Delivering for our residents - get involved Here to help Meet Theresa and Sonjide, two Local Area Co-ordinators
RESIDENTS SAFE What we are doing to crack down on anti-social behaviour
Inspiring experiences for every child in Westminster
By recycling, you are helping tackle climate change and encouraging us all to live more sustainably.
Since March 2022 we have collected over 4,200 tonnes of food waste to be recycled from our residents!
Most residents now have access to a food waste recycling service. Why not join your neighbours and start to recycle your food waste? If you aren’t sure how to start recycling your food waste, or don’t have access to the service yet, please contact us via:
Recycling Team: foodwaste@westminster.gov.uk
Call centre: 020 7641 2000 www.westminster.gov.uk/food-waste-recycling
Remember that all food waste from chicken bones to banana skins to coffee grounds can be put in your food waste bin. If you need food waste liners, kitchen bins or outdoor bins, please do get in touch.
All the food waste we collect is recycled at an anaerobic digestion facility outside London.
Food waste generates harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Using this service will help reduce waste and tackle climate change.
Your food waste will be used to create renewable energy used to generate electricity to power the national grid and heat for homes.
Food waste will also be transformed into a biofertiliser, which will be used on farmland to grow more food.
YourWestminster is published by Westminster City Council
Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street London, SW1E 6QP
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To contact us on any of the content in this issue, you can email yourwestminster@westminster.gov.uk 0207 641 1386 or write to YourWestminster
Westminster City Council 17th Floor, Westminster City Hall 64 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QP
Westminster City Council’s email newsletters are a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest news, offers and events. For more information about the range of newsletters visit westminster.gov.uk/newsletters
Follow
All the latest from Westminster including free activities and food during the school holidays
Fairer Westminster
Our delivery plan for the year ahead and how we plan to deliver a Fairer Westminster for our residents
Tackling anti-social behaviour
Discover how we are taking action to tackle ASB and create a safer Westminster
Find out about the online resources we have available to help support your wellbeing
Celebrating our LGBTQIA+ community with the Westminster LGBT+ Forum
Hidden Gems
Uncovering the best spots in and around Covent Garden
Faces of Westminster
Coming together to help people through the cost-of-living crisis
Celebrating Women’s History Month
There’s plenty to see and do in the city
Westminster City Save
Make the most if your city with our fabulous discounts
Have your say
Voice your opinion on our ongoing consultations
Council services
How to get in touch with your council teams
Need a helping hand to navigate life’s ups and downs? Our Local Area Coordinators are here for you!
Based in select areas of Westminster, they’ll take the time to listen, support and guide you toward making positive changes - big or small. They’re a friendly face in the neighbourhood, working within the community to support anyone who needs them. There’s no referral process, no time limits - just a simple introduction to get started!
Find out more: westminster.gov.uk/ localareacoordinators
“I provide support and guidance at a pace that feels right for you, helping you navigate life challenges with clarity and confidence.”
“My
et ready to paint the town with melodies as West End LIVE celebrates its 20th anniversary!
On 21 and 22 June, Trafalgar Square will transform into a theatrical wonderland, offering free performances from London’s most acclaimed musicals. This year’s lineup will be unveiled in May, but anticipation is already building for another unforgettable weekend. Accessibility is a priority, with dedicated viewing areas and services to ensure everyone can enjoy the performances. Mark your calendars and prepare to be dazzled.
We are excited to share new budget measures that prioritise the safety and well-being of our residents.
A key focus is housing, with £140m allocated to buy temporary housing to reduce the council’s reliance on expensive hotels and offer a more secure alternative to people on the housing waiting list. In our commitment to making Westminster a safer place to live, we’re investing £2 million to tackle anti-social behaviour, including expanding our CCTV network with up to 40 new cameras in very busy areas such as Soho and Leicester Square.
We’re also boosting support for rough sleepers with a £1.2 million fund to help them transition off the streets. £2.6 million will go towards adult social care, including £1.2 million to help hundreds of residents under 65 keep more of their income, and £1.4 million to ensure more than 400 personal care assistants receive fair pay. Despite these investments, council tax will rise by just 48p a week for Band D properties. We’re working hard to balance targeted support with keeping costs low for our residents. Find out more about our budget measures here: westminster.gov.uk/news/new-budget-measures
Welcome to this spring edition of YourWestminster. It’s an edition with a focus on keeping local people safe. As councillors, we know anti-social behaviour is an issue that can blight neighbourhoods and make us nervous to walk in certain areas. It is corrosive and destructive.
As you see on page 8, we are doubling the number of CCTV cameras across the city, creating a new team to target ASB and employing more officers to tackle noise nuisance. The aim is to target problem areas as they arise and before they take root. We also recognise assault can happen behind closed doors, and there is a list of resources to tackle domestic violence on page 9.
As a council, we keep working to help household budgets through the cost of living crisis. Read about Mary Smith’s Pantry and St Mary’s Church, two incredible community-led initiatives going above and beyond to support local households in need.
One bill we have done our best to contain is Council Tax. There are huge financial pressures on the council, but we have kept the Band D increase to just 48p a week.
As spring approaches, I hope everyone enjoys getting out and around Westminster – our Hidden Gems section on page 14 may provide some inspiration for a great day out!
There’s lots to do in Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea during the school holidays. Sports, music, dance, arts and crafts and inclusive SEND activities - everyone can join the fun! You’ll also get a healthy meal and snacks each day you attend. It is free for families eligible for free school meals.
Find out more and book a place: www.ourcity.org.uk/haf-programme
Cllr Adam Hug
Leader of Westminster City Council
We’re working to make Westminster a fairer place for everyone - where all residents can live well, find opportunities, and feel part of a healthy, welcoming community. As we enter year three of our Fairer Westminster Strategy, we are proud of the progress we’ve made and excited about what’s to come...
Our plan is guided by five key pillars
Creating inclusive, safe and supportive neighbourhoods.
Increasing affordable homes and improving housing quality. Strengthening local businesses and creating job opportunities.
Tackling the climate crisis and enhancing green spaces.
Ensuring transparency, accessibility and community-led decision-making.
Supporting residents through the cost of living crisis: Since 2022, we’ve given £26 million to help families with rising costs. This year, we’re tackling poverty long-term and ensuring all Westminster school children (ages 3-14) get free lunches, with £1.56 million more invested.
Improving housing and homelessness support: We’ve opened four new Housing Service Centres for easier local support and expanded Temporary Accommodation, helping over 600 households. With £23 million in funding, we’re adding 150 winter beds and boosting mental health and addiction support as part of our new homelessness strategy.
Strengthening our local economy: Westminster drives 5% of the UK’s economy, yet one in four children here faces poverty. We’ve invested £27 million, supported 20,000 small businesses, and helped 2,000 residents into work. Our Westminster Works initiative has also created 500 jobs and apprenticeship opportunities for residents.
Making Westminster greener and more sustainable: We are leading the way in tackling climate change, aiming for Net Zero by 2040. Our transport plans make walking, cycling and public transport easier, and we’ve installed 2,480 EV charging points – the most in the UK. Plus, our new food waste recycling service now reaches 113,000 homes.
Listening to and empowering residents: Through resident forums and community events, we have put local voices at the heart of decisionmaking. The launch of our Community Participation Charter sets clear standards for how we engage with residents, ensuring that our services are transparent, inclusive and responsive.
Promote more direct community involvement
And much more…
We are proud to be a council that listens, learns and acts together with you to create a brighter future for Westminster. Check out the Fairer Westminster plan, stay updated on our progress and get involved by westminster.gov.uk/fairer-westminster
Here are some of the ways you can get involved and make your voice heard:
Sign up to receive our newsletters
Join our events
Join our youth council
If you have any other questions please get in touch: 020 7641 6000 fairer@westminster.gov.uk
We’ve brought together a highly skilled team with years of experience in rough sleeping support and city management. They’re already out and about, starting in the Victoria area, tackling persistent street-based ASB and helping those who need support. Once we see real improvements in Victoria, we’ll expand this work across Westminster to areas facing similar challenges.
We’re doubling the number of CCTV cameras and adding eight ASB-focused City Inspectors. Our Street Based Intervention Team has the power to issue community protection warnings and notices for anti-social behaviour such as street drinking, begging, and disruptive conduct. If needed, we can also apply for court orders to prevent individuals from returning to problem areas. We’re using every tool at our disposal to keep our streets safe while making sure that people in need get the right support.
Together, we can make a real difference.
Let’s keep Westminster a city we can all be proud of.
e know how important it is for our residents, businesses, and visitors to feel safe and comfortable in our city. That’s why we’ve launched a brand-new Street Based Intervention Team - a dedicated group of council officers working on the ground to tackle antisocial behaviour (ASB) and make Westminster a better place for everyone.
In addition to our Street Based Intervention Team, we’re bolstering efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour by doubling our short-term lets enforcement team. This expansion adds two dedicated officers to address illegal shortterm rentals that often lead to noise and disruption. We’re also increasing our noise team to better manage disturbances such as loud music and parties, making sure our streets and open spaces stay clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.
Tackling ASB isn’t something we can do alone. That’s why we’re working together with our City Inspectors, Rough Sleeping Coordinators, and ASB caseworkers. We’re also teaming up with local Business Improvement Districts, outreach services, and the police to take a joined-up approach that delivers real results.
We love our city, and we know you do too. By tackling ASB head-on, we’re making Westminster a safer, more welcoming place for everyone. We’ll continue working hard to improve our streets and support those in need, and we’d love your help in reporting any ASB concerns so we can act quickly.
Experiencing ASB in Westminster can be distressing, but there are several ways to report it and seek assistance:
If you are a Westminster Housing tenant you can report ASB: 0800 358 3783
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm westminster.gov.uk/form/ report-anti-social-behaviour
If a crime is in progress or there’s immediate danger: 999
For non-urgent matters requiring police attention: 101 You can also report a crime anonymously: 0800 555 111 crimestoppers-uk.org
Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding, challenging experiences in life. Whether you’re expecting your first child or welcoming a new addition to your family, it can be an emotional time filled with unparalleled joy, uncertainty, and anxiety. Just like physical health, your mental health is crucial during the perinatal period – from pregnancy through to your child’s second birthday. Your borough has your back to help you do just that.
It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions as a new parent, but when those feelings become overwhelming or persist, it’s important to reach out for more support.
Specialist Health Visitors provide one-on-one support at home or within a Family Hub for families experiencing mental health difficulties in the perinatal period. Family Hub staff, your Health Visitor and GPs can refer you.
Talking Therapies offers free, confidential support for people aged 18 or over living in or registered with a GP in Westminster. They can support if you’re feeling low, anxious or depressed. The service can accept referrals from your GP, another health professional or you can refer yourself.
westminster.iapt@nhs.net 0303 333 0000
Home Start works with families in communities. There is no judgment; it is just compassionate, confidential help and expert support.
admin@hswestminster.co.uk 0207 724 1345
Working with new and expectant parents with babies from 0 to one year old across five locations in Westminster, Maternity Champions are trained local people who provide support, parent and baby groups and signpost to local services. Rosana@pdt.org.uk 0752 2499 066
If you’re in crisis or struggling to cope, help is at hand. Contact the NHS 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Line. 0800 0234 650
Visit our Wellbeing Hub: www.westminster.gov.uk/ support-families-and-thoseunder-25
If you are suffering from domestic abuse and need confidential support, there are a number of different ways that you can get support.
For 24-hour, confidential support: nationaldahelpline.org.uk 0808 2000 247
Contact the Angelou services angelou.org 0808 801 0660 0208 741 7008
If you are a male victim, you can contact Cranstoun: cranstoun.org/help-andadvice/domestic-abuse 0203 326 8764
For girls aged 13 to 25, help is available: advancecharity.org.uk
maia@advancecharity.org.uk 0800 059 0117
There is specialist help available for members of the LBGTQIA+ community: galop.org.uk 0800 999 5428
Those with disabilities can get help from Stay Safe East: staysafe-east.org.uk 0800 059 0108
Help is also available for refugees who can contact Solace Women’s aid: solacewomensaid.org 08088025565
Further support: westminster.gov.uk/domesticabuse-and-violence-againstwomen-and-girls 0800 358 3783
If you are in immediate danger, please call the Police 999
For all other reports, please call 101
Westminster is home to a vibrant and diverse LGBTQIA+ community, and LGBT+ History Month was a time to celebrate, reflect, and look ahead. We caught up with members of the Westminster LGBT+ Forum to hear what the month meant to them and why it’s so important to keep sharing stories, honouring history, and standing up for equality.
What is the significance of LGBT+ History Month, and why is it important for communities like Westminster?
Lorenzo LGBT+ History Month is vital as it documents the ongoing struggle for justice and equal rights, from securing civil partnerships to broader legal protections. It resonates with other marginalised communities and honours the bravery of those who fought - sometimes at great personal cost - to bring us to where we are today. Figures like Alan Turing (see right), whose genius saved thousands of lives, serve as a reminder of the importance of recognition and inclusion.
Patrick Remembrance and recognition of LGBT+ communities is vital to establishing an inclusive Westminster. In both distant and more recent history, LGBT+ people have been erased from history or remembered as villains for their refusal to conform to social and legal expectations. Not only have LGBT+ people made substantial contributions in the history of Westminster, but it is
also important to highlight these contributions to create a more welcoming and inclusive society going forward.
Megan It’s a chance to put context to why we still actively encourage discussion about inclusion; being considerate of what the community has been through and celebrating those who have been brave enough to make positive change.
How has representation and visibility for LGBTQIA+ people changed over the years in Westminster?
Lorenzo Westminster, home to Soho and the heart of Pride and Trans Pride, has long been a hub of queer activism and culture. Many recall their first visit to an LGBT+ space here, making it deeply significant.
Pippa In more recent years there has been a marked shift from rejection to understanding and hopefully growing acceptance that LGBT+ people are just part of the marvellous diversity of humanity.
How can local councils, businesses, and residents help create a safer and more supportive environment?
Patrick In recent years, Westminster has done a good job of changing the ways that LGBT+ communities are remembered - in archives, in libraries and in the arts more generally. It would be great if the councils, businesses and residents could find a way to be more supportive of queer nightlife in Westminster.
Megan By supporting a positive narrative, ensuring their policies and internal culture reflect treating people fairly; and to get involved - show up but also learn, we’re all always learning, no one person’s experience is the same.
The Westminster LGBT+ Forum is free to join, offering support, events, and resources for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies in Westminster. Be part of a volunteer-run group dedicated to building an inclusive, resilient community. westminsterlgbtforum.co.uk
wlgbtcf@gmail.com
What does the Westminster LGBT+ Forum mean to you?
Lorenzo We work to create a safe, inclusive space free from bullying. As Admin and Policy Consultant, I’ve drafted governance policies to support this mission. We actively listen to Forum members and Westminster residents to ensure accessible spaces for all, especially underrepresented communities. As a queer artist, I want to see creative spaces where everyone can thrive.
Pippa The Forum exists to connect, support, make visible and celebrate our local LGBT + communities. We encourage awareness of the distinctive issues - such as much higher rates of homelessness - faced by such groups, but in the process aim by doing so to contribute to the improvement of the wellbeing of everyone in our city.
Alan Turing was a mathematician and codebreaker, best known for his role in breaking the German Enigma code during World War II - an achievement that helped shorten the war and save countless lives. He is also considered one of the founding figures of modern computing.
However, despite his groundbreaking contributions, Turing was persecuted for being gay, which was illegal in the UK at the time. In 1952, he was convicted of “gross indecency” and given the choice between imprisonment or chemical castration - he chose the latter. Two years later, in 1954, he died of cyanide poisoning in what was officially ruled a suicide, though some theories suggest it may have been accidental.
Turing was pardoned in 2013. In 2017, the UK government introduced ‘Turing’s Law’ pardoning thousands of other men convicted under historical anti-gay laws. Today, he is celebrated as an LGBTQIA+ icon and a pioneer of technology.
Alan Turing was born in Westminster at his home at Warrington Lodge, 2 Warrington Crescent in Madia Vale. Here you will find a blue plaque commemorating him for his achievements.
In the heart of Pimlico, Mary’s Pantry is more than just a food resource - it’s a lifeline for the community. Named after Mike Smith’s late mother, Mary, who was known for her kindness, the pantry continues her legacy of helping others.
Mary’s Pantry provides affordable groceries, with members paying just £5 for £20 to £30 worth of food. More than that, it’s a welcoming space where people can enjoy tea, coffee, and conversation, reducing isolation while meeting essential needs.
“Don’t be afraid to use our services. There’s no shame. With food, you either use it or lose it.”
With donations from City Harvest London, Felix project, FareShare, Sainsbury’s, and local residents, the pantry offers a mix of fresh and tinned goods. Unlike other food services, Mary’s Pantry keeps things simple – just a quick registration form with no intrusive questions, just support. As Mike says, “Don’t be afraid to use our services. There’s no shame. With food, you either use it or lose it.”
Mike, known as a true community gem, hopes to expand with cooking sessions and advice workshops. His dedication ensures Mary’s Pantry remains a place of dignity, kindness, and practical support for all who need it.
131 Lupus St, Pimlico SW1V 3EN
mike52smith@live. co.uk
This Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the amazing work happening right here in Westminster to make our city safer and more welcoming for women and girls.
Emmanuella Fadire, one of our passionate Women’s Safety and Hate Crime Officers, shared how two initiatives are helping to build a brighter future for women in Westminster. She said:
“Our ‘It’s Her City Too’ campaign is a powerful reminder that women belong in every corner of Westminster, day and night. This initiative brings together local businesses, residents, and authorities to challenge outdated attitudes and tackle street harassment head-on. Through workshops, improved public spaces, and a network of allies, we’re creating a culture where respect and safety come first.
Meanwhile, our Night Stars volunteers are transforming the night-time experience in Westminster. Operating on Friday and Saturday nights, these incredible volunteers provide essential support to anyone in need. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, first aid, or directions home, their presence ensures that women and vulnerable individuals feel supported and safe.”
By creating a Westminster that champions safety, respect, and inclusivity, we’re honoring the contributions of women — past, present, and future — and paving the way for a city where everyone feels they belong
“a powerful reminder that women belong in every corner of Westminster, day and night” Want to get involved?
Inspired and would like to volunteer with our Night Stars scheme? Find out more:
westminster.gov.uk/night-stars
nightsafe@westminster.gov.uk
0207 641 6000
“Who runs the world, GIRLS!”Beyoncé
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, Covent Garden invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and charm of Westminster.
41 Earlham Street, WC2H 9LX
Donmar Warehouse is a must-visit for theatre lovers, offering intimate, innovative performances in a converted warehouse. Known for bold, thought-provoking productions, it’s a true highlight of London’s theatre scene. Plus, with your CitySave card you can get £20 tickets if you are aged 35 and under, it’s an affordable way to enjoy world-class drama. westminster.gov.uk/westminster-city-save/ ps20-tickets-donmar 020 3282 3808
Slingsby Place, WC2H 9EF
Tucked away from the busy streets, St Martin’s Courtyard offers a stylish blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation. This open-air space is home to independent boutiques, global fashion brands, and a selection of top restaurants with al fresco seating. A peaceful escape from the crowds, it’s perfect for a leisurely lunch, boutique browsing, or evening drinks. With a mix of culture and calm, St Martin’s Courtyard brings a unique charm to the heart of London.
theyardscoventgarden.co.uk
(The Actor’s Church)
Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED
Known as the “Actor’s Church,” St Paul’s Church offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustle of the area. This 17th-century church features elegant Georgian architecture, a tranquil courtyard, and a rich history tied to the world of theatre. Memorials to actors and performers adorn its walls, offering a glimpse into the church’s cultural significance. A serene space to reflect and connect with the arts, St Paul’s is a must-visit for those seeking history and calm in the heart of London.
actorschurch.org 020 7836 5221
1 Tavistock St, WC2E 8BD
Open everyday, Jubilee Market is a treasure trove of independent stalls, vintage finds, and artisan crafts. Unlike the busier main piazza, Jubilee Market has a charming, authentic atmosphere, perfect for discovering unique gifts or chatting with friendly traders. Whether you’re hunting for collectibles or handmade treasures, this hidden gem is a must-visit.
jubileemarket.co.uk
020 7379 4242
WC2E 7BB
The London Transport Museum explores the evolution of the city’s iconic transport system. Housed in a former Victorian market hall, it features vintage buses, historic Tube trains, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can step aboard classic vehicles, uncover the design behind London’s famous Underground map, and discover how transport shaped the capital. Perfect for all ages, it’s a fascinating look at the past, present, and future of getting around London.
www.jubileemarket.co.uk 020 7379 4242
21 Wellington Street, WC2E 7RQ
The Lyceum Theatre is one of London’s most iconic venues, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Known for its grand architecture and stunning interiors, it has hosted everything from Shakespearean plays to legendary concerts. Today, it’s home to Disney’s The Lion King, a breathtaking production that continues to captivate audiences. Whether for its history or worldclass performances, the Lyceum remains a cornerstone of London’s vibrant theatre scene.
www.thelyceumtheatre.com 0207 206 1174
Tell us about your hidden gems!
On Wednesday 14 May, The Porterhouse Bar in Covent Garden will host a special celebration to mark 250 years since the birth of J.M.W. Turner, one of Britain’s most admired artists. Set on the very site of his birthplace, the event promises an exciting day of art, beer, and festivity in honour of this iconic figure. The Turner Society will lay a wreath beneath Turner’s green plaque, while artist Adam Dant unveils a 10ft x 10ft map showcasing Turner’s life and legacy. The occasion will also feature live art creations inspired by Turner’s famous works and a limited-edition Turner-inspired beer brewed specifically for the event.
Join fellow art lovers, history enthusiasts, and beer aficionados to raise a glass to Turner’s enduring impact on the art world. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to toast a true master in the heart of Covent Garden. No booking required! porterhouse.london/events/ 0207 379 7917 enquiries @porterhouse. london
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!
Experience the magic of Tales - designed for ages 3 and up, this 50-minute performance features music, puppets, and dancing, encouraging kids to use their imagination and participate in the storytelling. Tickets are available on a ‘Pay What You Can’ basis, with options at £2, £5 (recommended), and £7. Family tickets for up to four people are also offered.
grandjunction.org.uk/ product/tales-from-theshed-2025/ 020 7266 8258
Tuesday 8 April
Showtimes at 11am and 2pm Grand Junction, W2 5TF
Join a free, family-friendly West African Drumming Workshop, no prior musical experience is required - just bring your enthusiasm! Please note that all children must be accompanied by an adult. Due to a limited number of drums, advance booking is essential. Ensure you reserve enough tickets for each family member who wishes to join. One ticket equals one drum. westminster.gov.uk/event/ west-african-drummingworkshop-familieswestminster-music-library 020 7641 6200
Saturday 12 Apri
Westminster Music Library WC2H7HP
Looking to sharpen your chess skills or learn the game? Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome. No booking is required; simply walk in, sit down, and enjoy a game. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your memory, focus, and creativity while having fun. westminster.gov.uk/event/chess-cornerchurch-street-library 0207 641 5490
10am to 6pm everyday Church Street Library
67 Church Street, NW8 8EU
Come along to Talking Tables, a weekly gathering at The Abbey Centre designed for individuals over 50 to meet new people, share experiences, and enjoy friendly conversations. The sessions include free tea and coffee, board games, and a variety of activities such as IT skills, gardening, crafts, bingo, massages, and jewellery making. The cost is just £1 per session. Booking is required. theabbeycentre.org.uk/talkingtables/ mona.said@theabbeycentre. org.uk 07593 756 077
Wednesday, 12pm to 3pm The Abbey Centre, SW1P 3BU
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!
Childcare
Health
School
Free
family hubs where you can access lots of different services from pregnancy through to your child turning 19, or 25 if they have a disability. This includes baby and toddler groups, parenting support, SEND services and much more.
We’re inviting every child in Westminster to take part in our 10 by 10 programme – an exciting challenge to try out 10 inspiring activities before they turn 10 years old.
These activities will help children gain new skills, grow in confidence, and develop lifelong interests. Plus, many are free or low-cost across Westminster.
Collect stickers in your special 10 by 10 booklet to celebrate each achievement and see your progress grow! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
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 five times a year
Scan here for the 10 by 10 directory of free and low-cost activities for your children www.westminster.gov.uk/10by10
Many of these activities are already happening at your school. Please speak to your School Administrator to find out more.
Explore even more fun, free, or low-cost activities on our website. New ones are added regularly!
Our residents’ membership scheme is free to join and offers amazing discounts and savings, including...
16-18 Ramillies Street, W1F 7LW
Enjoy 50% off full-price exhibition tickets. Your ticket grants admission to all exhibitions on the day of your visit. Show your City Save card at the ticket desk or use the code WCS when booking online. thephotographersgallery.org.uk 0207 087 9300
95 Wilton Road, SW1V 1BZ
Enjoy a 20% discount on all services at Pimlico Computers, your local and reliable IT support provider - offering a range of services for domestic and commercial needs. Mention you are a Westminster City Save member when booking. Please note, this offer is valid for work carried out Monday to Friday and is subject to terms and conditions.
223a Randolph Avenue, W9 1NL
Enjoy a six-week yoga course at Iyengar Yoga London, ideal for beginners. This course offers an opportunity to learn the basic postures and principles of Iyengar yoga in small, focused classes. The course includes six 75-minute sessions, along with two 90-minute beginners’ classes, and a three-month membership to the studio. Normally priced at £85, Westminster City Save cardholders can join for just £60. Use the code WESTMINSTER when booking online, or show your card at the studio.
iyengaryogalondon.co.uk 0207 624 3080
6 Sir Simon Milton Square SW1E 5DJ
Enjoy a 25% discount on food, drinks, and social darts, available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 6pm, for groups of up to 12 people. Book online and mention your Westminster City Save membership, or present your card upon arrival. Please note, this offer cannot be combined with other promotions.
flightclubdarts.com/locationvictoria 0203 019 3093
pimlicocomputers.co.uk 020 7630 7512 enquiries@pimlicocomputers.co.uk
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 641 600
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
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.
Do you have ideas to improve our borough? Through the Register of Active Residents, you can join focus groups, community events, training and other opportunities to shape local services and the future of Westminster.
“I’ve joined several panels because I want to see things change. It’s about bringing residents and the council together to shape the future.”
David Chair of the Ingestre Court Residents Association
Another way to get involved is through Westminster Connects, our community volunteering initiative. Whether you have an hour or a whole day to spare, you can support vulnerable residents, help charities, or assist at local events.
“Volunteering has given me a sense of belonging. It’s rewarding to know I’m making a difference while being part of a supportive community.”
Fatima Westminster Connects volunteer
Now is the time to get involved! Whether you join a panel, volunteer, or simply share your thoughts, your contribution will help make Westminster a better place for all.
There are many ways to be part of your local community:
Stay updated on the latest news and events
Attend council meetings and share your thoughts
Join residents’ associations and meet like-minded people
Take part in community conversations through Westminster Together “Westminster
is my home, so what happens here matters to me. It’s time for us to engage with the council and help shape our community.”
Margaret, Volunteer
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
e’re excited to launch the draft Westminster After Dark Strategy 2025-2040 — our bold plan to create an evening and nighttime experience that’s safe, vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable. From safer streets and greener spaces to supporting local businesses and celebrating our diverse communities, this strategy balances the needs of residents, businesses and visitors alike.
The strategy has been shaped by extensive public engagement, including feedback from residents, businesses, cultural institutions, and night-time workers. As part of the consultation process, we are inviting further input from stakeholders to refine and strengthen the final strategy.
Have your say — read the draft strategy and complete our consultation to help shape Westminster’s future after dark.
www.westminster.gov.uk/westminster-after-dark 0207 6417 555 westminsterafterdark@westminster.gov.uk
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
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
020 8567 0913 parks@westminster.gov.uk
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
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
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
The Royal Parks will be working hard with our event organisers to minimise disruption to park visitors and the local community.
If you have a question or comment about events in the Royal Parks: Email eventfeedback@royalparks.org.uk
During an event, call 0300 061 2222
Schedule of events:
American Express presents BST Hyde Park
Swim Serpentine
GOSH Race for the Kids
Friday 27 June to Sunday 13 July
Open House:
Monday 30 June to Thursday 3 July
Monday 7 July to Thursday 10 July
Sound check times will be available 28 days before event at: royalparks.org.uk/whats-on
All Hyde Park roads close at 11am on concert days
Saturday 20 September
Saturday 11 October
Royal Parks Half Marathon Sunday 12 October
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
November, December and January (except Christmas Day)