Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: July 22, 2025

Purpose: To accept the allocation of Connect to Work grant funding of up to £5.5 (awaiting final confirmation) between June 2025 and 31st March 2030 and enter into the agreement with Local London as the sub-regional lead.   Approve the grant delivery which is defined by and in line with the grant funding guidance.   To delegate authority to the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy and Housing in consultation with the Lead member for Inclusive Economy and Strategic Housing Delivery and Culture, to accept any additional funding over £5.5 million that the Council may be awarded and agree the revised delivery plan.

Content: For the reasons set out in the report and its appendices Cabinet RESOLVED to agree to:   i)  Accept the allocation of Connect to Work grant funding of £5.47m between June 2025 and 31st March 2030 and enter into the agreement with Local London as the sub-regional lead. ii)  Approve the grant delivery which is defined by and in line with the grant funding guidance. iii)  Delegate authority to the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy and Housing in consultation with the Lead member for Inclusive Economy and Strategic Housing Delivery and Culture, to accept any additional funding over £5.5 million that the Council may be awarded and agree the revised delivery plan.   Alternatives Considered   a)  Option 1 - Do nothing –This approach is not recommended due to substantial drawbacks including no provision to be able to support residents with long term help problems into employment and funding reduction to service. Our Newham has cultivated with some of the community’s most vulnerable residents through the delivery of similar initiatives. b)  Option 2 - Commission - This option is not preferred as it would require a time-intensive procurement process, leaving minimal time for operational delivery within the funding period. Additionally, an external provider would likely lack the local specialist knowledge and established partnerships that Our Newham have. This would limit the ability to effectively reach and support vulnerable and seldom-engaged residents. c)  Option 3 - Accept the grant and authorise Our Newham Work to deliver the Connect to Work project -This is the recommended approach, as it will enable support for the borough's most disadvantaged residents. The funding will allow the provision of services designed to help residents secure employment while addressing any additional barriers preventing them from achieving their goals. By leveraging the expertise and existing partnerships of Our Newham Work, this option ensures a tailored, impactful service for those who need it most. The government approach is to devolve power to LA’s who have local knowledge to deliver local priorities.