Newham youngsters hit the road for the London Mini-Marathon

We are so proud of the 30 children from Newham who took part in the London Mini-Marathon Championships, thanks to the support from our partner, GLL. 

The event is held a day before the full London Marathon and welcomes talented young runners from across the UK to race the final 2.6km of the iconic route. 

GLL, which manages our leisure centres under the Better brand, recruited and managed the teams of young people from our borough to take part. 

One parent described the experience as “incredibly positive”, noting that it has inspired her child to take part in more athletic events in the future.

There are plenty of activities available to young people at Newham’s leisure centres > 

Save money and cut waste with school uniform reuse scheme

Millions of school uniforms are thrown away each year, with families having to spend around £340–£440 per child on school clothing. 

Schools across London are coming together to reduce textile waste and make uniforms more affordable through reuse schemes like swap shops and pre-loved sales. Families can save up to 70% on uniform costs, while schools cut waste and reduce admin.

It’s free for schools to get involved, and support is available to help get started. Join the growing network today and be part of a simple change that makes a big difference.

Find out more about the School Uniform Reuse Network > 

Are you recycling everything you can? 

Here in Newham, we accept lots of items in our recycling collections, including food and drink cartons, and metal tubes used for purees (like tomato paste). We're making it even easier to reduce waste and do your bit for the environment. 

It really helps our waste teams if you can flatten cartons before placing them in your bin, as this helps create more space. Every item recycled helps keep streets cleaner, reduces waste going to disposal and supports a greener borough for everyone.

Check what you can recycle > 

Repair Cafés help residents save money and reduce waste

Over the past year, Newham residents have come together at community Repair Cafés to fix broken items, save money and reduce waste. 

Delivered by the Council’s Waste Prevention Team with the East London Waste Authority (ELWA) and local partners, these free events held across the borough in our libraries and community spaces, offer hands-on help with repairing electricals, clothing and bikes.

In 2025/26, the programme has repaired 285 items, welcomed 511 residents, prevented more than 542kg of waste and cut 4,728kg of CO₂ emissions.

Repair Cafés help cut waste and tackle climate change, while creating welcoming spaces where residents can learn new skills and connect with others.  

Repair Cafés and how to get involved  >

Discover Forest Gate’s hidden cycling heritage on a free family-friendly ride

Residents are invited to explore Forest Gate’s rich cycling history on a series of free, family-friendly heritage bike rides this May, suitable for ages 8+ and beginner riders.

Led by trained cycle marshals and Frames of Mind guides, these guided rides follow the FULL CYCLE Heritage QR Bike Trail along cycle-safe roads, bringing local stories, landmarks and cycling history to life. Along the route, children can take part in interactive activities, scan QR codes to uncover a mystery word and win a prize for completing the challenge. 

Please bring your own bike and refreshments. Booking is required as spaces are limited.

Sunday 17 May,11am – 12.30pm

Meeting Point: West Ham Park (Margery Gate) E7 9PU

Book now >

Saturday 23 May, 12pm – 1.30 pm

Meeting Point: Etty and Tyler, Upton Lane E7 9LW

Book now >