Purpose

To seek approval to submit a draft Plan to DfE, and delegated approval for the Director of Children's Services in consultation with the S151 Officer and Monitoring Officer to submit a draft plan to DfE to secure funding 

Decision

RESOLVED

KEY DECISION

 That the Executive:

a)       Approved delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer (and relevant statutory officers as required) and the Executive Member for Children, Education and Families, to finalise the Local SEND Reform Plan submission and any associated annexes or supporting documentation;

b)       Approved delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer (and relevant statutory officers as required) and the Executive Member for Children, Education and Families, to approve and submit the final Plan to the Department for Education.

Reason for Recommendations – The delegation of authority will ensure the Council, on behalf of the Local Area Partnership, can respond promptly to DfE feedback and meet the national submission deadline of 19th June 2026.

Alternative Options Considered – Scheduling full review and approval of the Plan at Executive on 9th June. Changes to the Draft Plan from the DfE may not be issued until 29 May so there would be a risk of submitting an incomplete Plan for approval on this date.