Decision details

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1)    Note the Six-month performance report for 2025/26, as attached in Appendix 1;

2)    Note that it will also be presented to Select Committees in discharging their overview and scrutiny role, and also full Council;

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Transformation introduced the six-monthly performance report, which would be considered further by the Select Committee and presented to full Council in January. The Cabinet Member highlighted that the overall message was strong outcomes delivered at low cost, reflecting the long-standing policy of the Administration.

Key points included Hillingdon having the fourth lowest expenditure in London per 100,000 residents despite additional pressures from asylum responsibilities and its role as a Port Authority at Heathrow. Adult social care expenditure was the second lowest among comparable boroughs, with a good CQC rating placing the Council in the top quartile nationally. Children’s services had the third lowest expenditure and retained an outstanding rating. Resident services demonstrated strong value for money, and general fund spending on housing ranked eighth lowest in London, with temporary accommodation costs mitigated by interventions. Rough sleeping remained a challenge, largely due to Heathrow’s presence within the Borough.

The Vice-Chair commented that the report demonstrated the efficiency and value for money of Council services, noting that financial pressures were driven by demand factors beyond the Council’s control rather than poor performance.

Alternative options considered and rejected

None.