Mayor Woodley column: why we're funding free events this summer

Mayor of Hackney Caroline Woodley's column in the July and August 2024 edition of Love Hackney:

IT feels like summer has finally arrived here in Hackney, which makes this edition of Love Hackney extra special as I introduce our Summer Activities Guide.

This edition of the magazine includes 16 extra pages packed with details of fun events and activities families and young people can do in Hackney over the summer holidays, most of which are free to attend, and will entertain children of all ages.

Supporting and funding a programme of summer events is a small but significant way the Council is helping parents and carers who, due to the rapidly increasing cost of living, have less cash to spare this year and are looking for fun ways to keep children happy, healthy and entertained over the weeks ahead.

These events take place across the whole borough during the six-week school summer holidays. Many need booking in advance, so please don’t miss out. If it is easier you can also access the programme online: bit.ly/yhsummerguide

I will drop into some of the activities over the summer, so I might see you there!

Since I last wrote, I’ve joined many local events – ranging from opening a new community garden created by Core Arts, a leading mental health creative education centre, to thanking the incredible volunteers at the newly refurbished premises of the Hackney Children and Baby Bank and at the Ivy Street Family Centre. These are just a few examples of the inspiring organisations in Hackney dedicated to helping when they are most in need.

I also attended our first nature recovery conference – about how we restore habitats, protect wildlife and combat climate change through collective change – and had the opportunity to hear about the work that is carried out all year round by local experts and volunteers.

On 22 June I was honoured to join Windrush Day events across the borough. It was a really moving day full of passion, politics and promise.

Last year, on the 75th anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush arriving at Tilbury Docks with 500 passengers from the Caribbean, we planted three hornbeam trees in Stonebridge Gardens to commemorate the Windrush generations past, present and future.

This year, we gathered again with residents, campaigners and representatives to install a plaque honouring this pioneering generation, and then spent the afternoon together with Windrush elders, friends and families to enjoy music, dance and good food. While this day is certainly a time for celebration, it is vital that we also continue to come together in reflection and solidarity.

I hope you all have a great summer, whatever you get up to. I’ll write to you again in the autumn, as we prepare for Hackney Carnival!