#chiswicklocalsspring2020

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Chiswick Nursing Centre: Home From Home

Steve Winter Chiswick Nursing Centre offers compassionate care and excellent facilities in a friendly environment Chatting to Steve Winter, Director of Chiswick Nursing Centre, I hadn’t expected the conversation to turn to Bollywood Wheelchair dancing. ‘Along with the likes of music, art and film nights, it’s been a popular addition to our activity programme,’ he smiles. The Centre, which is tucked away next to Ravenscourt Park, specialises in long-term residential and short-term respite care, 24-hour dementia and palliative nursing and post-operative rehab and convalescence. The building has five nursing floors (they are called suites), all with a comfortable communal lounge, dining room and space in which to socialise or sit quietly. Elderly people no longer able to live independently are in the majority. ‘We aim to create a safe, stimulating home with a real family atmosphere,’ says Steve. ‘Our hotel-quality rooms are en-suite, linen and towels are provided and permanent residents are welcome to bring their own furniture and possessions; we have a lovely garden with hens, a hairdressing salon, sensory room, physio gym and we organise trips to coffee shops, the park and the pub.’

The first step for any prospective new arrival (or their family) is to look around. ‘If they are happy, we then assess the level of nursing input required,’ explains Steve. ‘Everyone has a personal care plan: as well as clinical needs, that covers the time they like to get up, if they prefer a cooked or continental breakfast (chefs prepare a choice of fresh meals on site every day), a bath or shower and which group or individual activities they might enjoy.’ All the nurses are qualified to UK standards and the Centre has its own experienced in-house physio and occupational health team, who assist with rehabilitation from strokes and knee and hip replacements, and excellent links with external therapists and consultants. ‘We treat people as individuals,’ says Steve. ‘If you enjoy a glass of wine at lunch, why not have one? Those little touches make such a difference. As far as possible, our residents live in the way that they always have.’

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Chiswick Estate Agent: Whitman & Co - Chiswick’s Number One Property Team

With 413 years combined residence locally and 235 years property industry experience, no one knows and serves Chiswick better… According to James Matthews, co-founder of Whitman & Co estate agency, there’s no secret to the company’s consistent success in the local market: ‘Our aim has always been to build a close-knit team that focuses solely on Chiswick and, most importantly, knows the area street-by-street. It’s a simple philosophy, but it has stood us in good stead.’ Taken together, Whitman & Co’s 13-person staff has clocked up 413 years of living in the area – it helps that six of them are West London born and bred – and over 235 years experience in the property industry. ‘It was only recently that we sat down to do the maths,’ smiles Sales Director, Chris Chalmers. ‘I must admit, we were surprised by the totals.’

Chris Chalmers No one better epitomises the ‘keep it local’ philosophy than Chris himself, who joined the company in 2002. ‘My great-grandparents bought our family home in Prebend Gardens in 1926; my grandmother moved in when she was eight years-old, my mother was born there and so was I.’

James Matthews James and co-founder Russell Savage met at long-gone estate agency Tyser Greenwood and bought Whitman & Co in 1995 (the company was founded in the 1920s by Colonel Whitman, who was also a coal merchant). Today, together with Chris and Jeremy Day, the newest team member and a Grove Park resident for 29 years, they lead sales, letting and commercial departments from the same office on Turnham Green Terrace.

Russell Savage The Whitman & Co approach clearly still delivers impressive results. According to the latest verified Rightmove statistics, the company is the Chiswick market leader for sales – a position that it has held for over three years – and, since last August, it has also been number one in lettings. ‘With valuations, we are always realistic,’ says Russell. ‘Over the years, I’ve seen countless examples of properties being valued astronomically to secure an instruction. If that’s the case, we pass. We quote figures that we’re convinced we can achieve and that pays dividends in the long run. Also, we’re transparent; we don’t put clients under pressure, we flag up issues and we try to solve them without fuss. If you’re straightforward, people will come back to you.’ Since he started off in the lettings department, Chris has seen the same clients return time and again. ‘What’s fascinating is that you catch up with them at different stages of the property-buying cycle – from rentals to buying a first home and then moving into a family house. Over the last 18 years, I’ve been a part of their lives. That also epitomises what we’re about; customers know that they’ll see a familiar face and receive a friendly service.’ As a successful business, Whitman & Co has always believed in investing in the community, increasing its involvement year on year. ‘We’re always delighted to help if we can,’ says Chris. ‘Currently, we sponsor Chiswick Cricket Club and Chiswick Rugby Club juniors, support the Bedford Park Festival, school fetes and street parties, choirs and charities and, last year, we were delighted to assist Abundance London with the hugely successful Turnham Green piazza project.’

Denise White ‘The Whitman’s way is all about building relationships – that’s why people often pop into the office for a chat and advice about the market. No matter how busy we are, we keep it personal. Longevity is at the core of our business.’

Jeremy Day

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London Tiles: Intceram - Inspirational Tile Solutions

Marble Nouveau (glazed porcelain) by Roca With ranges from the world’s leading manufacturers and it’s own Hugo Ceramicas brand, Intceram delivers the ultimate tile style Since opening a dedicated showroom on the High Road in 2017, Intceram has built an excellent local reputation for its eclectic, high quality product range. Co-owner Peter Hughes has forged close links with factories worldwide to ensure the company offers stylish tiles in effects, sizes and materials (polished, stone, cement, concrete, marble, wood, porcelain) to suit all tastes. Should there be a gap in the portfolio, Peter has an extra string to his bow in the shape of Intceram’s own popular Hugo Ceramicas brand. ‘We design the tiles ourselves – it’s a really enjoyable process – using our detailed knowledge of the market,’ he explains.

Peter Hughes ‘Fashions come and go but, looking ahead, I think the current demand for large-format porcelain floor tiles will continue to grow. We have 1.2 x 1.2 and 2.4 x 1.2 metre sizes and they have been flying out of the door.’ Last year Peter agreed to represent Roca, the prestigious Barcelonabased manufacturer. ‘They approached us, which was very flattering. We supply the collection in exquisite colours and all sizes. Also, our customers are always welcome to visit Roca’s Chelsea gallery, which was designed by Dame Zaha Hadid, to view the tiles in a display environment.’ Whatever the nature and scope of the tiling project – whether it is interior or exterior, decorative or practical – Peter and his Showroom Manager, Manuela Profetto, will advise on products and costs and provide a friendly, informed service that helps customers come to the best decision.

Manuela Profetto

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Maths Tutor: Mathnasium of Chiswick - Solving The Maths Problem

Kristina, Celeste and Capucine Mathnasium provides children with individually tailored teaching that you can count on Emmanuelle Tsoulies was curious when she noticed that Mathnasium had opened on the High Road. It struck a chord with the Grove Park resident because SAT tests were looming for Celeste and Capucine, her 10 year-old non-identical twins. ‘According to their teachers, one of the girls was doing OK in class but lacked confidence in exams and the other was getting behind,’ recalls Emanuelle. ‘We popped in and talked to the Mathnasium team and they explained how their method worked and how it could provide extra support. We thought, why not try it for a month or so and see how it goes?’ The answer was, very well. ‘The teaching was individual and reassuring and the girls enjoyed it – in particular, they were super-excited by the reward system! They both scored an impressive 107 in their SATs and they still go three times a week. Mathnasium has now become part of our family routine. I’d happily recommended it to other parents.’

Kristina Peno Devised by Larry Martinek, an experienced US teacher, Mathnasium has been transforming how children aged 5-16 learn maths for over a decade (there are nearly 1000 centres worldwide). ‘All new students take a customised assessment and that enables us to determine their level of knowledge and devise a personal learning plan,’ explains Kristina Peno, the Manager of the Chiswick centre. ‘Children learn at their own pace, the lessons are oneto- one and they are flexible for the parents – you don’t have to pre-book. We can help with homework and we specialise in preparation for 11+, scholarship and GCSE exams. ‘Of course, all our tutors are maths experts but, most importantly, they are patient, make the learning process fun and create a friendly, positive environment. Also, they are always on hand to check progress and ensure that information is understood and retained.’ Should a little extra encouragement be needed Mathnasium has a reward for achievement policy, with incentives ranging from slime and toys to an iPhone. ‘Of course, getting a phone takes hard work and outstanding results,’ smiles Kristina.’

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Hearing Test - Hearing Aid: Hearing Well - Sound Advice

Paul and Deepak ‘Old-fashioned customer service with no salesmanship. Deepak is a knowledgeable guy with integrity and pride in his work.’ – George Curtis, a patient Hearing aid audiologist Deepak Jagota moved his business in December – and he didn’t travel far. But, while Hearing Well may have only gone five doors down the High Road, there is no comparison in terms of quality and size between the premises. ‘My regulars have come in for appointments and been taken aback – in a positive way! I’ve been able to brand the clinic, I now have a comfortable reception area (Deepak’s charming father, Paul, is in charge of meeting and greeting), four times more space in the testing room and a second room in which I can expand my practice. I’ve been very fortunate.’ Deepak offers a comprehensive range of audiology services, from conducting hearing tests and prescribing hearing aids to micro-suction earwax removal and tinnitus advice. Personal care is at the heart of his approach. ‘I allocate as much time as is necessary to each patient. It’s not a conveyor belt. If someone is a little nervous and needs longer to chat, that’s a pleasure. ‘Equally important, I provide a thorough aftercare package, including a six-monthly “F1 pitstop” to check everything is working well.’ Deepak consistently invests in state-of-the-art testing equipment and, as an independent audiologist, he can choose the most suitable solutions from all the leading manufacturers. ‘If a particular device doesn't prove quite suitable, I can easily recommend an excellent alternative. That flexibility also applies to the cost and cosmetic appearance of the hearing aid.’ In recent years, Deepak has volunteered regularly on audiology charity missions. In 2019, he returned to Armenia, where thousands of people have been treated successfully, for a third visit. ’It's always a wonderful experience. I love what I do. Life is too short to put up with a problem that reduces the joy of connecting with others.’

Hearing Well 40 Chiswick High Road Chiwick W4 1TE 02089946966 [email protected] https://www.hearingwell.co.uk/

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Metropolitan Safe Deposits: Peace Of Mind

Christopher Barrow Metropolitan Safe Deposits ensures your most valuable possessions are safe and secure ‘We know who, what, when and where at all times,’ smiles Christopher Barrow, Chief Executive of Metropolitan Safe Deposits. ‘Those are the critical questions in our business. From multi-layered alarm and surveillance systems to tried and tested physical security, we offer clients an affordable, convenient world-class facility.’ Metropolitan Safe Deposits opened its Chiswick office in July following a 10-month build that required 225 tons of reinforced concrete to create space for two basement vaults made by the industry’s leading manufacturer, Robur Safe. At full capacity, the Swedish company will also supply 8000 safe deposit boxes in 12 different sizes: the smallest, which is perfect for storing small keepsakes, rings or watches, costs £95 p.a (including £10,000 insurance). The sophisticated security network begins with 24/7 CCTV of the perimeter and interior, with the exception of the private viewing cubicles in the vaults. ‘The CCTV is also monitored by our Knightsbridge and St John’s Wood offices,’ explains Christopher. ‘The building itself is equipped with seismic and stress detectors and the “secure area” beyond reception is protected by bullet-resistant airlock doors with magnetic and electronic locks. ‘Client access is controlled by computerverified ID and biometric fingerprint procedures and each safe deposit box (up to three people are registered to each) is opened with two unique keys – no other keys exist for that lock. If a box is re-locked, the ID process must be repeated, so ensuring a proper audit trail. Furthermore, we have our own unique security features: every box is individually alarmed and we are alerted if more than a given number are open at one time.’ Metropolitan Safe Deposits' insurers recently commissioned a rigorous review of security and staff training, making no recommendations for improvement. ‘To the best of our knowledge, this type of vault has never been breached,’ says Christopher. ‘If a system is cut off a back-up is always in place. At a time when banks are exiting the safe custody market, it is vital that independent vaults are able to provide a secure, high quality service to customers.’

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Chiswick Dry Cleaners: Top Hat Chiswick: The Perfect Fit

Anna Kozowska How many times have you put on a favourite item of clothing and found that it doesn’t fit as snugly as it once did? If that sounds familiar, you don’t have to consign the piece to recycling or return it to the wardrobe. Mike Moran, owner of the award-winning Top Hat dry cleaners, offers a professional alteration and repair service. ‘I’ve invested in the latest sewing machines and hemmers and Anna, our experienced in-shop tailoress, has the expertise to deal with most issues. Whether it’s taking up, taking in, letting out, re-lining, patching or stitching, she is happy to advise and will recommend the best options.’ Mike and his team follow the same approach with dry and wet cleaning. ‘We combine our depth of knowledge with new technology to deliver the best finish; for example, we use a microscope linked to a phone or computer to check if a stain is deeply ingrained or on top of the fibres. And, when we’re not sure about a material, we cut off a few fibres and burn them; we can tell what it is by the colour of the flame. Between us, we have 150 years’ industry experience – and that pays dividends.’

Anna Kozowska

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Cookery Classes: Cook Folk - Cooking With Confidence

Louisa Chapman-Andrews Unleash your culinary creativity and nourish your loved ones Louisa Chapman-Andrews founded Cook Folk in 2018 with the aim of teaching her students how to cook without relying on recipes. ‘I encourage everyone to use ingredients imaginatively – and there’s no such thing as making a mistake!’

Louisa, who ran a catering business, worked for grocer Melrose and Morgan and co-wrote Good Food For Your Table: A Grocer’s Guide, specialises in one-to-one classes for students in their own homes. ‘These lessons often start with a Kitchen Edit,’ she explains. ‘I can advise about making the best use of space, streamlining cupboards and equipment and preparing fridge and freezer staples. I then follow a bespoke teaching plan tailored to specific dietary and taste preferences. During the sessions there’s no need to take notes: I provide a follow-up on the tips and techniques, so the student is free to cook and, afterwards, enjoy eating the results. ‘I also host group cookery workshops (for up to five people) in my own kitchen. Each one showcases fresh seasonal ingredients in recipes that can be adapted for any occasion. It’s lovely to help people – whatever their previous culinary experience – to discover the joy of preparing delicious, healthy meals for family and friends.’

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