The Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee of Hackney Council met on Monday 07 September 2026 to approve the insourcing of specialist financial inclusion and debt support services, and the award of a concession contract for tennis facilities management. The committee also noted the minutes from previous meetings.

Insourcing of Financial Inclusion and Debt Support Services

The committee approved the insourcing of two key elements of the current Floating Support service: Debt Management and Financial Support (under the Here to Help service) and Employment Support for people with learning disabilities (as part of Hackney Works). This decision, which will be implemented from 1 February 2027 at a total annual cost of £0.52 million, aims to eliminate duplication with existing internal services, create a one-stop shop for residents managing council-related debt, and increase investment in employment support for neurodiverse residents. The move is expected to improve service efficiency and provide a more integrated and trauma-informed approach for residents. The council acknowledged the success of specialised support for the Orthodox Jewish (Charedi) community and intends to continue this via a separate procurement process. A smaller scope contract for external specialist providers to deliver floating housing support for residents with long-term enduring mental illness will also be procured.

Tennis Facilities Management and Community Tennis Development

The committee approved the award of a concession contract for the management, operation, and development of the council's public tennis facilities to Provider A. The contract, which will commence on 1 October 2026 for an initial period of five years with an option to extend for a further two years, aims to ensure the continued delivery of affordable, accessible, and high-quality tennis provision. Provider A, a Hackney-based charitable organisation, will reinvest operating surpluses into local tennis development, facility improvements, and programmes designed to increase participation, particularly among under-represented groups. The contract includes commitments to fair employment practices, including payment of at least the London Living Wage, and aims to increase school engagement and create local employment and volunteering opportunities. The estimated value of the concession over the seven-year term is £5.6 million (excluding VAT).

Noting Previous Minutes

The committee resolved to note the unrestricted minutes of the Hackney Procurement Board meeting held on 22 July 2026 and to confirm the unrestricted minutes of the Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee meeting held on 15 July 2026 as a true and accurate record of proceedings.