Minutes of WCA meeting 4/11/24
Present [Recorded separately]
Apologies for absence. [Recorded separately]
- Joining FOE
We have now had what this would mean clarified. We do not have to lose our identity as Wanstead Climate Action in any way. We get public liability insurance, support and materials to run Local FOE campaigns if we choose. The meeting generally supported this idea. Individuals can take part in any action, but anything spicy planned in the name of WCA would need the agreement of the WCA steering committee. If anyone would like more info or to comment or object please get in touch and decision to be made by 30th November. Action all & Kathy to contact FOE
- Warm homes campaign:
2a FOE strategy includes decorating scarves or knitting patterns in scarves with a view to taking them to a stunt at Parliament at the end of the winter. Possible activity day at Stone Space in Leytonstone. Action RoseMary
2b In October the government announced a new scheme for local authorities to retrofit low income homes in England . This is a win for the warm Homes campaign which we have been involved in for two years. Local authorities have until 1st December to apply for this funding. Karen to raise this with Jo Blackman.
- Calvin BAILEY lobby. Calvin has replied to Kathy’s email which was a follow-up to the meeting we had in September. The reply was fairly positive and he thanked us for educating him. This should lead the way to future meetings. He is busy with urgent local issues at the moment. Cedric pointed out that this should be separate to his parliamentary work. Could follow up with a letter or/and a Christmas card. Action Cedric.
- Film evening
The idea of showing one or a series of environmental films at the Methodist Church hall was discussed. Giles Wilson will get back to Kathy about renting the hall. Various films were discussed. Don’t Look Up, Franklin, 2040, Fashion Reimagined, River, Food Inc 2. (see Together Films for more info on these last 4) the idea would be to have a speaker or discussion or a linked event or all three depending on the night of the week or weekend and budget. RoseMary mentioned some films shown by Leytonstone Transition which we could also consider -all depending on costs, et . Action Kathy initial research. Anne H, Eamon, Diane, Karen offered to help/subgroup.
- Invite Jo Blackman to next meeting. Action Karen
Questions for her? Ask her to report on the Climate Action plan. And anything else she wishes to report to us. (School Streets/ insulation/ biodiversity in the borough)
Action: all Send questions to Karen
- Tech team are currently under pressure and possibly lacking in skills. (Although Paul says it’s easy to add to /Amend website). Diane agreed to do some Instagram posting to take pressure off Kathy. Action Kathy to send PWs to Diane.
James said best to post at least once a week to keep algorithms up. Hashtags not massively important but more so if you’re a small group. (that’s us, so hashtags might be useful) . We are on the lookout for someone who’d like to take on the website with passion! Anyone want to do some more FB postings esp on Wanstead Hub and WCA site. Yes a tech team would be great. Any offers email WCA.
Newsletter has drawn more attention/response and had a 45% opeing rate in forst week than mailouts. Paul to produce next newsletter with Karen. Please send content to Paul. Deadline?
- Discussion
Eamon pointed out one of the most important things we can all do is talk about climate issues to our friends and… even strangers! He is compiling a spreadsheet which he will share on WhatsApp.
It was suggested that we all compile a question/statement or two that we have found difficult difficult to respond to so that we can discuss or practice a response. This may require a separate meeting, specially if JB is coming to next one.
- Pollinator pathways . Karen to write something for newsletter.
- Budget 24. A short discussion
- AOB
COP 29. March for global climate justice. Saturday 16th November. Start 12 pm Great Russell Street London. See What’s App for meet up requests/ suggestions.
Date of next meeting December date tbc
Wanstead Climate Action 