Newham residents are expressing significant concerns about aging, financial stability, and persistent inequalities, according to findings from the Newham Residents Survey 2025. The survey, which involved face-to-face interviews with 1,523 residents conducted between November and December 2025, was offered in multiple languages and designed to be representative of the borough's population.

The survey revealed that only 49% of people believe Newham is a good place to grow older. This is a worrying statistic given projections indicate a 21% increase in the 65+ population by 2031, which will likely place increased demand on services such as healthcare, housing, and social care. Current projections show Newham's 65+ population is projected to grow by 6,300 residents (+21%) between 2026 and 2031 – the largest percentage increase of any age group in the borough.

Illustration of four elderly women with percentages and upward arrows, representing demographic trends or service improvements.
Demographic trends for older residents

Financial pressures are also a major worry, with 44% of residents reporting they are just getting by financially, and 4% admitting to skipping meals due to lack of money. This is particularly acute for social renters, who faced greater financial hardship and food insecurity.

Illustration depicting a person receiving food from a volunteer, with a text overlay indicating
Food insecurity in deprived boroughs

Disparities in experiences were highlighted across various demographic groups. Disabled residents were more likely to report loneliness, weaker support networks, financial difficulties, and lower life satisfaction. Black residents expressed less satisfaction with home safety and were more likely to report food insecurity and a lack of people to rely on.

Mayor Forhad Hussain, addressing the findings, emphasised that tackling inequality is central to his administration's priorities. Tackling inequality is not an additional piece of work. It is the work, he stated. The administration plans to support older and disabled individuals to live independently and prioritises prevention as much as treatment. A key aim is to bring care closer to people's homes, support stronger neighbourhood services, and reduce hospital admissions where possible.

A flowchart illustrating the patient journey through various healthcare and social care services, highlighting common issues and feedback from local people.
Patient journey and feedback on services

The Health and Wellbeing Board is expected to champion health equity, with every decision challenged by the questions: Who benefits? And who might still be missing out? This approach aligns with a vision for Newham to be a borough where residents can age well and where prevention is as important as treatment.

A graphic illustrating key areas where local people continue to struggle with health and care services, including telephone access, appointment availability, navigating services, and communication.
Areas where residents struggle with services

A chart illustrating that 62% of residents had a positive access experience, while 37% had a negative one, with service access being the weakest area of GP experience.
GP experience and service access

A diagram illustrating the shift from fragmented services to a neighbourhood approach in healthcare, emphasizing community-based care and prevention.
Shift to neighbourhood healthcare approach

A collage of diverse individuals, representing families, youth, and a young person in a meeting setting, symbolizing community health and wellbeing.
Community health and wellbeing

A circular graphic representing
Newham Circles of Support

Map of Newham showing percentage figures for different areas, indicating whether they are above or below the borough average, likely related to survey findings or health outcomes.
Newham borough map with percentage figures

Collage of images representing community engagement, healthcare services, and local landmarks in Newham.
Newham community and services