The Cabinet of Barking and Dagenham Council met on Tuesday 14 July 2026, approving a new overarching framework for organisational transformation, A Better B&D , and endorsing a strategy to ensure sufficient high-quality placements and support for looked-after children. The meeting also noted the latest performance report on the Corporate Plan 2023-2026.

A Better B&D: Change Strategy and Plan

The Cabinet approved the A Better B&D Change Strategy and Plan, which will serve as the Council's overarching framework for transformation over the next three years. This strategy aims to address the challenges of rising demand, financial pressures, and increasing complexity by focusing on three key shifts: from reaction to prevention, from complexity to simplicity, and from surviving to thriving. The plan will guide the development and delivery of a portfolio of programmes designed to achieve better outcomes for residents and ensure financial sustainability. The decision-making arrangements for funding have been delegated to the Strategic Director of Resources, supported by the Change Board.

Looked After Children Sufficiency Strategy 2026-2030

The Cabinet approved the Council's Looked After Children Sufficiency Strategy 2026-2030. This comprehensive document outlines the Council's plan to meet its legal duty to provide sufficient, high-quality placements and support for looked-after children and those at risk of entering care. The strategy addresses key challenges, including a reliance on high-cost external placements and a shortage of specialist foster carers. It details plans to develop local residential provision, including three new children's homes, and a joint venture with the NHS for a crisis centre. The strategy also highlights the importance of prevention, family help, and supporting care leavers, with a commitment to reviewing and updating the plan throughout its lifespan.

Corporate Plan 2023-2026: Outcomes Framework Performance Report Q3 and Q4 2025/26

The Cabinet noted the report on the Corporate Plan 2023-2026, which provided an update on the 54 outcome measures for the third and fourth quarters of the 2025/2026 financial year. The report highlighted areas of strong performance improvement alongside ongoing challenges. Key areas discussed included the ongoing efforts to support residents through the cost-of-living crisis, with initiatives like the Fair Futures Board and the Homes and Money Hub providing financial assistance and advice. The report also touched upon performance in children's social care, noting a reduction in re-referrals and child protection plans, but also highlighting the increasing complexity of need and the challenges in securing stable placements. The Corporate Plan's progress was presented with a RAG rating system, indicating areas requiring further attention.