Purpose

The proposal is to build a 12-bed residential unit linked to the SEND Wellow Centre at Bath College, Somer Valley site. The college is providing the land on which this is to be built. This would accommodate young people with special educational needs aged 16+. This is a stepping stone between living at home and moving to either supported living or independent living. The proposal is for 12 bedrooms each with en-suite plus a carers room, together with communal kitchen and living areas. The rationale for this provision is to offer a residential element in B&NES thereby preventing expensive out of area placements at independent residential colleges. There are many benefits to the young people remaining in their local area for example - local employment, social, economic and environmental reasons. A capital loan of £4m has been agreed in principle.

Decision

(1)  To give full approval to the capital project of £4m as a grant allocation to Bath College to build a 12-bed residential unit on the College land at the Somer Valley campus. This is within the spend set by the Council.

(2)  To delegate to the Director of Education & Safeguarding, in consultation with the 151 Officer, to enter into capital grant and operating agreements with Bath College for the provision of SEND residential placements - through a new build unit.

Reasons for the decision

To reduce the large overspend in Children's Services on high cost out-of-county special independent colleges for Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). These placements are funded by Joint Agency Panel and SEN/Adult Social Care. This unit will enable young people with complex needs aged 16 to 25 to remain in their local community to receive their education and build independence and life skills in support of Education, Health and Social Care outcomes.

The 12-bed residential unit will meet the priorities outlined in the Council's Corporate Strategy 2020 to 2024 as follows: The unit will improve the lives of young people with SEND, by providing a much-needed local residential educational facility in the Radstock area, as well as increasing economic benefits by enabling the young people to build contacts and gain employment in their local area.

Alternative options considered

None.