London Together: A Report
This report is part of our Capital Gains project, which aims to change policy and improve services for Londoners facing multiple and complex needs. It provides an analysis of the current situation, a summary of the policy context and a vision for change, and identifies six strategic priorities. Although London generates significant wealth and opportunity, too many Londoners face entrenched social and economic exclusion linked to a range of problems. These include poverty, poor mental health, homelessness, substance misuse, repeat victimisation and offending.
These problems overlap for the most disadvantaged, who become caught in a negative ‘revolving door’ cycle. Facing multiple and complex needs, they come into repeated contact with services without receiving the coordinated help they need. Informed by discussions with experts and service providers, desk-based research, and consultation with our London Service User Panel, this report provides:
- A brief analysis of the prevalence and cost of multiple needs across London
- A summary of the London policy context across key services
- A vision for change.
The report calls for a strong focus on this agenda from the London Mayor, local government leaders, and key public sector partners. It also makes the case for a London-wide partnership strategy to improve responses for the most excluded adults. The six strategic priorities that should inform a renewed drive to improve outcomes for the most excluded Londoners are:
- Earlier intervention in people’s problems
- Greater access to targeted and intensive support for those facing the most complex needs
- Co-ordinated rehabilitation for offenders facing multiple needs
- Improved health and wellbeing for the most excluded adults
- Creating a system that supports long-term recovery
- Greater user involvement in the design and delivery of services.
