Growing community out of the Pandemic - positive plans from Harlesden

 

The pandemic has taught us many lessons some of which point to a more positive future. Mutual Aid volunteers in Harlesden have identified a demand for fresh fruit and vegetables, a strong grasssroots desire for opportunities to connect  with and support one another and a recognition that community projects, gardening and interaction with nature are good for our physical and mental health.

Harlesden Town Garden have linked up with Mutual Aid to grow food for people who need it in the community. The food growing project is Brent-wide and organisers are currently looking for growing spaces and schools and community groups who would like to be involved.

Mutual Aid currently has a small plot in the Harlesden Town Garden and are also maintaining an allotment at the Longstone Avenue site where the plot holder is unable to maintain the plot during the pandemic.  They are currently looking for secure sites on which to grow food.

Contact details: info@harlesdentowngarden.co.uk 

Kensal Green Mutual Aid: LINK

@KGMutualAid  

Friends of Harlesden Town Garden are holding their Annual General Meeting on February 13th via zoom. They are looking for new committee members. If you wish to attend the AGM please email using the address above and you will be sent the link.

Local Covid19 testing site to open tomorrow for Harlesden residents

From Brent Council

A new local COVID-19 testing site will open in Harlesden Town Garden on Wednesday 10 June for local residents.

As this area has one of the highest death tolls from COVID-19 in the UK, it’s hoped that the testing site will help to drive down these numbers by ensuring that those who have symptoms can get tested in an easily accessible location locally. If they test positive they can then take the necessary steps to self-isolate at home and prevent the spread of the virus.

This will be key to supporting those who may not be able to travel to one of the other test centres.

Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt said:

“COVID-19 has not gone away and it is still killing people in our community.

“I am urging any local residents, if they have symptoms, to get tested now to protect yourself and others, and help to stop the spread of this virus.”

Key information:

Where will the site be located?

The testing site will be at Harlesden Town Garden, Challenge Close, Harlesden, NW10 4BF.

When can I get a test?

The testing site will be open from Wednesday 10 June. Appointments will be available every day from 10am-5pm.

Tests must be booked by calling us 020 8937 4440. The line will be open seven days a week from 9am-5pm.

Who can book a test?

You can book a test if:

• You have symptoms of COVID-19
• You can travel to the test site on foot or by motorcycle or bicycle and don’t need to use public transport
• You have access to a face covering
• You adhere to social distancing at all times, when travelling to and from the site

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Most people with COVID-19 will have at least one of these symptoms:

• A high temperature
• Or a new cough
• Or a change in sense of taste or smell

If you have any of these symptoms, you should book a test.

What do I need to bring to the test with me?

You must bring a valid form of ID, proof of your appointment confirmation email and a face covering.
If you do not have a valid form of ID or access to a mobile phone or have an email account, please discuss this when making your appointment.

Can I bring my family members with me?

Only those being tested should be at the test site. If you can’t leave your family at home, they may come with you but must wear a face covering however children under the age of 2 will not be permitted as it would be unsafe for them to wear a face covering.

What do I do while I’m waiting for my appointment or my test results?

While you are waiting for your appointment or your test result, you and everyone in your household must stay at home to prevent the spread of the infection.

When will I get my results?

Test results will not be held by the council. The testing site will send you your test results by email and text message within 24 – 72 hours of completing the test. If you don’t have an email address or a phone number, you can contact 119 for your results.
For more information about COVID-19, visit www.brent.gov.uk/coronavirus