Principles met

  • We will develop systems that enable citizens to be equal partners in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.
  • We will embrace innovation in how we work with local communities to drive positive change.
  • In exploring new ways of meeting the priority needs of our communities we will encourage models, such as co-operatives and mutuals, which give greater influence and voice to staff and users. in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.

The London Borough of Newham is on a radical mission to transform the area through local participatory democracy. Our People Powered Newham programme empowers staff to work with residents to develop strategies and shape budgets that lead to action on the ground and is already delivering lasting change.

Under the leadership of Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE we have established the country’s first Permanent Citizens Assembly, invested £3.2 million in eight Community Assemblies, launched the UK’s first community-led longitudinal research through the Newham Citizen Science Academy, enabled young people to develop a Young People’s Charter and are delivering a Tackling, Racism, Inequality and Disproportionality programme.

Our Permanent Citizen’s Assembly is breaking new ground in scale and ambition. Our most recent Assembly is helping to deliver a £40 million 15 Minute Neighbourhood programme, with new cycling and walking infrastructure improvements informing our new Local Plan. By removing barriers to participation through financial support for childcare, providing ICT training and equipment, as well as paying the London Living Wage we have ensured that the Assembly reflects the high levels of diversity and lived experience of Newham residents.

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