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Public health

Our Healthier Catering Commitment Scheme

Bexley is introducing the Healthier Catering Commitment (HCC), a free scheme supporting local food businesses to make healthier food choices more accessible across the Borough.

The scheme encourages simple, practical changes such as reducing salt, sugar and saturated fat, offering healthier cooking methods and promoting lower sugar drinks and smaller portion sizes.

Businesses that meet the criteria will receive the official accreditation and recognition for promoting healthier lifestyles within the community.

At the heart of the scheme is one important message "Small changes can make a big difference."

Local food businesses interested in joining the scheme can reach out by emailing hcc@bexley.gov.uk.

Early Years Vaccinations

It’s important that vaccines are given on time to ensure the best possible protection. However, if you or your child have missed a vaccination, it’s not too late to catch up.

Speak to your GP surgery if:

  • you think you or your child have missed any vaccinations
  • you have a vaccination appointment but missed it or cannot attend

Your GP surgery can help you book a new appointment or rearrange an existing one. 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby under 12 months old. The safest place for a baby to sleep is lying on their back in their own clear, flat, firm separate sleep space (e.g. a cot or Moses basket) in the same room as you. Keep your baby smoke-free and avoid your baby getting too hot.

While SIDS is rare, following safer sleep guidance can significantly reduce the risk

More about SIDS

Support for gambling

Around 3 in 20 people in Bexley are thought to be at risk of gambling harms.

Harm from gambling is not just financial; it can lead to anxiety, depression and increased stress. Problem gambling doesn’t just affect you but impacts family and friends too.

Within Bexley free, confidential support is available for anyone who wants help to manage their gambling.

Gamblers Anonymous

Community group peer support with walk-in meetings at Hurst Community Centre, DA5 3LH.

Thursday evenings from 7.45pm to 9.30pm and Friday evenings from 8pm to 10pm.

Call on 0330 094 0322 or email bexleyga@outlook.com.

National Gambling Helpline

0808 8020 133 (Available 24/7 for free information, support, and counselling).

NHS National Gambling Clinic (London and South East) 

Call on 020 7381 7722 or email gambling.cnwl@nhs.net

GambleAware.org provide information and guidance for anyone worried about their own or someone else’s gambling.

Free confidential support

Solace logo

Domestic abuse can affect anyone, but you do not have to face it by yourself. In the London Borough of Bexley, dedicated support is available right when you need it.

The Council partners with Solace, a leading London charity specialising in helping survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence. They offer tailored, vital services including independent advocates, specialist support and dedicated children’s services.

The Bexley One Stop Shop

Need immediate advice? The Bexley One Stop Shop runs every Wednesday from 12.30pm to 3pm at the Central Library, Bexleyheath.

No appointment is needed. You can drop in to speak face-to-face with a network of professionals from various agencies, including:

  • Solace support workers
  • legal and housing advisors
  • DWP
  • Metropolitan Police
  • London Fire Brigade

Together, they will provide confidential advice and help you build a practical safety plan for your future.

Get Support Today

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. You will be listened to, believed and supported.