The Children's Trust Joint Committee met on Wednesday 22 April 2026 to discuss the financial forecast for the Northamptonshire Children's Trust for the 2025-2026 financial year. The committee noted a significant projected overspend and the pressures this places on both North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council.

Northamptonshire Children's Trust 2025-2026 Forecast Position and Savings

The committee received an update on the financial position of the Northamptonshire Children's Trust for the 2025-2026 financial year, based on forecasts as at the end of February 2026. The agreed contract sum for the year was £185,651,000, with approved change controls increasing this to just over £191 million. However, the Trust is now forecasting an outturn of £213,188,000, representing a net pressure to the councils of £27,537,000.

The primary drivers for this pressure are identified as rising demand and costs within placements, particularly residential, secure, and baby and parent assessments. Other contributing factors include additional care packages and staffing costs. These challenges are described as reflecting a wider national picture within children's services, including market fragility and a lack of sufficient placements, and are not unique to Northamptonshire.

The Trust had a savings programme of £12.2 million for the year. As of the period 11 forecast, just over £7 million of these savings had been delivered. However, a number of key savings are now categorised as red and are unlikely to be achieved within the current financial year. These include savings linked to joint transformation activities such as early health, care leaver accommodation, and enhanced fostering.

The recommendation before the committee was to note the forecast outturn position and the resulting pressures on both councils to maintain appropriate financial oversight.

Councillor Graham Cheatley enquired about the mitigations being put in place by North Northamptonshire Council (NNC). Claire Edwards explained that mitigations would involve working with the Trust on transformation programmes, specifically focusing on T20 programmes for North and West Northamptonshire for the 2026-2027 financial year and beyond. This includes ensuring the Trust's involvement in the budget board process and fostering a collaborative arrangement to understand key data and demand drivers.

Councillor Mark Arnull acknowledged the report's content and the forecast outturn, noting that these pressures are expected to continue into the current financial year. He highlighted that many of these pressures are beyond the control of both councillors and the public.

Councillor Martin Griffiths emphasised the commitment to the young people of Northamptonshire, stating his personal commitment to the Children's Trust predates its creation. He acknowledged that while the Trust received a good Ofsted rating in 2022, there is more work to be done, particularly regarding finances and the T20 priorities for North Northamptonshire. He reiterated his commitment to acting as a corporate parent and protecting children and young people.

Councillor Griffiths also complimented the officers on their readiness for upcoming inspections.

The committee unanimously resolved to note the financial situation.