Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Free swimming lessons, local antiques sale and COVID-19 information

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Things to do in Southwark and key council updates

Southwark Council · PO BOX 64529 · London SE1P 5LX

Extra vaccine clinics this week in Southwark

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DUSK

Extra vaccine clinics this week in Southwark

All the key COVID-19 information

Southwark Council · PO BOX 64529 · London SE1P 5LX

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URGENT update on Covid-19

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Dear TRA Chairs, VCS partners and Community Ambassadors,

I wish that our only focus was on spreading festive cheer in our communities at this time, but unfortunately we remain very much in the grip of a dangerous pandemic. You will have seen that cases are rising incredibly fast in London, and this week in Southwark our rates have risen alarmingly to 1,494 per 100,000 – the third highest rate in the country. This is a really worrying number, and is a much higher rate when we went into Tier 4 restrictions this time last year.

As we await a potential update from the Government on further restrictions, I do need to appeal to all our communities to avoid meeting in groups face to face wherever possible. I believe it’s the only way we are going to slow the speed of the virus spreading, and therefore protect local people and the NHS.

The vaccine does provide protection, and it’s important that residents continue to come forward for their 1st, 2nd or booster dose, but we know that in some parts of the borough, 40% of residents have not had a single vaccine.

I am asking for your help, therefore, in helping get the word out to residents that they should come forward for whichever vaccine they are eligible for now, to help protect them and their families. You can do this by:

  • Sharing the attached 1,2,3 campaign on social media and your local Whatsapp groups
  • Promote local enhanced provision in or close to your wards . These include extended opening hours at Tessa Jowell, the Artesian, and at various approved pharmacies across the borough – you can find the up to date details here
  • Helping to publicise the extended offer in Peckham next week. The attached leaflet gives details of a walk in at the Lister Centre on Monday/Tuesday but we are hopeful that this will extend into Wednesday/Thursday. Please share the attached graphic and this web link which will be updated if the offer is extended: https://www.southwark.gov.uk/news/2021/dec/extra-vaccine-clinics-in-peckham-20-to-24-december

In addition to the vaccine we are promoting cautious behaviours to help reduce the rise in Covid-19 rates locally. We are asking all our community leaders to avoid face to face meetings or gatherings with groups of residents, move events online wherever possible, and to follow the following advice:

  • Take a rapid lateral flow test before meeting with family and friends or going to busy public places
  • Wash hands regularly and wear face coverings in public places including community centres and faith premises
  • Self-isolate if positive. There is financial support available for this.
  • Stay at home if unwell, to reduce the risk of passing on other illnesses onto friends, family, colleagues, and others in your community
  • Meet family and friends in well-ventilated areas where possible, such as outdoors or indoors with windows open. You are at a higher risk if you are in an enclosed or crowded space, or there is limited fresh air.
  • Download the NHS COVID-19 app. Keep your Bluetooth and contact tracing on to stay informed in case you come into contact with a positive case. 

The current rates and restrictions will alarm and concern some our residents, especially those who are more vulnerable and those who were previously shielding. Please do remind them of the support on offer to them, as we all help our residents through another difficult period.

Officers across the council, alongside our NHS colleagues, are working extremely hard to try to keep residents safe and I know you will be too. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Best wishes,

Cllr Evelyn Akoto

Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing

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Peckham walk-in times[10139]

Get your booster, first or second vaccine dose

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Southwark Council · PO BOX 64529 · London SE1P 5LX  

What Plan B means for you, and how to stay safe as Covid rates rise

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Southwark Council header
COVID-19 numbers are rising in Southwark and across the country, and rates have increased by 45% in Southwark in the last week. There are also cases of the Omicron variant in Southwark.

To limit the spread of COVID-19, the government has moved to ‘Plan B’ arrangements (details below). These make it a legal requirement to wear face coverings in most places where you mix with other people. They also ask people to work from home if you can.

It’s important we all get vaccinated and get a booster jab when we’re eligible. It’s also important to keep getting tested regularly and to follow current guidance.

Aged 40+? Get your booster vaccine now

If you’re aged 40+ you can now get your booster vaccine if it’s three months since your second dose.

You can pre-book your booster if it’s two months since your second dose (you will be offered an appointment three months after the second dose).

>> Book your booster jab now on the national booking system

Vaccines are the best defence against COVID-19. Over 20 million people have had their booster jab.

If it’s already three months since your second dose you can go to a walk-in clinic for your booster.

>> Go to a local walk-in clinic (if it’s 3 months since your second dose)

Frontline health and social care workers and people aged 16+ with certain health conditions can also get a booster vaccine.

Get your first or second vaccine dose

It is one year since the first people got their vaccine. In the UK over 51 million people have had their first dose and over 46 million have had two doses. The vaccines have been proven to be safe and the best defence against COVID-19.

>> Book your first or second vaccine dose now

>> Find a walk-in clinic for your first or second dose

Second dose COVID-19 vaccinations for 16 and 17-year-olds

If you’re 16 or 17-years-old you can book a second dose, for 12 weeks after your 1st dose. If you’re at higher risk from COVID-19, you can get a 2nd dose at a walk-in vaccination site from eight weeks after your 1st dose.

Walk-in vaccinations for 12 to 15-year-olds

All children aged between 12 and 17 are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Most children aged 12 to 15 will we be offered one in school, but if you have missed that opportunity you can go to a local walk-in clinic for your vaccine.

Plan B: a summary of the changes

  • From Friday 10 December, face coverings will be required in more public settings, including theatres and cinemas, unless you are exempt. Face coverings are already required in indoor places such as shops and on public transport.
  • From Monday 13 December, you should work from home where possible.
  • From Wednesday 15 December, the NHS Covid Pass will be needed in some venues, including nightclubs. People will be able to demonstrate proof of two vaccine doses via the app. Proof of a negative lateral flow test will also be accepted.
  • The government will also introduce daily contact tests for contacts of confirmed positive cases instead of the ten-day self-isolation period. However, please check the current self-isolation rules.

Get a PCR test and isolate if you have COVID-19 symptoms

If you have COVID-19 symptoms (a high temperature, a new cough or a change to sense of taste or smell) you should self-isolate and book a PCR COVID-19 test.

You can order a PCR test kit to be sent to your home or book an appointment at a walk-in or drive-through test site.

>> Get a COVID-19 test if you currently have symptoms
Southwark Council · PO BOX 64529 · London SE1P 5LX

Meet Olympians, discover local walks and flu vaccine reminder

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Try out Southwark’s newest sports facility and meet Olympians on Saturday 6 November

Come along to the opening of the Southwark Park Sports and Athletics Centre on Saturday 6 November. Book for free tasters sessions including tag rugby, introductions to long jump and sprint running and disability sports sessions. Join Olympic Champion, Christine Ohuruogu; Peckham-born Tokyo Olympic medallist, Imani-Lara Lansiquot; Team GB athlete, Conrad Williams; and professional freestyle footballer Steve Gray, who will be trying out the new facility.

Join a gym in Southwark for under £25 per month

Get unlimited use of gym, swim and exercise classes at Southwark Park Sports and Athletics Centre, Seven Islands Leisure Centre, Surrey Docks Fitness and Watersports Centre, Camberwell Leisure Centre and Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre. Kick-start your exercise routine and sign up for a gym today.

Free swim and gym in Southwark

Did you know Southwark residents can use swimming pools and gyms at our leisure centres, free of charge, at certain times? Find out more and register for free swim and gym.

Discover local walking routes: follow in the steps of Harry Potter, Bridget Jones and Del Trotter

Discover Southwark with our illustrated walking maps. Pick from 12 routes which include film locations, Dulwich’s unusual architecture, flora and fauna, and myths and legends of the borough.

Ultra Low Emission Zone has expanded: check your vehicle

The Ultra Low Emission Zone expanded up to the North and South Circular Roads on Monday 25 October 2021. Check your vehicle now via the TfL website.

Survey: your views on public art in Southwark

Public art is art that is in public spaces and is for everyone to see. It is often commissioned by councils or other public organisations. We want our pubic spaces to better celebrate our diverse communities. That’s why we want to hear your views about public art in Southwark.

Find out if you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine

The flu virus kills almost 11,000 people and hospitalises tens of thousands more in England in an average year. It’s more important than ever to get your flu jab this year. Find out if you are now eligible to get a free flu vaccine.

Plans approved for 162 new council homes at two developments in Southwark

New Homes image We have permission to build 162 new council homes at two developments in St Giles and Peckham. 

The development in St Giles will see 79 new council homes built at Sceaux Gardens. The development in Peckham will see 83 new council homes built at Bells Gardens Estate.

Get the Transport for London app to help you travel safely across London

If you’re out and about you can 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.

New service launched to help people get online

We have launched a new digital inclusion service for residents to provide information, help and guidance about how to get online or improve their internet skills. If you, or anyone you know, could benefit from this service please get in touch by calling our helpline 07783 776 066.

How to keep yourself safe during COVID-19

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Kieron Williams Header

Dear resident

I’m sure you will have seen the news that COVID-19 infection rates across the country are rising again. I’m writing to ask for your help in keeping rates in Southwark low, so we can all keep each other safe.

From the vaccine, to face coverings, to tests, to keeping rooms well ventilated, there are lots of details on the things you can do to help below.

I want to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to do these things over recent months.

The council has been working hard with other organisations to help keep Southwark safe. Whether it’s been supporting vulnerable residents through our community hub, working with colleagues in the NHS to put on more local vaccine clinics, sending mobile testing vans into our communities or supporting the vaccine roll out for 12–15-year-olds in secondary schools, it’s been fantastic to see.

However, with the number of people catching COVID-19 across the country now high and rising there is a very strong chance rates will rise in Southwark too. We can all help keep them low.  That’s why I encourage you to:

  • wear a face mask on public transport and when in crowded enclosed spaces
  • get vaccinated if you’re eligible
  • get the booster vaccination if you’re eligible
  • get tested regularly even if you don’t have symptoms
  • self-isolate and book a PCR test if you have symptoms
  • keep rooms ventilated if you’re meeting with others inside

If you would like to do even more there are also lots of ways you can volunteer to help in your community.

Please see below for more information on how to keep yourself and others safe.

Thank you

Kieron

Get the recommended number of COVID-19 vaccine doses to protect yourself

If you’re aged 16+, you can get your first or second COVID-19 vaccine dose in different ways:

Get your questions or concerns about the vaccine answered on this NHS website.

Booster vaccines for people most at risk from COVID-19

If you’ve had your second dose at least six months ago, you’ll be contacted about your booster jab if you are:

  • Living in a residential care home for older adults
  • Aged 50 or over
  • A frontline health and social care worker
  • Aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put you at higher risk of severe COVID-19
  • An adult household contact of an immunosuppressed person/people.

Vaccines for 12–15-year-olds

12–15-year-olds are being offered the COVID-19 vaccine as part of the school-based vaccination programme (parental consent will be sought). Vaccinations for 12–15-year-olds can also be booked online. There are now walk-ins vaccine clinics for 12–15-year-olds too. You are advised to book online to avoid disappointment.

Read more about the vaccine programme for 12–15-year-olds.

Find out about pregnancy, fertility and the COVID-19 vaccine

Watch a 30 minute Q&A about pregnancy and the COVID-19 vaccine. GP Registrar, Dr Juliet Grenham covers the importance of being vaccinated if you’re pregnant or thinking about starting a family.

Get tested for COVID-19 twice a week for free

You should get tested regularly, even if you’ve been vaccinated, and don’t have symptoms. 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 don’t have symptoms. You’re advised to do a rapid lateral flow test twice a week (every 3 or 4 days). If you don’t have symptoms, there are different ways to get COVID-19 tests in Southwark.

Get a collect code to pick up COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests from a pharmacy

You now need to get a code to pick up tests from your pharmacy by creating an online account or calling 119. You will need a new code for each collection. You can pick up rapid tests for your or another household, but you must get a separate code for each.

Continue to wear a face covering to protect yourself

It’s not mandatory, but still advisable to wear a face covering (unless exempt) in crowded places. Face coverings must still be worn if you are traveling on the Transport for London network. Cloth face coverings and disposable face coverings work best if they are made with multiple layers (at least two) and form a good fit around the face.

Ventilate rooms for indoor visitors, or meet outside

Letting fresh air into indoor spaces can help remove air that contains virus particles and prevent the spread of COVID-19. To reduce the risk of catching COVID-19, or passing it on, minimise the amount of time you spend indoors with people you do not live with. Meet outside if possible.

Advice on potential COVID-19 related scams

Find out how to be aware of potential COVID-19 scams in person and online and how to protect yourself.

Volunteer to share key information about COVID-19 with your community

We’re working with Community Southwark to find volunteers to keep people up-to-date with COVID-19 advice, mental health or financial support, and food security. Ambassadors receive training, resources and networking opportunities. Find out about volunteering and how to sign up.

Financial support if your income has been affected by the pandemic

Get support if you’re under increased financial pressure due to COVID-19. Advice includes applying for Universal Credit, what to do if you can’t pay your rent, Council Tax, or homeowner annual and major works service charges, and COVID-19 self-isolation payments.

Help for vulnerable residents

Our community hub was set up to help residents during the COVID-19 crisis. It can help you if you need:

  • Food, medicine or other items delivered
  • Financial advice
  • Help for someone you know
  • Advice about where you can get support and information on childcare, education and your local mutual aid groups.

Contact the community hub for support.

Free holiday activities, BMX inspiration and rooftop art

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Southwark summer

What’s on for children, young people and families

There’s a host of events and activities for children and families this summer as part of our Summer of Play programme. Check out a few up-coming highlights below.

Free summer holiday food and fun activities for 5 to 16 year olds

The Southwark Food and Fun holiday programme runs until 27 August and is for those eligible for benefits-related free school meals. If you’re a parent or carer of children or young people that might benefit from healthy food and fun activities, contact the various providers to sign up.

Get your BMX skills up to an Olympic level in Burgess Park

If you’ve been inspired by Kye Whyte’s silver medal in the BMX racing last week, then book up at the track in Peckham where he trained. BMX Track London offers experienced coaching, equipment hire and bookable sessions for riders of all abilities.

Book for family yoga every Tuesday in Brunswick Park, Camberwell

Enjoy some active family time, improve your movement and fitness in the park every Tuesday from 10am to 10.45am, until 28 September. Book a free family yoga session in Brunswick Park, SE5.

Free family workshops and performances from Blue Elephant Theatre

The theatre is running free, bookable workshops and performances for children aged 2 to 10 years old in Elephant Park. Sessions include caring for the environment, exploring nature and numeracy and literacy skills, with some in Spanish.

*Please enjoy events safely, and remember hands, face and space.*

>> Check out all our summer listings for children and young people

There’s lots on this summer in Southwark! Check out some highlights below:

What’s on

Rooftop visual art, architecture and live music in Peckham

Book tickets for eclectic events in the unique multi-storey car park with open panoramic views of London.

A ‘Fine Day For Seeing’ at Southwark Park Galleries, SE16

The free exhibition celebrating words and images, pairs acclaimed poets and artists and is open 11am to 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Workshops and performances run until 29 August.

New play launches at the Golden Goose Theatre in Camberwell on 10 August

‘A Rat, A Rat’ features an all female cast and portrays character Charlie, a teenager being treated in an adult psychiatric unit, and reflects on how we as individuals care for one another. Book tickets from £12 for performances of A Rat, A Rat until 28 August.

>> See all listings

COVID-19 updates

Get an NHS COVID Pass to show you’ve been vaccinated, or results of a COVID-19 test

You may be asked to show a COVID Pass to get into some venues or to travel abroad. Find out how you can get an NHS COVID Pass to show your vaccination status or COVID-19 test results.

Vaccination walk-in sites in south east London

There are lots of ways to get a first or second dose, including at daily walk-in vaccine clinics at Guy’s and St Thomas’, and King’s College hospitals, plus other places across south east London. Check the website for full details and to see who offers free Moderna, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca vaccines. You don’t need to book, or provide proof of address, immigration status, ID or an NHS number.

You can also book your vaccine appointment via the NHS website.

Jazz, adventure play, food, Shakespeare and more in Southwark!

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There’s lots on this summer in Southwark! Check out some highlights below:

What’s on

Free: listen to jazz performances in Bermondsey Square 

Bermondsey Square Jazz supports aspiring and seasoned creative music talent. The line up of musicians changes at every event and the events are hosted by vocalist Stephen Pierre. From 2pm to 5pm on 1 and 15 August.

See …cake at Peckham Theatre

Book now for a psychological drama which unapologetically queers the existing complexities of family, roots and belonging; where power and duty dance in equal measure. Shows until Saturday 31 July and tickets from £10.

Enjoy food, drink and rides at the Rotherhithe festival

The Rotherhithe Festival will return to King George’s Fields, SE16 on Saturday 7 August. It’s a great day of free music with food, drink and rides and attractions for children, starting at 11.30am and finishing at 8.30pm.

Join a local archaeology walk

Join a guided walk around the historic borough of Southwark, exploring Borough and Bankside’s archaeology on 29 or 31 July. Free, but booking required.

*Please enjoy events safely and remember hands, face and space.*

>> See all listings

What’s on for children, young people and families

There’s a host of events and activities for children and families this summer as part of our Summer of Play programme. Check out a few up-coming highlights below.

Shakespeare for younger audiences at the Globe

The Shakespeare’s Globe annual storytelling festival, Telling Tales, is back on stage this summer until 22 August. These storytelling performances will take you on a sensory, interactive adventure, giving younger audiences the chance to get into Shakespeare’s stories. Tickets: £12

Visit Elephant Springs: a new natural play area in SE1

Elephant springs is a new urban oasis in Elephant and Castle with rocks, streams, sand and water fountains. If you’re local, pop along for a unique experience.

Book now: holiday gymnastics club in Camberwell

Southwark Gymnastics Club is offering gymnastics sessions for children aged between 4 and 15 over the summer holidays, based in Brunswick Park School in Camberwell. Prices are £7.50 per session, but discounts are available.

Try Ellen Brown adventure playground

8 to 15-year-olds can head to Ellen Brown adventure playground in SE1 on any day until 27 August for open access, free and fun outdoor activities.

Join a Teddy Bears’ picnic in Canada Water

Let’s have lots of fun singing your favourite teddy bear rhymes and listening to wonderful stories. Bring your favourite teddy or soft toy and a little snack. 4 August 2021 11am to 11.45am. Free, booking essential.

*Please enjoy events safely, and remember hands, face and space.*

>> Check out all our summer listings for children and young people

COVID-19 updates

Vaccination walk-in sites in south east London

There are lots of opportunities to still get your vaccine, including walk-in clinics at Guys and St Thomas’ hospitals every day (Pfizer, Moderna and Astrazeneca vaccines all available) and other places across Southwark and southeast London. You do not need proof of address, immigration status, ID or an NHS number.

You can also book your appointment via the NHS website.

Want to know more before you get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Do you need your questions answered before you get your COVID-19 jab? Get the facts on vaccines from medical professionals and hear from south Londoners on why they got theirs.

Get an NHS COVID Pass to show you’ve been vaccinated, or results of a COVID-19 test

You may be asked to show a COVID pass to get into some venues or to travel abroad. Find out how you can get an NHS COVID Pass to show your vaccination status or COVID-19 test results.

Get tested for COVID-19 twice a week

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:

Stay safe this summer

If you’re out and about this summer please keep getting testing regularly and remember the vaccine is the best protection against COVID-19. Book your vaccine if you haven’t had yours yet.

Other updates…

Join celebrations at Bermondsey town centre this Saturday

Enjoy delicious food from local traders and a family-friendly line-up of free entertainment and workshops at The Blue in Bermondsey to celebrate the new and improved Market Place being back open for business and now featuring a striking new clock tower. From 12 noon to 4pm

Peveril Garden Studios opens

A new arts space and public roof garden launched this week at Peveril Garden, Bricklayers Arms. Commissioned by the council, the studios have been created by converting and refurbishing a 1960s building previously used for garages. Peveril Garden Studios will be operated by Forma Arts Media.

The Elephant Magazine Summer issue out now

Keep up to date with everything that’s happening in Elephant and Castle. The Elephant Magazine summer issue is out now and includes features on the new Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library; local artist and musician, Natty Bo; and Elephant Springs, the new water feature at Elephant Park. Pick up your copy in Elephant and Castle or read online.

Come and talk to us about life after COVID-19

Come and talk to a member of the team at our Blue Market stall on Wednesday 4 August between 10am to 4pm or you can complete our Life after Covid survey online. You can host an event yourself with your neighbours, faith group, community group or Tenant and Residents Association and we can offer support and some funding for you to do this.

Closure of the Burgess Park car park

The car park in Albany Road is closed for parking for the foreseeable future. The current COVID-19 testing facilities in the car park are temporarily closed whilst work is done to expand the facility. If you have COVID-19 symptoms you can book an appointment at a testing site in the borough.

Share your ideas on how we can redevelop the old PC World + B&M sites on Old Kent Road.

We’ll be hosting workshops and group discussions at 682 Old Kent Road from Thursday 22 to Saturday 31 July. Find out more here: https://pcworldbm.commonplace.is/proposals/ideas-week

Not registered with a GP practice?

Anyone in England can register and receive care from a GP practice. You don’t need proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS number. Find a local GP and how you can register with them.

ww.southwark.gov.uk

What’s on in Southwark this summer…

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southwark-summer_cropWhat’s on for children, young people and families

There’s a host of events and activities for children and families this summer as part of our Summer of Play programme. Check out a few up-coming highlights below.

Wildlife photography competition for children and young people

If you’re aged 8 to 17 you can take part in our summer wildlife photography competition

Try beach volleyball

Free of charge: young people can join in beach volleyball sessions and could even be picked to represent Southwark at the London Youth Games. Sessions continue until 23 August.

Visit Elephant Springs: a new natural play area in SE1

Elephant springs is a new urban oasis in Elephant and Castle with rocks, streams, sand and water fountains. If you’re local, pop along for a unique experience.

Try pond dipping and join a big butterfly count

Head to the free open day at Lavender Pond Nature Reserve on Saturday 24 July, 11am to 4pm. Activities include pond dipping, craft and a Big Butterfly Count at 2pm.

Take up the summer reading challenge!

This year’s summer reading challenge theme is Wild World Heroes and will inspire children to stand up for the future of our planet. Prizes are on offer for children who read six books over the summer holidays. Find out how to take up the summer reading challenge.

>> Check out all our summer listings for children and young people

What’s on for all ages

At part of our Southwark Summer programme there’s also lots on for all ages. Here are some highlights:

Food, drink and rides at the Rotherhithe festival

The Rotherhithe Festival will return to King George’s Fields, SE16 on Saturday 7 August. It’s a great day of free music with food, drink and rides and attractions for children, starting at 11.30am and finishing at 8.30pm.

Latin American festival at Dulwich Park

Celebrate Latin America through independent cinema, dance, music and regional cuisine on 24 and 25 July at Dulwich Park. Tickets start at £25.

Join a local archaeology walk

Join a guided walk around the historic borough of Southwark, exploring Borough and Bankside’s archaeology on 29 or 31 July. Free, but booking required.

>> See all listings

COVID-19 updates

Vaccination walk-in sites in south east London

There are lots of opportunities to still get your vaccine, including walk-in clinics at Guys and St Thomas’ hospitals (every day) and Charlton Athletic football club (24 July) and many other places across Southwark and southeast London. You do not need proof of address, immigration status, ID or an NHS number.

You can also book your appointment via the NHS website.

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