Agenda, decisions and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Kim Wright (Chief Executive) with Minesh Patel (Corporate Director Finance & Resources) acting as her representative and Rachel Crossley (Corporate Director Service Reform & Strategy) with Rhodri Rowlands (Director of Strategic Commissioning Capacity Building & Engagement) attending as her representative.

Apologies for absence were received from Kim Wright (Chief Executive) with Minesh Patel (Corporate Director Finance & Resources) acting as her representative and Rachel Crossley (Corporate Director Service Reform & Strategy) with Rhodri Rowlands (Director of Strategic Commissioning Capacity Building & Engagement) attending as her representative.

Members are invited to declare at this stage of the meeting, the nature and existence of any relevant disclosable pecuniary or personal interests in the items on this agenda and to specify the item(s) to which they relate.

No declarations of interest were made during the meeting.

No declarations of interest were made during the meeting.

To approve the minutes of the previous Cabinet meeting held on Monday 9 February 2026 as a correct record.

(Agenda republished to include the attached minutes on 6 March 2026)

Cabinet RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 9 February 2026 be approved as a correct record of the meeting.

Cabinet RESOLVED that the minutes of the previous meeting held on Monday 9 February 2026 be approved as a correct record of the meeting.

To consider any matters arising from the minutes of the previous meeting.

None identified

None identified.

To receive and consider any petitions for which notice has been provided under Standing Order 66.

Members are asked to note that the following petition is due to be presented at the meeting:

(a)    Lighting at Tiverton Green.

The supporting details on the petition have been attached, for reference.

(Members are asked to note this petition was approved for presentation following the original agenda having been published)

Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) welcomed Alison Durant (as lead petitioner) to the meeting, who he advised was attending to present a petition regarding Lighting at Tiverton Green.

In thanking the Leader of the Council for the opportunity to present the petition, Alison Durant explained that Tiverton Green was a green space in the Queens Park area, directly south of Queens Park Community School, which included a range of outdoor leisure facilities as well as a children’s play area and was a well-used space providing a convenient access route for residents in the neighbourhood and for pupils attending the local school.

In outlining the concerns being raised within the petition, Alison Durant advised that whilst the space was accessible at all hours it was unlit, meaning access was in complete darkness during the winter months.  In highlighting her personal experience, members were advised that this had led to concerns being raised by parents, children and the local community in relation to safety by those seeking to use the space once daylight faded, with specific examples provided in relation to the impact on school pupils using the space as a route home after school.  As a result of the concerns highlighted and following discussion with Councillor Nerva (as a local ward councillor) she had therefore started the petition seeking the installation of lighting on paths across the Green.  This had resulted in a total of 548 signatures being obtained in support demonstrating what she felt to be the strong desire across the local community for the lighting issue to be addressed.

In outlining the basis for the support identified, Alison Durant highlighted that lighting made people feel safe which would subsequently result in more people using the Green and lead, as a wider benefit, to improvements in the health and wellbeing of the community.  It was also pointed out that a number of the pathways across the Green did not benefit from adjacent street lighting.

Whilst advocating for improved lighting, however, the petitioners had also recognised the associated cost implications as well as the need to consider the impact of lighting on the surrounding ecology and wildlife.  As a result, it was pointed out that the petitioners had been working with a lighting consultant who had identified the potential for a lighting scheme that, whilst cost effective, would also be sympathetic to the ecology and wildlife of the surrounding Green, on which they were keen to continue working with the Council in order to explore available options.

In summarising, Alison Durant advised members that the petitioners were therefore seeking to advocate for the provision of suitable, considerate lighting that would benefit the local community as well as school pupils in being able to safely access and use the Green after dark in a way that was also cost effective and appropriate for the ecology of the area. In welcoming the discussions already undertaken with councillors and Council officers, it was also suggested that the implementation of lighting in  ...  view the full decision text for item 5.

5.1      Lighting at Tiverton Green

Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) welcomed Alison Durant (as a local resident and lead petitioner) to the meeting, who he advised was attending to present a petition regarding Lighting at Tiverton Green.

In thanking the Leader of the Council for the opportunity to present the petition, Alison Durant explained that Tiverton Green was a green space in the Queens Park area, directly south of Queens Park Community School, which included a range of outdoor leisure facilities as well as a children’s play area and was a well-used space providing a convenient access route for residents in the neighbourhood and for pupils attending the local school.

In outlining the concerns being raised within the petition, Alison Durant advised that whilst the space was accessible at all hours it was unlit, meaning access was in darkness overnight and in evenings during the winter months.  In highlighting her personal experience, members were advised that this had led to concerns being raised by parents, children and the local community in relation to safety by those seeking to use the space once daylight faded, with specific examples provided in relation to the impact on school pupils using the space as a route home after school.  As a result of the concerns highlighted and following discussion with Councillor Nerva (as a local ward councillor) she had therefore started the petition seeking the installation of lighting on paths across the Green.  This had resulted in a total of 548 signatures being obtained in support, demonstrating what she felt to be the strong desire across the local community for the lighting issue to be addressed.

In outlining the basis for the support identified, Alison Durant highlighted that lighting made people feel safe which would subsequently result in more people using the Green and lead, as a wider benefit, to improvements in the health and wellbeing of the community.  It was also pointed out that a number of the pathways across the Green did not benefit from adjacent street lighting.

Whilst advocating for improved lighting, however, the petitioners had also recognised the associated cost implications as well as the need to consider the impact of lighting on the surrounding ecology and wildlife.  As a result, she advised that petitioners had been working with a lighting consultant who had identified the potential for a lighting scheme that, whilst cost effective, would also be sympathetic to the ecology and wildlife of the surrounding Green on which they were keen to continue working with the Council, in order to explore available options.

In summarising, Alison Durant advised members that the petitioners were therefore seeking to advocate for the provision of suitable, considerate lighting that would benefit the local community as well as school pupils in being able to safely access and use the Green after dark in a way that was also cost effective and appropriate for the ecology of the area. In welcoming the discussions already undertaken with  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

To consider any reports referred to Cabinet by either the Community & Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

There were no items referred from either the Community Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

There were no items referred from either the Community Wellbeing or Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committees.

NOTED the change in order of business on the agenda with Agenda Iatem 8 (Membership of i4B Holdings Ltd and First Wave Housing Ltd Boards), Agenda Item 9 (i4B Holdings Ltd Business Plan 2026-27) and Agenda Item 10 (First Wave Housing Business Plan 2026-27) considered in advance of the remainder of the agenda due to Andrew Hudson (Chair of the i4b & FWH Boards Ltd being in attendance for the consideration of those items.

The decision sheet therefore reflects the order in which items were considered at the meeting.

NOTED the change in order of business on the agenda with Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) advising that Agenda Item 8 (Membership of i4B Holdings Ltd and First Wave Housing Ltd Boards), Agenda Item 9 (i4B Holdings Ltd Business Plan 2026-27) and Agenda Item 10 (First Wave Housing Ltd Business Plan 2026-27) would be considered in advance of the remainder of the agenda due to Andrew Hudson (Chair of the i4b & FWH Boards Ltd being in attendance for the consideration of those items.

The minutes therefore reflect the order in which items were considered at the meeting.

This report seeks approval for an Director appointment to the board of the Council’s two wholly owned housing companies, i4B Holdings Ltd (i4B) and First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH).

Prior to considering the report, Cabinet noted the comments by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B & FWH Ltd Boards) in support of the proposed appointed being recommended to the Board as a means of ensuring both Boards continued to benefit from the regeneration expertise and oversight required to guide them moving forward.

Having noted the comments and support expressed, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note that Sadie East had stood down as Director of i4B and FWH as of 31 January 2026 with Cabinet taking the opportunity to acknowledge and thank her for the contribution made to the operation of both Boards.

(2)    To approve the appointment of Jonathan Kay as a director of i4B and FWH for a period of three years effective from 16 March 2026.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Prior to considering the report, Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) welcomed Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B & FWH Ltd Boards) to the meeting who was invited to comment on the proposals within the report.  In addressing Cabinet, Andrew Hudson highlighted the support expressed by both Boards in relation to the proposed appointed being recommended as a means of ensuring they continued to benefit from the necessary expertise and oversight required to guide them moving forward.

Having thanked Andrew Hudson for his comments, the Leader then invited Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing) to introduce the accompanying report from the Corporate Director Finance and Resources recommending the appointment of a new Director to the Board of the Council’s two wholly owned housing companies, i4B Holdings Ltd (i4B) and First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH).

In introducing the report, Councillor Donnelly-Jackson advised that approval was being sought to the appointment of Jonathan Kay (Brent Council’s Head of Regeneration) as a Director of both i4B Holdings Ltd and First Wave Housing Ltd for a period of three years, following Sadie East having stepped down from the role and left the Council at the end of January 2026.  Before outlining the basis of the proposed appointment, the opportunity was taken to place on record the Council’s sincere thanks to Sadie East for the important contribution made to the governance and development of both companies during her time as a Director and her role in helping to strengthen the oversight and direction of both organisations as a key element in Brent’s housing response.

Highlighting the central role i4B and First Wave Housing played in supporting the Councils approach towards tackling the ongoing housing crisis through the provision of good quality and secure homes and reduced reliance on expensive nightly accommodation, the importance in ensuring that the operation of both Boards remained subject to strong governance and leadership was outlined as a key priority.  It was in this respect Councillor Donnelly-Jackson advised she was pleased to be able to recommend the appointment of Jonathan Kay to fill the vacancy created following Sadie East’s departure as a means of ensuring that both boards continued to benefit from the expertise required as efforts were made to continue expanding and strengthening the contribution both companies made to supporting Brent residents.

Having noted the comments and support expressed for the appointment, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note that Sadie East had stood down as Director of i4B and FWH as of 31 January 2026 with Cabinet taking the opportunity to acknowledge and thank her for the contribution made to the operation of both Boards.

(2)    To approve the appointment of Jonathan Kay as a director of i4B and FWH for a period of three years effective from 16 March 2026.

This report provides Cabinet with a final draft of the i4B Holdings Ltd (i4B) 2026-27 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement with the Council.

Cabinet is asked to approve the Business Plan and Service Level Agreement on behalf of the Council as Shareholder of i4B Holdings.

Cabinet noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) in presenting the i4B and FWH Business Plans and strategic priorities for both companies.

In focussing on key areas of activity moving forward he highlighted the work being undertaken to improve operational performance in relation to voids and rent collection as well as to monitor and improve results relating to tenant satisfaction alongside work to address concerns around the tenant experience in some areas linked to issues such as anti-social behaviour.

In terms of strategic priorities, he advised members on the more streamlined approach being adopted in relation to the focus on key objectives relating to Tenant Satisfaction and operational performance in relation to voids and rent collection alongside work in seeking to maximise the Boards contribution to the Council’s wider priorities, with a specific focus in supporting the work being undertaken to tackle the demand for housing.  This included work being undertaken to identify workstreams over the coming year aiming to increase level of stock involving a wider range of options such as utilisation of commercial property (supported through grant provision available to Register Providers) alongside support for the delivery of Supported Exempt Accommodation through FWH Ltd.

In recognising the challenges outlined alongside current performance and welcoming the approach adopted in relation to the strategic priorities identified by i4B, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve the 2026-27 i4B Holdings Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Shareholder of the Company.

(2)    To approve the 2026-27 Service Level Agreement between i4B Holdings Ltd and the Council.

(3)    To delegate authority for the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources to approve the terms for the enforcement of key performance indicators in relevant SLAs to allow the i4B Board to implement.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Prior to consideration of the report, Councillor Muhammed Butt (as Leader of the Council) again welcomed and invited Andrew Hudson (as Chair of both the i4B Holdings Ltd and First Wave Housing Ltd Boards) to introduce the key themes and strategic priorities within the 2026-27 Business Plans for both i4B & FWH Ltd.

In focussing on key areas of activity moving forward, Andrew Hudson began by highlighting the work being undertaken to improve operational performance in relation to voids and rent collection as well as to monitor and improve results relating to tenant satisfaction alongside work to address concerns around the tenant experience in some areas linked to issues such as anti-social behaviour.

In terms of strategic priorities, he advised members of the more streamlined approach being adopted in relation to the focus on key objectives relating to Tenant Satisfaction and operational performance in relation to voids and rent collection alongside work in seeking to maximise the Boards contribution to the Council’s wider priorities, with a specific focus in supporting the work being undertaken to tackle the demand for housing.  This included work being undertaken to identify workstreams over the coming year aimed at increasing the level of stock involving which included a wide range of options such as utilisation of commercial property (supported through grant provision available to Register Providers) and support for the delivery of Supported Exempt Accommodation through FWH Housing Ltd.

Having thanked Andrew Hudson for his opening comments, the Leader then invited Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing) to introduce the report on the agenda detailing the final draft of the i4B Holdings Ltd 2026-27 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement for consideration and approval on behalf of the Council as Shareholder.

In presenting the report, Councillor Donnelly-Jackson highlighted the continued scale and challenges in addressing the level of housing need facing Brent and the important role played by i4B in providing stable, good quality accommodation for families who might otherwise be placed in expensive and unsuitable temporary housing along with the innovative and practical nature of i4B as one of the means established to support residents and manage the financial pressures faced by the Council.  Members were advised that since its creation the company had enabled Brent to purchase and manage homes providing stable, good-quality accommodation for access by those who might otherwise have been placed in more expensive and unsuitable temporary housing, not only securing better outcomes for residents but also reducing long-term costs to the Council.  As a result, members noted that the Business Plan had been designed to ensure the company continued to operate on a strong financial footing whilst maintaining a clear focus on delivering safe, secure and well-managed homes with the updated Service Level Agreement designed to further strengthen accountability and performance monitoring ensuring the company was able to continue delivering high standards of management and support for tenants.

In considering the report, Cabinet recognised and welcomed the role played by i4B as a key part of the Council's  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

This report provides Cabinet with a final draft of the First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH) 2026 – 27 Business Plan and revised Service Level Agreement with the Council.

Cabinet is asked to approve the Business Plan and Service Level Agreement on behalf of the Council as Guarantor of First Wave Housing

Having noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) under the previous item, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve the 2026-27 First Wave Housing Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Guarantor of the Company.

(2)    To approvethe 2026-27 Service Level Agreement between First Wave Housing Ltd and the Council.

(3)    To delegate authority for the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources to agree the terms for the enforcement of key performance indicators in relevant SLAs to allow the FWH Board to implement.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Donnelly Jackson (as Cabinet Member for Housing) then moved on to introduce the report, providing Cabinet with the final draft of the First Wave Housing Ltd (FWH) 2026-27 Business Plan along with details of the revised Service Level Agreement with the Council for consideration and approval on behalf of the Guarantor.

In presenting the report, Cabinet once again were advised of the key role played by First Wave Housing in Bent’s approach towards tackling the housing crisis, given the significant portfolio of homes managed across the borough which provided safe, secure, stable and affordable accommodation for residents and their families.  Whilst recognising the challenging context in which the company continued to operate, with sustained homelessness pressures and increasing demand for affordable housing across London and in Brent, the Business Plan and updated Service Level Agreement were welcomed as a means of ensuring the company remained able to continue fulfilling its role in a well governed, financially sustainable way focused on delivering high standards of housing management and positive outcomes for residents.  Support was also expressed for the way in which organisations such as First Wave Housing were able to ensure the Council was able to retain and manage housing assets providing long-term affordable homes for residents, while helping to reduce reliance on the private rented sector with specific reference also made to the support being provided through FWH towards the provision of Supported Exempt Accommodation, which was also welcomed as a means of delivering positive outcomes for Brent residents.

The Board were thanked for their work and support in this respect given the wider challenges outlined and positive impact for those families in housing need being offered accommodation as a result especially those with children & young people, care experienced young people and residents in supported living arrangements (now being made available through Support Exempt Accommodation).  The Business Plan and work of both companies was also welcomed from a regeneration and planning perspective, given the importance in ensuring a strong supply of well managed and genuinely affordable homes was maintained in supporting inclusive growth and successful regeneration across the borough with i4B and FWH recognised as forming part of that wider ecosystem.

Having noted the introductory comments made by Andrew Hudson (as Chair of the i4B and First Wave Housing (FWH) Ltd Boards) under the previous item including the focus of FWH Ltd (working with the Council) in seeking to maximise opportunities identified through its status as a Registered Provider in contributing towards the supply of affordable housing across the borough, Cabinet RESOLVED having also noted the current performance and strategic priorities outlined in relation to FWH along with the exempt information contained within the appendices of the report:

(1)    To approve the 2026-27 First Wave Housing Ltd Business Plan and financial model as Guarantor of the Company.

(2)    To approvethe 2026-27 Service Level Agreement between First Wave Housing Ltd and the Council.

(3)    To delegate authority for the Corporate Director of Finance and Resources to agree  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

Following the Government’s announcement about the establishment of the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) to replace the Household Support Fund (HSF) and Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP), this report sets out the Council’s proposed approach to use and allocation of the CRF focusing on the provision of crisis support and the strengthening of resilience within local communities.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the confirmation that Brent Council would receive a grant of £7.8m from the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) that was strictly ring-fenced and could only be used for the purposes set out within the fund to support households and communities experiencing financial hardship.

(2)    To approve the proposed approach for allocating and distributing the CRF as set out in paragraphs 7.0 – 7.24 of the report.

(3)    To note and approve that the Corporate Director for Residents & Housing Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Customer Experience, Resident Support and Culture would establish such detailed criteria as may be necessary to enable appropriate allocation of funding in accordance with (2) above and thereafter amend the eligibility criteria during the life time of this scheme. if necessary, for the reasons detailed in the report.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Knight (as Cabinet Member for Customer Experience, Resident Support and Culture) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Residents & Housing Services setting out the Council's proposed approach to the use and allocation of the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which had been established to replace the Household Support Fund (HSF) and Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) from 1 April 2026.

In presenting the report, Councillor Knight began by advising members of the background to the establishment of the Crisis and Resilience Fund with Brent’s allocation for 2026-27 totalling £7.8m, representing an increase of £1.3m (19%) on previous funding.  Recognising the benefits of the funding provided in enabling the Council to combine the provision of immediate assistance with longer term work to build financial resilience, members noted the way in which use of the funding had been designed to support residents across key areas of identified need.  This included the proposed allocation of over £1.6m for Discretionary Housing Payments alongside £100,000 for homelessness prevention (aligned with the Preventing Homelessness Programme) and the investment of £1.56m in the Resident Support Fund (building on the support provided for 2,220 Brent residents last year) with £2.18m also committed for Free School Meals holiday vouchers.  The opportunity was also taken to highlight how the allocation of funding was being used to support preventative measures aimed at ensuring residents avoided falling into difficulties, involving the continued support of partners such as Sufra through the allocation of £400,000 for the New Horizon Centre and ongoing backing for Citizens Advice Brent, local debt advice services and the Credit Union in an effort to tackle high-cost debt and support families back to stability.

In welcoming the report, and uplift in allocation of funding identified, members expressed support for the shift in national policy towards strengthening resilience alongside crisis response, enabling councils to invest in preventative, early-intervention approaches in a way that was designed to reduce future demand for emergency support.  This approach was felt to strongly align with Brent’s existing delivery model, building on the established work of the Council’s community hubs, community wellbeing service and the Council’s commitment to accessible neighbourhood support, with specific support expressed for the focus on the four key strands outlined in the supporting guidance: crisis support, housing-related support, resilience, and prevention.  In terms of Housing-related support, members commended the targeted approach towards early intervention for residents at risk of homelessness, including assistance with rent arrears, deposits, and other housing-related costs alongside tenancy sustainment advice and advocacy.  Reference was also made to the new Housing Payment Policy due to be introduced from 1 April 2026 (in order to replace the previous DHP policy) with the aim of aligning housing-related financial support with the Council’s wider homelessness prevention objectives.

Support was also expressed for the proposed use of the CRF to continue providing Free School Meal (FSM) vouchers to eligible children during school holidays as a means of not only addressing child poverty but also in seeking to alleviate food insecurity and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11.

This report seeks Cabinet’s approval to Brent Council’s new Procurement Strategy 2026 – 2030.  The Strategy sets out the guiding principles and priorities for procurement activity in Brent, and how the Council will use its spending power to deliver value for Brent’s residents and communities.

Cabinet RESOLVED to approve the Procurement Strategy 2026 – 2030 as detailed within the report.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Rubin (as Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Community Power) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Service Reform and Strategy seeking approval for Brent's new Procurement Strategy 2026-2030 setting out the guiding principles and priorities for procurement activity in Brent, and how the Council would use its spending power to deliver value for Brent’s residents and communities.

In presenting the report, Councillor Rubin advised that the strategy recognised the importance of procurement not simply as a transactional exercise but as a means of using the Council's spending power to deliver not only value of money but also wider benefits for residents and communities including the support of community wealth building and strengthening of local supply chains to ensure that businesses benefiting from public contracts were also positively contributing to the borough. 

In highlighting the three core pillars around which the strategy had been built as community wealth building, effective contract management and strengthening the Council’s commercial capability, members were also advised of the specific emphasis also being placed on the role of procurement in supporting local supply chains, fair employment practices and environmental sustainability in order to ensure public finances were being utilised as effectively and responsibly as possible given the current financial pressures being experienced.

In welcoming and supporting the wider approach underpinning the strategy in terms the delivery of social value and community wealth building, members were also keen to recognise the way it had been designed to respond to the feedback and recommendations within the LGA’s Corporate Peer Challenge relating to development of the Council’s commissioning, procurement and contract management arrangements enabling the authority to take a more strategic, market aware and forward thinking approach in seeking to drive efficiencies and deliver value for residents alongside broader social, environmental and economic benefits.  Support was also expressed for the way in which the Strategy had been designed to embed the Council’s Good Work Standard as well as support the development of further opportunities to build on and strengthen fair employment and business practices whilst also seeking to deliver broader social value and increase local economic participation and resilience, working in partnership with local suppliers, SMEs, the Voluntary & Community Sector and social enterprises as part of the circular economy to strengthen local communities and support wider community cohesion and inclusive growth.

The Strategy was also welcomed from a regeneration perspective, with members noting the importance in ensuring that the contractors and partners involved in the delivery of major development projects across the borough were able to deliver real benefits for local people through jobs, apprenticeships, local supply chains and sustainable development in order to ensure that regeneration in Brent remained inclusive and continued to deliver lasting value for residents.  Members also commended the support embedded within the strategy towards the Council’s wider environmental and sustainability objectives including use of supply chains to deliver goods and services in low carbon and environmentally sustainable ways, reducing waste and promoting biodiversity and in support of the Council’s wider strategic  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

The purpose of this report is to set out the Council’s performance position for Q3 2025-26, using the Borough Plan performance scorecard.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the Borough Plan 2025-26 performance reporting for Q3 as set out in section 3 and Appendix A of the report.

(2)    To note the current and future strategic risks associated with the information provided and agree the remedial actions on strategic risks identified as appropriate alongside the challenge on progress being provided with responsible officers as necessary.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Rubin (as Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Community Power) introduced a report from the Corporate Director of Service Reform & Strategy, which provided Cabinet with an overview of corporate performance in Quarter 3 2025-26.

In presenting the report, Cabinet noted that the performance monitoring update provided a detailed assessment against the full suite of Key Performance Indicators developed to monitor delivery of the desired outcomes and corporate priorities within the Borough Plan 2023-2027.  In terms of a brief overview, members attention was drawn to the 60 Borough Plan key indicators included within the performance scorecard of which 52% had been identified as green (on or above target) demonstrating what was felt to represent progress and a stable performance culture designed to deliver real improvements for residents.

In recognising the efforts outlined within the report to focus on performance in the delivery of key services and priorities within the context of the wider financial and demand led challenges faced by services across the Council, specific reference was made to the positive performance achieved over the latest monitoring period in relation to a number of targets.  These included a number of areas of progress, particularly in relation to climate action, including the reduction of the Council's own carbon emissions by more than 70% since 2010, expanded recycling services, proportion of borough schools with a School Street scheme and performance in relation to the investigation and enforcement against fly-tipping, supported through the Don’t Mess with Brent campaign.

Whilst keen to acknowledge the achievements and overall direction of travel outlined, it was also recognised that there were areas in which the need for improvement had been identified with the Council committed to addressing these challenges having also noted the continuing pressures facing key services, particularly in relation to housing and social care, and the need to keep strategic risks and remedial actions under review.

In considering the report, members welcomed the performance data provided as a means of providing a clear foundation for action and as a basis for the effective targeting of resources and focus for improvement of services.  Highlighting the open and transparent nature of the report and opportunity provided to ensure work continued to be undertaken jointly by Cabinet Members with their relevant Corporate Directors in seeking to manage delivery of the highest standards of service, whilst also seeking to mitigate against the financial challenges and strategic risks identified as part of the overall approach towards supporting local residents and in support of the priorities within the Borough Plan, Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To note the Borough Plan 2025-26 performance reporting for Q3 as set out in section 3 and Appendix A of the report.

(2)    To note the current and future strategic risks associated with the information provided and agree the remedial actions on strategic risks identified as appropriate alongside the challenge on progress being provided with responsible officers as necessary.

This report seeks approval to the direct award of a contract in respect of the Children’s Public Health Services (0-19 years), Health Visiting and School Nursing, which also includes the child weight management service for children aged 0-5 years.

Cabinet RESOLVED to approve the direct award of a contract under the Provider Selection Regime Direct Award Process C to Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust for the provision of the Children’s Public Health Services (0-19 years) Health Visiting and School Nursing for 23 months commencing 1 May 2026 to 31^st March 2028.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Nerva (as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Leisure) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Service Reform and Strategy seeking approval to the direct award of a contract for Brent's Children's Public Health Services (0-19 years), including health visiting, school nursing, the nationally mandated Healthy Child Programme and the child weight management service for children aged 0-5 years.

In introducing the report, Councillor Nerva highlighted the importance of the service as a vital early intervention and prevention offer supporting families from pregnancy through the school years delivered through Family Wellbeing Centres covering health visiting, school nursing, the nationally mandated Healthy Child Programme, plus locally specified services.  In terms of the recommended award of contract, members were advised the proposal involved a direct award to Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust, as the existing provider, with members advised of their strong and improved performance based on the scale of service provided across Brent, where it was noted that around 3,500 babies were born each year and child health review contact rates up to age five reflected significant improvement between 90% and 98%.  The scale of this reach was identified as important in terms of identifying issues at an early stage and in supporting the continued provision of targeted care.

In support of the approach outlined, members were also advised of the targeted work undertaken by the service in seeking to tackle inequalities.  Alongside the universal offer, this included targeted programmes for families facing the greatest challenges such as the MECSH (Maternal Early Childhood Sustained Home-visiting) programme, which provided sustained home visiting for mothers and babies designed to improve school readiness and child development with Brent recognised as one of only two local authorities in the UK delivering the Infant 2 School pathway.

In recognising the way in which the award of contract would also provide time to review the service in light of wider changes within the NHS and neighbourhood working arrangements, the opportunity was also taken to thank officers and Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust for their work in support of ongoing delivery of the service and commitment towards the procurement process.

In support of the approach outlined, members were keen to recognise the crucial nature of the service being provided and role of health visitors and school nursing given the diverse needs of individuals, families and communities and as part of the wider public health approach towards tackling health inequalities and in ensuring children had the best chance to thrive and parents were also provided with the support needed.  In acknowledging the enhanced level of performance identified, support was also expressed for the new pathway identified in relation to hearing screening for those children born outside the UK alongside any child developing a hearing problem and work to support children and their families placed in temporary accommodation.

Having noted the utilisation of ring fenced funding to support the service provided through the Public Health Grant and way in which the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

Members are asked to note that, following publication of the agenda, this report has now been withdrawn from consideration at the meeting.

(Notice about withdrawal of the report provided on 4 March 2026)

This item was withdrawn in advance of the meeting for consideration on the agenda.

Cabinet noted that this item had been withdrawn in advance of the meeting.

This report seeks approval for a delegation to the Corporate Director, Neighbourhood & Regeneration, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement, to authorise the award of contracts for the transportation and reprocessing of co-mingled and paper and card recycling materials.

Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Neighbourhood & Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement to authorise the West London Waste Authority (WLWA) to award the following contracts:

(a)    award the contract for Lot 1 for the Transportation and Reprocessing of Co-mingled Recycling Materials for an initial term of three (3) years, with the option to extend for up to four (4) additional years, exercised in two (2) extension periods of two (2) years each (on a 3+2+2 basis).

(b)    award the contract for Lot 2 for Reprocessing of Paper & Card for an initial term of three (3) years, with the option to extend for up to four (4) additional years, exercised in two (2) extension periods of two (2) years each (on a 3+2+2 basis).

(2)    To note that a Memorandum of Understanding with the West London Waste Authority and the London Borough of Ealing would be entered into to cover the respective obligations of the parties in relation to the contractual arrangements and processing of payments.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Krupa Sheth (as Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods and Regeneration seeking approval to delegate authority to authorise the award of contracts for the transportation and reprocessing of co-mingled and paper and card recycling materials.

In presenting the report, Councillor Krupa Sheth advised that the new arrangements would cover around 40,000 tonnes of mixed recyclables collected across Brent and Ealing, together with around 4,500 tonnes of paper and card from Brent with members reminded of the importance in ensuring those materials were transported, sorted and processed efficiently in order to maximise recycling rates, minimise waste sent to landfill.  In addition, the opportunity was taken to highlight the value of the service generated in terms of the sale of recyclable materials, particularly paper and card, which was expected to generate around £250,000 per year in income for Brent also helping to support the sustainability of the service.

In noting the important role played by residents across the borough in terms of recycling and waste reduction, members were advised of the way in which the recommended approach outlined in relation to award of the contract, working jointly with the West London Waste Authority and the London Borough of Ealing, had been designed to ensure that the arrangements not only remained robust, efficient and fit for the future but also secured strong value for money and provided access to shared expertise in ensuring that recycling materials continued to be process in the most effective and environmentally responsible way possible.

In welcoming the way in which it was felt the contract had been designed to ensure Brent was able to continue delivering a reliable recycling service while supporting the Council’s wider environmental ambitions Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Neighbourhood & Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement to authorise the West London Waste Authority (WLWA) to award the following contracts:

(a)    award the contract for Lot 1 for the Transportation and Reprocessing of Co-mingled Recycling Materials for an initial term of three (3) years, with the option to extend for up to four (4) additional years, exercised in two (2) extension periods of two (2) years each (on a 3+2+2 basis).

(b)    award the contract for Lot 2 for Reprocessing of Paper & Card for an initial term of three (3) years, with the option to extend for up to four (4) additional years, exercised in two (2) extension periods of two (2) years each (on a 3+2+2 basis).

(2)    To note that a Memorandum of Understanding with the West London Waste Authority and the London Borough of Ealing would be entered into to cover the respective obligations of the parties in relation to the contractual arrangements and processing of payments.

This report seeks approval to the award of a contract for the purchase and management of future bike hangars/nests and the management and maintenance of our current bike hangars/nests.

Cabinet RESOLVED to approve the award of a contract for the purchase and management of future bike hangars/nests and the management and maintenance of our current bike hangars/nests to Lock It Safe Ltd for an initial contract period of five (5) years, with an option to extend for up to a further two (2) years on an annual basis in the estimated sum of £1,500,000.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 16 March 2026

Councillor Krupa Sheth (as Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement) introduced a report from the Corporate Director Neighbourhoods and Regeneration seeking approval to the award of a contract for the purchase and management of future bike hangars and nests, together with the management and maintenance of existing facilities.

In introducing the report, Councillor Krupa Sheth highlighted the progress made in encouraging more sustainable and active travel along with the expansion of secure cycle parking (recognised as an important part in the process) with 459 bike hangars having been installed to date across Brent significantly exceeding original targets and reflecting the strong demand continuing to be demonstrated by residents for safe and secure cycle storage particularly by those living in flats or homes without secure storage space.  Recognising the value of the new contract in enabling the Council to continue building on the progress identified, members were advised of the way in which it would support the continued rollout of secure cycle parking across Brent, including the installation of over 100 additional bike hangars in the initial phase, alongside the maintenance and management of existing facilities in a way designed to support and encourage cycling as a more active and sustainable form of travel.

Having commending and welcomed the joined up nature of the approach outlined within the report, members were keen to recognise the wider community benefits which it was felt increased access to secure cycle parking would provide not only in terms of recognising the different types of tenure across the borough but also in encouraging a shift towards cycling as a more active and sustainable form of travel, reducing congestion, improving air quality and encouraging healthier lifestyles given the associated health and wellbeing benefits identified and contribution towards the borough’s climate and environmental commitments and in seeking to reduce transport inequality.

On this basis, having considered the report and also noted the ongoing work with Transport for London to expand and support investment in the cycling highway infrastructure between Wembley and Harlesden, Cabinet RESOLVED to approve the award of a contract for the purchase and management of future bike hangars/nests and the management and maintenance of our current bike hangars/nests to Lock It Safe Ltd for an initial contract period of five (5) years, with an option to extend for up to a further two (2) years on an annual basis in the estimated sum of £1,500,000.

The following items are not for publication as they relate to the category of exempt information set out below, as specified under Part 1, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972:

Agenda Item 8:        i4B Business Plan 2024–25 Appendix 1(a) (Business Plan – Financial Appendix and Annexes 1- 3)

These appendices has been classified as exempt under Paragraph 3 of Part 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, namely: “Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)"

Agenda Item 9:        FWH Business Plan 2024-25 – Appendix 1(a) (Business Plan – Financial Appendix and Annex)

These appendices has been classified as exempt under Paragraph 3 of Part 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, namely: “Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)"

Agenda Item 17:      Authority to Award Contract for Secure Cycle Parking - Bike Hangers & Nests – Appendix 1 (List of Tenderers)

This appendix has been classified as exempt under Paragraph 3 of Part 1 Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, namely: “Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information)"

There were no items that required the exclusion of the press or public.

There were no items that required the exclusion of the press or public.

Notice of items to be raised under this heading must be given in writing to the Deputy Director Democratic & Corporate Governance or their representative before the meeting in accordance with Standing Order 60.

There were no items of urgent business.

There were no items of urgent business.