When to get help: The NHS is still there if you need it, local advice + free dance classes

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COVID-19

Stay healthy and active in lockdown

We've put together a great list of ways to stay active, creative and connected while staying safe and healthy at home.

You can stay in shape with online exercise sessions for all ages and abilities as well as take the opportunity to learn a new skill or keep in touch with friends and family.

There's plenty to enjoy online with special shows from museums and theatres, or you could virtually visit a zoo or learn a new language, recipe or skill.


Holiday childcare

Bookings open for holiday childcare in May

If you are a key worker or have vulnerable children and need childcare for the next school holidays in late May, look no further than our Holiday Childcare Scheme.

It's Ofsted registered and provides fun activities for children aged 3 - 13 years old at locations in Bethnal Green and Shadwell.

Bookings are accepted on a first-come-first-served basis and close at 1pm on Tuesday 19 May, or sooner if we reach full capacity.

Find out more >


Housing image

Support for private renters and landlords

All housing possession action is suspended until the end of June, which means no evictions can currently take place.

Our private housing advice team is available to assist with landlord/tenant mediation and can provide advice to tenants experiencing financial hardship. It can be contacted at housing.advice@towerhamlets.gov.uk 

We also continue to provide support for rough sleepers and housing providers to maintain our critical support services during the pandemic.

Find out more >


Mental health image

If you're struggling, talking can really help

If you're feeling anxious, stressed or low, speak to the friendly team at Tower Hamlets Talking Therapies.

You can discuss your difficulties confidentially on a telephone or video call, and a qualified therapist will help you find a way forward whatever you're experiencing.

The service is run by the NHS, is free and also offers workshops, courses and group sessions to help support people with stress, anxiety, depression or mental health problems.

Get in touch today >


Sick child

What do I do if my child is ill and it isn't coronavirus?

While it's important to follow government and NHS guidance to stay at home during this period, it can be confusing to know what to do if your child is unwell or injured.

Doctors have developed a one page guide for parents to use at this time to recognise where to go for medical help.

Remember that NHS 111, GPs and hospitals are still providing the same safe care that they have always done for those who need it.

When to get help >


Royal London Hospital

Don't ignore cancer symptoms - the NHS is still available 

Cancer referrals have dropped significantly across the UK, which means some people may not be following up concerning symptoms or seeking medical help if they need it. 

If you have any symptoms of cancer, you may be worried about how coronavirus impacts things like getting tests, treatment and care.

Please be assured that the NHS is still there for you and you should still contact your GP straight away if you are worried. 

From online consultations to COVID-free cancer hubs, NHS staff have worked hard to make sure people can get cancer checks and treatment safely, so there is no need to delay. 

Macmillan Cancer Support has put together helpful information for anyone worried they have cancer.

The NHS has also published advice on how to access health services at this time. If in doubt, please contact your GP as soon as possible.

Cancer advice and support >


Free meals

#TowerHamletsTogether: thank you to our volunteers 

After being furloughed from his job during the pandemic, Poplar resident Alex has volunteered his services to Poplar HARCA to help our community at this time.

Alex is one of many incredible volunteers in Tower Hamlets helping to deliver essential support services to vulnerable people who remain in isolation.

Whether it's delivering food and medicine or phoning lonely neighbours, we hugely appreciate the efforts of charity and voluntary workers at this time.

Join us in sharing experiences and thanks to community heroes like Alex on social media using the #TowerHamletsTogether hashtag.

Read Alex's story >


Foot tunnel

Greenwich foot tunnel restrictions

Greenwich Council has restricted use of the foot tunnel to key workers only, to help reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus. This is due to crowds of people walking and cycling through on non-essential journeys, which has made social distancing at two metres apart very difficult and is putting lives at risk. 

Please be aware, Greenwich Council has now decided to close the tunnel to all users this weekend from 10pm on Friday 1 May until 10pm on Sunday 3 May.

Crossing the river for unavoidable and essential journeys will still be possible on the DLR, which allows bicycles onboard during weekends, bank holidays and at off peak times.

Find out more >


Coronavirus: useful links


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Updates in other languages

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The government is also publishing advice in a range of languages on its website.