The Cabinet of Newham Council met on Tuesday 22 July 2025, and addressed a range of issues from responding to a best value notice, to approving a growth plan, and making decisions on housing and social care. The cabinet approved recommendations regarding outside bodies, best value, finance, transformation, growth, employment, housing and social care.

Delivering Best Value

Following the issuing of a non-statutory best value notice by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Cabinet discussed the council's response, which includes an action plan addressing 15 key improvement areas. These areas include governance, financial controls, financial sustainability, and organisational culture. The council's response involves working with the independent Transformation and Improvement Board, chaired by Rob Whiteman¹, and focuses on strengthening decision-making, sharpening financial planning, and embedding a more accountable and open culture.

Paul Martin, the new interim chief executive, addressed the meeting, stating that the notice presents an opportunity for preventative action and improvement. He noted that the issues raised by the ministry were not new, but a summary of what was already known.

Councillor Sharlene McLean asked how the council is using insights from the transformation and improvement board to support delivery on the best value notice.

Jason Strelitz, corporate director for adults and health, highlighted the support from Carol Tozer, the independent expert on the board for adult social care. Laura Eden, corporate director of young people services, noted the robust challenge provided by Elena Brazil. Conrad Hall, corporate director of resources, spoke about the limited use of non-executives in the local authority sector. Paul Quickson, corporate director for inclusive economy housing and culture, noted the contributions of Pamela Leonce and Diana Roach. Councillor Neil Wilson spoke about the peer review undertaken by the London Association of Directors of Adult Social Care. Councillor Sarah Jane Ruiz spoke about the importance of cross-departmental working. Councillor Amar Virdee spoke about the importance of transparency and openness.

July Finance Review

Councillor Zulfiqar Ali introduced the July Finance Review, highlighting a slight improvement in the council's financial forecast but cautioned against complacency. The review includes updates on the 2024/25 financial outturn, the 2025/26 budget monitoring for the first quarter, and the medium-term financial strategy. The council is projecting a £115 million shortfall by 2028/29. Councillor Ali noted that the council balanced the budget this year through exceptional support and asset disposal, which is not sustainable.

Conrad Hall added that the funding review may lead to significant changes in funding distribution for local authorities. He said that the current assessment is positive for Newham, with a potential rise of £30 million over the next three years. However, he emphasised that this is a consultation and may change. He also highlighted a substantial increase in Newham's population, according to 2025 data from the Office for National Statistics, which needs to be considered for funding distribution.

The Cabinet agreed to proceed with a public consultation by the autumn, seeking views on service priorities, and to note the council's commitment to reducing the budget gap through savings.

Newham's Transformation and Improvement

Councillor Rita Chadha presented the Newham's Transformation and Improvement: Building a Fairer Newham Integrated Performance Report 2024-2025, which brings together performance and transformation updates. The report provides a comprehensive picture of the council's delivery on its missions. Councillor Chadha noted that the new format makes the report easier to read. She also noted that the report explains where things are in the red and why.

The Cabinet agreed to note the progress made in delivering the Building a Fairer Newham Corporate Delivery Plan and the Transforming Newham for the Future Plan, and to agree the new Building a Fairer Newham key performance data targets for 2025/26.

Newham Growth Plan 2025-2030

The Cabinet then discussed the Newham Growth Plan 2025-2030, which outlines the council's economic development ambitions. The plan is underpinned by inclusive growth and community wealth building, and identifies priority areas such as green industries, community wealth building, quality homes, neighbourhoods, and a fair local economy.

Darren Macken, director of community wealth building, drew attention to the structure of the report, which focuses on the foundational economy and growth sectors.

Councillor John Whitworth said that the report shows the very core purpose of the council, that is growth for a purpose.

The Cabinet agreed to approve the Newham Growth Plan 2025-2030.

Acceptance of Grant Funding for the Connect to Work Programme

The Cabinet then moved on to discuss the acceptance of grant funding for the Connect to Work Programme. The programme is linked to the government's Get Britain Working intention, and will provide support to those who are long-term unemployed.

Darren Macken said that the grant allocation is for a five-year period, between June 2025 and March 2030, and is up to £5.5 million.

Councillor Sarah Jane Ruiz asked how the council will ensure that it targets adults and young people with a learning disability or a mental health need.

The Cabinet agreed to accept the allocation of Connect to Work grant funding of £5.47 million between June 2025 and 31 March 2030, and to enter into the agreement with Local London as a sub-regional lead.

Newham Living: Stratford & Forest Gate Assets Refurbishment Proposals

The Cabinet then discussed the Newham Living: Stratford & Forest Gate Assets Refurbishment Proposals. Councillor Amar Virdee said that the report looks at some of the council's existing assets under the New Living programme, and its approach to alleviate the growing pressures in temporary accommodation. Councillor Neil Wilson said that supported accommodation provides a safe and secure home for vulnerable residents.

Simon Reid said that this is a really good example of all of us coming together as a council assessing our options and putting forward services that will really meet the needs of residents whilst also helping us financially.

Councillor Kathika asked about the assurances that residents have in terms of getting involved in the design and the delivery of the scheme as a whole.

The Cabinet agreed to the allocation of up to £2,054,000 from the council’s Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme for the refurbishment of Property A, and to the allocation of up to £1,140,000 from the council’s Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme for the refurbishment of Property B.

Grant Funding Award from Warm Homes Social Housing, 2025-2028

The Cabinet then discussed the Grant Funding Award from Warm Homes Social Housing, 2025-2028. Councillor Blossom Young said that the council is committed to receiving energy performance certificate C across its entire council housing stock by 2030.

Andy Kemp, senior climate action program manager, said that the initial selection of houses are provisional, and various retrofit assessments need to be done.

Councillor Sarah Jane Ruiz asked how this program fits in with the council’s already damp and mold program.

The Cabinet agreed to the council’s acceptance of £1,520,471 of funding allocated from the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund programme via the London Councils (Retrofit London) Consortium, and to the council’s entry into legal agreements with the London Councils (Retrofit London) Consortium, Camden LBC and the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero.

Independent Living Support Service - Contract Award

The Cabinet then discussed the Independent Living Support Service - Contract Award. Councillor Neil Wilson said that the current adults and health framework agreement for home care has been very successful. Councillor Sarah Jane Ruiz said that the executive gave permission to procure a new multi-lot all-age independent living support service in June.

Jason Strelitz said that in the new model, all of the providers will be CQC good.

Councillor Blossom Young asked how the council is ensuring quality over the lifespan of the service.

The Cabinet agreed to extend the current purchasing arrangements from 12 July 2025 to 6 October 2025, and to establish a five Lot, Independent Living Support Service Framework Agreement, to commence on 6 October 2025.