Lambeth Council is assessing its progress towards the goals outlined in the Lambeth 2030 plan, with the Cabinet reviewing performance against the Outcomes Framework at a meeting on Monday, 22 September 2025.
Councillor Claire Holland, Leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of the plan, stating that the council is striving towards becoming a borough of equity and justice by 2030.
The council faces severe financial pressures mainly due to rising demand for statutory services, a situation exacerbated by 14 years of structural underfunding, rising costs, and increased demand post-COVID, Brexit, and the cost of living crisis, contributing to a projected £20 million overspend this year.
The Outcomes Framework Performance Q1 202526 report indicated that 72% of targets were met in the first quarter of the year. Councillor Fred Cowell, Cabinet Member for Digital, Data and Resident Experience (job-share), noted a positive trend in temporary accommodation, which he described as the biggest source of financial pressure on the council
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Councillor Rezina Chowdhury, Deputy Leader of the Council (Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air), highlighted achievements in making Lambeth a greener borough. She reported that the curbside sustainability rate rose 10% above expectations, demonstrating that small changes in how streets are used can lead to significant environmental wins. The council also planted 1,895 new trees, exceeding its target. Councillor Chowdhury also noted significant increases in EV charging points and cycle hangers.
Councillor David Bridson, Cabinet Member for Healthier Communities (job-share), drew attention to positive indications in adult social care, noting that the council had exceeded targets across the board in advance of an upcoming inspection by the CQC. According to Councillor Bridson, these positive results sets the ground for really positive inspection when they do come and we've already set the ground running so far.
During the meeting, the Cabinet also reviewed the Quarter 1 Budget Monitoring Report. Councillor Holland acknowledged the severe financial pressures facing the council, including rising demand for statutory services and temporary accommodation. She mentioned that immediate financial actions are underway, including a council-wide transformation programme to deliver savings and improve efficiency. This programme includes measures such as reducing direct to post, which has already saved over £1 million, a recruitment freeze, ending non-essential spending, and reviewing capital investments. Opportunities to raise capital receipts are also being developed to support financial sustainability.
The Cabinet agreed to consider and comment on the latest performance update against the delivery of the outcomes framework. The next cabinet meeting is scheduled for 20 October.
