Department of Education (DfE)
Councils are currently discussing Department for Education funding for children's homes and its role in improving children's services.
In September 2026, Newham Council received a £1.680 million grant from the Department for Education to develop two new children's homes, covering approximately 45% of refurbishment costs. This decision, approved by Corporate Director Laura Eden, aims to address a shortage of local provision for children with complex needs. Also in September 2026, Hillingdon Council was appointed as a Children's Improvement Team provider, a role Councillor Susan O'Brien stated is part of the government's sector-led improvement approach for children's services.
The Department for Education is the UK government department responsible for child protection, child services, education, apprenticeships, and wider skills in England. Councils' efforts to provide sufficient, high-quality placements for children in care, such as Newham's new homes, fall under its broader remit.
Key facts
- Newham Council received a £1.680 million grant from the Department for Education in September 2026. Source
- The grant covers approximately 45% of refurbishment costs for two new children's homes in Newham. Source
- Hillingdon Council was appointed a Children's Improvement Team provider in September 2026. Source
- This appointment was announced during a Hillingdon Council meeting on September 24, 2026. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.