Thursday, April 30, 2020

UNISON welcomes Supreme Court decision on ethical LGPS investment

This is an important legal ruling that effectively stops the UK £300 billion Council pension funds being told they cannot decide where to invest  unless it is pleases the current foreign or defence secretary. Well done to Greater London UNISON activist ,Jackie Lewis, for her role in this victory.

"UNISON has welcomed a Supreme Court decision overturning a ban on Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) investment decisions which differ from government foreign and defence policy.

Yesterday’s decision overturned regulations introduced in 2016 which banned the funds from disinvesting in companies or countries on ethical grounds, except where the government has imposed official sanctions.

These were aimed at campaigns calling on pension funds to disinvest from companies which profit from, for instance, arms sales or the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza.

Reacting to the court’s decision, UNISON head of local government Jon Richards said the union “has always been clear that the LGPS is an independent pension scheme” adding that ministers have no right to interfere in its decisions.

“Pension funds should serve the best interests of their members and if those members want to ethically invest or disinvest then – as long as decisions don’t undermine the pension fund – they must be allowed to do so,” he added.

The Palestine Solidarity Campaign and a member of its executive, Jackie Lewis who is also a UNISON member and a member of the LGPS pension scheme, asked for judicial review of the regulations which found that they were unlawful.

They were supported by the Quakers, the Campaign Against Arms Trade, and War on Want

However, the government won an appeal against that decision. The PSC and Ms Lewis then turned to the Supreme Court to overturn that appeal court decision, in a case that was heard last November. The court published its verdict yesterday.

“We congratulate Jackie on her victory,” added Mr Richards.

The LGPS in England and Wales has more than five million members and is made of 88 individual funds with assets estimated at £300bn. It has members in local government, education, police staff, the voluntary sector, environment agencies and private contractors".

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Cockneyish Thought for Today

Even though I have lived and worked in the East End of London for some 30 years, I had to stop and think about this one for a little while....

Hat tip UNISON AGS Roger McKenzie. I suspect from a London Underground Station information board. 

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Newham Council joins minutes silence in honour of fallen key workers

Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz today led councillors, staff and officers of Newham Council in observing a minute’s silence.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz today led councillors, staff and officers of Newham Council in observing a minute’s silence to honour the frontline NHS staff and key workers who have died from Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic.

The Mayor, who was at the Council’s Dockside offices in Beckton, had asked other staff working remotely, to join the tribute from wherever they were working.

More than a hundred health and social care workers have lost their lives to the disease since the start of the crisis, and there will be many more in key service areas like public transport who have, and continue to put themselves in harm’s way, so we can stay safe.

The Mayor said: “As a Council we wanted to pay our own tribute to the heroic workers who have lost their lives to Covid-19 as a result of serving their communities during this desperate time.

“It was a very moving moment where we could all come together, not physically, but emotionally to say thank you to those who have paid for their service with their lives. They will not be forgotten.”
hat tip Newham Council & photos Andrew Baker

Labour Leader Keir Starmer’s Workers’ Memorial Day Message

Workers Memorial Day 2020 - A one minutes silence of pictures

 Pictures from trades unions via TUC and from last year's Newham/ UNISON event

Monday, April 27, 2020

Zoom call with Thangam Debbonaire MP, Shadow Housing Secretary & Labour LG Housing Leads

This morning I took part in a virtual meeting with the new Shadow Housing Secretary, Thangam Debbonaire MP, chaired by Cllr Darren Rodwell (Leader of Barking & Dagenham Council). The Leader of Labour Local Government, Cllr Nick Forbes, also presented to the meeting.

It was a really useful and informative meeting. We have similar but different housing problems and it was good to hear from Thangam what she is doing to hold the government to account as well as how Labour Councils and opposition Groups across the land are tackling the crisis.

I had sent comments in beforehand and made a number of points, including that we must make it clear to the government that they need to give local authorities the resources to deliver on their Covid-19 promises. In particular, if they want to keep rough sleepers off the streets long term and ensure that families in temporary accommodation have suitable permanent self contained accommodation, then we desperately need the extra money to deliver on this.

It was really good to meet our new Shadow Secretary of State, Thangam, who was on top of things and clearly wanted to work with Labour local government. 

A great start and look forward to future meetings (apart from the fact that such virtual meeting photos make us all appear as if we are on some Crimewatch "Most Wanted" list). 

Sunday, April 26, 2020

Remember COVID-19 dead this International Workers’ Memorial Day

"Tuesday 28 April is International Workers’ Memorial Day, when we remember all those who have died because of their work – and renew our pledge to fight for the living.
In the year of coronavirus, this day of commemoration has never been more important. And that is why UNISON is asking the country to observe a minute’s silence, to remember all the health, care and other key workers who have already lost their lives to COVID-19.
The campaign for a minute’s silence at 11am next Tuesday was launched earlier this week by UNISON, the Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives, which collectively represent more than a million NHS and public service workers, including porters, refuse collectors and care staff.
UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said it would be “the ultimate tribute to remember workers who’ve lost their lives and put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and vital services running.
“Every year, the sacrifice of workers around the world is recognised, but this year has a special significance because of the pandemic.
“Thousands of key staff are on the frontline while the rest of us are in lockdown. That’s why we’ve issued this call for the whole country to take part and remember the sacrifices they’ve made. The best tribute we can all pay them is to stay inside to protect the NHS.”
Thousands of workers across the UK are caring for those suffering from COVID-19 or delivering vital public services that are vital for us all – potentially putting their own safety and even their own lives at risk.
In many cases, these workers know that, by simply doing their jobs, they are putting themselves at risk.
The risks faced by those working in the health and social care sectors has already been acknowledged, but there are also others – those working in childcare, police services and refuse collection, in hostels and rescue centres, in gas, water and electricity, and in transport services among them – whose work and dedication often goes unacknowledged.
Tragically, some of these workers have already died. In some cases, more could have been done to protect them, whether by better enforcement of social distancing, looking after workers with underlying health conditions or provision of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep them safe.
While improvements have been seen in some areas, more needs to be done – specifically in relation to assessing the risks our members are facing and ensuring that all staff who require it are getting the protective equipment needed to do the job safely.
UNISON has never been afraid to demand the highest standards for workers; we have not been afraid to speak out and hold the government to account on providing the right PPE when staff need it, and to hold employers to account who are not doing enough to keep their workers safe.
All of this adds to the importance of observing a minutes’ silence at 11am next Tuesday".

Saturday, April 25, 2020

The "Spanish" flu epidemic & a Canadian Bolshevik Revolt in Wales

For the reasons given in my post from 2008 (see below) I have been conscious of the impact of viral pandemics from an early age.

There are some 80 graves of Canadian soldiers at the Marble Church in Bodelwyddan, North Wales.

Up to 76 of them may have died from the 1918/19 flu epidemic and at least 4 were killed after a violent confrontation between military authorities and those wanting to go home to Canada asap after the end of the first world war (including some who wanted to set up a Bolshevik revolutionary Soviet in the nearby military camp).

Check out Spanish flu - Wikipedia and I think that most people will recognise some striking similarities (as well as differences) with our present crisis.

https://www.johnslabourblog.org/2008/05/come-on-bolsheviks-first-british-soviet.html

Friday, April 24, 2020

Hey guys!!! it's Dettol o'clock!!!

The latest idiocy from the "leader" of the free world. The BBC reports that disinfectant firms have had to issue public warnings that people should not inject or drink their products to treat Covid-19.

Hat tip my UNISON comrade, Eddie Brand, who as the branch secretary of our London Ambulance Service has a professional interest in pouring scorn on such moronic comments. 

Newham Reflections - Ramadan

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

#HelpNewham - delivering support to residents who are most in need.

#HelpNewham
The Council has launched #HelpNewham – a way of delivering support to residents who are most in need. 
If you are in one of the priority groups listed below or want to refer someone who is in need of support, please complete the form below or email us at help@newham.gov.uk or call 0208 430 2000.
#HelpNewham offers support to:  
  • Residents aged over 70 who live alone and do not have the support of friends or family
  • Those who receive support through adult social care and who have health conditions identified by the NHS
  • Young people whom we care for or support through social services
  • Families with children with special educational needs and disabilities
  • Members of our street homeless community 
  • Families living in temporary accommodation
  • Those who have been contacted directly by the NHS as part of their programme to shield 1.5 million people nationwide
If you identify with any of the above Newham Council can provide you with the following support:  
  • Home delivery of food and essential items (e.g. toothpaste, sanitary items) 
  • Home delivery of prescription medication 
  • Someone to talk to via our befriending telephone chat service 

What types of things will be in the delivery pack?

We have planned the contents of the food pack to ensure that it includes healthy, nutritious food.
The pack will include things like oats, Weetabix, milk, tea, bread, vegetable/lentil soup, tuna, nuts, rice, spaghetti, jam, baked beans, fruit and eggs.
If needed, we will also provide you with bathroom and kitchen items such as toilet paper, toothpaste, soap and washing up liquid.

How will the prescription service work?

If you already get your prescription medications delivered to your home, this will continue.
If you do not already get them delivered, please ask someone you trust to collect them for you.
If that is not possible, please call Newham’s Customer Service team on 0208 430 2000 and we will arrange for someone to help you. 

What is the Befriending Chat Service?

The Befriending Chat Service will provide you with the opportunity to have a chat with one of our Council employees.
Talking to others is an important part of making sure that we are looking after our health and wellbeing. 
We are not able to meet people in person at the moment but the Befriending chat service will allow you to make a tea and have a friendly chat to someone on the phone!

How do I sign up for Help Newham?

If you fall into one of the above vulnerable groups, a Council staff member will contact you directly, by either letter or phone.
If you require urgent assistance, please call our Customer Service team on 0208 430 2000.

Can I receive your support more than once?

Yes. Our plan is to provide you with support for as long as you need it. 

I am not eligible for Help Newham. How else can I get help?

At this time, only residents who are considered vulnerable and fall into one of the above categories will be able to receive support through #HelpNewham.
If you, or someone you know, requires support, here are some other ways you can get help: 
  • Ask for help from people that you trust: It is important that you ask for help when you need it. Try calling, texting or using social media apps such as Whatsapp and Facebook to get in contact with family, friends and your neighbours. If they are healthy and able to do so, you can ask them to collect your food, essential items and medication, or call you for a chat. 
  • Voluntary Community Organisations: There are many organisations in the voluntary sector who are providing all kinds of support to people.  Please call our Customer Service Team on 0208 430 2000 and a member of staff will be able to provide details of the most appropriate service. 
If you are unsure on where to get help or need urgent assistance, please call Newham Council’s Customer Service team on 0208 430 2000.

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Workers Memorial Day - Tuesday 28 April 2020 Theme: Coronavirus

For a number of years my trade union branch (UNISON Greater London Housing Associations) and West Ham Labour Party have supported Workers Memorial Day with a ceremony at the "Clasping Hands" statute in Stratford.

Workers Memorial Day is an international event held every 28 April to remember workers who have been killed at work or have died from work related diseases.

This year we cannot hold such a physical memorial event due to Coronavirus social isolation requirements, but I think everyone understands that 2020 Workers Memorial Day, will be especially important, as we remember all the health and care workers who have died from Coronavirus as well all the other workers such as the bus drivers, cleaners and shop workers.

Check out the call by the TUC for a minutes silence at 11am on Tuesday 28 April.

I have to make the point that no one mentions at the current daily Government briefings on Coronavirus that we are now trying to play catch up after 10 years of austerity for the NHS and social care never mind the official ridicule and scorn shown in this past decade towards workers "elf & safety".

Monday, April 20, 2020

Queen Elizabeth Park Walk - Sunday 19 April

This picture college is from yesterday when Gill and I went for our daily exercise by walking around Queen Elizabeth Park in Stratford. This is the former Olympic 2012 Park which I think I have not walked around the park for walking sake since 2012!

It was a lovely sunny day yesterday and while it was fairly busy, people were on the whole very sensible with regard to social distancing.

There are a number of circular walks that you can carry out in the park. Check out the website above.

Sunday, April 19, 2020

My COVD19 experience: Mark Fisher



Mark is a friend, a UNISON comrade and fellow Labour Party activist. He is a similar age to me and of course, a fellow taff. It was shocking that such a larger than life, fit and active person should become so ill. A lesson to all of us to keep self isolating and seek advice. He is 3rd from right in photo with me at the TUC demo in 2018 alongside UNISON former lay Presidents Wendy, Maureen and our current senior Vice President Sian.  

"My COVD19 experience.My name is Mark Fisher Chair of Neath Port Talbot/ National Executive Council Member for the Great Nation Of Wales 󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿representing UNISON.

This is my experience of COVD19, testing Positive also having hospital admission. 

I was feeling unwell for approx 10 days before I became very ill. I had dry cough, dry eyes , headache, loss of taste and smell and difficulties with breathing. I fought it at home which in hindsight was not a good decision, after sleeping on the settee, couldn’t lift my head off the pillow or keep water down plus a high temperature I gave in listening to my concerned wife and rang 111 also my Doctors, who advised to call the Paramedics. 

The fantastic paramedics turned up and checked me out and due to my symptoms advised me to go into hospital, I was very concerned about the lack of PPE the Paramedics had, it was only a small plastic cover and small mask
. He was concerned about me coughing on him and asked if I could try not to cough on him. 

On reflection I am very concerned about the lack of PPE for front line workers, I was tested positive for COVD19 and they put themselves and their families at risk to treat myself, I was so proud and grateful for those fantastic paramedics.

I was admitted to Morriston Hospital with high temperature, lack of oxygen, breathing problems and headaches, I was tested for COVD19 and given chest X-ray which showed infections, I was treated with oxygen, fluids, antibiotics etc , I stayed on the temp COVID19 ward for 36 hours, until I was moved to ward H, where my treatment continued with IV drugs , fluids, oxygen and one to one nursing. I was very ill for 2 or 3 days, however the treatment made me better after a few scary days.

The ward I was put on was for potential COVD19 patients who were very ill , the treatment received was fantastic, Doctors were fantastic and staff were very busy looking after very ill patients. I have to say, due to the lack of staff, also high risk element, there was little care element, this is no reflection on staff as they were extremely busy also short staffed.

As a frightened patient without visitors, it was hard getting information to family . The PPE on the COVD19 holding Ward was excellent all staff had full PPE when entering or leaving the ward.

A few days after my admission I was informed by the nurse that I tested Positive for COVD19 and I was infectious and had to be moved to a full COVD19 Ward. Due to them being extremely busy, I had no explanation on the positive COVD19, I was moved to the COVD19 Positive ward and spent 2 days in there having further treatment, the staff had full PPE and Doctor spent time explaining Positive COVD19. 

Again there was little care due to them running around and lack of care, however, as said the treatment was excellent, nobody spoke to update my worried family, due to them being extremely busy. I am pleased to say that after 5 days in hospital, I was discharged to continue my recovery at home with full antibiotics to fight the virus. 

After 2 weeks self isolation, I am on the recovery and feel 100% percent better. I have to pay respect to all who treated me in hospital also at home, the fantastic NHS potentially saved my life. 

I hope my experience will help others seek help straight away, as I could have avoided an hospital admission if I had sought treatment sooner, please, please, please - if you have any concerns ring 111 or seek advice. 

I am also pleased to say I agreed to trial new drugs whilst in hospital also when home and I believe these drugs helped improve my condition and after 3 weeks I am on a full recovery, I am happy for you to use my experience to help others. Thanks Mark Fisher"

Saturday, April 18, 2020

There for all our members in the time of coronavirus

A call to arms: how your branch can help There for You help members hit by crisis and loss of money

There for You is there for UNISON members who experience hard times. In the current coronavirus crisis, that’s pretty much everyone.
As our welfare charity, There for You is helping more and more members who find that their limited income has been hit by the crisis.
For many members, asking for financial help from There for You is something they’d only consider on a rainy day they hoped would never actually arrive.
But it has.
For too many UNISON members, this pandemic means the rain is pouring down and they risk being flooded out.
Some are losing work and have no income because they are on zero-hour contracts.
Some are having their hours cut or being made redundant without redundancy pay.
Many are also facing a situation where someone in the household is self-employed and family income has drastically dropped.
Some members and their families are self-isolating. So members need emergency grants from There for You.
Helping members in this situation is what UNISON and our welfare charity is here for. It’s basic solidarity.
And our branches can help extend that solidarity by making a donation to There for You (see below for details).
How can your branch help?
Your branch can make donations to There for You by direct bank transfer to:
Account name: Unison Welfare (Charity) There for You
Unity Trust Bank
Sort code: 60-83-01
Account number: 20215147.
Please also include a reference, consisting of your branch number and the letters COV to identify the type of donation. To be doubly sure, it would help if branches email There for You’s Paul Haylock on p.haylock@unison.co.uk when they’ve made a donation.
The There for You offices at UNISON Centre in London are currently closed and not receiving mail, so please don’t send cheques.
A number of branches have asked if they can donate to There for You from their industrial action funds. The short answer is: given the extraordinary circumstances – Yes, to a maximum of 5% of industrial action fund.
However this decision to use up to 5% of industrial action funds must be agreed by either a branch committee or the chairperson, branch secretary and treasurer.
The union’s rules allow branches to transfer 5% of their industrial action fund to general funds each year, if that is agreed by a general meeting of members.
But the coronavirus lock-down and social distancing measures mean meetings can’t take place for branches to make that democratic decision.
After careful consideration, UNISON’s presidential team – the most senior lay members of the union – has agreed to take the decision on behalf of all branches in this unique situation.
This means that every branch can donate up to 5% of its industrial action fund to the national There for You fund.
Like the welfare charity, branches’ industrial action funds are there to provide solidarity for members in rainy days.
And it’s pouring down: for our members; for health workers and care workers; for frontline and many unsung workers providing key services at this crucial time; for members who are affected by COVID-19 or a loss of income.
Our members need us. They need our support and solidarity. And your branch can help provide it.

Friday, April 17, 2020

How Newham has deployed an army of volunteers to support residents

Hat tip Labour List by Rokhsana Fiaz, Executive Mayor of Newham.

"Two weeks ago, there was nothing. Some ideas, lots of questions and a whole bunch of challenges to overcome. How can we get food, medicine, essential household items and support to residents who need to self-isolate or are vulnerable? We had no locations, no names, no confirmed supply chain, no data system, and no joint arrangements with the voluntary and community sectors. As a social activist turned politician, I know that it can take a while for local government to mobilise. But the response over these past two weeks has blown me away.

By last weekend, we had taken delivery of one ton of food, which has since been packed into 900 boxes by volunteers including residents and hundreds of council staff. We have requisitioned schools – closed to the majority of pupils – and council buildings, and transformed them into eight #HelpNewham local hubs. From those hubs, we distribute prescription medicines, food and essential supplies to our most vulnerable.

This army of volunteers is made up of residents and hundreds of council staff, who are giving up their time to help with the mission we have embarked on: protecting and supporting our residents during this coronavirus pandemic. The mission has taken a humanitarian vigour to it, coupled with logistical precision and agile management – though there’s a discreteness to the hub locations, to avoid theft.

We are not unique, of course – I know many other Labour councils are doing the same. But I think that we in Newham have something we can share with others, and over 20 authorities from across the country have been in touch to learn from what we have done. One of the biggest challenges will be to ensure that our supply chains are maintained. All the great work of our volunteer army could be for nothing if we don’t have supplies to deliver.

We have embedded community wealth building in our local hub model and approach, which is about addressing poverty and inequality, protecting livelihoods and building stronger communities. Because we know that the economic impact of the pandemic is going hurt so many people; in the last two weeks alone, we have seen one million people apply for Universal Credit.

Our #HelpNewham local hubs are working with all parts of our communities: our schools, faith groups, youth workers, residents and local businesses, who have all made incredibly generous donations. We are supporting local businesses as well by ensuring that our catering service, Juniper, is sourcing local produce and household items from local suppliers where possible.

In our last survey of residents, nearly a third of people said that they had no-one they could rely on when things became difficult. It’s a stark reminder that even in one of the busiest cities in the world, people can feel incredibly lonely and isolated.

In response, we are setting up a phone ‘befriending service’, which can be staffed by people who also have to stay at home. This will be a chance to have some human interaction, a quick natter over a cup of tea, to break the monotony of being on your own. But our call handlers will also have detailed scripts so they can provide the right guidance and support to our most vulnerable residents.

This has been one of the most testing moments for government – for central government but also for local councils, which are already struggling with huge reductions to our budgets. Now we are in the midst of a global crisis, where we are on the frontline to delay the spread of the virus and save lives.

We had to take a very difficult decision to close the Stratford Mall shopping centre during the nights, following the requirement by government to house all rough sleepers by the end of one weekend. For those of you not familiar with our borough, the shopping centre has become a place of comfort for many rough sleepers, despite the risks that they face.

The advice of our public health experts was that the risk of coronavirus spreading amongst those sleeping there and others was too great. In a space of a few hours, our specialist officers supported by volunteers had to find accommodation for a group of 30 rough sleepers – amongst our most vulnerable residents.

We have all been learning as we go, and no doubt mistakes will be made. It has not been easy for everyone to adapt so quickly to working remotely, but I’ve been impressed by the way in which my colleagues have embraced everything from Skype calls to using Sharepoint or Zoom to collaborate. We had planned to shift to this way of working anyway, but not at the pace that the crisis has imposed on us.

Newham has become something of a hub for the pan-London Covid-19 relief effort, where all councils are coordinating efforts to delay the spread of the virus and save lives. There is the NHS Nightingale – the 4,000 bed hospital built in the Excel centre, next door to our own council offices. It was completed in just nine days. And a new temporary mortuary has been set up in Manor Park.

I could never have imagined all this a month ago. When this is all over, many of our first thoughts will be to seeing friends again, going out for a bite to eat at a local restaurant, watching a film at the cinema or giving our loved ones a heartfelt hug. But when normality has returned, we should also reflect on all the lives that have been lost.

While I have been incredibly moved and impressed by the work of our voluntary and faith groups to support those at risk, in the end, this crisis has shown the importance of a functioning and well-funded state. Whether it is keeping a business going, a hospital working, or vital council services operating, it is something that the architects of austerity must consider – because our world has changed indelibly.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

"Statement from GMB Labour Party staff branch in response to leaked internal report"

I must admit to being very shocked at reading about this issue and fully support the decision by Keir and Angela to launch an urgent independent investigation into the “dossier".

I note this briefing from the trade union branch that represents Labour Party staff which I tend to agree with and in which I also note that certain staff named in the "dossier" have apparently “flatly denied” making some attributed comments. 

 I definitely have serious concerns about any document being released that informs Neo-Nazis of the names and locations of Jewish members who have made complaints against them.

In the past as a trade union representative I have had to very strongly (and successfully) resist management from taking inappropriate action based on anonymous allegations and media reports.

I think that everyone should not jump to conclusions and give the independent investigation - a chance to investigate.

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Before and after: What could possibly go wrong?

Off message but many thanks to Gill for cutting my hair this afternoon with my redundant beard trimmer!

I have always disliked having long hair.

In the scheme of things this is all very unimportant but I thought it may offer folk some light relief.

Recently I spoke to an old friend who lives in the country who had just cut her husband's hair with horse clippers.

We watched a few YouTube videos beforehand and then took the plunge. We didn't have any decent scissors so used the short hair setting on side and long on top. It seemed to have worked.

There is a small bald spot on my left hand side from over enthusiastic clipping but luckily with Zoom and Skype meetings,  all you need is a frontal look.

No one mentioned it at the Newham Council all member Skype briefing this evening which I chaired.

I offered to return the favour to Gill and cut her hair but for some strange, strange reason she said no!!!!!!! 

Monday, April 13, 2020

West Ham Park, International Brigade memorial, Willow Lodge, Greenway & Gandhi

For our daily exercise Gill and I walked from Forest Gate to West Ham Park via the lovely art works in Earlham Grove (bottom left of collage). The park today was looking magnificent in the spring sunshine and "safe" following the closure on Easter Friday and Saturday by the Police because too many people were in the park to enable safe self isolation. The sudden spring chill had reduced the temperature by a half compared to Friday - so no sunbathing or picnics.

I was really pleased to seek out and find in the West Ham Park rose garden, the bench which has the memorial to the Spanish Civil War  International Brigade soldier and poet, David Marshall. It needs some repair and attention which I will look into.

On route to the Greenway, we stumbled across the Willow Lodge 1836, which is right opposite Plaistow station. Apparently the lodge of a former long lost manor house. Must find out more about this Grade 2 listed building.

The Greenway (the former Northern outfall Sewer) is a wonderful green asset. "In 1931 Gandhi visited London for a period of 3 months for talks on the future of India, he based himself at Kingsley Hall in Bromley-by-Bow. His host there, the Christian Socialist Muriel Lester described[17] his long early morning walks, beginning before sunrise, and which often took in the Sewerbank through Stratford to Plaistow. Gandhi enjoyed the elevated view the bank offered, and on these walks he would always gather a collection of well-wishers eager to speak to him".

Sunday, April 12, 2020

Newham Reflections - Easter Sunday 2020



UPDATE ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19):
REFLECTIONS ON EASTER SUNDAY DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS
AS THOSE INFECTED WITH THE VIRUS IN NEWHAM RISES TO 702 CASES
FROM MAYOR ROKHSANA FIAZ
11th April 2020
Dear Newham Resident,
Tomorrow, Easter Sunday, is the most important time in the Christian year. It is a time of new life, hope and renewal. Whatever your faith, or no faith, this four-day long weekend, is a time when many of us would normally be getting together with our families and friends to enjoy each other’s company, relax and recharge, or eat too much chocolate.
But the current coronavirus crisis is unprecedented. The weather is beautiful, and as much as we want to be with those close to us, please follow the Government advice to stay home and save lives. Our loved ones would rather welcome us at a later date, than not at all.
Today we hear that 78,991 people have tested positive for Covid-19 across the UK so far, excluding Northern Ireland. This includes 702 confirmed cases in Newham. Across the country, 9,875 people have now died, an increase of 917 on yesterday’s figures; and we are still waiting for an update on Newham figures from the 59 deaths which I reported earlier this week.
These include the 19 NHS staff who have died, on the day that the Health Secretary Matt Hancock was criticised for suggesting that frontline staff working are wasting personal protective equipment (PPE) and the Home Secretary has said sorry ‘if people feel there have been failings’, when pressed on his comments and after announcing a public awareness campaign for domestic abuse victims and an additional £2m to bolster domestic abuse helplines and online support.
Providing supplies which are quickly delivered has to be an ongoing priority, alongside increasing testing in our communities, because emerging evidence is pointing to some worrying disparities - as a disproportionate number of Black, Asian and Ethnic Minorities appear to be contracting the virus. Earlier today, the government announced that Turkey has supplied the UK with 250,000 items of protective equipment, which will be taken to a regional NHS distribution hub to be delivered to medical centres across the country.
This shows how the world and different countries are coming together. More of that needs to happen to deal with the health and economic impact of this deadly global pandemic.
This year more than ever, Easter is a good time to reflect on the diversity of the planet, and in Newham we are a microcosm of a global community. A place where mutual respect and kindness to each other at times of adversity brings us together. We are enriched, not divided by our diversity of faiths, cultures and races.
It’s a subject I spoke about with Revd Dave Chesney, vicar of Ascension Church, Custom House, and Area Dean of Newham; in a specially recorded video message which you can view here: https://youtu.be/MZPKKEr4_rs
We reflected on how the traditional message of Easter as a journey through pain and suffering into a time of new life and hope is the same as it ever was, but it really means more this year.
Seeing how people across the borough are coming together regardless of faith, loving each other, and helping each other with small acts of random kindness, is a reminder that we will get through this terrible crisis together.
I know we won’t forget the heroic work being done by all those who are not getting a break over Easter, especially NHS staff and care workers whose service knows no public holiday. I know that like me, many of you will take a moment this Easter Sunday to mourn for all those that have died so far during this crisis.
On behalf of Newham councillors and staff, I wish everyone in the borough who is marking Easter Sunday - a day of hope that it engenders.
Please continue to stay safe and #StayAtHome for the safety of all of us.
Best wishes,
Rokhsana Fiaz
Mayor of Newham

Saturday, April 11, 2020

Bluebells in Chalet Wood, Wanstead Park

For our hour's exercise yesterday, Gill and I went for a walk in Wanstead Park to see the bluebells in Chalet Wood. They are simply magnificent this year and appear to be at or near their peak.

The park was not crowded at all and the the pathways in the wood itself were cleverly turned into one way only paths to aid self isolation. After the bluebells (please be careful to keep to the paths and control dogs and children) there is a superb walk around the various lakes in the park.

The park is around 10-15 mins walk from the Newham boundary with Redbridge in Forest Gate, Manor Park and little Ilford

I will post more pictures from the walk on Facebook & link to it.

Friday, April 10, 2020

"Bloody foreigners, coming over here, saving our lives"

Hat tip my UNISON Police staff comrade Tony Green for this brilliant photo from 2018 reminding us that so many of our front line NHS (& Social Care) heroes were not born in the UK. 

Thursday, April 09, 2020

Bwthyn Unig / Lone Cottage by Kyffin Williams: Ebrill April 2020

Another lovely painting Welsh artist Kyffin Williams. This month's landscape is from my 2020 National Library of Wales calendar. 

I would love to be walking along this track this Easter weekend. Maybe next year....

Wednesday, April 08, 2020

"Coronavirus: Newham Council approves more than £60m worth of council tax and business rates relief"

Headline is from the Newham Recorder and picture of Newham Mayor, Rokhsana Fiaz at our 2nd "urgent" Council Cabinet meeting of the current crisis on Friday (3rd April).

Because of legal requirements that all Cabinet meetings had to have at least 3 members present, the Mayor, myself and Cllr Julianne Marriott (Education Chief) were physically present at the meeting with certain senior officers (ironically this requirement was changed the following day).

Other Cabinet and Executive members (and Chair of Scrutiny)  skyped into the meeting as well as senior managers.

As the Recorder reports, we discussed and approved 3 proposals (see live Facebook feed of the meeting https://www.facebook.com/newhamcouncil/videos/2634262050189672/)

We agreed over £60 million of Council tax and business rates relief. Some 20,000 of the poorest Newham families and Households (around 20% of all liable to pay) will now pay zero or little Council tax.

A 100% discount on business rates for eligible businesses who will be also able to apply for grants of between £10,000 to £25,000.

Leisure, retail and hospitality businesses, as well as nurseries are the main beneficiaries of the grants. So your local private gym, clothes shops and pubs should be able to apply for help.

We also agreed to safeguard our critical and essential public services such as bin collections, highways safety, child protection, social care, youth safety, temporary and emergency accommodation

Extra powers were also approved for our Chief Executive and Directors to increase the power to make urgent procurement decisions due to the COVID emergency (subject to consultation with the appropriate Cabinet member). These powers will only be for COVID issues and will last for 6 months and reviewed in 3 months. Cllr Marriott clarified that we can rescind these powers sooner if they are not needed any more.

Cllr Sarah Ruiz (virtually) asked the question about will the Government deliver on their promises to pay for all this? In the light of 10 years of austerity this is a fair point. I also asked that we press for greater clarity and guidance from the government on what they have promised. For example we have undertaken significant expenditure on moving homeless families and children into more suitable self contained accommodation? Will we get the money back and what about afterwards? Will we get the money to properly house these families for the long term?

It was a sombre meeting, knowing how important these issues are to everyone who lives or works in Newham. We were also conscious that we are making these important decisions, without all the usual constitutional and governance arrangements.  I think we have muddled through imperfectly but in the finest traditions of British local government, adapting and evolving to meet the most serious national crisis in my lifetime. 

Tuesday, April 07, 2020

Self isolating circular walk from Forest Gate via Bush Wood & Wanstead

On Sunday Gill and I took advantage of the lovely weather to walk from home for our hour of exercise. We went via Wanstead flats (Epping Forest) past Jubilee Pond into Bush Wood then Wanstead then home. There is loads of beautiful openspaces and parkland within London.

As you can see, pretty much everyone we saw was acting appropriately and keeping to government guidelines. If we keep this up then our parks and open spaces will not have to be closed.

I note today that the French government have banned taking physical exercise between 10am to 7pm. Hopefully, if we keep to our government guidelines such drastic measure will not need to be introduced in the UK. 

Monday, April 06, 2020

Self isolate or this may happen in UK

Hat tip UK Government website

"This is a non-professional translation of the French personal travel exemption relating to the COVID-19 decree.

You must download the French form below, print it and complete it and carry it on your person for each outing.

This attestation complements the printed and paper versions currently in circulation and works on smartphones or tablets with a QR code which allows the police to scan it without needing to touch the device. Police will also be able to see if and when the attestation was edited to counter fraudulently dated and timed copies. There is no risk to data being stolen, as files will not be stored. However, you can save your own information.

In accordance with Article 3 of the decree issued on 23 March 2020 prescribing the general measures necessary to deal with the coronavirus (Covid-19) epidemic in the context of the health emergency

I, the undersigned

Mrs/Mr:

Born on:

Address:

  • certify that my trip is related to the following reason authorised by article 3 of the decree of 23 March 23 2020 prescribing the general measures necessary to deal with the coronavirus (Covid-19) epidemic in the context of the state of emergency:
  • trips between home and place of work, when there is essential need for it, because the professional activity cannot be performed at home (provide permanent documentary proof) or professional trips that cannot be postponed
  • outings to make essential purchases (full list available on gouvernement.fr), or to purchase supplies that are indispensable to professional activity, or to withdraw cash
  • outings for urgent medical care, appointments and care that cannot take place remotely, care for chronic diseases, such as diabetes
  • outings for essential family reasons, to assist vulnerable people or for childcare
  • short trips, close to home, for individual physical activity, excluding collective sports, and for the needs of domestic animals; a walk with someone living in your household; within 1km of your home; no longer than an hour; only once per day
  • responding to administrative and judicial summons
  • joining a community activity, if asked by your administrative authority

Completed in (name of town or city) on (MMY) and time (hour you left home) Signature

Sunday, April 05, 2020

An Address by Her Majesty The Queen - BBC



As a committed republican I did not expect to post on this site an address by Her Majesty The Queen. However, she is our Head of State and her broadcast this evening on the COVID-19 emergency was very good. As someone who lived and served through World War 2 her words mean more than any other current politician and she delivered it with the right amount of gravatas. 

Saturday, April 04, 2020

Keir Starmer acceptance speech (and results)



What a fantastic result (and such a relief). Keir is elected as Leader and Angela as Deputy by decisive margins (and to top it all Carol Sewell as new BAME Labour Party NEC member!). For the first time since the disaster of 12.12.19 I feel hope for our political future.



Friday, April 03, 2020

Who will lead the Labour Party? Find out 10.45am tomorrow


BBC reports "Members will learn the outcome via e-mail and the media after a planned special conference to unveil the winner was cancelled due the coronavirus pandemic.

The candidates for leader have each been asked to record victory speeches, one of which will be released alongside details of how many votes each candidate received.

The process of choosing a new leader began in December after Labour lost its fourth general election in a row".

Fingers crossed for you know who....

Thursday, April 02, 2020

Leeds University Reunion 1981-84 (and at 8pm we #ClapforOurCarers)

We live in a very strange and somewhat scary world and in the midst of this international emergency a group of us decided to make the best of a very bad lot to organise a virtual reunion on Zoom and "meet up" after in some cases 36 years apart.

We were all students in Leeds University and most of us at one stage shared a house together (6 Stanmore in Headingley, Leeds) and/or were members of the University Territorial Army unit LUOTC.

Many thanks to Mike (still in Leeds) for organising; Vicki, Claire, Sue, Fiona (in Holland) and Max (in Australia) for taking part.

Apart from it being great to meet up again after so long and share memories, it was also really fascinating about how "C19" had impacted on their lives across the UK and Holland/Australia. Amidst the many happy 1980s reminisces, we are all very aware of the many difficult and tragic situations going on in this country and the rest of the world.

We hope to meet up again online in 3 weeks time and invite others from our memory bank to participate. We stopped at 8pm to "#ClapForOurCarers" but I am not sure that Max could participate since it was 6am in New South Wales.

Finally, apologies to all for the Zoom picture and instead check out this one below (not all of us) #WhenWeWereYoung


Wednesday, April 01, 2020

Newham Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz update about Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1 April


UPDATE ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): 330 CONFIRMED CASES OF COVID-19 IN NEWHAM AND HIGHEST RISE OF DEATHS IN A SINGLE DAY IN THE UK. WHICH IS WHY #StayAtHome IS VITAL

FROM MAYOR ROKHSANA FIAZ
April 1 2020

Dear Newham Resident,

As we settled in for the evening by ourselves or with immediate loved ones, we won’t find solace in the fact that today the UK recorded its highest number of deaths caused by coronavirus - rising by 563 people to 2,353.

The government reports that 152,979 people in the UK have been tested so far, with 29,474 recorded as positive. But figures from the Office for National Statistics also reveal that dozens more people have been dying as a result of the pandemic in care homes and other settings, meaning the true total is likely to be considerably higher.

In London, 8,341 people have been tested positive and here in Newham, 330 of our friends, colleagues and neighbours have now tested positive. Up 43 from yesterday.

Tragically, it was confirmed overnight that one of those to have died in London, was Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab from south London. He was 13-years-old with no underlying health conditions.

Also on the day it emerged that only 2,000 frontline NHS England staff have been tested for coronavirus, out of about half a million staff members, we found out that a retired doctor who answered the call to help has also lost his life - the fourth frontline medic to do so.

My heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones in such devastating circumstances, and I pray for a full recovery to all those suffering the effects of the virus.

It is clear we have still to reach the height of the virus’ impact in London and in our borough. That’s why it’s more important than ever to continue to follow the rules, and follow all the official trusted advice, be it from the NHS, Public Health England, or from ourselves at the Council. With more time on our hands, the internet is a tempting distraction, but it can also be a source of misleading, irresponsible and dangerous information.

People may want to believe fake information stories as an excuse not to follow the guidelines and carry on with our normal behaviours, but we all must really follow rules to protect each other. That includes thinking that driving in a car is an easy way around the restrictions. As Professor Yvonne Doyle, Public Health England’s director for health protection and medical director, has said it shows a worrying complacency on the back of evidence that shows that too many people are out and about in their cars more.

Stories about phony cures and conspiracy theories only detract from the crucial message about #StayAtHome. We must also continue to practice social distancing, avoid congregating in groups, keep up rigorous personal hygiene standards, as well as cutting out unnecessary travel – by cars or any other form of transport.

All of this advice is grounded in scientific fact, not wild speculation, and will keep you and your loved ones safer and at less risk of infection. While the vast majority of Newham residents are following the rules, there are sadly a minority in our borough who seem to think that the rules don’t apply to them.

Under emergency laws introduced on March 21 2020, the Council now has powers to take enforcement action against those who flout the law. Parks are being patrolled, (Police) officers are giving people in group’s advice to disperse, and where necessary have the power to make arrests.

In our high streets, Trading Standards, supported by law enforcement officers have been visiting shops deemed non-essential and advising them to close down immediately. Since patrols began, 50 have complied and four shops have been issued with notices for closure.

We have also had complaints about shops “hiking” prices for some essentials, and while there are lengthy and complicated legal means to tackle this, the best advice is to refuse to shop there. People power is a forceful tool, by all means call-out the profiteers, but if you don’t hand over your cash they will soon get the message. But we continue to monitor the situation and continue to tackle the few who are acting irresponsibly, to protect the many.

We must keep on top of this virus and delay its spread. If you are unsure about anything, you read or hear visit us at www.newham.gov.uk for latest about the virus, council services, health advice and help if you need it.

As always, stay safe and let’s #HelpNewham together.