Knowledge newsletter 70 by Knowle West

THE

For the residents of Filwood, and parts of

Knowle & Windmill Hill

www.knowlewest.co.uk

KNOWL DGE ISSUE 70 DECEMBER 2015 - FEBRUARY 2016

New site for Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre p.3 Environmental awards for area p.3 Royal visit to Youth Moves p.11 New Year - new start p.7 Healthy food programme for families

THANKS TO: the Newsletter Steering Group (Ann Smith, Ken Jones, Denise Britt), Neighbourhood Partnership (Andrew McLean) and Knowle West Media Centre (Sue Mackinnon - Editor and Community Journalism Tutor, Bart Blazejewski - Designer). All articles express the views of individual contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Neighbourhood Management, Steering Group or KWMC.

Missional group to move into Sisters of Charity house

New Year - New You. In our December to February edition there are plenty of ways to make changes in the New Year - from free courses and money advice on our Dates For Your Diary page to a healthy food programme for families (p7) and details about Knowle Slimming World (p6). You can also take up a fitness activity at The Park and Knowle West Health Park (pages 10 and 11) and there are lots of ways you can get involved in your community and have your say (pages 4 and 5). There’s so much happening in the area – don’t forget to tell us about it and send us your pictures. We’re also looking for local people to join us - to write or take photographs for the Knowledge Newsletter and website: www. knowlewest.co.uk You can get in touch with me at Knowle West Media Centre by email: sue@kwmc.org.uk or by calling 0117 903 0444. I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to work with the community in 2016.

Sue Mackinnon Editor

A very happy Christmas and New Year to all our readers. Next issue Copy deadline: Monday 25 January Newsletter delivered from: Monday 15 February

Groups fight to keep paths open

Following the recent departure of the Sisters of Charity from their house on Filwood Broadway – a local missional group is set to move in this year. Lee Abbey Small Missional Communities – which has been based in Lisburn Road, Knowle West, since 1992 - has successfully applied to Bristol City Council to change the house’s use from a convent. This will allow male members of the Christian community to live there. Community member Ed Palairet said: “This move will enable the younger community to expand in numbers, while continuing to resource the local churches and help out in local community activities…” To find out more about the Lee Abbey community or how to join visit www.leeabbey.org.uk/smc

Support group for families A support group for families whose children have been groomed by sex offenders online has been started in Knowle West. Mum Joanne Manning started the group with the support of Avon and Somerset Constabulary. She says after her daughter was groomed at the age of 13, the family had to go through a court case – and received no help afterwards. She explains: “We were devastated as a family and we had no-one to talk to at all…I want to make sure other families in the area who have gone through the same thing have someone to talk to who understands.” The Constabulary’s Neighbourhood Manager Inspector Nigel Colston says “(The family) now want to do something positive by highlighting the risks to parents and children alike and potentially setting up a local support group to help parents in Filwood who might be going through the same things…” To find out more contact Joanne at joannemanning7@yahoo.co.uk

Community groups fighting to stop the closure of two footpaths as part of new developments in the area have now been told access will remain. The Northern Slopes Initiative (NSI) and Marksbury Area Community Association wrote to Bristol City Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) expressing their concern. They feared the closure of both footpaths between Kingswear Road and Lynton and Timsbury Roads for six months would affect people going to “Bedminster, schools and other facilities.” The Council has now said “access will be maintained” during work by construction company Kier. A Council spokesperson said: “…Kier also plans to construct an alternative path to Torpoint Road in January, to ensure that the public do not have to take a long diversion during the closure. We are also in talks with HCA regarding temporarily reopening access through their old Marksbury Road College site…” Full story www.knowlewest.org.uk

Matthew Tree moves premises The Matthew Tree Project will be leaving the Inns Court Centre to move to Filwood Broadway by the end of the year. The charity provides a number of support services in the area including a Food Plus Centre and the Mede Sprint Community Transport. Chief Executive Mark Goodway said: “The Matthew Tree Project operates strategically from a number of locations across Bristol and South Gloucestershire and will remain completely committed to the people and the area of Filwood and Inns Court despite this change of operational location…” He said the organisation’s essential services “would continue to support the community” from its new base at 10 Filwood Broadway. www.the-matthew-tree-project.org

Police urge people to register belongings Police are urging people to register their personal belongings over the festive period with Immobilise – which helps identify the owners of recovered property. Visit www.immobilise.com

Visit www.knowlewest.co.uk for more news and info

News Environmental awards for area A group of Knowle West organisations have won a string of community gardening awards. Five local groups and a school entered the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) South West in Bloom Pennant Scheme as “Knowle West Community Spaces” - and achieved a Silver Gilt Award. They were: • • • • • •

Knowle West Health Association’s (KWHA) Let’s Grow Community Allotments Andy’s Haven at The Park Ilminster Avenue School The Northern Slopes Initiative (NSI) Community of Perrett’s Park Friends of Redcatch Park

Several of the groups also won individual awards in the RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood Scheme: Let’s Grow, Andy’s Haven, Bramble Farm, Friends of Redcatch Park and Community of Perrett’s Park gained “Outstanding” and the NSI “Thriving”. Let’s Grow - awarded the South West’s Best It’s Your Neighbourhood Award last year - was nominated for the 2015 RHS National Finals and achieved a National Certificate of Distinction. Steve Griffiths from Let’s Grow based at Springfield Allotments said: “I was asked by the South West in Bloom to get a group together as well as the individual awards to show that Knowle is a brilliant place…”

Melvin Square Post Office shut for modernisation A major extension to Melvin Square Post Office has caused an “ unplanned temporary closure” for several weeks. Instead of the intended three weeks, the facility closed at the end of October and is due to open on 17 December – meaning residents have had to use other branches such as Inns Court, Knowle Park or Broadwalk. Post Office Area Manager Alan Ridoutt said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this unplanned, temporary closure,

Steve scoops second award

Knowle West gardener Steve Griffiths has just scooped a Bristol Evening Post Gold Star in the Environmental category for his work at Springfield Allotments.It’s the second individual award for Steve this year – following his BBC Radio Bristol Food Hero Award in April. Steve (46) who is Head Gardener for Knowle West Health Association’s Let’s Grow Community Allotments says: “I just do what I love but it’s nice to get recognised.”

Awards for Filwood Green Business Park

Filwood Green Business Park has won the Eco Green Building Award as part of the Bristol Post Green Capital Awards 2015. The flagship site opened in May and has solar panels, green roofs and natural ventilation. Councillor Simon Cook, Assistant Mayor for Place including Economic Development said “…As an award winning, eco-friendly site dedicated to providing affordable work space for small local businesses, the facility is a beacon of progress in South Bristol.” This is the second award for the business park which also won the 2 Degrees Champions Awards for innovation in sustainable business. For more information vist www.filwoodgreen. co.uk

@DrRozHall: These are the unsung heroes of Knowle West | Bristol Post http://po.st/cNHLgi

which was beyond our control… Soon customers will have a great looking store and Post Office…” The improved building will be more than double in size and will open an extra 13.5 hours a week - with the end of lunchtime closure. There will also

be open plan tills and services will include banking, bill payment, travel money and benefits. Pensioner Graham Brace (67) said: “I’ve always used the post office to get my pension but go by bus to Broadwalk now. It was a little bit small before – it definitely needed to be a bit bigger…” www.knowlewest.co.uk

Knowle West Children’s Centre opens new site Knowle West Children’s Centre has recently opened its third setting at the Old Caretaker’s House in the Health Park. Deputy Head Matt Caldwell said following the success of the Centre at Inn’s Court, they were keen to build on this and work with families in Glyn Vale. He said: “The House will provide learning opportunities for two to four-yearolds and will also provide a range of family services and groups. “We are pleased to be so close to the Health Park so that we can work even more closely with the amazing team there…” There are currently ten children at the new site which runs morning and afternoon sessions from Monday to Thursday and can take up to 16 pupils in each. Mum of two-year-old Tia, Dionne Blackmore (27) said: “She enjoys dancing and making music and there’s a learning journal so we can see what they’ve done and add things they’ve done at home…” Team Leader Ellyn Oddie said: “I love the fact it’s a house – it’s like a home from home. It helps children feel at ease because it’s more intimate and cosy…” From January the House will also be hosting a breastfeeding group and baby massage sessions. For more information call Knowle West Children’s Centre on 0117 903 0214. Read more at www.knowlewest.co.uk

Your community www.knowlewest.co.uk

Filwood, Knowle and Windmill Hill Neighbourhood Partnership By Andrew McLean

What is the local Neighbourhood Partnership? The Neighbourhood partnership for Filwood, Knowle and Windmill Hill is a local decision-making group that delivers positive activities for the Partnership area. These activities are written into a local Neighbourhood Partnership plan agreed by local residents, Bristol City Council and other agencies such as the Police. The Neighbourhood Partnership also manages a small grants fund to support the work of local community groups and agencies delivering services across the Partnership area. For more information go to www.bristol. gov.uk/neighbourhoodpartnerships

How can I get involved? Any resident can come along and take part in the following meetings: • Neighbourhood Partnership meeting – Tuesday 12 January 2016, 6pm at Knowle West Media Centre. If you would like to join the Neighbourhood Partnership, contact Andrew on 0746 733 5714 or email andrew. mclean@bristol.gov.uk • Transport Sub Group - the first meeting of the sub group will take place in February 2016. We are still looking for volunteers and anyone interested in improving the roads, pavements and cycling routes in and around Knowle West, Knowle and Windmill Hill. Contact Andrew on 0746 733 5714 or andrew.mclean@bristol. gov.uk To find out more about some of the issues local people have raised about Transport and Highways please visit: www.trafficchoices.co.uk

venues around the ward. The next meeting is Wednesday 3 February 2016, 7pm at Filwood Community Centre, Barnstaple Road, BS4 1JP. This year we also met at Knowle West Health Park and Inns Court Centre. If people have any suggestions for community venues for next year’s meetings or have preferred times/days, please contact Lloyd Allen, email Lloyd.allen@ bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 922 4320/0782 531 5628. The Filwood Liveability Group meets at Filwood Community Centre and is chaired by local residents. The next meeting is Friday 29 January 2016, 10am -12. It is a place to come and talk about how to jointly deal with waste, fly tipping, parks, green spaces and housing issues in the area. For more details on these groups and the Knowle and Windmill Hill Neighbourhood Forums visit: www.bristol.gov.uk/ neighbourhoodpartnerships (click on our area page).

Pupils from Victoria Park Primary School litter picking on the Northern Slopes

Ward Boundary changes

The Local Government Boundary Commission carried out a review of Bristol’s current political ward boundaries. Bristol residents were consulted on the proposed changes to the wards across Bristol and the final recommendations will be carried out before the first whole council elections in 2016. The recommendations mean there will be changes to ward boundaries in Filwood (Knowle West), Knowle and Windmill Hill, as well as changes to neighbouring wards in Bedminster, Southville, Bishopsworth, Hartcliffe and Brislington West. For more information visit: www.lgbce.org.uk/ currentreviews/southwest/bristol

Farewell to Paul Owens

Paul Owens has been working in Knowle West as the Programme Manager for the regeneration of the local area. Paul successfully coordinated the building of the new Filwood Green Business Park and has been central to the ongoing work for the redevelopment of Filwood Broadway, the Torpoint housing development, the new Marksbury Road School, the new Inns Court play area… the list goes on! We wish Paul the very best in his new role with the Major Projects Team in Lockleaze.

By Community Reporter Rianna Newman Filwood now has its own official Tree Champion – who will be working with people in the area to protect local species and educate groups about their importance. Local resident Jim Smith (67) says: “Anyone can be a Tree Champion – no skills or training are needed, you just need to have an enthusiasm for trees and the environment. “I attend tree related events when it’s possible, as well as the Tree Forum – it’s always good to go and talk to like-minded people. I also go to the Neighbourhood Partnership meetings and update them on any progress I have made – this means it is kept on the agenda.” Jim is also hoping to promote rules and regulations surrounding Filwood’s trees. He has been encouraging the Neighbourhood Partnership to replace dead trees and will be supporting the planting of a number of these by January 2016. He feels it is important to pass his enthusiasm on to the next generation and has been working closely with Knowle West Children’s Centre. Deputy Head Matt Caldwell says “We know that children learn best when they are in an outside environment and Jim has advised us and helped us plant new trees to make our environment even better. “With his help we recently planted twenty fruit trees which the children will watch grow and be able to harvest their fruit…” For full story: www.knowlewest.org.uk Filwood Tree Champion Jim Smith. Picture by Community Photographer Grace Previte.

• Filwood Neighbourhood Forum and Filwood Liveability Do you want to be a part of your community and work with other residents as well as the Council and local Police to help tackle local issues? Do you want to find out what is going on in your area and across the city? Do you want the chance to meet and speak to your local councillors and officers? The Filwood Neighbourhood Forum meets four times a year in different

“Tree Champion” for Filwood

Opening of Filwood Green Business Park in May.

@knowlewestmedia: Great photo gallery of the old Merrywood Boys & Girls schools on the @BristolPost website: http://www.bristolpost. co.uk/pictures/Merrywood-School-Pictures-past/pictures-28130799-detail/pictures.html#1… #localhistory #knowlewest

Knowle West Together – Have Your Say at February event

By Rachel Clarke

Over the last few months, Knowle West Together has been finding out what you’d like to change in the area - and what good things you’d like to see more of. From dog fouling and fly tipping to illness and loneliness, we’ve heard about some big concerns through neighbourhood meetings, surveys, statistics and local organisations. We’ve also seen lots of interest in using green spaces more and holding regular community events like Knowle West Festival. But where should we focus our energy in 2016? And how would you like to be involved? Join us on Thursday 4 February 2016 to have your say and hear from local organisations. We’re planning an afternoon of activities on Filwood Broadway, from 3-6pm, which will be fun, interactive and suitable for the whole family. Look out for more details nearer the time... These conversations will help to shape what Knowle West Together does in the future to bring about the change you want. For more details contact Andrew McLean, Neighbourhood Partnership Coordinator, on 0746 733 5714 or email andrew.mclean@bristol.gov.uk

Food Heritage Project The Food Heritage Project has been collecting recipes from around the world from people living in the area. This recipe from Chisom Ekeh is a typical Nigerian dish. Okra Soup ingredients: 4lbs okra 2 tablespoons of palm oil 2 handfuls of raw prawns 1 mackerel fish cut into 2 – 3 pieces 1 blended red fresh chilli 1 cooking onion 2 litres of water Half a teaspoon of salt 1. Chop the okra into thin slices. 2. Blend the chilli with a little water. 3. Wash, gut and slice a whole mackerel into two or three pieces. If you prefer you can use another fish. 4. Chop the onion into small pieces.

Filwood Community Centre looking for Board Members Filwood Community Centre is looking for new people with experience to sit on its board. Current members are all local residents from in and around the Filwood ward and the Centre is a hub for community activities - including a hall that can be rented out for family parties or weddings, training rooms and a gym. Anyone interested should contact Denise Britt or June McNeill at Filwood Community Centre on 0117 914 9216.

@PGermon: Taking my hat off to Knowle West Fest celebrating diversity @BristolCommDev @BristolBMEVoice @BristolMultiFai http://youtu.be/vbdf_BxHn7Q ‬

5. Place the fish, prawns and chopped onion in 500ml of cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to the boil for 10 mins. 6. After 10 mins place the okra in the pan with an additional 1.35ltrs of cold water. Add two tablespoons of palm oil and the remaining amount of salt. 7. Cover the saucepan and cook with a high heat on the hob for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the soup thickens. 8. Enjoy the soup with ground rice, yam or potato! For more information about the project contact Andrew Mclean on 0746 733 5714 or email andrew.mclean@bristol.gov.uk

Share your story Friends of Marksbury Road Library residents group have been holding events to listen to residents’ stories about their neighbourhoods. These have included Christmas decoration workshops and a Polish-themed event, St Nicholas Day/Mikolajki. If you would like to know more, share your story or get involved in your community, contact Magda, Community Development Officer from Bristol City Council, on 0782 408 6829 or email magdalena. kowalik-malcolm@bristol.gov.uk

Local slimmers lose 1,500 stone in time for group’s third birthday

Local Stories Another boxing champion in the family Two former Knowle West boxing champions have now seen a third member of their family rise the ranks to compete at national level. Twins Brian and Michael Davis (68) grew up in Cossington Road and were two of five schoolboy champions from the same street. They discovered they had a talent for boxing in lessons at the former Connaught Senior School. Both brothers went on to win the English Championships and boxed for England, retiring when they were 22 and settling down to family life. Now Brian’s grandson Mickey Parsons (19) who trains at Broad Plain Police Amateur Boxing Club in Easton has just won his fight representing the Community Police Clubs of Great Britain and has the possibility of international colours. He says: “I asked to do boxing when I was about nine ...and that’s when I found out about all the stories - I thought if they could do it, anyone could ... It’s hard work, you have to train but it’s worth it...” Brian says: “You’ve got to prove yourself in life and if you’ve got a talent, use it... ” Being sporty is definitely in the family - as Michael’s son George, now 37 also used to play rugby for England. For full story: www.knowlewest.org.uk

Slimmers from a local group have lost a staggering 1,555 stone between them since it was launched three years ago. That’s the equivalent of nearly 10 tons or 116 average men that members of Knowle Slimming World have shed in time for the group’s third birthday. Consultant Kim James runs the group from Filwood Community Centre and says around 200 members now attend every week. She says: “I’m delighted that my members have lost weight so beautifully. It has made a big difference to their lives and to their whole family’s lives, and all of them are happier and healthier now. “Slimming has never been more important. Over 59% of people in Bristol are overweight with over 24% classed as obese and I just want to help even more people to make real changes for life..” Kim’s groups are held Mondays at Filwood Community Centre at 9.30 and 11.30am and 5.30 and 7.30pm. You can contact her on 0792 002 3170. post office was being developed. It is now nearer to where I live and I have a lot of new customers. People say I have brought a “ray of sunshine” to Jarman’s with all the flowers.” The Flower Stall at 64 Leinster Avenue is open Monday to Saturday from 9am-5.30pm. For more information call 0117 953 0788.

African food shop celebrates first year

A network to help people with diabetes manage their condition successfully is running three groups in South Bristol. The Bristol Diabetes Support Network (BDSN) holds sessions at Knowle West Health Park as well as in Hartcliffe and Withywood. BDSN Co-ordinator, Sandra Tweddell explains: “Our services are free to members. … Most meetings have an element of education – but we do have fun and partners, family and friends are welcome too… “The support groups aim to help people gain a greater understanding of how to manage their diabetes so they can live as normally as possible.” The next meeting at Knowle West Health Park in Downton Road is on 14 December from 6.30-8.30pm. For a full programme of meetings visit www.diabetesbristol.org.uk or contact Mike Deane: md@bristol diabetes.org.uk or 0749 484 9739.

really picked up over the year, it was a novelty when it first opened. Anybody who comes in and hasn’t been here before is very curious and interested in what we have and some will pick up one or two things just to try them. “We sell groundnuts, powdered milk and plantain as well as traditional sweet bread and sweet beans. I would say our biggest seller is the chicken and goat meat...” The couple now have customers from all over Bristol visiting the shop and also deliver to homes. Ola and Ola Foods, based at 31 Filwood Broadway is open Monday to Friday from 10am-6pm and Saturdays from 11am-6pm. For more information call 0782 890 2709. www.knowlewest.org.uk

If you’re struggling to find nutritious recipes for your children or want to know what’s in your food - a new programme in January could be the answer. Alive ‘N’ Kicking (ANK) is running a healthy food programme with fun activities for families on Wednesdays after school at The Park in Daventry Road. ANK Senior Programme Manager Katie Stevens said the aim was to look at healthy lifestyles for the whole family. She said: “It is a fun and educational programme for parents and children to find out more about how

much sugar is really in our food and drinks, tips on cooking on a budget, take part in food tasting, smoothie making and making fruit and vegetable kebabs. “Families also take part in the recipe challenge where they choose one of our Alive ‘N’ Kicking recipes to cook each week…” The free ten-week programme will start on Wednesday 20 January from 4-5.15pm for parents with children aged 5-11. If you are interested call Katie on 0117 942 2602/0798 542 7056 or email bristol@ank.uk.com. For more information visit www.ank.uk.com

Alive ‘N’ Kicking staff Senior Programme Manager Katie Stevens (left) and Nutrition Leader Emma Humphries (right) with families who have just received their certificates.

A shop selling Afro-Caribbean food and goods has just celebrated its first year of trading in Knowle West. Based on the site of the old butcher’s shop - Ola and Ola Foods on Filwood Broadway is run by residents Adeola Animashaun and husband Olawale, originally from Nigeria. They stock a huge range of exotic products - from palm oil and yams to okra and maize flour. Adeola explains: “Business has

Flower shop “brings sunshine” to Jarman’s

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@BristolSouthLab: Earlier @karinsmyth & @cdj368 helped launch the new fleet of @FirstBSA buses serving #KnowleWest

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Business is blooming for a florist and greengrocer who has uprooted her premises to Jarman’s shops after 17 years on Melvin Square. Chris Feltham who runs The Flower Stall on Leinster Avenue says the move has been good for trade. She says: “It was sad to leave Melvin Square after so long but the

Helping people manage diabetes

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Healthy food programme for families starting at The Park

@BristolPost: HRH The Duke Of Gloucester visits Youth Moves in Knowle West: http://ow.ly/V3Jmh

Who are we? We’ve been based here since 1996, supporting people to get the most out of digital technologies and the arts. Contact us: 0117 903 0444 or come to Leinster Avenue, BS4 1NL. Visit www.kwmc.org.uk and find knowlewestmedia on Facebook and Twitter.

The Factory gets into the Christmas spirit

From Knowle West to the House of Lords Knowle West was in the spotlight last month, as one of our digital projects was recognised at a national awards ceremony in the Houses of Parliament. My Knowle West (MyKW) is a free ‘local social network’ that provides a quick and easy way to share photos and updates about positive things happening in the area. You can access it at www.mykw.org.uk or download it as an app on an Android smartphone. It already has nearly 200 users. The app was shortlisted for the ‘Intelligent Communities’ award at the Next Gen Awards 2015, which are described as the ‘digital Oscars’. Members of the KWMC team attended a ceremony at the House of Lords on 5 November. Although My Knowle West missed out on the top award, we were delighted to make the shortlist and see the app, developed through European partnership project IES Cities, recognised for helping to bring people together and share positive activity, online and offline. Get started for free at www.mykw.org.uk If your organisation or group would like to learn how to use MyKW please contact Jen or Makala for training on 0117 903 0444.

Turn your ‘junk’ into gems this winter 1. The Assertive Contact & Engagement (ACE) service has launched its third outreach hub in South Bristol for mental health support at Filwood Community Centre. The welcome session in September included music and a barbecue. (Picture KWMC) 2. HRH the Duke of Gloucester visited Youth Moves at the Park in November to see the work of Levi Hodge, winner of the Ambition National Volunteer of the Year Award, and to meet the young people there. (See page 11). (Picture Youth Moves) 3. Oasis Academy Connaught and Oasis Academy New Oak have been raising money to build a school for children in Uganda. During a week of activities, pupils brought in loose change, arranging it in

the shape of an “O”. Oasis Academy Musoto will open in February 2016. (Picture Oasis Academy Connaught) 4. Older people attended an event organised by Knowle West Media Centre and Knowle West Health Park for Celebrating Age. It was to showcase groups and activities in the area for the over 55s. (Picture KWMC) 5. Greenfield E-ACT pupils welcomed Bristol illustrator Tim Sutcliffe into school in November to open their new £8,000 refurbished art studio. (Picture Greenfields E-ACT) 6. Over 400 people came to celebrate Bonfire Night at Inns Court Centre with a roaring fire, sparklers and family

activities. (Picture Mark Goodway, The Matthew Tree Project) 7. Pupils from KnowleDGE have been making soup and selling it to local businesses to raise funds for a book of family recipes. Cookery teacher Maxine Golbourne served a warming butternut squash soup to staff at Knowle West Media Centre. (Picture Alex Cousins) 8. A house in Ruthven Road, Knowle West, has been lit up with 1,700 Christmas lights to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. (Picture Julia Kemp, Alzheimer’s Society) 9. Ilminster Avenue E-ACT Academy has just been awarded £500 by Kelloggs for its breakfast club - which provides a healthy start for 65 children.(Picture KWMC)

@MalagoLearning: Thrilled to be working with @timjsutcliffe at @educationEACT Greenfield tomorrow. New studio in action for our youngest artists #knowlewest

Do you always find loads of junk when you get the Christmas tree out of the loft? Do you tend to get rid of old toys and games after the Big Day to make room for new ones? Don’t chuck them: play with them! Over the last few months we’ve been collaborating with artists Ludic Rooms and touring the streets of Knowle West with a toy trike, collecting unwanted toys and games. With funding from the Bristol 2015 Neighbourhood Arts Programme for Green Capital year, we ran a number of ‘toy hacks’ where children and families worked with artists and technologists to make new toys and games from the donated items. A broken garage for toy cars

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Over the last few weeks our digital manufacturing space has turned into a Santa’s workshop…Working with artist Russ Henry, the team at KWMC: The Factory has produced 100 wooden elves, which will be popping up all over Bedminster during the festive season. Children from St Peter’s Primary School have decorated 60 elves through our new schools programme Maker Lab in a Box, where they had the chance to learn about the different stages of design and digital manufacturing. The remaining 40 elves were decorated by Russ Henry – and all 100 have been hidden around Bedminster by the Bedminster Town Team for you to find in the weeks before Christmas. Keep an eye out! It’s been the end of a busy year for The Factory. We moved our making activity into Filwood Green Business Park in May and in October The Factory was recognised for its contribution to training and manufacturing in Bristol. At a ceremony at the Lord Mayor’s Mansion House, the Guild of Guardians presented us with the prestigious Alfred Telling Award, which provides a bursary of £1,500. If you’re interested in making, training or volunteering at The Factory please contact Justin: Justin.ricks@kwmc.org.uk or 0117 903 0444. For details about our work in schools contact Penny: penny@kwmc.org.uk

Children from St Peter’s Primary painting their elves.

became a wildlife haven and a solitary bike wheel and some wooden beams came together to form a balance board. Working with Ludic Rooms we’ve produced a series of short films that offer simple and affordable ideas for recycling old toys. Visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ knowlewestmedia to watch the films and find more playful ideas at http://forgotten.toys/

Events A Room with a View Daily, until January 2016 (free) This large-scale exhibition is made up of two new works. Photographer Nicholas White has produced a series of new photographs of Knowle West, from panoramic views to portraits inside local homes. ‘The Artist Hotel’ is a collaboration between KWMC, local residents,

artists and students from the University of the West of England, exploring how we can work together to make new spaces within our community. Computers for Beginners’ Tuesdays, 10 – 11.30am (free for six weeks, then £3 per week) A friendly and informal environment for adults to learn more about digital technology, whether you’d like to improve your computer skills, get to grips with a smartphone or tablet, or take better photographs. Contact Martin on 0117 903 0444. XLR Music Sessions Tuesdays, 6-8pm Free sessions for young people interested in music, from singing and rapping to playing an instrument or making beats. A great opportunity to find out more about recording, performance and how to build your knowledge of the music industry. Contact James for details: james@kwmc.org.uk or 0117 903 0444.

KnowleWest Health Park www.knowlewest.co.uk

After School Activity Club

Smarts Sports Coaching is a Bristol based sports coaching company established in 2008 and offers after-school sports activities here at Knowle West Health Park. We currently offer Multisports Courses for children aged 4-16.

Importantly our courses and clubs represent good value to busy parents and we remain focused on making Smart Sports Coaching available to all. All staff are fully trained and DBS checked.

Smart Sports Coaching gently pushes a message of healthy eating and a balanced diet, while developing and introducing children to a variety of sports.

For more information on days and times please call Barry on 0780 948 3191 or our office on 0117 377 2255.

Young People’s Activities Tel: 0117 377 2255

Mondays 10 - 11am Armchair Exercise, gentle exercise for people with limited mobility and learning disabilities (£2.50). Mondays 11.45 – 12.45pm Very Gentle Seated 4 - 5.00pm Afterschool club (term time only) Exercise for Older People (£2.50). 4-11yrs fun, active play (50p). 11 – 12noon One Heart Walking Group, Tuesdays meet in the café for a guided walk of 9.30 – 11am Blue Rainbow Group one or two miles (free), also provides including Stretch-n-Grow (term time only) information on joining the Two & Three stories, songs & games for 2-5yrs (50p). Heart Groups. Wednesdays 5.30 - 6.15pm Beatz Street Dance (term time 9.30 - 10.30am and 4 -5pm Waist only) for 6-10yrs brilliant and fun dance class. Watchers - support to lose weight. (Free). (£3.50 per session). 6.30pm Diabetes UK - meet the last 6.30-7.30pm Fresh Beatz Street Dance Monday of the month. (term time only) for 11-17yrs - dance class for the older ones! (£4 per session). Tuesdays Thursdays 9.30am Three Heart Walking Group, 4 - 5.00pm Afterschool club (term time only) call 0117 377 2257 for info. 4-11yrs - fun, active play (50p). 4.30pm Play Rangers in the Park (term time 9.45 - 11.45am Art-ease - art group for people with mild to moderate mental only) - free. health issues (eg, stress, mild depresSCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN DAYS for 4-11yr sion, recent bereavement, low self-esolds, every Wednesday & Friday in school teem, long term health condition (£1). holidays (£5 for day). T: Barry 0780 9483191. 1-3pm Talking Money - help, advice and support to individuals/families with money challenges. T: 0117 954 3990 to Adult Activities make an appointment. FREE. and Services 6pm & 7pm Hips, bums & tums - fat Tel: 0117 377 2255 burning exercise for people who want to be to trimmer (£3). Daily Activities

Active Lifestyles, support with your overall health. Book a FREE session to find out about hobbies, fitness and local groups. Call 0117 377 2257 to book an appointment. Smoking cessation; it’s easier with support! (Free) Pathways to Health, support to help you change your lifestyle and be happier. (Free) Family Therapy/Play Therapy, for children and families, call 377 2255 to book an appointment. (Free). Bootcamp the way to get fit is now on daily at various times, with Jason Hodge, Ffi: www.hodgehealthandfitnesss.co.uk or 0785 546 5872.

Wednesdays 10.30 -11.45am Tai Chi for Wellbeing simple Tai Chi based movement & mindfulness. (£2.50). 9.45 - 11.45am Art-ease - art group for people with mild to moderate mental health issues (eg, stress, mild depression, recent bereavement, low self-esteem, long term health condition (£1).

The Park & Youth Moves www.knowlewest.co.uk

Café

Bookings now being taken for Christmas meals in The Park Cafe. A bargain at £10 (£8.50 for staff and businesses of The Park) for a 3 course meal. Please pop in to the cafe or phone Steve or Chelsea on 0117 903 9776 to book your place. Why not book your staff Christmas meal with us? Fancy Sunday lunch out? The Park Café is now open 12-2pm, £5.95 each or 2 for £10. Just turn up.

for women wanting to make a change (free) T: 0117 377 2255 to book. 5.15 – 6pm Zumba - dance fun with a flavour of the Caribbean (£3.50). 6.10 – 7.10pm Step Aerobics improve strength and flexibility (£3). Fridays 10 - 12 noon Lip Reading Class - for people who are beginning to lose their hearing, term time only (£2). 11 - 12.30pm Ear Acupuncture benefits include relaxation, de-stress, and better sleep (£2).

Focus on Families Tel: 0117 377 2255 Various days during the week Counselling for men, women and young people - general counselling with fully qualified practitioners (free). Welcome Counselling - sexual abuse counselling for men and women (free). Women call 0117 377 2255. Men call 0117 935 1707. Family Counselling with fully qualified therapists (free). Play Therapy for children aged 3-16 years (free). The Green House Counselling sexual abuse counselling for children under 18 (free). Various children and parent groups running throughout the year. Contact Ilminster Avenue Nursery on 0117 903 9781 or Knowle West Children’s Centre on 0117 903 0214.

Raising Aspirations

On 20 and 21 January The Park and Bristol LA are offering a Careers Conference for young people in the South of Bristol. The large two-day event will invite South Bristol Secondary schools and will focus on raising young peoples’ aspirations – introducing them to the ideas of apprenticeships and higher education alongside Post 16 provision and employment, with the opportunity to take part in practical workshops.

Gym Instructors

Ever thought about how you could help your family and friends get fitter and healthier as well as earning an income? Then try a fitness instructor or personal training course at The Park Centre. You can continue your day job and study two evenings a week and some Saturdays. No previous experience is necessary, you just need to have a passion for health and fitness. The course is theory and practical with full tuition, as well as online support and guidance.For more details visit The Park Centre website or LA Revolution at http://la-revolution.co.uk/courses Alternatively, contact course tutor Les for an informal chat on 0780 479 5655.

Andy’s Haven Nursery

Well done to Andy’s Haven Nursery for winning an Outstanding Award from Britain in Bloom. All your hard work paid off. (See article on page 3).

Youth Moves hosts Royal Visit of HRH The Duke Of Gloucester

Levi Hodge, winner of the Ambition National Volunteer of the Year award for his work with Youth Moves, hosted a visit from The Duke of Gloucester to our youth space at The Park. This visit was to allow HRH to see at first hand the work that Levi has done for his community and to meet other young people who have had their lives changed through working with Youth Moves. It was amazing to have royalty attend our youth club and is great recognition for both Levi and Youth Moves of the work that we do! If you are interested in attending our sessions, coming along to volunteer, can help us with any fundraising or donating any items for our work then please get in touch on 0117 903 9796.

Thursdays 9.30am Two Heart Walking Group, call 0117 377 2257 for info. 10 - 12am Fit and Fab, a support group

Advertorial

Daventry Road, Knowle, Bristol, BS4 1DQ 0117 903 9770 www.theparkknowle.org.uk

Advertorial

New Activities @ The Park

Want to try a new activity? How about Zumba on Monday evenings @7.30pm and Thursday evenings 7pm. Please send an email if you would like more information Email: rutao.zumba@gmail.com

Jumpfit Monday @7pm

Jumpfit classes – the most fun you can have exercising.

Spaces to hire

We have a range of spaces available to hire. These include sports hall and dance studios which are ideal for fitness classes, conference rooms and a large main hall. If you are interested in hiring space for large scale events, or birthday parties, we also have function rooms and a soft play room. We can also provide a buffet and bar. Contact reception on 0117 903 9770 or email louise.hunt@ theparkknowle.org.uk for more information.

NCS – an amazing opportunity for 16-17 year olds

Youth Moves is really pleased to have secured the contract to deliver the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme for the next three years. NCS is a fantastic once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young people, aged 16-17 years old, which includes residential trips, allows them to gain new skills, become more employable, helps them to meet new people and get involved in their community. This autumn we took 58 young people from Bristol City Community Trust’s education department through the scheme. The teams ran projects taking out clients from South Bristol Drop-In, redecorating the community facilities at The Park Knowle FC, working with older people through LinkAge and supporting/ fund-raising for Marie Curie Cancer care. This all culminated in a graduation ceremony at The Pavilion Gloucester Cricket Ground. If you want to get involved with NCS this summer please go to www.ncswest.co.uk

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY There are lots of great things happening in our community - including many regular groups and activities. Your community website has an events calendar: www.knowlewest.co.uk/events To add your organisation or event contact Sue, Knowledge Editor on 0117 903 0444.

EVENTS Christmas Family Fun Day

Oasis Church South Bristol is holding an afternoon of family activities on Saturday 12 December at Oasis Academy Connaught on Melvin Square, from 1-5pm. Decoration making and Christmas crafts from 1-3pm followed by a Christmas film from 3-5pm. All welcome.

Yarn Craft Activities

Yarn craft activities including pom-pom making will take place on Tuesday 15 December at the Healthy Life Shop, 4 Filwood Broadway from 2-4pm. Staff will also be available to talk with people about health and wellbeing. For more information contact Kate Cooke: kate.cooke@bristol.gov.uk or 0117 922 3859.

Variety Show

Knowle West Arts Promotions is staging a Christmas-themed Variety Show at Filwood Community Centre on Tuesday 15 December at 6.30pm to showcase the students’ work. The event will include singing, tap dancing and a raffle. Tickets £2 on the door. For more information contact Gloria Tucker on 0117 953 298

Christmas Carol Service

Sunday 20 December at 5pm at the Salvation Army, Padstow Road, Knowle West.

Christmas Angels

Monday 21 December from 10-3pm at the Salvation Army, Padstow Road. Light a candle for someone you want to remember this Christmas. All welcome and refreshments served. Short service at 12.15pm.

Glow event

A Glow Event is planned for Filwood Broadway – pending a road closure application - for the afternoon/early evening

of Wednesday 20 January. Highlights will include free bike lights, decoration of bikes with extra lights and the sensory Playbus. Refreshments will be provided and other fun glow activities once it’s dark - including a short ride with lit, decorated bikes around the Broadway. For more information and times contact Kate Cooke on 0117 922 3859 or kate.cooke@ bristol.gov.uk

ADULTS Salvation Army:

• Tuesday Lunch Club every week at midday, cost £3 for a 3 course lunch. Mainly elderly people but anyone welcome. Followed by a Christian programme at 1pm. • Wednesday 12-2: Soup and toasted sandwich £1. Everyone welcome. Food Bank open, £1 a bag. To volunteer contact Captain Annette Allen at the Salvation Army, Padstow Road, on 0117 966 1369 Email: annette.allen@salvationarmy. org.uk

Free Courses in the New Year

Learning Communities Team (LCT) is running free courses for adults aged 19 or above. • Food Safety Level 2 – this course has a free crèche attached to it. Course dates: 11, 18 and 25 Jan and 1 Feb from 9.30-11.30am at Bristol Community Links South, Langhill Avenue BS4 1TN. • Paediatric First Aid Oasis Connaught (for parents at the school) and Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery and Children’s Centre. For details of these courses please contact Lucy Fieldhouse at LCT. • First Aid at Work Greville Smyth Bowling Club • Brush up your English Wednesdays either in Knowle or in Bedminster. LCT offers support if you need help with learning and can advise you of other courses and

learning opportunities around the city. For more information contact Lucy Fieldhouse on 0117 903 9763 or 0778 835 3446 or email lucy.fieldhouse@bristol.gov.uk

Learn to Cook

Knowle West Health Association’s (KWHA’s) Community Kitchen is running open cookery sessions for adults in December on Thursdays and Fridays from 12.30 – 2.30pm (term time only). Cost £3.50 per session (includes all ingredients, tuition, recipes and a meal to eat). To book call 0117 963 9569, email info@knowlewesthealthassoc.org.uk or pop in to 49b Filwood Broadway.

Art Exhibition

Filwood Library has a display of artwork and paintings by Whitchurch Art Group until mid January, some for sale. For more information contact the library on 0117 903 8581.

Filwood Chase History Society

Interested in local history, old photographs or archaeology? Filwood Chase History Society has a Heritage Centre dedicated to these. It is run by local people and meets on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons at The Park in Daventry Road from 1 - 4.30pm. For more information contact Ivor Grimstead on 0785 676 9285 or email filwoodchase@ gmail.com

Counselling

The counselling service at Knowle West Health Association (KWHA) is offering free sessions on a Monday and a Friday. These can be morning or afternoon sessions and are by appointment only. Please email: kwhacounselling@yahoo.com or call 0796 973 7076.

Printed on recycled paper with vegetable inks

Money Advice

Talking Money holds sessions at Knowle West Health Park on Tuesdays from 2-3pm for local people in financial difficulties. Speak to trained advisers or be referred for in-depth one-to-one help at Talking Money’s office in Old Market, Bristol. Appointments must be booked by calling Michelle on 0117 954 3990. For more information www.talkingmoney.org.uk

CHILDREN Filwood Library:

• Rhyme Times - Wednesday mornings at 10.30am (term time only) - songs, nursery rhymes, action songs and musical toys for 0-4 years. No charge and no need to book. • Story Times - Friday mornings at 10.30am (term time only) - stories, occasional puppets and colouring for 2-5 years. No charge and no need to book. • Christmas Craft Sessions drop in sessions to make simple crafts or decorations for Christmas. Monday 21 December 2-3.30pm and Wednesday 23 December 11-12.30pm. No charge and no need to book but under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. • School Class Visits - Christ the King on Tuesday mornings (term time only). For more information contact Filwood Library on 0117 903 8581 or email: filwood.library@ bristol.gov.uk

Kids Alive Club

Every Thursday at the Salvation Army, Padstow Road, Knowle West. 6.15-7.15pm - reception to Year 6 and 7.30-8.30pm. Year 7+. Cost £1 each. For more information contact Captain Annette Allen on 0117 966 1369 Email: annette. allen@salvationarmy.org.uk

YOUNG PEOPLE KWMC

• Control-Alt-Delete - Mondays 4.30 - 6pm, term time. Learn the basics of coding. Age 9+. • Creative Hub - Wednesdays 4-6pm and 6.30-8.30pm, term time. A weekly space to be creative. Ages 10-19. (Free). For more information call Sandra on 0117 903 0444.

Issue 71 (February – May 2016) Copy deadline: 25 January Delivered to your door from 15 Feb

All dates are subject to change – keep an eye on the Knowledge for definite dates.