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20 Local Initiatives in Our Communities

20 Local Initiatives We Love

With so much uncertainty right now, we’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of goodwill, help and initiatives in our communities right now, whether you’re looking for a culture fix, some fantastic deliveries, or even a pony visit to your window…

 

1 

The Avenue Cookery School

With more time on people’s hands to enjoy some therapeutic home cooking at the moment, the Avenue Cookery School is getting people in the kitchen with their Keep Calm and Carry on Cooking initiative. Keep an eye on their social media channels and newsletters as they gear up to bring south west London some home cooking via live streams.

2 

Bayley & Sage

The grocery store, with a number of stores across south west London, has announced the launch of a delivery service, enabling usual customers that are self-isolating to receive their luxury goods and fresh produce whatever the circumstances. Keep your eyes peeled for more details as they are announced on their website.

3 

The Grand Hall from the Community Brain

The minds behind the Community Brain have set up a Grand Hall, allowing people looking for a chat to pop in and out – virtually, of course. With a main room for general chatter and smaller rooms set aside to learn skills, play games etc. there is something for all to enjoy. Check out Robin Hutchinson’s guest post here, for more information on the project and some words on the situation we now find ourselves in.

4 

Fulham Palace

The palace has encouraged gamers to discover their inner architect by creating a virtual Fulham Palace on Minecraft, available on consoles such as the PS4 and Xbox. Post the results to grab the attention of their social media channels.

5 

Wimbledon Community

Literature fiend? With your regular book cancelled, set up a virtual one. Join Wimbledon Community’s new online book club forum to discuss books and make suggestions for future reads – they have just started with Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.

6 

Moxons

Moxons Fresh Fish has announced it will be passing on the savings made from the price drops of the products they source from coastal areas to customers – NHS staff will also receive an extra 20% off.

Unprepared for the move from office block to home office? Take a look at some of our home office inspiration.

7 

Wandsworth Council

The council have now publicised the details of how to get in touch with their community hub. If you know of someone who may be in need of support and assistance at this time, get in touch to see what arrangements can be made. They can be reached on 0208 871 6555.

8 

Community Socials

The power of social media and local community platforms is being demonstrated more than ever right now. Up to date information, advice, lists of food outlets open and uplifting community stories are being promoted and engaged with by the likes of Love Wimbledon and Positively Putney, as well as good old Time & Leisure.

9 

Naturally Chinese

Surbiton’s go-to for a scrumptious Chinese feast will be staying open for takeaway services between Thursday and Sunday for the foreseeable future. They cater to all dietary requirements, with vegan options, gluten free dishes and no MSG! Check out their website here.

10 

National Theatre

The National Theatre has announced the launch of National Theatre at Home. Content and productions will be uploaded to their Youtube channel over the coming months, ensuring theatre fanatics don’t miss out on the drama.

11 

Yum Sa

Putney’s Yum Sa has announced it will be pumping its revenue for the present month into helping those in the community by doing what they do best – serving delicious food. Those in need of supplies, or struggling with the current situation, can benefit from a visit from their ‘Yum Van’.

12 

The Park Brewery

As the weather improves, many of us will be looking to enjoy a drink in the garden over the coming weeks and months. Selling mini-kegs and cans of their tasty beers via careful deliveries, the Park Brewery are also asking locals to reach out to them if they know anyone working hard for the NHS in the nearby Kingston Hospital – they will be sending out vouchers to be used in store once some normality has resumed.

13 

Park Lane Stables

Park Lane Stables has been bringing some much needed animal therapy to those staying at home. Their beautiful ponies have been touring the streets of Teddington to put smiles back on faces of little ones dealing with the confusion and frustration of isolation. See where their ponies will be next by following their social media channels.

14 

Ricardo’s Cellar

If the self-isolation wine supply is running low, you can rely on Twickenham-based Ricardo’s Cellar to get you through the drought. With delivery services now running through Deliveroo and directly, why not enjoy a virtual wine-tasting evening with friends, from the comfort of your lounge?

15 

Attic Theatre Company

Providing educational entertainment is on the Attic Theatre Company’s Agenda, with the digital release of their original Suffragette drama The Rebellious Women of Wimbledon. The performance is available online to download or listen to now.

16 

Nightingale Pasta

Having been laid off due to the effect COVID-19 is having on the hospitality and catering industries, Nightingale Pasta is the brainchild of two Balham-based chefs. Fresh pasta and sauces are simply combined and delivered to locals, on foot, at very affordable prices.

17 

London Mozart Players

Following venue closures and the cancellation of their events and concerts for the foreseeable future, the London Mozart Players will be going digital to entertain classical music fans across the nation. Their new online feed will bring fans behind-the-scenes action, interviews, and of course – a calming dose of Mozart!

18 

LEON

Usually filling the tummies of Britain with healthy fast food options, LEON Wimbledon has now converted into a market. Cupboard necessities such as eggs, bread and the elusive toilet roll are on offer, as well as alternative milks and tasty preserves.

19 

Kingston Council

The council’s latest initiative is a partnership with Kingston Voluntary Action and Volunteering Kingston to launch a new volunteering hub for the borough – Kingston Stronger Together. Details of how local residents can help at this time are available on their website, and frequently updated.

20 

Vintage Fish Wimbledon

The local favourite for a fishy Friday treat have brought in a number of measures to ensure the safety of staff and customers. Orders can now be made directly via telephone, through Deliveroo delivery, or on their app ‘Vintage Fish’. NHS staff receive 25% discounts, while the elderly and those working in public service will have priority at all times.