This week in Surrey:

Council Grapples with Financial Strategy Amidst Audit and Governance Review

The Audit and Governance Committee convened on Wednesday, January 21st, to tackle a range of critical financial and strategic reports. The discussions highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to manage its finances prudently, combat fraud, and ensure effective governance, particularly as it navigates the complexities of local government reorganisation.

Treasury Management Strategy Statement 2026-27

A key focus was the proposed Treasury Management Strategy Statement for 2026-27. This strategy is the bedrock of how the council will manage its investments and borrowing, directly impacting its financial health and its ability to fund essential services. The strategy prioritises security and liquidity over return, a prudent approach that aims to safeguard public funds. For residents, this means the council is committed to responsible financial stewardship, ensuring that taxpayer money is managed with care.

Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy

The committee also reviewed the updated Surrey County Council (SCC) Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy. In an era where public funds are under constant scrutiny, this strategy is vital for protecting the council's resources from misuse. Councillor Simon, presenting the strategy, emphasised a zero tolerance approach to fraud, stating, Where we find it, we will investigate it and we will sanction it to our very best ability. This commitment is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that money intended for services reaches those who need it most, especially vulnerable groups who are often disproportionately affected by the diversion of funds.

AP Commissioning for Children

An internal audit report on governance and commissioning for children's alternative provision (AP) was also discussed. While the report indicated that all 12 audit actions have been completed, the committee noted the ongoing need for robust monitoring. The potential use of an external system for real-time attendance monitoring of children in AP was raised, highlighting a commitment to ensuring that children who are not in mainstream education are receiving the support they need. This is particularly important for children who may be facing challenging circumstances, ensuring they have access to education and a pathway to future opportunities.

External Auditors' Annual Report 2024-25

The committee received the External Auditors' Annual Report for 2024-25. The report confirmed unqualified opinions on the council's financial statements, indicating sound financial management. Councillor David Lewis, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, commended the work, stating, based on the work performed, Surrey County Council had proper arrangements in place, managed the Council's finances, not just in the year 2425, but in prior years, it's enabled us to actually get to this position. This assurance is vital for residents, demonstrating that the council's financial reporting is transparent and reliable.

Mid-Year Complaints Performance Report 2025-26

The committee reviewed the Mid-Year Complaints Performance Report for 2025-26. While overall complaint volumes remained stable, the report highlighted a decrease in timeliness for stage two corporate complaints, particularly within education, where performance dropped to 54%. Adult social care, however, maintained strong performance at 99% within its six-month target. The report noted that 95% of financial redress payments related to education, primarily due to delays in SEND¹-related assessments. This directly impacts families seeking support for children with special educational needs, potentially leading to prolonged periods of uncertainty and stress.

Other Matters

• The committee also reviewed the SCC Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy, reaffirming the council's commitment to tackling fraud.
• Changes to the Standards and Conduct Framework for English Local Authorities were noted, including proposals to remove members' home addresses from published registers of interest. This aims to enhance privacy for councillors while maintaining transparency.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to discuss the disposal of council-owned properties. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Children and Families, Lifelong learning Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to consider proposals for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) unit at St Paul's CofE Primary School Nursery. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Fire and Rescue, and Resilience Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to review the Statement of Assurance for 2024-25. View the agenda.
• The Leader and Cabinet Member Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to discuss the final budget for 2026-27, proposals for primary school places in Reigate, and childcare arrangements. View the agenda.
• The Strategic Investment Board will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026 to discuss the capital programme and property acquisition. View the agenda.
• The Planning and Regulatory Committee will meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026 to consider a sand and gravel extraction site in Epsom and receive an update on the Minerals and Waste Local Plan. View the agenda.
• The Council will meet on Tuesday 03 February 2026. View the agenda.
• The Surrey Local Firefighters' Pension Board will meet on Thursday 05 February 2026. View the agenda.
• The Surrey Police and Crime Panel will meet on Wednesday 04 February 2026. View the agenda.

This week in Surrey:

East and West Surrey Committees Convene to Forge New Governance Structures

This week saw the formation of two crucial joint committees, the East Surrey Voluntary Joint Committee and the West Surrey Voluntary Joint Committee. These committees are tasked with establishing the foundational elements for future governance, including the formation of implementation teams and the development of programme structures.

The discussions centred on:

• Defining Operational Frameworks: Both committees reviewed their proposed terms of reference and terms of procedure. These documents are essential for outlining the committees' purpose, responsibilities, and how they will conduct their business, ensuring clarity and accountability from the outset.
• Planning for the Future: Consideration was given to future meetings and work programmes. This forward-looking approach is vital for setting clear objectives and ensuring a structured path towards achieving them.
• Establishing Implementation Capacity: A significant focus was placed on forming implementation teams and defining programme structures. This is a critical step in translating plans into action, ensuring that the necessary personnel and organisational frameworks are in place to manage future initiatives effectively.
• Developing Action Plans: The committees discussed the approach to developing implementation plans. This involves outlining the strategy and methodology for creating detailed plans to deliver on their objectives, a process that will directly impact the services and outcomes for residents.
• Appointing Key Roles: Both committees also addressed interim statutory officer designations for their respective shadow authorities. This is a crucial step in establishing the leadership and administrative capacity needed to move forward.

These committees represent a significant step in shaping the future governance of Surrey, with decisions made now having a direct impact on how services will be delivered and managed in the years to come.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources Decisions met, but no video was provided.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Audit and Governance Committee will meet on Wednesday 21 January 2026 to discuss the Treasury Management Strategy Statement, Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy, and internal audit reports. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Children and Families, Lifelong learning Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to consider the Surrey Children's Services Improvement Plan and the outcomes of the Surrey Youth Voice consultation. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to review the Surrey County Council Property Investment Strategy and a proposal for the disposal of land at the former Leatherhead Leisure Centre. View the agenda.
• The Leader and Cabinet Member Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Fire and Rescue, and Resilience Decisions will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 27 January 2026 to discuss a range of key decisions. View the agenda.
• The Planning and Regulatory Committee will meet on Wednesday 28 January 2026. View the agenda.
• The Strategic Investment Board will meet on Thursday 29 January 2026. View the agenda.

This week in Surrey:

Reigate School Places in Jeopardy: Cabinet to Discuss Future Options

The Surrey County Council Cabinet is set to discuss the future of primary school places in Reigate, with a focus on Reigate Priory Junior School (RPJS). The school's current location at Priory Park is deemed unsustainable, raising concerns for parents and the community. View the agenda.

• Uncertainty for Families: The potential relocation or restructuring of RPJS could disrupt the education of current and future students, causing anxiety for families in the area.
• Working Group: The Cabinet will discuss the terms of reference for a working group tasked with finding a viable solution for primary school provision in Reigate.
• Parent Concerns: A summary of a parent carer reference group is included in the report pack, highlighting the importance of considering parental perspectives in any decision-making process.

The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact the educational landscape in Reigate, particularly for families with young children.

Case Management System Upgrade: Direct Award to Liquidlogic

The Cabinet is also scheduled to discuss a direct award to Liquidlogic for improvements to case management systems used by Adult Wellbeing and Health Partnership (AWHP) and Children, Families and Lifelong Learning (CFLL). View the agenda.

• Vulnerable Populations: These systems are crucial for managing cases involving vulnerable adults and children, making system improvements essential for effective service delivery.
• System Improvements: The report pack includes information on system improvements for CFLL services fulfilled in 2025, and system 'C' AWHP improvements in 2025.
• Equality Impact Assessment: An equality impact assessment for the Single View Of A Child Programme is included, highlighting the council's commitment to ensuring that system changes do not disproportionately affect any particular group.

This decision could lead to more efficient and effective case management, ultimately benefiting vulnerable individuals and families in Surrey.

A217 Reigate Road Safety Petition: Cabinet Member to Consider Pedestrian Crossing and Speed Limit Reduction

Councillor Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, will consider a petition regarding road safety on the A217 Reigate Road, Sidlow. View the agenda. Residents are calling for a new pedestrian crossing and a reduction in the speed limit to improve safety for pedestrians and drivers alike.

• Community Safety: The petition highlights concerns about the safety of pedestrians, particularly children and the elderly, who may struggle to cross the busy road.
• Petition Response: The report, titled A217 Reigate Road Sidlow - pedestrian crossing speed limit reduction petition and response, details the background of the petition and the responses provided.
• Potential Outcomes: A new pedestrian crossing and speed limit reduction could significantly improve road safety in the area, making it safer for residents to walk and cycle.

This decision could have a direct impact on the safety and well-being of residents in Sidlow.

Other Matters

• The Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions met, but no video was provided. View the agenda.
• The Leader and Cabinet Member Decisions met, but no video was provided. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet received an update on the Delivering Local Government Reorganisation (DLGR) programme. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet discussed decisions taken since the last Cabinet meeting. View the agenda.
• The Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee discussed a serious case review regarding the death of 'Sarah', and the annual report of the Surrey Safeguarding Children Partnership¹. No video was provided. View the agenda.
• The Surrey Pension Fund Committee met to discuss investment performance, responsible investment, budget monitoring, and recent developments in Local Government Pension Schemes (LGPS). No video was provided. View the agenda.
• The Planning and Regulatory Committee met, but no summary or video was provided. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities Decisions will focus on the proposed upgrade to the Cobham Skatepark. No video was provided. View the agenda.

This week in Surrey:

Sara Sharif Tragedy: Council Faces Scrutiny and Calls for National Action

Following the harrowing Local Child Safeguarding Practice Review into the death of Sara Sharif, Surrey County Council is under pressure to address systemic failures and prevent future tragedies. Read the full story.

• Independent Scrutiny: An extraordinary meeting of the Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee will be held to scrutinise the review report in full, in public, on Monday 15 December.
• Expert Review: An independent expert will examine the culture, systems, and processes within the directorate, benchmarking against the review's 15 recommendations.
• National Advocacy: The Leader of the Council will write to the Secretary of State and local MPs seeking urgent national action on the review's recommendations.

Councillor Lance Spencer, who proposed the motion, emphasised the need for urgent action, independent scrutiny, and national advocacy to prevent similar tragedies. Councillor Liz Townsend described the review as deeply troubling and called for transparency in implementing changes.

The council voted overwhelmingly in favour of the motion, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the failures identified in the report.

Unitary Council Debt: Government Clarity Sought on Woking and Spelthorne

As Surrey prepares for Local Government Reorganisation[^2] (LGR), concerns are mounting about the debt burden in Woking and Spelthorne and its potential impact on the new unitary councils[^3]. Read the full story.

• Ring-fencing Debts: A motion was passed calling for the government to ring-fence the debts in Woking and Spelthorne and deal with them through further debt support.
• Asset Protection: The motion seeks assurance that assets from other districts and boroughs or the County Council would not need to be sold off to reduce the debts held by Woking and Spelthorne.
• Clear Path Forward: The council is urging the government to provide a clear path forward on the debt situation before the summer recess in 2026.

Councillor Catherine Powell raised the motion, seeking clarity from the government on how they intend to address the debt issues in Woking and Spelthorne, and support the soon-to-be-formed West Surrey Unitary being able to set a balanced budget for its first year of operation in 2027-28. Councillor David Lewis seconded the motion, emphasising the need for both West and East Surrey Unitary Councils to begin their existence on a firm financial footing.

The council voted to support the motion, highlighting the importance of financial stability for the new unitary authorities.

Surrey Pension Fund: Single-Purpose Authority Approved

The council has approved the creation of a single-purpose pension authority (SPPA) for the Surrey Pension Fund (SPF)[^1]. Read the full story.

• Independence and Governance: An SPPA would provide independence and improved governance, removing conflicts of interest.
• Transparency and Efficiency: The decision aims to enhance transparency, ensure operational efficiency, and promote local investment.
• Future Flexibility: An SPPA would offer future flexibility and position Surrey as a leader in potential LGPS fund mergers.

The council agreed that an SPPA would provide independence and improved governance, remove conflicts of interest, enhance transparency, ensure operational efficiency, promote local investment, and offer future flexibility.

Healthwatch Abolition: Council Voices Concern Over Loss of Independent Patient Voice

Surrey County Council has voiced its opposition to the government's plan to abolish Healthwatch[^4] organisations and replace them with a patient experience directorate within the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)[^5]. Read the full story.

• Independent Patient Voice: The council expressed concern that this change would remove the independent patient voice and democratic oversight of health services.
• Democratic Oversight: The motion highlights the importance of independent scrutiny and local input in shaping health services.

Councillor Trevor Hogg raised the motion, expressing concern that this change would remove the independent patient voice and democratic oversight of health services. The council voted to support the motion unanimously.

Other Business

• Cabinet Portfolio Changes: The council noted the leader's changes to cabinet portfolios, including the appointment of Helyn Clack as Deputy Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Lifelong Learning.
• Councillor Absence: The council agreed that Councillor Fiona White, Guildford West, would continue to be absent from meetings until May 2026 due to ill health.
• Political Proportionality: The council adopted the scheme of proportionality for the remainder of the council year 2025-26.
• Committee Appointments: The council appointed members to serve on the committees of the council for the remainder of the council year 2025-26, following changes to the political proportionality.
• Scrutiny Update Report: The council noted the headline activity of the council's overview and scrutiny function for the period.
• Amendments to the Constitution: The council agreed to a revised set of wording to the constitution and agreed to reinstate the working party on the constitution.
• Members' Question Time: Councillors posed questions to cabinet members on various topics, including school places, weed control, road safety, and the Surrey Property Group (SPG).
• Report of the Cabinet: The council adopted the report of the Cabinet meetings held on 28 October and 25 November 2025.
• The Health and Wellbeing Board and Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) are scheduled to hold a joint meeting. Items for discussion include the Healthy Surrey Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the impact of climate change on health, the Families First Partnership Programme, and medium-term planning for the NHS. Read the full story.

Upcoming Meetings

• The Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Leader and Cabinet Member Decisions will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth Decisions will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee will meet on Monday 15 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Surrey Pension Fund Committee will meet on Monday 15 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Planning and Regulatory Committee will meet on Wednesday 17 December 2025. View the agenda.
• The Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities Decisions will meet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. View the agenda.