BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, continued to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III with a ‘Big Help Out’ community event on Monday 8 May 2023. The Mandir previously marked the official Coronation on Saturday 6 May and also held a Big Lunch for the local community on Sunday 7 May.

‘The Big Help Out’ was the final day of coronation celebrations, focused on His Majesty’s wish that the nation gives back to the community. More than six million people across the country are expected to have volunteered in this event.

Neasden Temple worked with volunteers to offer free health screening on Monday 8 May. More than 180 local residents as well as members of the wider South Asian community benefitted from this service, during which the key health metrics of height, weight, blood pressure and glucose readings were examined in a culturally sensitive manner.

The assessments were supported with expert medical advice from professionals to help attendees make positive and practical changes to lead healthier lifestyles.

The Mandir also partnered with the NSPCC – one of the UK’s leading children’s charities – to encourage its volunteers as well as parents to engage in the NSPCC’s ‘Listen Up, Speak Up’ training, a short module that raises awareness about child abuse and neglect, as well as providing guidance about online safety for children.

This vital learning was introduced to the congregation of thousands during the evening assembly in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the inspirer of BAPS’s charitable and community service.

A spokesperson for the NSPCC said: “We are delighted to be working with Neasden Temple during the King’s Coronation as they take part in The Big Help Out. Volunteers play a crucial role at the NSPCC and help us keep children safe from harm across the country.

“We want to encourage everyone to play their part in keeping children safe. As members take part in our 10-minute digital training course, ‘Listen Up, Speak Up,’ we hope that they will feel equipped in knowing what to do if they think a child is in trouble and have confidence when speaking up for children across their community.”