Lambeth Council has approved a revised members' allowances scheme, aiming to ensure public service remains accessible to individuals from all backgrounds. The decision was made during a council meeting on Monday, June 1, 2026.
The revised scheme was passed after amendments proposed by the Labour and Green Groups were carried. Councillor Natalie Kane, speaking for the Labour Group, emphasized the importance of allowances in enabling people with caring responsibilities, disabilities, or those from working-class backgrounds to serve as councillors. She highlighted statistics indicating a lack of diversity in local government and stressed that allowances help make public service sustainable for a wider range of individuals.
Councillor Kane cited figures showing that 92% of councillors were white, the average age of 60, 59% are male, 84% are straight, 16% are having long term health conditions and 40% of people are retired.
The Labour amendment to the members' allowances scheme was carried, and subsequently, the substantive motion, as amended, was also passed.
Further details on the council's decision can be found in the Public reports pack Monday 01-Jun-2026 19.00 Council.
