To mark one year on from the first day of the first lockdown on 23 March 2020, we are reflecting on how Westminster residents have stepped up to support their communities.
During the first lockdown, new programmes were created in response to the crisis such as the Westminster Connects volunteering service. 3,000 volunteers were mobilised within weeks and since the start of the pandemic the service has helped around 27,000 people.
The volunteers delivered 65,000 meals from Unity Kitchen based on the 19th floor of Westminster City Hall, prescriptions and a friendly ear over the phone for those who felt isolated.
We reached out to residents and communities - adults and young people - to ensure they received critical support, visiting those who were most vulnerable and helping people at home after they were discharged from hospital. Over 500 refurbished laptops were donated to families in need and isolated older people during lockdown.
266 rough sleepers were supported into emergency accommodation, where they received medical, mental health and employment support. Working with Housing Services and partners including St. Mungo’s, The Connection at St Martin’s, The Passage and West London Mission, the Rough Sleeping team has since moved over 430 people into long-term housing.
Whether practical help or offering advice, the message throughout this trying time has been the same – whatever we have faced, the people of Westminster are there for each other.
Useful information
- National lockdown measures
- Westminster Connects offers information, support and advice to those who are vulnerable
- Find out how to get tested for COVID-19
- Find out more about the vaccine rollout in Westminster