your sherwood april 2013

YOURSHERWOODNEWSLETTER APRIL 2013

RegenerationPlanning application

for phases two

and three submitted

pages 4-6

LoveSherwood?

Love Where We Live

2013 awards

page 10

Collectiveswitching

Get a better engery deal

pages 12-13

A trip to remember

One resident’s account

of a visit to Israel

pages 16-17

YOUR SHERWOOD APRIL 20132

Sherwood Community Market and Bootfair

Local products, hand-made items, face painting and computer advice are just a few of the treats on offer at the new Sherwood Community Market and Bootfair.

The event launched on Saturday 13 April and takes place every other Saturday from 11am to 4pm. The next one will be on Saturday 11 May.

All funds raised go to the TN2 Community Centre and food and drinks are available, so come along and support your local community.

find out more... by going to www.facebook.com and searching ‘Lakewood Community Market’ and joining the Facebook group.

welcome...

...to the April 2013

edition of Your

Sherwood.

As well as welcoming Spring, this month has

seen the introduction of the ‘bedroom tax’. This and other changes to the welfare system that are set to follow will no doubt affect a number of Sherwood residents. In this issue of Your Sherwood there’s a piece offering advice on how to cope with these changes.

You can also read some great first hand stories from Sherwood residents. One tells of a pilgrimage to Israel, and the other of being part of the Winter Shelter programme and the difference it made to some people’s lives.

As ever, there’s the regular update on the regeneration of Sherwood and what has been happening at the Lake and Woods as well as much, much more. Enjoy your read.

We are always looking for your ideas for articles. So if you do have any suggestions please get in touch by emailing [email protected] or calling me on 01892 501446.

Steve Mandaluff Your Sherwood Editor

News bites

Overgrown garden cleared to become communal space!An overgrown garden in Sherwood has been cleared by Town & Country, Moat Housing and Kent High Weald Partnership and is now set to become a small community woodland area that can be enjoyed by all!

The garden, where Sandhurst Road meets Oak Road, was covered by brambles and on a steep slope. The residents at the property were happy for the land to become a communal space that can be enjoyed by all. There’s more to be done and a planting day is planned, but the hard work of clearing the land is done!

A number of other sites have been earmarked so that similar environmental improvements can be made to them. In Your Sherwood we’ll update you on progress.

If you know of any other ‘grotspots’ in the area please let us know by calling 01892 501446 or emailing [email protected]

In memory ofDoreen SmithDoreen Smith, a much valued and loved member of the local community, passed away on 20 January. She was 79 years old.Doreen was actively involved in many Sherwood activities and was a trustee of the Leisure Group which she also spent the last 15 years running. A bench has been placed on the balcony at TN2 Community Centre in her memory.Doreen made a difference to the lives of many people and will be sorely missed by all.

d activities and was a

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 9am to 5pm

Wednesday: 9am to 5pm

Thursday: Closed

Friday: 9am to 5pm

Saturday: 10am to 2pm

Sunday: Closed

TN2 Library opening times

APRIL 2013 YOUR SHERWOOD 3

Pay a visit to Pepenbury!Looking for something to do as the weather gets warmer? Pepenbury offers a variety of exciting events over the coming months.

Pepenbury is a charity that provides residential homes, day services and support for people living independently in the community. Nestled in 100 acres of unspoilt High Weald countryside

just outside Tunbridge Wells, its 26 acres of ancient woodland, hay meadows, ponds and a small fruit orchard make an idyllic setting and a haven for wildlife.

As well as managing the woodlands, Pepenbury also run a small farm where the residents care for animals including donkeys, pigs, goats, chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs. There is also a plant nursery, where you can buy reasonably priced plants and organically grown fruit and vegetables, together with a coffee shop where you can enjoy a drink, home made cake, sandwich or even a hot meal.

Their special events taking place this spring include:

April Active April Challenge Events Join in with active events including White Water Rafting, South Downs Walk & Sky Dive!

May Plant Sales start

May 18 Classical Concert at St Paul’s Church, Rusthall

June 10 Golf Day at Woodlands Manor Golf Course in West Kingsdown

To find out more... contact Lee Pegrum on 01892 822168 or email [email protected]. Alternatively visit www.pepenbury.info

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Literacy skills start youngJoin in a fun way to help your baby or toddler develop a love of language. Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions are for children under 3 years old, their parents and carers and take place at Sherwood Library every Tuesday from 10am to 10.30am.

These sessions are popular and can get a bit noisy, but they’re a great way to develop literacy skills in young children – and they’re free! Each session lasts about 20 minutes and includes the opportunity to join in with nursery rhymes and action songs.

Anyone is welcome to attend – but these popular sessions can get busy!

To find out more... just drop into the library or call 01892 537639

Are you raising a child for a relative or friend?The Kinship Carers Support Group provides help for those raising children who are not their own where the real parents cannot do so for themselves.

The group meets at Little Forest Children’s Centre on the third Wednesday of each month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm for a chat and support from others in similar situations.

Many of the carers are raising very vulnerable children and young people and have often stepped in to prevent their grandchildren, nephews, nieces, sisters and brothers from going into the care system.

find out more... please contact Stephanie Salter, Kent County Council Early Intervention Worker, by calling 01892 515045 or 07825 380113 or emailing [email protected]. Or you can get in touch with Little Forest Children’s Centre on 01892 532319.

Tunbridge Wells FC reach Wembley!Of 544 clubs accepted into this year’s FA Vase competition, Tunbridge Wells FC have made it to the last two and, as a result, will be contesting this year’s final at Wembley against Spennymoor FC!

The final is at 3pm on 4 May. For ticket information call 0844 980 0656 or visit www.thefa.com/tickets

Weight For It!A brand new weight loss group for adults with a body mass index of 28 or over has just launched. Sessions are delivered by qualified nutrionists at St Philip’s Church, Main Hall, Birken Road. Mondays (started 22 April) for ten weeks from 1pm to 2.30pm.

Sessions are free but booking is essential. Contact Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on 01892 554411 or email [email protected] for more information.

Enjoy a carnival atmosphere!Join in the fun at this year’s Sherwood Carnival on Saturday 1 June at TN2. Running from 1pm to 4pm, there will be lots on offer including:

The Juma Steel Band Sherwood Community Market Kids and Kaboodle nearly new sale Tombolas, raffles and community groups

The theme for this year’s Carnival is sci-fi and there will be entertainment from Titan the Robot!


The programme to regenerate Sherwood is now well and truly underway, with the planning application for phases two and three of the project having been recently submitted.

Financially the main investment will be building the homes themselves. Approximately £8million is earmarked to be spent on the new homes for Lakewood phase one, the former Kemble Close site, and around £16million on the new homes and shops for phases two and three.

However the regeneration project is about much more than simply building houses. Substantial investment has been made elsewhere in Sherwood, including:

£130,000 to be spent on the woods, repairing the dam and carrying out maintenance and improvements

£50,000 in educational contributions£50,000 investment into Oak Road cycle path

and facilities£13,644 Library sum. In normal instances this sum

would go to libraries in the Tunbridge Wells area as a whole. However we have negotiated for it to go directly to the library located within TN2 Community Centre.

£10,000 for an ecology survey£6,200 on works to verges of Greggs Wood Road

and Liptraps Lane£4,084 towards adult social services£2,310 as a community learning sum£1,143 Youth Services Sum

Investing money in so many different areas should have a long lasting effect for the area as Colin Lissenden, Town & Country Housing Group’s Development Director, explains:

Phases two and three – plans submittedThe planning application for phases two and three of the redevelopment of Sherwood has recently been submitted. Phases two and three include 120 new homes at Silwood Close including 41 homes for older people, the possible relocation of the shops, a neighbourhood park and community square.

The application was shaped by all those residents who came to the consultation events which ran at the end of last year and start of this year. Thank you to all of you who attended. If the application is approved the plan is to start working on phases two and three later this year. You can see the application on TWBC’s website www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk, planning application reference TW/13/00684.

Phase one is the building of 63 new homes at the former site

‘This project is more than just about

building new houses. It is about

revitalising the area and unlocking

the estate’s potential, promoting local

employment initiatives, improving the leisure

and retail opportunities, developing a culture of

social enterprise, addressing the health

inequalities by increasing choice and upgrading

public amenities.’

An investment in more than bricks and mortar

Sherwood regeneration


of Kemble Close which is now underway. We hope to have the first homes ready to move into by Spring next year.

A planning application for the garage site between Burslem Road and Greggs Wood Road is due to submitted around the end of June this year. The site suffers from serious anti-social behaviour, a problem which has been raised by residents at consultation events and through complaints received by Town & Country.

The plans are to redevelop the land to provide new homes and secure allotments, which should deal with the anti-social behaviour. From consultations carried out with the affected residents, this was the most popular option.

Colin Lissenden, Town & Country’s Development Director, is positive about the plans for phases two and three of the redevelopment:

Sherwood Lake and Woods will also see some changes over the coming months as work begins to improve access around the site and improvements for wildlife begin to be made. Kent High Weald Partnership will be overseeing the work, which has also been decided through consultation with the local community.

‘We’ve had a really positive reaction at

the consultation events and always a

great turn out. It has been said many

times, but I am always struck by the

great community feeling here and how much

people care about Sherwood and the local area.

We are determined to continue working with

you all to make this the best possible place to

live and to give you the Sherwood you want.’

Sh d L k d W d ill l h

n...


How residents have been involved throughoutThere have been many consultations with residents on phases two and three of the redevelopment, including:

Date Event held

6 Oct 2012 Public consultation event at TN2This was a chance to meet the designers, PRP, and Town & Country staff to discuss what phases two and three would include and what residents would like to see

20 Oct 2012 Young people’s event at TN2 - Be the designer! Younger people were asked about the plans for the Neighbourhood Park and given the chance to design the park using an interactive model

2 Nov 2012 Older people’s trip to Simmonds Court, Rusthall. Older residents visited Simmonds Court, a high quality sheltered scheme in Rusthall to consider the new homes available for older people as part of the redevelopment

1 Dec 2012 Public Consultation event at TN2An opportunity to review the design developed following feedback from earlier events

26 Jan 2013 Public Exhibition at TN2The final proposals were on display

The planned scheduleThere is such a lot planned for Sherwood over the coming years – below is a quick overview of what you can expect to see happening and when.

When What

Mid June 2013

Decision expected on the planning application for phases two and three

Late 2013 Start working on phases two and three

Sept 2013 Phase one show home ready

Oct 2013 First homes ready to move into at Phase one

May 2014 Phase one complete

Spring 2015 Homes ready for people to move into at Silwood Close. Phases two and three complete

Sherwood regeneration update, continued


Sherwood’s flourishing home-grown enterpriseOver the past few months, a local business has been gaining momentum and gradually growing. Domonic Edwards, Director of Green Team Enterprises Ltd, explains how the new company benefits the local community

Green Team Enterprises (GTE) Ltd was formed in April 2012 and began trading in November of that year. We started by employing two part-time members of staff to deliver a cleaning service to Town & Country Housing Group and the local community.

Within four months we had three contracts with Hill Partnerships cleaning sites around Tunbridge Wells and we now deliver a range of other services as well. These include removals, clearance, fencing and painting, and we are also involved in ground works and landscape construction.

From just two part-time employees at the outset we have grown to a team that includes a director, two supervisors, two operatives, two temps, two sub-contractors and one administrator. We strongly believe that our success is due to local people working for local people – all our staff are Sherwood based. And we go that little bit further for our community.

In the past few months we have seen a positive change to the communal areas in Sherwood and have had plenty of great feedback from local people. They seem especially excited that the services we offer are being delivered by people they know and trust, and of course we have also created ten jobs for local people!

We are very excited about the future for GTE Ltd. We have had great support from Town & Country and this, along with the hard work of

In an exciting new initiative, a ‘dating agency’ for gardens has been launched by Town & Country Foundation – the charitable arm of Town & Country Housing Group – to bring together frustrated gardeners and unused gardens. ‘Growing Together – Garden Share’ matches and introduces committed and enthusiastic gardeners with local garden owners who want to see their gardens being used more productively.

It aims to give people interested in gardening the opportunity to cultivate a piece of land without having to spend years on a waiting list for an allotment, and garden owners the pleasure of seeing a developing garden plot instead of a scruffy garden. Both grower and gardener will receive a share of the produce and the sense of community from being part of a sharing initiative.

Jackie Sumner, Head of Community Investment for Town & Country Housing Group, says: ‘We know there are a lot of

people who love gardening but can’t as their gardens are

too small, or they don’t have a garden at all. Likewise some

people, especially older residents, have gardens they once

could maintain, but now they struggle with.’

Mary Nightingale, a local garden designer who is part of the Growing Together – Garden Share initiative, adds: ‘Make

the most of this fantastic opportunity to grow your own. It

is good exercise out in the fresh air and who doesn’t enjoy

delicious, fresh picked salads, fruit and veg? At the same

time you will be helping someone to make the most of their

land. We can also help with advice on what and how to grow

so you don’t need to be experienced.’

If you are interested, contact Town & Country Foundation to find out more. Call 01892 501480 or email [email protected]. Or visit www.tchg.org.uk to complete an online form to register your interest.

‘Dating Agency’ for gardens launches

Local jobs for local people

find out more... 01892 2314798 07854 016080 [email protected] www.greenteamenterprises.co.uk

the community, means I can really see what began as a modest pipedream becoming a fantastic success in West Kent and beyond.

First apprentice in place!The first apprentice, in bricklaying, has already started on site as part as phase one of the regeneration of Sherwood. A carpentry apprentice is also due to start very soon.

At the time of going to print a number of further apprenticeship opportunities were being recruited. The trades for these positions being mechanical, electrical and a dryliner. We are also hoping to recruit a painter and decorator in June and a business administration apprentice in July.

Hill Partnerships are working with REDS10 to offer jobs for local people on the Sherwood regeneration programme.

If you want to find out more about the opportunities available get in touch with REDS10 by emailing [email protected], calling 020 8545 8087 or visiting www.reds10.com.

In addition to the apprentices we are looking to appoint a Resident Liaison Officer to work on the project as well.


This is what you told them...

We love the community days, and activities

for young people, but you need to improve

the access into and around the site.

and this is what they are doing...

Providing a packed programme of events and activities KHWP has put together a programme of events and activities that will run until the end of October. Join in on one, some or all of the following! Everything is free, and everyone is welcome.

Forest Activity WalksEvery Thursday since 18 April KHWP has been leading a series of walks around the lake and woods, followed by natural arts and crafts for all ages and abilities at the TN2 Centre. Here is a taste of what is on offer:

Tune into nature on a short guided walk, then weave a simple willow bird feeder to take home.

Thursday 16 May, 10am to 12pm

Find the signs of some of Sherwood’s fluffier residents as we track our way through the woods.

Thursday 2 May, 6 June & 5 Sept, 10am to 12pm

Enjoy the summer hum of wildlife busily making their way through the wood.

Thursday 20 June, 10am to 12pm

Practical ActionIf you’d enjoy something a little more physical, then the programme of practical action may be for you. This programme of activities will include building steps and boarding along the lakesides, as well as other construction and woodland management tasks. You will be provided with all the tools and training you will need, as well as boots and waterproofs.

Come along and get fit, learn new skills, and make a real difference in your local community. Days run from 10am to 3pm, with regular breaks for tea. Meet outside the front of the TN2 Centre to take part in:

Path drainage, step and revetment construction, and path-side clearance works.

Saturday 4 May & Thursday 23 May, 10am to 3pm

To find out what people want to see happening at Sherwood Lake and Woods in the future, Kent High Weald Partnership (KHWP) ran a series of workshops and drop-in sessions as well as educational visits to Forest School from October to December last year.

It’s all happening...


Coppicing, scrub clearance, and creating better areas for wildlife.

Wednesday 11 September, Saturday 20 September & Thursday 10 October, 10am to 3pm

Caring for the environment As caretaker managers of Sherwood Lake and Woods for the coming year, Kent High Weald Partnership is starting to tackle some of the lake and wood’s bigger problems.

Water quality is a big concern.

Sort out Smelly Gap!

With the lake level now lower following dam safety works, improving conditions for wildlife has never been more important. KHWP is working with the Environment Agency, FoSL and a local fisheries contractor to find a way to remove silt from the lake and safely take it away from the site. They are also continuing to keep an eye on water flowing into the lake, and press for action any time that water turns foul.

Other ways to improve water quality include planting new vegetation around the lake’s edges, and possibly creating a new, floating island. These are ideas that KHWP will follow up over the coming year. Watch this space!

Encouraging learning about SherwoodKHWP’s Forest Schools programme is already regularly helping children from Temple Grove Academy to experience, enjoy and learn about the lake and woods. But how do you find out about the lake and woods if you’re not one of these children?

KHWP has invited a well-respected woodland archaeologist to study the history and landforms of Sherwood Lake and Woods. This work, which is grant funded by KCC’s Members Fund and the High Weald AONB Sustainable Development Fund, will open up new opportunities to learn about the site, and to find out about its fascinating past.

A woodland open day will be held during the Summer to share the findings, and invite you to get involved in mapping and tracking down Sherwood’s hidden history. More details about this will be published as they become available.

The water level at Sherwood LakeThere has been concern about the water level at the lake. This was lowered to a safe and sustainable level, recommended by specialist engineers, to allow essential repairs to the dam to be carried out.

Now the dam repairs have been completed action is being taken to increase the water level once again. Plans are in place to raise it by 100mm and maintain this level. This means it will be 60mm above the water level of the lake in February 2012.

Grant funding is also being sought to carry out a range of other works to improve the lake and water quality. Both of these measures will be of great benefit to fish and wildlife.


The Love Where We Live awards are open, and now is the time to reflect on the people who help make Sherwood such a great community in which to live! Whether it is an individual, organisation or a group of people, this is a great opportunity to recognise their hard work and commitment.

Awards are given in a variety of categories and you can nominate individuals, groups or organisations for more than one category.

The Love Where We Live Awards are being run by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC). Winners will be chosen by an independent judging panel and invited to an awards ceremony on the evening of Wednesday 2 October, when they will be presented with a trophy and receive a prize.

The awards categories for 2013Lifetime AchievementIndividual Hero Award Inspired by Val Joy

Sports Achiever of the Year Inspired by Daisy Fletcher

Charity of the YearEthical Business AwardSafer Community AwardYoung Volunteer of the YearBest Group Award

Love Where We Live Awards 2013

for full details of the award categories and the terms and conditions...

01892 554270 www.

The Val Joy Community Celebrations - local stars shineThis year sees Town & Country Housing Group launching ‘The Val Joy Community Celebrations’ to recognise residents and community groups who regularly volunteer their time for the benefit of others. The celebrations are named after Val Joy (pictured right), whose voluntary work made a huge difference to her community for many years.

A celebration event will be held in June at the High Rocks in Tunbridge Wells during

‘National Volunteers Week’, and will be an opportunity to celebrate together and speak with other volunteering agencies.

During the celebrations, there will also be the presentation of a Lifetime

Achievement Award to someone who has given many years of voluntary service within their community. Do you know anyone who deserves this honour? If so contact Carol Francis at Town & Country Housing Group (details below).

If you volunteer, either as an individual in your community or as part of a group, and would like to be part of this exciting and fun celebratory event then please let Carol know.

find out more... 01892 501630 [email protected]

How to nominate

Complete a nomination form, which you’ll find on the council’s website at www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk. You can:

submit your form onlineprint it off and post it, orpick one up at the Gateway, Weald Information Centre, Town Hall or Town & Country Housing Group in Monson Way.

Forms are also available from Hilary or Lizzie at TWBC.

The closing date for receipt of completed nomination forms is 1 August 2013

‘Natantosv

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There are many other Sherwoods across the world – so how do they compare with the Sherwood we live in?

Sherwood and Sherwood Forest, Nottingham, UK. Perhaps the most well known Sherwood is that in

Nottingham. A residential area, it is 1.5 miles north of the City Centre. A rather grisly connection is that Dr Harold Shipman, the convicted serial killer, lived in Sherwood.

Sherwood Forest is a royal forest around 15 miles from Sherwood. It is famous through its historical association with the legend of Robin Hood and attracts 500,000 visitors a year. It is also home to the famous Major Oak which, according to local folklore, was Robin Hood’s principal hideout. The oak tree is between 800 and 1,000 years old.

Sherwood, Arkansas, USA. Sherwood in Arkansas has a population of 29,523 – much bigger than Sherwood

in Tunbridge Wells which has a population of 6,729. The town also experiences a slightly different climate to our Sherwood – average temperatures for June to September are generally around 30 degrees, although it does get very cold in winter – the record low being -21 degrees Celsius (-6 F) in January 1985!

Sherwood, North Dakota, USA. This Sherwood has a population of just 242 and has a very low rainfall level

each year – just 13.13 inches compared to over 30 inches for Sherwood, Tunbridge Wells. It is also a designated port of entry between the United States and Canada.

Sherwood, Oregon, USA. This Sherwood is, according to post office records, named after Sherwood Forest

in England. It has a population of 18,205 residents and has been named in recent years among the twenty most liveable towns in America and one of America’s most ‘family friendly’ small towns.

Sherwood, Brisbane, Australia. There is a Sherwood suburb of Brisbane on the South-East Coast of

Australia. It is home to the Sherwood Arboretum, a large botanical garden and lake fronting the river which was planned and landscaped in the 1920s. It has a population of 4,763.

Sherwood, Edmonton, Canada. A small neighbourhood in Canada, this Sherwood has a

population of 1,254.

Sherwood, Prince Edward Island, Canada. Another Canadian Sherwood is in the city of Charlottetown,

Prince Edward Island. What was largely a farming district was changed when, in 1938, an airport was created in the area. It has since developed into a residential area.

These are not the only other Sherwoods. There are more still in the USA, South Africa and Zimbabwe!

Do you have a connection to these or any other Sherwoods? If you do, drop us an email to let us know at [email protected]

Putting our Sherwood on the map

Sherwood - Tunbridge Wells, UK Sherwood - North Dakoto, USA Sherwood Forest - Nottingham, UK Sherwood - Brisbane, AUSTRALIA


Focus on your finThis is a worrying time for people on low incomes. The new welfare changes mean that everyone will have to be much more careful about managing their money.

For example the new Universal Credit, which replaces housing benefit, will now come directly to you, so you will be responsible for paying it to your landlord. Will you remember to pay the rent? Or will you make a mistake and spend that money on something else?

The easiest way to make sure you remember to pay your rent is by using your bank account. You can have your income – wages and benefits – paid straight into it. You can then arrange a Direct Debit (debit means a deduction or payment out of your account) so that the bank will automatically pay your rent every month.

If you don’t already have a bank account, now is the time to get one set up.

Keeping track of changesIn addition to the change in the way benefits are paid, the new Universal Credit will:

limit the amount of money that non-working households can claim to £26,000 a yearreduce total payments for some families entitled to several benefits

If, like the majority of households, you have not recently switched energy supplier, then you could benefit from the helping hand offered by Energy Deal.

Launched this month, Energy Deal offers a new way to save money on your gas and electricity bills. The council-led collective energy switching scheme will enable residents to use their buying power and aims to negotiate lower energy tariffs on their behalf.

The scheme overcomes the confusion of searching through the large number of energy tariffs available. Instead, Energy Deal will negotiate directly with suppliers through an ‘energy auction’ to find a winning tariff and send a personal offer to everyone taking part. Similar schemes elsewhere in the UK have seen households saving between £60 and £200 per year. The more households signed up the better the results!

To join the scheme you need to provide a few simple pieces of information from your annual energy statement or recent bills.

find out more...

01892 526121

The scheme is free to join and there is no obligation to switch supplier once you are offered a new tariff. If you do opt to switch, this will be handled for you.

Details of the scheme’s registration window will be announced shortly. To hear about it first register your interest at www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Get a better energy deal


nances

if you are struggling with debts...

0800 043 4050

How to get a bank accountThe simplest form of bank account is called a basic bank account. They don’t provide a cheque book or overdraft, so you can’t run up debts.

You can open a basic bank account at any High Street bank. Make sure you ask for a basic bank account – they are the simplest to use. If the first bank you talk to sounds confusing, try another one – you are the customer, so you can choose where you bank!

Most Building Societies also offer accounts that work like bank accounts, or you could also try a Credit Union. Building Societies and Credit Unions offer straightforward bank accounts, savings accounts and loans but, unlike banks, are owned by their members and only need to make enough money as a business to cover their costs.

Kent Savers is the Credit Union that serves the Sherwood area – you can contact them by calling 0333 321 9050 or emailing [email protected]. Alternatively visit the Kent Savers website www.kentsavers.co.uk

Stressed out by debt?If you are stressed out by debt the Citizens Advice Bureau runs regular surgeries in Sherwood offering free, independent and confidential advice from a trained adviser.

No appointment is necessary, you can just turn up!

TN2 Community Centre on Greggs Wood Road.Midday to 2pm on alternate Tuesdays (Check exact dates with the CAB)

01892 533880

Introduction of ‘Bedroom Tax’The new ‘bedroom tax’ takes effect from this month. This only affects the housing benefit of people with more bedrooms than they need for the people living full time in the property. If you are affected by bedroom tax, you will have to pay the shortfall between your benefit and your rent. It only affects people of working age.

Where to get adviceTown & Country’s Housing Option Support Team has contacted tenants who will be affected by the changes to offer help and support, and have held surgeries across the county.

If you are a Town & Country tenant and you need help to manage your rent and other bills, contact their Income Support Team. If you want help budgeting and claiming any benefits you are eligible for contact their Money Support Officers.

Please call: 0845 873 1321 or 01892 501480. Alternatively you can email: [email protected] or visit www.tchg.org.uk


Temple Grove Academy takes shape!In the last issue of Your Sherwood we told you how Sherwood Park Community Primary School was about to become an academy. That has now happened and Suzanne Burgess from the new Temple Grove Academy gives us an update on what they have been up to since:

Temple Grove Academy, sponsored by Temple Grove Schools Trust, opened its doors to the local children on Wednesday 9 January.

The Trust, governors and staff are working hard to ensure that all the children meet their full potential and to provide them with enrichment activities including sport, music and drama.

The academy is delighted to have recently received a generous donation from the Round Table to be put towards a new school stage and the children look forward to inviting members of the Round Table to their first performance in the not too distant future.

The children have recently enjoyed celebrating Chinese New Year, World Book Day and Red Nose Day. They have also received visits from Sir Percy Vere and ‘Howard Carter’ who discovered Tutankhamen’s tomb, to complement their studies of the Tudors and ancient Egyptians.

Other activities in which the children have been involved are Science and Energy Workshops, Forest School Sessions and ‘Gifted and Talented Days’ as well as the local Food4Thought programme.

The academy and its staff are busy arranging educational visits for every class and already planned are days out to Knole, Comforts Wood and Bedgebury.

The new uniform, carefully chosen following consultation with Governors, staff and parents, will be introduced in September to coincide with the official launch of the academy and the new academic year.

Visit www.templegroveacademy.com to find out more!

Make it child’s playsupport for you and your childIf you are a parent with a young child aged from birth to five, a specialist children’s centre in Sherwood offers information and support for you and development activities for your little ones

Little Forest Children’s Centre on Friars Way is open all year round from 8am to 6pm, except over Christmas and on bank holidays. The centre offers a whole range of services, including:

Stay and Play – a drop-in group held on Mondays where parents and carers can join their children in enjoying play activities, arts and crafts, singing, storytime and more!Signposting to services for children with special needs and disabilitiesAnte-natal classes and post-natal groupsBaby and child health clinicsBreastfeeding support, information and adviceSupport for parents thinking about training or finding a new jobAnd much more!

Their timetable runs throughout the year, and they provide play days through the school holidays. Most events take place at the Children’s Centre itself, but some are held at TN2 Community Centre.

‘We’re a really friendly bunch here’ says Sarah Warner, Centre Manager,’and we place a strong

emphasis on community involvement. We’d love to

hear your ideas for events and activities you would

like to see. Please just drop in and have a chat with

us to find out more about what we do.’

find out more...

01892 532319


Could you ‘be a buddy’

to a child with disabilities?

The charity Voluntary Action Within Kent (VAWK) is looking for volunteers to help make a difference to the lives of young children with disabilities.

VAWK runs a befriending project called ‘Be Our Buddy’ for children with mild to moderate disabilities. They need volunteers in the Tunbridge Wells area to buddy up with these children over a six month period and help them access a club or group they are interested in.

Buddying is about building a relationship with a young person and empowering them to attend social activities on their own (for example Guides, Scouts, football, dancing), reducing their social isolation and improving their confidence. Volunteer buddies can make such a difference to the life of a young person who just needs a helping hand from someone who is interested in them and will share new experiences and the chance to have fun!

Have you got time tosupport victims of crime?

Victim Support are looking for volunteers in a variety of roles, including:

supporting people affected by crime and helping them to find the strength to carry on

identifying fundraising opportunities and helping with fundraising activities

helping with administration within their local offices

You don’t need qualifications or previous experience – just time, appropriate skills, enthusiasm and commitment. You won’t be paid, but your expenses will be covered. You will also receive free professional training and ongoing support.

find out more...If you are interested contact Fiona Shaw on

01233 618005

find out more...

like to refer a child who you think could

01892 530330

You could make a difference!


A trip to remember..Back in November of last year

members of St Philip’s Church

went on a pilgrimage to Israel.

Susie Pinder, one of the group

to pay the historic country a

visit, tells us what it was like:

After two and a half years of planning and anticipation, the day had finally arrived. A party of 28, led by Rev Brian Senior and Karen, his wife, were off to Israel. I was like an excited child waiting for their birthday – and I know I was not the only one!

Most of us in the group had a connection with Tunbridge Wells’ churches, either because we live here or because we know someone else on the trip and had been inspired to go.

I knew from others who had already been that the experiences gained from this trip would make an impact on me. Even though I had read about the places we were to visit and had tried to get my head around the political situation, nothing could prepare me for the everyday problems that arise from the Wall of Separation that is being built to separate Israel and the Palestinian West Bank.

Having travelled from Heathrow to Tel Aviv our first six nights were spent in a lovely, friendly and comfortable hotel in Jerusalem, just outside the city walls and within walking distance of the Damascus Gate. The second part of our trip saw us residing on the edge of the Sea of Galilee, listening to the sound of water lapping against the shore. Here we

visited many of the places that Jesus stayed at as he undertook his three years of ministry.

The first full day saw us stretching our limbs and visiting the Mount of Olives and the Garden of Gethsemane, where the roots of some trees may be over two thousand years old. We also went to the home of John the Baptist before finishing at the Jerusalem Museum, where there is a spectacular model of the Old City along with a fascinating exhibition on the Dead Sea Scrolls.

In contrast, the next day saw us travelling to Bethlehem. First we had to go through a checkpoint in the Israeli separation barrier – an eight metre high wall with watchtowers, punctuated by checkpoints manned by armed soldiers. As we stopped, members of the Israeli Army walked the length of the coach, all with machine guns slung over their shoulders, checking we were holding British passports.

We proceeded to our first stop, The Aida Refugee Camp. These camps, which began as tents, were established to house the Palestinians forced to move from their homes in the late 1940’s. Now the homes are constructed by the United Nations and are of brick.

While in Bethlehem we were able to visit a local hospital, Bethlehem Arab Rehabilitation Centre, affected by the Wall which will detach them from their olive groves, a source of important income. Here everyone is treated for their problems regardless of background, race or religion and only asked to pay what they can afford.

Walking through the Souk in Jerusalem certainly felt like it could have been two thousand years ago, with its hustle and bustle, sounds and smells. We spent some time at the Western

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Group Photo at Garden of Gethsemane

Entrance to Aida Refugee Camp


Wall, before moving through Old Jerusalem following the Val-Dolorosa, the path Jesus took on Good Friday as he carried the rough wooden cross through the streets of Jerusalem to Golgotha. So many historical sights were bought into reality.

Our day out to the Dead Sea showed us how close the desert is to Jerusalem, as well as the difference in altitude. In Jerusalem we had been 800m above Sea level, but as we drove down to the Dead Sea we passed the Sea Level marker and continued further on down to 411 metres below sea level. Yes, some of us had ‘popping’ ears! The centre at Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found and the Herodian Fort of Masada are worth an article in themselves. We arrived at the resort of Ein Bokek and, at the hotel, changed into our swimming costumes and paddling shoes to float in the very salty waters of the Dead Sea.

After Sunday communion at the Cathedral in Jerusalem we set off for Galilee. We stopped at Jericho and were amazed at how the desert went on forever and how the heat, even in November, made you wonder how people were able to get around – even the donkeys would have needed water and a rest. We moved towards the Jordan River and spent some time at the place reputed to be where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist.

The places we visited around the Sea of Galilee included Nazareth, with a walk through the town itself. We visited a reconstruction of a 1st Century Galilean village and saw what life would have been like for the shepherds, weavers and carpenters. The spectacular view across the plain of Armageddon, at the Basilica of the Transfiguration, was amazing – even if a little misty.

Our visit to the old town of Capernaum and places that Jesus had stayed in and spoke at, including the place where the Sermon of the Mount was conducted or where the miracle of the fish and loaves was undertaken, took my breath away.

As we left Israel our guide, who was extremely knowledgeable and incredibly helpful, asked us to do three things:

To pray for the situation in Israel To tell people how it was To visit again and tell others to come.

Sitting back here in Tunbridge Wells, I have over 600 photos that I have placed into some order and I have made a large scrap book of the visit. Would I want to go back? Yes please, yesterday!

If you feel inspired to go, then talk to Karen and Brian Senior at St. Philips Church. They have other trips planned and perhaps you might be one of the new pilgrims.

Just back? If you’ve just returned from a trip away and want to share it with us email [email protected]

Bethlehem – place of Christ’s birth

Graffiti on the Wall of Separation

Mount Tabor

From the Mount of Olives towards Jerusalem


Last year Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter, a pilot project to help those sleeping rough in the area, ran for 28 nights in January and February. Buoyed by its great success the project ran again this year.

Here Dawn Stanford, a local volunteer, shares her experience of helping on the Winter Shelter project:

When the coldest winter months kick in and we are all tucked up in our warm beds something amazing happens at various venues throughout Tunbridge Wells.

Building on the success of last year’s trial, the Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter for the homeless ran for seven days a week for ten weeks, from 7 January to 9 March.

St Philip’s Church is one of the venues that have been able to act as a host. Volunteers came from the church and the surrounding community to help ensure the continuing success for the many guests who walked through the doors seeking sanctuary for the night.

Each night saw 12 beds set up with a comfy duvet and pillows, a hot meal, and some other treats. There was some good conversation to be had – but most of all, a no strings, warm and safe environment supported by caring volunteers willing to make each night’s stay the best it could be. The guests enjoyed massages, hair treatments, film nights and contact with specialist agencies to discuss their individual situations and try to find a way forward.

This is the second year St Philip’s has been able to offer a host night and the building, with its warm, carpeted day centre, has proved to be a perfect space to accommodate a bedroom for twelve.

We have seen guests of all ages, both male and female, and the surrounding community in Sherwood has supported the shelter with time, with donations of food and clothing and with offers of washing both bedding and guests’ clothing.

We have even had a local volunteer offer a bed overnight for a guest’s dog so that he was able to access the shelter, which cannot accept animals.

With a fantastic team and local support, this year has proven again what can be done to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Again it has been a humbling and rewarding privilege to be involved, and all I can say is: ‘Roll on next year!’

Get involved... If you would like to get involved in this, or other ongoing work with the homeless, then contact Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter or Porchlight or drop your details into St Philip’s Church, FAO Dawn, and your details can be passed on.

Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter 07513 377951

[email protected]

www.tunbridgewellswintershelter.co.uk

Porchlight 01227 760078

[email protected]

www.porchlight.org.uk

Help for the homelessof Tunbridge Wells


Profile on…

Karl CoomberKarl has been Sherwood’s friendly local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) for just over a year now. He joined the Police Force in 2008, initially working in Sevenoaks Town Centre.Last year he was transferred to Tunbridge Wells and given Sherwood and North Farm as his ward. Being born and bred in Tunbridge Wells, Karl was delighted to be moved to his new patch.Prior to working for the Police Karl worked for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council as an enforcement officer for a number of years.He’s told Your Sherwood how pleased he is to be working in Sherwood at such an exciting time, with the regeneration planned, and has cited its great community spirit.

What is the best thing about Sherwood?The sense of community

What’s the best advice you have ever received? And who gave it?‘Make the most of every opportunity’ - my Dad

What did you want to be when you were a child?A game warden in Africa

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? I’m a bit selfish

What is the trait you most deplore in others?Lying

What was the last book you read?The Top Gear Years

What has been your greatest achievement?Being the father to my daughter

What would you do if you won the lottery?Retire

What three things would you take with you to a desert island?A photo of my family, photo of Holly Willoughby and a hat

What and where was your best holiday? Florida, Disneyland

What is your favourite film? The Ladykillers

What is your favourite TV programme? Spartacus

What is your favourite piece of music? Holst, The Planets

What is your favourite type of cake? Chocolate

Where would you most like to live? Dorset or Somerset

When are you happiest? When I’m at home

WWW.SHERWOODPLAN.COMYOUR SHERWOOD is brought to you by the Sherwood Plan partners: Town & Country Housing Group, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Kent County Council; the agencies leading on key themes – K College, Kent High Weald Partnership, and the Primary Care Trust and the Team Sherwood resident representatives who we thank for their time and enthusiasm.

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Dates for your diary

Tuesdays11am to 3pmTN2 Centre

House to Home weekly interior design workshops Learn how to make curtains, cushions, reupholster chairs, upcycle furniture and more. Friendly tutors will give you help to create something special for your home

A small contribution for materials

Tuesdays2pm to 4pmTN2 Library

Work Club If you are looking for work why not take advantage of free access to computers and the internet for job searching. The library has books to borrow that can help you in your search for work

Free

Wednesdays 9am to 11.30am St Philip’s Church

Cyber Café Improve your IT ability at a free cyber café. A crèche is also available Free

Wednesdays9.30am to 10.30pmTN2 Centre

Housing Surgery Turn up to discuss any tenancy related issues you may have with your Housing Manager. No appointment necessary Free

Thursdays11.45am to 2pmTN2 Centre

Centre Point Community Café (The Drop In) Especially for people with a disability, enjoy lunch in the café at 12noon before joining in the after-lunch activity from 1pm to 2pm

£1 admission plus cost of lunch

Sundays11am to 1pmTrebilco Close herb garden

Help at the herb garden! Help look after the community herb garden at the bottom of Trebilco Close – new volunteers always welcome! Free

Alternate Tuesdays12noon to 2pmTN2 Centre

CAB surgeries Get free, independent and confidential advice from a trained advisor. Call 01892 533 880 for exact dates Free

Special datesThursday2 May10am to 12pm

Mammal Tracks Find the signs of some of Sherwood’s fluffier residents as we track our way through the woods. Free

Thursday16 May10am to 12pm

Birdsong Strolls Tune into nature on a short guided walk, then weave a simple willow bird feeder to take home. Free

Saturday1 June1pm to 4pmTN2 Centre

Sherwood Carnival Join in the Carnival fun and enjoy a steel band, markets, entertainment and more! Free

Thursday6 June10am to 12pm

Mammal Tracks Find the signs of some of Sherwood’s fluffier residents as we track our way through the woods. Free

Thursday20 June10am to 12pm

Bugs & Butterflies Enjoy the summer hum of wildlife busily making their way through the wood. Free

Thursday18 July10am to 12pm

Newts and Lizards Alive! Explore the sunny spots and shady corners of Sherwood Lake, then make a newt to take home!

Free

your sherwood april 2013

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