Leader's update - Friday 24 October 2025
Published: 24 October 2025
First, I want to once again wish a very happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas to everyone celebrating this week across Redbridge. Thank you to the local organisations and volunteers who make these celebrations so special and inclusive. It has been an absolute pleasure to attend events around the borough.
This week has been a significant one for Redbridge, as we launched our new Family Help Pre/Post Birth service alongside Wes Streeting MP and partners from across health and community organisations. This service will provide vital support for parents before and after birth, ensuring families have access to advice, care, and practical help when they need it most. It’s part of our wider commitment to give every child the best start in life.
That commitment was strengthened by the government’s recent announcement to roll out free breakfast clubs and require schools to limit branded uniform items from next September. I’m hugely encouraged by this announcement — these changes will save families hundreds of pounds and help ensure children start the day ready to learn. On top of the £170,000 we secured last week to open a Best Start Family Hub, we’ll be working closely with schools and the government to deliver these measures locally. Together, these steps will make a real difference for families in Redbridge.
I’ve also had important meetings with officers this week to discuss housing and regeneration. These conversations are crucial as we plan for the future of Redbridge — creating more affordable homes, improving our neighbourhoods, and ensuring that growth benefits everyone. Housing remains one of the biggest challenges facing our residents, and we’re determined to deliver solutions that make a real difference.
As autumn sets in, a quick reminder that green garden waste collections are ending for the year and will return in spring. Please check your final collection date so you don’t miss it. And in another step towards sustainability, we’re introducing a food waste recycling pilot in selected areas of the borough. If you’re part of the pilot, you’ll receive information and a caddy soon. This is an exciting move to reduce waste and cut carbon emissions.
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 vigilance helps us act quickly and keep Redbridge clean and safe.
Wishing you all a great weekend!
