Making Croydon safer is a priority for me and this week we’re inviting community organisations to apply for grants to fund local projects.
These will support young people to improve their lives and help divert those at risk away from crime.
We’re undertaking a survey to help guide us in preparing our strategy for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), which is due to be published in the spring. As part of this we’re also asking residents who have used domestic abuse and sexual violence services to tell us about their experiences of the support available locally and what could be improved. To take part and help us tackle violence against women and girls in Croydon click this link.
This week I visited Mind in Croydon to hear about their work to support and empower people and promote good mental health across the borough. It was good to have a discussion with service users about issues affecting them and Croydon more widely. I’m proud of our partners in the community and voluntary sector who are dedicated to ending the stigma around mental health and supporting people who need to talk.
I also visited the opening of the new Men’s Shed at St Francis Church in Monks Hill, Selsdon. The Men’s Shed is a great way for men to reach out, learn new skills and to feel comfortable discussing their own mental health. The Men’s Shed repair shop opened in conjunction with the launch of new cooking classes at St Francis providing local people with valuable skills.
Saturday marks the two-year anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine – we will be lighting the Town Hall up in yellow and blue and remain committed to supporting our Ukrainian friends.
Croydon FC’s Ryan Hall hit the headlines this week after he scored the fastest goal ever setting a world record. Footage of the goal featured on BBC News at Ten after Ryan hit an incredible 50-yard strike just 2.31 seconds from kick off. Congratulations Ryan, what a goal!
Lastly, I would like to wish Roy Hodgson all the best as he leaves his role as manager of Crystal Palace FC. Roy is a Croydon boy through and through and was honoured with the Freedom of Croydon back in 2018. His contribution, not only to Palace, but to English football has been incredible. Thank you Roy.
Have a great weekend everyone.
Jason Perry
Executive Mayor of Croydon
