Free family fun this half term

[MyWestminster Updates]

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Friday 24 October 2025
Welcome to MyWestminster, your weekly update on everything happening in your city. This week:
* Free Family Fun (#main)
* More From the City (#city)
* What’s on in Westminster (#whatson)
* Have Your Say (#say)
* Public Health Updates (#health)

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GO SWIMMING FOR FREE IN WESTMINSTER: Children in Westminster are being offered free swimming sessions at council run pools next week (27 to 31 ;November). Any child who lives in the borough, and an accompanying adult, can swim for free in Westminster Leisure Centres throughout half term. This is the first time the council’s free-swimming offer has been extended to include accompanying adults – offering local families chance to spend time together and use council facilities during school holidays without worrying about the cost.
* The offer is valid one free adult per qualifying child.
* Free swimming session times availability vary by leisure centre, check their website for details.
* Kids under eight require supervision by an adult over 18 in the water, with a maximum ratio of two children to one adult.
* Participants must register for the ActiveWestminster card in advance. All children must be residents to quality for the scheme.
* All swim sessions must be pre-booked. Wristbands to be collected at reception.

Find out more details including opening times (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=3b5490e5d8&e=7e37558eca)
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HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN: Free and low-cost activities including arts and crafts, sports and youth clubs will be taking place this half-term for children and young people in Westminster. There will be a wide variety of clubs catering to different ages and abilities, and offering a healthy meal too.
Find out what's happening this half term (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=7c6585fe21&e=7e37558eca)
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CELEBRATING SAFELY: As Westminster celebrates Halloween and Bonfire Night, we want everyone to enjoy the festivities safely. We’re working with the London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police to prevent firework misuse and keep our neighbourhoods peaceful. Please remember that fireworks should never be used in public spaces or near roads. Bonfires are not allowed in homes or estates, and anyone under 18 must not have fireworks in public. Together, we can make every celebration safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all.
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YOUR VOICE, YOUR WESTMINSTER: On 7 May 2026, you have the power to choose who leads the services that shape your lives and neighbourhoods. Your voice matters. Your vote is the first step towards a Westminster that reflects your values, your needs, and your community. Every decision starts with you. Make it count.
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STRICTLY COME DANCING HAS NOTHING ON US: Last week, Porchester Hall came alive with energy and joy as 10 incredible finalists took to the stage for the Dance Westminster grand final. The event showcased the talents of disabled residents aged 15 to 92, dancing everything from Bollywood to Ballroom. With over 230 people cheering them on, finalists dazzled celebrity judges Wayne Sleep OBE, Angela Rippon CBE, and Flavia Cacace-Mistry.
Find out who won! (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=420c3dc776&e=7e37558eca)
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A NEW CHAPTER FOR CULTURE IN THE WEST END: The West End Arts Library has officially reopened just between Leicester Square and the National Gallery. We’re getting started with an exhibition from the Professional Cartoonists’ Organisation (running until 31 October). This is just the start of a whole calendar of vibrant, cultural events and exhibitions which will be taking place at the library. Come and explore the only specialist arts library in the West End, this is your chance to discover unique resources in art, design, music and performance!
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SNAIL FARMS TO AVOID TAX – I’M JUST AS CONFUSED AS YOU: More offices with boxes supposedly containing snails in the West End have been uncovered by council officers seeking to crack down on a bizarre tax attempted business rate avoidance racket. In the offices there were a relatively small number of sealed boxes purporting to contain snails. This is an on-going issue in these two buildings and is an attempt to avoid the payment of business rates (NNDR).
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NO LAFUFUS AROUND HERE: Trading standards officers have impounded hundreds more fake Labubu dolls and illegal vapes after visiting shops in Queensway. At one store the haul included 151 fake Labubu figures of various siezes while at the second address officers impounded more than 300 disposable single use vapes - now illegal - along with suspect nicotine pouches, travel adapters, and 14 packets of illicit cigarettes. When officers arrived at the store they found the illegal vapes and a quantity of alcohol - which the shop was not licensed to sell.
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OUR FIRST PRIVATE RENTERS FORUM: We are hosting our first Private Renters Forum on Monday 10 November, 1pm to 5pm at Porchester Hall (W2 5HS). The forum is designed to support private renters, giving you the chance to learn about the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, hear how Westminster’s Selective Licensing Scheme will work and access advice from housing professionals, community organisations, and council teams. Attendance is free and refreshments will be provided.
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CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH: This October, we are proud to celebrate Black History Month under the theme ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride.’ We’re hosting a range of inspiring talks and creative workshops to heritage celebrations and leadership series that honour the achievements, leadership, and cultural contributions of Black communities – past, present, and future.
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COMMUNITY WELLNESS AND RENEWAL: Join the team at The Exchange (W9 2DB) from 3pm to 7pm for their community gathering, designed to bring hope, healing and renewal to everyone. This is your time to refresh your mind, restore your wellbeing, and rekindle your sense of purpose. Whether you’re seeking Transformation in your health, family, or personal life, there’s something here for you. Come just as you are and be inspired by knowledgeable speakers, uplifting stories, and testimonials from past participants. Everyone is welcome and refreshments will be provided.
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ENJOY WESTMINSTER WITH CITY SAVE: Our residents’ membership scheme is free to join and offers amazing discounts and savings including:
* Enjoy two for one Brit Movie walking tours (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=ec486d519d&e=7e37558eca) and visit TV and movie locations featured in your favourite TV and film productions.
* Enjoy Lyceum Venue Tour - £5 discount (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=6cc30e12ad&e=7e37558eca)  and explore the parts of the theatre that often go unseen.

Get your City Save card today and enjoy! (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=01ecd05b8d&e=7e37558eca)
GET YOUR FESTIVE OFFERS IN!

With more local people out enjoying local events and activities, now’s the perfect time to get your business seen. Join Westminster City Save and promote your offer to thousands of residents, completely free. Whether it’s a discount, 2-for-1, or a seasonal deal, we’ll help get the word out.
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SELECTIVE PROPERTY LICENSING IS COMING TO WESTMINSTER: From 24 November, selective licensing will be in force across most parts of the city. This means that more private landlords, lettings and managing agents operating in Westminster must obtain a licence for homes. Licence holders will have to comply with conditions relating to the safety, management and condition of the property - failure to get a licence could result in prosecution or a financial penalty. Licence applications are now open.  Want to know if you need a licence for your property? Join our drop-in session or webinar to learn what the rules mean for you, how to apply, and what steps you need to take before the deadline.
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JOIN US AT THE NEXT WESTMINSTER TOGETHER: Leader of the Council, Cllr Adam Hug is hosting the next Westminster Together event on 11 November, giving residents and businesses the chance to put questions to the Leader and our Cabinet Members. You can attend in person at Porchester Hall, where you’ll also be able to speak with council officers before the Q&A session begins. Officers from services including housing, environment, anti-social behaviour, jobs and community services will be available to help with your queries. Or you can watch the live stream online – and you can still put your questions to councillors.
* Where: In-person at Porchester Hall, Porchester Rd, W2 5HS or online
* When: Tuesday 11 November, 6pm to 8pm
+ 6pm to 7pm – speak with council officers on our information stalls
+ 7pm to 8pm – Q&A with councillors

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WHERE TO GO FOR NHS CARE:  To get the right care quickly and prevent local hospitals from becoming overwhelmed this winter, please remember these NHS services are open and available to you:
* Pharmacy: For minor illnesses, medicines, and health advice. Some pharmacies can also offer prescription medicine for certain conditions. Find out more on the NHS website (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=85bcdc12af&e=7e37558eca) .
* GP Practice: For health concerns and non-urgent problems.
* A&E: For serious or life-threatening emergencies.
* NHS 111: If you’re unsure where to go, call NHS 111 or visit the NHS 111 website (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=27606ad193&e=7e37558eca) for free advice and guidance 24/7.

Using the right service means faster care for you and others.
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HELP US UNDERSTAND LONELINESS: To better understand loneliness in our community, we’re working with Imperial College London and inviting you to participate in the INTERACT Study. This is a short, anonymous survey that helps us understand how people feel about their social connections and community. By taking part, you’ll help shape local services and support networks to make our city a more inclusive, connected place for everyone.
Get further information and resources (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=0bda242a03&e=7e37558eca)
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