The holiday period can be a challenging time for a lot of people, but some additional support can make all the difference.

Here are some support services that will be available over Christmas:

Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme

This is aimed at children and teenagers, aged 5 to 16, who receive free school meals.

It will run one week during the Christmas holidays and can be booked through your child’s school.

What will your child have access to?

“Sports, arts, crafts, learning projects, music, outdoor activities, excursions and much more….” Learn more at www.families.newham.gov.uk

The Newham Food Alliance

The Newham Food Alliance is an open collaboration between partners who reach thousands of residents each week with food parcels, meals and other support.

If you are experiencing financial challenges and need help with food or other kinds of support, contact email frontdoor@newhamfoodalliance.org Newham Council or call at 07790 975 086 (Monday to Friday, 9am- 5pm).

Trouble accessing food not related to finances? Call the Covid-19 Helpline at 0207 473 9711 or covidhelp@community-links.org (open 9am- 7pm, every day)

For more details, visit:

www.newham.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-advice-support

Tricycle taxi services for wheelchair users (Forest Gate only)

You must be over 18
Free for Newham residents
Seating for one person
Slots are for 30 minutes or longer
This service is also offered to people with low mobility

This service is a partnership with Newham Council and Michael Striesow who is a qualified cycling instructor. If you don’t have a wheelchair, one can be provided.

To book, contact Forest Gate Community Neighbourhood Centre at: 0203 373 0856 or cn.forestgate@newham.gov.uk

Free Vitamin D Supplements for the over 65s

Newham Council is giving free vitamin D supplements for six months from November until Spring.

This is being provided because people aged 65 and older are at particular risk of a lack of vitamin D, especially during the winter period. Preventing vitamin D deficiency could have significant health benefits for this population who are at higher risk of weakened bone and muscle health.

To get more information speak to your GP or you can collect the supplements at the following locations without a GP referral:

Green Street Library
Plaistow Library
Katherine Road Community Centre
Upton Lane Medical Centre
Stratford Methodist Church
St Matthews Church
Ramgarhia Sikh Gurdwara East London

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