Anti-Poverty Strategy
Tower Hamlets is developing a new anti-poverty strategy based on a recent needs assessment, while Haringey Council approved funding for crisis support and benefit claim streamlining.
Tower Hamlets' Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed a report in September 2026 indicating up to 130,000 residents live in poverty, with high housing costs identified as a key driver. This Anti-Poverty Rapid Needs Assessment will form the foundation for the borough's new Anti-Poverty Strategy.
In July 2026, Haringey Council approved an interim policy for its Crisis and Resilience Fund, allocating funds to extend free school meal holiday vouchers and develop an online portal to simplify benefit claims. Redbridge Council adopted its Anti-Poverty Strategy in March 2026, aiming to ensure no area is deprived by 2040.
Key facts
- Up to 130,000 residents in Tower Hamlets are estimated to be living in poverty, as reported in September 2026. Source
- High housing costs were identified as the biggest driver of poverty in Tower Hamlets by a September 2026 assessment. Source
- Haringey Council approved an interim policy for its Crisis and Resilience Fund in July 2026. Source 1 Source 2
- Haringey Council allocated £30,000 for a streamlined online application form in July 2026. Source
- Redbridge Council adopted its Anti-Poverty Strategy in March 2026, aiming for no deprived areas by 2040. 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.