August 2024 • Vision RCL

Month: August 2024

Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure is excited to announce that our services have been nominated in three categories for the Ilford Business Awards 2024: Ilford Business of the Year, Redbridge Art & Culture Award (with two nominations), and Redbridge Social Value Award.

We invite all who value our services – customers, partners, supporters, colleagues, and local residents – to cast their votes for us!

Ilford Business of the Year

Mildmay Nursery
Mildmay Nursery, rated outstanding twice by Ofsted, provides a nurturing environment for children aged 2-4. They excel in caring for children with special educational needs and support parents with funding and training. Known for their excellent care and long waiting lists, Mildmay Nursery is a beloved community resource and a strong contender for Ilford Business of the Year.

Vote for Mildmay Nursery

Redbridge Art & Culture Award

Culture & Library Development team
Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure invites nominations for the Redbridge Art & Culture Award. The culture & library development team runs hundreds of creative projects throughout the year for all ages. These include crafts for adults, Redbridge outdoor arts theatre, and more. Celebrate our commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of Redbridge.

Vote for Culture & Library Development team

Kenneth More Theatre
An asset to Ilford town centre, Kenneth More Theatre provides a variety of affordable entertainment. The theatre hosts a range of performances, from drama to comedy to family shows, ensuring there is something for everyone. With a focus on community engagement, the theatre also offers workshops and educational programmes. It has been a cornerstone of the local cultural scene, fostering a love for the performing arts in audiences of all ages.

Vote for Kenneth More Theatre

Redbridge Social Value Award

Redbridge Libraries
Redbridge Libraries are vital community hubs, offering a myriad of services from skill development to social support. With 11 libraries serving over 1.3 million visitors annually, they combat loneliness, support digital inclusion, and provide educational opportunities. Their extensive programs ensure every community member has access to resources and support, fostering a thriving, inclusive environment.

Vote for Redbridge Libraries

We welcome your votes from now until the 31 October 2024. Each submission is for one category of awards. You can submit as many nominations for each category as you wish by simply re-visiting this form.

For more information on the Ilford Business Awards, please visit the InIlford website.

Fullwell Cross Library has re-opened today (Thursday 1 August) following the successful completion of phase one of its refurbishment programme, just in time for the summer holidays.

Phase one of the renovations, delivered by Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure, included:

  • The creation of a dynamic new digital makerspace called Lab FX, enabling local communities to experience cutting-edge technologies such as Virtual Reality, Coding, Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Robotics, and 3D printing.
  • Upgrades to digital equipment and WIFI
  • The installation of specialist sensory equipment to support individuals with cognitive challenges
  • More study areas throughout the library and dedicated spaces for group activities and event
  • Fun gaming projections in the children’s library to encourage kids to engage in more physical activity
  • Refurbishment of toilets
  • New book collections

Further improvements and features are still to come in phase two, including:

  • A sensory nook and soft play equipment for the children’s library
  • Graphics on walls
  • Curated ‘hidden museum’ boxes
  • Tablet loaning equipment
  • Refurbishment of library halls and kitchen

The project was supported with funding from Vision, Redbridge Council and the Libraries Improvement Fund administered by Arts Council England. The fund aims to transform public library services across England by upgrading buildings and enhancing digital infrastructure to better meet the evolving needs of users.

Martin Solder, Chair of Vision Trustees, commented:

“Our library staff have worked tirelessly during the closure to transform our much-loved facility in time for the holidays. This community space is central to our summer programme, including the Fabula Reading Challenge and Redbridge Holiday Mega Mix. We are thrilled to re-open and welcome visitors back through our doors. We hope you enjoy the new look of your library and all the exciting new features now available and still to come.”

Cllr Kam Rai, the Leader of Redbridge Council, commented:

“Redbridge is home to some of the best libraries in London and by investing in new facilities and equipment at Fullwell Cross, we’re making sure local people can access everything they need right on their doorstep.

The stunning Grade II listed library can now inspire the next generation with a state-of-the-art technology lab space and a refurbished children’s library. The library has also been made more accessible so everyone can benefit from the improvements.”

We look forward to seeing you at Fullwell Cross Library!

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