Leader's message - Friday 17 October 2025
Published: 17 October 2025
First, I want to wish a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to everyone across Redbridge celebrating. These festivals remind us of the triumph of light over darkness and freedom over oppression – values that unite us all. Thank you to the local organisations and volunteers who make these celebrations so special and inclusive across our borough.
This week is also National Hate Crime Awareness Week. Redbridge stands firmly against hate in all its forms. Every resident deserves to feel safe and respected, and we will continue working with the police, schools, and community groups to challenge prejudice and protect those at risk. If you experience or witness hate crime, please report it to the police online or on 101, but always call 999 in an emergency.
We had a productive Cabinet meeting this week, discussing priorities for the months ahead, and I’ve attended a number of cross-London meetings representing Redbridge, sharing ideas and learning from other boroughs to strengthen our services.
On the national stage, the government has announced major investments to support families and tackle homelessness, and I’m proud to share what that means for Redbridge. We’ve secured £170,000 for a Best Start Family Hub right here in Redbridge, because we believe every child deserves the best start in life. This funding will help us expand family services, building on the proud legacy of Sure Start and putting support back at the heart of our communities. From free breakfast clubs to affordable childcare, these hubs will make a real difference for parents and children.
We’ve also received £215,000 to tackle homelessness. No one should be without a safe place to call home, and this funding will strengthen our work with partners to prevent homelessness and provide urgent support for those in need – including help for families in temporary accommodation with essentials like food, school travel, and laundry. This investment is part of the government’s wider Plan for Change, which includes record funding for early years education, expanding free school meals, and building the biggest increase in social and affordable housing in a generation. We’re breaking down barriers to opportunity so where you come from doesn’t determine where you end up.
It’s also Flood Awareness Week, and I want to highlight the steps we’re taking to protect homes and businesses from flooding. Following a successful trial in Seven Kings, we’ve rolled out Hydrorock flood defence technology to Hermon Hill and Wellesley Road in Wanstead Village – areas previously at risk. Acting like giant sponges beneath the road, these blocks absorb and slowly release rainwater, preventing sewers from being overwhelmed during heavy downpours. Combined with permeable paving and other sustainable drainage measures, these works mean Redbridge can now divert over 1.6 million litres of rainwater away from roads and homes. Over the next decade, we’ll invest more than £11 million in flood defence schemes to keep our borough safe and resilient.
Finally, a reminder that we’re conducting a new resident survey with DJS Research. It’s official, confidential, and helps shape local services. If you’re contacted, please take part, because your voice matters and we want to hear it.
Thank you for helping us keep Redbridge clean and safe. If you spot fly-tipping, graffiti, or other issues, please report them via the Love Clean Streets app or on our website. Quick reporting helps us act faster and maintain the high standards we all want to see.
Wishing you all a joyful weekend.
