Friday 10 November 2023
Havering Council is facing a funding crisis, and we're going to have to make some tough decisions that will affect you.
In this issue of Living, we will explain the financial issues that we face, highlight some of the proposals we may need to take, and ask you to take part in our consultation to help us to understand which services you value and how these proposals will impact you.
How did we get here?
Despite independent analysis which shows that we continue to be a low cost and effective Council, the funding crisis that we face has become even worse. Over the past year, you may have read that a number of other councils have effectively gone bankrupt as a result of their financial decisions that turned sour. We have taken no such risks with our finances.
The demand and type of services that we have to provide by law, such as Housing and Social Care for adults and children, has increased. Over 70 per cent of all our funds are used to provide these services.
Havering has the second oldest population in London meaning more pressure on adult social care. In last year’s census, whilst many London boroughs saw a decrease in their children’s population and were reducing school places, Havering had the fourth fastest growth in 0-14 year olds in the UK.
This change in our population has also meant that the cost of Social Care services has gone up much higher than inflation. We have also seen a big increase in the cost of providing accommodation for homeless families.
Added to that, the Revenue Support Grant we get from Central Government has gone down to under £2 million this year from £70 million back in 2010. The funding formula used to determine our grant from Central Government has not changed in the past decade, whilst our population has become much larger.
We have already made savings over the past 10 years or more of around £160 million, so future savings will be even more difficult. Even with the savings set out in our consultation, we will still need to find another £12 million in savings.
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 How can you help?
Havering Council has launched its budget consultation for 2024/25, asking for residents’ views on the Council’s spending proposals for the next year.
The list of proposed cuts and savings includes:
- Increasing parking charges
- Raising Council Tax and Business Rates
- Closing Romford Market on Sundays
- Stopping funding for all Christmas events, lights and decorations in town centres
- Exploring alternative waste collections
- Reviewing our libraries and Children’s centres
The consultation can be found on our website, or by following the link below. The page includes the full list of proposed changes, and how much money each one will save.
It will take you approximately 15 minutes to complete the survey online. You can also complete a paper version of the consultation at your local library, or at one of our public budget meetings (details below).
Please take some time to read through the proposed changes, and help us navigate this tough financial situation together.
Public meetings
 We are hosting several public meetings over the coming weeks, giving residents the chance to hear more about our financial challenges and get answers to any burning questions. In addition to the two sessions listed above, we will also be holding an online session - look out for more details in future issues of Living in Havering.
Spaces are limited, so you'll need to book your place online if you want to attend any of these sessions. You can book your place at the Town Hall meeting on Thursday 16 November now.
Havering Council joins hands with the NHS, voluntary sector partners and local organisations to launch ‘By Your Side’, a partner-led cost of living campaign to offer support to residents.
As inflation soars and energy costs surge, local residents continue to face mounting pressure amidst the cost of living crisis.
Havering Council is working with local communities, organisations and voluntary sector partners to direct residents to their Cost of Living Hub under the banner of Havering Helps, a wider cost of living support network.
This partnership-led campaign will help deliver support to struggling residents in a number of ways:
Pension Credits
The Council will send out letters to encourage eligible residents to apply for Pension Credits along with other support. The campaign uses existing administrative data to target those who may be eligible for further support without realising.
Warm Spaces
Working alongside voluntary, community and local organisations, the Council has set up a network of Warm Spaces across the borough.
These include libraries, leisure centres, community centres, and community hubs offering residents a warm welcome and will be free to use for anyone struggling to heat their home.
These events are being hosted by the Housing Resident Engagement Team and feature the Financial Inclusion team along with other Council services and external partners.
Energy Doctors
Havering Council continues to run its Energy Doctors service which is a free service for all Havering residents.
The service makes it easier for residents to save money on energy bills and get their homes ready for winter, by offering professional advice on energy efficiency and making small changes and repairs to their homes.
This can help residents save £209 per household per year on energy bills. This service is being provided in partnership with Age UK East London and is available to everyone living in Havering.
If you or someone you know is struggling to find support on cost of living, you can contact us directly via email, or call the Cost of Living helpline on 01708 432280.
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As part of the new partnership with Havering Council, Urbaser Ltd has taken on the street cleansing service, along with recycling and rubbish collections.
The street cleansing staff are supported by a fleet of vehicles, 12 of them electric (pictured), which will not only help in their day-to-day work but will assist towards improving air quality for residents and reducing noise.
With a heavy fall of leaves from trees at this time of the year, one of the main jobs is clearing leaves from the borough’s tree-lined streets and public spaces.
Teams are working hard manually clearing the leaves and are also using electric-powered leaf blowers.
Cleaning of town centres is carried out daily and Urbaser work to maintain Havering’s streets, against nationally recognised standards.
Urbaser will also be delivering weed control services, fly-tip clearance and cleaning of graffiti.
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The Havering Christmas Lights switch-on returns for another show-stopping event next Thursday (16 November), where headliners DJ Luck and MC Neat, will be performing their well-known 1999 hit ‘A Little Bit of Luck’.
Other performers include Rozalla, who will be taking to the stage with her 90s worldwide dance hit ‘Everybody's Free (To Feel Good)’, Razzamataz Theatre School, and vocalist Vivica Jade, who has featured on ‘The Voice’ and toured with Ed Sheeran, The Pussycat Dolls and JLS.
Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch will be treating audiences to a preview of ‘Dick Whittington’ their Christmas pantomime for this year (read more in What's Happening).
In addition to the entertainment, a mini fairground (fees apply) and well-known children's Christmas characters will add to the festivities.
This year’ switch on event is possible thanks to main sponsor Urbaser and support from Razzamataz Theatre Schools Romford, Hornchurch and Dagenham and Time107.5
The Havering Christmas Lights switch-on will be followed by various town centre Christmas events across the borough, starting with Elm Park on Friday 17 November, Hornchurch on Saturday 18 November and Upminster on Thursday 23 November. Further information can be found on the Council's website.
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 Urbaser, the Council's new waste and street-cleaning contractor, are the main sponsors for the event. We caught up with Urbaser about the Christmas lights event and what it means to them:
"At Urbaser, we understand the significance of fostering community spirit and the importance of shared experiences that bring joy and unity to the local area. The Christmas season is symbolic of warmth, giving, and collective celebration, and through our sponsorship, we aim to enhance these sentiments and contribute to the vibrancy of the community in Havering.
"Furthermore, Urbaser is dedicated to environmental services that are essential for maintaining a healthy, clean, and sustainable community. This event also allows us to share this commitment with the public, showcasing how celebrations and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand.
"We are proud to facilitate an event that not only brightens the town but also embodies the sustainability principles we stand for, by ensuring the festivities are as eco-friendly as possible."
The Romford event kicks off at 4:30pm, with a fireworks finale and the light switch-on at 7pm.
Last week, Council tenants moved into new homes at the St George’s Park site in Hornchurch.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of the Council, was joined by lead Cabinet Members and colleagues from Mercury Land Holdings (pictured), to welcome residents and view the new properties.
The 14 homes built for affordable rent are part of the wider block of one and two bedroom apartments, which also include 18 shared ownership and four homes for direct sale (leasehold).
The Council’s wholly owned development company, Mercury Land Holdings, project managed the delivery of the new homes in partnership with Bellway.
The homes are surrounded by green open space, but within easy access of the town centre and Hornchurch Station, providing easy access into London and surrounding areas.
This development will appeal to families, with good schools in the area, and for those taking their first steps on the property ladder.
The apartment block is named after Pilot Officer John Flewelling Soden, who was part of the 603 Squadron at RAF Hornchurch, and the road, Ratten Close, is named after John Richard Ratten, who commanded 453 Squadron and flew as part of the Hornchurch Wing during World War II.
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The hunt is again on to find our borough's top sporting stars, officials and helpers, as nominations open for the Havering Sports Council's Annual Awards.
There are eight categories available, covering a wide variety of sports competitors, or those involved in the wider arena of Havering sports.
The categories are:
- Junior Sports Competitor of the Year
- Sports Competitor of the Year
- Disability Sports Competitor of the Year
- Sports Volunteer of the Year
- Senior School Team of the Year
- Primary School Team of the Year
- Sports Club of the Year
- Peter Bruce Lifetime Achievement Award
The Peter Bruce award is given to a Havering resident who has given 15 years or more committed and dedicated service to sport in any capacity.
The awards will be presented at a special event at Upminster Golf Club on Monday 5 February. The event will be attended by Councillor Stephanie Nunn, Mayor of Havering, as well as other dignitaries & sponsors' representatives.
Winners of Junior Competitor, Competitor and Disability Competitor categories also each receive £200 award.
Find more information about these awards and submit your nominations on the Havering Sports Council website. Entries close Monday 8 January.
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Havering's ‘Warm Coats Initiative' is back at all libraries across the borough this autumn and winter. The initiative gives anyone the chance to pick up a warm coat for free.
We are asking for donations of warm, good-quality, undamaged and clean adult or children’s coats for us to give to those in need.
Please call your local library before bringing in your donations. Details can be found on the website.
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 The effects of flu and COVID-19 can be more serious if you are over 65 or have an existing health condition, so stay protected this winter with the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
If eligible, visit the free local winter vaccination centre at Harold Wood Library tomorrow, Saturday 11 November, 10am to 2pm.
 Wishing you all a bright and joyous Diwali from Havering Council.
 To submit events for possible inclusion in this section of the newsletter, please use the form on our website or send an email
Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch (QTH) is back with its annual pantomime, Dick Whittington.
Join plucky Dick Whittington and his trusty cat on their quest for fame and fortune. Arriving in London, disaster strikes, as the streets aren’t paved with gold, but overrun with rats unleashing hell across the city.
So as Dick sets out on exciting escapades far afield, he’s going to need more than the help of Cherry and joyful cook Sherrie Trifle if he’s to fulfil his magical destiny to become Mayor of London.
Hot on the heels of last year’s record-breaking Sleeping Beauty, winner of the Off West End 2023 Best Pantomime award, this festive sparkling favourite with side-splitting jokes, fabulous music and traditional mayhem, is guaranteed to delight all ages.
Everyone can enjoy this Christmas treat with QTH offering several access performances, including an audio described performance on Saturday 9 December at 2pm, a British Sign Language interpreted performance on Saturday 9 December at 6.30pm, a Dementia Friendly performance on Thursday 14 December at 1.30pm, and a Relaxed (SEN/Autism Friendly) performance on Thursday 14 December at 5.30pm.
The fun, family-friendly show will run from Thursday 23 November to Sunday 31 December. Tickets start from £13. Book online or by calling the box office on 01708 443333.For the best experience when booking an access performance, speak to the Theatre’s Box Office team.
Havering Antique Collectors Club meets on the third Friday of every month with speakers discussing antiques, art, jewellery, pottery and memorabilia.
This month, Geoff Bowden will deliver a musical talk on The Life and Music of Lionel Bart. Join Geoff and the club on Friday 17 November from 7:30pm at the Harold Wood Neighbourhood Centre, Gubbins Lane. Tickets cost £8 for guests.
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Havering Concert Orchestra presents its autumn concert - Homecoming. Exploring the theme of homecoming, with the Jewish people being freed from Babylon to return to their homeland, the yearning for a Finnish homeland, the story of Peer Gynt’s travels and his return home.
The Concert includes Verdi’s Overture to Nabucco, Sibelius’s Finlandia, Grieg’s Peer Gynt Suite and Vaughan Williams’ A London Symphony.
The concert takes place on Saturday 25 November, 7:30pm until 10pm, at Frances Bardsley Academy, Brentwood Road, Romford, RM1 2RR. Book online to for reduced ticket prices.
Essex Wildlife Trust Havering Group is hosting a talk by Sue Schwar about the work done at the South Essex Wildlife Hospital, which is a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and advice charity. It provides ambulance and hospital facilities looking after swans, hedgehogs, foxes, deer, birds, reptiles and many other animals.
No animal is turned away, and the costs of food, equipment, fuel and vets bills is met solely by public donations. The talk takes place on Monday 13 November, 2pm to 3:30pm at Fairkytes Art Centre, Hornchurch, RM11 1AX. They ask for a donation of £5, which includes tea, coffee and biscuits. Please call 07957264240 or 01708 473927 for more information.
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 Havering Singers are hosting their autumn concert, An Evening of French Music, on Saturday 18 December.
Under the expert baton of Jonathan Rathbone, and organist Jonathan Lilley, Havering Singers and Cheryl Enever (Soprano) and Emyr Lloyd Jones will be performing Faure's Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine, and Poulen's Gloria.
The concert takes place at St Peter's Church, Gubbins Lane, Harold Wood, Romford, RM3 0QA. Tickets cost £15. See the website for more details.
The Havering Inter Faith Forum is hosting a Faith Fun Quiz Time evening on Monday 13 November from 8pm.
With prizes to be won and fun to be had, the evening promises to be a great night for all. It takes place at The Salvation Army, High Street, Romford, RM1 1JJ, and entry is completely free.
The Havering Repair Café is back for Saturday 11 November, 11:15am to 2:15pm, at the Elm Park Assembly Hall, RM12 4RA.
Residents have the opportunity to learn how to repair household items, bikes or clothes. Advice is also available on how to use these skills and save money at the same time. More information can be found on the website.
The Elm Park Christmas Event will be taking place next Friday (17 November) from 3:30pm.
There will be lots of free entertainment and fun for the whole family, including face painting, rides, music and more. There will also be a Santa's Grotto at the Eye Clinic, 35 The Broadway - place for the grotto are limited so call Karen on 01708 447012 to book.
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Upcoming road closures
Deyncourt Gardens in Upminster will be closed daily at its junction with Hall Lane for gas mains work, 8am to 5pm from today, Friday 10 November to Friday 8 December.
Ockendon Road in Upminster will be closed daily at its junction with Fen Lane in a northerly direction to its junction with B1421, for the installation of fibre optic cables. The road will be closed 9am to 6pm on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 November.
Aldwych Close in Hornchurch will be closed daily from number 46 to number 58 for electrical works, 8am to 5pm from Monday 13 to Friday 17 November.
Douglas Road in Romford will be closed daily at its junction with Brentwood Road for gas mains work, 7am to 6pm from Monday 13 to Monday 27 November.
Burlington Avenue in Romford will be closed daily at its junction with London Road for gas mains work, 7am to 6pm from Thursday 16 November to Sunday 3 December.
London Road (cycle lane) in Romford will be closed daily on both sides from its junctions with Lonsdale Avenue to its junction with Coombewood Drive, for gas mains work. The closures will take place 7am to 6pm from Thursday 16 November to Friday 16 February.
High Street in Hornchurch will be closed briefly at its junctions with Billet Lane and North Street for the Hornchurch Christmas Lights switch-on event. The road will be closed between 4:55pm and 5:05pm on Saturday 18 November. Loading bays on High Street in Hornchurch will also be closed from 8am until 6pm on Saturday 18 November.
Ongoing closures
Crowlands Avenue in Romford remains closed daily for gas mains work, 8am to 5pm until Friday 17 November.
Ferguson Avenue in Gidea Park remains closed daily at its junction with Upper Brentwood Road for gas mains work, 8am to 5pm until Sunday 19 November.
Public transport
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Engineering works between Barking and Pitsea via Laindon are affecting evening and early morning services on the c2c Basildon line from Monday 13 to Thursday 16 November.
Engineering works between Barking and Grays are affecting evening and early morning services on the c2c Ockendon line from Monday 13 to Thursday 16 November.
Check the website for full details on all c2c service changes.
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