Havering Council has formally signed up as a Local Leadership Partner with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
It marks a significant step in its commitment to supporting and championing the borough’s vibrant small business community.
The new partnership will see the Council and the FSB work closely together to promote business growth, improve access to support services, and strengthen the voice of local entrepreneurs.
The formal event took place at Security Projects (UK) Ltd, a Havering business based at Fairview Industrial Estate in the London Riverside Business District, on Wednesday 28 January 2026.
Councillor Morgon was joined by Cllr Graham Williamson, Laura Timms and Sarah King from the FSB, Ilker Dervish and Debbie Moore from London Riverside, and Mark Kane and Kevin Radford, from Security Projects (UK) Ltd.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council. said:
“Small businesses are at the heart of Havering’s economy.
“By joining forces with the Federation of Small Businesses, we are strengthening the support available to our local entrepreneurs and reaffirming our commitment to helping them thrive.
“We will be nominating our Small Business Champion shortly who will lead on ensuring we are listening to the needs of our business community and putting in place practical measures that help them grow and succeed.”
As part of the agreement, both organisations will collaborate on networking opportunities, policy discussions, training sessions, and initiatives designed to help small firms navigate challenges and take advantage of new opportunities.
FSB London Regional Chair, Laura Timm said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Havering Council as a Local Leadership Partner. Small businesses are the backbone of Havering’s economy, and this pledge shows real commitment to ensuring their voices shape the borough’s future.
“With Havering joining a growing number of London councils signing the pledge, we’re seeing real momentum behind stronger collaboration between local authorities and small firms.”
Ilker Dervish, London Riverside (BID) Ltd Chair, which represents over 600 businesses and 5000 employees in the south of Rainham, added:
“The London Riverside BID welcomes this partnership and I look forward to seeing what can be achieved together.”
Havering is home to thousands of small and micro‑businesses across sectors including retail, hospitality, construction, and professional services.
The partnership supports the Council’s wider ambition to boost economic growth, create local jobs, and foster a thriving environment where businesses of all sizes can flourish.
This commitment forms part of a wider suite of initiatives in the borough that include the annual Small Business Awards, and the Keep it Local campaign which was launched last year.