mental health social care services
Lewisham Council insourced its mental health social care services in September 2026, bringing social workers under direct council management.
Lewisham Council insourced its mental health social care services in September 2026, bringing the majority of mental health social workers under direct council management. This decision, made at a council meeting on September 23, 2026, means these services, which provide social support and care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, are now integrated within council-managed teams.
The move aims to improve resident experience and ensure more seamless care, according to the council. Councillor Samantha Gardiner, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, confirmed the change. Previously, these services were managed externally by an unnamed provider, with social workers based at inpatient units and community health services.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council insourced its mental health social care services on September 23, 2026. Source
- The insourcing brings mental health social workers under direct council management. Source
- Councillor Samantha Gardiner confirmed the change to insourced services. Source
- The move aims to improve resident experience and ensure more seamless care. Source
- Previously, these services were managed externally by an unnamed provider. 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.