Helping children with communication difficulties
 Fourteen new communication boards have been installed in playgrounds in parks across the borough, with four more to come. This is thanks to a new partnership between West London NHS Trust and the Council.
The boards feature symbols and words that children can point to during play. They allow children with communication difficulties to show others what they want, what they need, or simply comment on what they see around them.
It’s a way to help children to communicate with their parents and friends, making playtime inclusive for all. The project also helps raise awareness of alternative forms of communication, encouraging a wider cultural shift toward inclusivity and understanding.
Films on the Green finale on Saturday
 The final Films on the Green will take place at Feltham Park on Saturday, 11 July.
Double the fun with two screenings:
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Zootropolis 2 - starts at 3pm (pre-film activities from 1pm)
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Bohemian Rhapsody - starts at 6.30pm (pre-film activities from 5pm)
Arrive early to meet furry friends from Bedfont Lakes and and enjoy food from an onsite vendor. Before Bohemian Rhapsody starts, take part in a Queen-themed quiz and compete for the title of best Queen lookalikes. Winners will receive vouchers for local shops.
As temperatures are expected to remain high, please stay hydrated, wear suitable clothing and don't forget your blankets and chairs, as seating will not be provided.
Thriving Communities Fund - apply now
The Council's Thriving Communities Fund (TCF) small grant programme round two is now open for applications.
These grants are designed to support small local projects that help residents:
- Improve physical and mental wellbeing
- Reduce social isolation and loneliness
- Build community connection and cohesion
Projects taking place in the Equality Opportunity Areas, as well as those that test new ideas or strengthen community organisations, are particularly encouraged.
Applicants can review the grant guidelines before submitting an application. Submit your application via an online portal.
To discuss an idea or get support with your application, contact the Thriving Communities Fund team at community.development@hounslow.gov.uk.
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Summer of Culture activities this weekend
 Book now for a live performance of iconic rock music pieces across the decades by two rock choirs, set among the remarkable collection at the Kempton Steam Museum in Hanworth.
The museum will open at 5.30pm on Saturday, 11 July, giving you time to explore its incredible steam engines before the show begins at 7pm.
Also taking place that day is a free outdoor exhibition on Bell Square, Hounslow High Street, from 11am to 6pm.
Watermans is presenting Anna Jochymek's Free.Her exhibition, which tells the stories of 20 Polish women living in or connected to the borough through photographic portraits.
 Ahead of the Council's Carer Awards ceremony on Friday, 20 November, residents can now nominate the borough’s outstanding unpaid carers and professionals who have gone above and beyond to support unpaid carers.
There are nine distinct categories under which nominations can be made from Inspirational Carer of the Year to sector specific awards.
 Are you worried about your gambling, or a loved one's, during the World Cup?
A new local service can help. West London MIND's ResetPoint offers three support options, including peer support and drop-in sessions.
Late night matches during the football World Cup can increase the pressure to gamble alone. If betting alone has become a habit you didn't choose, there are professionals you can talk to. With the right help you can stop.
Carer Café at Hounslow House
 Are you one of Hounslow’s 19,000 plus unpaid carers? Are you even aware that you fall into that category?
Come to the Carers Café at Coffee Republic on the ground floor of Hounslow House (turn left at entrance) on Thursday, 16 July from 1pm to 3pm. Connect with fellow carers, relax, enjoy board games, and share experiences.
Each carer and cared for person will also be treated to a drink of their choice - coffee, tea, smoothie, milkshake and more.
Volunteering can help you gain work experience and improve your chances to find paid work.
To find out more, join an online session with Work Hounslow and Ealing and Hounslow Community and Voluntary Service (EHCVS) on Monday, 13 July, 10am - 11am.
In addition, Thames Reach, a charity that supports individuals who are facing or experiencing homelessness, will share information of their volunteer roles in the borough.
Residents aged 18 and above who are not in education, employment or training, including A-level school leavers, can sign up to attend.
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SEND Drop-ins for Hounslow families
 Find the right support for your child or young person with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
In addition to our Local Offer website, you can also come and talk to us in person at our monthly SEND drop-in sessions where you can speak to a professional face-to-face for advice, and support.
- Monday, 13 July, 10am to 12pm, Meadowbank Community Hub and Library (Cranford) - TW5 9QX
- Wednesday, 26 August, 12:30pm to 2:30pm, Brentford Family Hub - TW8 0BJ
These sessions have team members from the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) team, Therapies, School travel assistance and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Information Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS).
No booking required.
Best Start Family Hub Fun Day returns
 Families across Hounslow are invited to enjoy a free afternoon of fun at the third annual Best Start Summer Fun Day on Wednesday, 29 July, from 12pm-4pm at Old Isleworthians Sports Club, Isleworth.
The event will feature a range of family-friendly activities, including a bouncy castle, baby sensory play, petting zoo, music and dance sessions, multi-sports, and rock wall climbing. Designed to be inclusive, the day will also include dedicated SEND-friendly activity and quiet zones, with support available from the SEND Local Offer Team, SENDIASS and Best Start in Life teams.
A Relaxed Hour from 12pm-1pm will provide a quieter environment for those who would benefit from reduced noise levels. There is no need to sign up, simply turn up on the day.
Residents' Voice Annual General Meeting
Council tenants and leaseholders are invited to join the Residents' Voice Annual General Meeting (AGM) and an interactive discussion about what makes a good landlord.
During the evening, we'll:
- Hold the Residents' Voice AGM and share updates on achievements and priorities
- Introduce Residents' Voice and explain its role in representing residents' views
- Explore what Residents' Voice believes makes a good landlord
- Hear directly from residents about what they think a good landlord looks like
- Work together to combine these ideas and identify shared priorities for the future
This is your chance to have your voice heard and contribute to improving services for residents. Refreshments will be provided.
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Love your local park?
 Find a park volunteers group near you and complete our short nature survey to share your views and experiences with nature in Hounslow.
Help shape decisions that will benefit our green spaces.
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