Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services concerning a progress report follows on from the previous co-production paper submitted to the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Sub-Committee in December 2024.

Officers presented an update on the Co-Production Service delivered by Groundswell and Mayday, funded until March 2026. The service supports embedding lived experience in service design and delivery, with progress made through advisory groups, champions, and leadership workshops. It builds on the City Voices research and now works alongside other commissioned services.

The Deputy Chair raised a question on the impact of the service. Officers noted that while change has been gradual, co-production is now embedded in strategic commissioning, with recent work extending to women’s services in North East London. A Member highlighted the need for more direct service user involvement, especially for complex cases. Officers clarified that while the service supports providers to build this capacity, direct engagement sits with commissioned services.

A Member also raised concerns about the focus on move-on accommodation. Officers responded that while aspirations are important, the challenge lies in creating the right conditions for change.

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.