A long term decrease in the birth rate across London is feeding into reduced demand for reception places at London's schools and a reduction in school finances, which could have an impact on school standards and children’s experience of school.

Writing in Schools Week, London Councils Executive Member for Children and Young People Cllr Ian Edwards says: "Councils have a hugely important role in supporting the education system, and we will continue to work hard to minimise the impact fewer pupils may potentially have on school budgets. London boroughs are supporting and guiding schools during this period and are looking to work with government to attain greater oversight and influence of the system to allow a smoother operation with minimal disruption to children in schools with falling rolls.

"We do not know how long this downturn in pupil numbers will continue, and it is essential that while we adjust to this emerging trend we find ways to minimise disruption to our children’s’ education. Boroughs are listening to our local schools and working with teachers and parents to find a sustainable model out of this period of reduction that brings about a better future for our schools and London’s children.

"There is a real chance to nurture local and regional collaboration, to strengthen partnerships and how we share information. But this period also presents substantial risk, and our aim must be to protect and sustain our schools’ hard-won gains."

You can read London Councils' report: Managing surplus places in London schools here.

The Serious Violence Duty, which requires responsible authorities, inlcuding local authorities, the police, youth offending teams, integrated care systems (ICS), probation, and the fire service to work together to prevent and reduce serious violence on a local basis, came into effect yesterday (31 January).

The duty, which is encompassed in the Police Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, is part of the government’s approach to prevent and reduce serious violence through a multi-agency public health approach to understanding the drivers and impacts of serious violence, and a focus on prevention and early intervention.

London Councils has briefed members on the introduction of the Duty and the London Guidance. You can read the Member Briefing on our website here.

Businesses and organisations with disused digital devices and/or equipment they are looking to dispose of are encouraged to get in touch with the Good Things Foundation to see if they are suitable for upcycling as part of their National Databank.

The databank is a key element of  Get Online London, London’s first Digital Inclusion service offering Londoners access to refurbished devices, free mobile connectivity and digital skills they may need to get online.

Get Online London is supported by the London Office of Technology and Innovation (LOTI) and the Mayor of London.

There are no costs involved for organisations wishing to donate devices, which will support the circular economy, reducing e-waste as well as having a positive social impact.

If you’re a business looking to support by donating your disused devices and/or equipment, please fill in this form or email the Good Things Foundation.