It’s day 3267 of Coronavirus chaos. Or at least, it feels like it. After weeks of lockdown I’m so bored of my own company, I’ve attempted to befriend the family of snails who’ve set up camp on the patch of concrete behind my flat.
Outside London, lockdown living seems to include significantly more space and open countryside. Here in Ravenscourt Park, I’ve built my own luxury beach with a plant pot of weeds, a fairly impressive ant hill and a paddling pool crafted from a 10-year-old washing up bowl. Whoever said our fair capital lacks glamour appeal was deluded. While I’ve been finding ways to keep myself entertained (and improve my very questionable Britney-inspired dance moves), there’s only so far you can take your friendship with molluscs. They’re not much craic when it comes to debating the impact of Coronavirus on the global economy and their pub quiz skills are sorely lacking.
Boredom is a problem for almost everyone in the UK at the moment. But for some local residents, problems go far beyond loneliness or toddlers gate crashing conference calls. Many people in Hammersmith and Fulham are struggling with mental health problems, financial difficulties, family separation, illness, bereavement and job losses, among other issues.
That’s why a group of volunteers in the borough have come together to bring you this new community-centred online magazine. As well as survival tips for lockdown and social distancing, we’ll be sharing positive stories from the neighbourhood and bringing you advice on mental health, law, finance, fitness and education. Our little corner of London is home to hundreds of small businesses, many of whom are still alive and kicking in the fight against COVID-19. We’ll be letting you know what they’re up to over the coming weeks so that you can support them (and find out how they can support you).
Whether you need advice, inspiration or just a 10-minute escape from the 324th episode of Peppa Pig, we’re here to bring all members of the community together.
If you (or your business) has got a story to tell, get in touch on hello@hfcircles.co.uk. We're also building a list of different businesses from across Hammersmith & Fulham. If you'd like to add your company to our list free of charge then please give us a shout.