Julie’s July Newsletter
This month brings us two reasons to celebrate! Firstly, we congratulate Susan Hall for her nomination as our Mayoral candidate. Secondly, we applaud Steve Tuckwell for securing the seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip at the recent by-election prompted by the resignation of Boris Johnson. Steve's success not only reflects his long history of serving the community but also his willingness to tackle the ULEZ issue head-on, presenting a clear and compelling argument against Labour's stance. His victory would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our incredible delivery networks and hardworking councillors and ward teams, who tirelessly canvassed week after week. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who played a part. With the momentum gained, I firmly believe that we have a real shot at winning the Barnet and Camden GLA seat and seeing Susan elected as Mayor!
Out and about in Barnet and Camden
75th Anniversary of Britain’s NHS
On 5 July, the NHS celebrated its 75th birthday. Camden marked the occasion with an exhibition, honouring the accomplishments and achievements of the NHS and its staff. Being a former nurse myself, this event held special significance for me. The exhibition was organised by various local organisations, including Camden Council, UCLH, the London Irish Centre, London Metropolitan University, Rankin Creative, and Outernet Creative. It showcased the diverse communities of Camden that play pivotal roles within the NHS and explored the complex themes of care and migration within the NHS. The compelling narratives presented in the exhibition were very powerful, and left visitors with a profound appreciation for the dedication displayed by healthcare professionals every day.
Kentish Town Farm
Kentish Town Farm has the distinction of being the UK's First City Farm, established back in 1972. As a local charity, it plays a vital role in fostering a connection between city-dwellers and the natural world, promoting interactions with animals and the environment. The farm holds a truly special place in my heart and visits there are filled with cherished memories of my son growing up combining moments of both solitude and happiness.
Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with the farm's manager, David Hastings. I learned about the farm's numerous community initiatives, including educational programs for schools, NHS coffee mornings, and collaborations with the local Caversham Group medical practice to facilitate social prescribing for individuals with mental health issues. We also discuss David's concerns regarding the horse paddocks at the farm. Unfortunately, the farm's horses are currently unable to return to their paddocks due to essential repair work being carried out to adjoining Network Rail property. I intend to reach out to both Camden Council and Network Rail, urging them to carry out the necessary works as quickly as possible and ensuring that the farm can continue its work in the community.
The London Irish Centre
Meeting CEO Seamus MacCormaic at the London Irish Centre on Camden Square was truly an engaging experience. The Centre has been a pillar of support for the Irish community since its establishment in 1954 and is a testament to the strong bond that is shared between the local Irish community and the city that it has made its home. Aside from preserving and celebrating Irish culture and heritage the Centre offers a range of community services, including legal advocacy services, hardship grants and digital inclusion programs. The O’Donovan library, Dinner Ladies café, and the Irish shop (stocked with a wonderful selection of Irish produce, including my personal favourites, Barry's teabags) add to the Centre's welcoming atmosphere.
Out campaigning with the team – Thank you!!!!
Business in Camden
Showcasing and supporting another fantastic business that has chosen Camden as its home, Philippe Conticini pastry chef has opened at 192-193 Camden High Street. I would highly recommend mouth-watering supreme mega croissants!
Hopscotch Women’s Centre
I had the pleasure of meeting with Lucie Gourdin, the head of homecare, who explained the two essential services that Hopscotch aims to provide. The first service caters to vulnerable adults in Camden, ranging from the elderly to the young, and embraces individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, as well as all walks of life. The second service focuses on providing support to domestic violence victims, with a special emphasis on empowering women. At the core of Hopscotch's vision lies the aspiration for a society where all women are empowered, connected, and safe, enabling them to reach their full potential. The dedication of their remarkable team and the invaluable impact of their work in our community are truly commendable.
Meeting Hocroft residents’ group
I was contacted by Hocroft residents’ association. TFL is closing off access to the estate from the northbound Finchley Road into Ardwick Road. Residents will have to drive further north and enter via Burgess Hill or take Hocroft Avenue off the busy Hendon Way. This is being imposed in the name of improving bus time tables and claims of health and safety. Once again overwhelming objections from residents have been ignored by TFL and the London Mayor! There will be increased congestion on alternative routes, disruption to local residents, diverting traffic through other residential areas not designed to handle high volumes of traffic.
Finchley Ladies’ Annual Summer Tea Party
It was great to be invited to the Finchley Ladies’ Annual Summer Tea Party and meet such a fantastic group of women, chat about politics and gossip about Barnet. A big thank you for having me and for making me feel very welcome and for the tasty home baked cakes.
Edgware Development
I met with MP Matthew Offord and Edgware Councillors at the Broadwalk centre. Many local residents are concerned with Ballymore’s regeneration plans and excessive overdevelopment and they worry about the impact in Edgware. We need to ensure that a reduction in size and scale of the proposed development is happening.
Finchley Foodbank
The Finchley Foodbank was founded in 2013 and is a charity of St Marys RC Church, East Finchley and other local churches and organisations. They provide approximately three days of emergency food for people living in financial hardship in Barnet. I met with Anne and Julie who were coordinating the teams and organising donations. I was very impressed by the dedicated team and the amount of fresh food and vegetables available. They are also growing their own vegetables. The cost-of-living crisis is putting a huge strain on Londoners. Foodbanks are struggling to cope with rising need amidst a fall in donations. The mayors fund for London needs to do more!
It's been a busy month! I'll continue to champion these causes over the coming months.
