Leader's update - Friday 24 July 2026

Published: 24 July 2026

Dear neighbours,

This week has been another reminder of the strength of our communities and the difference that can be made when people come together.

On Wednesday, I was delighted to attend the Disability Festival in the Park. Thank you to the organisers and to everyone who worked so hard behind the scenes to make the day such a success. It was a fantastic day of fun, with music, entertainment, activities and opportunities for people to connect. What makes the festival so special is that it brings people together and is truly for everyone, whether you're disabled, a family member, carer, friend, neighbour, or simply someone who wants to be part of a great community event.

Too often, conversations about disability focus only on barriers. The festival was a chance to celebrate all that disabled people are and all that they contribute. Across Redbridge, disabled people are leaders, artists, performers, volunteers, campaigners, professionals, carers, neighbours and friends, making an enormous contribution to our borough every single day.

I also attended an event marking the first anniversary of the Get Britain Working Trailblazers programme. It’s a fantastic initiative, delivered through organisations including Local London and the Greater London Authority, that supports people to access employment opportunities. I was pleased to hear about the impact it is having across London, including here in Redbridge, where more than 300 residents have been helped into work through our Steps into Work programme. By providing training, employability support and tailored help, the programme is opening doors for people who may otherwise have struggled to find their way into employment.

This week also saw the launch of our new Ten by Ten programme. The aim is simple: to help every child in Redbridge enjoy ten enriching experiences before they reach the age of ten. From learning to ride a bike or swim, to visiting a museum, getting a library card, trying an instrument or exploring our wonderful open spaces, these experiences help children build confidence, discover new interests and create lasting memories. You can find everything you need to know in our Discover Redbridge booklet, currently being delivered to homes across the borough and packed with ideas for things to see and do this summer.

Finally, on Thursday I visited Box Up Crime and met its founder, Stephen Addison. Stephen is doing a fantastic job using sport to bring people together and create positive opportunities for local people. The organisation provides free boxing sessions for children alongside classes for people of all ages, helping residents stay active, build confidence and form new friendships. It was inspiring to see the impact the club is having, and I would like to thank Stephen and his team for the difference they are making in our communities.

As always, thank you to everyone who gives their time, energy and passion to making Redbridge such a special place to live.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Kam