This week in Kent:

Council Faces Critical Budget Decisions as Financial Pressures Mount

Kent County Council's Cabinet met on Thursday, 29 January 2026, to confront significant financial planning documents that will shape the council's spending and investment for years to come. The discussions centred on the revenue and capital budget forecasts, including the draft financial plans for the coming years. These decisions are crucial for maintaining essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups, and will set the financial direction for the council.

Quarter 3 Financial Performance: A Snapshot of Current Spending

The meeting began with a review of the 25-00103 - Revenue and Capital Budget Forecast Outturn Report Quarter 3. This report provides an update on how the council's spending aligns with its budget for the third quarter of the current financial year, covering both day-to-day revenue expenditure and capital investments in infrastructure and assets. Understanding these figures is vital for ensuring that public money is being used effectively and efficiently.

Charting the Future: Draft Budgets and Medium Term Financial Plan

A substantial portion of the Cabinet's attention was dedicated to the Draft Capital Programme 2026-36, Revenue Budget 2026-27 and MTFP 2026-2029. This comprehensive document outlines the council's financial strategy for the next decade, detailing proposed investments in infrastructure and assets, the revenue budget for the upcoming financial year, and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) which sets out the financial strategy for the next three years. The associated Appendix - Draft Revenue Budget 2026-27 and 2026-29 MTFP and Draft Capital Programme 2026-36 provides further detail.

• What's at Stake: These financial plans directly influence the services Kent residents receive. Decisions made now will determine funding levels for schools, social care, road maintenance, and countless other public services. For vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, disabled, and children in care, these budgets are critical for ensuring they receive the support they need.
• The Challenge: Balancing increasing demand for services with limited resources is a constant challenge. The council must make difficult choices about where to allocate funds, and these decisions can have a profound impact on the quality and availability of support for those who rely on it most.
• Learn More: Explore the full financial proposals for the coming years here: Draft Capital Programme 2026-36, Revenue Budget 2026-27 and MTFP 2026-2029.

The Cabinet also reviewed the Minutes of the Meeting held on 8 January 2026, which recorded the discussions and decisions from their previous meeting.

Transport Appeals Heard in Private: Transparency Concerns Remain

The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) met on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, to consider five appeals. As has been the pattern in previous meetings of this panel, the discussions were held under exempt circumstances, meaning the press and public were excluded. This practice, while often necessary to protect individual privacy, limits transparency in decisions that can impact local transport services and the rights of individuals and businesses.

• What's at Stake: Decisions made in these appeals can have a direct impact on local transport services, potentially affecting routes, licensing, and the accessibility of transport for residents.
• The Concern: The exclusion of the public from these decision-making processes raises questions about accountability and public understanding of how transport policies are shaped. Without access to the details of the appeals and the reasoning behind the decisions, it is difficult for residents to fully understand or scrutinise these outcomes.
• Learn More: Information regarding the appeals considered is available in the meeting papers: Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport).

Personnel Committee Discusses Pay Bargaining in Private

The Personnel Committee convened on Thursday, 29 January 2026. A key item on the agenda was the discussion of pay bargaining, which was presented by Benjamin Watts, Deputy Chief Executive. This discussion was held in private, with the press and public excluded. The report indicated that this was due to the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph 3 of part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.

• What's at Stake: Pay bargaining directly affects the remuneration of council staff, which in turn can impact staff morale, retention, and the council's ability to attract skilled employees. Fair and competitive pay is essential for maintaining the quality of public services.
• The Concern: Holding these discussions in private limits transparency regarding how staff pay is determined, which can lead to public concern about fairness and value for money.
• Learn More: Details of the meeting can be found here: Personnel Committee.

Governance and Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Risk

The Governance and Audit Committee met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to review a range of financial and risk management matters crucial to the council's operational integrity. The committee received updates on the external auditor's progress, the corporate risk register, and the statutory accounts for Kent County Council's wholly owned companies.

External Audit Progress and Future Plans

The committee received an update from Grant Thornton UK LLP on the progress of the external audit for Kent County Council and the Kent Pension Fund. The report detailed the status of the 2024/25 audit and outlined plans for the 2025/26 audit, including fieldwork and the approach to the Value for Money assessment. This assessment is vital for ensuring the council is using its resources effectively and sustainably.

Corporate Risk Register: Identifying and Managing Key Threats

A significant focus was placed on the Corporate Risk Register, which was updated to reflect new risks and changes in risk exposure. Notably, the risk rating for Risk of significant adverse variance to the level of savings and income agreed in KCC's budget and Delivery Against Safety Valve Agreement were both increased to the maximum level. This highlights the council's awareness of significant financial challenges and the importance of the Safety Valve Programme in addressing them. A new draft risk concerning Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was also introduced, capturing key risks from the council's perspective.

Statutory Accounts for Wholly Owned Companies

The committee reviewed the statutory accounts for Kent County Council's wholly owned companies for the year ended 31 March 2025. The report summarised key financial figures and highlighted challenges faced by these companies, including public sector budget constraints and increased competition. The accounts were externally audited by UHY Hacker Young and received unqualified audit certificates, indicating sound financial reporting.

• What's at Stake: Robust governance and audit processes are fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring the responsible management of public funds. The Corporate Risk Register, in particular, helps the council anticipate and mitigate potential threats that could impact service delivery and financial stability.
• Learn More: Details of these discussions can be found in the Governance and Audit Committee meeting papers.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 04 February 2026.
• A meeting with an unknown name will be held on Thursday 05 February 2026 here.
• The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) will meet on Tuesday 10 February 2026.
• The Planning Applications Committee will meet on Wednesday 11 February 2026.
• The County Council will meet on Thursday 12 February 2026.

This week in Kent:

Budget Battles and Service Safeguards: Council Faces Tough Financial Choices

Kent County Council's Adult Social Care and Public Health Cabinet Committee met on Wednesday, 21 January 2026, to tackle critical budget proposals and strategies for safeguarding vulnerable residents. The discussions revealed the immense pressure on adult social care services, with significant budget allocations and a new strategy for suicide prevention at the forefront.

Safeguarding Our Future: A New Strategy for Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention

A cornerstone of the meeting was the proposed Suicide and Self Harm Prevention Strategy 2026-2030. This vital strategy aims to provide a comprehensive approach to tackling suicide and self-harm across the county over the next four years. The committee reviewed detailed reports, including an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) and a Consultation Report, highlighting the council's commitment to mental well-being.

• What's at Stake: This strategy directly impacts the lives of individuals and families affected by mental health crises. A robust plan can mean earlier intervention, better support networks, and ultimately, saving lives.
• The Approach: The strategy integrates efforts to address both adult and children's needs, recognising that suicide and self-harm can affect anyone. Real-time suicide surveillance and collaboration with Kent Police are key components.
• Learn More: Dive into the details of the proposed strategy here: Proposed Prevention Strategy for 2026 - 2030.

Budget Realities: Adult Social Care Faces Mounting Pressures

The committee delved into the draft revenue, capital budget, and mid-term financial plan for Adult Social Care and Public Health. The figures paint a stark picture of increasing demand and complexity of needs, particularly for residents under 65. The council is grappling with a strained care market, exacerbated by rising national insurance contributions and minimum wage increases.

• The Challenge: The council faces the difficult task of balancing statutory duties with the need to invest in prevention and long-term change. The draft budget aims to be responsible, but the report acknowledges that the ends don't seem to meet all the time.
• Key Investments: The plan includes exploring opportunities to expand care, reviewing the home care market, and piloting technology drop-in sessions in libraries to support digital inclusion.
• The Impact: Increased costs and demand in adult social care could translate to longer waiting times for essential support, impacting the independence and well-being of some of Kent's most vulnerable residents.
• Learn More: Explore the full budget proposals here: Draft Revenue Capital Budget and Mid Term Financial Plan for Adult Social Care.

Supporting Our Communities: Contract Awards and Extensions

Several crucial contract decisions were on the agenda, impacting vital support services:

• Kent Carers' Support Service: The committee was set to consider the award of a new contract for this essential service, ensuring continued support for unpaid carers across the county.
• Learning Disability, Physical Disability, and Mental Health Services: Proposals for extending contracts in these areas were reviewed, aiming to maintain continuity of care for individuals with diverse needs.
• Kent Drug & Alcohol Services: An update on these services was provided, underscoring the council's commitment to addressing substance misuse.

• Provider Fee Uplifts: Discussions around proposed fee uplifts for adult social care providers for 2026/2027 were held. This is a critical factor in ensuring the sustainability of care providers and the quality of services they deliver. Concerns were raised about potential home closures if uplifts are insufficient, which could disproportionately affect smaller providers and concentrate provision with larger entities.

• What's at Stake: These contract decisions directly affect the quality and availability of care for thousands of residents. Insufficient funding or poorly managed contracts could lead to service disruptions and a decline in care standards.

• Learn More: Details on these contract decisions can be found in the meeting papers: Kent Carers' Support Service Contract Award and Adult Social Care Provider Fee Uplifts 2026/2027.

Scrutiny Committee Tackles SEND Crisis and Water Quality Concerns

The Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 22 January 2026, to scrutinise the council's budget, the ongoing challenges with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision, and the critical issue of water quality.

SEND Outlier: Kent's High EHCP Numbers Under the Microscope

A significant focus was the SEND Scrutiny report, which highlighted that Kent continues to issue Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) at a rate significantly higher than national averages. With 20,635 children and young people having EHCPs, representing 6.2% of the relevant population, Kent stands out as an outlier.

• The Impact: This high number suggests potential systemic issues in identifying and supporting children with SEND, placing immense pressure on resources and families. The report explored socio-economic factors, environmental influences, and changes in diagnostic criteria as potential reasons.
• The Response: The committee noted the council's entry into the Department for Education's Safety Valve Programme, aimed at developing a sustainable plan for recovery.
• Learn More: Read the full SEND Scrutiny report here: Public reports pack 22nd-Jan-2026 10.00 Scrutiny Committee.pdf.

Water Woes: Inquiry into Tunbridge Wells Supply Failure

The committee agreed to establish a Short Focused Inquiry into the recent water supply failure in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas. This failure affected up to 24,000 properties and led to a boil notice, highlighting critical infrastructure vulnerabilities.

• What's at Stake: Reliable access to clean water is a fundamental public health issue. This inquiry aims to identify lessons learned and prevent future disruptions, particularly for vulnerable settings like care homes and schools.
• The Scope: The inquiry will examine past failures, measures to improve infrastructure resilience, and how the council can better support affected communities.
• Learn More: The terms of reference for the inquiry are detailed in this document: SFI - Water Quality.pdf.

Budget Scrutiny: A Deep Dive into Council Finances

The committee undertook a thorough review of the council's financial plans, including the draft revenue budget, medium-term financial plan, and capital programme. The proposals reveal a significant planned spending increase, largely driven by adult social care and children's services.

• The Numbers: A proposed Council Tax increase of 3.99% is on the table, with the county council's element of the Band D charge set at £1,758.60.
• The Risks: The report identified significant risks, particularly in Adult Social Care demand and costs, and the delivery of savings. The council's general reserve needs to be restored to 5% of net revenue to maintain financial resilience.
• Learn More: Access the detailed budget reports here: Draft-budget-report-January-2026.pdf.

Children and Education Committee Addresses Budget Shortfalls and Service Provision

The Children, Young People and Education Cabinet Committee met on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to discuss the draft budgets for children's services, performance monitoring, and crucial changes to specialist resource provisions. The meeting highlighted significant financial challenges, particularly concerning the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG).

SEND Funding Crisis: A £75 Million Deficit Looms

A major concern raised was the projected in-year overspend on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) for 2026-27, with costs for supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) expected to exceed grant income by approximately £75 million. This deficit is a continuation of a trend that has seen the council overspending the grant since 2018-19, with accumulated deficits forecast to reach £136 million by March 2026.

• What's at Stake: This deficit directly impacts the funding available for SEN provision, potentially leading to reduced support for children with the most complex needs. The council's participation in the Department of Education's Safety Valve programme aims to address this, but the scale of the problem is significant.
• The Challenge: The government's decision to freeze the High Needs Block of the DSG at 2025-26 levels, without an increase for demographic changes or inflation, exacerbates the issue.
• Learn More: Understand the financial pressures in the Children's Services budget here: Draft Capital Programme and Budget Proposals.

Specialist Resource Provision Changes: River Primary School and Ebbsfleet Green Primary School

The committee considered proposals for changes to specialist resource provisions:

• River Primary School, Dover: A proposal to remove the specialist resource provision (SRP) for pupils with speech and language needs was discussed due to a significant reduction in pupil numbers accessing the service.

• Ebbsfleet Green Primary School: A proposal to increase capacity through capital investment for a new modular building was considered to accommodate growing demand for early years places.

• The Impact: These decisions aim to ensure that specialist provision is appropriately located and resourced to meet the evolving needs of children with SEND.

• Learn More: Details on these proposals can be found in the meeting papers: Specialist Resource Provision (SRP) and School Capacity.

Family Hubs Funding Secured: Continued Support for Young Families

The committee received positive news regarding the Best Start Family Hubs Programme Grant Award. Kent County Council has been provisionally allocated £15,354,500 over three years from April 2026 to continue delivering Family Hubs, building on the existing model and aligning with programme requirements.

• The Benefit: Family Hubs provide crucial support for pregnant women, perinatal mental health, early years development, and addressing emerging issues around SEND and family conflict.
• Learn More: Information on the Family Hubs programme can be found here: Grant Funding and Financial Matters.

Other Matters

Personnel Committee - Member Appointment Panel: Key Director Role Under Review

The Personnel Committee - Member Appointment Panel met on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, to interview candidates for the crucial role of Corporate Director of Adult Social Care and Health. This appointment is vital for the effective leadership and delivery of adult social care services, which are currently facing significant pressures. The meeting also included standard procedural items.

• What's at Stake: The appointment of a Corporate Director for Adult Social Care and Health is critical for navigating the complex challenges and ensuring the continued provision of essential services to vulnerable residents.
• Learn More: Details of the meeting can be found here: Personnel Committee - Member Appointment Panel.

Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport): Appeals Heard in Private

The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) convened on Friday, 23 January 2026, to consider seven appeals. As is often the case with these panels, the discussions were held under exempt circumstances, meaning the press and public were excluded. This practice, while often necessary to protect individual privacy, limits transparency in decisions that can impact local transport services.

• The Concern: The exclusion of the public from these decision-making processes raises questions about accountability and public understanding of how transport policies are shaped.
• Learn More: Information regarding the appeals considered is available in the meeting papers: Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport).

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026.
• The Personnel Committee will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026.
• The Cabinet will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026.
• The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee will meet on Wednesday 04 February 2026.
• A meeting with an unknown name will be held on Thursday 05 February 2026 here.

This week in Kent:

Council Grapples with Budget Pressures and Service Delivery

Kent County Council's Policy and Resources Cabinet Committee met on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to discuss a range of critical issues, including the draft budget for key departments, a resilience update, and the management of the council's property estate. The discussions highlighted the ongoing financial challenges faced by the council and the difficult decisions required to maintain essential services.

Land Disposal at Former Spires Academy

A key item was the proposed disposal of land at the former Spires Academy site in Westbere, Canterbury. The site, vacant since 2013, has been allocated for 37 new dwellings in the Draft Canterbury District Local Plan. The committee considered options for the site, with a freehold disposal being the recommended path forward. This decision aims to generate revenue while adhering to local planning requirements.

Resilience and Emergency Preparedness

The committee received an update on the work of the Resilience and Emergency Planning Service, which ensures KCC meets its duties under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. Recent incidents, including a bitumen discharge in Gravesend, a fire at the Portlands Factory Club in Northfleet, and a water outage affecting Tunbridge Wells, were reviewed. These events underscore the importance of robust emergency planning to protect residents.

Peppercorn Lease Estate Review

A strategic overview of KCC's peppercorn lease estate was also presented. A peppercorn lease involves a nominal rent, and KCC manages over 350 such properties. The report outlined the various reasons for these arrangements, from retaining control to mitigating holding costs for surplus property. The council's governance process ensures these leases are granted only when fully justified.

Draft Budget Discussions

The committee discussed the draft budget for the Chief Executive's Department and Deputy Chief Executive's Department. The focus was on ensuring the budget is affordable, reflects strategic priorities, and maintains financial resilience. Key considerations included capital spending on asset modernisation and revenue spending growth in areas like adult social care and children's services. The report highlighted that spending growth continues to outpace funding, necessitating savings and income generation.

• What's at Stake: The budget discussions directly impact the funding available for vital services. For example, increased costs in adult social care could mean longer waits for support for vulnerable residents.
• The Challenge: Balancing increasing demand for services with limited funding remains a significant challenge for the council.
• Learn More: Details of these discussions can be found in the Policy and Resources Cabinet Committee meeting papers.

Transport Appeals Heard Amidst Confidentiality

The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) met on Monday, 12 January 2026, to consider six appeals. As is often the case with these appeals, the press and public were excluded from discussions concerning individuals, making it difficult to ascertain the specific outcomes and their broader implications for transport policy.

• What's at Stake: Decisions made in these appeals can impact local transport services and the rights of individuals and businesses.
• The Concern: The exclusion of the public raises questions about transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
• Learn More: Information on the appeals considered can be found in the Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) meeting papers.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Children, Young People and Education Cabinet Committee will meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026.
• The Personnel Committee - Member Appointment Panel will meet on Tuesday 20 January 2026.
• The Adult Social Care Cabinet Committee will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026.
• The Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026.
• The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) will meet on Friday 23 January 2026.
• The Governance and Audit Committee will meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026.
• The Cabinet will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026.
• The Personnel Committee will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026.
• The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026.

This week in Kent:

Council Faces Multi-Million Pound Overspend as Budget Pressures Mount

Kent County Council's Cabinet has grappled with a significant financial challenge, noting a provisional local government finance settlement that, while offering faster-than-average growth, comes as the council faces a projected £46.5 million overspend for the current financial year. The bulk of this overspend, £50.9 million, is concentrated in Adult Social Care & Health (ASCH), raising serious concerns about the future of vital support services for vulnerable residents.

The provisional settlement for 2026-27 to 2028-29 includes a substantial reform of funding allocations, with a full reset of the retained business rate baseline. While this is expected to benefit Kent, the council's own budget decisions will be made during the upcoming budget process. The multi-year settlement is a welcome step towards greater certainty for financial planning, a significant improvement after years of uncertainty.

However, the immediate concern is the current year's deficit. The Quarterly Performance Report for July to September 2025 highlighted five Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) rated as Red, meaning they did not meet the minimum standard. These included the percentage of complaints responded to within the timescale, and Freedom of Information and Subject Access Requests completed within statutory timescales. The report also flagged routine highway repairs not being completed within 28 days, and issues with foster care placements being in-house or with relatives.

The Corporate Risk Register also reflects these financial pressures, with Significant failure to bring forecast budget overspend under control remaining a High Risk. A new High Risk, ASCH Recommissioning Programme, has been added due to concerns about delivering commissioning activity within expected timescales. This directly impacts the ability to provide timely and effective support for those needing adult social care.

The council is taking action to mitigate the overspend, including a hiring freeze and a review of all spending. The impact of these measures on service delivery, particularly for those most reliant on council support, will be closely watched.

• What's at Stake: The overspend in Adult Social Care & Health could mean longer waiting times for essential support, impacting the independence and well-being of elderly residents, people with disabilities, and those with complex health needs.
• The Numbers: A £46.5 million forecast revenue overspend, with £50.9 million of that within Adult Social Care & Health.
• The Response: The Cabinet noted the implementation of actions to mitigate the revenue overspend, including a hiring freeze and a review of all spending.
• Learn More: Read the full details of the Cabinet meeting here: Cabinet Meeting 08 January 2026

Council Approves Single Authority Plan Amidst Financial Strain

Kent County Council's Cabinet has given its backing to a strategic business case for local government reorganisation (LGR), proposing a single unitary authority for Kent and Medway. This decision, made in the context of the significant budget overspend, aims to streamline services and achieve financial efficiencies.

The proposed model includes devolved area assemblies, intended to maintain local representation and responsiveness. The council argues this is the most viable option for financial sustainability and managing the complexities of reorganisation. This business case will now be submitted to the government for consideration.

• The Goal: To create a more efficient and financially stable local government structure for Kent and Medway.
• The Concern: Residents may worry about losing local representation and the potential for a mega council to be less responsive to community needs.
• Learn More: Details of this decision can be found in the Cabinet meeting minutes: Cabinet Meeting 08 January 2026

Driving Change: New Contracts and Investments in Highways and Transport

Kent County Council is investing significantly in its highways and transport infrastructure, with a new £2 billion contract for highways maintenance and substantial funding for road surfacing and pothole repairs. These initiatives aim to improve the quality and safety of the road network across the county.

The new 14-year contract with Ringway Infrastructure Services Ltd, worth up to £2 billion, is set to begin in May and promises faster repairs, higher standards, and better value for money. This follows a year where £30 million was invested in road surfacing, with a further 10 sites scheduled for treatment by March.

The council is also bolstering its pothole repair programme, with a capital highways maintenance grant of £56 million for the coming year, an increase of £2 million. Over the next four years, a total of £274 million will be invested in highways maintenance.

Furthermore, significant investment is being made in public transport. Over £3 million in grants is being rolled out for better bus shelters, matched by district and parish councils, to improve comfort and safety for passengers. Dover is set to launch its first fast-track electric bus fleet on January 30th, supported by provisional government funding of over £48 million in capital and £42 million in revenue over the next three to four years.

• What's at Stake: Improved road conditions mean safer journeys for all road users, reduced vehicle wear and tear, and better connectivity for businesses and communities. Enhanced public transport options can reduce reliance on private vehicles, contributing to environmental goals and providing accessible travel for those without cars.
• The Investment: A £2 billion highways maintenance contract, £56 million for pothole repairs, and over £3 million for bus shelters.
• Learn More: Updates on these transport initiatives were provided at the Cabinet meeting: Cabinet Meeting 08 January 2026

Other Matters

Libraries and Family Hubs: A Vision for Community Spaces

The council is continuing to integrate library services with Family Hubs, aiming to create multi-functional community spaces. Projects are nearing completion at Temple Hill and Cranbrook, with Sittingbourne expected to finish in February. Works are also set to begin at Queenborough and Clifton libraries. This approach seeks to expand the library network and incorporate other essential services.

Trading Standards Tackles Scams and Counterfeits

Trading Standards officers have been active in protecting consumers. Recent campaigns have focused on heating hazards, electrical gifts, and counterfeit toys, with strong engagement seen across multiple channels, including a new TikTok channel. The department also supported BBC Scam Safe Week and successfully prosecuted three fraudsters involved in solar energy sales.

Environmental Initiatives: From Windmills to Water Quality

Achievements in the environment portfolio include Drapers Windmill retaining its Grade II status and eight country parks holding onto their Green Flag Awards. The Solar Together Kent and Medway scheme has also seen success. Looking ahead, proposals for a lorry levy on the Kent road network are being discussed, and the council is committed to holding water companies accountable for water quality.

Education and Skills: Supporting Learners and Addressing SEND Needs

The education landscape is evolving, with discussions around mainstream and special educational needs (SEND). The high needs budget remains in overspend, and work is underway to address this. The council is also focused on expanding provision for SEND, with plans for additional places and ongoing work to support schools through upcoming reforms.

Supporting Vulnerable Children: Fostering and Children's Homes

Integrated Children's Services are progressing with plans to bring children's homes back in-house. The Run film, designed to promote fostering, has been launched, and visits to the Kent County Council Youth Group and the Virtual School Under-16s Awards highlight the ongoing commitment to supporting young people.

Economic Development: International Rail and Business Support

Progress is being made on international rail services, and the Kent Property Market Report has been launched. A new in-house visitor and inward investment service has been established. The No Use Empty programme has successfully brought 128 properties back into use, and the Skills Bootcamp has seen nearly 200 learners enrolled.

Brand Kent: A Unified Approach to Business and Tourism

The council is developing a unified vision for Brand Kent, aiming to market the county as a premier destination to visit, live, work, and play. This initiative seeks to streamline inward investment, business support, and the visitor economy, creating a clearer and more modern approach to promoting Kent.

Local Nature Recovery Strategy: Protecting and Restoring Nature

The Kent and Medway Local Nature Recovery Strategy has been launched, providing a framework for protecting and restoring nature across the county. This strategy will feed into local plans and biodiversity net gain funding, ensuring practical delivery on the ground.

Playground Festival: A Celebration for Young Families

The Playground Festival is set to take place in May 2026, offering a 10-day celebration for babies, young children, and families. Over 150 events will be held across more than 20 venues in Kent, featuring international artists and promising a vibrant and diverse experience.

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a look at the meetings scheduled for the next 7 days:

• The Growth, Environment & Transport Cabinet Committee will meet on Tuesday 13 January 2026.
• The Policy and Resources Cabinet Committee will meet on Wednesday 14 January 2026.
• The Adult Social Care Cabinet Committee will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026.
• The Planning Applications Committee will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026.
• The Scrutiny Committee will meet on Thursday 22 January 2026.
• The Regulation Committee Appeal Panel (Transport) will meet on Friday 23 January 2026.