The Cabinet of Havering Council met on Wednesday 18 September 2024, approving new policies on hate crime, domestic abuse, and anti-social behaviour, alongside a strategy for Special Educational Needs and Alternative Provision. The meeting also saw the approval of energy contracts for 2024-2028, the Council's Commercial Strategy, and the North East London Joint Sexual & Reproductive Health Strategy. A formal consultation on the Romford Masterplan was also agreed.

Romford Masterplan Formal Consultation

Cabinet agreed to publish the Draft Romford Masterplan and associated documents for a statutory public consultation period of at least six weeks, anticipated to begin in late September 2024. The documents to be published include the Final Consultation Draft Romford Masterplan, the Romford Masterplan Baseline Report and its Heritage Audit appendix, engagement summary reports from 2024 and 2019, a Health Impact Assessment, and a Findings of No Significant Effect Report. Councillor Graham Williamson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, presented the report. It was noted that a briefing with Romford Ward councillors was scheduled, and ongoing discussions could be facilitated through the Overview & Scrutiny Board.

Housing Services - Hate Crime Policy (2024)

The Cabinet approved the Housing Services Hate Crime Policy (2024). Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, presented the report, which outlines the council's stance on hate crime, defining its consequences for perpetrators and the support available for victims and witnesses. This policy is a requirement of the Housing Regulator and aligns with other council housing policies, including those on Domestic Abuse and Anti-Social Behaviour. Cabinet agreed that declaring and communicating the council's position on hate crime would benefit resident safety and the council's reputation.

Housing Services - Domestic Abuse Policy (2024)

A new Housing Services Domestic Abuse Policy (2024) was approved by Cabinet. Councillor Paul McGeary presented the policy, which defines domestic abuse, outlines legislative measures and council actions to address perpetrators, and details support for victims. The policy is a mandatory requirement from the Social Housing Regulator and complements existing policies on hate crime and anti-social behaviour. Cabinet agreed that clearly stating the council's position on domestic abuse would enhance resident safety and the council's reputation. The policy will be reviewed annually in line with legislation and the Housing Regulator's requirements.

Housing Anti-Social Behaviour Policy (2024)

Cabinet approved the Housing Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Policy (2024). Councillor Paul McGeary presented the policy, which fulfils the legal requirement for local housing authorities to prepare and publish ASB policies. The policy defines ASB as conduct causing harassment, alarm, or distress, or nuisance and annoyance related to residential premises. It sets out the council's approach to addressing ASB among its tenants and leaseholders, working with residents and partner organisations. This policy aligns with the council's Domestic Abuse and Hate Crime policies and is a standalone requirement from the Social Housing Regulator. Cabinet agreed that clearly communicating the council's position on ASB would benefit its reputation, by defining consequences for perpetrators and support for victims and witnesses.

SEND & Alternative Provision Strategy

The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Strategy was agreed by Cabinet. Councillor Oscar Ford, Cabinet Member for Children & Young People, presented the strategy, which outlines a five-year plan to improve services for children and young people with SEND and in AP across education, health, and social care. The strategy is organised around six priorities and aims to improve the lives of Havering families with SEND. It was noted that some proposed actions may require additional investment to be fulfilled and to meet statutory obligations. The strategy will be made publicly available.

Energy Contracts 2024-28 - Renewal

Cabinet approved the renewal of energy contracts for 2024-2028. Councillor Paul McGeary presented the report, which sought approval to use the LASER (Kent County Council) flexible Procurement Framework and award contracts for electricity and gas supply from April 2025. The approved contracts are with Npower for electricity and Corona Energy for gas, with an estimated combined value of £21.2 million over four years, and an option to extend for a further year. The contracts will cover the council's corporate buildings, street lighting, housing, and opting-in schools. Cabinet also approved the use of LASER's 'Price Certainty' energy buying strategy and its 'Procurement Only Service Option' (POSO).

Council's Commercial Strategy

The Council's Commercial Strategy for 2024-2029 was approved by Cabinet. Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of the Council, presented the strategy, which aims to consolidate the council's approach to commercial activities and enhance synergy among teams. The strategy is built upon four key priorities: Governance, Commercial Capability, Communication & Marketing, and Data & Technology. Cabinet approved the strategy and its accompanying Action Plan, and agreed to the resourcing of the Strategic and Operational Boards.

North East London Joint Sexual & Reproductive Health Strategy (2024 – 2029)

Cabinet approved and adopted the North East London Joint Sexual & Reproductive Health Strategy (2024-2029). Councillor Gillian Ford, Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, presented the strategy, which aims to ensure a high-quality, accessible, and equitable sexual and reproductive health service across North East London. The strategy supports the council's statutory responsibility for improving public health and delivering mandated sexual health services. Cabinet also approved the proposed governance arrangements under the Havering Place-based Partnership for the development and implementation of a local action plan. The strategy and proposed oversight arrangements had previously been endorsed by the Havering Health and Wellbeing Board in July 2024.