The Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee met to discuss the Corporate Equalities Update and progress on tackling domestic violence and violence against women and girls (VAWG). Key decisions included noting the progress on the Single Equalities Framework and the ongoing work to improve representation and accessibility within the council and the borough.

Corporate Equalities Update

The committee received an update on the Council's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, focusing on the Single Equalities Framework (SEF) 2024-2028. This framework aims to embed equality in decision-making and service delivery, with five priority areas: improving workforce representation, making the borough more accessible, increasing quality of life by tackling preventable illnesses, embedding intersectionality in decision-making, and enhancing resident engagement and co-production.

Progress on the SEF includes positive movements in workforce representation, with continued strong representation of women and Black staff, and an improved disability pay gap. Initiatives to improve accessibility involve updating websites and communications to meet accessibility standards, and improving accessibility in council-run buildings and housing. Public health campaigns and social prescribing are being expanded to tackle preventable illnesses, and health and housing coordinator roles are being extended to support residents with complex needs. The council is also committed to embedding intersectionality in decision-making through Equality Impact Assessments (EIAs) and has signed the Unison Anti-Racism Charter. Resident engagement is being enhanced through various community initiatives and targeted co-production with groups such as disabled residents.

An internal audit is underway to examine the council's approach to diversity and equality, focusing on resident-facing responsibilities such as accessibility, decision-making processes, and resident engagement. The audit aims to provide assurance that the council is effectively fulfilling its obligations under the Public Sector Equality Duty. Findings are due to be presented to the Audit and Risk Committee in March 2026.

Other developments include the co-production of a disabled people's user-led organisation, following recommendations from the Lewisham Disabled People's Commission report. A legislative theatre project, What does it mean to care? , was also held, inviting audiences to engage with real-life stories and propose solutions. The governance arrangements of the Corporate Equalities Board are being reviewed, and a new Corporate Equalities Lead has been appointed to provide strategic leadership and expert advice on equalities across the organisation.

Domestic Violence and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)

The committee received an overview of the Safer Communities Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) service provision and delivery. The report highlighted that in the 12 months to November 2025, 3,976 domestic abuse-related criminal offences were recorded in Lewisham, a 9.4% increase compared to the previous year, placing Lewisham third highest in London for this crime rate. Bellingham ward has the highest rate in Lewisham and ranks third highest in London. VAWG-related crimes have shown a consistent increase over the past four years, with a 16% year-on-year rise.

The Athena service, which provides support to individuals experiencing gender-based violence, reported an 18% increase in referrals in the year ending September 2025. Domestic abuse remains a leading cause of homelessness in the borough, ranking as the fourth highest reason for presentations. The Sanctuary Scheme, designed to help survivors remain safely in their homes, is in its second year.

The report also detailed the findings of a qualitative survey in Bellingham ward, which consistently shows high rates of domestic abuse. Contributing factors identified include high deprivation, overcrowding, anti-social behaviour, and substance misuse. The survey also highlighted that women are overwhelmingly the primary victims, with lower-income families and socially isolated women being particularly at risk. Effective support systems include health visitors, specialist DV health visitors, safeguarding teams, and family hubs. Suggested improvements include enhanced professional collaboration, community education, early intervention, and improved access to safe housing.

The Male Allyship Workshops, funded by the Safer Streets 5 Project, aimed to engage men in tackling VAWG. However, attendance was significantly below target, leading to the decision not to pursue further workshops due to a lack of sustained interest and commitment.

Case studies of Maria and Ruth illustrated the impact of domestic abuse and the importance of support services. Maria, who experienced emotional abuse, coercive control, and stalking, learned that domestic abuse encompasses more than just physical harm. Ruth received crucial support from her Housing Officer, who helped her develop a safety plan and secure refuge accommodation.

Select Committee Work Programme

The committee reviewed its work programme for the upcoming year. Items scheduled for the next meeting include an update on the implementation of the Disabled People's Commission, a discussion on becoming an age-friendly council, and a policing update. The committee also reviewed the forward plan of key decisions to identify any items requiring further scrutiny.