Newham Council pays tribute to former Cllr Kevin Jenkins OBE

Newham Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz said: “I am very sad to hear of the passing of Kevin and my thoughts go to his family and friends during this difficult time. On behalf of all councillors and the Council, I offer my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, and I know he will be sorely missed for his contributions to Newham as a committed community leader dedicated to the people of this great borough that he cherished and loved.

“Kevin worked tirelessly for Newham since he was elected to Greatfield Ward in 1986 and then 2010 in East Ham South Ward. He was passionate about our diverse community and a strong advocate of services to improve the life chances and outcomes for young people in the borough. He was influential in developing pioneering policies across early years provision, enrichment activities and youth services; especially for our young people with special educational needs.”

“As a lifelong resident of Newham, Kevin exemplified a tireless devotion to improving the borough, both as a councillor for 28 years and through his work at local charity Community Links, which he co-founded in 1977. In 2016, he founded Ambition Aspire Achieve (AAA), another local charity based in Plaistow, which provides opportunities for children and young people in Newham.”

“He will be sadly missed by all at the council and by the many whose lives have been touched by his work and commitment to the communities of Newham.”