26th April 2021

Hello Everyone

So I am back to work today after an enjoyable weeks leave.  I also received my second vaccination to my relief and feel much safer than previously.

I do want the thank the NHS for the amazing vaccination programme that they are delivering on top of their already incredible workload.  My Mum and Dad have both had their second doses and that as their carer makes me feel less anxious about their wellbeing.

As carers how are you feeling about the vaccination programme, are your loved ones fully vaccinated yet, have you had your first dose?

I cannot urge you strongly enough to take up the offer of the vaccine for you and your family members as it is a life changer.

Continue to test for Covid-19

Alongside the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine programme, testing remains hugely important as it can help identify and isolate positive cases, preventing further spread.

Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms can get a test by calling 119 or booking an appointment online. Everyone can also take up the offer of rapid asymptomatic tests twice weekly. These can be done at four sites in the borough or collected for home testing.

Spread the word #Ihadmyjab

Have you had your Covid jab, or are you about to? If so, thank you for saving lives. We need your help to save even more by sharing your story on social media using #ihadmyjab to encourage vaccine take up.

Studies have shown that the Covid-19 vaccines can both reduce the risk of serious illness and death from Covid-19, along with transmission to others.

In partnership with the NHS, we have launched a new #Ihadmyjab campaign to ask people to take a photo outside their vaccine centre, at home or wherever and post on social media using #ihadmyjab. You can even add a reason as to why you have had it and your hopes for the future.

Those receiving their jab may also receive a #ihadmyjab badge to proudly wear.

Local hero takes on second charity walk during Ramadan

101-year-old Dabirul Choudhury is taking on his second walking challenge while fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Last year, the local hero raised more than £420,000 for charities during lockdown and was made an OBE for his incredible efforts.

This weekend just gone and he continues take donations.  Mr Choudhury is inviting others to join him by walking in their local park or garden, with the aim of reaching 1.5 million steps collectively. Funds raised will help people worldwide affected by Covid-19, as well as supporting those in refugee camps.

Make sure you’re ready to vote on 6 May!

The Mayor of London and London Assembly elections are taking place on Thursday 6 May. Two local referendums are also taking place in Tower Hamlets:

• All registered voters will be asked to choose how they think the borough should be governed in the future.
• A smaller number of voters on the Isle of Dogs will be able to take part in a Local Neighbourhood Planning Referendum.

Check out our dedicated elections webpages for further details, as well as information on which candidates are standing and how to find your polling station.

The deadlines to register to vote or to apply for a postal vote have now passed. However, if you are on the electoral register and want to apply to vote by proxy (nominate someone to vote on your behalf), the deadline is 5pm, Tuesday 27 April.

London Fire Brigade – keeping London safe

London Fire Brigade (LFB) is holding a number of online events to hear the views of Londoners to help shape and improve their services.

Whether you’ve had an experience with the London Fire Brigade or not, they want to hear your views on topics including prevention, protection, community work and making London safer.

Have your say on health and wellbeing for the next five years

The Tower Hamlets Health and Wellbeing Board has developed a draft joint strategy for the next five years that sets out priority areas and initial actions to support the delivery of its five ambitions.

Anyone living or working in Tower Hamlets is being asked to review the draft strategy, shape the final document, and consider how they can be part of its delivery.