Families Matter Bitesize E-bulletin - July 2021

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FM E-Bulletin

Welcome to your monthly bitesize e-bulletin from the Parent and Family Support Service. 

This month’s e-bulletin has helpful information on summer activities and support with food that families can access over the summer holiday period, as well as information on how you can get vaccinated to protect you and your family from Covid-19.


Summer fun 2021

A Summer of Activities and Play!

The council and partner organisations have teamed up to offer an action-packed programme of online and face-to-face summer activities including athletics, drama, theatre, family play, cooking workshops, teddy bear picnics and more to help families keep children learning, entertained and active this summer.  Many are free or low cost. 

The council has also invested £10 million as part of its parks capital programme which includes improving play facilities to encourage families to make the most of the borough’s outdoor spaces, especially on bright summer days. 

More summer activities for families can also be found on the Local Offer.

Join in the summer fun >

Local Offer here >


Summer HAF

Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme

There are a wide range of organisations locally who will be delivering food and activities across Tower Hamlets this summer.  Each will provide delicious, healthy meals, allow kids to get active, help them learn new things, make friends and have fun.

The holiday programmes are open to all school-age children and places will be prioritised for children eligible for free school meals. All clubs will be free to attend for those eligible for free school meals.

Sign up here > 


Family Food Shop

Support with the weekly family food shop

Family Action has launched “Food On Our Doorstep” (FOOD) clubs in Tower Hamlets to provide good-quality food at a low cost. It costs just £1 a year for a family to become a member. Once you’ve joined, you can purchase a bag of food items every week worth approximately £10-£15 for just £3.50!

Tower Hamlets FOOD clubs currently open to new members take place at the following locations:

  • Fieldgate Mansions, Romford Street, E1 1HX: Thursdays, 10am-12pm
  • Cyprus Street Estate Office, E2 0PD: Wednesdays, 2-4pm

FOOD club opening times may vary and changes will be communicated to registered members. 

To become a member, you must live or work within 15 minutes of a club.

Join the club > 


Wild Word Heros

Join the Idea Store Summer Reading Challenge

The Idea Store is encouraging children to take part in the the Wild World Heroes Summer Reading Challenge 2021.  Read six books over summer to receive a medal and a certificate! 

There are also online events for children aged five to 12 years to participate in as part of the challenge.

Join in! >


DLR Discovery

Join the DLR Treasure Hunt!

Fancy yourself as a bit of an adventurer?  This summer, you can uncover a world of wonder with the DLR Treasure Hunt.

From Saturday 24 July to Sunday 5 September, you and your family can travel along the DLR and take in the history of London’s Docklands, discover fun facts as you follow the clues on the DLR treasure map.  You will also have the chance to win prizes with DLR Dave and Doris.

To complete the Treasure Hunt, all you need is the Actionbound App and your adventurous spirit! 

Search ‘DLR Treasure Hunt’ in the Actionbound App to start this summer.

For more information, email ambassadors@keolisameydlr.co.uk


Aged 18 and Over Vaccines

18 or over? Get your Covid-19 vaccine now

Everyone aged 18 and over is now eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine. Vaccination is free, and available either by appointment or by coming to one of our many walk-in centres. A full list of venues is available on the council website.

Everyone is welcome to get vaccinated at one of our clinics. If you do not have documentation, no questions will be asked.

You need two doses for maximum protection – your second dose should be 8 - 12 weeks after your first.

More information on the vaccine and how to book, including walk-in options, is available on the council website or via our vaccine helpline on 020 7364 3030. Protect yourself, your loved ones and our community and take up the offer of free Covid-19 vaccination.

Get your jab >


Local Offer Guide

Support available for parents

For more resources, information, advice, and guidance tailored towards children, young people, families, and professionals visit our Local Offer website.

Alternatively, you can call the Family Information Service on 020 7364 6495 (Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm).                                                                                                   

Visit the Local Offer >


Thank you for reading

The Parent and Family Support Service offer early help, targeted services and family support in partnership with schools and community venues and most recently due to the Coronavirus our services are available online through webinars, virtual meetings and forums.

The monthly Families Matter bitesize e-bulletin has regular updates, information, advice, and opportunities for you to join the Parent and Carer Council or one of our networks, support groups or attend a parenting session to meet other parents and carers, share your experiences and learn from each other.

For more information about the service, visit our website.

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