Dear resident

COVID-19 rates are rising in Southwark and across much of the country. Given the rising numbers nationally, the government has announced a pause in the roadmap out of lockdown so that more people can get vaccinated before we move to step 4. 

It’s important to get vaccinated if you’re eligible and to keep getting tested regularly.

Book your COVID-19 vaccination today

Everyone aged 18 or over can now book their COVID-19 vaccination.

Get your first COVID-19 vaccination at a walk-in clinic at Guy’s hospital

If you’re aged 40 or over and you’ve not had your first vaccination, come to Guy’s hospital on any day until the end of June, 8am to 7pm, to get an AstraZeneca vaccine. No need to book. You don’t need ID, an NHS number, proof of your address or immigration status.

Don’t miss your second COVID-19 vaccine dose

The Delta variant now makes up 96% of new cases. After only one dose, the vaccines are around 26% to 40% effective at reducing symptomatic disease from the Delta variant. After two doses, the vaccines are estimated to be between 76% and 84% effective against symptomatic disease.

If you book online, you’ll need to book appointments for both doses. If you have your first dose through your GP surgery, you’ll be contacted when it’s time to book your second dose.

Get tested for COVID-19 twice a week

There are increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in Southwark and it’s important we continue to get tested regularly, even if we’ve been vaccinated. If you don’t have symptoms there are different ways to get tested in Southwark:

• Visit a testing site at London Bridge or Bournemouth Road in Peckham
• Order tests to be delivered to your home
• Pick up a test from your local library
• Get a test at a pharmacy 

Survey about women’s safety

Tell us your experiences as a woman living in Southwark by completing our confidential women’s safety survey and help us take the right steps to improve the safety of all women in our borough.

Aged 14 to 19? Stand for the Southwark Youth Parliament

Are you aged 14 to 19 and live in Southwark? Make a difference on issues that matter most to young people and stand as a Youth Parliament candidate for your school, youth club or local area. For more information and to apply visit www.southwark.gov.uk/youthparliament. Applications close on 25 June.

Free family fun fitness classes

Work on your fitness and create a balanced lifestyle for you and your family with a range of classes to choose from, including Zumba and family yoga. Join in our free classes, running from 22 June to 1 October,  aimed at families with young children. For more information visit www.southwark.gov.uk/familyfunfitness or pre-book your place now. 

Quick survey: tell us about renting in Southwark

We have seen a huge response to our proposals for private rented property licensing schemes, but we still want to hear from more of you. Share your experiences and help us make private renting better. To get involved complete the consultation now. 

Get help if you’re struggling with stress, anxiety or low mood

Get support to improve your mental health. If you’re registered with a Southwark GP you can also self-refer for talking therapies to get support for mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.

New exciting adult learning courses starting in June

You can sign-up for one of our new courses starting this month: local history walks, textiles, upholstery, painting, digital photography, carving, creative writing and much more. Courses are available weekdays, evening and weekends.

Food growing on Southwark housing estates

Would you like to grow food in new growing spaces or community gardens? Southwark’s community gardening coordinators will help groups of residents look at potential sites and develop projects. If interested, find out how to apply or email us for more information.

The Ultra-Low Emission Zone expands from 25 October 2021. Have you checked your vehicle?

The central London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is expanding to create a single, larger zone up to (but not including) the North Circular Road (A406) and South Circular Road (A205). Four out of five cars already meet the ULEZ emissions standards but you can check your vehicle now.  

Job and career support for 16 to 25 year olds

We’re linking young people with jobs, training, career support and educational opportunities to help them achieve a bright future. Sign up now to get jobs, training and education opportunities by email.

And if you’re a green-fingered jobseeker who loves being outdoors, why not have a look at the gardening jobs on offer at the council?

Get the TfL app to help you travel safely across London

Plan your journeys across London using the TfL Go app. Get live bus and train times and quieter times to travel, all Tube, London Overground, DLR, TfL Rail and tram lines updates, walking and cycling routes, and accessible routes using the step-free mode.

Funding available to improve our high streets

Do you have a great idea to revitalise our town centres? Apply to The High Street Recovery Fund to have the chance to bring your big idea to life, shape our high streets, support local businesses and bring long term benefits to Southwark. Application deadline is 27 July.