations where you might be
tempted to smoke again
Keep a note how much cash you are
saving as an incentive
Keep telling yourself you can do it!
Free health clubs
for half-term
MoreLife fit clubs will be in Islington
during February half-term.
11-17 year-olds can benefit from a
free week-long holiday programme with
fitness classes, healthy eating advice
and 12 months’ free access to MoreLife
Online. Call 0113 812 5233, email
team@more-life.co.uk or visit,
www.more-life.co.uk
22

www.islington.gov.uk
Winter-proof your workout
While animals hibernate and plants shed their leaves, people
naturally tend to slow down during the cold, wet winter
months. But hibernating isn’t going to burn any calories, so it’s
important to keep motivation levels high and take time away
from the comfort of the sofa!
To ensure that your fitness regime doesn’t freeze this
winter, James McNulty, Better Fitness Instructor at the
newly reopened Ironmonger Row Baths, has
the following tips:
1. Set specific goals
Having something concrete to aim for will keep you
focussed. If you haven’t exercised before start slow
and choose an exercise regime you know you’ll enjoy.
Aerobics, treadmill walking, weight training, badminton or
swimming are all great winter options.
2. Warm up thoroughly
During colder weather your body will take longer to warm
up, increasing the risk of injury. Ensure you walk for 10
minutes or stretch thoroughly before you get going.
Ironmonger Row Baths offers a huge range of
health and fitness activities, with something to
suit everyone. For more information, visit
www.better.org.uk
IRONMONGER
ROW BATHS IS
NOW OPEN
To celebrate the re-opening of
Ironmonger Row Baths, enjoy no
contract and no joining fees.
Now that’s better...
Join online at
www.better.org.uk/ironmongerrow
NO CONTRACT &
NO JOINING FEE.
HURRY! LIMITED OFFER.
3. Get straight to it
Don’t go home after work, which will give you every excuse
to settle on the sofa. Instead, go straight to the gym while
you’re still feeling motivated and ready for action.
Scan this QR code with your mobile reader.
Don’t have the app?
Search for “QR code reader” in your app store.
4. Phone a friend
Try and find a workout buddy who’ll go to the gym with you.
Research shows that if you train with a friend, you’ll be more
motivated and more likely to meet your fitness targets.
In partnership with
Terms and conditions: Offer is valid until 31 st January 2013 on Better Health & Fitness prepaid memberships, excluding single activity
memberships. We reserve the right to withdraw the offer without notice.
Registered address: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX. IPS Registered No. 27793R Inland Revenue Charity No.
XR43398
Your
daily dose
According to the UK’s Chief Medical Officer,
adults should aim for 2 and a half hours each
week of moderate intensity activity – this is
when you are slightly out of breath, you can
talk but not sing - or 75 minutes of vigorous
activity, or a combination of both.
It is also recommended that adults undertake
muscle strengthening exercises, such as lifting
light weights, twice a week and aim to reduce
the time spent sitting throughout the day.
Helping you get there
If you suffer from a health condition that
would benefit from exercise you may be
eligible for Islington’s Exercise on Referral
programme. Contact your GP or health
professional for more information, or visit
www.onedeepbreath.co.uk/eor.html
If you are facing a recent diagnosis or
recovering from cancer, you may be eligible
for Islington’s Cancer Survivorship Exercise
programme. Contact Aquaterra Leisure for
more information 020 7689 9846/7
or visit, www.aquaterra.org/cancersurvivorship-programme
Be a fit
family
Learn how to eat
more healthily, get
active and meet local
families with MEND.
This is a fun, free
10 week programme
for children and
parents.
Contact Courtney
Deutrom on
020 7686 0802
for information.
23

People and places
Bright Sparks moves into furniture
Islington's small electrical items project
'Bright Sparks' is expanding into
furniture, white goods and clothes!
Bright Sparks is also getting a new
shop thanks to Islington Council's
housing department and their
contractor Kier, who are working
together to supply the repair and reuse
scheme with unwanted items, left by
tenants moving out of council-owned
properties. Previously these items
would have been sent to landfill so this
saves the council money, helps the
planet - and a local charity who
distributes the repaired items to
families in need.
The repairs are done at a workshop
based in disused garages on one of our
estates where local volunteers can learn
useful new skills such as, basic fault
finding, electrical rewiring, PC repair and
software installation. They can also work
in the ‘Bright Sparks’ shop. Three of the
scheme's volunteers have since got paid
jobs elsewhere this year.
It was an emotional moment when
Howard Garrick phoned his mum to
tell her he was Islington’s Volunteer
of the Year.
Howard first had contact with the
Pillion Trust when he was homeless
and sleeping on the streets of Islington.
At that time he didn't have contact
with his mother but the Pillion Trust
provided him with the help and support
he needed to turn his life around. He
enrolled on college courses and started
volunteering in a drop-in centre.
Howard has since started Pillion Rocks,
where people who have been homeless
play gigs at community events. He also
set up Splash Pillion, which provides a
painting and decorating service to people
Bright Sparks volunteer, Mohammed Issufo
Volunteer Mohammed Issufo said:
“I've always been interested in IT
and a friend told me about Bright
Sparks. I went to the office and
asked if I could be involved with the
computer and networking repairs. I've
been volunteering two days a week
and have learnt a lot. We deal with
all sorts of computers and servers,
so it's really useful and you learn from
other people.”
Islington’s volunteer of the year
who are being re-housed.
Howard was nominated for the
Volunteer of the Year Award due to his
contribution in helping to set up shelters
for homeless people.
Howard really loves the work he does
as a volunteer and said:
“I want to show people they can do
things differently and belong.
“Volunteering has provided me with
some space to be myself and helped me
to create change in the world.”
The Mayor of Islington presented
Howard with the Jury’s Inn Volunteer
of the Year Award at a ceremony
arranged by Voluntary Action Islington
in November - other people and
organisations in the borough were also
recognised for their contributions.
If you are interested in
volunteering, visit
www.vai.org.uk/volunteering
or contact Voluntary Action
Islington on 020 7832 5800, or
at volunteer@vai.org.uk
To get involved or
donate items, email
shop@brightsparksonline.com
or drop into:
Bright Sparks Electrical
225 Seven Sisters Road, N4 2DA
Bright Sparks Reuse Furniture
153 Fortess Road, NW5 1AD
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/brightsparks
Self Portrait by
Christine Entwisle
Christine Entwisle is one of the
artists working with residents and
community groups in Finsbury and
Archway as part of the 'A Million
Minutes' arts project.
Christine is a performer, writer
and film maker who has been
working with Mind on Archway
Road, experimenting with Super
8mm film to share ideas about
recurring images and thoughts.
For more information,
including the launch
of a new exhibition
programme in January, see
www.amillionminutes.org
24

www.islington.gov.uk
TV’s Carrie and David Grant say
adoption changed their lives
Islington Council, in partnership
with four neighbouring boroughs
– known as the North London
Adoption Consortium – hosted
their annual adoption information
event last month at the Islington
IslingtonLife Assembly Hall. Spring 2012
Over 100 people attended the
event where honest, emotional
and heart-warming stories about
adoption were told by parents
Carrie and David Grant who have already adopted –
at Islington’s adoption
including celebrity vocal coaches
event last month
Carrie and David Grant.
Carrie and David spoke about their motivation to adopt
their child and how it changed their lives too. Carrie said:
“People say how lucky our child is to have us adopt him,
but I think we are the lucky ones.”
Graham, a recent adoptive parent said:
“It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to us – I am so
excited about Christmas! It’s amazing.”
Information on adoption in Islington is always
available. Contact the adoption team on
0800 073 3344, or visit
www.islington.gov.uk/adoption
Join the library for a chance to win!
Join your local library before
World Book Day on Thursday
7 March and enter the draw
to win Aquaterra monthly
leisure passes, book tokens,
shopping vouchers, or a tour
of Emirates stadium! The
first 500 people to join will
also receive an Aquaterra
day pass (offer available to
those aged 16 years+).
Join today – it’s free! Visit
www.islington.gov.uk/
jointhelibrary or pop-in
to your local library.
More reasons to
join the library
Besides the chance to win
great prizes there are lots
of great things to explore
and enjoy at our libraries
including:
The latest film and music
releases
The latest bestselling
books and audio books
24/7 online resource and
information
Access to a national book
reservation service
Free computer and
internet use
Great activities and
events including Baby
Bounce, Under Five’s
sessions, toy libraries and
Homework Clubs.
Coming soon… free e-books to download and read!
Bunhill Ward
– in focus
Bunhill Ward covers City Road
down to the fringes of the
City of London in the south of
the borough. Approximately
12,150 live in Bunhill Ward
which accounts for 6% of
Islington’s population.
Did you know?
■ ■ Moorfields Eye Hospital, on
City Road EC1V, was the
first of its kind in England
and was originally called
'The London Dispensary
for Curing Diseases of the
Eye and Ear'.
■ ■ John Milton lived in
Artillery Walk (later 125
Bunhill Road) in 1663,
and he finished the poem,
'Paradise Regained', from
this address.
■ ■ The name Bunhill is
derived from ‘bone hill’
which is thought to be
attributed to the fact that
in 1549 wagonloads of
bones from the charnel
house at St Paul's were
deposited on Bunhill Row
Schools & children’s
centres
■ ■ Moreland and King Square
Children’s Centre, EC1V
8BB
■ ■ St Luke’s CE Primary
School Nursery, EC1V 3SJ
■ ■ St Peter and St Paul
Primary School Nursery,
Goswell Road, EC1V 0EU
Bunhill Ward councillors
Troy Gallagher
Labour
Claudia Webbe
Labour
■ ■ Moreland Primary School
Nursery, EC1V 8BB
■ ■ Central Foundation Boys’
School, EC2A 4AP
■ ■ Richard Cloudesley Special
School, EC1Y 0TJ
■ ■ City and Islington College
(CANDI), EC1V 7LA
Community centres
■ ■ Moreland Community
House, EC1V 8BB
■ ■ St Luke’s Community
Centre, EC1V 8AJ
■ ■ Rahere House Community
Centre, EC1V 8DE
The arts
■■London Symphony
Orchestra
■■Arts Catalyst
■■Spectrum music project
Parks and open spaces
■ ■ Compton Park
■ ■ Finsbury Square
■ ■ Fortune Street Park
■ ■ King Square
■ ■ Owens Field
■ ■ Quaker Gardens
■ ■ Radnor Street Gardens
■ ■ St Luke’s Church and
Gardens
Robert Khan
Labour
25

Noticeboard
Nappuccino
dates
Come along for a coffee and
find out about the advantages
of using real cloth nappies and
how to apply for a real nappy voucher.
The next nappuccino session will be held at the
I-Recycle Centre, 1 Cottage Road, N7 8TP, opposite
Caledonian Road tube station.
Upcoming sessions will start at 10.30am on the
following dates:
8 January 2013
5 February 2013
5 March 2013
To book a place please call 020 7527 5157, or email
jean.hughes@islington.gov.uk
For real nappy sales and more comprehensive talks
about the different types of nappies and washing
tips, visit Real Nappies for London - Events at
www.realnappiesforlondon.org.uk
Contact Islington
Islington’s customer service centre is located on
the ground floor of 222 Upper Street, N1.
Pop in to speak to one of the team or
call 8am-6pm Monday to Friday
(8.30am-6pm Wednesdays).
020 7527 2000
contact@islington.gov.uk
Stay informed and updated and be the
first to hear about the latest news –
follow us on Twitter @IslingtonLife
Send your letters and comments
on the magazine to:
IslingtonLife
Room G16
Town Hall, Upper Street, N1 2UD
Islingtonlife@islington.gov.uk
020 7527 3416
Are you in
the draw to
win £3,000?
Start the year with a cash
boost! Sign up to pay your
Council Tax by direct debit
before Friday 25 January and be in with a chance of
winning £3,000 in our January prize draw!
Direct debit is the quickest, easiest way to pay your
council tax – sign up at www.islington.gov.uk/
directdebit or by calling 020 7527 2633.
New
charge for
developers
Islington is one of the
smallest and yet most
densely developed and
populated authorities in the
country. In order to ensure that the future growth of
the borough can be accommodated sustainably, the
council is introducing new charge on developers called
the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
Further consultation will take place in the
New Year and once in place the charge raise
funding for infrastructure and community facilities such
as transport, parks, sports, libraries, schools and health
facilities. For further information,
visit www.islington.gov.uk/cil
Diary dates
Upcoming council meetings for the diary include.
13 December 2012 – Housing Executive
14 January 2013 – Executive
17 January 2013 – Planning Committee
24 January 2013 – Council
05 February 2013 – Housing Executive
and Planning Committee
07 February 2013 – Executive
For more information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/democracy
26

www.islington.gov.uk
Get on
your bike
The council are running free cycle
training courses during February
half-term. All you need to take part
is a bike and a helmet. Three courses
are available:
Learning To Ride (5-9 years old):
for children who've never cycled before
Bikeability Level 1 - Off Road Control Skills (7-12): for
children that can already cycle
Bikeability Level 2 - Introduction to Road Cycling (9-12): for
children who can cycle well
Training takes place at a number of locations including
Elthorne Park, Rosemary Gardens, Castlehaven Community
Association Centre and Waterside Youth and Play Project.
Cycle training is also available all year round for adults who
live, work or study in the borough. It is free and delivered as
one-to-one sessions.
Free hire
of Islington
Assembly Hall
If you’re a community
organisation or charity based
in Islington, check out
www.islington.gov.uk/assemblyhall in
January for details on how to apply to hire the
prestigious venue for a maximum of five hours
free of charge on a selected date.
Applications must show a commitment to
provide events and activities that meet certain
criteria.
For full details, visit the website or contact
us on 020 7527 8900 in the New Year.
For more information, visit www.islington.gov.uk/
cycletraining or to book contact David Shannon at
david.shannon@islington.gov.uk
A3
Would you like to help the council
improve housing services?
If yes, then a role on Islington’s Housing
Executive could be for you!
The council recently formed a Housing
Executive to make recommendations on
key housing decisions and be consulted
on strategic housing issues for the borough.
You are
the key to
a better
housing
service
The Housing Executive is looking for a housing
association tenant representative to provide an
objective view on landlord issues and to bring a housing
association resident’s perspective to the group.
Could this be you? To find out more:
020 7527 2903
resident.engagement@islington.gov.uk
You will be provided with support and training to help
fulfil the role.
For further information, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/housingexecutive
You are
the key to
a better
housing
service
You are
the key to
a better
housing
service
You are the key to a better housing service
Scale example:
55mm (A4 logo)
27

Arsenal is delighted to have a regular
spot in Islington Life which keeps
residents up to date with all the
Club’s latest community initiatives.
This regular feature also keeps local
residents informed of events and issues
surrounding Arsenal and Emirates
Stadium such as fixtures, road closures
and transport updates.
2012 also sees Arsenal celebrating
100 years in Islington, having moved to
north London from Woolwich in 1912.
Since the Club's inception, community
has been, and continues to be, at the
very heart of the Club.
In this edition we’re taking a
snapshot of a typical week in the busy
life of Arsenal in the Community. The
department focuses on the delivery of
projects sitting under the themes of
sport, education, health, employment
and training and social inclusion. Largely,
the work of Arsenal in the Community
aims to fulfil the potential and transform
the lives of young people.
Premier League 4 Sport at St
Aloysius College, Highbury Fields
Girls School, the Sobell Leisure
Centre, St Mary Magdalene
Academy, Mount Carmel School,
Highbury Grove School, Holloway
School, London Canonbury School
and William Tyndale School
Arsenal in the Community – Fact File
2,160 people per week are engaged
in the Islington area through Arsenal
in the Community projects
40 different individual projects are
delivered throughout the Islington
borough each week
55 different venues in the Borough
of Islington are used each week to
deliver Arsenal in the Community
projects
The Arsenal Kickz programme provides
a range of pathways for youngsters
Premier League 4 Sport aims to
promote and encourage young
people's participation in badminton,
judo, volleyball, netball, table tennis
and hockey. The Premier League
scheme offers the community more
opportunities to get involved in sport,
helping young people to stay healthy,
active and develop an interest in sports
other than football.
National Governing Bodies for each
of the sports work alongside Arsenal in
the Community to identify a community
hub Club where young people can
progress into matches, tournaments
and events regularly.
Arsenal Kickz Project at Rosemary
Gardens and Elthorne Park
Arsenal Kickz aims to regularly engage
young people through football and
other activities. Many young people
in Islington have a natural attraction
and affiliation towards Arsenal Football
Club which is used as an initial route for
engagement.
Once engaged the project attempts
to consistently connect with young
people and provide some familiarity and
Arsenal has contributed more than
£750,000 to upgrade six pitches
in the Islington borough since
2006
72 students have now completed
the Arsenal Employability Scheme
and all have gained casual
employment with Emirates
Stadium catering providers,
Delaware North Companies
stability. The project aims to create a
safe environment, provide supportive
structures, provide access to volunteer
opportunities and develop pathways to
education and training.
Positive Futures on Market Road,
Highbury Quadrant, Crouch Hall
Court, Aubert Court, Girdleston,
Finsbury, Kings Square, Andover,
McCall and Hollins and the Harvist
Estate
Arsenal Positive Futures began in
the Borough of Islington in 2004. It
partners with Islington Housing and
aims to engage young people in a
range of sporting and educational
activities. By providing a safe and
familiar environment where participants
feel comfortable, it is hoped that the
project becomes a consistent part of
young people’s lives. Tournaments and
matches are organised at the weekends.
Like many of Arsenal in the
Community’s initiatives the project goes
beyond delivering regular football sessions
on a number of local estates. Since
supporting young people is at the heart
of the scheme, a range of focused pieces
of work for individual groups have been
developed to address some challenging
issues (including sexual health, drug
misuse and the consequences of carrying
weapons) with young people in a relaxed
environment. It reaches out to the
young people on its programme who are
considered difficult to engage and also
offers them pathways to employment,
further education through the Arsenal
Sport and Learning programme and
The Arsenal Foundation Learning
Programme and it also provides access to
volunteering opportunities.

The Arsenal Double Club at
Clerkenwell, Hungerford, Hanover,
Blesssed Sacrament, Copenhagen,
Pakeman and Samuel Rhodes
Primary Schools and Islington Arts &
Media Secondary School
The Arsenal Double Club is an innovative
education and football programme
which improves the numeracy and
literacy skills of children in the Borough
and beyond. The scheme uses Arsenalthemed
resources to engage young
pupils to improve their Maths and
English. The session is followed up with
a football coaching session.
Double Club Homework Club
sessions also run at Highbury Quadrant,
Andover, Harvist, Girdlestone, and
New Orleans Estate in partnership with
Islington Housing. The aim is to provide
a space for local children to come along
and get help with their homework in a
supportive environment
Football for Elfreda Society for
Adults with learning difficulties at
Elthorne Park
The Elfreda Society is a leading local
charity based in Islington for adults
with learning difficulties. Every Monday
morning an Arsenal in the Community
coach leads a session to ensure there
are no barriers to enjoying and playing
football with Arsenal.
Mental health football session
at Elthorne Park for Islington
Foundation Trust
Funded by the Premier League and
Sport Relief, the project forms part
of a national campaign. It is delivered
in partnership with mental health
programme, Time to Change, together
with Camden and Islington Mental
Health Foundation Trust, which aims to
challenge attitudes and prejudices about
mental health.
Badminton is one of six sports
available on the Premier League
4 Sport programme
Soccer Schools at the Sobell Leisure
Centre and Rosemary Gardens
Arsenal in the Community runs regular
after school and holiday-time soccer
schools in the Borough giving young
people the opportunity to play the
‘Arsenal’ way with experienced coaches.
Arsenal in the Community also
coordinates alternate fortnightly
sessions for visually impaired and deaf
youngsters at the Sobell Leisure Centre,
making football accessible to anyone
who wishes to participate.
Arsenal Employability Programme
at the Learning Centre, Emirates
Stadium
The Arsenal Employability Programme
is the Club’s bespoke employment
and education scheme accredited by
EDEXCEL at level 2.
Over a period of 12 weeks groups
of young adults who are largely
not in education, employment or
training (NEETs) complete a range of
certificated units designed to help them
develop their own employability skills.
With the help of the UK’s leading
education company, Pearson, and
City and Islington College, all the
youngsters have the opportunity to
gain experience across various skill sets
including interview techniques and time
management while being able to apply
for real jobs. The training is delivered at
the Club’s Learning Centre at Emirates
Stadium and in community centres on
local estates.
Arsenal in the Community
coordinates a number of ongoing
education and training programmes
to give young people a chance to
transform their lives. Projects include
football and education sessions in
pupil referral units; Arsenal’s Sport and
Learning programme - a unique project
that offers a full-time alternative to
mainstream education for students in
Years 10 and 11 that have been, or at
risk of being excluded from mainstream
education and The Arsenal Foundation
Degree - a two year programme which
enables students to learn the key
elements of community sports coaching
with a particular focus on football.
The Arsenal BTEC National Certificate
in Sport Science in partnership with
St Aloysius College is also an option
available to young people aged between
16-18 years-old who are interested in
coaching young people in community
sports.
Matches and events at
Emirates Stadium
from 26th December 2012 –
23rd February 2013
Wednesday 26th December
Premier League
Arsenal v West Ham United
Kick-off: 3.00pm
Saturday 29th December
Premier League
Arsenal v Newcastle United
Kick-off: 5.30pm
Sunday 13th January 2013
Premier League
Arsenal v Manchester United
Kick-off 4.00pm
Wednesday 30th January 2013
Premier League
Arsenal v Liverpool
Kick-off 7.45pm
Saturday 2nd February 2013
Premier League
Arsenal v Stoke City
Kick-off 3.00pm
Saturday 23rd February 2013
Premier League
Arsenal v Aston Villa
Kick-off 3.00pm
At the time of going to print, the standard
TV selections had been made up to the end
of January 2013. Ordinarily, fixtures up to
this date will not change. However, as ever,
all fixtures remain subject to change and
circumstances may yet arise which result in
further fixture changes.
Subject to progression in UEFA Champions
League, the Capital One Cup and the FA Cup
draw, Arsenal could be drawn at home in the
months of January and February 2013.
All updates can be found on
www.arsenal.com

What’s on
COMMUNITy events
LGBT History Month 2013
LGBT History Month is a glittering celebration of diversity and equality that is
held in February each year.
Last year, Islington made the national media with our ground-breaking
exhibition of Islington library book covers defaced by gay writer Joe Orton. This
was just one of 38 events during the month and was our biggest yet!
We'd like to make it even bigger this year but we need your help!
Please let us know what you will be doing to mark LGBT History Month
– email equalities@islington.gov.uk or visit, www.islington.gov.uk/
lgbthistory for more information.
Sunday street markets
Visit Islington’s new street market
in Camden Passage every Sunday,
for food, clothes, crafts and lots
more. Whilst you’re in the area, stroll
to Chapel Market, which includes a
farmer’s market on Sundays between
10am-2pm.
When: every Sunday, 10am-4pm
Where: Camden Passage, N1
How much: free
For more information about Islington’s
street markets, visit
www.islington.gov.uk/markets
The Cally Market
Enjoy a variety of fresh produce and
original designs. Pop-down for a loaf
of bread, a cut of meat or organically
grown fruit and veg.
When: every Saturday, 9am-5pm
Where: Caledonian Road, between
Offord Road and Bridgeman Road
How much: free
Child seat safety
For peace of mind have your child’s car
seat tested at a free event in Holloway.
When: 18 February 2013,
10am-3pm
Where: Morrisons, 10 Hertslet
Road, N7 6PL
How much: free
Get ready to Dance Izzy!
Dance Izzy is back on 22 December from 6-10pm, offering young people aged
12-16 a safe place to party with the hottest names in house, garage, afrobeats
and R&B music. DJ's on the night will be Mike Anthony and Noah Francis.
Dance Izzy offers young people a real club atmosphere and is held at the Relentless
Garage on Highbury Corner. It's run by young people supported by the council's youth
workers and local police from the Safer Neighbourhoods Team help keep it safe on
the night.
Tickets sell out fast so get yours now - call Judith Samuel on 07 825 098 689.
f For updates, check out the Dance Izzy page on Facebook.
Holocaust Memorial Day
On Holocaust Memorial Day we will
commemorate the millions of lives
lost in the Holocaust and subsequent
genocides. The day is also an
opportunity to shine a spotlight on
on-going human rights abuse still taking
place around the world.
When: 28 January 2013, 10am-2pm
Where: Islington Assembly Hall, N1
How much: free
30

www.islington.gov.uk
CULTURE
MakeArt Exhibition
Islington Arts Factory’s annual exhibition
of art created by young people (aged
4-14) in after school and weekend art
classes are now on display.
When: now until 21 December
Where: Islington Arts Factory, 2
Parkhurst Road, N7 0SF
How much: free
Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty
Sleeping Beauty sees Bourne return to
the music of Tchaikovsky to complete
the trio of ballet masterworks that
started with Nutcracker and the
international smash hit, Swan Lake.
When: now until 26 January 2013
Where: Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery
Avenue, EC1R
How much: £12-£60
For more information and to book, visit
www.sadlerswells.com
The Dark Earth and the Light Sky
This play by Nick Dear delves into the life
of the enigmatic and complex character,
Edward Thomas, in an era of change and
destruction.
When: now until 12 January 2013
Where: Almeida Theatre Islington,
N1
How much: £8-£32
For more information and to book, visit
www.almeida.co.uk
The Alternative Comedy
Memorial Society
Experimental, joyful comedy hosted by
Thom Tuck and John-Luke Roberts with
a packed, exciting line-up of left-field
comics.
When: 18 December, 7.30pm
Where: The Pleasance Theatre,
North Road, N7 9EF
How much: £8
For more information and to book, visit
www.pleasance.co.uk/islington
Green living
Conservation Christmas Party
Join the nature conservation team in
a practical conservation session in one
of Islington’s three nature reserves
and then enjoy a Christmas party
afterwards.
When: 19 December, 10am-3pm
(conservation work), Christmas
party to follow
Where: Islington Ecology Centre,
Gillespie Park, N5 1PH
How much: free
For more information and details
on the location please call
020 7527 4374
Hatha Yoga
Get fit and healthy with the most popular
form of yoga that concentrates on
postures to build flexibility and strength.
When: every Thursday, 6.30-8pm
Where: Islington Ecology Centre,
Gillespie Park, N5 1PH
How much: £8/£7.50 concession
For more information text Sarah on
07812 785 237
Highbury Time Bank Café
Share your skills with the community,
enjoy a walk around the park and then
treat yourself to a lovely cake, tea or
soup at the café.
When: every Sunday, 11am-3.30pm.
Sessions will end after Christmas
and resume in April 2013
Where: Islington Ecology Centre,
Gillespie Park, N5 1PH
How much: free
For more information contact
highburytime@live.co.uk
assembly hall events
Highlights this winter include:
Wishbone Ash in concert
Following hot on the heels of last year’s
highly acclaimed tour, this show focuses
on material from the classic eras of the
band, featuring stage favourites mixed
with classic album tracks.
Where: Islington Assembly Hall,
Upper Street, N1 2UD
When: 13 December, 7pm
How much: £17.50
Roachford in concert
Ever since coming onto the scene in the
late-80s with unforgettable tracks like
‘Cuddly Toy’ and ‘Family Man’, Andrew
Roachford’s maverick take on music has
spread far and wide and now comes to
Islington with his ‘Addictive’ tour.
Where: Islington Assembly Hall,
Upper Street, N1 2UD
When: 14 December, 7pm
How much: £19.50
Nerina Pallot in concert
The Brit and Ivor Novello-nominated
singer takes a short break from writing
and recording her fifth album for people
to see her live in her 'Lonely Valentine
Club' tour. This is a great chance to see
a unique talent and one of the most
engaging live female artists in the UK.
Where: Islington Assembly Hall,
Upper Street, N1 2UD
When: 11 February 2013
How much: £19.50
Tickets to concerts are available from
the usual ticket agencies. The venue
does not have a box office but for
information about the venue, call
020 7527 8900.
31

Don’t miss out. Apply now for
Islington primary schools
Everything you want from a
school, right on your doorstep:
Warm and enthusiastic teachers
Fun and inspiring classes
Excellent facilities
Apply by 15 January 2013 for the best chance
of a reception place at your first choice school.
Visit www.islington.gov.uk/admissions
www.islington.gov.uk/admissions