Mayor's Voice

Last month we saw a big shift in getting back to (a new) normal, with many people returning to their physical place of work – either full time or on a part-time or rotational basis. We also saw the return of children to school, something that I think is fundamental to a child’s development.

I believe that having purpose, a structure to your day and some sort of routine is important to anyone’s mental health, but particularly the next generation. And although most children have seemed to cope really well with lockdown and staying in touch with friends on social media or online, there’s nothing better than face to face conversations.

On the subject of mental health, I visited the Transport for London Green Street Green Bus Garage and received a wonderful welcome. It was great to get a tour of each of the departments and see how the bus garage has been so proactive in helping support mental health and wellbeing.

My duties this month have been varied and, as usual, really interesting. I paid a visit to Orpington Fire Station to thank them for all that they do to keep us safe. I met with the Bromley Borough Commander and his team and presented them with a welldeserved Certificate of Commendation. Later this month I’ll be meeting the Ambulance service, so it will be nice to have met all three emergency services to be able to thank them in person.

Other visits have included thanking a food bank centre, visiting IDVerde to acknowledge their help in keeping all the parks open and safe over lockdown, a service at the RAF Chapel at Biggin Hill to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VJ Day and

DAY OPPORTUNITIES

PROGRAMME FOR DISABLED ADULTS

Bromley Mencap run a Day Opportunities Programme for disabled adults. The Programme enables you to meet with friends, try new activities and learn new skills.

For more details on the programme call Caroline Stone on 020 8466 0790 or email caroline.stone@ bromleymencap.org an Olympic Sport prize giving event at the Diagrama Foundation.

Last but not least, I’ve been ensuring that the Mayor Of Bromley Facebook Page is updated to bring you the latest news – keeping you informed of my visits and also adding nuggets of information. For example, did you know that the London Borough of Bromley was formed in 1965 and was an amalgamation of the former boroughs of Beckenham and Bromley, the Urban Districts of Orpington and Penge, and parts of Chislehurst and Sidcup Urban District. Prior to 1965 these were all in Kent, with Penge having been in Surrey before 1889 and in the county of London until 1900.

We learn something new every day as they say!

Until next month….

Cllr Hannah Gray

Mayor of Bromley

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS The Spirit of Christmas Fair will be back at London Olympia from 2nd – 8th November, presenting a curated Christmas shopping experience where you can discover unique gifts and treats. For details see www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk