The government’s 2025 Autumn Statement offered a recognition of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and included some positive steps to address it. Yet these sit alongside choices that continue to erode the foundations of a robust social security system capable of responding to that crisis. One genuinely welcome step was the decision to scrap the harmful…
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Last week, the government announced the launch of a new independent investigation into “…why increasing numbers of young people are falling out of work or education before their careers have begun—with a particular focus on the impact of mental health conditions and disability.” The Terms of Reference (ToR) for this Independent Report into Young People and Work,…
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An independent review into the role of employers and government in tackling health-related economic inactivity and creating and maintaining healthy and inclusive workplaces, led by Sir Charlie Mayfield, acknowledges that ill-health and barriers to work contribute to economic inactivity. However, it engages only minimally with the social model of disability. The Review frames economic inactivity…
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October marks Black History Month, a time to reflect, remember and act. In Tower Hamlets and East London the story of Black activism is rich, layered and rooted in communities organising for justice, dignity and a place to call home. Early Presence, Hidden Histories Long before the modern era of migration and community organising, African…
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In this blog, Mehjabin and Nasrat reflect on their journey through a unique pilot project in Tower Hamlets, one that began with youth-led research into the emotional impact of the cost of living crisis, and grew into a series of collaborative workshops and community-building sessions. Blending lived experience, skill-sharing, and intergenerational dialogue, the project offered…
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Are you curious about the link between your mind and body? How emotional stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges manifest physically? If so, then you won’t want to miss this unique and insightful speaker session with renowned osteopath and expert Anisha Joshi, hosted at Toynbee Hall. As seen on ITV’s This Morning, Anisha Joshi is…
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“Buy Now, Pay Later has crept into the mainstream – and for many, it’s become a default way to shop. But while it’s pitched as flexible and interest-free, the reality for too many people is missed payments, mounting fees, and unaffordable debt.” The numbers speak for themselves: usage has tripled in just three years, with…
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At Toynbee Hall, we believe every child deserves a chance to play, explore, and grow but in Tower Hamlets, nearly half (48%) of children are growing up in poverty. For many families, both time and money are in short supply. That means fewer opportunities for extra-curricular activities, and limited access to safe, outdoor spaces for…
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A proud moment for Toynbee Hall as we welcomed Sarah Sackman KC MP, Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services, back to where her legal journey began, our Free Legal Advice Centre. This wasn’t a formal visit with handshakes and speeches. Sarah spent time with the people who make Toynbee Hall what it is:…
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Last night was a truly special moment for Toynbee Hall’s Debt Free Advice team. We were proud to be shortlisted for not one, but two prestigious national awards at the Credit Strategy Credit Awards 2025: Although we didn’t bring home a trophy this time, being recognised alongside leading organisations such as StepChange Debt Charity, IE…
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