Islington Council convened on 4 December 2025 for a Council Meeting to address several critical issues, including inclusion, local government funding, and renters' rights. The council's decisions reflect its ongoing commitment to local needs and concerns.
Championing Inclusion for Every Child
Councillor Michelline Safi-Ngongo introduced a motion to champion inclusion for every child, emphasising the importance of support for children with special educational needs. Councillor Azuma seconded the motion, highlighting that every child should feel hope, not fear, when entering their school.
The motion was carried, committing the council to championing inclusion as a core value within its education system. Specifically, the council will:
- Share learning and best practices with other local authorities.
- Work with the Department for Education, the RISE team, and local partners to strengthen inclusive provision across early years and mainstream settings.
- Call on the Government to prioritise funding, training, and accountability measures that support inclusive education in every community.
An amendment to this motion, proposed by Councillor Benali Hamdache and seconded by Councillor Chikona, was defeated. The original motion was then carried.
Fair Funding Review for Local Government
Councillor Benali Hamdache also moved a motion regarding a truly fair funding review for local government, seconded by Councillor Ilkay Cinko-Oner. Councillor Hamdache emphasised the importance of local government as the level at which people directly experience the state. Councillor Williamson then proposed an amendment, seconded by Councillor Ward, which was subsequently carried. The amended motion was then carried.
The amendment proposed by Councillor Williamson acknowledged the government's response to the consultation, highlighting changes such as the use of the latest data for income deprivation affecting children, combining data on free school meals with universal credit data, and updating population projections. It also noted the government's commitment to putting an extra five billion pounds into local government and providing a multi-year settlement. The amendment changed the original motion by incorporating these acknowledgements and recognizing the cross-party work to get the best deal for Islington.
Standing Up for Renter's Rights
Councillor Hannah McHugh proposed a motion to stand up for renter's rights, which was seconded by Councillor Heather Staff. The motion, which was carried after an unsuccessful amendment, reaffirms the council's commitment to creating a fairer, safer, and more secure rental market.
The motion focuses on implementing and enforcing the new powers granted under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, including:
- Abolishing Section 21 evictions
- Applying the Decent Homes Standard
- Protecting against rental bidding and discrimination
The council will also work with local partners to raise awareness of new rights and protections and collaborate with the Government to ensure councils have the resources and enforcement powers needed to certify the success of the Act.
This meeting addressed a wide array of issues impacting Islington residents, reflecting the council's commitment to addressing local needs and concerns.
