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SOS: Save Our Services Downham and New Cross Fire Station
Next Public meeting
22nd April 13 6.30pm
Downham Leisure Centre
With Mayor Boris Johnson threatening to axe 520 jobs,12 fire stations and 18 engines in London, including Downham, New Cross and Woolwich, alarm at the proposed cuts is spreading quickly in Downham and Catford with hundreds of residents concerned about their local fire station being shut.
Labour Councillors for Whitefoot Ward Janet Daby and Mark Ingleby have been speaking to residents and pulling together local opposition to the proposals, with petitions and public events.
Cllr Daby, who is also the Cabinet member for Community Safety on Lewisham Council, states:
“Here in Downham & Whitefoot local residents are on the front line of danger, as Boris Johnson threatens local homes and businesses with cuts that will jeopardise public safety. Closing Downham fire station will lengthen fire service arrival times in the area, especially during rush hour, and will place the community at unacceptable risk. The local community is standing together with the Fire Brigade union to oppose these Tory cuts.”
“Whoever came up with the idea of closing Downham Fire Station knows nothing of the local traffic bottlenecks in this area at rush hour”, said Cllr Ingleby. “ And with people suffering further with their bills from cuts and the mis-handled economy, residents round here who are tempted to use their fire-places again without access to spark-guards and the fire prevention and protection services of the local station will be particularly at risk.”
Labour London Assembly Fire Spokesperson, Navin Shah AM said:
“Boris has been forced to take stock and delay his cuts which are too far and too fast. We will now hear what ordinary Londoners think about his plans and this will guide us in our battle to save our much needed frontline fire services. The men and women of the London Fire Brigade do a fantastic job protecting us when we need them most. Now it is our turn to stand up for them and the people they protect every day.”
PICTURED: Cllr Janet Daby and Cllr Mark Ingleby were joined by local residents, Lewisham East MP Heidi Alexander and London Assembly Member Len Duval to mark the strength of opposition to these plans.
22nd April 13 6.30pm
Downham Leisure Centre
With Mayor Boris Johnson threatening to axe 520 jobs,12 fire stations and 18 engines in London, including Downham, New Cross and Woolwich, alarm at the proposed cuts is spreading quickly in Downham and Catford with hundreds of residents concerned about their local fire station being shut.
Labour Councillors for Whitefoot Ward Janet Daby and Mark Ingleby have been speaking to residents and pulling together local opposition to the proposals, with petitions and public events.
Cllr Daby, who is also the Cabinet member for Community Safety on Lewisham Council, states:
“Here in Downham & Whitefoot local residents are on the front line of danger, as Boris Johnson threatens local homes and businesses with cuts that will jeopardise public safety. Closing Downham fire station will lengthen fire service arrival times in the area, especially during rush hour, and will place the community at unacceptable risk. The local community is standing together with the Fire Brigade union to oppose these Tory cuts.”
“Whoever came up with the idea of closing Downham Fire Station knows nothing of the local traffic bottlenecks in this area at rush hour”, said Cllr Ingleby. “ And with people suffering further with their bills from cuts and the mis-handled economy, residents round here who are tempted to use their fire-places again without access to spark-guards and the fire prevention and protection services of the local station will be particularly at risk.”
Labour London Assembly Fire Spokesperson, Navin Shah AM said:
“Boris has been forced to take stock and delay his cuts which are too far and too fast. We will now hear what ordinary Londoners think about his plans and this will guide us in our battle to save our much needed frontline fire services. The men and women of the London Fire Brigade do a fantastic job protecting us when we need them most. Now it is our turn to stand up for them and the people they protect every day.”
PICTURED: Cllr Janet Daby and Cllr Mark Ingleby were joined by local residents, Lewisham East MP Heidi Alexander and London Assembly Member Len Duval to mark the strength of opposition to these plans.
Evelyn By-election results
Evelyn ward in Lewisham elected a new Labour Councillor at the by-election on March 28th.
Our candidate, Olufunke Abidoye received 978 votes (55%) at the poll held after Cllr. Folorunso had to step down to take a more active role in his orphanage project in Togo.
Olufunke thanked the electorate and all those who campaigned for a Labour victory. Lewisham Labour is looking forward to working with Olufunke.
Our candidate, Olufunke Abidoye received 978 votes (55%) at the poll held after Cllr. Folorunso had to step down to take a more active role in his orphanage project in Togo.
Olufunke thanked the electorate and all those who campaigned for a Labour victory. Lewisham Labour is looking forward to working with Olufunke.
Letter from our Evelyn candidate
Olufunke Abidoye, Labour's candidate in the Evelyn By-election has written an open letter to all residents. This has been delivered across the ward over the past few days.
Dear Resident,
I wanted to write to you to introduce myself. I am Olufunke Abidoye, I am a trained and qualified nurse and I have lived in the area for 13 years. I am standing as your Labour Candidate in the election being held here on Thursday 28th March.
Joan Ruddock is supporting my campaign and I would like to thank all the local residents who have come forward to offer their support so far.
It is the Labour Party who have been the leading voice against the Government's cuts to services in our local community. The Government are proposing to close New Cross fire station and leave us with only one 24 hour police station. Lewisham A&E and maternity services are set to be downgraded; our Labour Lewisham Mayor Sir Steve Bullock is currently fighting this decision through the courts.
If you elect me to be your new local Councillor my priorities will be to;
- Continue Labour's fight to protect local emergency services, including Lewisham A&E, in our area.
- Use my position on the local Council to stand up against the increase in betting shops on our high streets.
- Continue the campaign against the Thames ‘Super Sewer’ being dumped on Deptford.
- Making sure more high quality and affordable homes are available for local families.
Please take the time to fill in my survey on the back of this letter. I would be delighted to hear from you.
Yours ever,
Olufunke Abidoye
Your choice in Evelyn
Dear Resident,
I wanted to write to you to introduce myself. I am Olufunke Abidoye, I am a trained and qualified nurse and I have lived in the area for 13 years. I am standing as your Labour Candidate in the election being held here on Thursday 28th March.
Joan Ruddock is supporting my campaign and I would like to thank all the local residents who have come forward to offer their support so far.
It is the Labour Party who have been the leading voice against the Government's cuts to services in our local community. The Government are proposing to close New Cross fire station and leave us with only one 24 hour police station. Lewisham A&E and maternity services are set to be downgraded; our Labour Lewisham Mayor Sir Steve Bullock is currently fighting this decision through the courts.
If you elect me to be your new local Councillor my priorities will be to;
- Continue Labour's fight to protect local emergency services, including Lewisham A&E, in our area.
- Use my position on the local Council to stand up against the increase in betting shops on our high streets.
- Continue the campaign against the Thames ‘Super Sewer’ being dumped on Deptford.
- Making sure more high quality and affordable homes are available for local families.
Please take the time to fill in my survey on the back of this letter. I would be delighted to hear from you.
Yours ever,
Olufunke Abidoye
Your choice in Evelyn
Labour Council backs Financial Transaction Tax
At a Full Council meeting held on 27th February Lewisham Council called on the Tory-Lib Dem Coalition to implement a Financial Transaction Tax. If carried out the Government could raise up to £20 Billion in revenue that could be used, among other things, to reverse cuts in the central grant to local government. 11 European countries have already pledged to introduce a transaction tax.
Chair of the Labour Group, Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said; “On an evening when we were forced into a corner, by this Tory/Lib Dem Government, to make cuts to local services we are in need of a fresh approach to raising the new revenue needed to fill the hole.”
The tax amounts to a small percentage (up to 0.05%) on each financial transaction a bank carries out, like stocks, derivatives, foreign currency and bonds. The tax is aimed at large banking operations and ordinary members of the public will not be affected, but they will benefit from reduced national debt, investment in local services and support for those in poverty.
Lewisham is amongst the first councils in the UK to support this transaction tax and the debate came at the same meeting as the budget was set for 2013-14. The Labour Group has worked tirelessly to minimise any severe impact on services that local people hold dear.
Chair of the Labour Group, Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said; “On an evening when we were forced into a corner, by this Tory/Lib Dem Government, to make cuts to local services we are in need of a fresh approach to raising the new revenue needed to fill the hole.”
The tax amounts to a small percentage (up to 0.05%) on each financial transaction a bank carries out, like stocks, derivatives, foreign currency and bonds. The tax is aimed at large banking operations and ordinary members of the public will not be affected, but they will benefit from reduced national debt, investment in local services and support for those in poverty.
Lewisham is amongst the first councils in the UK to support this transaction tax and the debate came at the same meeting as the budget was set for 2013-14. The Labour Group has worked tirelessly to minimise any severe impact on services that local people hold dear.
Olympic Start to “Healthy Bellingham”
Conrad Williams with Alan Hall and other Bellingham Councillors
Healthy Bellingham was launched at Christ Church, Bellingham Green on Saturday 2nd March. The event was opened by British Olympian 400 metre runner Conrad Williams.
Local Labour Councillor Alan Hall and chair of Bellingham’s Health Forum said: “It is a fantastic start to improving the life chances of residents on the Bellingham Estate to have Conrad Williams supporting our event.
Bellingham has recognised health needs and we have a varied programme to address problems such as cancer, heart disease and mental wellbeing over the next three years.”
Over 200 people attended events in Christ Church, St Dunstan’s Church, Bellingham Green and Bellingham’s Gateway Youth Centre.
Healthy Bellingham is part of the Well London initiative and received additional support from Lewisham’s Public Health Directorate. The launch event was organised by Bellingham Community Project, Phoenix Community Housing and the Co-operative (the co-op) all brought together by the Bellingham Health Forum with a budget of £300,000 dedicated to improving health on the Bellingham Estate over three years.
Local Labour Councillor Alan Hall and chair of Bellingham’s Health Forum said: “It is a fantastic start to improving the life chances of residents on the Bellingham Estate to have Conrad Williams supporting our event.
Bellingham has recognised health needs and we have a varied programme to address problems such as cancer, heart disease and mental wellbeing over the next three years.”
Over 200 people attended events in Christ Church, St Dunstan’s Church, Bellingham Green and Bellingham’s Gateway Youth Centre.
Healthy Bellingham is part of the Well London initiative and received additional support from Lewisham’s Public Health Directorate. The launch event was organised by Bellingham Community Project, Phoenix Community Housing and the Co-operative (the co-op) all brought together by the Bellingham Health Forum with a budget of £300,000 dedicated to improving health on the Bellingham Estate over three years.
By Election in Evelyn Ward, Deptford after Local Councillor Resigns
There will be a by election in Evelyn Ward which includes the Deptford riverside following the resignation of Councillor Joseph Folorunso. In his resignation letter Cllr Joseph Folorunso has said that he resigned his position on Lewisham Council to focus his attention on the orphanage set up with his wife in Togo in 2008 who died recently.
Cllr Vicky Foxcroft, Chair Labour Group of councillors said:
“Joseph has taken an incredibly difficult but honourable personal decision to step down as a Councillor. I respect his decision and we wish him and the orphanage well.”
Cllrs Crada Onuegbu and Sam Owolabi-Oluyole continue to serve in Evelyn Ward.
The By-election will be held on Thursday 28th March 2013.
Cllr Vicky Foxcroft, Chair Labour Group of councillors said:
“Joseph has taken an incredibly difficult but honourable personal decision to step down as a Councillor. I respect his decision and we wish him and the orphanage well.”
Cllrs Crada Onuegbu and Sam Owolabi-Oluyole continue to serve in Evelyn Ward.
The By-election will be held on Thursday 28th March 2013.
Cllr. Daby reports on public consultation with London Deputy Mayor (Policing)
Cllr. Daby chairing the public meeting
Deputy London Mayor Stephen Greenhalgh and Metropolitan Police Services address Lewisham at a public meeting held at the Civic Centre, 28th January 2013.
The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) is currently in consultation on proposals to cut the number of police front counters, police stations and freeing up more officers for frontline policing.
Cllr Janet Daby, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, chaired the meeting that addressed the new policing plan proposals for Lewisham. She comments, “These proposals are not thought through and are rushed. To go about closing police stations and counter services will mean police officers have to meet with people at their homes or places of work. The SNT structure will be completely different. MOPAC need to consider whether residents will want this.
If many Police officers have no base and are meant to work from local community bases, what will they be and how will they function? If Police officers are to no longer specialise in working with certain criminals and support of victims, London will lose a great resource. “Will people from BAME communities want this? Will older people be able to travel further afield to access their nearest police station? There will be much more room for error and greater criticism of the police service.”
There are also issues around the number of police officers promised to areas. Recently mainstream news reported that the London Mayor has been accused of misleading figures for the number of police officers in the capital’s boroughs. So can these new policing numbers be trusted?
Cllr. Daby's blog can be found here; http://janetdaby.blogspot.co.uk/
The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) is currently in consultation on proposals to cut the number of police front counters, police stations and freeing up more officers for frontline policing.
Cllr Janet Daby, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, chaired the meeting that addressed the new policing plan proposals for Lewisham. She comments, “These proposals are not thought through and are rushed. To go about closing police stations and counter services will mean police officers have to meet with people at their homes or places of work. The SNT structure will be completely different. MOPAC need to consider whether residents will want this.
If many Police officers have no base and are meant to work from local community bases, what will they be and how will they function? If Police officers are to no longer specialise in working with certain criminals and support of victims, London will lose a great resource. “Will people from BAME communities want this? Will older people be able to travel further afield to access their nearest police station? There will be much more room for error and greater criticism of the police service.”
There are also issues around the number of police officers promised to areas. Recently mainstream news reported that the London Mayor has been accused of misleading figures for the number of police officers in the capital’s boroughs. So can these new policing numbers be trusted?
Cllr. Daby's blog can be found here; http://janetdaby.blogspot.co.uk/
Response to Jeremy Hunt's statement - 31st January 2013
Cllrs Alan Hall, Vicky Foxcroft and Helen Klier with campaigners
Lewisham Labour Group has responded to Jeremy Hunt’s announcement today regarding services at Lewisham Hospital.
Cllr Vicky Foxcroft Chair, Lewisham Labour Group said:
"Jeremy Hunt did not listen. We will fight for Lewisham's health services and we stand by the Mayor of Lewisham in continuing to challenge the proposals, in the hope that we can prevent these plans from becoming a reality.”
Cllr Vicky Foxcroft Chair, Lewisham Labour Group said:
"Jeremy Hunt did not listen. We will fight for Lewisham's health services and we stand by the Mayor of Lewisham in continuing to challenge the proposals, in the hope that we can prevent these plans from becoming a reality.”
Labour Council fights back against cuts
Lewisham Council, led by Labour, has tonight continued its fight against dangerous proposals to cut emergency services across the borough.
This action comes after the well-publicised proposals to cut Lewisham’s A&E, police stations and fire stations.
Labour is continuing to lead the fight and campaign to protect our emergency services.
Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said;
“Little or no thought has seemingly been given to the impact of these proposals on our borough as a whole. Politically, this borough has said no and as a community, this borough has said no to these dangerous cuts to the services designed to protect us all from harm.”
Lewisham Labour will be out in force on this Saturday’s march against the final TSA report and will continue to campaign against damaging cuts to emergency services.
This action comes after the well-publicised proposals to cut Lewisham’s A&E, police stations and fire stations.
Labour is continuing to lead the fight and campaign to protect our emergency services.
Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said;
“Little or no thought has seemingly been given to the impact of these proposals on our borough as a whole. Politically, this borough has said no and as a community, this borough has said no to these dangerous cuts to the services designed to protect us all from harm.”
Lewisham Labour will be out in force on this Saturday’s march against the final TSA report and will continue to campaign against damaging cuts to emergency services.
A letter to Eric Pickles MP
Eric Pickles
Dear Mr Pickles,
Thank you very much for your “50 ways to save” suggestions, it’s always nice to get gifts at this time of year.
The problem is, in Lewisham, we’ve already done much of what you’ve suggested. We’ve had coffee shops in our libraries for some years now and I can’t remember the last time that I attended a council meeting where food was provided. We’ve reduced our printing costs, encouraged direct debit payments and are looking at sharing some services with other authorities. Our Chief Executive has even gone part time to save money.
By my reckoning, Lewisham has already done, or are in the process of doing, around 40 of your ‘suggestions’ – some we didn’t do in the first place. I can’t imagine why we would have ever needed to hire commercial lobbyists or public affairs consultants.
I wonder how many of you suggestions have been implemented by Government Departments? You mentioned on Desert Island Disks recently that Mintos are still provided at Cabinet meetings, I’m not sure you’d be happy if councils did the same.
You seem to have become a little obsessed with local authority reserves of late, mentioning them again here, but I’m not sure you fully understand how they work. Perhaps you can speak to the Chancellor’s friends at the Office of Budget Responsibility for an explanation. Their recent report outlined one of the reasons why councils are continuing to increase them:
“There is also some evidence to suggest that [councils] are building-up buffers given uncertainties about the potential pressures created by new schemes such as business rates retention and localised council tax reduction”
Maybe you should re-consider your decision to cut council tax benefit to the poorest households in the country?
Your suggestions have shown how dangerously out of touch you and your colleagues are. You’ve just outlined cuts of up to 8.8% on top of what we’ve already had and suggest we do this by encouraging hot desking and opening pop up shops. I am stunned that you seriously think that we can find the huge sums we need by being better at procurement.
Your “50 ways to save” mentions adult social care, the biggest challenge facing local government, only once. You offer no new ideas about how we can transform the services we provide to address the enormous challenges we face. There’s no mention of how we can save money by housing our growing population appropriately, and no suggestions at all about services to children.
Local government has born the brunt of your government’s cuts. We were already the most efficient part of the public sector and have had to become even more so. But forcing such heavy cuts on us comes at a price. Lewisham has already made £53m of savings and we still have at least £40m to find. We’re left with impossible decisions over what services to protect and which to cut.
Thanks again for your suggestions. They’re most unwelcome.
Best wishes
Cllr Paul Maslin
Cabinet Member for Resources and Councillor for New Cross Ward
Thank you very much for your “50 ways to save” suggestions, it’s always nice to get gifts at this time of year.
The problem is, in Lewisham, we’ve already done much of what you’ve suggested. We’ve had coffee shops in our libraries for some years now and I can’t remember the last time that I attended a council meeting where food was provided. We’ve reduced our printing costs, encouraged direct debit payments and are looking at sharing some services with other authorities. Our Chief Executive has even gone part time to save money.
By my reckoning, Lewisham has already done, or are in the process of doing, around 40 of your ‘suggestions’ – some we didn’t do in the first place. I can’t imagine why we would have ever needed to hire commercial lobbyists or public affairs consultants.
I wonder how many of you suggestions have been implemented by Government Departments? You mentioned on Desert Island Disks recently that Mintos are still provided at Cabinet meetings, I’m not sure you’d be happy if councils did the same.
You seem to have become a little obsessed with local authority reserves of late, mentioning them again here, but I’m not sure you fully understand how they work. Perhaps you can speak to the Chancellor’s friends at the Office of Budget Responsibility for an explanation. Their recent report outlined one of the reasons why councils are continuing to increase them:
“There is also some evidence to suggest that [councils] are building-up buffers given uncertainties about the potential pressures created by new schemes such as business rates retention and localised council tax reduction”
Maybe you should re-consider your decision to cut council tax benefit to the poorest households in the country?
Your suggestions have shown how dangerously out of touch you and your colleagues are. You’ve just outlined cuts of up to 8.8% on top of what we’ve already had and suggest we do this by encouraging hot desking and opening pop up shops. I am stunned that you seriously think that we can find the huge sums we need by being better at procurement.
Your “50 ways to save” mentions adult social care, the biggest challenge facing local government, only once. You offer no new ideas about how we can transform the services we provide to address the enormous challenges we face. There’s no mention of how we can save money by housing our growing population appropriately, and no suggestions at all about services to children.
Local government has born the brunt of your government’s cuts. We were already the most efficient part of the public sector and have had to become even more so. But forcing such heavy cuts on us comes at a price. Lewisham has already made £53m of savings and we still have at least £40m to find. We’re left with impossible decisions over what services to protect and which to cut.
Thanks again for your suggestions. They’re most unwelcome.
Best wishes
Cllr Paul Maslin
Cabinet Member for Resources and Councillor for New Cross Ward
Lewisham Council singing from the same hymn sheet
At a Full Council meeting, held on 27th November, a motion proposed by Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors received unanimous support committing Lewisham Council to fight against proposals from the Trust Special Administrator.
Speaking in the debate Cllr. Alan Hall said;
“Lewisham Councillors unanimously reject the Trust Special Administrator’s report and recommendations. In securing cross party support for this motion Lewisham Council is sending a very clear and strong message – This report is clinically dangerous and financially flawed. The TSA proposals are not supported by ENT, ICU and A&E consultants at Lewisham Hospital and will hit the critically ill hard. Lewisham Council is united in opposing Kershaw’s divisive report.”
Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said;
“These proposals are poorly thought out, unfair and dangerous. Gaining cross party support shows a real character in this council.”
“If we don’t do the very best we can to fight these proposals then these plans will be rolled out across the country and it will undo all the good work in reducing waiting times, in building good moral in our NHS and in providing fantastic services for all.”
Lewisham Council is “singing from the same hymn sheet” in the fight to save vital services in Lewisham Hospital following proposals published last month.
Labour are urging concerned residents to complete the consultation by 13th December at http://www.tsa.nhs.uk/tell-us-what-you-think
Speaking in the debate Cllr. Alan Hall said;
“Lewisham Councillors unanimously reject the Trust Special Administrator’s report and recommendations. In securing cross party support for this motion Lewisham Council is sending a very clear and strong message – This report is clinically dangerous and financially flawed. The TSA proposals are not supported by ENT, ICU and A&E consultants at Lewisham Hospital and will hit the critically ill hard. Lewisham Council is united in opposing Kershaw’s divisive report.”
Cllr. Vicky Foxcroft said;
“These proposals are poorly thought out, unfair and dangerous. Gaining cross party support shows a real character in this council.”
“If we don’t do the very best we can to fight these proposals then these plans will be rolled out across the country and it will undo all the good work in reducing waiting times, in building good moral in our NHS and in providing fantastic services for all.”
Lewisham Council is “singing from the same hymn sheet” in the fight to save vital services in Lewisham Hospital following proposals published last month.
Labour are urging concerned residents to complete the consultation by 13th December at http://www.tsa.nhs.uk/tell-us-what-you-think
MARCH TOMORROW TO SAVE LEWISHAM HOSPITAL
Some Lewisham Labour Group Councillors with Heidi Alexander MP (Lewisham, East)
On Saturday 24th November 2012 we will be proud to march as a group with a coalition of campaigners from across Lewisham and neighbouring areas.
The March will be starting at 2.00pm at Loampit Vale Roundabout. Lewisham Labour will be there en masse to show it's continued and prolonged support for the campaign to Save Lewisham Hospital from drastic measures which could see the A&E and mid-wife maternity ward shut down.
At 3.00pm the march will reach Lewisham Hospital and all those present will join hands in a ring around the entire hospital site.
Lewisham Labour will be convening at 1.30pm at the Clock Tower in Lewisham before joining the remainder of the large cross-section of our community that has got so actively involved in a true spirit of collective action.
The March will be starting at 2.00pm at Loampit Vale Roundabout. Lewisham Labour will be there en masse to show it's continued and prolonged support for the campaign to Save Lewisham Hospital from drastic measures which could see the A&E and mid-wife maternity ward shut down.
At 3.00pm the march will reach Lewisham Hospital and all those present will join hands in a ring around the entire hospital site.
Lewisham Labour will be convening at 1.30pm at the Clock Tower in Lewisham before joining the remainder of the large cross-section of our community that has got so actively involved in a true spirit of collective action.
Save Lewisham Hospital: Uniting for a common cause
Ever since the proposals from the Trust Special Administrator saw the light of day, Lewisham Labour Group has totally opposed plans to shut down the A&E department and the consultant led maternity unit.
We have been joining local activists, health care workers and local residents in actively fighting these proposals. We are supporting Heidi Alexander MP's petition which has received over 15,000 signatures online, we have delivered thousands of leaflets and we will be joining the march this Saturday through Lewisham High Street. Please join us at 2pm.
Furthermore, we want to do all we can to help the public campaign. At a meeting on 19th November of the full Labour Group we agreed to provide a donation of £500 to the Save Lewisham Hospital campaign and give further support . We know this money will come in useful and we hope that we can all join together in successfully fighting these outrageous proposals.
We have been joining local activists, health care workers and local residents in actively fighting these proposals. We are supporting Heidi Alexander MP's petition which has received over 15,000 signatures online, we have delivered thousands of leaflets and we will be joining the march this Saturday through Lewisham High Street. Please join us at 2pm.
Furthermore, we want to do all we can to help the public campaign. At a meeting on 19th November of the full Labour Group we agreed to provide a donation of £500 to the Save Lewisham Hospital campaign and give further support . We know this money will come in useful and we hope that we can all join together in successfully fighting these outrageous proposals.
New consultation meeting to be held in Sydenham
Cllrs. Chris Best, Liam Curran and Marion Nisbet
The Trust Special Administrator is currently consulting with residents in the affected areas of his review. This includes a number of public meetings. Your local councillors, along with local activists, have managed to hold a further consultation meeting for people in the southern parts of the borough.
Make sure your voice is heard at this further meeting if you cannot attend the others.
It will be taking place on Thursday 6th December at 7.30pm at Sydenham School in Dartmouth Road.
Dr. Jane Fryer, Chief Medical Advisor to the Trust Special Administrator will present the draft recommendations.
The meeting is organised by the Sydenham Assembly Coordinator’s Group and the Sydenham Society.
Make sure your voice is heard at this further meeting if you cannot attend the others.
It will be taking place on Thursday 6th December at 7.30pm at Sydenham School in Dartmouth Road.
Dr. Jane Fryer, Chief Medical Advisor to the Trust Special Administrator will present the draft recommendations.
The meeting is organised by the Sydenham Assembly Coordinator’s Group and the Sydenham Society.
Campaign continues to keep Lewisham A&E and Maternity department open
Over 10,000 people have signed our online petition to save Lewisham's hospital from cuts with thousands more having signed hard copies of the petition.
The public consultation is open and residents can get involved and make their views heard.
Those who are concerned should also try and get to one of the following events
• Friday 16th November - Public Meeting - 10:00 to 12:00
Goldsmiths College, New Cross
• Monday 26th November - Public Meeting: 14:00 to 16:00
St Andrew's Centre, Brockley
• Tuesday 4th December - Public Meeting: 19:00 to 21:00
Calabash Day Centre, George Lane
The public consultation is open and residents can get involved and make their views heard.
Those who are concerned should also try and get to one of the following events
• Friday 16th November - Public Meeting - 10:00 to 12:00
Goldsmiths College, New Cross
• Monday 26th November - Public Meeting: 14:00 to 16:00
St Andrew's Centre, Brockley
• Tuesday 4th December - Public Meeting: 19:00 to 21:00
Calabash Day Centre, George Lane
Lewisham Labour responds to the NHS Trust Special Administrator's recommendations
The Special Administrator appointed by the Tory Health Secretary Andrew Lansley published his draft recommendations on 29th October for healthcare provision in South London. Lewisham Labour will fight to save Lewisham's A& E and maternity service.
We strongly object to these outrageous recommendations as they spell the end of Lewisham Hospital as we know it. Furthermore, these recommendations make a mockery of David Cameron's pre-election pledge to protect the NHS.
The report can be read on the Trust Special Administrator's website, www.tsa.nhs.uk along with details of the public consultation which will only last for 30 days.
Cllr. Alan Hall said "We are witnessing the disintegration of our emergency services as we know them. These are absolutely paramount for local residents and Lewisham Labour will do everything we can to protect them from the Liberal/Tory coalition cuts.”
We strongly object to these outrageous recommendations as they spell the end of Lewisham Hospital as we know it. Furthermore, these recommendations make a mockery of David Cameron's pre-election pledge to protect the NHS.
The report can be read on the Trust Special Administrator's website, www.tsa.nhs.uk along with details of the public consultation which will only last for 30 days.
Cllr. Alan Hall said "We are witnessing the disintegration of our emergency services as we know them. These are absolutely paramount for local residents and Lewisham Labour will do everything we can to protect them from the Liberal/Tory coalition cuts.”
Whitefoot Cllr Mark Ingleby thanks supporters
I would like to thank all those from near and far, from across Lewisham, and also from Bromley and Lambeth and beyond, who came out in all weathers to maintain a very strong campaign of voter contact. It was a real privilege to fight this by-election with your support, and we achieved what we set out to do: we liberated a long-standing Liberal Democrat seat by a margin that visibly dented their confidence. That’s all I focused on throughout the campaign.
And thanks also to Damian Egan and Len Duvall for enduring the pouring rain one dark Friday evening with me - Yes it was definitely worth it! …..We were also encouraged by the positive responses in the blocks around Boundfield Rd – it’s clear that if we maintain a good programme of community engagement we can really make a difference to the issues that matter, around their green space and security issues, and look creatively at ‘total place’ and access issues elsewhere too. For a constituency that was once home to Herbert Morrison MP and one of the largest CLP’s in the country, we need to continue to re-build our relationships with residents and make Labour the party of real local action.
We’ve made a great step forwards with this result, and I look forward to working with all of you in the future. Thanks again for helping to achieve this historic result.
Cllr. Mark Ingleby
Whitefoot
And thanks also to Damian Egan and Len Duvall for enduring the pouring rain one dark Friday evening with me - Yes it was definitely worth it! …..We were also encouraged by the positive responses in the blocks around Boundfield Rd – it’s clear that if we maintain a good programme of community engagement we can really make a difference to the issues that matter, around their green space and security issues, and look creatively at ‘total place’ and access issues elsewhere too. For a constituency that was once home to Herbert Morrison MP and one of the largest CLP’s in the country, we need to continue to re-build our relationships with residents and make Labour the party of real local action.
We’ve made a great step forwards with this result, and I look forward to working with all of you in the future. Thanks again for helping to achieve this historic result.
Cllr. Mark Ingleby
Whitefoot
Labour Triumph in Whitefoot
Cllr Mark Ingleby celebrates with the Labour Group
At the by-election held Thursday 11th October, Labour Party’s Mark Ingleby was successfully elected to represent Whitefoot Ward on Lewisham Council, with a swing to Labour of 6.5%.
Mark Ingleby is a Whitefoot resident and local policing panel chair. He has served on the council before and is a former teacher.
The newly elected Councillor Mark Ingleby said;
“I am absolutely delighted to have been elected for Whitefoot. I want to thank all the people who supported me, on the campaign and at the polling stations. It is a tremendous honour and I will fight tirelessly for the key services my ward holds dear against these dreadful cuts from the national Government.”
The message from residents on the doorstep has been clear and direct. If the Lib Dems continue to support their national colleagues in the Coalition, they will pay the price locally.
The Mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock said;
“This result shows what we knew all along; that Tory and Liberal Democrat policies are failing the people of Lewisham. Whitefoot has spoken. Lib Dem support is completely evaporating in Lewisham.”
This is the first by-election that the Labour Party has won to take a seat off the Liberal Democrats since 1995.
Mark Ingleby is a Whitefoot resident and local policing panel chair. He has served on the council before and is a former teacher.
The newly elected Councillor Mark Ingleby said;
“I am absolutely delighted to have been elected for Whitefoot. I want to thank all the people who supported me, on the campaign and at the polling stations. It is a tremendous honour and I will fight tirelessly for the key services my ward holds dear against these dreadful cuts from the national Government.”
The message from residents on the doorstep has been clear and direct. If the Lib Dems continue to support their national colleagues in the Coalition, they will pay the price locally.
The Mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock said;
“This result shows what we knew all along; that Tory and Liberal Democrat policies are failing the people of Lewisham. Whitefoot has spoken. Lib Dem support is completely evaporating in Lewisham.”
This is the first by-election that the Labour Party has won to take a seat off the Liberal Democrats since 1995.
Council calls for an end to ‘Legal loan sharking’
Labour led Lewisham Council last night called for an end to ‘legal loan sharking’.
Hard working people and families are tightening their belts more than ever due to the recession and the Government’s austerity measures. Many people feel drawn to seemingly quick fix solutions like pay day loans which trap thousands in a spiral of debt.
Councillor John Muldoon speaking in the debate said;
“I am proud of the stand that Lewisham Labour has made on this important issue. Quite simply, people are being ripped off and household debt is rising across the borough.”
Councillor Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Community Services said;
“Borrowing to pay off other debt is a clear sign that personal finance is out of control. Pay day loans are short term fix for some and they should not be seen as a solution for people with a genuine long term financial need.”
During the debate Councillor Mike Harris, himself a former borrower through this method, said;
“These companies use aggressive marketing strategies. Local residents have told me that leaflets are handed out by loan sharks outside Lewisham's job centres whilst people collect their benefits.”
Lewisham Council pledges to promote credit unions in the borough, community based organisations that offer access to affordable credit and promote savings.
Hard working people and families are tightening their belts more than ever due to the recession and the Government’s austerity measures. Many people feel drawn to seemingly quick fix solutions like pay day loans which trap thousands in a spiral of debt.
Councillor John Muldoon speaking in the debate said;
“I am proud of the stand that Lewisham Labour has made on this important issue. Quite simply, people are being ripped off and household debt is rising across the borough.”
Councillor Susan Wise, Cabinet Member for Community Services said;
“Borrowing to pay off other debt is a clear sign that personal finance is out of control. Pay day loans are short term fix for some and they should not be seen as a solution for people with a genuine long term financial need.”
During the debate Councillor Mike Harris, himself a former borrower through this method, said;
“These companies use aggressive marketing strategies. Local residents have told me that leaflets are handed out by loan sharks outside Lewisham's job centres whilst people collect their benefits.”
Lewisham Council pledges to promote credit unions in the borough, community based organisations that offer access to affordable credit and promote savings.
Lewisham Labour; “last line of defence of the NHS”
Labour controlled Lewisham Council last night made 5 pledges to protect the NHS in Lewisham. By calling on local NHS leaders to adopt these five principles, Labour is at the forefront of the fight against privatisation and Cameron and Clegg’s free market free-for-all.
The NHS is one of Britain’s best globally renowned assets and we must do all we can to protect it against reforms being implemented by Tories and Lib Dems nationally.
Councillor Alan Hall said;
“Labour is the last line of defence against moves towards privatisation being sought by the Tory & Lib Dem Government in Whitehall. As a Council we must do all we can to ensure we put patients first and keep the NHS in Lewisham free at the point of need.”
The debate was held at last night’s Council meeting (26th September).
Councillor Vicky Foxcroft, Chair of the Labour Group;
“The NHS is nationally recognised as great and locally it is amazing. I myself have been exceptionally fortunate in the care I have received from local health practitioners as have so many of the people I represent.”
Labour’s pledge for the NHS is designed to give clarity and focus across the borough when it comes to the health and well-being of the Lewisham community. Lewisham is fortunate to have such a highly performing health service with staff that are dedicated to providing a high quality service and care for patients.
The NHS is one of Britain’s best globally renowned assets and we must do all we can to protect it against reforms being implemented by Tories and Lib Dems nationally.
Councillor Alan Hall said;
“Labour is the last line of defence against moves towards privatisation being sought by the Tory & Lib Dem Government in Whitehall. As a Council we must do all we can to ensure we put patients first and keep the NHS in Lewisham free at the point of need.”
The debate was held at last night’s Council meeting (26th September).
Councillor Vicky Foxcroft, Chair of the Labour Group;
“The NHS is nationally recognised as great and locally it is amazing. I myself have been exceptionally fortunate in the care I have received from local health practitioners as have so many of the people I represent.”
Labour’s pledge for the NHS is designed to give clarity and focus across the borough when it comes to the health and well-being of the Lewisham community. Lewisham is fortunate to have such a highly performing health service with staff that are dedicated to providing a high quality service and care for patients.
Labour run Lewisham Council launch GCSE legal battle
Sir Steve's letter to The Times
In an Olympic and Paralympic summer when we have come together as a country to celebrate our core values of hard work and fair play, our young people have suffered an injustice. Thousands of them have seen friends and fellow pupils gain the grade they need in the gateway qualification of GCSE English sitting the exam in January; they have performed at the same level five months later, yet have been awarded a different grade. This, it is clear to see, is just not fair.
We teach our children and young people to stand up against injustice. Today, we are standing up for and with those young people who have suffered this injustice by launching a legal challenge against the exam boards AQA and Edexcel and the exams regulator Ofqual. Together, hundreds of schools, professional and subject associations, local authorities, representative bodies and, critically, young people themselves with their parents, are saying enough is enough. We are demanding an immediate re-grading of the exams sat in June. We know it can be done, and quickly; it has been done in Wales. We are giving notice that if this is not done now for all pupils in England, then we are prepared to pursue this through the courts.
Our young people are paying now, and will continue to pay into the future, for the mistakes of others. Some of our bright young scientists have had their entry into sixth forms jeopardised. Generous sixth forms which, all over the country, are agreeing to waive their rightly rigorous entry requirements are wondering how to cope with so many retakes, many of which are with Boards they haven't taught before. And now, throughout the next few years those affected will be unfairly disadvantaged as they compete alongside their luckier friends for university places and jobs.
And now, we have descended into farce with Welsh students whose grades have been changed sitting in the same classroom as their English friends, who have taken the same exam with the same exam board but who haven’t had their results re-graded.
A new exam system has been announced. We will all work with the Government to ensure that it is fair and rigorous and commands confidence. But it is time to right the wrongs of the summer.
We teach our children that it is a strength to admit it when they make a mistake. Ofqual has admitted they made a mistake. They said they had to address that mistake by adjusting the June exams and making our young people suffer. We teach our children that they must bear the consequences of their mistakes themselves and that they must, where they can, put their mistakes right. It is time for Ofqual to put this right. Re-grade the June exams now.
Sir Steve Bullock
Mayor of Lewisham
In an Olympic and Paralympic summer when we have come together as a country to celebrate our core values of hard work and fair play, our young people have suffered an injustice. Thousands of them have seen friends and fellow pupils gain the grade they need in the gateway qualification of GCSE English sitting the exam in January; they have performed at the same level five months later, yet have been awarded a different grade. This, it is clear to see, is just not fair.
We teach our children and young people to stand up against injustice. Today, we are standing up for and with those young people who have suffered this injustice by launching a legal challenge against the exam boards AQA and Edexcel and the exams regulator Ofqual. Together, hundreds of schools, professional and subject associations, local authorities, representative bodies and, critically, young people themselves with their parents, are saying enough is enough. We are demanding an immediate re-grading of the exams sat in June. We know it can be done, and quickly; it has been done in Wales. We are giving notice that if this is not done now for all pupils in England, then we are prepared to pursue this through the courts.
Our young people are paying now, and will continue to pay into the future, for the mistakes of others. Some of our bright young scientists have had their entry into sixth forms jeopardised. Generous sixth forms which, all over the country, are agreeing to waive their rightly rigorous entry requirements are wondering how to cope with so many retakes, many of which are with Boards they haven't taught before. And now, throughout the next few years those affected will be unfairly disadvantaged as they compete alongside their luckier friends for university places and jobs.
And now, we have descended into farce with Welsh students whose grades have been changed sitting in the same classroom as their English friends, who have taken the same exam with the same exam board but who haven’t had their results re-graded.
A new exam system has been announced. We will all work with the Government to ensure that it is fair and rigorous and commands confidence. But it is time to right the wrongs of the summer.
We teach our children that it is a strength to admit it when they make a mistake. Ofqual has admitted they made a mistake. They said they had to address that mistake by adjusting the June exams and making our young people suffer. We teach our children that they must bear the consequences of their mistakes themselves and that they must, where they can, put their mistakes right. It is time for Ofqual to put this right. Re-grade the June exams now.
Sir Steve Bullock
Mayor of Lewisham
Lewisham's Lib Dems lack backbone and integrity
Over the summer, Lewisham’s Liberal Democrat Councillors have deluged the local letter pages with scurrilous claims and accusations against the Labour council that have already been answered in the council chamber and elsewhere by myself.
Rather than seeking to raise unwarranted concerns by deliberately misleading local residents, how about they turn their attention to their national colleagues who are implementing aggressive measures which threaten the livelihood and well-being of our community. On housing finance reform, Councillor Maines has a selective memory. It was a Labour Government, that began reform in 2009 with John Healey, enabling Lewisham’s Mayor to build council homes now, so no acknowledgement of the Lib Dems is required. They have done little to support local services. Local Lib Dems are conspicuously silent on the subjects of Welfare Reform, Universal Credit and Council Tax Support Reduction which will adversely affect many Lewisham residents, especially those in need and the vulnerable, while placing greater pressure on our local services. Labour controlled Lewisham is leading the fight against these measures and are continuing to provide excellent services despite mounting coalition challenges. It would be appreciated if our Liberal Democrat colleagues could support us against these measures, rather than mislead the people we all represent. Cllr Susan Wise Cabinet Member for Customer Services Cruel Cut in Council Tax Benefit –Cynical Move by Government
Stop The Stink - Thames Water Respond
Thames Water have ignored the views of local people and confirmed that they will be going ahead with plans for super sewer works near 2 primary schools.
Deputy Mayor Alan Smith said; "This is a disappointing announcement from Thames Water that ignores the overwhelming views of local people against the use of this site and also legitimate engineering, traffic and noise concerns. Although Thames Water have announced that they are consulting further on 4 other sites across London, the people of Deptford are not being accorded the same treatment. I will be writing to Thames Water calling on them to add Crossfields to the list for further consultation and to consider fully the disruption the proposed works would cause to local people, businesses and schools." |
Tory Mayor cuts to police numbers
Tory Mayor Boris Johnson has admitted that he has cut police numbers on London’s streets. Despite promising to protect police numbers, he has already cut the number of officers by 1700.
Ken Livingstone set up neighbourhood police teams in every community but these are now under threat from Boris Johnson.
Len Duvall said; "We need more experienced officers on our streets not fewer. That’s why I’ll work with Ken to reverse Boris Johnson’s cuts to police numbers. We’ll cut crime - not police officers."
Ken Livingstone set up neighbourhood police teams in every community but these are now under threat from Boris Johnson.
Len Duvall said; "We need more experienced officers on our streets not fewer. That’s why I’ll work with Ken to reverse Boris Johnson’s cuts to police numbers. We’ll cut crime - not police officers."
Stop The Stink!! - Join the Campaign
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