Brexit and what it means

The UK officially left the EU at 11pm on 31 January 2020.​ Back in 2016, Newham voted by 53% to stay in the EU, a relatively close margin, with London overall voting remain by 59 per cent. 

In the run up to us officially exiting, we were working hard to draw up plans to safeguard the borough’s interests and preparing for a range of outcomes.  

Among a number of measures, the council has been working with other local authorities, through both London Councils and the Mayor of London, to make clear that both the borough and city remain open for business, to protect the economic investment coming into Newham, and to help the local economy. 

Plans we have put in place 

Newham Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz established a Newham Brexit Board tasked with progressing the council’s preparations. It will be chaired by the Mayor and involve the lead member for finance, Councillor Terence Paul, local business representatives and expert advisors supported by council officers. 

We will continue to undertake activities to reassure residents amid the uncertainty over Britain’s departure from the EU between now and the end of the EU Settled Status Scheme, 30 June 2021.  

We would encourage all concerned residents to register with the Home Office to receive updates. 

This page provides information and signposting for residents. You may have also seen Brexit information in editions of the Newham Mag. As part of this, we have been encouraging residents to sign up for settled status. 

Apply for settled status 

As of September 2019, there had been 45,570 settled status applications from residents in Newham (as of 30 September 2019) – more than in any local authority in the country. Residents who require digital support in applying for settled status can make an appointment to do so in three of our libraries (East Ham, Canning Town and Stratford) by calling 0333 344 4019. 

An assistance outreach event will take place later in the year. This will be advertised in the Newham Mag, on our website and via social media. 

Sign up for email updates from the Home Office​