Insourcing
Lewisham has insourced mental health social care, while Brent approved insourcing family support services.
Lewisham Council insourced its mental health social care services in September 2026, bringing social workers under direct council management to improve resident experience and care. Similarly, Brent Council's Cabinet approved insourcing most of its Best Start Family Hubs support services in September 2026, aiming for a fully integrated council-led model from April 2027, including Family Support Assistants and Early Years Workers.
Insourcing involves bringing services previously provided by external contractors back under direct council management. This practice is on the agenda for a Lewisham Mayor and Cabinet meeting in October 2026. Brent's insourcing of family support services is set to take effect from April 2027, following the end of its contract with Barnardo's Services Limited.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council officially insourced its mental health social care services in September 2026. Source
- Brent Council's Cabinet approved insourcing most of its Best Start Family Hubs support services in September 2026. Source
- Brent's insourcing of family support services is set to take effect from April 1, 2027. Source
- Lewisham's insourcing decision was announced at a Council meeting on September 23, 2026. Source
- Brent's insourcing will encompass Family Support Assistants, Early Years Workers, and creche provision. 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.