The Royal Borough of Greenwich's Housing and Neighbourhoods Scrutiny Panel met on 10 September 2025, and agreed to defer a discussion on leaseholder repayment terms to a later meeting on 15 October 2025. The panel also discussed a new strategy for ending male violence against women and girls, and reviewed the schedule for upcoming reports.

Ending Male Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy

The panel considered a report on the Ending Male Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy, which aims to address violence against women and girls (VAWG) by focusing on prevention, accountability, and cultural change. The strategy recognises that women and girls are disproportionately affected by male violence, and it seeks to tackle the root causes of gender-based abuse.

The council has engaged with residents, professionals, and key stakeholders, including the Metropolitan Police, NHS, and local organisations, to inform the strategy. Public consultations, focus groups, and online surveys have been conducted to ensure that the lived experiences of those in Royal Greenwich shape the borough's approach.

The strategy outlines eight strategic objectives:

1. Male Accountability and Behaviour Change
2. Allyship and Community Engagement
3. Prevention and Education
4. Supporting Victims and Survivors
5. Legal and Policy Frameworks
6. Public Spaces Safety
7. Intersectionality and Inclusivity
8. Monitoring, Evaluation and Accountability

The strategy also addresses domestic abuse (DA), which is described as by far the most prevalent and resource intensive form of abuse facing women and girls . The report highlights the extensive strategic and operational work to address DA across Greenwich, including findings from a Serious Violence Needs Assessment and the use of up-to-date research to ensure effective prevention and reduction interventions.

The panel was asked to consider the report and make recommendations to the Executive, if necessary, and to agree that the report and any recommendations be submitted to the Chief Executive. The panel was also asked to note that the report and responses to the recommendations would be presented at the next meeting of the Panel, where possible.

Commissioning of Future Reports

The panel reviewed the schedule for upcoming reports and considered the scope of forthcoming reports. An additional meeting was scheduled for 15 October 2025 to enable pre-decision scrutiny of the item Leaseholder Repayment Terms – Major Works, which is due to be considered by Cabinet in October.

The panel is scheduled to receive the following reports at its meeting on 5 November 2025:

• Phase one of Rethinking Tenancy and action plan
• Resident engagement in meeting new requirements for the safety of high-rise buildings
• Anti-social behaviour response especially balancing the rights of the vulnerable and those of their neighbours

The panel was asked to consider the items outlined above and to determine any specific requirements before those reports are commissioned.

Declarations of Interest

The panel was asked to note the list of councillors' memberships as council-appointed representatives on outside bodies, joint committees, and school governing bodies. Members were also asked to declare any personal or financial interests in specific items listed on the agenda as they relate to matters under discussion.

Minutes

The panel was asked to confirm the minutes of the meeting held on 15 July 2025 as an accurate record.