Where is the Time Bank based?
The Hilldrop and Caledonian Road Time Bank is run from The Hilldrop Community Centre, which is at the heart of five local authority housing estates in North West Islington. The Community Centre is managed by members of local Tenants and Residents Associations and other interested groups and individuals.

What activities are Time Bank members involved in?
Time Bank members work with under 5's and their families and run after school and holiday play schemes. They are also involved in work with young people and the elderly and community outreach work. The community centre's strong links to the community and widespread support are of great help in the creation of Time Banking opportunities which will meet the needs of local residents.

Islington runs a recycling scheme, but there are limited facilities available to those living in flats. Street based recycling facilities are often located away from blocks of flats: In the Westbourne Estate area, Time Bank members can take part in a household recycling scheme. Since August 2002, a Household Recycling Collection service, for residents not included in Islington councils doorstep recycling scheme, has collected half a tonne of recycled material, such as paper, tin cans, glass bottles, jars and clothes.

The photograph left shows a representation of Walnut Wood created, using paper, by children at the Community Centre. The Walnut Wood project is an example of Time Banking, where a small wood next to the Community Centre that had been derelict for at least 20 years, is being developed into a children's play area. The project started as a way to encourage local children to take an interest in the environment and was named after a beautiful old Walnut tree, found in the previously overgrown Wood.

The children's group planned what they would like to see in their space. They agreed upon swings, a den, a tree platform, and microenvironments in which to watch insects, animals and fungus. The children meet on Thursdays, in the after school club and have recently been making relief insect tiles to decorate the garden wall. Volunteers, including people from nearby St Mungo's sheltered housing, cleared debris from the Wood and in the process formed positive community links.
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How can I become involved in the Time Bank?
If you would like more information about the Hilldrop and Caledonian Road Time Bank or to enquire about becoming involved go to Contact Details