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Simon Keen

@simonldn.bsky.social

Formerly West Country, now Londoner, working in communities and social policy comms for City Hall. Second attempt at BlueSky for a nicer place to discuss work, happenings in #London, and anything else really. All views my own. Reposts not an endorsement.

98 Followers  |  242 Following  |  16 Posts  |  Joined: 11.10.2024  |  1.7093

Latest posts by simonldn.bsky.social on Bluesky

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UK to consult on social media ban for under 16s The government said it expected schools to be

More needs to be done to keep children safe online.

I welcome the announcement from the government of this consultation to tackle the threat of social media & deliver a safer online world for children.

20.01.2026 10:08 β€” πŸ‘ 66    πŸ” 10    πŸ’¬ 9    πŸ“Œ 0
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The London I know & love is built on the strength of many communities who call it home, working together & celebrating our shared values.

Londoners' reception to our #LovedandWanted campaign has been wonderful.

We know this is a much-needed message.

Join us in sharing it❀️

30.09.2025 15:41 β€” πŸ‘ 12    πŸ” 5    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0

Last week we published this powerful message which is beautifully crafted and loud and clear about #London's values.

It comes alongside nearly Β£1m worth of funding to back the amazing work of civil society organisation supporting and bringing together Londoners from all walks of life.

25.09.2025 15:55 β€” πŸ‘ 2    πŸ” 0    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Mayor hails one-day Oxford Street car-ban as start of rescue plan London's Oxford Street held a one-day car ban to showcase pedestrianisation plans. The event featured retail activations and live music. Mayor Khan aims to...

Over the weekend, Oxford Street went traffic-free and Londoners saw its true potential.

With music, food, culture and celebrations, it showed how this iconic street can thrive as a welcoming, world-class destination for all.

23.09.2025 15:00 β€” πŸ‘ 252    πŸ” 38    πŸ’¬ 12    πŸ“Œ 4
I know many people, particularly from London's diverse communities, are feeling extremely worried following the events this weekend. 

It takes me back to how I felt growing up in the ’70s and ’80s, when 
far-right political parties marched on our streets.

The leaders of the far-right are once again attempting to hijack our flag, with minorities being intimidated and fear, hatred and division being sown.

As Londoners, and as proud Brits, we must unite to reject the far-right 
– just as we have many times before.  

But it’s going to take a huge effort from us all – from people of all races and backgrounds, who are willing to stand up for our British values of equality, inclusion and mutual respect.    

As Mayor, I'll continue to do everything I can to challenge the far-right and all those who peddle the politics of fear and division.

I urge other politicians and Londoners to do the same.

MAYOR OF LONDON, SADIQ KHAN

I know many people, particularly from London's diverse communities, are feeling extremely worried following the events this weekend. It takes me back to how I felt growing up in the ’70s and ’80s, when far-right political parties marched on our streets. The leaders of the far-right are once again attempting to hijack our flag, with minorities being intimidated and fear, hatred and division being sown. As Londoners, and as proud Brits, we must unite to reject the far-right – just as we have many times before. But it’s going to take a huge effort from us all – from people of all races and backgrounds, who are willing to stand up for our British values of equality, inclusion and mutual respect. As Mayor, I'll continue to do everything I can to challenge the far-right and all those who peddle the politics of fear and division. I urge other politicians and Londoners to do the same. MAYOR OF LONDON, SADIQ KHAN

We must unite against those who seek to divide us.

15.09.2025 19:16 β€” πŸ‘ 2616    πŸ” 631    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 50
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β€˜These People Can’t Stand What London Represents… It Makes a Mockery of their Entire Worldview’ Sadiq Khan, the Labour Mayor of London, addresses the increasing number of claims by those in the media and politics of the capital city’s apparent decline

London’s story is one of resilience, success and optimism - not decline as fearmongers portray.

From cleaner air to better transport, vibrant culture to lower crime - here's some key facts ⬇️

bylinetimes.com/2025/08/13/t...

13.08.2025 14:39 β€” πŸ‘ 46    πŸ” 13    πŸ’¬ 2    πŸ“Œ 0
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Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in good work Research on barriers for Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in accessing and progressing in good work.

Proud to share new @london.gov.uk backed research championing Bangladeshi & Pakistani women in London's labour market. It highlights the huge barriers, high unemployment & pay gaps they face-calling for wide scale action on fair pay & discrimination
www.london.gov.uk/bangladeshi-...

11.08.2025 18:49 β€” πŸ‘ 2    πŸ” 3    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Pitzhanger Manor hosts celebration of food, identity and community - EALING.NEWS - The Voice of Ealing's 7 towns - Acton, Ealing, Greenford, Hanwell, Northolt, Perivale, Southall. A burst of colour, music and conversation filled Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery on Thursday evening (7 August 2025) as London’s Deputy Mayor for communities and social Justice, Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard an...

πŸ—ž Write up from Ealing News here: ealing.news/arts-culture...

11.08.2025 09:45 β€” πŸ‘ 0    πŸ” 0    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Lovely trip to Ealing Pitzhanger Manor last week for #SouthAsianHeritageMonth with Deputy Mayor @debbieweekesb.bsky.social.

Quick tour of the beautiful house followed by hunger-inducing conversation about food and identity for the Migration Menu Podcast. Episode to come in the Autumn...

11.08.2025 09:43 β€” πŸ‘ 1    πŸ” 0    πŸ’¬ 1    πŸ“Œ 0
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UK weather: Yellow heat health alert issued - with temperatures set to hit 30C and a fourth summer heatwave forecast The UKHSA said the alert means significant impacts are possible across health and social care services due to the high temperatures.

🟑Temperatures are predicted to approach 30°C this week, and a yellow heat health alert has been issued for London.

I’m working closely with partners to ensure vulnerable people are protected from the heat, including councils providing emergency support to rough sleepers. bit.ly/3JbZqhQ

11.08.2025 08:45 β€” πŸ‘ 84    πŸ” 15    πŸ’¬ 4    πŸ“Œ 1
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Cool Spaces Cool Spaces Map displays indoor venues open to all where Londoners can take respite on hot days.

If you’re out and about in London, there are 4,000 water refill points and more than 100 water fountains across the city, plus cool spaces where you can take respite from the heat.

Find both on our Cool Spaces map: apps.london.gov.uk/cool-spaces/

30.06.2025 08:27 β€” πŸ‘ 32    πŸ” 12    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 2

The news from India is deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the family & friends of those on board the Air India flightβ€”I can only imagine how devastating this must be.

I’m in close contact with the Government & Indian High Commission. More information from Air India:

12.06.2025 10:25 β€” πŸ‘ 347    πŸ” 37    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 3
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Home Register to be a blood donor, give blood and save lives. Find out more about blood donation.

πŸ“’ #NationalBloodWeek starts today – and there is a critical need for blood right now.

🩸@GiveBloodNHS particularly need blood from donors of Black heritage to treat sickle cell disease.

πŸ™Each donation can save up to 3 lives.

πŸ—“οΈBook an appointment: www.blood.co.uk

09.06.2025 10:55 β€” πŸ‘ 1    πŸ” 1    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0

Londonersβ€”your voice matters.

The State of London Debate is happening on 12 June. It’s your chance to ask questions and help shape the future of our city.

Join the conversation. Register now: www.london.gov.uk/events/state...

05.06.2025 08:11 β€” πŸ‘ 22    πŸ” 8    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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UK-EU youth mobility scheme is essential to reverse Brexit damage and rocket launch the economy, writes Sir Sadiq Khan A new UK-EU youth mobility scheme is vital to building a more dynamic, successful and prosperous London for everyone.

A UK-EU youth mobility scheme would make it easier for the Government to fulfil its growth ambitions.

I wrote for LBC on why I’ve long urged the Prime Minister and British negotiators to pull out all the stops to get it over the line.

16.05.2025 14:40 β€” πŸ‘ 119    πŸ” 26    πŸ’¬ 6    πŸ“Œ 2

For #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek take #ZeroSuicideLDN free, online suicide prevention training.

It will teach you how to spot the signs of suicide and have a life-saving conversation with those in your community.

No one should feel alone when they’re struggling πŸ‘‡πŸ“£

thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn

12.05.2025 07:56 β€” πŸ‘ 2    πŸ” 1    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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English, Muslim, European – and Proud of Every Part of My Identity, writes Sir Sadiq Khan Last Wednesday, many of us flew the English flag with pride as we marked St George’s Day.

Modern England is a tapestry of various cultures, faiths, histories and influencesβ€”bound together by the values of democracy, decency, fairness and respect.

We cannot be complacent amid a concerted effort to normalise views that were once rightly consigned to the fringes.

01.05.2025 07:06 β€” πŸ‘ 261    πŸ” 42    πŸ’¬ 6    πŸ“Œ 2
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NEW: City Hall hosts London’s first ever International VAWG Summit.

Violence against women and girls is a global epidemic. Together we’re sharing solutions to make our streets safer and committing to working together to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence.

29.04.2025 15:14 β€” πŸ‘ 46    πŸ” 7    πŸ’¬ 1    πŸ“Œ 0
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London's al fresco and late-night dreams could soon be a reality β€” and this is how Let’s set the scene: it’s a balmy Friday evening, night falls and the streets are buzzing with the hum of conversation and outdoor dining, music spills out from the bars.

β€œIt’s time to call last orders on red tape and get behind our nightlife.”

My colleague @justinesimons.bsky.social writes about how the government’s plan to give the Mayor strategic licensing powers will help boost London’s bars, pubs and music venues. www.standard.co.uk/comment/soho...

12.04.2025 17:37 β€” πŸ‘ 6    πŸ” 3    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 1
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Proud to partner with the brilliant @workrights.bsky.social to tackle exploitation of migrant workers. Everyone deserves fair treatment at work, no matter their background.
Β 
The Mayor's (@london.gov.uk) Employment Rights Hub helps all Londoners know their rights
Β 
www.london.gov.uk/programmes-s...

09.04.2025 15:52 β€” πŸ‘ 1    πŸ” 2    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Mayor's Community Weekend funding programme 2025 The National Lottery Community Fund and the Mayor of London are delighted to announce the return of the Mayor’s Community Weekend to London in September 2025.

The Mayor of London’s Community Weekend is back!

Applications are now open for funding to deliver community-based events & activities across the city at this year’s Mayor's Community Weekend.

More information and how to apply πŸ‘‡
shorturl.at/1j0jS

@london.gov.uk @tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

09.04.2025 13:59 β€” πŸ‘ 1    πŸ” 2    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Help with the cost of living Find out what support is available to help you manage the cost of living in London.

I understand the significant strain that rising household bills place on Londoners.

If you’re struggling, free, expert advice is available through the services we fundβ€”London Citizens Advice and the London Legal Support Trustβ€”to help you access the support you’re entitled to.

01.04.2025 15:02 β€” πŸ‘ 44    πŸ” 20    πŸ’¬ 2    πŸ“Œ 0
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Equity, diversity and inclusion make London a better place to live and work At City Hall, we’re proud to have equality, diversity and inclusion at the core of all our work.

Equity, diversity and inclusion has now become weaponised, with misconceptions fuelling hostility towards these efforts. In my article for @lbc.co.uk, I outline why City Hall is proud to champion our richly diverse city and communities.

www.lbc.co.uk/opinion/view...

31.03.2025 17:12 β€” πŸ‘ 51    πŸ” 11    πŸ’¬ 1    πŸ“Œ 0
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High pollution alert issued for London Londoners are asked to switch off vehicle engines when idling and to refrain from burning garden waste.

City Hall has issued a high pollution alert for London due to air pollution from mainland Europe.

I urge Londoners to look after themselves and protect those with conditions such as asthma. This includes refraining from engine idling and burning wood or garden waste.

20.03.2025 13:46 β€” πŸ‘ 85    πŸ” 35    πŸ’¬ 7    πŸ“Œ 4
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Keeping Faith Together with Dr. Debbie-Weekes Bernard (London's Deputy Mayor for Social Justice and Communities) - Keeping Faith: A How To Guide Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of gender-based violence, including femicide. Please listen with care.  How did the pandemic shine new light on the role of faith and interfaith...

Great conversation on Keeping Faith: A How-To Guide for #IWD2025.

We discussed the incredible work women of faith are doing to support communities, the rise in misogyny, and the Mayor's Β£230m investment in initiatives to tackle violence against women & girls.

🎧 tinyurl.com/y47m4tcz @london.gov.uk

12.03.2025 16:19 β€” πŸ‘ 1    πŸ” 1    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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Dramatic fall in London’s levels of deadly pollutants after Ulez expansion People in capital breathing much cleaner air, with significant improvements in capital’s most deprived areas

Expanding ULEZ: it wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for Londoners’ health.

The latest figures back that up:

10.03.2025 12:15 β€” πŸ‘ 246    πŸ” 27    πŸ’¬ 5    πŸ“Œ 1

After a year of the #ULEZ expansion every Londoner is breathing cleaner air. πŸ™Œ

I’m pleased that some of London’s most deprived communities are seeing huge benefits with an 80% reduction in people who live near London’s busiest roads exposed to illegal levels of pollution.

07.03.2025 13:33 β€” πŸ‘ 4    πŸ” 4    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
A graphic with a blue sky background and white clouds. The text reads: "Harmful NO2 levels are estimated to be lower in 2024 compared to a scenario without ULEZ". The reductions are listed as follows: Central London – 54% lower, Inner London – 29% lower, Outer London – 24% lower. A source link at the bottom reads: london.gov.uk/ulez.

A graphic with a blue sky background and white clouds. The text reads: "Harmful NO2 levels are estimated to be lower in 2024 compared to a scenario without ULEZ". The reductions are listed as follows: Central London – 54% lower, Inner London – 29% lower, Outer London – 24% lower. A source link at the bottom reads: london.gov.uk/ulez.

ULEZ works. It’s that simple.

Expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone wasn’t a decision I took lightly, but the latest figures show that it was the right one for the health of millions of Londoners.

07.03.2025 07:34 β€” πŸ‘ 1883    πŸ” 435    πŸ’¬ 63    πŸ“Œ 60

πŸ’¬ All Londoners I speak to have an opinion on Oxford Street. This is your chance to have your say on making it fit for the future.

#London #OxfordStreet

03.03.2025 13:57 β€” πŸ‘ 4    πŸ” 0    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0
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SL11 - Proposed express bus service between North Greenwich and Abbey Wood We would like your feedback on proposals to renumber bus route 472 as route SL11. We would then operate the SL11 as a limited-stop express service, between North Greenwich and Abbey Wood via Woolwich ...

I’m pleased to announce that TfL is inviting Londoners to share their thoughts on the next proposed Superloop express bus route between Abbey Wood and North Greenwich.

The plans for this express service will connect even more places in outer London. Have your say ⬇️

03.03.2025 12:00 β€” πŸ‘ 39    πŸ” 11    πŸ’¬ 0    πŸ“Œ 0

@simonldn is following 19 prominent accounts