It was gut-wrenching to see the distress and confusion the downgrading of A-levels caused for so many students in Southwark and across the country. At the same time, I was so proud to see young people speak so eloquently about their dismay at the process.
The overdue decision to revert to teacher grades was welcome, but for many young people challenges remain as they seek their next step into employment, training or university. The council will continue to work with schools to ensure students get the support they need during this difficult time.
Against a backdrop of these unprecedented challenges our young people have performed exceptionally well and achieved some amazing results. They deserve the highest praise and my thanks go to teachers, parents and everyone who has supported them. I also wish GCSE students the very best of luck as they get their results this week.
Get a test as soon as possible if you have coronavirus symptoms (a high temperature, a new persistent cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste). You must also must self-isolate, as should members of your household and anyone in your support bubble. A testing centre will be in Burgess Park on various days in August, but you must book online first.
Learn how to make your own face covering
Face coverings are now compulsory on all public transport and in shops. Remember some people are exempt from wearing face coverings for health reasons, but if you can wear one, please don’t leave home without it. Find out how to make a face covering.
Join our online resident panel
We have made it easier for more people who live in council homes to get involved in decisions about council housing. One way is to join our online resident panel. This gives you the opportunity to get involved in decisions that affect you and where you live.
New Channel 4 programme ‘Council House Britain’ goes behind the scenes in Southwark
This autumn, a documentary looking at housing in Southwark will be broadcast on Channel 4. The six part series follows Southwark Council officers, and the tenants and leaseholders they work with, in a fly on the wall documentary by the makers of 24 hours in A&E. Officers from housing and pest control feature heavily in the series, all touching on the challenges of helping to manage 55,000 properties in inner London, following years of austerity. Many Southwark tenants and leaseholders also feature, and tell their personal stories about their lives in Southwark, with real passion, humour and emotion.
Funding is now available for Black History Month 2020. Things are a little different this year, but if you have a great idea for an online event or one with social distancing you can apply for funding now.
If you have a spare room and have a flexible job, and if you’re energetic and a good listener, you could consider becoming a foster carer. You can also register for a virtual information evening on 16 September at 6pm by emailing fostering@southwark.gov.uk.
Influence how cultural diversity is reflected in Southwark
Join an online community and panel debate on Thursday 20 August from 12 noon to 1pm. The event will explore how we can work together to better reflect and celebrate cultural diversity publicly across the borough. Book a free place for the event and submit a question for the panel
Tabard Gardens North T&RA 