Forum Topics

Strike Looms For Ambulance Service In January

The pay for nurses and ambulance staff has not been raised in line with inflation every since the financial crash. They have effectively been subsidising the NHS. And on top of this Jeremy Hunt refused the recommendation of a 1 (just ONE) percent rise made by the NHS independent pay review body earlier this year.What else can they do but strike if no one will listen? They have an excellent case for a rise.

Una Hodgkins ● 4304d0 Comments ● 4304d

Chelsea Academy Sixth Form Open Evening

We would be delighted to meet you at our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 8th January from 6pm.To find out more about our Outstanding Academy please visit http://chelsea-academy.org/sixth_form.

Holly Power ● 4315d0 Comments ● 4315d

Former Council Leader Announces Bid to Become London Mayor

Looking at the photo at the top of the "Team Greenhalgh" sign-up web page, I was surprised and saddened to see that three continuing Tory councillors, including the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, are supporting his candidacy for Mayor of London.This is Stephen Greenhalgh the "bottom pincher", the developer's bosom friend, the demolisher of council estates, the scourge of the urban poor (author of the callous "Principles for Social Housing Reform" Localis pamphlet 2009 (http://www.localis.org.uk/images/localis%20principles%20for%20social%20housing%20reform%20web.pdf) and "Ways out of London" video 2008 - no longer on You Tube!), this supporter of water cannons for the Metropolitan Police, etc...? The list shows that his every instinct is to oppress the weak and control dissent.But Greenhalgh's policies are discredited. At the Council election in May 2014 the electorate rejected the "Conservatives" (more accurately American-style "neo-liberals") because they had by then hung themselves by the rope of their own policies. If moderate conservatives want to regain some credibility it is time that the "old guard" of the extreme right in Hammersmith was, quite simply, disbanded. Charlie Dewhirst and Greg Smith would also do well to distance themselves from Greenhalgh.

Una Hodgkins ● 4319d0 Comments ● 4319d

Local Hospitals "Require Improvement"

Save Our Hospitals has responded to the CQC's report as follows:Overall, this is a disappointing report, but not entirely surprising.The rating of the A&E at St Mary’s as inadequate bears out what we have been saying for some time: problems in the handover area for ambulances; problems with ambulance turnaround times; worrying issues about early discharge; lack of adequate links with primary care services which would keep people out of hospital.Yet the A&E at Charing Cross, marked for closure, is rated as ‘good’.Why are Imperial planning to move the stroke unit, ‘third best performing stroke unit in the country’ according to the CQC, from Charing Cross to St Mary’s?Outpatient services across Imperial’s hospitals are rated as ‘inadequate’. There are concerns about inconsistent cleanliness, infection control and hygiene across the Trust. There are significant backlogs for elective surgery and major staff shortages in some wards with an over-reliance on agency and bank staff. Bed capacity for some areas is a cause for concern. Save Our Hospitals is left wondering why Imperial Health Trust and the CCG should proceed with the largest reorganisation of the NHS before they have got outpatient treatment – increasingly long appointment and then clinic waiting times – sorted. We are told the aim is to treat more people in the community – but outpatient bookings, key to out of hospital services - at all 3 hospitals has not increased capacity to meet patient needs, nor have appropriate additional links with primary care been established – where these currently exist!The management response to the report is worryingly complacent. The CQC has found some serious concerns which cannot be wished away. Imperial College Healthcare Trust needs to get the basics right before embarking on the major reorganisation that is planned across NW London. Already the closure of two small A&Es in the NW London area has caused Imperial to fall dramatically in the league tables for A&E waiting times. To proceed with the demolition of Charing Cross, the sale of 55% of the land and the building of a mini-hospital there with no acute beds and no real A&E, the demolition of 45% of St Mary’s with a major rebuild there and the closure of the Western Eye Hospital is a serious attack on local health provision.SOH is calling for a moratorium on further reorganisation, for a rethink of the proposals and a new consultation based on clear clinical evidence that that reorganisation will work. From the CQC report it seems that current provision is inadequate and now is not the time to reduce the number of beds and close A&Es and move a world class stroke unit to another hospital.

Una Hodgkins ● 4319d0 Comments ● 4319d

Choose the right care this Christmas

People in Hammersmith and Fulham are being encouraged to choose the right care for their need this Christmas to help ease pressure on NHS services.Many common winter illnesses and injuries, such as colds and flu, can be treated at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet containing:-Paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief -Decongestants for cold and flu symptoms such as blocked noses or sinuses-Tablets or liquids to help with heartburn and other digestion problems-Antiseptic wipes for cuts, grazes and minor wounds-Rehydration remedies-A thermometer-Plasters and sterile dressings-AntihistaminesYour local pharmacist can provide professional, confidential advice and treatment without an appointment. You can see a pharmacist for a range of problems including coughs, colds, skin conditions, aches and pains, and stomach complaints or emergency contraception. They may prescribe you with over-the-counter remedies and will be able to advise on medicines that are safe to use with any other medications you are already taking.There are a number of pharmacies open in Hammersmith and Fulham over Christmas. Click on the link below for more information.http://www.hammersmithfulhamccg.nhs.uk/media/14425/hammersmith_and_fulham_nwl_pharmacy_xmas_rota_20141.pdfIf you’re still unsure which care option to choose, NHS 111 is a round-the-clock phone service, free to call from landlines and mobiles. NHS 111 offers expert advice for situations when you need help urgently but it isn’t an emergency.The telephone team are fully-trained and supported by nurses, paramedics and other medical professionals. If they think you should see a healthcare professional, they will direct you to the correct service for your need, including GP practices that are open at weekends.Dr Tim Spicer, chair of Hammersmith and Fulham CCG, said: “During the winter months, an increase in winter illnesses and injuries puts additional pressure on health services, so it’s important to use your NHS wisely.“Self-care is important all year round but can be particularly essential during the winter months. It’s vital to drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated, and be sure to wrap up warm.“We would also encourage people to check in regularly with any neighbours or family members who might be vulnerable in the cold and the dark.“A&Es come under a lot of pressure at this time, so using services sensibly not only means that you will get the most suitable advice or treatment as quickly as possible, it also frees up emergency services for people with life-threatening illnesses or injuries.”

Louisa Elliott ● 4321d0 Comments ● 4321d

'Old Fulham'- The Ideal Christmas Gift

'Old Fulham' By Francis Czucha An Illustrated 20th Century History 112 Pages Of Information & Memories. 230 Photographs. The Ideal Present For Fulham Folk. Can Be Ordered On-Line From Stenlake Publishing Who Deliver Worldwide http://www.stenlake.co.uk/books/view_book.php?ref=748

Francis Czucha ● 4323d0 Comments ● 4323d

Rugby Parking

Are you a reg to the Twickenham Rugby Ground for the matches and need to park?The United Resident Association and the Bridgelink Center are renting out our Car Park on match days.The car park has only 10 parking spaces so first come, its situated on Summerwood Rd, Isleworth Tw7.Cars £15 to park.Please contact me on 07561149063...

Simon Anderson ● 4346d0 Comments ● 4346d

Chelsea and Westminster Report "Raises More Doubt" about Charing Cross A&E Closure

WHY aren't residents of Fulham up in arms about the proposed closure of our local teaching hospital, with a blue-light A&E and 360 acute beds, and the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit (the best in the country!) for the Imperial group of hospitals (Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust)?Residents in Hammersmith certainly are. See www.saveourhospitals.net and our petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/moratorium-on-a-e-closures-and-hospital-reorganisationsPlease sign the petitions for Clive Efford's bill here:https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/back-clive-efford-mp-s-bill-to-save-our-n-h-s-2or here:http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/68064And there are plenty of ways of expressing support. Come to the vigil starting on Thursday 20th November at 7pm outside the House of Commons:http://www.savelewishamhospital.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/nhs-sleepover-with-lewisham-logo.png

Una Hodgkins ● 4359d0 Comments ● 4359d

Babysitting

Please let me know if anyone needs a babysitter.  I can do most evenings and weekends.  I work and live in the local area and have plenty of experience in babysitting for children from 18 months to 15 years. Please contact me on 07769 795 904.

Sophie Rice ● 4382d0 Comments ● 4382d

Tony Hadley, Spandau Ballet tickets available 19 October

I have 2 tickets available for Tony Hadley plus orchestra & special guests doing hits of Spandau Ballet at Theatre Royal Drury Lane on Sunday 19th October. Stalls Row J. Cost me £80 each. Will sell for £60 each ONO. Please PM me if interested

Terry Coyne ● 4387d0 Comments ● 4387d

Protests at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust AGM

There were angry scenes at the Imperial AGM. Ross Lydall of the Evening Standard correctly recorded them in his blog of 26th September at   https://rosslydall.wordpress.com/2014/09/26/charing-cross-sell-off-vital-to-avoid-disastrous-pfi-deal-insists-hospital-chairman/The most salient parts of his report are:Sir Richard, fighting back against hostility from Save Our Hospitals campaigners at Imperial’s AGM on September 24, told them: “We don’t have any choice. We have a 19th century, 18th century estate on one of our sites [St Mary’s], trying to deliver healthcare to the best possible quality for your benefit.“If we don’t do that we will be in serious, serious trouble. There will be all sorts of problems. We have to rebuild our estate for your benefit, not for mine.”There were gasps of "But why demolish Charing Cross which dates from 1974, and is just 40 years old!"Andy Slaughter, Labour MP for Hammersmith, challenged Dr Tracey Batten, Imperial’s chief executive, to guarantee that “there will be no further closures or run-down of services, particularly at Charing Cross, unless and until you can demonstrate there is not a demand for these services”. He added: “Not to do that will be incredibly irresponsible.”Dr Batten said the trust was “guided by our clinicians” in all the proposed changes. She said: “We can only change the number of beds within our facilities when these community services are established. That is the way we need to work.”

Una Hodgkins ● 4389d0 Comments ● 4389d

Looking for Frank Smith and Terry Smith

Dear All,My name Olivia from Indonesia.I'm looking my old friend who live in fulham area as I lost contact with them.His name is Frank Smith about 44 year old and his son is Terry Smith 7 year old.Please do contact me if you know Frank and Terry.My contact is oliviachandra88@yahoo.co.idThanks

olivia chandra ● 4389d0 Comments ● 4389d

Fulham Memories On Robert Elms Radio Programme

Am still being contacted by folk who missed my appearance on the Robert Elms Show on BBC Radio London.You can listen to a podcast via the following link: http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/london/elms/elms_20140815-1500c.mp3

Francis Czucha ● 4434d0 Comments ● 4434d

Woman in Black - 4 tickets for Thurs 28th August

Anyone interested in 4 tickets for the Woman in Black on Thurs 28th August at 8pm bought as part of Kids Week special offer ie 2x £47.50 adult tickets and 2 free kids tickets - total £95 Ono accepted. Seats are in stalls Row K.  Sadly we can no longer go.

Claire Miller ● 4435d0 Comments ● 4435d

'Old Fulham' Book

If you are interested in what Fulham was like before it became gentrified during the 1970s and 1980s then this book is for you.It is packed with 112 pages of information and memories and contains over 230 photographs. It includes pictures of many former corner shops,factories,local schools,cinemas and theatres and the famous North End Road street market. There are traditional business families like the Mancinis with their boxing themed pubs and the ice cream producing Scalas and Santillis. 'Old Fulham' has already sold well and makes the perfect gift. It can be ordered from Stenlake Publishing  http://www.stenlake.co.uk or from Amazon.

Francis Czucha ● 4438d0 Comments ● 4438d

Development at Swedish Wharf and Comley's Wharf

Ptarmigan are flying a kite with this planning application. Both wharves are safeguarded under the London Plan and both are in active use every day. The new Council will be more keen to protect businesses Fuel Oils and CEMEX) and jobs. Has Ptarmigan heard of the change of administration?

Una Hodgkins ● 4472d0 Comments ● 4472d

Unsolved Hammersmith murders 1959-1965

Posted by: Neil MilkinsDate/Time: 08/07/14 17:50:00Since May 2014 there have been nearly 22,000 hits on youtube of the Sky TV documentary Harold Jones - The Welsh Serial Killer. I am convinced that former Fulham, Puntney and Hammersmith resident Harold Jones was responsible for 8 unsolved murders in the Hammersmith district between 1959 and 1965, which includes 3 at Chiswick. The 45 minute documentary can be accessed via the Internet by googling Harold Jones - killer. Pass the word darlings! If anyone remembers Jones who also used the name Harry Stevens please contact me via the forum or at n.milkin@sky.com Regards. Neil Milkins. Author of Every Mother's Nightmare - Abertillery in Mourning and Who was Jack the Stripper? The Hammersith Nudes' Murders.

Neil Milkins ● 4476d0 Comments ● 4476d

Bishop's Park Farmers Market THIS Sunday

Bishop's Park Farmers and Fine Foods Markets aim is to bring fresh and delicious farm and locally sourced produce to the residents of Fulham. Trading as RMS Markets.FREE FACE PAINTING this Sunday from 10 until 2 The market is a family-friendly venture which caters for all tastebuds and pockets and will be held on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday of every month!www.rmsmarkets.co.uk

Ross Spurrier ● 4493d0 Comments ● 4493d

Former Community Centre Becomes Four Multi-Million Pound Homes

Isn't the developer required to submit a new planning application for such a radically different scheme? The previous scheme of 9 smaller houses would obviously fit in better with the surrounding 2- and 3-storey Victorian terraced housing. Why build luxury homes which will stick out a mile and which are not protected by high walls, fancy automatic gates, concierges, etc....?

Una Hodgkins ● 4501d1 Comments ● 4500d

Help and companionship for the elderly

We are looking for individuals interested in using a new service: 'HomeFriends' (www.homefriends.co.uk). HomeFriends is a matching service, bringing together (i) elderly people, living alone, and (ii) younger live-in lodgers, typically students or young professionals. In return for a rent-free bedroom, these younger lodgers commit to spend at least 10 hours a week helping with everyday tasks such as cleaning, shopping, as well as just providing good, old-fashioned company. All live-in Homesharers are not only comprehensively background-checked (DBS criminal record, identity check, adverse history check, education & employment checks), but are also interviewed by us before meeting anyone on the Host side. We select only the best candidates. No money ever changes hands between Hosts and Homesharers. In addition, we are also waiving all fees for now. To learn more, either reply to this email or sign up on the website (www.homeshare.co.uk) and we will be in touch to explain the process.

Alexander Brunicki ● 4505d0 Comments ● 4505d