Check the current COVID-19 rules: The whole of London is now in ‘Level 2’ restrictions, which means we must all follow extra rules to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The key new rule that affects us all is: You must not socialise with anybody other than members of your household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place The new rules also include: Social mixing between households is not allowed indoors, including in homes, pubs or restaurants. The ‘Rule of Six’ will continue to apply outdoors, including in private gardens. Restaurants, cafes and pubs can remain open but must close by 10pm, and will need to follow the ban on households mixing indoors Retail, schools, public transport and universities will remain open. You can also read the government guidance for more detail about the new restrictions. Continue to follow national guidance The new measures are in addition to the national rules and guidance so please continue to: 1. Keep your distance 2. Wash your hands 3. Wear a face covering 4. Self-isolate if you have symptoms while you arrange a test, or if you are advised to because you have been near to someone else who has tested positive If you are worried about the impact of the new restrictions, or about self-isolating, there is support available. Whether you have a practical concern like how you will get groceries, a mental health issue like being alone, or how it will affect your finances – the council can help. New adult learning courses We are running a range of adult education courses, including Covid-secure in-person courses and online courses ideal for those that are self-isolating or prefer distance learning. A number of courses are starting on 2 November including knitting and sewing, and there are still spaces available on courses that have started such as online hatha yoga, painting, maths and English. Is your child starting secondary school in September 2021? You must apply for your child’s secondary school place online by 31 October 2020. We have lots of useful information about the different types of secondary schools in Southwark, as well as tips to help you decide which school is right for your child. Read our Elephant magazine The Autumn issue of The Elephant Magazine is out now. It includes local artist, Sokari Douglas Camp talking steel, sculpture and Southwark; the Elephant’s Lockdown heroes and news on how the Community Fund is helping local charities. Pick up your copy in the neighbourhood or read online. Could you foster a child? 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. Have you seen the giant mural on Old Kent Road? Proposition Studios at Surrey Wharf is transforming a corner of Old Kent Road with an amazing, temporary work of art, ahead of redevelopment. Get your free flu jab If you’re eligible, make sure you get your free flu vaccination to protect yourself and those around you from the flu virus. It’s more important than ever this year. Ask your pharmacist or GP today. Enjoy Halloween safely This Halloween, why not play Spot the Pumpkin and get school friends to put pictures in their windows: parents, give your kids a sweet for every one they spot. Help design services to support people experiencing abuse We want your help to design support services for residents experiencing any form of gender-based violence or abuse. This includes domestic abuse, stalking, rape, forced marriage and prostitution. If you’ve been directly or indirectly affected by such violence and abuse give your views before 23 November. If you smoke you’re more at risk from COVID-19 If you’re a smoker and become infected with COVID-19 you’re more likely to become seriously ill than a non-smoker. Get help to quit smoking now An update on the Bakerloo Line extension Southwark and Lewisham councils remain fully committed to the Bakerloo Line extension, following TfL’s announcement regarding funding. Read the joint statement. Job support for 16–25-year-olds We will shortly be launching a new campaign which will help link young people with jobs, training and educational opportunities. Sign up now to get jobs, training and education opportunities by email |