A special thank you to our incredible community
Today marks one year since the UK first went into lockdown. It has been an incredibly difficult year, during which the Covid-19 pandemic impacted the lives of everyone in our borough, with devastating consequences.
But it is at times of challenge that we also see the very best of the human spirit, and the response of our community over the past twelve months has been extraordinary. On this national day of reflection, we want to take a moment to thank everyone in Tower Hamlets for helping to keep our borough healthy, safe and supported.
And to do this, we've put together a special two-minute film...
 New community film to mark first anniversary of lockdown
It has been incredibly heartening to see so many residents, volunteers, community groups, partner organisations, local businesses and council staff working together from across our diverse communities to tackle coronavirus.
Through our #TowerHamletsTogether film, we want to say a very big thank you to everyone who is helping to keep Tower Hamlets healthy, safe and supported - from key workers and volunteers to all those who stayed at home, got tested, self-isolated, and took the vaccine when it was their turn.
Together, you have shown that in Tower Hamlets, we protect our neighbours. That we are resilient with a collaborative spirit. That we can come together by staying apart. And that we will come out of this stronger than before.
Watch, share and like the video to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone in our community for helping to get us through this together.
Watch the film on:
 National day of reflection
We're supporting today's national day of reflection to mark the anniversary of the UK's first Covid-19 lockdown, planned by Marie Curie, with a minute of silence at 12pm and a doorstep vigil at 8pm.
The end of life charity is encouraging people to take a minute to reflect on the past year, remember those who've lost their lives, support those who've been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future after what has been an incredibly challenging year.
We are also lighting up Bromley Public Hall in yellow today in memory of those who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
Important Covid-19 updates
 Get a Covid-19 test in Tower Hamlets
Despite the vaccine programme rolling out, getting tested continues to be vitally important. There are two testing options available to residents.
Symptomatic testing
Anyone with symptoms of Covid-19 should get a test, whether vaccinated or not. Remember, symptoms include a high temperature, a new or continuous cough or a change or loss in normal sense of smell or taste.
There are three symptomatic testing sites in Tower Hamlets and all appointments can be booked by calling 119 or online.
- Ecology Pavilion, Mile End Park, E3 5TW
- Watney Market, Idea Store, Shadwell, E1 2FB
- Jack Dash House, 2 Lawn House Close, Isle of Dogs, E14 9YQ
Asymptomatic testing
One in three people who test positive for Covid-19 show no symptoms at all. Rapid asymptomatic tests are available for anyone without symptoms. They are particularly important for key workers, anyone who cannot work from home, is attending education settings, or live with people in these groups. There are four asymptomatic testing sites in Tower Hamlets:
- 56 Burcham Street, Poplar, E14 0SH (open 10am to 7pm)
- Tramshed Community Centre, Digby Street, Bethnal Green, E2 0LP (open 10am to 7pm)
- Toynbee Hall, 28 Commercial Street, London, E1 6LS (open 11am to 8pm)
- Canary Wharf, Level 2 Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf, E14 5NY (open 7.30am to 4.30pm)
All sites are walk-in and appointments can also be booked online.
It is recommended people take free and regular rapid testing twice a week, with a minimum of three days between each rapid test.
 Covid-19 vaccines are safe and effective
Covid-19 vaccines are safe and effective and give people the best protection against Covid-19. In Tower Hamlets, the AstraZeneca vaccine continues to be used. In response to recent reports around the safety of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency continues to recommend its use.
The programme continues to be rolled out based on eligibility and more information on eligibility is available online.
Anyone observing Ramadan should remember, the vaccine does not invalidate the fast so please do not delay taking the vaccine – the first or second dose. More information is available including from the British Islamic Medical Association.
The council continues to operate a dedicated vaccine helpline for residents who are eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine. The helpline can support people to book their appointment or deal with queries residents may have, including safety, eligibility and where people can get their vaccine. It is staffed with call handlers who can speak eight community languages. Eligible residents can call the helpline on 020 7364 3030.
Useful Covid-19 links
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