Empowering Black Women’s Health Matters Symposium

26th October 2024

Theme; ‘Reclaiming the Narrative’

Adanna’s Women Support Group in partnership with Redbridge Equalities and Community Council (RECC), hosted a symposium this Black History Month Empowering Black Women’s Health Matters at Redbridge Central Library Gloucester Room on 26th October 2024.

The event was a great success where the community came together to discuss health challenges faced by BAME Women, disparities in access to health care, cultural barriers, and the impact of socio-economic factors. Also strategies for improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable care for ourselves. The event raised awareness and delved into actionable solutions to address health issues within our community discussing inequalities that exist in various pain diseases, sickle cell, breast cancer, fibromyalgia, narcolepsy, lupus and other conditions.

The event had a great selection of guest speakers, entertainment with a fantastic rendition by a singer song stress, African drumming song, dance and drumming workshop and a delicious selection of African, Caribbean and Asian food.

RECC in collaboration with TARACC

BLACK HISTORY CULTURAL DAY

6th October 2024

Black History Cultural Day - Carnival Parade & centre picture featuring Special Guest Muhammad Ali Junior with Mayor of Redbridge, Mayor’s Consort and Chair of TARACC.

The Association for Redbridge African and Caribbean Communities (TARACC) in Collaboration with Redbridge Equalities and Community Council (RECC), hosted Black History Cultural Day at Redbridge Sports and Leisure Jack Petchey Hall  on 6th October.

The event was a huge success! Especially as we had a very special guest present in addition to the Mayor of Redbridge, Muhammad Ali's son, Muhammad Ali Junior who made the event even more spectacular !!!

The event programme included  a Fantastic Community Carnival Parade joined by the attendees present dressed in Notting Hill Gate Carnival Costumes, vibrant Steel Pan performances, Guest Speakers , IROKO Drummers, Multi Genre Violinist Jamal Hope, recently featured on the second season of Netflix period drama Bridgerton, RECC Black History Exhibition, over 20 Black Business stalls and many more activities for the community to enjoy!

Limited Service Notice

We will be operating until further notice a limited service due to staff shortage.

Our normal service operation times for calls to an advisor are between 10 am and 3pm Monday to Friday.

However due to current staffing levels we aim to respond to calls and emails within a minimum of two to three working days.

Tel: 0208 551 8178 Email: office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

We operate a hate crime service where messages can be left on our hate crime hotline Tel: :0208 551 8178, daily 6 pm to 12 pm.

Please click to download Hate Crime Report it Guide here.

If you cannot get through during our service operation times, please leave a message for an advisor to return your call.

Please see the following list of useful organisations and services if you need immediate help and support.

REDBRIDGE Support SERVICES & organisations

Need help and support - here are some useful contact details

Organisations supporting the homeless 365 days a year 7 days per week:

Redbridge Street Link -Tel: 03005000914

LBR Council Out of hours - Tel: 0208 708 5000. Please note this number also deals with health, social care and other areas of urgent support.

Other Housing support organisations and services:

Single Homeless Project Redbridge

The Single Homelessness Project's general enquiries phone number is 0204 509 8300. You can also contact them by email at info@shp.org.uk. 

Redbridge Housing Team

If you are homeless and have nowhere to stay in Redbridge, you can call the council Housing Team on 0208 708 4002. You can also email housing.options@redbridge.gov.uk.

Redbridge Housing Office Lynton House

Alternatively you can go directly to Housing Office at Lynton House and pull at ticket and wait to see an Housing Advisor.

Shelter UK

If you are about to lose your home or are homeless, you can call Shelter's emergency helpline at 0808 800 4444. 

General Advice and Universal Credit Claim help and support:

Citizens Advice Redbridge

Tel : o808 278 7872 general advice helpline

Tel : 0800 144 8 444 universal credit claim helpline

Organisations supporting food provision - Redbridge food banks

Jubilee Church - Granville Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 4JY. based in Ilford Town Centre

City Gates Community Grocery Shop, Clements Road Ilford IG1 1BH

All Saints' Church, Goodmayes, Goodmayes Lane, Ilford IG3 9SJ

Organisation supporting Debt Advice

Step Change Debt Charity - Tel: 0800138 1111 Mon -Fri 8am - 8pm, Sat 9am -2pm

Step Change debt online service also available 24 hours a day 365 days per year

RECC Annual General Meeting

25th September 2024

@7pm

Dear Friends and Members of RECC,

Redbridge Equalities and Community Council will be hosting our AGM on Wednesday 25th September 2024.

You are warmly invited to join us at this meeting to be held by zoom.

Click here to download AGM invitation notice with Agenda.

If you would like to become a member or renew your membership please contact us

Tel no 0208 551 8178 or Email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

Join us in our new campaign

Please join us in our campaign to progress efforts regarding raising awareness of cash machine scams. Redbridge have the most deprived areas in London in which cash machine scams have impacted our community.

Over the past few weeks we have been actively involved in this initiative, primarily by collaborating closely with partners to spread awareness through the distribution of posters. and are expanding our impact beyond poster placement. developing an extensive awareness campaign. This initiative aims to engage various stakeholders within the community to ensure its effectiveness.to protect the most vulnerable in our community.

We have complied a survey to gather relevant data, and facilitate presentations with community groups and organisations to articulate awareness of this important issue that has affected many, increasing loss of income and financial hardship during the cost of living crisis in our community.

If you want to join us to help us in our campaign or a community group or organisation wishing to learn more about our campaign to help your users please contact us.

Tel no 0208 551 8178 or Email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

International Women’s Day Symposium Saturday 16th March update

*Inspire inclusion* 

 

 *What does Inclusion really mean? And what does it mean to you?* 

Women of all generations joined us for this special event celebrating

 *International Women's Day* ! 

The ADANNA Women's Support Group in collaboration with Redbridge Equalities and Community Council (RECC) hosted this exciting seminar in celebration of International Women's Day on Saturday 16th March 2024.. 

*Time 10am to 2 pm* 

at the *Redbridge Central Library in Ilford..

 

The words EDI Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are being banded around a lot these days but what does it really mean? Women were invited to delve into this topic and share experiences..

It was a fantastic opportunity to network, connect with other amazing women, share stories, and empower each other. We had a great line up of powerful speakers who inspired and motivated us all. 

It was an incredible annual event where women discussed what inclusion meant for them, danced and sang together to vibrant African drumming and uplifted by the inspirational songs by a singer songstress. and a range of activities empowering women on International Women's Day!

There were also stalls at the event to promote businesses and groups.

Registration of the event was via Eventbrite https://AWSGIWD2024.eventbrite.co.uk

Please follow our social media accounts and share with us what inclusion means to you. By sharing your thoughts you will be empowering other women.

 Instagram.com/adannawomensgroup

 Facebook.com - search adannawomensupportgroup

www.adannawomensupportgroup.com

&

Facebook.com - search

redbridgeequalities ecc

www.redbridgeequalities.org

 

Happy New Year

It has been a challenging year for community and humanity as a whole in which we have seen over the last year increased poverty and deprivation within our communities and over the last year and recent months devastating and distressing human suffering. As we finish our celebration of the festive season we wish you a very happy and healthy New Year with wishes for Peace, Harmony, Unity and Good will to all.

This year will come with exciting new projects and activities, which we will keep you updated with! We will be working to increasing numbers on our team, doing more work to provide advice and support, and we will be developing our campaigning activities. More news to be announced, so keep your eyes peeled next year!

Our service levels this New Year :

We will reopen Wednesday 3rd January, monday to friday 9 am to 5 pm. Please call 10 am to 3 pm to speak to an Advisor.

Tel: 0208 551 8178 Email: office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

We will be operating a hate crime service where messages can be left on our hate crime hotline - please call 0208 551 8178, daily 6 pm to 12 pm.

Please click to download Hate Crime Report it Guide here.

If lines are busy for any of our service operation times, please leave a message and an advisor will return your call.

Please note due to current staffing levels we aim to respond to calls and emails within a minimum of two to four working days.

Happy New Year from all of us at the RECC.

We wish you all a very Joyful, Peaceful and Healthy New Year and thank you for your support throughout the year.

Greetings from Staff and Trustees of RECC

 

Support from organisations this Christmas

Need help and support over Christmas - here are some useful contact details

Organisations supporting the homeless 365 days a year 7 days per week

Redbridge Street Link - T 03005000914

LBR Council Out of hours - T 0208 708 5000. Please note this number also deals with health, social care and other areas of urgent support.

Organisations supporting food provision - Redbridge food banks

Service days and location over Christmas and New Year click here

Grange Hill Methodist

Saturday 23rd December 2023 – OPEN – 10am – 12pm

Saturday 30th December 2023 – OPEN – 10am-12pm

Saturday 6th January 2024 – OPEN – 10am – 12pm

 Organisations supporting Debt Advice

Step Change Debt Charity - T 0800138 1111 mon -fri 8am - 8pm, Sat 9am -2pm

Step Change debt online service also available 24 hours a day 365 days per year.



RECC & TARACC BLACK HISTORY CULTURAL DAY CELEBRARTION

Update

ILFORD TOWN HALL

SUNDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2023

The Association of Redbridge African Caribbean Communities and Redbridge Equalities and Community Council hosted Black History Celebration; Cultural Day at Ilford Town hall. It was an amazing event with the largest turnout of all our Reaching Communities Project events with 270 people in attendance! 

"The day was a vibrant celebration of rich cultural heritage illustrated through; activities, entertainment, food, music ,dance  and Windrush 75 exhibition. Dr Morgan Dalphinis was back to cover aspects of Caribbean History with an enthralling presentation on ‘Generational Trauma’ plus other inspirational speakers with young entrepreneur giving an inspirational account of their journey and rise to success. This was a truly exciting event bringing all ages and communities of our Redbridge Community together!

Time - 11.00am to 5.00pm

Date -   08 October 2023

Venue - Ilford Town Hall

Click here for Event flyer

Eventbrite link

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-history-month-with-taracc-and-recc-tickets-709280054737?aff=oddtdtcreator


BLACK HISTORY LEGACY AWARDS

ILFORD TOWN HALL

Update

SUNDAY 1ST OCTOBER 2023

We joined a fantastic celebration of the amazing unsung hero’s, celebrated at the Black History Legacy Awards on Sunday 8th October 2023 at Ilford Town Hall.

There was a fantastic programme to celebrate the first ever Black History Awards in Redbridge created by Cllr Shanell Johnson with great contributions to the programme and with over 387 nominations.

We were extremely proud and delighted, one of our very own RECC Team member, working for many years, committed and dedicated helping so many people in our Redbridge community was nominated for the category Community Impact in recognition of their service.

Tickets -  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/legacy-awards-tickets-709215301057?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=1



RECC TRUSTEE ADVERT

 

Trustees/Executive Board Members wanted

Passionate about human rights and want to make a difference to societal inequalities? Join us as Trustee/Executive Board Member.

Redbridge Equalities and Community Council (RECC) is a small Charity Incorporated Organisation(CIO) with growth potential and ambitious goals for the future. 

We are actively seeking to strengthen the capacity and diversity of our Trustees/ Executive Board Committee.

Trustees/Executive Board Members are responsible for collectively setting strategies, policies, overall performance, financial health and sustainability of the Charity. Acting as both an ambassador and a critical friend Trustees are required to promote the Charity's work, provide constructive challenge and developmental support and guidance to the organisation. 

Board meetings are held every 2 months between 7pm - 8.30pm, currently online via Zoom.

To help us to grow and develop our services to reach and deliver more to the diverse communities we serve, we would love to hear from you. In particular we are looking for experience, knowledge, skills in one or more of the following:

Accounting/Bookkeeping (QuickBooks), Auditing, HR Strategic planning, policy development 

Income generation/Fundraising/sustainability 

Quality improvement, systems design and development 

Digital media/PR/Communications/ Events/Campaigns management 

To find out more about RECC and Trustees main duties please contact office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk.

Click Here for Charities Commission Trustees Governance information.


RECC Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 27th September 2023

at 7pm

We are pleased to invite you to our Annual General Meeting which take place Wednesday 27th September 2023 at 7pm. The meeting will be hosted by zoom conference. .

This event will be an Eventbrite publicised event in the next few weeks.

Please call for further information or if you have any questions regarding any this meeting or for any other events and services.

0208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk


Islamophobia Citizens’ Assembly Update Saturday 10th June 2023 11am - 3pm

As a human rights charity, RECC acknowledge that there is the need for the discussion concerning Islamophobia as a hate crime. We came together as a community to learn about and discuss the issues, experiences concerning Islamophobia and to reach conclusions how this can be tackled and find out what citizens think should happen.

RECC welcomed people from all faith and non-faith backgrounds to our Citizens' Assembly to challenge Islamophobia and other forms of hate crimes and prejudices in Redbridge on Saturday the 10th June .

The Assembly was a FREE event bringing the community together in a range of event activities:

Exhibition- Information stalls -Workshops- Discussion with panel of speakers.

The programme commenced with:

Welcome and Introduction – The Chair of RECC welcomed the attendees and spoke of the importance of the event and spoke of the proposed definition of Islamophobia to be fully adopted: "Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness,"

We were delighted the Mayor of Redbridge was in attendance. The Mayor of Redbridge thanked RECC for hosting the Assembly ,acknowledging the considerable work behind the scenes in organising such an event and thanked all the collaborators and supporters  and attendees. There was great participation with all the event activities, ice breaker activity myth or fact via using the interactive platform Menti.com, interactive workshops and educational exhibition exploring themes of Islamophobia in the workplace, media, in areas of every day life and great participation in discussion were there were very moving testimonials by attendees sharing both their personal and other people experiences of Islamophobia,  

There was great feedback from attendees of their enjoyment of having participated with comments highlighting the successful event… ‘resourceful, interesting and very well organised and it was an excellent event!'

Special thanks to the following collaborators, partners and supporters in the Islamophobia Citizens’ Assembly on 10th June :

One Place East, Islamophobia Response Unit, Educate Against Islamophobia , Islamophobia Awareness Month ,Redbridge Faith Forum, Ilford Islamic Centre and Redbridge Trade Council.

 Attendees enjoyed a selection of Light Food and Refreshments

Free tickets where purchased via Eventbrite link

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/islamophobia-citizens-assembly-tickets-631473423007

We welcome your participation in our Islamophobia survey, please click link below

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqtR7oejI04nXD3jdgKjd2MM1jbIJpQqh4gS617NaDGlqnyw/viewform?usp=sf_link

For more information please contact : office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

or call: 0208 551 8178

Outreach General Advice, Advocacy Casework service

Redbridge Equalities and Community Council is providing vital advice, advocacy and support to the most vulnerable in our Redbridge community.

We are operating advice and advocacy services via surgeries and can be contacted by telephone if you need help and advice.

If you need our help, advice and advocacy to access services , welfare benefits, housing, homelessness ,help with discrimination, harassment, hate crime or help to access services in other areas please give us a call . In addition to providing, advice, advocacy and casework , if you need specialist or other support we will refer or signpost.

Next up and coming Outreach Advice surgery dates

Central Library : Friday 9th August 10am to 11.30am

For information on surgery dates, appointments and advice please call

0208 551 8178 Mon - Friday 10am - 3pm to speak to an advisor. Do not worry if lines are busy we will return your call.

Download here for further information and service details.

For Community organisations please call to book an outreach general advice surgery for your community group or organisation.

Barkingside and Hainault Community Day 19 February 2023 update

RECC Reaching Communities project partnered with Lifeline Project and Vision Redbridge Libraries coming together to host  our first outdoor event this year held on Sunday 19th February. The event was very successful in bringing the communities together to enjoy a fun day out with a range of activities from multi sports activities, meditation and African Drumming workshop with over 70 – to over 100 parents with their families enjoying the days activities in attendance..

Interested in participating in other RECC Reaching Community events, Community Forums and other activities.

Please call for further information 0208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk.

Download here Barkingside and Hainault Community Day event Flyer

Community Forums

Hainault and Ilford North

&

Loxford and Ilford South Tuesday

8th and 10th November update

We welcomed the residents to join us at the Community Forums on 8th November for Hainault and Ilford North and also on 10th of November for Loxford and Ilford South. Whether you live ,work ,study, worship or have fiends and family living in Redbridge all are welcomed to come and share their views and ideas to help improve and increase opportunities in your local areas.

There was open discussion with fantastic contribution from attendees with also great participation with the interactive survey Menti.com, sharing their views regarding health and well being, their feeling of sense of community and crime and safety ,and cost of living crisis with guest contributors from Redbridge CAB, Vision Health and Well Being Team and inspirational insights from Inventor Aneela Rajput.

The Community Drumming workshop at the Ilford South Forum was vibrant uplifting experience for all the attendees as entertainment to enjoy and light food and refreshment ! At the Hainault Forum, we enjoyed excellent Gymnastic Dance display performed by the school children of John Bramston School.

Free Tickets where purchased via Eventbrite

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/community-forum-loxford-and-ilford-south-tickets-464702988147?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=escb

We look forward to seeing you at our next Community Forums in the New Year !

For further details and information Please call 0208 551 8178

or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org

Download here Hainault, Ilford North and Loxford, Ilford South event flyer

Happy Diwali from RECC

Redbridge Cultural Day Update

TARACC & RECC BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2022 CELEBRATION

Saturday 22nd October

Redbridge Equalities and Communities Council in conjunction with the Association of Redbridge African Caribbean Communities (TARACC) invited the Community to a celebration of African and Caribbean Cultural Heritage, plus live entertainment with music, Steel Pan, African Drumming, and exhibitions. A short quiz and fun things for the children.

Delicious food from Calabash, Chicken, Fish or Vegetarian box and tasty stuffed dumplings and patties.

We were absolutely delighted TARACC and RECC Black History Month Cultural day was a huge success. The event was publicised on Eventbrite with 152 Tickets sold and on the actual day well over 150 people were in attendance. The event was held in Central Library new Studios on 1st Floor. It was great to see the majority who came at the start of the event remained to the very end of the event. We worked very hard to very late in the evening prior to the event, to erect the RECC Black History Exhibition on stands and the RECC Black History Exhibition table with Cultural and musical artefacts, and also dress the hall with African textiles.  There were three guest speakers arranged by TARACC. Dr Dalphinis who ‘s talk was on the history of the Caribbean received a standing ovation.  There was a Black History Quiz . This was followed by live entertainment with Steel Band, African drumming followed by workshops organised by RECC, where attendees could learn to play Steel Pan and a group audience drumming session where people were given an array of drums and musical percussion instruments to join in the workshop session. This was followed by a spectacular Carnival parade where attendees young and adults practiced dance routines for the parade delivered by Adanna’s Black Women’s Group in collaboration with RECC in Gloucester Rooms. The event came to a close with rapturous group singing of songs, including Bob Marleys anthem ‘Three Little birds’ and a generous Raffle.  Attendees also enjoyed delicious food at the event. Both Khaled as RECC Chair and Chair of TARACC and also the MCs for the event from RECC and TARACC thanked attendees for their attendance and great participation. The feedback from attendees was extremely positive with statements “This is the best Black History event I have ever been to! There was nothing, nothing at all that was missed! I am so happy to be here and to be a part of this. This truly reflects every aspect of our African and Caribbean culture!”  It has been a delight to work with TARACC and we are looking forward to our next partnered event.

Speakers at the event : Dr. Morgan Dalphinis, Retired Senior Education Manager ‘African, Caribbean & St. Lucian History’ ;

Dr Donald Palmer, Programme Director, Reach Society ‘Overcoming Challenges In Order To Get Ahead';

and Martin Wynter, Entrepreneur and Motivational Speaker.

Free Tickets were purchased via Eventbrite

 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/black-history-2022-cultural-day-event-tickets-425494063197

Download Event flyer here

 For more information please contact :

o208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

 

HM Queen Elizabeth II

RECC STATEMENT

Redbridge Equalities and Community Council (RECC) Trustees and its members are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Our heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers are with the King and the Royal Family at this difficult time. We at Redbridge and across the UK, humbly remember and are thankful for Her Majesty the Queen's devoted public service and her dedication to promoting unity amongst communities, peoples and cultures, as head of the Commonwealth. RECC has been working to promote equality, challenge discrimination, and strive for a harmonious diverse society for all. We remember HM the Queen's exemplary legacy and her long reign over seven glorious decades.

———————————————————


RECC Coffee Mornings

23rd and 25th August Update

RECC has launched our first series of Coffee Morning which we be part of the Reaching Communities with hosting these mini meetings in community places/ venues. The first Coffee Mornings where hosted on the 23rd of August in Doreen Ferris Room , Hainault Community Association and also on the 25th August in Central Library, York Room.. The Coffee mornings brought people together from our communities to enjoy a light food and refreshments breakfast catered event, listen to guest speakers from Vision Health and Leisure Team including RECC volunteer and entrepreneur sharing her inspirational journey of creating a pioneering family board game that focus on the development of positive open communication and family social interaction. . Attendees at Central Library Coffee morning enjoyed live music with Clarinet Renditions from David Landau , retired RECC staff and at the end of the event , participants were brought together in a wonderful interactive activity where they enjoyed playing the family board game. We were extremely pleased that It was an uplifting warm and welcoming informal event which people expressed they enjoyed!

The Coffee Morning will be an opportunity for people to share their ideas, views and attendees felt and agreed it should be also a platform to showcase the local community skills and talents !

Invitations to Community Forums, Hainault and Ilford North, Loxford and Ilford South update

24th and 26th May  

We invited residents and their friends and families to attend Community Forums on the 24th and 26th May via zoom hosted in local areas in Hainault, Ilford North and also Loxford, Ilford South. We were delighted that residents came to the meetings and were able to share their ideas and views on how to improve their local areas and discuss important issues and challenges such as the cost of living crisis., These Community Forums will be hosted throughout the year to bring communities together to work towards helping to improve and build a thriving community in their areas.

Meeting zoom links ::

24th May (Hainault, Ilford North)

Time: 06:00 PM London

 https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86577165379?pwd=cHZXdjd5ZjF5L1AySnA1VzJuTXlSQT09

Meeting ID: 865 7716 5379

Passcode: 632027

26th May (Loxford, Ilford South)

Time: 06:00 PM London

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83842972104?pwd=MFo5bFovN1YvSXF0aFFzcStJelpMQT09

Meeting ID: 838 4297 2104

Passcode: 780834

We have created a survey (via Google Forms) for local residents. The survey will map community needs to be addressed at the forum. We would appreciate if the survey link (see below) to be completed .

Survey link: https://forms.gle/oJrNx7yo4JZX94uL8

It will be great for you to join the discussion, share your views and great ideas to build and strengthen your community, especially as one of themes for discussion will be the cost of living crisis.

Look forward to seeing you there !

Reaching Communities Project - funded by the National Lottery


RECC General Meeting Monday 8th November 2021-7.30 pm start

 

Thank you to all who attended and participated in our General Meeting held by zoom Monday 8th November 2021 at 7.30 pm. We were delighted to have guest speakers from Citizens UK  7.30pm  to 8.30 pm  followed by rest of the general meeting. There were four speakers from Citizens UK who gave an overview of their inspirational work in Redbridge, in East London boroughs and nationally.

Click on Eventbrite link for further details

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/recc-general-meeting-with-guest-speakers-from-citizens-uk-tickets-204718567747

Topic: RECC's General Meeting Meeting with guest speakers from Citizen UK

Time: 07:30 PM

For further details on future meetings please call 0208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk



Black History MONTH 2021

Redbridge Equalities and Community

 GRAND FINALE Celebration of Black History Month

 

Friday 29th October

2pm to 4.30pm 

FREE Live Entertainment

ILFORD TOWN HALL

 “Steel Pan” & “Carnival Parade”  

               “African Drumming”

Steel Pan and Drumming workshops

“Plus Black History Information stall”  

Download flyer event here       

We like to thank all those that attended , participated and helped out at our BHM Grand Finale celebrations .

It was an enjoyed by our Redbridge Community where people learnt about Black history, black scientists, inventors, authors, academics, pioneers ,legends past and present and participated in a fun filled day with live entertainment and Steel Pan and Drumming workshops.

For more information on future events please call us 0208 5518178

0r email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

Sistah Space Survey on Black Women affected by Domestic Abuse


Earlier this year, Sistah Space received funding from the organisation Black Lives Matter (BLMUK) to conduct essential research on the experiences of UK black women affected by domestic and sexual abuse.

This survey will help them provide the much needed, very specific data around the experiences of UK based black women.

Mainstream Violence Against Women and Girls (VWAG) sector, police, housing and other associated agencies need to understand how to adequately support black DV victims and survivorship. This survey will help them achieve that.

As an essential part of their research they need to hear directly from those black women affected by the negative and positive responses of mainstream agencies and about all aspects of their journey of trying to access support in escaping abuse.

The idea behind the research is to give black women the opportunity to have their voices heard, and influence positive change.

Please encourage UK-based African and Caribbean heritage women to complete the survey. Sistah Space/Black Lives Matter Domestic Abuse Research Survey (surveymonkey.co.uk)

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/M682YWN  

RECC Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 14th July 2021

at 7pm

We were ever so pleased to invite you all to our Annual General Meeting which took place 14th July 2021 at 7pm. We are also delighted our President The Mayor of Redbridge was also in attendance.

Because of Coronavirus restrictions, it was not possible again for RECC to hold a physical AGM this year and it was held by zoom.

  • We were very pleased that our guest speaker this year was Liz Fekete – Director of the Institute of Race Relations who discussed the implications for racial justice of the reports by both the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities and the Parliamentary Education Committee report.

This was an Eventbrite publicised event.

 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/recc-annual-general-meeting-tickets-162263341021

Please call for further information or if you have any questions regarding any future meetings, other events and services.

0208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

RECC General Meeting -Marsha de Cordova

Shadow Equalities Minister

Thursday 4th February

We were extremely pleased Marsha de Cordova Shadow Minster for Equalities spoke at our next General meeting Thursday 4th February. 2021.

Our Redbridge community was invited to join us at this very important meeting where the Shadow Minister for Equalities talked about the Joint Committee report on Human Rights. The report exposed the lack of progress in addressing racial inequalities in Britain and it found racial progress is in some ways getting worse.

This was an Eventbrite publicised event

 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/recc-general-meeting-with-marsha-de-cordova-tickets-137224116025

Please call to request further information or if you have any questions regarding future meetings, events and services.

0208 551 8178 or email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

Read the report summary

Read the full report

Outreach General Advice and Advocacy Telephone and Zoom service

Redbridge Equalities is part of Redbridge Covid organisations, groups and networks providing vital advice, advocacy and support to the most vlunerable in our Redbridge community.

We are operating advice and advocacy services via surgeries, telephone or remotely via zoom. If you need our help, advice and advocacy to access services , welfare benefits, housing, homelessness ,help with discrimination, harassment, hate crime or help to access to health services and many other areas please give us a call . We provide, advice, advocacy and casework and if you need specialist support we will refer or signpost.

Please call 0208 551 8178 Mon - Friday 9- 5 pm

or call o208 551 8178 to speak to an advisor between 12-3pm at our Tuesday weekly Telephone General Advice Surgery Drop in. Do not worry if lines are busy we will return your call.

For community group advice and advocacy surgeries for service users - please call 0208 551 8178 to book an outreach general advice surgery for your community group or organisation.

EU Settlement Scheme Project Citizens Advice Redbridge

We are very pleased to announce the EUSS Settlement Scheme project run by CItizens Advice Redbridge, cooperating with Redbridge Council. The aim of the project is to support vulnerable EU citizens residing in Redbridge to apply for settled or pre-settled status. They work with partner agencies to engage with vulnerable people and help them make successful applications.

Please see below more details on what service they would be able to offer clients:

-Support at any stage of the application process to the EU Settlement Scheme- advising on any issues clients might have before applying through the final stage when they need to submit the application online.

-Offer advice via multiple channels - telephone, email and face to face appointments ( If possible the service still can arrange face to face consultations despite Covid-19 lockdown when we need to help a client with submitting their application online or scanning their documents for example).

- refer complex cases to their specialist Immigration Adviser. 

-Help with gathering the appropriate documents and evidence to support the application. 

-Assisting clients who do not speak English- they have native Bulgarian, Polish and other European languages native speakers.

If you are a EU citizen needing help to regularise your stay or our client user please get in touch and we will signpost/refer all those who need assistance with their application to the EU Settlement Scheme.

 Please click here for EU Settlement Scheme poster in multiple European languages . For our service users please call us on o208 551 8178 for a referral to this service.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Help can still be provided for people who have not applied in time by 30th June 2021 which was the expiry date for settled status applications. They can be provided help and support to make an application if they have exceptional circumstances

EQUALITY A HUMAN RIGHT

RECC STATEMENT - GEORGE FLOYD

The impact of George Floyd’s killing has resonated throughout the world.  It shows that not only in America are black lives not valued but that this institutional racism and racism in all form is very much an issue in the United Kingdom.  This is the country of the Windrush scandal, the Grenfell disaster, still not resolved and a criminal justice system in which Black and Minority Ethnic citizens are disproportionately targeted. The anger ignited will not diminish without continued positive, progressive and peaceful action, action that will not take place without demands to stop racism and hate. Only concerted effort from all communities will conquer this scourge.

Join us as we challenge together racism and hate and support our work to eliminate racism now and for future generations.

Invitation to RECC Black Lives Matter

Zoom Meeting

Monday 22nd June

The year 2020 has been unprecedented for all us.  It has been a time of grief, pain and struggle.  It has been a time of ferment and transformative change. It has also been a time when the nature of the existing inequalities has been laid bare. As the only voluntary  organisation charged with delivering equalities in the borough, Redbridge Equalities and Community Council invited residents to share their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on the future of equalities in a Zoom meeting on Monday 22nd June from 7.00 to 8.30 pm

We welcomed residents to join us and contribute to our discussion, where people shared their feelings, ideas and hopes for the future.

Event update: Thank you to everyone who attended and participated with truly powerful inspirational contributions and recommendations made.

Register your interest to be put on our event mailing list or find out about future meetings please email office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk or call 0208 551 8178.

Monday 22nd

Windrush Day

Monday 22nd June 2020 -the 72nd anniversary of the arrival of the Windrush ship which gave its name to a whole generation.  We pay homage to this generation who have contributed so much to our society.  However we wish to place on record our dismay at the treatment so many family members of that special generation have suffered.  Their treatment  is a stain  on our country and we strongly request that the restitution that they were promised be speedily delivered.

 

COVID-19 & Biological Inequality; a London Data Study

Centric Lab a research driven organisation working to reduce biological inequality and improve health in urban environments, have produced an academic paper that investigates how poorly designed and planned environments heighten the risk of health issues due to systemic deprivations and stressors. The paper investigates how COVID-19 is interacting with these environments and its effect on Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities in the UK..

Please click here to read this important study.

COVID-19

RECC STATEMENT AND ADVICE

We are all living through unprecedented and challenging times.  None of us has ever experienced a pandemic of this nature.  The advice we have been given by the Government and the scientists is the best available.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

People in the borough have risen to the challenge and are working together to help each other.  However we do know that many people are worried not only about health but also about finances.  We have a long tradition of providing welfare, housing, financial as well as rights, discrimination and hate crime advice, advocacy and general support to people in Redbridge and hope to continue to offer guidance.  However we are a very small organisation that cannot meet everyone’s needs but despite this we are still here for YOU - providing a telephone advice and advocacy service and also hope to post advice and regular updates on our website news and facebook page that will  help and signpost people in the right direction.

We are complying with the directive to work from home and encourage people to stay at home, to keep safe, and help support the tremendous work of our NHS staff.

Please call our telephone advice and advocacy service for help and support on

020 85518178 9 - 5 pm, Monday - Friday.

Email: office1@redbridgeequalities.org.uk

Our hate crime out of hours service is in operation - If during this Pandemic you are a victim of hate crime please know you are not alone! Please also call

0208 551 8178 6-12 pm daily

Please see below more info, useful numbers and links regularly update.

Useful Numbers and Links

Silver Line for older people who may be feeling lonely whilst self-isolating and would like to chat to someone: 0800 4 70 80 90

Street Link. It is crucial during this crisis that rough sleepers get access to accommodation for their safety. If you want to get help for someone sleeping rough you can contact Street Link on 0300 500 0914 or call us, who will take note of all the information that you provide and arrange for the rough sleeper to get access to local services and support.

Redbridge Carers Support Service unpaid persons looking after family members:

0208 514 6251

Jewish Care helpline: 0208 922 2222

London Borough of Redbridge (for adult services: 0208 708 7333

Redbridge First Response Service: support for adults to support their wellbeing, safety, choice and independence: 020 8708 5135

Redbridge Well-being Service:  advice and support for anyone who is most vulnerable to coronavirus,  0208708 5555 open Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm.

Universal Credit Helpline:  0800 328 5644

HMRC Tax Helpline (for businesses and self-employed people worried about how COVID-19 will affect their taxes): 0800 0159 559

Redbridge Voice Ability Advocacy Service:020 8900 2221

 https://www.voiceability.org/services/london-borough-of-redbridge/Advocacy support for those with health or social conditions.

Redbridge Covid-19 Mutual Aid: advice and support for non UK citizens

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IfLzSQW9jVOg8zMizp7j8d_ObQevbqE-9wL0QZuqcxY/mobilebasic

Redbridge Foodbank

https://redbridge.foodbank.org.uk/2020/03/17/coronavirus-update/

National Zakat Foundation: If you’re in financial difficulty and need help If you’re worried you’ll struggle to cover basic costs due to being unable to work or losing your income, and you’re eligible for Zakat, they are there to help. And because you can apply online, you can get support without having to leave your home.

  • Apply to our Hardship Relief Fund for essentials such as food, clothing and small debts: https://www.nzf.org.uk/News/ViewArticle/4253

  • Apply to our Housing Fund for help with rent or council tax arrears: https://www.nzf.org.uk/News/ViewArticle/4255

They have experienced Grant Officers are on on-hand to support you.

Council volunteer network launched to support Redbridge community through Covid-19

https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/news/march-2020/council-volunteer-network-launched-to-support-redbridge-community-through-covid-19/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SocialSignIn

London Assembly Information on Covid-19 for non-UK nationals

https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/eu-londoners-hub/information-covid-19-non-uk-nationals

NRPF Network fact sheet on support for the homeless with no recourse to public funds during COVID-19 Pandemic

http://www.nrpfnetwork.org.uk/Documents/coronavirus-factsheet.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0AfelVIGrJrqh89is2q_42ILiTBIkxHlws6IfzZe4cJY_Y__Pn2mwv9xg

British Red Cross help for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/get-help-as-a-refugee

Changes to the Asylum and Immigration Process due to Covid -19

righttoremain.org.uk/changes-to-the-asylum-process-due-to-covid-19/

City Hall health guidance regarding Corvid-19

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-advice/

Government education & free school meals guidance regarding Critical workers and vulnerable children

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers#free-school-meals

Domestic Violence help and support organisations

Domestic Violence has dramatically increased. Police and charities have noticed a spike in domestic-related incidents and offences.

Restrictions may leave people feeling like there is nowhere to turn for help. The police, local and national organisations are working hard to support them.

If you or if you know of someone who are feeling threatened or unsafe or experiencing domestic abuse, most possibly due to enforced social isolation please seek help.

Please refer to the useful numbers below :

Call 999 if you or someone is in danger or report it online www.met.police.uk.

Charities that help.

Advice and support are available for everyone regardless of background, financial situation, nationality or immigration status. 

-Refuge: National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 24/7 freephone 0808 2000 247 www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

-Respect: freephone 0808 802 4040 an anonymous and confidential helpline for men and women who are harming their partners and families www.respectphoneline.org.uk

-Men’s Advice Line: freephone 0808 801 0327 a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic violence and those supporting them www.mensadviceline.org.uk

-Karma Nirvana: freephone 0800 5999 247 Mon to Fri 9 am – 5pm supporting victims of honour-based abuse and forced marriage www.karmanirvana.org.uk.

-Hour Glass: freephone 0808 808 8141 challenging the abuse of older people in all its forms www.wearehourglass.org

-Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline: freephone 0800 999 5428 www.galop.org.uk

-Childline: 0800 1111 If you are a child or young person and domestic abuse is happening in your home or relationship.

Redbridge Council Domestic Violence Service -Reach Out

Redbridge Council has launched Reach Out a new domestic abuse service for any adult who is living in fear of abuse, or being abused. The service also provides help and support for any child who may be witnessing domestic abuse at home.

To support abusers who are struggling to control their behaviour, Reach Out also provides help and an online support programme designed to prevent abuse from reoccurring.

If you are able to, please promote Reach Out in Redbridge by sharing any of the attached digital assets alongside video content via:

  • social media channels

  • WhatsApp groups

  • Redbridge community groups

  • faith groups

  • networks and stakeholders

Please see the following Reach Out victim support and perpetrator support help line numbers and digital media assets:

Victim support digital help media and information:

Help and support is always available for anyone suffering from #DomesticAbuse during isolation in #Redbridge. Find support at www.redbridge.gov.uk/reachout or call 999 if you are in immediate danger. #ReachOut

Reach Out Victim helpline please call : 08001456410 available 9-5pm

Video content available at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_npxs9gSbY

Abuser/Perpetrator digital help media and information :

Are you struggling to manage your behaviour and hurting a loved one? Learn how you can stop the abuse from happening by contacting #ReachOut or find support in #Redbridge at www.redbridge.gov.uk/reachout please call 08001456410

Video content available at - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm8RVSt_wSI or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aZ-Pzuon10

For further information on Reach Out

www.redbridge.gov.uk/reachout

or for full press release details please read https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/news/april-2020/redbridge-council-launches-reach-out-a-new-support-service-for-victims-of-domestic-abuse/

Safer Neighbourhood Teams Ward Contact numbers

Please see the following useful numbers to contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team in your area.

Aldborough

020 8721 2566

07917 013 328

Barkingside

0208 721 2567

07917 013 339

 Bridge

020 8345 3628  

020 8721 2707

07766 247 243

Chadwell

020 8721 2562

07917 013 288

Churchfields

020 8345 3616

Clayhall

020 8345 3433

020 8721 2568

Clementswood

0208 721 2027

07843 291 109

Cranbrook

020 8721 2558

Fairlop

020 8721 2569

07917 013 359

Fullwell

020 8721 2707

07917 013 369

Goodmayes

0208 721 2766

07766 247 240

Hainault

0208 721 2843

07887 628 734

Ilford Town

020 8721 2027

07843 291 109

Loxford

020 8721 2026

07843 291 108

Mayfield

0208 721 2028

Monkhams

020 8721 2564

07917 013 308

Newbury

020 8721 2560

07917 013 268

Seven Kings

020  8721 2563

07917 013 298

South Woodford

020 8345 3637

07887 626 647

Valentines

020  8721 2559

07917 013 258

Wanstead Park

020 8721 2796

07766 247 245

Wanstead Village

020 8721 2561

07917 013 278

Inspirational Women’s Symposium

Notice of Postponement of Event

 

Please be advised of the decision to postpone the finale event planned for Women's History Month -  on Saturday 28th March 2020, due to the rapidly developing Covid-19 crisis.  

 As responsible organisers we wish to exercise a duty of care and to minimise the risks of spread associated with the coronavirus to our invited guest speakers, musicians, performers, stall holders, members of the general public, staff, etc.  

We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused and place on record our thanks and appreciation for your understanding and support in this matter that is beyond our control.  

This event was a collaborative partnership with REDBRIDGE VISION, CULTURE & LEISURE

Please do not hesitate to call to find out more about future events 0208 551 -8178

Looking for advice about

Discrimination  | Harassment  |  Employment

 Welfare Benefits  | Housing | Health

And a wide range of other subjects

We can help you

either by giving you the advice you need or we can tell you where you can go to get good advice

Come along to our

  General Telephone Advice Surgery Drop In
Every Tuesday 12-3pm

call o208 551 8178

Please note if lines are busy we will return your call

Please note due to the Covid-19 crisis we are operating a telephone advice and advocacy service

we can still provide you with vital help and support!

For details please ring 0208 551 8178

If you are a victim of hate crime

please call o208 551 8178

or ring the above number for our out of hours hot line available 6 - 12 pm

7 days per week

‘Say no to hate - Say yes to community’

Remember you are not alone and we are here to give help, support and encouragement in these most challenging circumstances.

Stay safe , Stay well and Stay healthy !

Local Forums - Having your say

We do encourage all of our Redbridge community to participate in the Local Forums organised by Redbridge Council..

At each session, there will be:

  • an opportunity to talk with officers and local ward councillors informally about local issues

  • discussions on the best way to deliver services locally, address residents' concerns and an opportunity to work together to strengthen and empower our communities

  • Also a formal Q&A session with the Leader of the Council

The last Local Forum was held in November 2020.

Please click the link below to access November 2020 Local Forum recordings

https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/about-the-council/local-forum

If you have attended previous meetings you can also give your feedback on these meetings.

If you do wish to give your feedback on a previous Local Forum you have attended please email: engagement @redbridge.gov .uk

Celebrating 50 years of Equalities in Redbridge

7.00 pm, Monday 10 February 2020

  • Third Floor Conference Room, City Gates Church,

    25-29 Clements Road,

    Ilford, IG1 1BH

    A big thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with us .

    February 2020 marked the fiftieth anniversary of the formal registration as a charity of Redbridge Community Relations Council, the direct ancestor of today’s Redbridge Equalities and Community Council.

    On Monday 10 February 2020, we are held a Fiftieth Anniversary Event to celebrate the contribution over the last 50 years of RECC and its predecessors and to provide a chance for everyone involved over the years to meet old friends and former colleagues.

    We had a fantastic buffet and entertainment with contributions on the history and achievements of RECC and its predecessors from founding staff and trustees.

Thank you again to all who came and made our evening celebrations special!

Please also note other events to celebrate our 50th year will also be postponed due to the Covid-19 crisis.

RECC Drumming workshop celebration