Candidates announced for Brentford East and Syon and Brentford Lock ward by-elections
 The list of candidates standing for election in the upcoming Brentford East and Syon and Brentford Lock ward by-elections has been published.
Those who have not registered to vote in these by-elections have until midnight on Tuesday, 18 February to do so here
Registered voters can apply online to have their ballot paper sent to them in the post. Alternatively, paper application forms can be sent in the post, on request.
The deadline for receiving completed postal vote applications and for changes to existing postal or proxy votes is 5pm on Wednesday, 19 February.
Driving in Hounslow? Parking charges are changing
 The Council is expanding emissions-based parking charges in its operated car parks, on-street parking spaces, and for parking permits from Friday, 28 February.
Emissions-based parking considers a vehicle’s environmental impact with parking charges are calculated based on a vehicle’s level of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions.
The new system introduces seven ‘bands’ to better reflect the level of CO2 emissions produced by different vehicle types. This means vehicles producing lower emissions pay less than more polluting vehicles.
These charges will apply to resident and business parking permits, in addition to on and off-street parking.
Help someone feel less alone this Valentine’s Day
 Valentine’s Day is a day when no one wants to be alone. But sadly there are people in Hounslow who are experiencing loneliness and isolation on a daily basis.
BEfriend offers people a lifeline through its brilliant volunteers. They give up one or two hours a week to meet people, have a chat a strike up a friendship. A recent survey found 90% of people supported by the charity felt less lonely after six months.
Why not do something amazing this Valentine’s Day and sign up to volunteer and change someone’s life?
Join a SEND online event In March
 The next Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) families evening session will take place on Wednesday, 5 March.
Participants can join this popular event to explore ways to reduce isolation, develop independence, and discover employment opportunities, including local internships with DFN Project SEARCH.
Have you say on prevention for HIV Testing Week
 This week (10-16 February) is National HIV Testing Week. As symptoms may not appear for many years, testing is the only way to find out if you have HIV. Testing is free and can be requested through your GP, a sexual health clinic or by ordering a test online.
The earlier HIV is diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment and avoid becoming seriously ill. Anyone diagnosed in the UK can access free treatment and support.
As part of National HIV Testing Week, the Public Health Action Support Team (PHAST), on behalf of Do it London, is also conducting a survey to better understand the HIV prevention needs, knowledge, and attitudes of Black Londoners. HIV prevention services are vital for all communities and it's essential that services are tailored to the unique needs of different groups.
Council celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month
 Last week, more than 50 residents and staff attended the Council’s event that celebrated LGBTQ+ History Month. The event highlighted LGBTQ+ partners contribution to social change through activism.
To read more about how we are making Hounslow a more equal borough, click here.
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