Latest news with #StGiles
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Tastes of the world: Discover these fantastic local restaurants
Allow your tastebuds to explore the delights and delicacies of different cultures, all from the comfort of your own town! Which of these brilliant, local destinations will you be trying first? A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Oxford Tucked away on St Giles', the Old Parsonage Hotel is one of Oxford's most enchanting retreats — a place where centuries-old history and discreet luxury come together seamlessly. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, the hotel's honey-coloured stone walls and ivy-draped façade make it feel like a timeless secret hidden in plain sight. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and intimate. Each of the 35 bedrooms is individually designed, combining traditional English charm with modern comforts like plush Egyptian cotton bedding, marble bathrooms, and carefully chosen artwork. The result is a stay that feels personal, characterful and quietly indulgent. At the heart of the hotel is the Parsonage Grill, a favourite among locals and visitors. Its walls lined with striking oil portraits create an elegant yet relaxed setting for classic British dishes and indulgent afternoon teas. When the weather allows, the walled terrace becomes one of Oxford's loveliest spots to unwind. Guests can curl up with a book in the private library, borrow a vintage bicycle to explore Oxford's colleges and parks, or simply soak up the atmosphere that makes this place feel more like a grand private home than a hotel. Perfectly positioned for discovering Oxford's iconic spires, museums, and hidden lanes, the Old Parsonage Hotel is a haven for travellers seeking a blend of history, comfort, and genuine charm — a place that feels both deeply Oxford and delightfully one-of-a-kind. W: At JinJin Chinese Restaurant, we believe food is more than just a meal — it's a connection to culture, family, and tradition. Since opening our doors in 2018, we've proudly served the Oxford community with authentic, high-quality Chinese cuisine for over seven years. Our signature dish, the Chongqing hotpot, brings friends and families together around a bubbling pot of rich, spicy broth, fresh ingredients, and unforgettable flavours. We also serve traditional favourites like our house special braised pork belly with pak choi, Sichuan-style sliced beef in hot chilli oil, and aubergine with spicy garlic sauce — each prepared with care and authenticity. For those who enjoy British-Chinese classics, our menu features beloved dishes such as sweet and sour chicken, chicken chow mein, and Yangzhou fried rice. A message from Vicky, the owner: 'I started JinJin in 2018 with a simple wish — to share the real taste of Chinese food that I grew up with. I'm so grateful for our customers who have supported us all these years, and I look forward to welcoming more people into our little food family.' Whether you're dining in, picking up takeaway, or celebrating a special occasion, we offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service that makes every visit feel like home. You can reserve a table, order delivery, or arrange collection directly through our website: W: Untraditionally British dining in Oxford At Treadwell, we invite you to experience British dining as you've never tasted it before. Nestled in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, our restaurant celebrates local, seasonal produce with unexpected twists inspired by Oxford's rich tapestry of cultures. Our menus are playful yet rooted in tradition — from a refined seasonal set menu perfect before a show at the New Theatre Oxford, to a relaxed Sunday lunch where we trade roasts for slow-smoked platters designed for sharing. Every dish is crafted to surprise, delight, and showcase the best of Britain in new and delicious ways. Step inside and find a warm, welcoming space where flavour and creativity meet. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch, dinner with friends, or a pre-theatre bite, Treadwell is a place to savour something different — proudly British, yet refreshingly untraditional. Expect the unexpected. Taste the season. Discover Treadwell. W: Pasta the way it should be At 100% Pasta, we're on a mission to bring you real Italian pasta, made the traditional way — simple, fresh, and packed with honest flavour. Inspired by Italy's time-honoured recipes and vibrant food culture, we craft every dish with care, using the finest ingredients and classic techniques. From silky tagliatelle and pillowy gnocchi to rich, slow-cooked sauces, every plate is a celebration of pure, authentic taste. Whether you're craving a quick comforting lunch, a relaxed dinner with friends, or hearty takeaway for home, 100% Pasta delivers the true taste of Italy — no shortcuts, no compromises. Join us and discover why real pasta is all about quality, generosity, and a love for good food shared. Because when it comes to pasta, we believe it should always be 100% real, 100% fresh, and 100% delicious. W: Discover the heart of Polish hospitality At Polish Kitchen, we bring the warmth and flavour of Poland straight to your table. Our family-run restaurant celebrates traditional Polish recipes passed down through generations, lovingly prepared with the finest local and imported ingredients. From comforting pierogi and hearty bigos to delicate soups and freshly baked breads, every dish tells a story of home, heritage, and hearty hospitality. Whether you're seeking a nostalgic taste of Poland or discovering these timeless flavours for the first time, Polish Kitchen welcomes you with open arms and generous plates. Enjoy a cosy meal with friends and family, or take our authentic dishes home to share. With a passion for genuine Polish cooking and a warm, inviting atmosphere, Polish Kitchen is more than just a place to eat — it's a place to gather, celebrate, and savour the best of Polish tradition, right here in the UK. W: Experience authentic Indian flavours Located in the heart of Kidlington, Ovisher Indian Restaurant offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience. With a commitment to excellence, Ovisher combines outstanding customer service with exceptional cuisine, prepared by one of the finest chefs in the culinary world. Only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients are used to craft each dish. Alongside beloved traditional favourites, the menu features a variety of unique house specialities that showcase the creativity and skill of the kitchen. The result is a delicious blend of classic and contemporary Indian flavours that cater to all tastes. Ovisher also places a strong focus on healthy cooking, aiming to minimise additives while maximising authentic taste. Whether you're enjoying a quiet dinner for two or celebrating with friends and family, Ovisher offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable food. Join us for Banquet Nights every Tuesday, and let us cater your parties or special occasions with care and flavour. Tel: 01865 372827 / 378884 W: 11-13 Oxford Road, Kidlington, OX5 2BP
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Yahoo
Murderer worked in schools after being barred
A convicted murderer spent almost two years working with children after he was barred from doing so, the BBC has learned. Rashid Zaman, 44, from Bradford, West Yorkshire, served 15 years in prison for killing a man who tried to stop him and two others stealing a car in Halifax in 2001. After his release, he began volunteering with the national charity, St Giles Trust, in 2021, and later became a paid employee who visited schools and young people's homes. The charity said Zaman, who has not responded to the BBC's attempts to contact him, did not tell them he had been barred from working with children and that he was dismissed as soon as senior management found out. The BBC has seen both of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificates that St Giles asked Zaman to provide. The first, from 2021, did not say he was barred from working with children. But the most recent one, issued in March 2023, did say he was barred. St Giles said its senior management was not aware of the outcome of the most recent DBS check until December 2024, which meant Zaman continued in his role - and had contact with 28 children - after being barred. The charity said it "deeply regret[s] the oversight". Zaman and two other men from Bradford were convicted of stabbing father-of-two Kevin Jackson in the head with a screwdriver, and beating him with a piece of wood near his home after he tried to stop the group from stealing his father-in-law's car. At the time the judge called the murder "a cowardly and horrific act". Zaman was given a life sentence and was released from prison in 2017. Four years later he started work at St Giles, which is one of nearly 1,500 registered charities in England and Wales working with ex-offenders across the country to help rebuild their lives. An enhanced DBS check would show up any previous convictions and whether or not someone has been barred from working with children. It is seen as a vital part of safeguarding for organisations, and is required when anyone applies for a job with access to vulnerable people such as in teaching, social work and health services. A former staff member, who wants to remain anonymous, told the BBC that St Giles's safeguarding in this case was "appalling", adding: "Clearly something is going wrong." They said Zaman went into "about three" schools, sometimes alone, as part of the charity's SOS project in Yorkshire. The early intervention programme prevents young people falling into criminal activity, and is delivered by ex-offenders as part of their reintegration back into society. The source said Zaman "was doing outreach work, supporting young people in school and would liaise with families and carry out home visits". The source called for the charity to put stricter measures in place. "I feel really upset and annoyed because they are not just putting the young people at risk, they are putting staff at risk too," the ex-employee said. The DBS did not tell the BBC why he was allowed to work with children in 2021 and then barred in 2023, as it does not comment on individual cases. It said serious offences committed after 2006 may lead to someone being automatically barred from working with children, but that offences committed before that time would lead to a discretionary barring investigation. Not all murderers are necessarily barred from working with children – some will be able to appeal and persuade the DBS that they should not be on the barred list. But it is an offence for someone on a barred list to undertake "regulated activity" with a group from which they are barred. They may face a fine or a jail sentence of up to five years. People on barred lists can still do up to three days of teaching or training with children in any 30-day period, in certain circumstances. It is not clear whether Zaman exceeded these limits. West Yorkshire Police said it had launched a criminal investigation. The BBC understands Zaman was recently arrested. DBS checks are issued directly to individuals, not the organisation requesting them, but a DBS spokesperson said it was the responsibility of employers to review employees' certificates. St Giles refused to answer when the BBC asked which schools Zaman had visited, how often, and whether parents had been informed. A spokesperson said Zaman did not tell the charity about being barred, which meant he continued to work with children. "This should never have happened," they added. "As soon as we became aware, we launched an internal investigation and re-checked all Yorkshire staff working with children, with no further concerns found. We have since strengthened our internal processes to ensure this cannot happen again and deeply regret the oversight." The spokesperson said the charity had an "unwavering commitment to safeguarding" and had "immediately" reported itself to both the Local Authority Designated Officer and to the Charity Commission. They said after the incident, it reviewed the DBS checks of all of its employees working with children in Yorkshire and "no further issues" were identified. They added: "Every person we employ undergoes rigorous risk assessments and criminal background checks, and each one is deeply committed to using their own experiences to help others. "Evidence shows that lived-experience programmes like ours reduce offending by 21%, while also providing meaningful employment that allows people to give back to their communities." The national charity's income increased from £18.4m in 2022-23 to £21m in 2023-24 – with millions of pounds of funding coming from government grants and contracts. It has received almost £400,000 from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority since 2020, for local projects. Alison Lowe, the region's deputy mayor for policing and crime, said she would not comment specifically on St Giles. But she said suspending funding was one step the council might take against an organisation being investigated for an alleged DBS breach. She said safeguarding was "the number one most important issue" for any public authority. Asked if it was an individual's responsibility to inform an employer if their DBS said they were barred, she said: "I think it's absolutely critical that the employer gets a copy of that document so that together they can make the right decision and keep our communities safe, and particularly keep our children and young people safe." The Charity Commission said it was investigating after St Giles reported a serious incident. A spokesperson said it had opened a regulatory compliance case and it was "assessing the information to determine our next steps". Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here. Car theft killers jailed for life St Giles Trust Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
BBC News
04-03-2025
- BBC News
Bradford: Murderer worked in schools despite ban
A convicted murderer spent almost two years working with children after he was barred from doing so, the BBC has Zaman, 44, from Bradford, West Yorkshire, served 15 years in prison for killing a man who tried to stop him and two others stealing a car in Halifax in his release, he began volunteering with the national charity, St Giles Trust, in 2021, and later became a paid employee who visited schools and young people's charity said Zaman, who has not responded to the BBC's attempts to contact him, did not tell them he had been barred from working with children and that he was dismissed as soon as senior management found out. The BBC has seen both of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificates that St Giles asked Zaman to provide. The first, from 2021, did not say he was barred from working with children. But the most recent one, issued in March 2023, did say he was Giles said its senior management was not aware of the outcome of the most recent DBS check until December 2024, which meant Zaman continued in his role - and had contact with 28 children - after being charity said it "deeply regret[s] the oversight".Zaman and two other men from Bradford were convicted of stabbing father-of-two Kevin Jackson in the head with a screwdriver, and beating him with a piece of wood near his home after he tried to stop the group from stealing his father-in-law's the time the judge called the murder "a cowardly and horrific act".Zaman was given a life sentence and was released from prison in years later he started work at St Giles, which is one of nearly 1,500 registered charities in England and Wales working with ex-offenders across the country to help rebuild their lives. An enhanced DBS check would show up any previous convictions and whether or not someone has been barred from working with is seen as a vital part of safeguarding for organisations, and is required when anyone applies for a job with access to vulnerable people such as in teaching, social work and health services.A former staff member, who wants to remain anonymous, told the BBC that St Giles's safeguarding in this case was "appalling", adding: "Clearly something is going wrong."They said Zaman went into "about three" schools, sometimes alone, as part of the charity's SOS project in Yorkshire. 'Young people at risk' The early intervention programme prevents young people falling into criminal activity, and is delivered by ex-offenders as part of their reintegration back into source said Zaman "was doing outreach work, supporting young people in school and would liaise with families and carry out home visits".The source called for the charity to put stricter measures in place."I feel really upset and annoyed because they are not just putting the young people at risk, they are putting staff at risk too," the ex-employee said. The DBS did not tell the BBC why he was allowed to work with children in 2021 and then barred in 2023, as it does not comment on individual said serious offences committed after 2006 may lead to someone being automatically barred from working with children, but that offences committed before that time would lead to a discretionary barring all murderers are necessarily barred from working with children – some will be able to appeal and persuade the DBS that they should not be on the barred it is an offence for someone on a barred list to undertake "regulated activity" with a group from which they are barred. They may face a fine or a jail sentence of up to five on barred lists can still do up to three days of teaching or training with children in any 30-day period, in certain circumstances. It is not clear whether Zaman exceeded these Yorkshire Police said it had launched a criminal investigation. The BBC understands Zaman was recently arrested. 'This should never have happened' DBS checks are issued directly to individuals, not the organisation requesting them, but a DBS spokesperson said it was the responsibility of employers to review employees' Giles refused to answer when the BBC asked which schools Zaman had visited, how often, and whether parents had been informed.A spokesperson said Zaman did not tell the charity about being barred, which meant he continued to work with children."This should never have happened," they added."As soon as we became aware, we launched an internal investigation and re-checked all Yorkshire staff working with children, with no further concerns found. We have since strengthened our internal processes to ensure this cannot happen again and deeply regret the oversight."The spokesperson said the charity had an "unwavering commitment to safeguarding" and had "immediately" reported itself to both the Local Authority Designated Officer and to the Charity said after the incident, it reviewed the DBS checks of all of its employees working with children in Yorkshire and "no further issues" were added: "Every person we employ undergoes rigorous risk assessments and criminal background checks, and each one is deeply committed to using their own experiences to help others."Evidence shows that lived-experience programmes like ours reduce offending by 21%, while also providing meaningful employment that allows people to give back to their communities." Employer involvement 'critical' The national charity's income increased from £18.4m in 2022-23 to £21m in 2023-24 – with millions of pounds of funding coming from government grants and has received almost £400,000 from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority since 2020, for local Lowe, the region's deputy mayor for policing and crime, said she would not comment specifically on St Giles. But she said suspending funding was one step the council might take against an organisation being investigated for an alleged DBS said safeguarding was "the number one most important issue" for any public if it was an individual's responsibility to inform an employer if their DBS said they were barred, she said: "I think it's absolutely critical that the employer gets a copy of that document so that together they can make the right decision and keep our communities safe, and particularly keep our children and young people safe."The Charity Commission said it was investigating after St Giles reported a serious incident.A spokesperson said it had opened a regulatory compliance case and it was "assessing the information to determine our next steps".Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.
