The Assembly meeting of Barking and Dagenham Council was held on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, and was marked by tributes to the late Councillor Glenda Paddle. Key decisions included the adoption of a new Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship Policy and noting the Local Safeguarding Adults' Board Annual Report.

Tributes to Councillor Glenda Paddle

The meeting began with a moment of deep regret and reflection on the passing of Councillor Glenda Paddle, who was also a Freewoman of the Borough. Councillor Paddle, who served as a councillor for Whalebone ward since May 2018, passed away on Wednesday, 13 November 2024. Tributes were led by the Leader of the Council, Councillor Dominic Twomey, who highlighted Councillor Paddle's dedication to her community and her role as Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Numerous councillors shared personal anecdotes and memories, emphasizing Councillor Paddle's passion for education, her work as a school governor for over 40 years at Furze Infant and Warren Junior Schools, and her commitment to public service. Mr G Wilder, Executive Head of Warren Junior School and Furze Infant School, spoke of Councillor Paddle's enduring legacy in the local education system. The Assembly observed a minute's silence in her memory.

Leader's Statement

Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, presented his statement, which touched upon several key areas:

• Government Budget: He discussed the recent Labour budget, describing it as a budget for growth aimed at addressing the economic challenges inherited from the previous government. He noted the increase in the national living wage and freezes on fuel duty and national insurance contributions, highlighting the ring-fenced funding for adult social care. The council's own local settlement from the government was anticipated in late December.
• Local Budget: Councillor Twomey acknowledged the significant funding gap faced by local government nationally and outlined the council's preparation for a balanced budget, which would involve difficult decisions and consultation with residents. He stressed that these decisions would not be made lightly.
• Three Markets of London: The Leader announced that the planned Three Markets of London project would not be proceeding in the borough. He expressed disappointment but urged stakeholders to remain positive, stating that the council would work closely with the City of London Corporation to ensure any alternative plans for the Dagenham Docks area would be beneficial for residents.
• Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs): New PSPOs had been implemented in Barking Town Centre, Heathway, and Gale Street, with the addition of sexual harassment (both verbal and physical) to the list of prohibited behaviours.
• Cost of Living Support: With colder weather approaching, Councillor Twomey emphasized the council's commitment to supporting residents struggling with heating bills and the cost of living crisis. He urged residents to reach out for help and highlighted the availability of various support schemes, including financial assistance for heating bills and signposting to food banks and warm spaces.
• Festive Events: Councillor Twomey informed the Assembly about upcoming festive events, including carol singing at CU London and Barking Town Square, and the new Winter Lights Parade organized by Creative Barking and Dagenham, featuring internationally acclaimed street theatre company Pictofacto.
• Staff Recognition: He concluded by thanking council staff for their hard work, particularly those who would be working over the festive period and those involved in gritting roads.

Appointments

Councillor Regina Rahman proposed, and Councillor Dominic Twomey seconded, the appointment of Councillor Dorothy Akwaboah as the new Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, following the sad passing of Councillor Paddle. The Assembly resolved to appoint Councillor Akwaboah to this role. Councillor Akwaboah accepted the position, expressing her hope to emulate Councillor Paddle's dedication.

Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship Policy

The Assembly adopted the revised Councillors Gifts, Hospitality and Sponsorship Policy. This policy, which aligns with an equivalent policy for employees, provides clear guidance on the registration and treatment of gifts, hospitality, and sponsorship offers received by councillors. The policy aims to ensure the council upholds the highest ethical standards and maintains public confidence.

Local Safeguarding Adults' Board Annual Report 2023/24

The Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care Integration presented the Local Safeguarding Adults' Board Annual Report for 2023/24. The report detailed the board's work, priorities, and achievements in protecting vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect. Key points from the report included:

• A decrease in the number of safeguarding concerns raised compared to previous years, with 1,318 concerns reported.
• The majority of concerns were raised by health services.
• 17% of concerns led to a Section 42 enquiry, which is lower than the national average.
• Neglect was the most common type of risk identified, with a significant increase in concerns occurring within individuals' own homes.
• The report highlighted the importance of partnership working between the local authority, police, and NHS, as well as other agencies.
• The board's priorities for the coming year include focusing on the voice of the community, addressing the impact of the cost of living crisis, tackling inequalities, and ensuring effective partnership working.

The Assembly resolved to note the report.