Inequalities
Councils are currently addressing funding disparities in special educational needs and persistent inequalities in health and employment.
Kingston's Schools Forum discussed on September 28, 2026, how the historical high-needs block formula creates significant inequalities in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) funding, leading to lower spend per pupil in Kingston compared to Sutton. Meanwhile, Kensington and Chelsea's Fairer Action Plan has completed 7.5 of 18 actions by September 2026, but a report highlighted persistent inequalities in health and employment across the borough.
Newham's Health and Wellbeing Board outlined plans in June 2026 to improve resident health outcomes, prioritising prevention and tackling inequality as fundamental to its work. This followed the Newham Residents Survey 2025, conducted between November and December 2025, which revealed widespread concerns about aging, financial stability, and persistent inequalities, with only 49% believing Newham was a good place to grow older.
Inequalities refer to disparities or unfair differences in opportunities or outcomes, particularly in terms of economic or social status. Councils are working to address these disparities across various sectors, including education, housing, and health, often through specific action plans and strategic initiatives aimed at improving fairness and inclusion for residents.
Key facts
- Kingston's Schools Forum discussed on September 28, 2026, that the SEND funding formula creates significant inequalities. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea's Fairer Action Plan has completed 7.5 out of 18 actions in its first year by September 2026. Source
- Brent Council's Health and Wellbeing Board will explore housing's impact on health outcomes, as discussed in August 2026. Source
- The Newham Residents Survey 2025 found only 49% of people believe Newham is a good place to grow older. Source
- Newham's Health and Wellbeing Board outlined plans to tackle inequality on June 29, 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.