The Wandsworth Council cabinet met to discuss a range of issues, including the Access for All programme, procurement of integrated sexual health services, public space protection orders, and financial matters. The cabinet approved the procurement strategy for a new integrated sexual health service, the extension of the existing Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), and a new PSPO for dog control. They also approved the council's medium term financial strategy and additions to the general fund capital programme.

Access for All Programme Update

Councillor Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment, reported on the success of the Access for All programme, noting over 6,500 sign-ups since its April launch. The scheme provides eligible residents with discounts on council services and partner offers related to leisure, wellbeing, and culture. Councillor White noted that the Local Government Association (LGA) recognised the scheme as an innovative piece of thought leadership.

One cabinet member asked about the potential for more private sector partners to join the scheme, and Councillor White responded that he expected more to come on board as they realise the benefits of providing access to those who might not otherwise use their services.

Procurement of Integrated Sexual Health Service

The cabinet approved the procurement strategy for a new integrated sexual health service in partnership with Richmond, Merton, and Sutton councils. Councillor Graeme Henderson, Cabinet Member for Health, explained that this procurement represents a substantially different, more collaborative approach for Wandsworth, using the most appropriate provider available. The new contract is due to commence on 1 October 2026, for an initial term of up to five and a half years, with an allowable extension of up to five years.

A cabinet member raised the issue of young renters not accessing local services and asked about preventative measures to target this demographic. Councillor Henderson responded that the strategy identifies this as a particular issue and that the aim is to develop more localised services, working with local partners to ensure they can reach younger people more effectively.

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO)

The cabinet approved the extension of the existing borough-wide PSPO and a new PSPO for dog control. Councillor Henderson explained that the decision was made to separate the two elements for pragmatic and legal reasons, as the dog control PSPO had attracted a wide disparity of comments during consultation. The existing PSPO, which addresses anti-social behaviour and psychoactive substances, will be extended for another three years.

A cabinet member asked about working with the police to ensure they use their powers to issue warnings or fixed penalty notices (FPNs), particularly in relation to nitrous oxide use. Councillor Henderson acknowledged that there are too many nitrous oxide capsules found in specific parts of the borough and that the council is working with the police to ensure effective enforcement. He also noted that the government is bringing forward proposals to increase the penalties for contravening PSPOs to £500, which would act as a greater deterrent.

Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report

Councillor Henderson introduced the Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report, noting that it is a multi-agency partnership that ensures safeguarding practices are well-coordinated and responsive. He was pleased to report that the recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment of adult social care recognised that Wandsworth has very strong and effective safeguarding arrangements. The cabinet agreed to approve their approach moving forward.

Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS)

Councillor Angela Ireland, Cabinet Member for Finance, presented the MTFS, highlighting Wandsworth's sound financial management, high reserves, and low debt, which allows the council to deliver the lowest council tax in the country and invest in residents' priorities. She also noted that the council continues to invest in schools, transport networks, and community facilities without adding to the council tax, thanks to funds collected from property developers. The cabinet approved the council's medium term financial strategy and the allocation of £1.9 million of the existing financial resilience reserve to establish a new transformation programme.

A cabinet member asked about the change programme mentioned in the report and requested examples of its impact. Councillor Ireland responded with examples from environmental services, leisure, procurement strategy, and the waste programme. The cabinet member requested a report from officers on all 35 projects within the change programme to assess their impact before moving on to the next stage.

General Fund Capital Programme

Councillor Ireland presented the report on the general fund capital programme, outlining an ambitious programme that includes proposals for a committed capital programme of £262 million and a development pool of £162 million. She emphasised the council's commitment to investing in communities and making the borough a more attractive place, with over 50% of the capital programme being funded by developers. The cabinet approved the additions to the general capital fund program, recommended that the council adopt the capital program, and recommended that the council approve the updated use of capital receipts strategy.

A cabinet member asked where the money was being spent, and Councillor Ireland responded with several examples, including the Winstanley York Road Place programme, neighbourhood renewal fund projects, the Clapham Junction master plan, and the Falcon Road underpass. Another cabinet member highlighted the relationship between improvements to housing stock and the placemaking programme, noting that the council is using the general fund capital programme to match and build on the work that the housing revenue account is doing in building new homes.

Quarter 1 Financial Monitoring 2025/26

Councillor Ireland presented the budget monitoring paper for quarter one, noting that there are budgetary pressures on the council, which is common among councils in London and across the country. She stated that the council is still seeing increasing demand for services and that the cost of providing those services continues to grow. The cabinet noted the paper.

A cabinet member thanked children's services officers for managing to keep their budget within forecast, despite incredible pressures. They also noted the increasing pressures on schools, particularly in relation to children with special needs and disabilities, and expressed hope for government support.

Budget Variations

Councillor Ireland presented the final paper, requesting approval of the changes referred to in one of the previous papers, the capital program review of £232 million. The cabinet approved the budget variations.

A cabinet member commented that this was the correct financial decision, stating that it is important to spend money on infrastructure so that gaps do not need to be plugged later on. They commended the paper and stated that it shows a council that is active and forward-thinking.