Published: Monday, 17th July 2017

This is based on recommendations made by the Greenwich Fairness Commission.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich's Cabinet agreed on Wednesday (12 July) to take forward more than 60 recommendations from an independent commission set up to tackle poverty in the borough.

Recommendations by 'Greenwich: Our future together'

Chaired by Lord Kerslake, 'Greenwich: Our future together' has examined ways to make Greenwich a fairer place for all residents. It produced a final report with 61 recommendations to both the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the Government for tackling poverty and inequality.

The recommendations cover health, education, finance, housing and employment. They include a number of suggestions such as:

  • expanding the number of excellent nursery places in the borough
  • introducing extra support for students retaking GCSEs
  • a focus on mental health and well-being of young people in the borough
  • enabling more local businesses to deliver Council contracts
  • fostering even closer links with the local Jobcentre.

'Improve outcomes for the most disadvantaged residents'

Chair of the Greenwich Fairness Commission, Lord Kerslake, said: "I'm delighted that Royal Greenwich has adopted all of the recommendations in our report which sets a clear path to further tackling inequality in the borough. These are cost-effective methods that make use of existing powers and capacity and I look forward to seeing the action plan for their implementation.

"The recommendations are ultimately about how Greenwich can continue towards greater growth and prosperity. Through collaborative working, there is a great opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of residents across the Royal Borough and improve outcomes for the most disadvantaged Greenwich residents."

'Unwavering commitment to tackling inequality and poverty'

Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Councillor Denise Hyland, said "Our adopting of all 61 recommendations of the Fairness Commission's report demonstrates our unwavering commitment to tackling inequality and poverty across the borough.

"I would like to thank Lord Kerslake and all of the Commissioners for their tireless hard work over the last few months. We look forward to working together with partners and colleagues on an implementation action plan to improve the future of Royal Greenwich."

An action plan will now be created to implement the 61 recommendations. More information can be found on www.greenwichfairness.com.