Tower Hamlets
Tower Hamlets Council is currently addressing a significant increase in the number of children in its care and the rising costs associated with their support.
A report presented to Tower Hamlets Council's Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee in November 2026 highlighted a substantial rise in children needing care. By March 2026, the number of children in the council's care had increased by a third in one year, reaching 307 youngsters. This increase comes as the cost of providing care continues to climb, with residential placements being particularly expensive.
The draft Corporate Parenting Board Annual Report for 2025/26 indicated that 32 children were living in residential homes, with an average weekly cost of approximately £7,000 for each child. This financial pressure is a key aspect of the ongoing discussions for Tower Hamlets Council as it manages its responsibilities for children in care.
Key facts
- By March 2026, 307 children were in the care of Tower Hamlets Council, a rise of a third in 12 months. Source
- The figure of 307 children in care was presented to the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee in November 2026. Source
- 32 children living in residential homes cost Tower Hamlets Council an average of around £7,000 a week each. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. 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 10 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.