This week in Barking and Dagenham:

Sex Establishment Policy Review Sparks Debate on Locality and Future Licensing

The Licensing and Regulatory Committee met to discuss proposed changes to the council's Sex Establishment Licensing Policy, leading to a detailed discussion about the policy's scope and future implications. While the changes were ultimately approved, concerns were raised about defining relevant locality and the potential impact on future license applications.

• The Stakes: The Sex Establishment Licensing Policy regulates sex shops, sex cinemas, and sex entertainment venues, aiming to balance business interests with community safety and well-being.
• Vulnerable Groups: The policy seeks to protect vulnerable adults and children by restricting the location of sex establishments near schools, places of worship, and other sensitive facilities.

Read the full details of the meeting.

Minimal Changes, Maximum Debate

The proposed changes to the Sex Establishment Licensing Policy were described as minimal, primarily involving updates to the council logo, page references, and alignment with the current corporate plan. However, the discussion revealed underlying tensions about the policy's interpretation and enforcement.

• Key Changes: The key changes included updating the council logo and dates, clarifying that brothels are not included in the definition of sex establishments, and changing the word nil to zero in relation to the appropriate number of licensed sex establishments.
• Public Consultation: Only two responses were received during the public consultation, prompting questions about whether a longer consultation period would have yielded greater engagement.
• Relevant Locality Debate: A key point of contention was the definition of relevant locality and in the vicinity of sensitive premises, with some councillors expressing concern that vague terms could be manipulated by future applicants.
  • Councillor Julia Williams stated she asked that because I just wasn't clear if that, um, if a new licensee came along and could perhaps manipulate that to their own advantage.
  • Officers responded that maintaining some level of flexibility was important, as a bold distance doesn't necessarily represent a locality.

Existing Establishment Safe for Now

Concerns were raised about the potential impact of the revised policy on the borough's single licensed sex shop, which has been operating for decades.

• Policy Not Retrospective: Officers clarified that the policy is not retrospective and would not affect the existing establishment's license, as long as the current operator continues to operate it.
• Future Variations: Any changes to the licensee or business model could trigger a review, but the committee could only hold a view on any variation to the current license, not revoke it entirely.

Financial Implications and Brothels

The committee also discussed the financial implications of the policy and the exclusion of brothels from its scope.

• Zero Financial Impact: Officers stated that the financial implications of the policy are zero, as the revenue generated from sex establishments is negligible.
• Brothels Illegal: Brothels are illegal in the UK and therefore not covered by the Sex Establishment Licensing Policy, which regulates sex shops, sex cinemas, and sex entertainment venues.

Assembly Focuses on Waste Management, Safeguarding, and Youth Justice

The Assembly convened to discuss a range of critical issues, including the East London Joint Waste Plan, safeguarding adults, and youth justice. The meeting highlighted the council's commitment to sustainable waste management, protecting vulnerable adults, and supporting young people involved in the criminal justice system.

• The Stakes: The decisions made by the Assembly directly impact the quality of life for residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
• Vulnerable Groups: The Local Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report and the Annual Youth Justice Plan are particularly relevant to vulnerable residents.

Read the full details of the meeting.

East London Joint Waste Plan Aims for Sustainability

The Assembly discussed the East London Joint Waste Plan (ELJWP), a collaborative effort between Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Newham, and Redbridge to manage waste sustainably.

• Waste Capacity: The plan aims to ensure sufficient waste capacity across the four boroughs.
• Surplus Capacity: Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, noted that there is a surplus of waste capacity within the area, allowing some sites to be released.

Safeguarding Adults: High Rates and Community Voice

The Assembly considered the Local Safeguarding Adults' Board (LSAB) Annual Report 2024/25, which revealed that 80% of safeguarding concerns occurred in an individual's home, far different from the national statistics, which is only about 46%.

• High Reporting Rates: Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, stated that the board is looking at whether the high rates are due to a cultural thing, with people reporting things more often and earlier.
• Community Voice: A key priority for the partnership is making sure that they hear the voice of the community and understand what safeguarding means to individuals in the borough.
• Under-Representation: The report also highlighted the under-representation of certain communities in safeguarding inquiries, with 80% of inquiries involving white people.

Youth Justice: Supporting Young People and Reducing Re-offending

The Assembly discussed the Annual Youth Justice Plan 2025/26, which outlines the strategy for preventing youth crime and re-offending in Barking and Dagenham.

• Challenging Context: Councillor Jane Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care & Disabilities, emphasized the challenging context in which the Youth Justice Service operates, including high levels of poverty, deprivation, and domestic abuse.
• First-Time Entrants: High numbers of first-time entrants to the youth justice system remain a concern.
• Multi-Agency Approach: The Youth Justice Service works in partnership with various agencies, including the police, probation services, and local schools.

Financial Stability and Investment Debated

Councillor Moin Quadri raised concerns about the council's debt levels and the performance of its investment and acquisition strategies.

• Debt vs. Investment: Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, defended the council's investment strategy, stating that it has delivered over 3,000 new quality homes and generated income for the council.
• Financial Returns: While acknowledging that financial returns from the investment and acquisition strategy were less than forecast, Councillor Twomey emphasized that they were still bringing in a return.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Community Safety Partnership are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 03 December 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee are scheduled to meet on Monday 01 December 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 25 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Audit and Risk Committee are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 26 November 2025. See the meeting details.

This week in Barking and Dagenham:

Queen Mary University Expansion Secures Funding Amidst Dental Care Crisis

The Cabinet met this week, approving a significant investment in healthcare and education through a partnership with Queen Mary University London (QMUL). The decision comes as the borough grapples with a severe shortage of dental services, particularly affecting young people.

• The Stakes: The collaboration aims to address critical healthcare needs and boost educational opportunities, potentially transforming the borough into a hub for health research and innovation.
• Vulnerable Groups: The initiative prioritizes dental care for young people, who face disproportionately limited access to NHS dentists.

Read the full details of the meeting.

£4.1 Million Investment for QMUL Dental Facility

The Cabinet approved the allocation of £4.1 million from the Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (SCIL) to support the establishment of a QMUL dental facility at Maritime House, Barking. This investment will enable QMUL to provide dental care to approximately 5,200 residents annually.

• Dental Care Crisis: Councillor Maureen Worby, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Housing, emphasized the severity of the dental care shortage in the borough, noting that 65% of 3-to-5-year-olds and 80% of 18-to-34-year-olds lack access to a dentist.
• Prioritizing Young People: QMUL has agreed to prioritize appointments for young people, addressing a critical need for early dental care.
• Health Inequalities: Councillor Worby highlighted the link between oral health and general health, particularly the increased risk of diabetes associated with poor dental care.
• Strategic Partnership: Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, hailed the partnership with QMUL as a fantastic opportunity to open up East London and establish Barking and Dagenham as a hub for health research.

Maritime House to Undergo Major Repairs

In addition to the SCIL funding, the Cabinet approved major repairs to Maritime House to accommodate the QMUL dental facility. This includes upgrades to windows, cladding, and other essential infrastructure.

• Long-Term Vision: Councillor Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Economic Development, acknowledged that previous plans to redevelop Maritime House were not viable in the near future, but the partnership with QMUL presented a substantial improvement in community health.
• Economic Benefits: The QMUL facility is expected to attract 130 students to the borough, boosting the local economy and creating new opportunities.

Education Performance Review Highlights Progress Amidst Challenges

The Cabinet also received the Annual Education Performance Review 2024/25, showcasing improvements in educational attainment despite significant challenges, including high levels of child poverty and deprivation.

• Above National Average: 98% of schools in Barking and Dagenham are rated good or outstanding, exceeding London and national averages.
• Narrowing the Gap: The borough is narrowing the gap with London averages in several key performance indicators, despite having the highest levels of child poverty and debt deprivation in England and Wales.
• Inclusive Schools: Councillor Jane Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care & Disabilities, emphasized the borough's commitment to inclusive schools, acknowledging that this can impact league table rankings.
• Poverty and Overcrowding: Councillor Twomey highlighted the challenges faced by students living in poverty and overcrowded housing, praising the phenomenal work of teachers and officers in achieving educational progress despite these obstacles.

Becontree Estate Design Code Consultation Approved

The Cabinet approved a public consultation on the draft Becontree Estate Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and Design Code, aiming to preserve the character of the historic estate while supporting residents.

• Heritage Preservation: Councillor Geddes emphasized the importance of preserving the heritage of the Becontree Estate, the borough's most famous housing estate.
• Resident Support: The SPD aims to support residents by outlining what they can do, rather than restricting development.
• Article 4 Directions: The council is proposing Article 4 directions to revoke permitted development rights for porches and side/roof alterations on corner blocks, in order to maintain the estate's character.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet approved a new service delivery contract with Barking and Dagenham Trading Partnership Limited (BDTP), a council-owned subsidiary providing repairs, maintenance, cleaning, and catering services. Councillor Worby emphasized the need for transparent KPIs and accountability to ensure improved service delivery for residents.
• The Cabinet adopted the Annual Youth Justice Plan 2025/26, outlining the council's strategy for preventing youth crime and supporting young offenders. Councillor Jones highlighted the importance of a child first, offender second approach.
• The Cabinet approved secondary power and sprinkler upgrades at 12 Thames Road, Barking, and fire safety system upgrades at Barking Industria, aiming to improve safety and maximize income from these properties.
• The Cabinet reviewed the Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2025/26 Mid-Year Review, noting the council's borrowing and investment positions amidst a challenging economic climate.

Planning Committee Approves Beam Park Phase B

The Planning Committee approved a reserved matters application for Phase B of the Beam Park development, paving the way for 405 new homes, including 51% affordable housing. The development will also include associated amenities, landscaping, and car parking. Read the full details of the meeting.

Licensing Sub-Committee Addresses Costcutter Applications

The Licensing Sub-Committee met to consider a transfer application and a new premises licence application for Costcutter, located at 14-20 Farr Avenue, Barking. The sub-committee approved the transfer application, removing Ismail Garup as a premises licence holder, but refused the new premises licence application. Read the full details of the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Licensing and Regulatory Committee are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 18 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Assembly are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 25 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Audit and Risk Committee are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 26 November 2025. See the meeting details.

This week in Barking and Dagenham:

Education, Health and Care Plan Process Faces Scrutiny Amidst Rising Demand

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to continue its review of the Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) process, a critical service for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN). The committee heard that the council is struggling to meet statutory timescales amid a surge in demand, raising concerns about the impact on vulnerable families.

• The Stakes: EHCPs are legally binding documents that outline the specific support a child with SEN requires to thrive in education. Delays and inefficiencies in the process can have a detrimental impact on their development and well-being.
• Vulnerable Groups: Children with SEN and their families rely on timely and effective EHCPs to access the resources and support they need. Delays can exacerbate existing inequalities and hinder their progress.

Read the full details of the meeting.

Demand Doubles, Timeliness Suffers

The committee heard that the number of requests for EHCP assessments has doubled between 2021 and 2025, with a significant increase in requests coming directly from parents. This surge in demand has put immense pressure on the council's SEND services, leading to delays in issuing plans within the statutory 20-week timeframe.

• Parental Requests on the Rise: The proportion of EHCP requests coming from parents has increased from under 10% in 2021 to around 25% in 2025, indicating a growing awareness of the process and a potential lack of confidence in schools to adequately address their children's needs.
• Performance Below National Average: The council's performance in issuing EHCPs within 20 weeks is below the national average, with only 24.9% of plans issued on time as of the end of October.
• Staffing Shortages: The council is facing challenges in recruiting and retaining EHCP coordinators, with almost four full-time equivalent vacancies in the team. This is due to the demanding nature of the work and competition from neighboring authorities offering better caseloads and support.

Challenges and Pressures

The committee heard about the various challenges and pressures impacting the EHCP process, including:

• Complexity of Needs: The increasing complexity of needs among children and young people requiring EHCPs.
• Inclusion in Schools: The strain on school budgets, with schools having to fund the first £6,000 of support for each child with SEN.
• In-migration: A high number of children and young people moving into the borough with existing EHCPs, requiring specialist provision.
• Capacity of Other Services: Pressures on other services, such as paediatricians and educational psychologists, to provide timely assessments and advice.

Improvement Plan: Aims to Strengthen Workforce and Communication

The council is implementing a SEND Development and Resilience improvement plan to address the challenges and improve the EHCP process. The plan focuses on:

• Strengthening the Workforce: Creating new posts, such as an EHC Quality and High Needs Tracking Lead, and recruiting to vacant positions.
• Improving Information and Communication: Enhancing communication with families and schools, and improving the accessibility of information about the EHCP process.
• Expanding Statutory Service Capacity: Seeking additional resources to increase the capacity of the EHCP team.
• Making Use of Digital Systems: Upgrading and integrating the Synergy case management system to improve efficiency and transparency.

Community Safety Partnership Scrutinized

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee also discussed the work of the Barking and Dagenham Community Safety Partnership (CSP). The CSP is required to formulate and implement strategies to reduce crime and disorder, combat the misuse of drugs and alcohol, reduce re-offending, and prevent serious violence. The committee was asked to note the work of the partners that form the Barking and Dagenham CSP, note the development of a new CSP strategy for 2026-2030, and adopt the Community Safety Partnership Scrutiny Protocol.

Director of Public Health's Annual Report Highlights Prevention and Inequalities

The Health & Wellbeing Board and ICB Sub-Committee (Committees in Common) met to discuss a range of issues, including the Director of Public Health's Annual Report 2024/25. The report, entitled Getting Serious about Prevention Together , highlights the importance of prevention and addressing health inequalities in the borough.

• The Stakes: The health and well-being of residents in Barking and Dagenham are directly impacted by the effectiveness of public health initiatives and the availability of healthcare services.
• Vulnerable Groups: The report focuses on addressing health gaps and priorities that need to be addressed, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Read the full details of the meeting.

Key Themes of the Report

The report is structured around the themes of:

• Agreeing place based outcomes
• Delivering outcomes through Integrated Neighbourhood Teams[^13]
• Prevention
• Improving Cancer Journeys
• Being ready for school and for life
• Health and Housing
• Unlocking the potential of the Public Health Grant[^7]

Neighbourhood Working Update

The Health and Wellbeing Board and ICB Sub-Committee also received an update on neighbourhood working, as part of the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (NNHIP). The report pack included a draft delivery plan for Barking and Dagenham's implementation of neighbourhood health within the NNHIP, which set out deliverables relating to leadership and accountability, multi-disciplinary working, cohort and outcomes, data, digital and technology, co-production and communications, estates and OD, financial flows and funding, and learning, reporting and sharing.

Draft NHS System Strategy and Outline Commissioning Intentions

The Health and Wellbeing Board and ICB Sub-Committee were also asked to comment on the approach expressing a view on the following:

• Does the strategy cover the core aspects we should emphasise as a system and is anything critical missing?
• In what ways can we fully utilise an Outcomes and Equity framework in our system?
• What are the collaborative ways of working we want to hold onto as a whole system to deliver our new strategy?
• Given the status as precursors to the final strategic commissioning plans, are there any important concerns or initial input you have regarding the commission intentions?

Tackling Poverty and Inequality

The Health and Wellbeing Board and ICB Sub-Committee also received summaries of the council's Foundations for Change: Tackling Poverty Strategy 2025/26 and Building a Fairer Future Together - Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Strategy 2025-2029. These strategies highlight the council's commitment to addressing poverty and inequality in the borough.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Policy Task Group are scheduled to meet on Monday 10 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Cabinet are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 11 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Planning Committee are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 12 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Licensing Sub-Committee are scheduled to meet on Thursday 13 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Licensing and Regulatory Committee are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 18 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Assembly are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 19 November 2025. See the meeting details.

This week in Barking and Dagenham:

Licensing Application Sparks Police Concerns Over Illegal Workers

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, 21 October 2025, to discuss the transfer of a premises licence for Garip Superstore T/A Costcutter was postponed. The application sought to remove Ismail Garip as a licence holder, leaving Caglar Garip as the sole licence holder.

• The Stakes: Licensing decisions directly impact community safety and the responsible sale of alcohol.
• Vulnerable Groups: Illegal employment practices can exploit vulnerable workers and undermine fair labor standards.

Police Object to Licence Transfer

The Metropolitan Police had submitted a representation objecting to the transfer, citing the venue's previous licence revocation on 28 August 2025, after the discovery of three illegal workers and breaches of licence conditions. PC Owen Dunn of the East Area Licensing Team raised concerns about Caglar Garip's suitability to hold a licence, given his apparent lack of knowledge about the business's operations. The police stated that they did not have confidence that Mr Caglar Garip was a suitable person to be a licence holder.

Read the full details of the postponed meeting.

Director Appointments Discussed Behind Closed Doors

The Barking and Dagenham Council JNC Appointments, Salaries and Structures Panel met on Monday 20 October 2025, to discuss the appointment of a Director of Enforcement, Regulatory Services and Community Safety, as well as the extension of appointment and honorarium for the Interim Director of Care, Community and Health Integration post, and the appointment of an Interim Director of Public Realm.

• The Stakes: The appointment of key leadership positions shapes the direction and effectiveness of council services.
• Vulnerable Groups: The Director of Care, Community and Health Integration plays a crucial role in ensuring vulnerable residents receive the support they need.

Confidentiality Concerns

The meeting was held in private, citing the need to discuss individuals, which is exempt from publication under the Local Government Act 1972. This lack of transparency raises concerns about public accountability.

Read the full details of the meeting.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Health & Wellbeing Board and ICB Sub-Committee (Committees in Common) are scheduled to meet on Tuesday 04 November 2025. See the meeting details.
• The Overview and Scrutiny Committee are scheduled to meet on Wednesday 05 November 2025, to discuss the Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP) process, and the Barking and Dagenham Community Safety Partnership. See the meeting details.