Back to school
We hope everyone has had a good first week back at school, college or work. We’re teaming up with various organisations, including education partners and youth and community groups, to ensure our children and young people can return from the summer holidays into the new term safely and enjoyably. These organisations were in the town centre this week to be visible and approachable, offering guidance to young people travelling to school. It’s part of our ongoing work to ensure they can fulfil their potential while staying safe.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme
This week I have written to the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson MP, to call on the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme to be extended next year, to ensure the vital support it provides for our many residents continues. The HAF programme provides our families receiving benefits-related free school meals with access to free, safe, supported care, healthy fun and activities and a hot healthy meal. But the HAF programme’s current round of funding is due to end in March 2025, so I hope that the Secretary of State for Education will appreciate why I believe it should continue after this date.
TackleLondon event
Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Homes, Cllr Lynne Hale, attended the TackleLondon event at the House of Commons. The event was a joint initiative between several charities, including The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation in memory of the Croydon police sergeant who was killed on duty. It featured young people from Meridian High School, and aims to prevent knife crime by using sports to promote a positive lifestyle for our young people. I am looking forward to supporting TackleLondon’s future initiatives.
New Addington walkabout
I recently had the pleasure of catching up with Michael Lyons (pictured) during a walkabout in New Addington. Many people know the 91-year-old as a local volunteer for the Royal British Legion and as a campaigner, having successfully lobbied to honour soldiers from the First World War who were institutionalised due to the debilitating impact of the conflict on their mental health. As we approach the anniversary of Remembrance and Armistice Day, where we honour the sacrifices and bravery of those who have served this country, we are discussing being able to mark their dedication with a memorial garden for the community in the grounds of the former Alwyn Club in New Addington.
Weekend festival fun
I’m also looking forward to this weekend, attending Purley Festival on Saturday and Sunday, along with the Thornton Heath Festival and the Friends of Selsdon Wood Open Day, both of which are on Sunday. I hope your families get to enjoy these events.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
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