The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 3 September 2026 to discuss the annual report of the Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, the response to a report on improving food waste recycling, and the performance of Trading Standards. The committee also received updates on Camden's managed trees and the committee's work programme.

Cabinet Member for Community Resilience: Annual Report 2026

Councillor Rebecca Filer, Chair of the Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee, introduced the annual report from Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Community Resilience. The report highlighted the Council's work with over 2,400 voluntary, community, and faith groups, investing £4.1 million annually to support them. Significant efforts were made to foster understanding and cohesion between different communities through events and interfaith initiatives. The Council also allocated up to £420,000 to support refugees and asylum seekers and managed over 90 community buildings, with ongoing work to improve accessibility. A new strategy to combat violence against women and girls was nearing completion, with survivors involved in training police officers and shaping housing policies. The report also noted that over 72% of Camden adults are physically active and that the coroner service efficiently resolves cases.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about support for trans residents experiencing domestic abuse and how services and refuge accommodation accommodate them following recent legal developments. The Cabinet Member assured the committee that all residents, including trans individuals, receive equal support and that discriminatory barriers would not be tolerated. A detailed written update on specific services and refuge spaces for trans residents was promised. The committee also received an update on ongoing work regarding signage and accessibility for blind residents, with pilot projects and engagement with relevant organisations underway. The future of interfaith work was discussed, with a focus on expanding existing programmes and strengthening relationship-building and community-led activities. The Council's move towards a borough-wide model of community power was described as an ongoing development aimed at giving residents greater influence over decisions, with a full update to be provided in the future. The Diversity in the Public Realm strategy was also discussed, with ongoing work to celebrate diverse communities and shape future activities, including the addition of statues and signs reflecting local history. The embedding of disability and equality considerations across council services was highlighted, with all services reviewed through the Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) process and input from Disability Advisory Groups and Deaf and Hard of Hearing groups. The Council's commitment to improving accessibility across all services was reiterated. The committee was informed that survivors of abuse had assisted in training police officers, and the Council planned to lease a new safety bus, restart night-time safety walks, and address issues with dark streets. The Council's commitment to supporting trans and non-binary residents and staff was affirmed through equality assessments, staff networks, training, safeguarding procedures, and inclusive policies, with a commitment to continuous review and improvement.

The committee praised the Interfaith Network and Camden's leadership in this area, inquiring about potential expansion. The concept of a borough-wide model of community power was welcomed, with members seeking clarification on its practical implementation. The wide range of activities and strong focus on community engagement, equality, inclusion, and partnership working were commended.

Response to the Cabinet Adviser Report on Improving Food Waste Recycling in Camden

Councillor James Slater, Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden, presented the response to the Cabinet Adviser's report on improving food waste recycling. He noted the complexity of food waste recycling, influenced by government mandates and the Council's ongoing implementation efforts. The report highlighted that approximately 27% of residual household waste in Camden consists of food waste, with 75% of this being avoidable. Ten recommendations from the Cabinet Adviser were discussed, focusing on expanding food waste collections, particularly for flats above shops, and improving communication and engagement strategies.

Officers confirmed that early trials for flats above shops had been small-scale, with a larger rollout planned for the north of the borough in autumn 2026 to gather more comprehensive performance data. The challenge of engaging managing agents, landlords, and private housing blocks was acknowledged as a major goal for the coming year, with Camden collaborating with other North London boroughs to share best practices. The Council's work through Camden's Food Mission, including partnerships for redistributing surplus food, was highlighted. Discussions also covered the use of food waste pellets within the borough and the placement of new bins, with options for smaller bins to accommodate residents' needs. Targeted support for low-performing estates, including door-knocking, leaflets, outreach, and the recruitment of local champions, was detailed. The Council's monthly meetings with its waste contractor, Veolia, to review recycling figures were confirmed. Members requested further information on participation rates, contamination levels, and engagement with private housing providers.

Trading Standards - 2025/26 Performance, Sector Leadership and Legislative Landscape

William Sasu, Head of Healthy Places and Public Protection, presented the Trading Standards performance report. He highlighted significant achievements over the past year, including the seizure of over 7,000 illegal vapes, 15,000 illegal tobacco products, and 3,000 unsafe counterfeit toys. The team also successfully intervened in a case involving the sale of fake silver jewellery. Preparations for the new Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, which will enhance the Council's regulatory powers, were also outlined.

In response to questions, Mr. Sasu explained that enforcement priorities are determined by national guidelines, local intelligence, organised crime activity, and risks to public safety. The team focuses on high-risk areas and collaborates with the police to combat organised crime and ensure high street safety. While the service does not fully recover its costs through enforcement, with most seized items being destroyed, opportunities under proceeds of crime legislation are being explored. The Council works with Public Health on school engagement regarding vaping and tobacco issues, mapping vape shop locations near schools and targeting enforcement activities in areas affecting young people. The aim of new tobacco laws is to reduce smoking and long-term health harms, with a primary goal of preventing young people from starting to smoke. The use of overt and covert surveillance for investigating illegal activity, with appropriate authorisation, was confirmed. The team's work with the police to combat crime, modern slavery, and counterfeit goods was noted as contributing to safer high streets and protecting young people and local businesses.

Camden Managed Trees

David Houghton, Tree Manager, presented an update on the management of Camden's urban forest, which comprises approximately 29,000 trees. He highlighted that trees are considered critical infrastructure, and work is ongoing to increase tree canopy cover, guided by climate resilience and biodiversity principles. The Carbon Heroes scheme is being explored as an innovative way to attract external funding for tree planting and maintenance.

In response to questions, Mr. Houghton explained that Camden does not use the Trees for Streets model as it may not effectively target areas with the greatest need for increased tree cover. The Council prioritises planting in poorer areas with limited existing trees. The Carbon Heroes scheme, a new trial, involves seeking funding from businesses and contracts to support tree planting and maintenance, with early interest being positive. Information on the carbon footprint of Carbon Heroes' technology will be sought from the company. Regarding the replacement of mature trees, larger species are planted where conditions permit, with smaller trees being easier to transport and requiring less water. The Council aims for age and species diversification in its tree stock to enhance resilience. Climate change is influencing tree management, with species selection based on future climate conditions and climate resilience being a key factor in new planting decisions. The Tree Manager agreed to provide information on the carbon footprint of Carbon Heroes' technology. He also addressed concerns about missing planting targets, attributing them to funding and contractor availability during the planting season, but noted that healthier existing trees mean fewer removals and more opportunities for new planting. Residents are offered choices of suitable trees to ensure biodiversity and prevent a sole focus on ornamental species. The team collaborates with housing teams to manage tree roots damaging pavements and works with transport and public realm teams to incorporate trees and rain gardens for flood mitigation and climate resilience.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee Work Programme and Action Tracker

Richard Bradbury, Director of Environment and Sustainability, presented the proposed work programme for 2026/27 and an update on the action tracker. Members noted that the Climate Action Plan report, originally scheduled for February 2027, would be delayed to allow officers more time to gather accurate data and produce a high-quality report. The committee was informed of a new Director of Economy, Regeneration and Investment who would oversee culture and regeneration items. The action tracker will continue to be updated throughout the year.

The committee resolved to note the report.

The Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee of Camden Council met on Thursday 3 September 2026 to review various council initiatives. Key discussions included the annual report of the Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, improvements to food waste recycling, the performance of Trading Standards, and the management of Camden's trees. The committee also reviewed its work programme for the upcoming year.

Cabinet Member for Community Resilience: Annual Report 2026

Councillor Pat Callaghan, Cabinet Member for Community Resilience, presented her annual report, highlighting the Council's extensive work with over 2,400 voluntary, community, and faith groups, supported by an annual investment of £4.1 million. The report detailed efforts to foster community cohesion through interfaith initiatives and events, alongside significant support for refugees and asylum seekers, with up to £420,000 allocated. The management of over 90 community buildings was also discussed, with ongoing improvements to accessibility. A new strategy to combat violence against women and girls was nearing completion, involving survivors in training police officers and shaping housing policies. The report noted that over 72% of Camden adults are physically active and that the coroner service efficiently resolves cases.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding support for trans residents experiencing domestic abuse and how services and refuge accommodation accommodate them. The Cabinet Member assured the committee that all residents, including trans individuals, receive equal support and that discriminatory barriers would not be tolerated, promising a detailed written update. Updates were also provided on ongoing work concerning signage and accessibility for blind residents, with pilot projects and engagement with relevant organisations underway. The future of interfaith work was discussed, with a focus on expanding existing programmes and strengthening relationship-building. The Council's move towards a borough-wide model of community power, aimed at increasing resident influence, was described as an ongoing development. The Diversity in the Public Realm strategy was also discussed, with ongoing efforts to celebrate diverse communities and shape future activities. The embedding of disability and equality considerations across council services was highlighted, with all services reviewed through the Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) process and input from advisory groups. The committee was informed of initiatives to improve safety, including training for police officers, a new safety bus, and night-time safety walks. The Council's commitment to supporting trans and non-binary residents and staff was affirmed through various policies and procedures. The committee commended the Interfaith Network and Camden's leadership in this area, inquiring about potential expansion, and welcomed the concept of community power, seeking clarification on its implementation.

Response to the Cabinet Adviser Report on Improving Food Waste Recycling

Councillor James Slater, Cabinet Member for Planning and a Sustainable Camden, presented the response to the Cabinet Adviser's report on improving food waste recycling. The report indicated that approximately 27% of residual household waste in Camden is food waste, with 75% of this being avoidable. Ten recommendations were discussed, focusing on expanding food waste collections, particularly for flats above shops, and enhancing communication and engagement strategies.

Officers confirmed that initial trials for flats above shops had been small-scale, with a larger rollout planned for the north of the borough in autumn 2026. The challenge of engaging managing agents, landlords, and private housing blocks was identified as a key priority for the coming year, with Camden collaborating with other North London boroughs to share best practices. The Council's work through Camden's Food Mission, including partnerships for redistributing surplus food, was highlighted. Discussions also covered the use of food waste pellets within the borough and the placement of new bins, with options for smaller bins to accommodate residents' needs. Targeted support for low-performing estates, including door-knocking, leaflets, outreach, and the recruitment of local champions, was detailed. The Council's monthly meetings with its waste contractor, Veolia, to review recycling figures were confirmed. Members requested further information on participation rates, contamination levels, and engagement with private housing providers.

Trading Standards - 2025/26 Performance, Sector Leadership and Legislative Landscape

William Sasu, Head of Healthy Places and Public Protection, presented the Trading Standards performance report. Key achievements included the seizure of over 7,000 illegal vapes, 15,000 illegal tobacco products, and 3,000 unsafe counterfeit toys. The team also intervened in a case involving the sale of fake silver jewellery. Preparations for the new Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, which will enhance the Council's regulatory powers, were outlined.

Mr. Sasu explained that enforcement priorities are based on national guidelines, local intelligence, organised crime activity, and risks to public safety. The team collaborates with the police to combat organised crime and ensure high street safety. While the service does not fully recover its costs through enforcement, opportunities under proceeds of crime legislation are being explored. The Council works with Public Health on school engagement regarding vaping and tobacco issues, and enforcement activities target areas affecting young people. The aim of new tobacco laws is to reduce smoking and long-term health harms, with a primary goal of preventing young people from starting to smoke. The use of overt and covert surveillance for investigating illegal activity was confirmed. The team's work with the police to combat crime, modern slavery, and counterfeit goods was noted as contributing to safer high streets.

Camden Managed Trees

David Houghton, Tree Manager, presented an update on the management of Camden's urban forest, comprising approximately 29,000 trees. He highlighted that trees are considered critical infrastructure, and efforts are underway to increase tree canopy cover, guided by climate resilience and biodiversity principles. The Carbon Heroes scheme is being explored as an innovative way to attract external funding for tree planting and maintenance.

Mr. Houghton explained that Camden prioritises planting in areas with limited existing tree cover. The Carbon Heroes scheme, a new trial, involves seeking funding from businesses and contracts to support tree planting and maintenance. Information on the carbon footprint of Carbon Heroes' technology will be sought from the company. Regarding the replacement of mature trees, larger species are planted where conditions permit, with smaller trees being easier to transport and requiring less water. The Council aims for age and species diversification in its tree stock to enhance resilience. Climate change is influencing tree management, with species selection based on future climate conditions. The team collaborates with housing teams to manage tree roots damaging pavements and works with transport and public realm teams to incorporate trees and rain gardens for flood mitigation and climate resilience.

Culture and Environment Scrutiny Committee Work Programme and Action Tracker

Richard Bradbury, Director of Environment and Sustainability, presented the proposed work programme for 2026/27 and an update on the action tracker. The committee noted that the Climate Action Plan report, originally scheduled for February 2027, would be delayed to allow officers more time to gather accurate data. The committee was informed of a new Director of Economy, Regeneration and Investment who would oversee culture and regeneration items. The action tracker will continue to be updated throughout the year.