Activities Timetable

Fortnightly Coffee Morning Forum 11.00am-12.30pm - Regent Hall, Welcome Hub, 275 Oxford Street, W1C 2DJ, near Oxford Circus Tube Station

Thursday 25th July – Guest Speaker Blessing Ogunoshun – The Advocacy Project – Healthwatch

Thursday 8th August - Author - Charlotte Osho, author of the ‘Jagged Path’

The Jagged Path tells the story of her life growing up in rural Nigeria, the tragic loss of her parents, her turbulent marriage, life in the UK as an NHS nurse, and, reconnection with her faith. It’s a book of adversity but also finding hope which many has found inspirational. 

Published in February of this year, The Jagged Path was well received, leading to interviews on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, Premier Christian Radio as well as featuring in The Voice and our local newspaper, The Waltham Forest Echo.

Thursday 22nd August – Guest Speaker to be arranged.  

Every Tuesday 1.00pm-2.00pm & 2.30pm-3.30pm - Age UK Westminster’s weekly FIT4LIFE levels 1 & 2 exercise programme at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, London W10 4JL  

With Sharon our Qualified Senior Years Fitness Class Instructor.  

Level 1 - 1.00pm-2.00pm - A chair to standing exercise class for those people who are less mobile. Combined movement helping to build strength and stronger bones, increase flexibility and balance. 

Level 2 - 2.30pm-3.30pm - An exercise class that caters for those who are more mobile. Providing exercise to increase fitness, to work muscles and encourage movement. 

Due to the end of funding in June we will be charging an attendance fee of £3.00 for Level 1 and for Level 2 as from 2nd July.

Please note that there will be no classes on the following dates 20th August & 29th October.

Every Wednesday 2.00pm-5.00pm Bridge Club at Mayfair Library, 25 South Audley Street, W1K 2PB 

If you are an experienced Bridge player and would like to join the group or have friends who would like to attend, please do join us. There is now an agreed attendance fee of £3.00 per session.   

Dance West at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, London W10 4JL 

Our partnership with Dance West continues with further dance sessions 11.00am-12.00pm:

Refreshments will be provided.

There will be a short break before the Autumn season classes and the restart of classes from Friday 27th September.

Fortnightly Tea and Chat afternoon 2.00pm-4.00pm at St Marylebone Parish Church, 17 Marylebone Road, NW1 5LT

Thursday 1st August – Guest Speaker Manmeet Rana - Turner, Müller, and their Contributions to Impressionism.

Fortnightly Coffee Morning 11.00am-12.30pm at Hotel 63, 63 Bayswater Road, London, W2 3PH

Monday 29th July – Social coffee morning

Monday 12th August – Ava Thomas - Sport for Confidence.

Monday 2nd September – Guest Speaker Chris Barlow - "From Aria to Zarzuela.

A wonderful new Coffee Morning venue which has an extremely interesting history.

Hotel 63 was built between 1865 and 1870 and for most of its first seven decades of existence, it was a private address. It was first known as 2 Marlborough Gate and amongst its residents, it housed the Royal Consul for Italy, his wife and son. It was renamed 63 Bayswater Road in 1938 as part of London County Council’s standardisation and clarification of street names in London.

The Hotel is close to The Swan Public House on Bayswater Road

Close to Lancaster Gate tube station (Central Line)

Buses 274, 94 &148

Thursday 25th July 1.00pm-3.00pm and every fortnight - Hope in the Community at the Gordon Hospital, Bloomburg Street, London, SW1V 2RH

Social afternoon providing activities and support. Refreshments provided. Come along and let us know what activities you would like to be organised in future.

Please contact Stephen Spavin to register and to find out future dates:

Email: stephen.spavin@ageukwestminster.org.uk

Tel: 07969 302517

Thursdays 1st August, 5th September & 3rd October 11.00am-12.30pm Age UK Westminster ‘Flaneur’ walk 

Flaneur, a word once used to describe a wander without purpose has gotten a new meaning. Walking, even just for few minutes has been shown as beneficial for one’s health and well- being. Therefore, polish your cane and join a group of flaneurs on a stroll through Regent’s Park.

We will meet at St. Andrew’s Gate – Regent’s Park Outer Circle, walk past the English gardens, continue to the Ready Money Drinking Fountain, and finish the walk at the Broad Walk Café.

Starting point:

St. Andrew’s Gate

Postcode:

NW1 4LB

Nearest Tube stations:

Great Portland Street

Regent’s Park 

Bus:

Euston Road Bus Stop (27, 30, 88, 453)

To register please contact: Tija Hubej - Fit4Life Coordinator

Tel: 07462 361232

Email: tija.hubej@ageukwestminster.org.uk

Friday 26th July 2.30pm – Cultural Walk with Chris Barlow - Serpentine Galleries North/South and Summer Pavilion

Enjoy another entertaining walk with Chris in Hyde Park.

Age UK Westminster Dementia Service for those residing in Westminster and diagnosed with early stages of memory loss:

Monday 19th August 11.00am-1.00pm – The monthly ‘Heart of Westminster’ Monthly Memory Café at Regent Hall, Welcome Hub, 275 Oxford Street, W1C 2DJ, near Oxford Circus Tube Station. 

Every Tuesday 2.30pm-4.00pm

Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST) workshop - face to face sessions for those residing in Westminster diagnosed with early-stage dementia. Our weekly group takes place at St Marylebone Parish Church, 17 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LT. Assessment before attendance, is needed.

Please contact the Dementia Service:

Email: dementia@ageukwestminster.org.uk

Or contact our enquiry line: 0203 004 5610

Friday 2nd August 4.00pm at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL – Summer Frolics – Limited tickets available

The Rah Rah Theatre Company presents ‘Summer Frolics’. The Theatre Company’s funniest show ever! Performed in the old style of ‘Holiday Camp’ entertainment, it revisits favourite songs from the past guaranteed to have the audience singing along in no time! This event is organised by A2 Dominion. Please call: 020 8825 1067 to book your place.

Saturday 3rd August 12.00pm-5.00pm - Queen’s Park Summer Festival - Queen's Park Gardens, Ilbert Street W10 4QJ

Organisations showcasing music classes, cooking sessions, dance, arts and crafts etc.

Monday 5th August 10.00am-12.30pm Boccia with Sport for Confidence at Lord’s Cricket Ground, St John’s Wood Road, London NW8 8QN – Enter by the North Gate

Limited spaces available. Accessibility access available.

Enjoy a morning of Boccia with lunch provided.

To register please contact Stephen Spavin:

Email: stephen.spavin@ageukwestminster.org.uk

Tel: 07969 302517

Thursday 15th August 12.00pm Kew Gardens group visit

We will meet at 12.00pm at the 'Victoria Gate' (TW9 3JR) entrance to Kew Gardens.

Unfortunately transport is not available and there will be quite a lot of walking so do bare this in mind.

Getting there: 

By Bus: Route 65 stops close to the Victoria Gate. This bus stops at Ealing Broadway and Richmond stations.

By Tube: Kew Gardens station is 500m from Victoria Gate. It is in Zone 3 and is served by the District Line (Richmond branch) and London Overground.

If you would like to register please contact Souad.

Monday 9th September 12.30pm-3.30pm Afternoon Tea provided by TikTok at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL

Enjoy another afternoon tea provided by TikTok

Monday 7th October 12.30pm-3.30pm – Silver Sunday Celebration at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL

To celebrate Silver Sunday 2024, we will be holding an afternoon tea and a ‘Get Up and Dance’ dancing event.

Enjoy a fun afternoon and your feet will be guaranteed to tap to the beat!

Monday 21st October 3.00pm-5.00pm – Royal Parks - Visit to the Hyde Park Learning Centre

Our first visit to the Royal Parks learning Centre. A member of the Royal Parks Tree Management team will deliver a presentation followed by a walk on Trees of Hyde Park.

Monday 28th October 12.30pm-3.30pm Celebrating ‘Black History Month’ Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, W10 4JL - Further details to follow

In the United Kingdom, Black History Month was first celebrated in October 1987.

People from African and Caribbean backgrounds have been a fundamental part of British history for centuries. However, campaigners believe their contribution to society has often been overlooked or distorted.

It gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture. 

This year’s theme for Black History Month is “Reclaiming Narratives,” and marks a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture.

By emphasising “Reclaiming Narratives,” we shine a brighter light on our stories, allegories, and history.

This theme underscores a commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage. It’s about taking control of our stories and honouring our heroes while challenging the narratives that have often overlooked the contributions and achievements of Black individuals both in the UK and globally.

Our aim is to celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history, to acknowledge and appreciate the myriad contributions of Black individuals throughout history.

If you would like to nominate an African or Caribbean that has influenced you or greater society (Politician/political activist, singer, actor, etc) please do let us know so that we can mention them in the day’s event.

If you have a story to tell or experiences to share regarding life in the UK we would find this of great interest.

Forthcoming Fit4Life exercise classes in Pimlico North, Residents Community Hall at the Lillington and Longmoore Estate, SW1V 2ED

Join our extremely successful Fit4Life exercise class with Sharon (Re-Energise) our qualified instructor.

Wednesdays 10.30am -11.30am as from 18th September with refreshments from 11.30am-12.30pm.

9th-13th October - Art Exhibition - All is Joy Gallery/Studios, 75 Dean St, London W1D 3PU

Let’s fill the city with artists! The OBA’s - WILL & TESTAMENT

We are delighted to announce that Age UK Westminster will be hosting an Art exhibition of our clients work in October to coincide with Frieze, the annual art Fair. 

We have secured gallery space in Soho, and we hope to attract visitors from all walks of life and all ages. We would like to invite all of you to submit work, whether you are an established artist, Sculptor, Designer or Photographer or an amateur. As well as more traditional figurative work we are especially interested to receive works reflecting how you may feel or other impressions of your life and in all mediums including film and sound. No matter how big or how small, if you want something you have created to be seen by a wider audience do submit an entry. If you have any questions, please contact: fiona@film-unit.co.uk 
We will need details of your work including measurements and a photograph by September 15th and then completed work by October 1st so get painting!!

Information and Advice Surgeries 

If you need Information and Advice, please contact our enquiry line on:  

020 3004 5610 to book an appointment 

We hold Information and Advice surgeries at the Salvation Army Regent Hall, Church Street Library and The Abbey Centre. These are by appointment only. Call: 020 3004 5610 to book an appointment. 

Post-discharge Support 

Age UK Westminster now offers a post-discharge support service for Westminster residents aged 55+. If you, or someone you know has recently been discharged from hospital, we can help support the transition back into home life.  

This includes services like: light shopping, assistance with prescriptions, helping with GP contact, and a regular friendly face visiting you at home. The service is free, and our Wellbeing & Connections Coordinator can help signpost you to other Age UK Westminster services as well as useful organisations in the borough. 

If you would like to find out more about our post-discharge support, please contact: Email: enquiries@ageukwestminster.org.uk   Tel: 020 3004 5610

NEW! Information & Advice with Age UK Westminster at Pimlico Health at the Marvern

Who these sessions are for:

• Pimlico Health @ The Marvern patients aged 50+ by appointment only - weekly on Thursday afternoons.

Booking your appointment:

• In person - with the Pimlico Health at The Marvern reception team • Tel - 0207 834 6969, Monday to Friday, 10.00am – 6.30pm

What Age UK Westminster can support with:

• Benefits - including Benefit checks, Pensions, Pension Credit, Disability

Living Allowance & Attendance Allowance applications

• Cost of Living concerns - including energy bills and budgeting and foodbank referrals and food pantry information, charitable grants to replace broken white goods
• Transport support - including guidance on Freedom Pass, Taxi Card, Dial a Ride and Blue Badge applications
• Housing - including guidance on housing transfers, Council Tax and Housing Benefit
• Smart Meters – information on what they are and the benefits
• Gambling Harm support on where to access support if you are experiencing gambling harm or are affected by someone’s gambling

This list is not exhaustive! Do ask if you are not sure and if we are not able to help you with a problem, we will do our best to signpost you to other organisations

Please note that the Age UK Westminster Advisor does not provide information or advice related to health and medical issues or medication.

WATES – support for Westminster residents

The WATES group as a part of their commitment to Westminster and support of Age UK Westminster are offering Westminster residents a variety of volunteering. This includes, garden clearance, litter picking, dog walking and potentially minor ‘DIY’ works such as putting up shelves. 

If you require any of the above and live in Westminster, please contact abbie.langridge@wates.co.uk with your request and availability for the volunteers to help.

Age UK Westminster and Westminster Connects (WCC) are collaborating to provide basic gardening to residents of Westminster with help from volunteers. 

This service provided by Westminster Connects (WCC) and their volunteers is for Westminster residents only and those residents who have mobility issues, are vulnerable and without the support of family/friends. You should have gardening tools available. If you have a garden and need basic assistance in its upkeep, please contact Stephen Spavin: 

Tel: 07969 302517 

Email: stephen.spavin@ageukwestminster.org.uk

Thursday 25th July 12.30pm-2.00pm JoJays Community Lunch Club at the Beethoven Centre, Third Avenue, London W10 4JL

All are welcome to join us for a healthy lunch.

Serving freshly made, healthy vegetarian and plant-based Indian-Caribbean fusion food. Takeaway options available.

First come first served.

£3.00 per meal including a FREE small bag of fruit

Enjoy tasty and delicious food.

Homemade cake & plant-based ice cream also available to buy

Free tea + coffee

Funded by Peabody Community Fund

iTea Parties - Digital Support sessions

Come and join us for our FREE Digital help sessions in a friendly social group with learning in mind. Bring along your own digital device (mobile phone, laptop, iPad/tablet) and receive one to one support from a committed volunteer. 

If you would like to attend any of the following, please contact  

Sarah Robinson. 

Tel: 07399 301938 or Email: sarah.robinson@ageukwestminster.org.uk 

Marylebone Library 

Thursdays –1st August - 1.30pm-3.30pm

9-11 New Cavendish Street, W1G 9UQ 

Church Street Library 

Wednesdays –14th August - 2.00pm-4.00pm

67 Church Street, NW8 8EU 

Paddington Library 

Tuesdays - 20th August - 11.00am-1.00pm  

Porchester Road, W2 5DU 

Mayfair Library 

Fridays - 26th July and 16th August - 2.00pm - 3.30pm  

25 South Audley Street, W1K 2PB 

Wednesday 24th July 2.00pm – 4.20pm Westminster Senior Citizens Forum

The Lord Mayor’s Reception Room, 19th Floor, Westminster City Hall, 64, Victoria Street, London SW1E 6QP

Guest Speakers:  

Vicky Hicks, Manager, BT/EE, Update the Digital Changeover and how you can receive support and guidance

The Digital Changeover will be finalized across the country by 2027, when the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be switched off, meaning technology that relies on it will no longer work. Some providers have already begun transitioning to the new system. This event will inform you about how the changeover may affect your phone line and what steps you need to take.

Theresa Orchard, LFB Soho Red Watch will talk about general home fire safety including charging and storage of electrical items, particularly e-bikes and scooters, that are now becoming commonplace in the home.

Refreshments and Raffle

Please feel free to invite your friends.  Annual Subscription is £5.00

24th July South Asian Heritage Month Bollywood Dance Sessions

WCC People Services are organising the following events as part of the South Asian 

Heritage Month celebration: 

Bollywood Dance Sessions on 24th July 2024 one at Lisson Grove (12.00pm-1.00pm) and one at City Hall Innovation Hub (2.30pm-3.30pm).

Come dance, connect, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of South Asia with us!

If you would like to attend, please register on the following Eventbrite link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/south-asian-heritage-month-bollywood-dance-sessions-tickets-935704817297?aff=oddtdtcreator

External Dementia services

Memory Café North Wednesday 31st July 2.30pm – 4.30pm
42 Westbourne Park Road, Bayswater, W2 5PH
Providing group-based support for people living with dementia and memory loss.
Call London Care Westminster on 020 7723 5425 or email: marco.sepe@candchealthcare.co.uk

Singing for the Mind Every Thursday, 2.00pm – 4.00pm (excluding public holidays)
The Liberal Jewish Synagogue, 28 St John’s Wood Road, NW8 7HA
Singing for the Mind is a stimulating, professionally-led, friendly and, above all, fun singing session for people with memory loss. Contact sfm@ljs.org or 020 7286 5181 to learn more and to register.

Video and Tea Wednesday 24th July 1.30pm – 4.30pm
The Liberal Jewish Synagogue, 28 St John’s Wood Road, NW8 7HA
Watch a screening of the film ‘Meet Me in St Louis’ followed by a delicious tea and ice-cream. No need to book, tickets £2 on the day. Wheelchair accessible. Call: 020 7286 5181.

Reminiscence Session Tuesday 30th July 1.30pm – 3.00pm Friendly chat and refreshments. Music Session July date & time to be confirmed Free music session with opera singer Maciek O’Shea – a mix of pop, folk & opera! To book, call: 020 7616 8604 / john.donegan@mcc.org.uk

Mondays 10.00am 22nd & 29th July and 10.00am Wednesday 31st July – ‘Tea O’Clock’ with Jane at the Cave Pimlico, 81 Tachbrook Street Pimlico SW1V 2QP

Tea and Coffee mornings

Welcome to Cave, a niche and quirky place in the heart of Pimlico!

The day to day running of cave comprises of a vintage shop with workshop, pop-up food wagon and gallery space.

The Revellers Club - FREE monthly creative workshops at Royal Albert Hall

For: People living with dementia and their carers.

When: Monthly, 10.30am-12.15pm

What: The Revellers Club welcomes people living with dementia and their carers to take part in creative activities in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment. Taking inspiration from the Hall’s eclectic and vibrant history, mischief and merrymaking will be encouraged! We welcome family members, partners, carers or friends to come along and join in! All session will follow current Dementia Friendly guidance to ensure they are accessible and welcoming for participants.

2024 Workshop Dates:

• Thursday 1st August
• Thursday 5th September
• Thursday 10th October
• Thursday 7th November
• Thursday 12th December

If you would like to attend, please email Perdie on perditab@royalalberthall.com

Knit with Us, New Acre Café, Westminster Chapel, Buckingham Gate, SW1E 6BS

A new knitting group is starting at New Acre Cafe in Buckingham Gate. 

It will be held on Mondays from 1.30pm. There is no charge to join the group and the cafe offers a discount to the knitting group members buying drinks.

• Beginners welcome
• Bring your own project or learn to knit with us
• No booking needed

The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

£1 tickets to visit The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography

As part of our charitable aim to ensure that as many people as possible can access and enjoy the Collection, Royal Collection Trust has launched a new £1 tickets for exhibitions at The King’s Galleries in 2024, available to those receiving Universal Credit and other named benefits.

Book now to see Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace. The exhibition charts the evolution of royal portrait photography from the 1920s to the present day, bringing together more than 150 photographic prints, proofs and documents from the Royal Collection and the Royal Archives. The photographs presented in the exhibition are vintage prints – the original works produced by the photographer, most of which have never been on public display.

£1 tickets are available to anyone in receipt of the following:

•  Universal Credit
•  Working Tax Credit
•  Child Tax Credit
•  Pension Credit
•  Employment and Support Allowance
•  Income Support
•  Jobseeker’s Allowance

You can claim £1 tickets for up to six people per household. Only one person per household needs to show supporting documents.

Tickets can be booked by calling 0303 123 7301

London Centre National Trust Supporters’ Group

We are a National Trust supporters’ group serving the whole of London, with around 180 members. Many, but not all of us, are senior citizens.  We run an interesting and varied programme of visits and tours of museums, galleries, stately homes, livery halls, fine private houses and even cemeteries in and around London and the home counties as well as a schedule of fortnightly rambles. Details of what’s on offer are circulated to members in our newsletters, produced three times a year.  Besides giving our members, the opportunity to make friends and enjoy themselves, we donate surplus funds to projects at National Trust properties. However, you don’t have to be a member of the National Trust to join us.  If you are interested, please contact our Membership Secretary by phone (020 8742 2355) or by email (ntlondoncentre@outlook.com) for a membership form and details of the current programme. 

Community Zooms from the Royal Collection Trust

Community Zoom talks run as part of our Inclusion Programme, which aims to make the Official Residences of The King and Royal Collection as accessible as possible to visitors with disabilities, and those who wouldn’t normally visit. We work with Community partners who support under-represented, disadvantaged and disabled people.

Our programme of Zoom talks is for people who cannot easily visit the Official Residences of The King. Talks take place on the first Wednesday of the month, from 2.00pm. Join us to hear about the different works in the Royal Collection and the history of the Monarchy. Talks are free and informal, and you can participate camera on or off.

Wednesday 7th August - Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 4th September - Paintings at Hampton Court Palace

Wednesday 2nd October - Royal Fashion

Wednesday 6th November - Drawings in the Royal Collection

Wednesday 4th December - A History of Performance at Windsor Castle

Join Zoom Meeting – camera on or off:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4407732986

Meeting ID: 440 773 2986

London Zoo

Tea and Talk (Free event)
A Monthly activity for older people (60+) at risk of isolation

Held in our brand-new Community Space on the 2nd Tuesday of each month (from March – December).

From 10.30am-12.30pm

There will be a different activity each month, which may include making enrichment for our animals, a quiz or arts and crafts activities. Each session you will also get an opportunity to meet a member of our team such as a keeper, scientist, or librarian.

Tea, Coffee, and Biscuits will be provided.

Please call 07966 294 022 or email: communityengagement@zsl.org to book a space. More information will be sent out after your booking is confirmed.

FREE Concerts at Regent Hall Concert Hall, 275 Oxford Street, W1C 2DJ, near Oxford Circus Tube Station

26th July 1.00pm - Jung Eun Serverine Kim - Beethoven - Sonata in C minor Op 10 no 1 & Schubert - Sonata in C minor D958
2nd August 1.00pm - Dobromir Tsenov - Beethoven, Lyubomir Pipkov & Liszt
9th August 1.00pm - Ophelia Gordon - Beethoven, Ravel & Kapustin
16th August 1.00pm - Royal Academy of Music presents “Sounds of Ukraine”

A tri-venue festival supporting Ukrainian students in London
23rd August 1.00pm - Aureus Trio - Haydn - Piano Trio No39 in G Major ‘Gypsy’
Brahms -Piano Trio No1 in B Major Op 8

30th August 1.00pm - Diana Gordienko piano & friends

In-Deep

Over 50's Latin Moves Class

Every Wednesday with qualified instructor!

Time: 10:30am-11:30am

Location: Grosvenor Hall.

Vincent St, SW1P 4HB

Come ready to move, groove, and embrace the joy of

dance in our new free weekly dance

classes! No prior experience required.

For more information or to book your place

please call 07761 263 105 or email

emma.chapman@in-deep.org.uk

Healthwatch

Healthwatch Westminster offers confidential support and free information about NHS health and social care services to help you understand your options and obtain the help you require. We assist with the following questions, issues, and areas: accessing adult social care, filing a complaint with a GP practice or hospital, referring to advocacy services, registering and deregistering from a GP, and informing you of your rights under the NHS Constitution to help you make informed decisions. We are based at the Stowe Centre, 258 Harrow Road W2 5ES, and are in the office every Wednesday from 10:00am to 16:00pm. Alternatively, you can reach out to us by phoning us at 0208 106 1480, or by email at info@healthwatchwestminster.org.uk

Handyperson Service - Westminster Council

Westminster residents aged over 60, or in receipt of disability benefit, can request free help from a handyperson. The service covers minor works to a home such as replacing light bulbs and other small DIY jobs. It does not cover gardening, plumbing or decorating, and it is not an emergency service, however they are able to support people with essential jobs.

Phone number: 020 7641 8959 Email: hia@westminster.gov.uk

Online referral form: https://www.westminster.gov.uk/handyperson

Westminster Talking Therapies

What is Westminster Talking Therapies?

Westminster Talking Therapies is a free and confidential NHS service that supports those with mental health difficulties including stress, low mood, anxiety, and more. You can access Westminster Talking Therapies if you are over the age of 16 and live, work, or have a GP in the borough of Westminster.

What support do you offer?

We provide individual or group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and individual Counselling. We also work closely with other organisations within Westminster and can signpost you where appropriate. Please see the table below for more information on what we offer.

Low intensity CBT	High intensity CBT	Counselling
·      One-to-one sessions with a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) ·      30-minute sessions ·      Treatment typically lasts between 4 and 6 weeks ·      Guided self-help: you are supported by a PWP to understand your difficulties and use self-help materials.	·      One-to-one sessions with a CBT Therapist ·      50-minute sessions ·      Treatment typically lasts between 8 and 12 weeks ·      A CBT Therapist supports those experiencing more complicated difficulties to understand the patterns of thoughts and behaviours that can keep them stuck.	·      One-to-one sessions with a Counsellor ·      50-minute sessions ·      Treatment typically lasts between 8 and 12 weeks ·      Counselling offers more of an exploratory approach and a space to discuss your feelings, relationships, similar situations.
Group Courses
·      We offer both low intensity and high intensity groups delivered by PWPs or CBT Therapists ·      Courses can last between 4 and 12 weeks ·      Sessions are typically 90 minutes ·      You can meet other people who are experiencing similar difficulties ·      You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable ·      Groups take place online and face-to-face ·      Some of our groups include: Mood Boost, Stress & Worry, How to Feel Good About Yourself, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, Recovering from Depression, Walking Group.

What is CBT?

CBT is a present focused talking therapy which is based on the idea that how you think, feel, and act are connected. With a therapist, you can untangle unhelpful patterns of thoughts and behaviours which can keep problems going.

How is therapy delivered?

Therapy is provided over the phone, online via video call, or face-to-face at one of our offices. You will be asked at assessment which modality you prefer.

If English is not your first language, you will have access to an interpreter.

How can I access Westminster Talking Therapies?

You can self-refer by filling out the form on our website

https://talkingtherapies.cnwl.nhs.uk/westminster or scanning the QR code.

Alternatively, you can give us a call on:

030 3333 0000 or send us an email at

Westminster.iapt@nhs.net.

You can also get a referral through your GP.

Where are we based?

Our offices are at two locations in Westminster:

North Hub: 11 Praed Street, W2 1NJ

South Hub: 190 Vauxhall Bridge Road, SW1V 1DX

Age UK National Loneliness Christmas Campaign

The Campaign will focus on the critical issues of loneliness and isolation. The aim is to highlight the profound impact Age UK services have on older people across the country.

With the whole charity sector currently facing a very difficult financial environment, we want this year’s campaign to be better than ever! We’re specifically looking to feature local Age UK service users with strong, impactful stories who are happy to share their experiences of loneliness and how Age UK has helped them.

Older People with Compelling Stories of Loneliness and Isolation

• We need individuals who have deeply felt the effects of loneliness or isolation and can speak honestly about their experiences.
• It is crucial that they can also articulate how their Age UK Westminster has supported them, especially through befriending services or social activities.
• Stories about loneliness during the festive period are particularly impactful, as that time of year can be especially challenging. We are eager to include voices from diverse backgroundIf you would be interested in being involved in the Campaign and have a story to tell about the way you have been affected by loneliness and isolation and the help Age UK were able to provide, please contact Stephen Spavin for further details:

Email: stephen.spavin@ageukwestmnster.org.uk

Tel: 07969 302517

Free Wills Month – October 2024

Age UK have partnered with Free Wills Month to give our supporters the opportunity to have a simple will written or updated for free.

When is Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month takes place in March and October every year, and it will be returning in October 2024.

What is Free Wills Month?

Age UK supporters who are 55 or over can have a simple will written or updated free of charge by a participating solicitor.

If you choose to write your will through Free Wills Month we hope you'll consider leaving a gift in your will to Age UK, although there's no obligation to do so.

What areas participate in Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month takes part in selected locations across England, Scotland and Wales.

Exact locations will be confirmed closer to the time. Contacting Free Wills Month directly is always the best way to find your local participating solicitor.

Please follow the link for further information:

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/leave-legacy/free-wills-month/

Asthma and Lung Conditions

Asthma + Lung UK’s Westminster Support Group for respiratory conditions

https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/

helpline@asthmaandlung.org.uk

0737 8606728 for questions on asthma.

Westminster Breathe Easy support group

Contact Tess Jelen:

Email; t.jelen@btinternet.com

or text: 0794 6514380

We support people with respiratory conditions, their friends, family and carers, helping with information and companionship.

A 4-page printed newsletter is for non-digital members. But if you use email, why not receive the full multi-page newsletter direct to your in-box by registering with www.breatheasywestminster.com to become a free member with regular updates and information.

Smart Meters

When it comes to energy, a SMART METER can make things easier in lots of ways.

SMART METERS EXPLAINED

Smart meters are being installed by energy suppliers. More than half of homes in Great Britain already have a smart meter and every home will be offered the opportunity to upgrade to a smart meter before the end of the rollout. These will replace the traditional meters in your home.

WHAT IS A SMART METER?

A smart meter is the next generation of a gas and electricity meter. Smart meters measure how much gas and electricity you’re using, as well as what it’s costing you in near real-time on a handy smart meter display.

HOW DO THEY WORK?

With a smart meter you can wave goodbye to estimated billing. The smart meter shows a digital meter reading and uses a secure smart data network (managed by the DCC) to automatically and wirelessly send the readings to your energy supplier at least once a month. That means you shouldn’t need to check the meter anymore. You’ll also get more accurate bills based on the energy you’ve actually used, not an estimate. 

WHY SHOULD I GET A SMART METER?

Smart meters can help put you in control by tracking what you’re spending on energy. That could help you budget for your energy bills and show you where you could take small steps to reduce your energy use. 

According to Delta-ee, an energy research company, making small steps in your home could save customers over £50, or £100+ in households with medium to high energy consumption.

Information from smart meters can also help create a more efficient energy system that makes use of more renewable sources such as wind and solar power, reducing our reliance on expensive fossil fuels and gas imported from abroad. 

If you would like further information, please contact Age UK Westminster:
Enquiries: Tel: 020 3004 5610 Email: enquiries@acwestminster.org.uk

How to protect yourself from fraud!

1. Know the fraud signs: Common tactics can include impersonating an authority or ‘trusted’ voice or using language that evokes powerful emotions such as fear or even hope, promising you great financial gains if you ‘act now’.
2. Protect yourself: While you can’t stop a criminal attempting to defraud you, you can make yourself a harder target. If you feel at risk, break contact by closing a text, email or conversation. You could also try changing your online passwords.
3. Report it: If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, you should always report it. If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland and have been defrauded report it to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, all reports of fraud should be reported to Police Scotland by calling 101.
4. Don’t be afraid to seek help: If you’ve been affected by fraud, remember support is available. It’s important that we all feel empowered to ask for help when we are a victim of fraud, as it’s by calling it out that we ultimately take back control.

Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024

Age UK Westminster are participating in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024, the UK’s largest match funding campaign. This year, we are focusing our efforts on raising funds for our Digital Inclusion project, an initiative dedicated to providing older adults with the skills and resources they need to navigate the digital world confidently.

As you may know, digital inclusion is crucial in today’s society, particularly for older adults who may face barriers to accessing essential services, staying connected with loved ones, and engaging in community activities. Your support can help us bridge this digital divide, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, can fully participate in the digital age.

An important part of the campaign process is to encourage our supporters to make promises of funding, called ‘Pledges’, which will be used as match funds to double online donations made to our charity during the campaign. Their commitment to funding might also help us to secure additional match funds via a Champion funder (which is sourced by the Big Give).

We are aiming to raise a total of £4,850 in pledges by 30th August 2024 to take part in the campaign. 

To support the Christmas Challenge please complete the following online form before the deadline:

https://community.biggive.org/s/pledge?campaignId=a056900002TPSSDAA5

What is the Christmas Challenge?

The Christmas Challenge is the UK’s biggest match-funded campaign.

For seven days, the challenge offers supporters of participating charities the opportunity to double their donations. And in doing so, make an extraordinary difference to the world’s biggest challenges.

It’s a simple idea. When the public donates to a charity through a Big Give campaign, we ask funders (philanthropists, foundations, or corporates) to match that donation. So, £50 from a member of the public, becomes £100 for a good cause. One donation, twice the impact!

How does it work?

• The matching pots used to double donations for charities taking part in theChristmas Challenge are made up of a combination of funds. These are funds sourced by the charity (‘Pledges’) and funds sourced by the Big Give (‘Champions’), which are available if we are successfully selected by a Champion. 
• The timeline for fulfilling thepledge (i.e., transferring the funds to us) is 00pm, 30th August 2024.
• The fulfilment of yourpledge is conditional on us receiving the appropriate online donations during the campaign. You will only be required to pay a pro-rata amount of your pledge if we don’t hit our online target - it's our guarantee to you that we are committed to raising additional donations.
• Please note that if youpledge to Age UK Westminster, you will not be able to make an online donation to us in December because your pledge will be used to match these donations.