Subscribe to updates
You'll receive weekly summaries like the ones below about this council every week.
If you have any requests or comments please let us know at community@opencouncil.network. We can also provide custom updates on particular topics across councils.
Weekly updates
YPSA Contracts Extended, ZEZ Changes Considered in Oxfordshire
This week in Oxfordshire:
Young People's Accommodation Contracts Extended Amidst Concerns for Vulnerable Youth
Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, has approved the extension of contracts for Young People Supported Accommodation (YPSA) for two years, ensuring continued support for vulnerable young people aged 16-21 in Oxfordshire. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
- Why it matters: This decision directly impacts young people who need support to develop independence skills, access education, employment, or training, and make informed choices about their future accommodation. Without these services, many young people would face homelessness or placement in more expensive accommodations.
- The details: The contracts, worth a collective annual budget of £1,996,000.27 for 2025/26, provide a mix of services, including shared accommodation, self-contained single accommodation, and accommodation for parents and children.
- The risk: The report warned that if the contracts were to end on 30 September 2025, many young people would have no alternative accommodation options, risking homelessness or placement in more expensive framework or spot placements.
- The providers: The council commissions the majority of its YPSA services from five providers: Connection Support, Homegroup, Stonewater, A2Dominion, and Response.
Zero Emission Zone Amendments and Traffic Management Changes Considered
Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, was scheduled to discuss amendments to the Oxford Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) pilot, traffic management in Wantage, and proposed speed limits in various locations. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Why it matters: These decisions impact air quality, accessibility, and traffic flow in Oxford and Wantage, affecting residents, businesses, and the environment.
- ZEZ Amendments: The proposed changes included removing the discount end date for Blue Badge holders, disabled tax class vehicles, ZEZ businesses' vehicles, ZEZ residents' vehicles, and hybrid taxis and private hire vehicles. It was also proposed to continue the current ZEZ charges indefinitely, instead of doubling them in August 2025 as previously planned.
- Wantage Traffic Management: Councillor Gant was scheduled to consider making permanent the existing traffic management restrictions in Wantage Market Place, which were put in place temporarily using an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order.
- Speed Limit Changes: Councillor Gant was scheduled to consider proposals to change speed limits in Minster Lovell, Kennington, and Chilton.
Hire Bike and Scooter Operations and People and Culture Strategy Under Review
The Performance and Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss hire bike and scooter operations in Oxfordshire, the Our People and Culture Strategy, and a business management monitoring report with a focus on adult social services. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Why it matters: These discussions impact transportation options, employee well-being, and the delivery of essential services, particularly for vulnerable adults.
- Hire Bike and Scooter Update: The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the Oxford e-scooter trial, which is currently due to end on 31 May 2026, and e-bike operations, which are currently unregulated in the UK.
- Our People and Culture Strategy Update: The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the strategy, which aims to develop an inclusive and empowering culture, enabling all employees people to be the best they can be to deliver excellent services for everyone the council serves.
- Business Management Monitoring Report: The committee was scheduled to receive a Business Management Monitoring Report (BMMR) with a focus of Adult Social Services, which included a summary of the KPIs.
Climate Action, Minerals and Waste, and Education Policies on Cabinet Agenda
The Cabinet was scheduled to discuss the Climate Action Programme, the Minerals and Waste Local Plan, and the conversion of Woodeaton Manor School to an academy. Cabinet
- Why it matters: These discussions impact the environment, waste management, and education for children with social and emotional difficulties.
- Climate Action Programme: The Cabinet was scheduled to receive a six-monthly update on the Climate Action Programme, including the adoption of a new Circular Economy Plan.
- Minerals and Waste Local Plan: The Cabinet was to consider the future of the Oxfordshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan, and were asked to approve the cessation of the preparation of the new Minerals and Waste Local Plan under the current plan-making process.
- Woodeaton Manor School: The Cabinet was scheduled to discuss financial and land agreements relating to the conversion of Woodeaton Manor School to an academy.
Audit and Governance Committee Focuses on Reorganisation, Treasury, and Fraud
The Audit & Governance Committee was scheduled to meet to discuss local government reorganisation, treasury management, appointments to outside bodies, and the counter fraud plan. Audit & Governance Committee
- Why it matters: These discussions impact the council's financial stability, transparency, and ability to prevent fraud.
- Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution: The committee was scheduled to note a report regarding the significant changes facing Oxfordshire County Council due to local government reorganisation and devolution.
- Treasury Management Annual Performance: The committee was scheduled to discuss the Treasury Management Annual Performance Report 2024-25, which provides an overview of the council's borrowing, investments, and cash flows.
- Counter Fraud Plan and Update: The committee was scheduled to receive an overview of activity against the Counter Fraud Plan for 2024/25 and the Counter Fraud Plan for the coming year 2025/26.
Upcoming Meetings
There are no upcoming meetings scheduled in the next 7 days.
Oxfordshire: School Catering Changes, SEND Funding Crisis Discussed
This week in Oxfordshire:
School Catering and Cleaning Services Face Potential Overhaul
The Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Friday to discuss proposed changes to school catering and corporate cleaning services, sparking concerns about the impact on service quality and staff. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Why it matters: These services directly affect the well-being of students and the cleanliness of council buildings, impacting both vulnerable groups and the wider community.
- School Catering: The committee reviewed a report highlighting the financial struggles of the in-house school catering service, which has struggled to break even since being brought back in-house after the collapse of Carillion in 2018.
- Increased costs due to inflation, Brexit, and the war in Ukraine have strained the service.
- The number of pupils eligible for free school meals has risen by 45% since 2019, further increasing demand.
- The report noted that government funding for Free School Meals (FSM) and Universal Free School Meals (UIFSM) has not kept pace with rising costs.
- Corporate Cleaning: The committee also discussed a proposal to outsource the council's cleaning service, which has faced operational and financial challenges since being transferred back to the council following Carillion's collapse.
- The service has struggled with sickness, absence, and vacancies.
- The council currently operates a hybrid model, directly employing some staff while outsourcing the remainder to Parker Contract Cleaning Limited.
- Two operating models were proposed: continuing the hybrid model or outsourcing the entire service.
SEND Funding Crisis and Free Bus Travel Debated at County Council Meeting
Oxfordshire County Council met on Tuesday to discuss critical issues, including special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) funding, free bus travel for young people, and a councillor parental leave policy. County Council
- Why it matters: These issues directly impact vulnerable children, families, and the accessibility of services for young people across the county.
- SEND Funding: Councillor Jane Hanna OBE put forward a motion addressing the ongoing crisis in SEND provision, highlighting the increasing financial strain on councils due to high needs deficits.
- Oxfordshire County Council's deficit on the Dedicated Schools Grant1 was £46 million between 2020 and 2024, and is projected to reach £127 million by the end of the 2025-26 financial year.
- The motion asks the Leader of the Council to urge the government to eliminate high needs deficits and deliver a functional SEND system.
- Councillor Liam Walker also proposed a motion requesting that the Leader of the Council reinstate the Cabinet Member for SEND Improvement as a standalone portfolio within the Cabinet.
- Free Bus Travel: Councillor Liz Brighouse OBE proposed a motion to address transport poverty among young people, referencing a 2025 report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, which found that young people's mobility is closely tied to long-term social and economic outcomes.
- The motion asks the Cabinet to consider a scheme to provide free or significantly reduced bus travel for children and young people up to the age of 18.
- Councillor Dan Levy proposed an amendment to the motion, asking the Cabinet to consider a scheme for the whole county, noting that it would require substantial funding from central government.
- Councillor Parental Leave Policy: The council considered a report recommending the approval of a parental leave policy for councillors, outlining entitlements to maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption leave.
- The policy aims to ensure that elected members are able to take suitable leave during the time of birth or adoption and that reasonable arrangements are in place to provide cover for portfolio-holders during any period of leave taken.
- Members entitled to a Special Responsibility Allowance (SRA) shall continue to receive their allowance in full during parental leave.
Council to Vacate Leased Property in Osney Mead to Save Money
Councillor Dan Levy, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation, considered a report regarding the asset rationalisation programme, specifically concerning a property in west Oxford. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation
- Why it matters: This decision could impact the delivery of frontline operational services currently housed in the property.
- The details: The council aims to release its leased estate to save money and optimize the use of its own freehold estate.
- The largest leased property, located in Osney Mead, houses two frontline operational services and costs over £100,000 per year in rent, plus an additional £142,000 in property costs.
- The proposal is to vacate the property and either refurbish existing council-held property or invest in freehold acquisitions.
- The saving is expected to be around £186,000 per year, plus future pressure savings of £30,000 per year and a capital saving of £213,000 from the current decarbonisation programme.
- The decision: Councillor Levy was asked to approve the plan and delegate decision-making on the purchase of replacement properties to the Director of Property and Assets in consultation with the Section 151 officer.
Remuneration Committee Discusses Chief Executive Appraisals and Devolution
The Remuneration Committee met to discuss the establishment of a Remuneration Sub-Committee for Chief Executive appraisals, a review of appointments to outside bodies, a report on gender equality and ethnicity pay gaps, and increasing the council's capacity to meet the commitments of the Devolution White Paper. Remuneration Committee
- Why it matters: These discussions impact the council's leadership, transparency, and ability to address inequalities within its workforce.
- Remuneration Sub-Committee: The committee considered establishing a sub-committee to handle the appraisal process for the Chief Executive, ensuring a thorough and fair evaluation.
- Gender Equality and Ethnicity Pay Gap: The committee was scheduled to discuss a report responding to questions raised by committee members relating to the Gender Equality and Ethnicity Pay Gap Report for 2024, which they considered in January 2025.
- Appointments to Outside Bodies: The Audit and Governance Committee was scheduled to consider a report at its meeting on 16 July 2025 on appointments to Outside Bodies2. The report was to be provided to the Remuneration Committee for information purposes. The report proposed that appointments to Category B bodies would in future be approved by the Audit and Governance Committee rather than by the Remuneration Committee.
- Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution: The committee was scheduled to discuss a report setting out how the council is increasing its capacity to meet the commitments of the Devolution White Paper3.
Upcoming Meetings
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management on Thursday, July 17th. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday, July 18th. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Cabinet on Tuesday, July 15th. Cabinet
- Audit & Governance Committee on Wednesday, July 16th. Audit & Governance Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People on Tuesday, July 15th. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
-
The Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) is a ring-fenced grant that supports local authorities in funding maintained schools and academies. ↩
-
Outside bodies are organisations that the council has some involvement with, but are not part of the council itself. ↩
-
The Devolution White Paper sets out the government's plans to devolve more powers and responsibilities to local authorities. ↩
Oxfordshire: Mental Health Hubs Under Review, Pension Performance Dips
This week in Oxfordshire:
Mental Health Hubs and Community Health Initiatives Under Review
The Health Improvement Partnership Board met on Thursday to discuss a range of topics aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of Oxfordshire residents, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups. Health Improvement Partnership Board
- Why it matters: These initiatives directly impact the lives of people struggling with mental health issues, those facing health inequalities, and communities in need of support.
- The details: The board discussed the role of Community Health Development Officers (CHDOs) in supporting community-level health, the impact of Local Area Coordinators (LACs) in building connected communities, and the progress of the Keystone Programme, which provides mental health hubs across Oxfordshire.
- Challenges: The report noted some challenges with the Keystone Programme, such as recruitment difficulties, securing accommodation for new hubs, and managing walk-in clients. It also highlighted that not all Primary Care Networks (PCNs) have adopted Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRs) 1 (Specialist Mental Health Workers).
The board also received a report from Robert Majilton, Healthwatch Oxfordshire Ambassador, highlighting key issues identified by the public, including challenges accessing GP services, concerns about pharmacy staffing and closures, and difficulties navigating urgent and emergency care.
Community Health Development Officers (CHDOs)
The Health Improvement Board noted the role of Community Health Development Officers (CHDOs) in supporting community-level health and wellbeing. CHDOs are funded by Oxfordshire County Council and hosted by district or city councils to cover areas where community insight profiles have been developed2. These profiles aim to understand factors influencing health and wellbeing in areas at risk of poor health or health inequalities.
The CHDO programme is considered a key component of the council's public health work to reduce health inequalities and a key enabler in the Marmot programme3. CHDOs act as connectors within communities, supporting the implementation of community insight profile recommendations through local action planning, organising partnership meetings, building capacity among local organisations, facilitating access to grant funding, and raising awareness of public health services.
Local Area Coordination (LACs)
The Health Improvement Board also noted the role that Local Area Coordinators (LACs) play in supporting prevention initiatives and building connected communities. Oxfordshire County Council has funded LAC posts in four areas, each with a population of around 10,000, initially focusing on areas where data suggested poorer health, wellbeing, and life outcomes, but not in the ten most deprived wards.
The LAC approach aims to foster community resilience and independence by connecting people with local resources and support networks. LACs are present and accessible in their communities, with no referral procedures, needs thresholds or time limits. They guide people to use their own strengths and connect with their community to resolve their issues, gaining confidence and resilience.
Performance Report
The Health Improvement Board received a performance report on key outcomes and supporting indicators within Oxfordshire's Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2024-2030. The indicators are grouped into the overarching priorities of Healthy People, Healthy Places (including healthy weight, smoke-free, and alcohol-related harm) and Physical Activity and Active Travel (including physical activity, active travel, and mental wellbeing).
One indicator was rated red: the percentage of physically inactive children (less than an average of 30 minutes a day). The report noted data quality concerns with this indicator and stated that public health would lead a Physical Activity Health Needs Assessment in 2025/26 to better understand the data and gaps in provision.
Pension Board Reviews Performance Amidst National Reforms
The Oxfordshire Council Local Pension Board met on Friday to review their annual report, business plan, and risk register, as well as several governance and administration policies. Local Pension Board
- Why it matters: The decisions made by the board directly impact the financial security of current and future pensioners in Oxfordshire.
- The details: The board discussed reforms to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) pooling, following the recent 'Fit for the Future' Consultation1, where central government advised funds that are part of the Brunel pool to find another pool to move to.
- Performance Concerns: The board reviewed the latest Administration Report, which noted that 71.2% of cases were completed within the Service Level Agreement (SLA) deadline, a decrease of 16% from the previous quarter. Contributing factors to the reduction in performance included a loss of senior administrators, an increase in annual leave taken within the team, and issues with the pension system requiring manual intervention.
Annual Report and Business Plan
The board approved its annual report, which will be included in the Pension Fund's annual report and accounts. The report highlighted the board's activities over the past year, as well as information on board members' attendance and training records.
The board also reviewed the Annual Business Plan for 2025/26, which outlined the key objectives for the Oxfordshire Pension Fund, including fulfilling fiduciary duty to stakeholders, administering pension benefits in accordance with regulations, maintaining a funding level above 100%, and ensuring sufficient liquid resources to meet liabilities.
Risk Register and Governance
The board reviewed the latest Risk Register, which identified risks to the achievement of the Pension Services objectives, categorised as funding, investment, governance, operational and regulatory.
The board also reviewed the Governance and Communications Report, which included a log of all regulatory and data breaches, and provided an update on compliance with the Pension Regulator's General Code of Practice4.
Upcoming Meetings
- Planning & Regulation Committee on Monday, July 14th. Planning & Regulation Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation on Monday 14 July 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation
- Cabinet on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Cabinet
- Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People on Tuesday 15 July 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
- Audit & Governance Committee on Wednesday 16 July 2025. Audit & Governance Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management on Thursday 17 July 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday 18 July 2025. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Remuneration Committee on Wednesday, July 9th. Remuneration Committee
- Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday, July 11th. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation on Friday, July 11th. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation
- County Council on Tuesday, July 8th. County Council
-
The Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRs) is a scheme that funds additional roles in primary care networks, such as mental health practitioners, to support GPs and improve patient care. ↩
-
Community insight profiles map assets, capture community insights, and detail data indicators to inform recommendations for enhancing community assets and development opportunities. ↩
-
The Marmot programme is based on the work of Sir Michael Marmot, who has highlighted the social determinants of health and health inequalities. ↩
-
The Pensions Regulator’s (TPR) General Code of Practice came into effect on 27 March 2024 and consolidates 10 of TPR’s existing codes of practice into a single code. ↩
Oxfordshire: Road Safety Delays, Crime Plan, Climate Action
This week in Oxfordshire:
Road Safety Improvements Delayed, Traffic Calming Measures Proposed
Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, was scheduled to review several traffic and road safety proposals, but the meeting was postponed. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Why it matters: These decisions directly impact the safety and accessibility of roads for all users, especially pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable road users.
- The details: The proposals included highway improvements on the A4165 Banbury Road and A4158 Iffley Road, speed limits on the A420 and Oaksmere, and traffic calming measures in Faringdon and Wheatley.
- What's at stake: The delay means that decisions on these important safety measures are postponed, potentially impacting road users in the affected areas.
Safer Road Fund Project: A4165 Banbury Road and A4158 Iffley Road
The proposed improvements, funded by the Department for Transport's Safer Roads Fund, aim to enhance safety and convenience for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users at priority junctions where a high number of accidents have been recorded.
Canada Lane, Faringdon: Proposed Waiting Restrictions & Traffic Calming
The report recommended approving the extension of existing 'No Waiting at Any Time' parking restrictions on the southern side of Canada Lane, and the introduction of a 'build-out' traffic calming feature on the southern side of Canada Lane adjacent to 'Devon House'.
Church Road, Wheatley: Proposed No Waiting Restrictions
The report recommended the introduction of three additional sections of 'No Waiting at Any Time' parking restrictions on the north side of Church Road in Wheatley. Wheatley Parish Council only partially supported the proposals, as they had concerns that there would be no parking available directly outside the Church of St Mary the Virgin for specific events, such as funerals and weddings.
A420 & Oaksmere: Proposed Speed Limits
The report recommended the approval of a 40mph speed limit on Oaksmere in Appleton, between its junction with the A420 and the new 20mph speed limit terminal, and a 50mph speed limit on the A420, between the existing 50mph limits at Tubney Wood and Parklands Manor (ex. Besselsleigh School).
Police and Crime Justice Plan Focuses on Prevention and Community Engagement
The Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed the Police and Crime Justice Plan for Oxfordshire, with presentations from Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley, Jason Hogg, the Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, and Chief Superintendent Benedict Clark, Local Command Unit Commander for Oxfordshire. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Why it matters: The Police and Crime Justice Plan sets the priorities for policing and criminal justice in Oxfordshire, impacting the safety and well-being of all residents.
- The details: The plan focuses on initiatives such as expanding the Rural Crime Taskforce, launching a youth intervention program to tackle knife crime, and continuing the rollout of the CCTV Partnership.
- Key quote: Matthew Barber stated that these initiatives were
already delivering improvements in public safety, victim outcomes, and community confidence.
- Neighbourhood Policing: The report stated that Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NHPTs) remain the visible face of policing in Thames Valley - focused on engaging communities, preventing crime, and solving local problems.
- Project Vigilant: The report stated that Project Vigilant continued to play a vital role in safeguarding women and girls across Thames Valley's night-time economy.
- Rural Crime: The presentation stated that the TVP Rural Crime Taskforce is increasing in size in October to 3 Sgts and 21 PC's, this will give coverage of 7 days a week 0800hrs till 0200hrs.
Council Responds to Citizens Assembly Recommendations on Climate Change
The Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee also discussed the council's response to the recommendations of the Citizens Assembly on Climate Change. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Why it matters: The Citizens Assembly recommendations provide a roadmap for reducing carbon emissions from surface transport in Oxfordshire, addressing a critical issue for the future of the county.
- The details: The recommendations cover topics such as reducing the need to travel, prioritising active travel and public transport, incentivising the uptake of electric vehicles, and improving the efficiency of freight and logistics.
- Council Response: The council stated that it supported the overall aims of the recommendations and was already taking action in many of the areas identified.
Oxfordshire Employment Service Helps People with Disabilities Find Work
The People Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed a report on the Oxfordshire Employment Service, which helps people with long-term health needs or disabilities find and keep employment. People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Why it matters: The Oxfordshire Employment Service provides vital support to people with disabilities, helping them to achieve their potential and contribute to the economy.
- The details: The service uses a five-stage supported employment model, including customer engagement, vocational profiling, employer engagement, job matching, and in-work support and career development.
- Success Stories: The report pack included case studies of people who have been supported by Oxfordshire Employment, including 'J', who has Asperger's Syndrome, and 'T', who had not been able to sustain work for 10 years due to multiple physical health challenges.
- Supported Internships: In 2023–2024, 52% of completing interns received employment offers, higher than the national average of 36%.
- Connect to Work Programme: Oxfordshire County Council has been designated as one of 43 Accountable Bodies across England for the Connect to Work (CtW) programme, a nationally prescribed and locally commissioned supported employment programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Health & Wellbeing Board Focuses on Learning Disabilities, Homelessness, and Health Inequalities
The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board met to discuss a range of critical issues, including the Oxfordshire Learning Disability Plan, homelessness, and health inequalities. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
- Oxfordshire Learning Disability Plan: The board discussed the Oxfordshire Learning Disability Plan 2025-2035, a 10-year strategy for adults with learning disabilities. The plan has four key themes: Having a life, Health and wellbeing, Having a place to live, and Homes not hospitals.
- Homelessness Update: The board received an update on work to address homelessness across Oxfordshire, during a period of rising homelessness and temporary accommodation use.
- Health Inequalities Research: The board received an update on progress in developing a place-based approach to research in Oxfordshire, including the forthcoming research strategy for Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) and current work of the Oxfordshire Community Research Network (OCRN).
- Better Care Fund Plan: The Oxfordshire system is directly aligning Better Care Fund (BCF) spend with Urgent and Emergency Care funding and makes the case that a reduction in non-elective bed days can and should fund some of the services involved in reduction of non-elective admissions.
Upcoming Meetings
- Health Improvement Partnership Board on Thursday, July 3rd, to discuss updates on mental health services, community health initiatives, and a performance report on key health indicators. Health Improvement Partnership Board
- Local Pension Board on Friday, July 4th, to review its activities over the past year, approve its annual report, and discuss the annual business plan, risk register, governance and communications, administration, and policies. Local Pension Board
- County Council on Tuesday, July 8th. County Council
- Remuneration Committee on Wednesday, July 9th. Remuneration Committee
- Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday, July 11th. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation on Friday, July 11th. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation
Dementia Support Secured, Congestion Charge Consultation Approved
This week in Oxfordshire:
Dementia Support Services Secured for the Next Decade
Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adults, has approved the commissioning of a dementia support service for the next ten years, starting January 1, 2026. The decision, made at the Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults meeting on June 17th, aims to provide sustainable, high-quality care for the growing number of people living with dementia in Oxfordshire. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults
- Why it matters: With an estimated 9,662 people in Oxfordshire potentially living with dementia, this service is crucial for providing support and improving the quality of life for individuals and their carers.
- The details: The new contract, worth £913,623 per year, includes funding for an Admiral Nurse1, specialist dementia nurses who provide support and expertise to families affected by dementia. The service will focus on empowering individuals, promoting early diagnosis, and reducing the use of statutory services.
- What's at stake: Without this service, the council would fail to meet its obligations under the Care Act 2014, which requires them to provide meaningful care for every person diagnosed with dementia.
Congestion Charge Consultation Approved Amid Traffic Filter Delay
The Cabinet has authorised a public consultation on a temporary congestion charging scheme for Oxford, aiming to mitigate the impact of the Botley Road closure and the resulting delay in implementing the traffic filter trial. The decision was made at the Cabinet meeting on June 17th. Cabinet
- Why it matters: The extended closure of Botley Road has exacerbated congestion in Oxford, impacting residents, businesses, and the environment.
- The details: The proposed congestion charge would utilise the systems and infrastructure already developed for the traffic filter trial. The Cabinet has also requested the development of an 'income spending strategy' to focus net surplus income on reducing bus travel costs, including potential park-and-ride incentives.
- Public Reaction: Councillor David Henwood questioned the evidence for congestion in areas proposed for the congestion charge and suggested removing the Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) scheme. Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, defended the LTNs, stating they are council policy and support the council's vision to reduce car trips and prioritise sustainable transport.
Capital Programme Boosts Traffic Congestion Improvements
The Cabinet has approved a £5.906m Traffic Congestion Improvement Fund (TCIF) programme, including an increased budget for the Access to Witney scheme and the inclusion of the Benson Lane Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) in the capital programme. Cabinet
- Why it matters: These investments aim to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance public transport options across Oxfordshire.
- The details: The TCIF programme includes a range of measures, such as signals upgrades, pedestrian crossings, bus priority lanes, and feasibility work for junction improvements. The Access to Witney Scheme received a budget increase of £1.800m, bringing the total budget to £26.825m.
- Benson Lane BSIP: The inclusion of the Benson Lane Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) in the capital programme, with an indicative budget of £1.232m, will improve bus journey times and service reliability in Crowmarsh Gifford.
Other Matters
- Home to School Transport & Post 16 Travel Policies: The Cabinet endorsed recommendations following analysis of public consultation feedback regarding the Home to School Travel and Transport Policy 2025/26 onwards for Reception to Year 11. They also agreed to adopt the proposed Post 16 Transport Policy Statement Academic Year 2026/27, which reflects the consultation analysis recommendations to not introduce a contribution charge for those eligible for support under this policy. Cabinet
- Planning & Regulation Committee: The Planning & Regulation Committee meeting scheduled for Monday 16 June 2025 was cancelled. Planning & Regulation Committee
Upcoming Meetings
- Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday, June 25th, to discuss the Police and Crime Justice Plan for Oxfordshire, and the council's response to the recommendations of a citizens assembly. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- People Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Thursday, June 26th, to discuss the Oxfordshire Employment Service, and to review their forward work plan and recommendation tracker. People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board on Thursday, June 26th, to discuss a range of topics, including homelessness, the Better Care Fund, the Learning Disability Plan, health inequalities research, and updates from Healthwatch Oxfordshire and various partnership boards. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
- Health Improvement Partnership Board on Thursday, July 3rd. Health Improvement Partnership Board
- Local Pension Board on Friday, July 4th. Local Pension Board
-
Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses who provide support and expertise to families affected by dementia. ↩
Recent meetings
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action - Thursday, 24 July 2025 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Friday, 18 July 2025 10.00 am
The Performance and Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to discuss a hire bike and scooter update, the Our People and Culture Strategy, and a business management monitoring report with a focus on adult social services. The committee was also expected to review the action and recommendation tracker, the forward work plan, and responses to scrutiny recommendations.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management - Thursday, 17 July 2025 10.00 am
Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, was scheduled to discuss a number of transport-related issues at a meeting. These included proposed amendments to the Oxford Zero Emission Zone pilot, traffic management restrictions in Wantage, and several proposed changes to speed limits and crossings in various locations. The report pack for the meeting included responses to consultations, financial implications, and legal and equality considerations for each item.
Audit & Governance Committee - Wednesday, 16 July 2025 1.00 pm
The Audit & Governance Committee of Oxfordshire County Council was scheduled to meet on 16 July 2025 to discuss a range of topics, including local government reorganisation, treasury management, appointments to outside bodies, and the counter fraud plan. The committee was also expected to review the ombudsman annual report and the health and safety annual report.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People - Tuesday, 15 July 2025 3.00 pm
This meeting of the Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People was scheduled to discuss declarations of interest, questions from county councillors, petitions and public addresses, and the extension of contracts for Young People Supported Accommodation. Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, was expected to delegate authority to the Director of Children's Services to extend the YPSA contracts. The meeting was open to the public, with options for in-person or virtual attendance.
Cabinet - Tuesday, 15 July 2025 2.00 pm
Here is a summary of the topics the Oxfordshire Council Cabinet intended to discuss on 15 July 2025. The meeting included discussion of the Climate Action Programme, the Minerals and Waste Local Plan, and the conversion of Woodeaton Manor School to an academy. Also on the agenda were the Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) Policy, the Connect to Work Programme, and the Oxfordshire Travel and Transport Citizens' Assembly.
Planning & Regulation Committee - Monday, 14 July 2025 2.00 pm
This meeting has been cancelled.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation - Friday, 11 July 2025 2.00 pm
The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation were scheduled to meet to discuss the asset rationalisation programme. Councillor Dan Levy, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation, was expected to consider a report about the vacation of a leased property in Osney Mead. The meeting was also scheduled to cover declarations of interest, questions from councillors, petitions and public addresses, and the minutes of the previous meeting.
Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Friday, 11 July 2025 10.00 am
The Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee were scheduled to discuss proposed changes to school catering and corporate cleaning services, as well as reviewing their work programme and responses to previous scrutiny recommendations. They were also scheduled to note the progress of previous recommendations and actions.
Remuneration Committee - Wednesday, 9 July 2025 2.00 pm
The Remuneration Committee of Oxfordshire Council was scheduled to meet on 9 July 2025 to discuss a number of issues, including the establishment of a Remuneration Sub-Committee (Appraisals) to handle the appraisal process for the Chief Executive, a review of appointments to outside bodies, and a report on gender equality and ethnicity pay gaps within the council. They were also scheduled to discuss increasing the council's capacity to meet the commitments of the Devolution White Paper.
Upcoming meetings
Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) - Thursday, 14 August 2025 9.30 am, NEW
Remuneration Sub-Committee (Appraisals) - Thursday, 14 August 2025 10.00 am
Resumed meeting from 15 July 2025, Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People - Tuesday, 19 August 2025 11.30 am