Leader's update - Friday 14 November 2025

Published: 14 November 2025 Cllr Kam Rai

On Tuesday, the final Remembrance Services were held in the borough at Fairlop Waters and Snaresbrook. I was delighted to see how many people were able to join us this year to honour the brave service personnel who made immense sacrifices for us all.

At Cabinet last night, we agreed our rough sleeping and homelessness strategy to help tackle the housing crisis and support people in securing permanent homes. The strategy sets out a comprehensive five-year plan to prevent homelessness, reduce rough sleeping, and improve housing outcomes for residents. It responds to rising demand for housing support and the financial pressures linked to temporary accommodation.

Tomorrow (Saturday 15 November), we’re holding our third Community Action Day outside Fullwell Cross Library from 10am to 12.30pm. These action days bring the council directly to the community, offering everyone the chance to speak with councillors, the police, and council officers. You’re warmly invited to come along, get a health check on the Redbridge Healthy Bus, or seek advice from our benefits team. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

Next week, we kick off our Christmas Light Switch-On events at George Green, Wanstead. Other events will follow in Hainault, Valentines Mansion, Seven Kings, Barkingside, and Ilford Town Centre—where I’m sure the Ilford BID will deliver another fantastic display. Further information about each event can be found on our Discover Redbridge website. It would be wonderful to see as many of you as possible at these celebrations.

A gentle reminder that my official Christmas card competition for children aged up to 11 is still open. The deadline is Wednesday 26 November. For more details, please visit the our webpage.

Finally, thank you to everyone who continues to report issues through the Love Clean Streets app and our website. Whether it’s fly-tipping, graffiti, or overgrown trees, your reports help us respond quickly and keep Redbridge clean and safe.

Wishing you all a great weekend!