Olympic Inspiration

27 January 2012 marked the six month count down to the Olympic and Paralympic Games. For Newham residents, the Olympics are a fantastic opportunity to get involved in sport and cultural activity. But there are many more opportunities including the chance to volunteer locally or to find work.

Our Inspiring People programme offers residents the opportunity to share in the excitement of this great spectacle happening on our doorstep. Our local events will bring people together so you can get to know your neighbours and build a stronger, more resilient community.

Inspiring People has something for everyone. There are 6 different themes helping you to get involved in sport, be creative, achieve your potential, get involved at an event, volunteer in your community or get trained and into a job. You can find out more about how to get involved here.

The government has invested more than £9bn in the Games. We have said from the beginning that the investment will only be worthwhile if it means something to local residents. One way the government can help our residents is through helping increase the number of jobs locally. We've helped residents in their applications for Games time work and that's helped secure 1500 jobs offers. And we will keep pushing for more long term jobs beyond 2012.

We have also marked the handover of the Athletes Village to organisers. Residents will benefit when the Games are over - we're ensuring half of those homes will be affordable or social rented.

During the Olympics the world's eyes will be on Newham. We will show the world the best of Britain, but we also have to ensure that local people reap the benefits of the opportunities coming our way.

Let the Games inspire you, this is your chance to get involved and help build a more resilient community in Newham.