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.
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.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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❤️
Londoners' reception to our #LovedandWanted campaign has been wonderful.
We know this is a much-needed message.
Join us in sharing it❤️
September 30, 2025 at 3:41 PM
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❤️
Londoners' reception to our #LovedandWanted campaign has been wonderful.
We know this is a much-needed message.
Join us in sharing it❤️
Last week we published this powerful message which is beautifully crafted and loud and clear about #London's values.
It comes alongside nearly £1m worth of funding to back the amazing work of civil society organisation supporting and bringing together Londoners from all walks of life.
It comes alongside nearly £1m worth of funding to back the amazing work of civil society organisation supporting and bringing together Londoners from all walks of life.
London is, and always will be, a place for everyone.
A city where people of all backgrounds live side-by-side, and where our differences are not just tolerated, but celebrated.
A city where people of all backgrounds live side-by-side, and where our differences are not just tolerated, but celebrated.
September 25, 2025 at 3:55 PM
Last week we published this powerful message which is beautifully crafted and loud and clear about #London's values.
It comes alongside nearly £1m worth of funding to back the amazing work of civil society organisation supporting and bringing together Londoners from all walks of life.
It comes alongside nearly £1m worth of funding to back the amazing work of civil society organisation supporting and bringing together Londoners from all walks of life.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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.
With music, food, culture and celebrations, it showed how this iconic street can thrive as a welcoming, world-class destination for all.
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...
fashionunited.uk
September 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM
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.
With music, food, culture and celebrations, it showed how this iconic street can thrive as a welcoming, world-class destination for all.
Reposted by Simon Keen
We must unite against those who seek to divide us.
September 15, 2025 at 7:16 PM
We must unite against those who seek to divide us.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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...
From cleaner air to better transport, vibrant culture to lower crime - here's some key facts ⬇️
bylinetimes.com/2025/08/13/t...
‘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
bylinetimes.com
August 13, 2025 at 2:39 PM
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...
From cleaner air to better transport, vibrant culture to lower crime - here's some key facts ⬇️
bylinetimes.com/2025/08/13/t...
Reposted by Simon Keen
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-...
www.london.gov.uk/bangladeshi-...
Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in good work
Research on barriers for Bangladeshi and Pakistani women in accessing and progressing in good work.
www.london.gov.uk
August 11, 2025 at 6:49 PM
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-...
www.london.gov.uk/bangladeshi-...
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...
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...
August 11, 2025 at 9:43 AM
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...
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...
Reposted by Simon Keen
🟡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
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
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.
news.sky.com
August 11, 2025 at 8:45 AM
🟡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
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
Reposted by Simon Keen
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/
Find both on our Cool Spaces map: apps.london.gov.uk/cool-spaces/
Cool Spaces
Cool Spaces Map displays indoor venues open to all where Londoners can take respite on hot days.
apps.london.gov.uk
June 30, 2025 at 8:27 AM
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/
Find both on our Cool Spaces map: apps.london.gov.uk/cool-spaces/
Reposted by Simon Keen
The news from India is deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the family & friends of those on board the Air India flight—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:
I’m in close contact with the Government & Indian High Commission. More information from Air India:
www.airindia.com
June 12, 2025 at 10:25 AM
The news from India is deeply distressing. My thoughts are with the family & friends of those on board the Air India flight—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:
I’m in close contact with the Government & Indian High Commission. More information from Air India:
Reposted by Simon Keen
📢 #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.
🙏Each donation can save up to 3 lives.
🗓️Book an appointment: www.blood.co.uk
🩸@GiveBloodNHS particularly need blood from donors of Black heritage to treat sickle cell disease.
🙏Each donation can save up to 3 lives.
🗓️Book an appointment: www.blood.co.uk
Home
Register to be a blood donor, give blood and save lives. Find out more about blood donation.
www.blood.co.uk
June 9, 2025 at 10:55 AM
📢 #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.
🙏Each donation can save up to 3 lives.
🗓️Book an appointment: www.blood.co.uk
🩸@GiveBloodNHS particularly need blood from donors of Black heritage to treat sickle cell disease.
🙏Each donation can save up to 3 lives.
🗓️Book an appointment: www.blood.co.uk
Reposted by Simon Keen
Londoners—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...
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...
June 5, 2025 at 8:11 AM
Londoners—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...
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...
Reposted by Simon Keen
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.
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.
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.
www.lbc.co.uk
May 16, 2025 at 2:40 PM
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.
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.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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 👇📣
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
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 👇📣
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek is about the importance of community.
Today I’m asking Londoners to join me and 450,000 others who have taken Zero Suicide Alliance’s free online suicide prevention training—so we can all look out for our communities.
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
Today I’m asking Londoners to join me and 450,000 others who have taken Zero Suicide Alliance’s free online suicide prevention training—so we can all look out for our communities.
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
May 12, 2025 at 7:56 AM
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 👇📣
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
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 👇📣
thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn
Reposted by Simon Keen
Modern England is a tapestry of various cultures, faiths, histories and influences—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.
We cannot be complacent amid a concerted effort to normalise views that were once rightly consigned to the fringes.
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.
www.lbc.co.uk
May 1, 2025 at 7:06 AM
Modern England is a tapestry of various cultures, faiths, histories and influences—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.
We cannot be complacent amid a concerted effort to normalise views that were once rightly consigned to the fringes.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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.
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.
April 29, 2025 at 3:14 PM
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.
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.
Reposted by Simon Keen
“It’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...
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...
London's al fresco and late-night dreams could soon be a reality — 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.
www.standard.co.uk
April 12, 2025 at 5:37 PM
“It’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...
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...
Reposted by Simon Keen
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.
The Mayor's (@london.gov.uk) Employment Rights Hub helps all Londoners know their rights
www.london.gov.uk/programmes-s...
The Mayor's (@london.gov.uk) Employment Rights Hub helps all Londoners know their rights
www.london.gov.uk/programmes-s...
April 9, 2025 at 3:53 PM
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.
The Mayor's (@london.gov.uk) Employment Rights Hub helps all Londoners know their rights
www.london.gov.uk/programmes-s...
The Mayor's (@london.gov.uk) Employment Rights Hub helps all Londoners know their rights
www.london.gov.uk/programmes-s...
Reposted by Simon Keen
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 👇
shorturl.at/1j0jS
@london.gov.uk @tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
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 👇
shorturl.at/1j0jS
@london.gov.uk @tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
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.
shorturl.at
April 9, 2025 at 1:59 PM
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 👇
shorturl.at/1j0jS
@london.gov.uk @tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
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 👇
shorturl.at/1j0jS
@london.gov.uk @tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
Reposted by Simon Keen
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 fund—London Citizens Advice and the London Legal Support Trust—to help you access the support you’re entitled to.
If you’re struggling, free, expert advice is available through the services we fund—London Citizens Advice and the London Legal Support Trust—to help you access the support you’re entitled to.
Help with the cost of living
Find out what support is available to help you manage the cost of living in London.
www.london.gov.uk
April 1, 2025 at 3:02 PM
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 fund—London Citizens Advice and the London Legal Support Trust—to help you access the support you’re entitled to.
If you’re struggling, free, expert advice is available through the services we fund—London Citizens Advice and the London Legal Support Trust—to help you access the support you’re entitled to.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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...
www.lbc.co.uk/opinion/view...
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.
www.lbc.co.uk
March 31, 2025 at 5:12 PM
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...
www.lbc.co.uk/opinion/view...
Reposted by Simon Keen
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.
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.
High pollution alert issued for London
Londoners are asked to switch off vehicle engines when idling and to refrain from burning garden waste.
www.bbc.co.uk
March 20, 2025 at 1:46 PM
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.
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.
Reposted by Simon Keen
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 £230m investment in initiatives to tackle violence against women & girls.
🎧 tinyurl.com/y47m4tcz @london.gov.uk
We discussed the incredible work women of faith are doing to support communities, the rise in misogyny, and the Mayor's £230m investment in initiatives to tackle violence against women & girls.
🎧 tinyurl.com/y47m4tcz @london.gov.uk
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...
tinyurl.com
March 12, 2025 at 4:19 PM
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 £230m investment in initiatives to tackle violence against women & girls.
🎧 tinyurl.com/y47m4tcz @london.gov.uk
We discussed the incredible work women of faith are doing to support communities, the rise in misogyny, and the Mayor's £230m investment in initiatives to tackle violence against women & girls.
🎧 tinyurl.com/y47m4tcz @london.gov.uk
Reposted by Simon Keen
Expanding ULEZ: it wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for Londoners’ health.
The latest figures back that up:
The latest figures back that up:
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
www.theguardian.com
March 10, 2025 at 12:15 PM
Expanding ULEZ: it wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one for Londoners’ health.
The latest figures back that up:
The latest figures back that up:
Reposted by Simon Keen
After a year of the #ULEZ expansion every Londoner is breathing cleaner air. 🙌
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.
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.
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.
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.
March 7, 2025 at 1:33 PM
After a year of the #ULEZ expansion every Londoner is breathing cleaner air. 🙌
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.
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.