Interim managers have been recruited to cover some essential posts. Nevertheless, the lack of a full team of talented experienced and committed top managers remains a major gap. The financial management function is particularly under strength and this is a vital area given the problems facing the council. Some essential services are failing the council's citizens. 17,000 housing benefit claims are awaiting assessment.
Tenants face eviction and social landlords face financial losses.
The waste collection and street cleansing services are not meeting even basic standards though they are among the most expensive in the country. While improvements have been made the council's care for children at risk remains below required standards. Hackney is among the highest spenders in local government but many services remain below acceptable standards. There is a culture of depressed cynicism amongst many of the council's management. Years of structural change and uncoordinated innovation have undermined staff energy and enthusiasm and created suspicion about necessary change.