Local events, family days out exclusive resident offers inside
The Westminster City Council Magazine
FREE Garden Waste Recycling Trial
This trial is available to residents living in houses or houses converted into flats in Queen’s Park and Abbey Road wards.
Please sign up to recycle your garden waste.
Why join the FREE trial?
Completely free – we’ll provide reusable sacks and collect your garden waste at no cost.
Simple and convenient – your garden waste will be collected every other Wednesday right from your doorstep.
How to sign up
•
• Visit www.westminster.gov.uk/ garden-waste
• Email the Recycling Team on gardenwaste@westminster.gov.uk
• Call the contact centre on 020 7641 2000
Sustainable – everything we collect is taken for open-air composting and turned into nutrientrich compost.
Make a difference – by recycling your garden waste, you’re helping Westminster City Council boost recycling rates and support a more sustainable community.
For further information about the service scan the QR code or visit www.westminster.gov.uk/garden-waste
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US
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CONTENTS
YOUR NEWS
All the latest from Westminster including gearing up this summer for Notting Hill Carnival
The No Mow Movement
From wildflowers to buzzing bees – No Mow May kicked off a blooming brilliant summer in Westminster
Inside Out
Explore our programme of amazing free events coming up this summer including our fantastic inside out events
Westminster City Save
Make the most if your city with our fabulous discounts
Hidden Gems
Uncovering the best spots in and around Little Venice
Meet Storm Flowers
A florist with a secret
What’s on in Westminster
There’s plenty to see and do in the city - here are some of the current highlights
Homelessness Strategy
An update on our new homelessness strategy and support for rough sleepers
H ave your say
Voice your opinion on our ongoing consultations
Council services
How to get in touch with your council teams
Front cover photo: West End stars reopen
Who’s ready for Notting Hill Carnival
One of the biggest and most exciting events of the year is just around the corner — Notting Hill Carnival returns this August Bank Holiday weekend, and Westminster is getting ready to celebrate. A proud tradition since 1966, Carnival brings the streets of Notting Hill to life with Caribbean music, dance, food and colour, drawing crowds from all over London and beyond.
In the lead-up to the big weekend, the energy is already building. Mas bands are perfecting their costumes, sound systems are setting up their playlists, and local performers are preparing for two days of non-stop celebration. Whether it’s your first Carnival or your fifteenth, it’s always an unforgettable experience — full of joy, culture and community spirit.
We can’t wait to welcome you - Carnival is one of Westminster’s summer highlights, and this year will be as vibrant as ever.
Celebrating Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community
This June, Westminster was full of energy and celebration as residents and local groups came together for Pride Month. Events across the borough — from performances and workshops to talks and exhibitions — highlighted LGBTQIA+ culture, creativity and contributions.
Throughout the month, we shared stories and revisited past Pride highlights, celebrating the people and places that have shaped our community. Westminster has long played a key role in LGBTQIA+ history, with Soho at the heart of London’s vibrant scene.
We’re proud to honour the stories that make Westminster such a dynamic and welcoming place to live.
For more information on routes, timings, and top tips for enjoying the weekend visit: westminster.gov.uk/notting-hill-carnival
Stay active for less with the ActiveWestminster card
Tactive.westminster@gov.uk
he ActiveWestminster Card offers exclusive discounts at all Westminster leisure centres managed by EveryoneActive.
Cardholder benefits include:
Free swimming for eligible residents*
Discounted gym memberships
Lower prices for exercise classes
Reduced rates on sports bookings
Special access for schools & partner organisations
Who can apply?
Westminster residents, students, under-19s (or under25s with disabilities), schools, and ActiveWestminster partner organisations. *T&Cs apply.
How to apply
Bring proof of eligibility (e.g., ID, address, student card) to your nearest Everyone Active leisure centre and sign up on the spot!
Learn more & see all discounts active.westminster.gov.uk/activewestminster-card 020 7641 2012
FROM THE Leader
Welcome to this summer edition of Your Westminster – and as the weather turns (at last) for the better, you’ll notice a distinct outdoor flavour to these pages.
Millions of people come to our city from across the World in these months. For our residents, we want to make sure there is lots to do and enjoy for free. With school holidays on the horizon, have a look at the Inside Out feature for a selection of inexpensive things to do. And you can keep the costs down with CitySave which offers a range of promotions for local people.
Westminster is blessed with a significant number of green open spaces. Thanks to the success of our No Mow May campaign and its continued impact throughout the spring and into the summer, we’re now seeing biodiversity flourish across Westminster. On a green-fingered theme, read how the Storm Flowers business helped the community during lockdown and has thrived ever since.
There is an important update on our homelessness and rough sleeping strategy, so see how we are helping people off the streets and into the help they need. Rough sleeping is a complex issue often linked to mental health and addiction, and we are out round the clock to try and ensure people don’t stay on the pavement.
I always think our city looks its best in these summer weeks. Why not discover the hidden gems of Little Venice and enjoy an idyllic sunny day by the canal!
Best wishes
£1 MILLION COST OF LIVING
BOOST
e have added £1 million to our Cost of Living programme, now totalling £26 million.
Funds support essentials like food banks, community wardrobes, debt advice and holiday clubs, delivered through our partners including Age UK, Cardinal Hume Centre and local charities. westminster.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support
Cllr Adam Hug
Leader of Westminster City Council
This Spring we hit pause on lawnmowers
Welcome to our special celebbee-ty edition, where the stars aren’t just on the red carpet - they’re buzzing in your backyard! What began as No Mow May has blossomed into a whole season of support for local wildlife. We put the brakes on lawn mowers to let the wildflowers bloom and give busy bees and butterflies the feast they deserve. So, let’s meet our famous cele-bee-tys and find out why they’re loving the campaign.
NO MOW
Welcome, cele-bee-ty friends! Let’s start with Bee-llie Eilish. Bee-llie, how does No Mow May make you feel?
Bee-llie: Thanks for having me!
Honestly, No Mow May is beeyond amazing. It means more wildflowers and nectar, so I get to snack all day long. It’s like a fivestar buffet out there!
Throughout April, May and June
Cardi-Bee, you’re known for your energy. How does letting the grass grow help you buzz around?
Cardi-Bee: When the grass is left to grow, it’s like a wild party for us bees. More flowers mean more fuel to keep my beats and wings pumping strong.
Bee-yonce, what’s your message for gardeners who usually mow every week?
Bee-yonce: Listen up, gardeners! Give those lawns a break. When you don’t mow, you’re giving me and my friends a stage to dance on. Plus, it helps the whole ecosystem stay in harmony - and that’s flawless!
Buzz Aldrin, you’ve explored space, but what about exploring wildflower meadows?
Buzz: Space is vast, but so is the beauty of a meadow in No Mow May. Exploring these wild spaces helps pollinators thrive, which is essential for our planet’s future. Earth is the best mission.
Sting, you’re famous for your voice and your environmental work. How do campaigns like No Mow May resonate with you?
Sting: It’s music to my ears! Letting lawns grow naturally creates a symphony of biodiversity. It supports not just bees but birds, butterflies, and all kinds of critters. It’s a hit for nature.
Get involved
Help make Westminster greener by joining local eco-projects and events through the Fairer Environment Hub. Visit now to get involved and support wildlife in your community
westminster.gov.uk/fairer-environment-hub
After a dazzling refurbishment worthy of a standing ovation, the Official London Theatre Ticket Booth is open once more in Leicester Square, and it’s ready to steal the show! This grand reopening is a celebration of the strong partnership between the council and the Society of London Theatre (SOLT), who we awarded £165,000 to, to carry out the refurbishment of this iconic London landmark. It’s all part of our shared commitment to make theatres more accessible for everyone in Westminsterbecause everyone deserves their moment in the spotlight.
Did you know?
The Society of London Theatre has been “Defying Gravity” in Leicester Square since 1980, when it first opened as The HalfPrice Ticket Booth. With 45 years of history and countless curtain calls, it’s helped generations of theatregoers experience the magic of the West End for less.
The ticket booth offers up to 50% off top musicals, plays and live entertainment, with tickets available in person for same-day or up to a week in advance. No hidden drama, just great deals.
So, whether you’re feeling the rhythm of the night or want to seize the day, head to the Official London Theatre Ticket Booth today - because the West End is waiting in the wings, and the next act is all yours.
The Official London Theatre Ticket Booth Returns to Centre Stage
The ticket booth offers up to 50% off top musicals, plays and live entertainment
Official London Theatre
Leicester Square, WC2H 7DE www.officiallondontheatre.com 020 7557 6700
Step into summer with
Get ready - Inside Out is back this summer, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever before.
This much-loved free outdoor arts festival, which runs from July - September is once again transforming Westminster’s streets and open spaces into a joyful, vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and community.
From spectacular live performances to family-friendly workshops, Inside Out 2025 promises something for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or simply curious, the festival offers unforgettable experiences for all ages. You’ll find surprises around every cornerwhether you’re walking through a local square, passing by a familiar street, or exploring a new part of the city, the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
This year’s programme is specially designed to reflect Westminster’s incredible diversity and creative energy. It will shine a light on talented local artists, performers, and grassroots organisations - amplifying voices from every corner of the borough. It’s more than a festival—it’s a shared experience that brings people together through the power of the arts.
Whether you’re looking for free fun with the kids, a creative escape during your lunch break, or a cultural day out close to home, Inside Out 2025 is not to be missed. Let’s step outside and celebrate summer –together.
Visit our website to discover what’s happening near you and how you can get involved.
Fitzrovia Fete 2025
Fitzrovia Fete is back – and you’re invited! A fun day for FREE with live music, street performances and plenty to keep all ages entertained. Pop by for some tasty food, meet your neighbours, or simply soak up the good vibes. No need to book – just come along and enjoy a brilliant day out in Fitzrovia!
Sunday 10 August, 1 to 5pm, 2 Foley Street W1W 6DL (between Cleveland Street and Ogle Street)
Sounds of Reggae at The Photographers’ Gallery
Join us for a vibrant outdoor party in the heart of London as we celebrate the enduring sounds and influence of reggae music as we journey through the roots and evolution of reggae over the years. There will be DJ sets, talks throughout, and much more!
Saturday 16 August 12pm to 4pm
Strut the Triangle at Triangle Studios
Strut the Triangle is a month-long creative programme culminating in a vibrant outdoor fashion and performance event, celebrating local talent and community. Through workshops and collaboration, residents will gain new skills and confidence while showcasing their style. Workshops will take place from 1 to 28 August, at Triangle Studios, with the final event happening on Saturday 30 August 2025 at Church Street Triangle, from 2 to 4pm.
Our residents’ membership scheme is free to join and offers amazing discounts and savings, including...
WILD BY TART
15% off weekday lunches
Tucked away in the charming Eccleston Yards, Wild by Tart is a hidden gem that delivers on all fronts — style, flavour and feel-good vibes. This beautiful, airy restaurant is known for its vibrant, seasonal dishes made with the freshest ingredients, and it’s quickly become one of our favourite spots for a midweek pick-me-up.
Whether you’re catching up with a friend over a long lunch, heading there for a relaxed working meeting, or just stealing a quiet moment away from the city rush, Wild by Tart hits the spot. Think wood-fired flatbreads, colourful salads, and sharing plates that look (almost) too good to eat. It’s the kind of place where you linger longer than planned, sipping something delicious and losing track of time in the best way.
P.S. We popped in recently and were blown away — the food was genuinely out of this world (we’re still thinking about that burrata), and the space is just as stunning as the menu. Cosy, elegant, and full of natural light — it’s made for cute catchups and feel-good food.
City Save card holders get 15% off weekday lunches, so there’s no better excuse to treat yourself.
3-4 Eccleston Yards, SW1W 9AZ wildbytart.com 0203 848 6240
FUL London
15% off FUL Haircare
Looking to refresh your haircare routine? FUL London is offering an exclusive 15% discount for City Save card holders on their full range of professional-grade haircare products. Whether you’re after deep hydration, repair, or added shine, FUL’s award-winning formulas deliver salon-quality results at home. Shop online at your convenience and use the code WEST15 at checkout to claim your discount.
fullondon.com
Westminster Abbey
Up to £22 on discounted tickets
Explore one of London’s most iconic landmarks for less with your City Save card. Westminster Abbey is offering discounted admission — save up to £22 when you book in advance online using your City Save membership. Discover centuries of British history, from royal coronations and weddings to the final resting places of poets, scientists and monarchs. It’s a must-visit for residents looking to reconnect with the rich heritage right on their doorstep.
Dean’s Yard, SW1P 3PA westminster-abbey.org
Brit Music Tours
2-4-1 Tickets
Step into the world of British music legends with Brit Music Tours, now offering a 2-for-1 deal for City Save card holders. From The Beatles to Queen, explore the iconic locations that shaped the UK’s music history with expert guides and fascinating stories along the way. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious to see another side of London, it’s a brilliant way to experience the city’s cultural roots.
Book online and use the code CITYSAVE at checkout to unlock the offer — and don’t forget to bring your card on the day of your tour.
westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/twoone-brit-music-tours britmusictours.com info@britmusictours.com
Bach to Baby concerts
20% off tickets
Enjoy beautiful live classical music with your little ones at Bach to Baby family concerts — now offering 20% off tickets for City Save card holders. These relaxed, welcoming concerts are designed for children and their grown-ups, with top-quality performances in stunning Westminster venues. It’s a lovely way to introduce children to classical music in a fun and informal setting. To claim your discount, simply book online and use the code CITYSAVE at checkout.
St Gabriel’s Church, Warwick Square, SW1V 2AD
westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/bachbaby-family-concerts
Theatre in the Garden
20% off tickets
This summer, experience unforgettable open-air theatre at The Actors’ Church in the heart of Covent Garden! From timeless Shakespeare to familyfriendly adventures and beloved literary classics, our stunning private garden sets the stage for a magical season of performances. Don’t miss this unique chance to enjoy live theatre in a truly special setting. Exclusive City Save offer available on all productionsexcept The Taming of the Shrew. Enter MYWEST25 into the promotion code box for 20% off our Theatre events.
St Pauls Church, Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED
westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-city-save/ westminster-theatre-garden ben@actorschurch.org 0207 836 5221
Want to promote an offer?
Promote your business or service to local people by submitting an offer. Over 80,000 people living in Westminster are registered for a Westminster City Save card. westminster.gov.uk/westminstercity-save/businesses citysave@westminster.gov.uk 0207 641 6000
Sign up for your City Save card today and start making the most of Westminster!
westminster.gov.uk/city-save citysave@westminster.gov.uk
0207 641 6000
In each edition of YourWestminster, we’ll bring you a guide to the hidden gems of the city. In this issue, whether you’re catching a show in the Theatre District, browsing the iconic markets, or dining at world-class restaurants, Little Venice invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and charm of Westminster.
Grand Junction - Rowington Close, W2 5TF
Nestled within the awe-inspiring St Mary Magdalene Church, Grand Junction is a hidden cultural gem in Little Venice. This vibrant venue hosts live music, talks, art exhibitions, and community events in a breathtaking Grade I listed setting. Blending historic architecture with a modern creative spirit, Grand Junction offers a unique space to experience culture, connection, and calm—whether you’re attending a show, joining a workshop, or simply enjoying the peaceful café. grandjunction.org.uk
0207 266 8258
Canal Walks
Little Venice, W9
Discover one of London’s most peaceful strolls along the canal walk in Little Venice. Lined with colourful houseboats, waterside cafés, and leafy paths, this peaceful path offers a scenic escape from the city buzz. Whether you’re heading toward Camden or simply unwinding by the water, it’s a perfect spot for a slow walk, quiet reflection, or a moment of riverside charm in the heart of Westminster.
Why not try a boat trip from Little Venice to Camden Lock market. info@jasons.co.uk
Clifton Nurseries
5A Clifton Villas, W9 2PH
Tucked away in the heart of Maida Vale, this leafy hideaway is a true hidden oasis — and one of London’s best-kept secrets. As one of the city’s oldest garden centres, Clifton Nurseries offers
far more than just plants (though the selection is stunning). Think lush greenery, stylish homewares, expert gardening advice, and a peaceful, almost magical setting that feels a world away from the city buzz. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or simply looking for a quiet moment of calm, this is the perfect spot. Wander through rows of palms, ferns, and flowering treasures, then settle in for a coffee or light lunch at the charming on-site café — ideal for a midweek catch-up or solo recharge.
And don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by a certain furry friend — Clifton’s resident cat has called the nursery home for 14 years, adding an extra touch of charm to an already enchanting place. This is a true gem for garden lovers, homeware hunters, and anyone in search of a little peace and green inspiration.
www.clifton.co.uk 0207 289 6851
Waterside Cafe
Warwick Cresent, W2 6NE
This cosy, narrowboat café serves up hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and freshly brewed coffee, all with a side of canal-side calm. It’s the perfect pit stop for a peaceful moment, whether you’re strolling along the towpath or exploring nearby Regent’s Park. Grab a seat on deck when the sun’s out and watch the world drift by - ducks, narrowboats and all. Friendly, unpretentious, and full of charm, it’s a true local favourite that feels like a little escape from the city rush.
Rembrandt Gardens
6 Warwick Avenue, W2 1XB
Tucked away beside the canal in Little Venice, Rembrandt Gardens is a peaceful retreat bursting with seasonal flowers and hidden charm. This beautifully maintained green space offers benches, shaded paths, and views over the houseboats below - perfect for a quiet moment or a scenic pause along the Canal Walk. Whether you’re a local looking for calm or a visitor in search of a secret spot, Rembrandt Gardens is a tranquil gem in the heart of Westminster.
Tell us about your hidden gems!
Got a favourite café, a green space you’d love to share, or a secret spot that fills you with joy? We want to hear about the areas of your neighbourhood that make it your Westminster! Email us at yourwestminster@westminster.gov.uk or write to the council address on page 3 and your own hidden gem might feature in a future issue!
In the vibrant streets of Soho, Storm Flowers is more than just a florist—it’s a blooming beacon of creativity and care.
“We’ve pledged money to support the school when it was going through difficult times, and used our company van to collect donations from the harvest festival which we delivered to a local foodbank in Westminster.”
Joao
and the Stories Behind
This independent company is run out of St Anne’s Church clocktower, just off Wardour Street, where each bouquet carries a touch of local charm and passion. We caught up with Storm Flowers founder, Joao, about nurturing community roots and the inspiration behind the blog.
You’re based in St Anne’s Church, Soho, how has being there helped you connect with the local community?
As a florist, we create weekly flowers for Church services and volunteer our time cooking for the senior citizens’ lunch club and annual St Anne’s Day BBQ. A large part of our business is Christmas, so we decorate trees for the Church and donate a Christmas tree to the local Soho Parish Primary School, which is just around the corner. We’ve pledged money to support the school when it was going through difficult times, and used our company van to collect donations from the harvest festival which we delivered to a local foodbank in Westminster.
We love your Secret
Gardeners blog series, what inspired you to start shining a light on everyday gardeners and their green spaces?
During the pandemic, our team started doing more work in their own green spaces at home. We wanted to share their stories of what they were up to, and it was a way for us all to stay connected when we were unable to work. Soho is full of secret green spaces, which we love to explore whether they are public green spaces like the Phoenix Garden in Soho, or a private green sanctuary belonging to someone in our local community.
the Secret Gardeners
Do you remember the first ‘secret gardener’ you interviewed? What made their garden or story stand out?
One of the first interviews we did was with the owner of a townhouse garden in Dean Street. The gentleman who looks after the garden has a few mature plants including apples and plums which is very unexpected to find in a small space. His front ‘garden’ consists of containers by the railings on street level, and through some incredible garden engineering he has successfully cultured an orchard on the street with tree roots growing down pipes. It’s a beautiful sight when the blossom flowers are in bloom and an inspiration to other urban gardeners.
Has anyone’s gardening story really stuck with you or changed the way you think about your own green space?
We recently interviewed the gardeners of a local space called Soho Roof Garden, a community garden belonging to a local resident block. It was a total eye opener to see how just how beautiful a small space in Westminster can be – tall trees and fragrant roses – made possible by the hard work from the residents who tend to the plants, whose dedication is inspiring.
“As a florist, we create
weekly
flowers for
Church services and volunteer our time cooking for the senior citizens’ lunch club and annual St Anne’s Day BBQ.”
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start gardening but doesn’t have much space or experience?
Start with a small pot or container on your windowsill or balcony. Think about the amount of light you’ve got, and get a good compost mixture. Don’t feel that you need to be an expert before you start – just start slowly with a few plants, be patient and keep going; if one plant doesn’t work for you, another one will.
Want to discover more inspiring stories from Soho’s green spaces? Visit Storm Flowers’ Secret Gardeners blog to explore the hidden gardens and meet the passionate locals behind them: The Clocktower, St Anne’s Church Wardour Street, W1D 6AF stormflowersgarden.com florist@stormflowerslondon.com 07786 513 106
If you’re a Westminster City Save cardholder, you can enjoy a special discount at Storm Flowersbringing a little extra bloom to your day: westminster.gov.uk/westminster-city-save/ 20-storm-flowers-garden
Groove onto the Moon
Blast off on a musical space adventure with Groove onto the Moon. Designed for children aged 3 to 7 and their grown-ups, this 50-minute interactive show combines live funk, jazz, and rock with storytelling and animation. Follow three young astronauts on a mission to find Neil Armstrong’s first lunar footprint. Performances at 11am and 2pm. Tickets are Pay What You Can (£4, £7, or £10) Saturday 26 July, Grand Junction, Rowington Close, W2 5TF grandjunction.org.uk/grooveonto-the-moon/ 0207 266 8258
Regent’s Park Music Festival
Enjoy 46 free concerts this summer at the Regent’s Park Music Festival! Running every weekend until 21 September, the festival brings live music to the park’s iconic bandstand, with performances from concert bands, jazz groups, and community ensembles. It’s the perfect soundtrack to a sunny afternoon. No booking neededjust drop by and enjoy the music!
Until Sunday 21 September
Regent’s Park regentsparkmusicfestival.org.uk Your
Art Therapy
Taking place in a lovely neighbourhood cafe, release your creativity and improve well-being through guided art activities, in a safe, supportive space. You don’t need to book a space. You can just drop by, and, better yet no experience needed – just an open mind and a willingness to explore. 3pm – 4:30pm, every Friday Pimlico Cafe
119 Lupus Street, SW1V 3EN theabbeycentre.org.uk/art-therapy 07845655872
Women’s Support Group
For Women CIC hosts a free support group at Victoria Library’s mini hub every Monday. Open to all women, the sessions offer a welcoming space for conversation, wellbeing activities, and community connection. No booking required - just drop in. Whether you’re seeking support or simply a friendly chat, you’re warmly invited.
11am to 3pm, every Monday
Victoria Library 160 Buckingham Palace Road SW1W 9TR westminster.gov.uk/event/ womens-support-group 020 7641 6200
Are you a local business with an offer to share with our readers? Send the details to the address on page 3 or to yourwestminster@westminster.gov.uk and we’ll look to include you on our website and in a future edition of this magazine!
Theres lots to do in Westminster during the summer holidays. Sports, music, dance, arts and crafts, and inclusive SEND activitieseveryone can join the fun!
Stay active, eat well, have fun!
Make the most of summer holidays! It’s not just about having fun — the activities are designed to help build confidence, boost mental wellbeing, and develop important social skills. Plus, every child and young person who takes part gets a healthy, nutritious meal each day.
Find out more and book a place by scanning the QR code or visiting: ourcity.org.uk/haf-programme
We have launched our new Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy that sets out how the council intends to proactively prevent homelessness.
Our new Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy
For the next five years the council commits to:
Early Prevention: To make support in the community easy to find and readily available to support people at risk of losing their homes.
Crisis Response:
To quickly provide relevant and practical advice to people facing homelessness.
The launch comes at a time when the UK is facing a housing crisis, and many households in Westminster are feeling the pressure. The Westminster Homelessness Review showed a 34% rise in households needing housing in 2022/23, with over 3,600 families living in temporary accommodation. Westminster also has the highest number of people sleeping rough in the country, partly because of its central location and issues like a shortage of affordable homes, relationship breakdowns, and poor health.
Rehousing and Recovery:
To improve re-housing and recovery support within quality accommodation.
This plan will build upon previous successes and put individuals and communities at the heart of it. We will utilise key public services such as youth centres and GP surgeries to spot those at risk of homelessness and get them the help they need sooner. It has been co-produced with people with lived experience that understand the challenges of those facing homelessness.
Resettlement:
To provide personalised and targeted resettlement support.
Leader of Westminster City Council, Cllr Adam Hug, said: “Homelessness and rough sleeping is a critical issue for the council. We recognise the need for collaboration both with people with lived experiences and partners across London to put an end to homelessness. westminster.gov.uk/ homelessness-strategy2025-2030 housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk 0800 358 3783
TAKING ACTION ON ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND STREET SAFETY
Alongside our homelessness strategy, the we are taking stronger action against anti-social behaviour (ASB) particularly connected to what happens in our public spaces and on our streets.
By working closely with the police, outreach teams, and local communities, the council is aiming to keep public spaces safe and welcoming for everyone.
Our approach focuses on offering help and support first, with enforcement used when needed. This balance ensures vulnerable people get the support they need, while residents can enjoy safer neighbourhoods.
New measures introduced to support this action include:
a £500k investment in new CCTV to double the number of cameras to 200, which includes 40 additional cameras for the West End.
the launch of a new Street Based Intervention Team, combining City Inspectors and Homeless Outreach officers. the recruitment of more City Inspectors to keep the city’s streets clean and safe - both boosting deployment in existing teams and creating a new 8 member specialist ASB team.
Need help or want to Report something? If you see or experience ASB, report it quickly to the council: westminster.gov.uk/report-asb
Stay prepared this summer
Temperatures could rise over the summer months, so it is important to stay comfortable and safe:
Drink plenty of water
Check on older or vulnerable neighbours
If you need advice or support, please call 020 7641 6000 westminster.gov.uk/heatwave-advice
Wear a hat and sunscreen if you’re outside
Keep indoors during the hottest hours (11am–4pm)
Use curtains or blinds to block the sun
Avoid heavy outdoor activity during peak heat
Check out our new flood strategy
Climate change means that extreme weather events are more likely than ever, which puts Westminster at greater risk of flooding.
We have published our Local Flood Risk Management Strategy to help the city become more resilient and help achieve wider environmental benefits. We worked with residents, businesses, partners and other organisations to create this strategy, and make sure it reflects everyone’s priorities.
Read the full strategy: westminster.gov.uk/localflood-risk-managementstrategy
Public engagement survey (Page 29/48 in the strategy)
Help Shape the Future of Westminster!
We’re inviting you to play a vital role in shaping our community through the Our Westminster initiative.
By working together, we can build a more inclusive city that celebrates our diverse communities, and where residents, workers and visitors from all backgrounds will feel welcome and safe. However you want to get involved, there are many ways you can have your voice heard.
Find out more and sign up today westminster.gov.uk/our-westminster 0207 641 6000
Find out about more consultations at our hub: westminster.gov.uk/consultations
Inspiring experiences for every child in Westminster
We believe every child should have the chance to try ten different activities before they turn ten.
Join in competitive team sports
Play an instrument
Learn to swim
Take part in drama and performing arts
Visit the seaside and countryside
Experience museums, galleries, and heritage sites
Take part in camping trips and overnight residentials
Learn to ride a bike
Take part in debating
Join a library and use it at least 5 times a year 1 2 3 4
Each activity is a fun way for your child to discover new skills, build confidence, and find interests that could last a lifetime.
Some of these activities might already be available through your child’s school — feel free to check with the School Administrator to find out more. You can also explore lots of exciting options we’ve gathered, many of which are free or low-cost. Be sure to check the website regularly — we’re always adding new activities!
Visit our website for directory of free and low-cost activities for your children: westminster.gov.uk/10by10
General Contact Details
020 7641 7000 responsewcc@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk
Adult Education
020 7297 7297 info@waes.ac.uk www.waes.ac.uk
Adult Social Care
020 7641 2500 adultsocialcare@ westminster.gov.uk www.peoplefirstinfo.org.uk
Animal Welfare
awarden@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ animal-welfare
Anti-Social Behaviour
0800 358 3783 housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster. gov.uk/housing
Archives
020 7641 6200 archives@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ archives
Benefits
0800 072 0042 westminster.benefits@ secure.capita.co.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ benefits
Births, Deaths and
Marriages (Register Office)
020 7641 7500 registeroffice@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ birth-and-death-certificatesmarriages-and-citizenship
Business Unit
020 7641 2070 businessunit@westminster. gov.uk www.businesswestminster. com
Cemeteries
020 8567 0913 parks@westminster.gov.uk
Children/Family Information Service
07971 625 922
FIS@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ children-and-education
Council Tax
0343 178 2743 westminstercounciltax1@ secure.capita.co.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ council-tax
Health & Wellbeing
020 7641 7000 www.westminster.gov.uk/ health-and-social-care
Housing Services
0800 358 3783
housing.enquiries@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ housing
Leisure Centres
active@westminster.gov.uk www.active.westminster.gov
Libraries
020 7361 3993
020 7641 6200 libraries@westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ libraries
Parking
020 7823 4567 parkingservices@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ parking
Pest Control
0800 358 0514 pestcontrol@westminster. gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ pest-control
Recycling/Rubbish
020 7641 2000 www.westminster. gov.uk/recycling
Report It
www.westminster.gov.uk/ report-it
SEN
020 7361 3311
SEN@rbkc.gov.uk localoffer.westminster.gov.uk
Street Markets
020 7641 8549
020 7641 7010 streettradinglicensing@ westminster.gov.uk www.westminster.gov.uk/ markets
Westminster Connects 020 7641 1222 westminster.gov.uk/ westminster-connects
Westminster Employment Service
07971 026709 employmentteam@ westminster.gov.uk westminster.gov.uk/wes
