Brent's population growth grossly underestimated

With the publication of the Census 2011 data in July, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) have at last accepted that they have been grossly undercounting the growth in our population since 2001. Instead of their original 257,000 estimate, they now accept that the real figures are more like 312,000. That's about 55,000 less than we actually have! For ten years now, they have grossly underestimated the inward migration to the borough, basing their calculations on birth and death rates only.

While the government bases its formula for grants to the Borough on these statistics, we are advised that the actual impact on grants received since 2001 has not been as great as might be feared. This is said to be because Brent was protected by the operation of the government funding mechanism known as 'floors and ceilings', which were designed to moderate significant variations in allocations between local authorities based on population changes. Don't ask us to explain this jargon, but our best financial and policy brains assure us that it is so.

But if nothing else, it highlights the lack of transparency in the distribution of our national taxes to local councils by government. As a result, nobody quite knows whether the system is fair or not. If the ONS experts can get it wrong by so much for so long, god only knows what is happening in government departments. The West Coast Railway debacle in the Ministry of Transport strengthens this fear.

In the meantime, wealthy boroughs like Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster and the City of London, are claiming that the latest (2011) statistics underestimate their numbers. This is contested strongly by the Office of National Statistics, but as these boroughs 'have the ear' of this government, are we likely to see these three boroughs get their way  at our expense as they did a few years ago? That is why  Brent and the twenty (out of 33) other London boroughs who have seen a steady increase in their populations and demand for services, will be lobbying the government to increase their funding, rather than cutting it by 28% as they are doing.

Shabana Abbassi - a role model for our community

We don't normally highlight the role of individuals, only news, events and issues.

However,I would like to make an exception to mark the passing of a remarkable human being, who
touched the lives of the children, parents, teachers and governors of  Oliver Goldsmith primary school as well as those of her own family and community.

Shabana died recently of pancreatic cancer at the oh so young age of 37, after a long illness. A memorial service was held at the school on Friday 5th October which I attended along with
many parents, teachers and governors. As is the custom at such events, there were prayers and many heart-felt tributes but one by her friend Rehana captured her spirit and contribution to the school.

She recalled that Shabana had stormed into Olly Golly with her three children a few years ago and quickly stamped her bubbly personality on all she came in contact with. She brought together mums from all religions and countries and gave them confidence and a voice. Naturally, she was soon expected to stand as a parent governor and Rehana recalled her wonderful way of chivvying her and other parents to vote to improve the school.

I can confirm that as a governor Shabana was a revelation - active in everything, social (her cooking was legendary) as well as educational. But it was her sharp and persistent contributions to governors' debates which I recall best. Once roused, she would not let go but pressed her (usually valid) case in a polite but forceful way. She got support and changed the way we do things.

Had she been spared, I have no doubt that in time she would have made a great councillor or perhaps more. But what a wonderful role model for young (not just Muslim) girls and women in our society.
Our deepest sympathy must go to her husband and three young children, but they should know that they and this community have been enriched by Shabana's wonderful personality and work.

Cllr Jim Moher

Kingsbury Bowls Club

Kingsbury Bowls Club is looking for new members, are you interested?
Coaching and loan of bowls is available. Why not give it a try?

Where to meet - Eton Grove Open Space.

Fryent Councillors
Working for you in Fryent.

BENEFIT CUTS – DOES THIS AFFECT YOU?

If you are receiving some form of benefit you are likely to see reductions in the amount you receive next year in April 2013.

The government ismaking radical reforms to change the welfare system, many people are already losing out.

Council Tax benefit is being replaced by Council tax support – a Government inspired scheme. 

Brent Council estimates over 21 thousand families will have their benefit reduced.

Will you be one of them – check this out now!

www.brent.gov.uk/welfarereform

Fryent Councillors

KINGSBURY AND KENTON AREA FORUM - BRENT CONNECTS

Come and discuss the local issues that concern you at your next meeting.

Kingsbury High School, Princess Ave   10^th October Starting at 7.00pm

Your Area Forum is changing and in future it will be known as Brent Connects Kingsbury and Kenton.

Why is it changing? The aim is to get more residents engaged with what’s happening 

in their local community. They will be more interactive, feature “Question Time” style sessions.

Fryent Councillors said ”It is vital that we listen to local people and get more people involved and in what’s going on in their local area.”

MEET OLYMPIC HOCKEY STAR IN KINGSBURY

Harrow Hockey Club is promising a fun packed afternoon at their Open Day on Saturday 1^st Sept.

It’s being held at JFS School in the Mall, Kingsbury between 1 pm and 4 pm

Whether you are getting back into hockey or starting for the first time, there will be something for everyone.

Also come along and meet Team GB Olympic Hockey star Dan Fox.

• For more information visit www.harrowhockey.co.uk

 INSPIRE A GENERATION

St Robert Southwell School Expansion Approved

Brent Council Executive have agreed to the expansion of St Robert Southwell RC Primary School when the results of a statutory consultation exercise were reported on Monday night (20^th August) . The school plan to start work on the building project soon which will provide much needed reception places for Catholic children in the Kingsbury area from Sept 2013.

Some residents expressed concern during the consultation exercise that parking problems will increase. The Schools Headteacher and Chair of Governors have promised local ward Councillors that they take vigorous steps to stop inconsiderate parking by parents.

Plans have already been approved and the building work estimated to cost 1.4 million will be paid for by the Council with a contribution from the school. 

Cllr George Crane