early intervention
Councils are currently focusing on enhancing early intervention in children's services, including SEND support, and integrating preventative health and wellbeing initiatives.
Councils are enhancing support for children and families, with Southwark Council expanding inclusion hubs in secondary schools for SEND reform in October 2026. In September 2026, Wandsworth Council faced pressure in SEND services, while Redbridge Council's Cabinet approved a new Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy. Hackney Council also implemented its Families First Partnership Programme in September 2026, overhauling children's social care to prioritise early intervention, which means providing support at the earliest stage to prevent issues escalating.
Local authorities are also focusing on preventative health. Ealing Council approved a £60 million Better Care Fund plan for 2026/27 in September 2026, aiming for integrated and preventative health and social care. Havering Council agreed to review its mental wellbeing support services in September 2026. Kensington and Chelsea Council is investing in early intervention services for young people's mental health, addressing long waiting times, as discussed in July 2026.
Looking ahead, Brent Council's Cabinet approved the insourcing of Best Start Family Hubs support services from April 1, 2027, to create an integrated council-led Family Hub and Early Help model, decided in September 2026. This follows Waltham Forest Council's Cabinet approving a £75.8 million contract for children's health services in June 2026 to enhance early intervention and support for young people.
Key facts
- Southwark Council is expanding inclusion hubs in secondary schools as part of SEND reform. Source
- Wandsworth Council's Children's Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussed proposals to safeguard children's services amidst budget overspends. Source
- Redbridge Council's Cabinet approved the Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2026–2029. Source
- Ealing Council approved a £60 million Better Care Fund plan for the 2026/27 financial year. Source
- Hackney Council implemented its Families First Partnership Programme, establishing a neighbourhood-based Family Help service. Source 1 Source 2
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 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.