Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: January 21, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 11.1     CHILDREN’S WELLBEING AND SCHOOLS BILL   As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.1 was moved by Councillor Sunderland and seconded by Councillor Stubbs.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment A) was moved by Councillor Poulsen and seconded  by Councillor Pollard.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  a second amendment (additional published papers Amendment B) was moved by Councillor Duffy and seconded by Councillor Hinchcliffe.   Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment B as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council notes and welcomes:   ·         The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill 2024-25 introduced on 17 December 2024. It is bill 151 of the 2024-25 parliamentary session. The bill was listed for second reading on 8 January 2025.   ·         Council further welcomes the intention of the bill to improve the safeguarding of children (such as in care institutions and schools), to raise educational standards and to strengthen the power and accountability of councils around Social Care, Safeguarding, Admissions and School Improvement.   ·         Council wishes to ensure that the opportunities contained in the Bill to improve the safeguarding of children and young people and to raise the education standards of all our children and young people are implemented in a timely and collaborative manner ensuring that Bradford’s children and young people are placed at the heart of every change we will need to make.   ·         Council officers have already been planning around delivering statutory responsibilities as outlined in the bill but await confirmation of the amended guidance which will provide details of the standards and requirements that the council and partners will need to deliver. There is also a need to ensure that new duties are funded appropriately.   ·         Much of the bill builds on work already being done by teams across Children’s services – for example, the Virtual School works very closely with the Trust and other agencies to support Children known to Social Care and Care leavers; the Attendance and Safeguarding team already works extensively around elective home education; the Admissions and Sufficiency teams do extensive work with schools across the district on place planning and ensuring the right kinds of educational places for children with SEND; and the council is an active partner in the district’s school improvement networks.   ·         The opportunity of the bill to build on our work in these vital areas.   ·         Council notes that children’s and family services across the country have been badly affected by the Conservative government austerity cuts since 2010. Research commissioned by a coalition of charities including the NSPCC, Barnardo’s and Action for Children in 2022 found that early intervention support by councils was cut from £3.8bn to £1.9bn over 10 years and councils serving the poorest areas were hit hardest.   ·         Council welcomes other measures in the bill designed to support children and families, including the least well-off, such as the planned rollout of breakfast clubs and tighter restrictions on expensive branded school uniforms.   This Council therefore:   ·         Asks the Strategic Director of Children’s Services, in conjunction with the Portfolio Holder for Children & Families, to identify the opportunities and challenges in the bill so that Bradford is ready to implement the changes effectively when it is enacted in law in its final form. In doing so to hear the views of children and young people, partner organisations and the national Children’s Commissioner on the issues. ·         Asks the Strategic Director of Children’s Services to present a report to Children’s Overview & Scrutiny outlining the opportunities and challenges of the bill and Bradford’s readiness to implement it when it is enacted in law in its final form. ·         That the Director of Children’s Services works in partnership with the Trust to implement the plans for multi-agency teams to support families from early help to child protection. ·         That the Strategic Director of Children’s Services asks the Trust to continue to minimise the need for unregulated placements through the development and implementation of our sufficiency strategy. ·         We endorse a child friendly version of the bill if a version is provided and will work with children in care and our wider youth engagement forums to seek their views and work with them on implementation. To be actioned by:  Strategic Director Children’s Services/Children and Families Portfolio Holder     11.2    ACCOUNTABILITY IN PLANNING    As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.2 was moved by Councillor Neil Whitaker and seconded by Councillor Edwards.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment C) was moved by Councillor Ross-Shaw and seconded  by Councillor Shafiq.     Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment C as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council notes:   •        The Council is the Local Planning Authority for the District of Bradford and values the professionalism of the Council’s Planning Officers and Councillors who sit on our Planning Committees. •        A transparent and accountable planning process for a local area generates confidence in that process. The importance of community and democratic input into the local planning process and the responsibility of developers to engage communities effectively. Growing concern nationally over the contribution of the planning system in hindering economic and housing growth, with costs of development for major infrastructure projects in the UK often significantly higher than in Europe and beyond and successive governments failing to meet much-needed house building targets.   This Council believes that:   •        Bradford residents deserve a planning service that provides the best service possible for our district. •        The planning process must be as transparent as possible to ensure Bradford residents have full confidence in officers and councillors. •        Since 2010, significant cuts to local government funding have meant that many councils have had to reduce the numbers of staff working in the planning service. Years of public sector pay restraint has also made it more difficult to recruit planners to the public sector, making it harder to fill existing roles. •        There is a significant shortage of housing across the district, including affordable and social housing.   This Council resolves to:   •        Implement a range of measures to strengthen accessibility, accountability and quality in the planning process, as already agreed by the Planning Chairs & Deputies group: o   Webcast Regulatory & Appeals Committee meetings and review the potential to webcast Area Planning Panels if merged o   Introduce a mandatory Evolve course on planning for all members to undertake, as all councillors can play a role in the planning process whether or not they sit on a committee. o   Introduce enhanced training for planning committee members to reflect their greater involvement and responsibility in the planning process. •        Request the Assistant Director for Planning, Transportation & Highways write to members outlining the protocols on planning meetings and in determining additional information, and the reasons public comments were removed from the Planning Portal following the robust legal advice received and in line with other authorities like Manchester City Council, Nottingham, Bristol and Leeds. •        Request the Assistant Director for Planning, Transportation & Highways respond to Planning Reform Working Paper and any subsequent consultation that comes out of it, taking on board feedback from the Planning Chairs & Deputies group and the cross-party Local Plan group, with ultimate sign-off by the Portfolio Holder. All responses should take into account the balance between local democratic accountability and the need for an effective and efficient planning system that facilitates high quality development.   To be actioned by:  Strategic Director Place/Interim Director of Legal and Governance/Interim Director Human Resources   11.3    REAFFIRMING BRADFORD’S COMMITMENT AS A CITY OF            SANCTUARY AND ENSURING APPROPRIATE SUPPORT            FOR REFUGEES AND ASYLUM SEEKERS   As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.3 was moved by Councillor Saddiq and seconded by Councillor Uddin.   Following a number of speakers Motion 11.3 below was put to the vote, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   This Council notes that:   1.   Bradford is proud to be a City of Sanctuary, welcoming refugees and asylum seekers with compassion and dignity.   2.   Many refugees and asylum seekers, particularly children and young people, arrive in Bradford after fleeing conflict zones such as (but not limited to) Israeli Occupied Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Ukraine have experienced profound trauma, including exposure to mass violence, executions, displacement, and loss etc.   3.   Equitable access to essential services such as healthcare, mental health support, education, housing, and other services are crucial for the integration and well-being of those seeking sanctuary.   4.   Barriers to accessing these services disproportionately impact vulnerable individuals, undermining their ability to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to our community.   This Council believes that:   1.   Every person residing in the Bradford district, regardless of their immigration status, should have access to high-quality healthcare and mental health support, particularly in recognition of the unique needs of those who have endured severe trauma.   2.   Special consideration must be given to children and young people, who require immediate and tailored interventions to prevent further long term psychological and social harm. Ensuring they receive the support required to heal, thrive, and access opportunities for education and personal development.   3.   Ensuring equitable access to essential services aligns with Bradford’s values as a City of Sanctuary and our commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of all residents.   4.   This Council remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring that Bradford continues to be a place of safety, compassion, and opportunity for all who seek sanctuary.   This Council resolves to:   1.   Reaffirm Bradford’s status as a City of Sanctuary and renew its commitment to supporting refugees and asylum seekers within the district.   2.   Continue to foster a non-partisan and inclusive approach in all discussions and actions related to the welfare of refugees and asylum seekers with all stakeholders.   3.   Work in partnership with all relevant local health services, education providers, charities, and community groups to ensure: a. Refugees and asylum seekers have equitable access to GPs, mental health support, and other essential healthcare services. b. Targeted mental health support is made available, particularly for children and young people who have experienced trauma and violence. c. Language and cultural barriers to accessing services are addressed, including the provision of interpreters where necessary.   4.   Encourage more schools and youth organisations to provide trauma-informed care and additional educational support to refugee children and young people.   5.   Encourage local communities to join efforts in promoting a welcoming and supportive environment for all.   6.   Advocate for sufficient funding and resources from central government to meet the needs of Bradford’s refugee and asylum-seeking community effectively.   7.   Increase public awareness and foster a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers by celebrating their contributions to the community through events and initiatives.   8.   The Chief Executive to write to the Secretary of State for the Home Department and the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to:   ·       Highlight the urgent need for funding to enhance local services supporting refugees and asylum seekers.   ·       Advocate for a more humane asylum process that ensures timely decisions and respects the dignity and rights of individuals seeking safety in the UK.   To be actioned by: Chief Executive/All Strategic Directors     11.4    TACKLING EXCESSIVE A&E WAITING TIMES AT BRADFORD            ROYAL INFIRMARY     As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.4 was moved by Councillor Ishtiaq Ahmed and seconded by Councillor Saleem.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment D) was moved by Councillor Coates and seconded  by Councillor Pollard.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  a second amendment (additional published papers Amendment E) was moved by Councillor Ferriby and seconded by Councillor Hinchcliffe.   Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment E as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council Notes:   ·         The new Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said that the NHS is broken and going through the biggest crisis in its history. ·         14 years of Conservative and coalition governments have left the NHS in crisis, including rising patient demand, staff shortages and resource constraints, all of which contribute to delays in urgent care at every hospital in the country. Our two local hospital trusts are no exception as they work for patients in this challenging national context. ·         Extended A&E waiting times can negatively impact patient outcomes, cause undue distress to patients and their families and place additional pressure on NHS staff. ·         Despite these national challenges, hospitals and Trusts are accountable for delivering good quality services to their patients and they are able to take their own measures to improve their services. ·         The Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (BTHFT) embarked on an improvement journey over recent years ‘Delivering Operational Excellence’ which has included several specific measures to improve A&E performance at the BRI. Council welcomes that this has resulted in the BTHFT rising to among the best performing Trusts in the country on Urgent & Emergency Care. The most recent data shows its ranking for the week to 8 January 2025 is the 9th best out of 127 Trusts reporting nationally. ·         The Health and Social Care Act 2012 also places responsibility on local authorities to promote health and wellbeing, including through Health and Wellbeing Boards. ·         Promoting good health is a shared endeavour for all partner agencies in the district including the council, VCS and health partners. The council plays a key role in early help and prevention, through social care and Public Health and more widely through the whole range of council services. Council services ultimately ease pressure on the NHS. ·         We therefore welcome the new government’s recent additional investment in councils in contrast to the 14 years of Conservative and coalition austerity cuts.   This Council believes:   ·         Residents of Bradford district deserve prompt and effective emergency healthcare services. ·         Long waiting times for A&E treatment are unacceptable and must be urgently addressed by hospitals, supported by collaborative efforts between NHS Trusts, local authorities and national government. ·         Addressing staff shortages, improving patient pathways and investing in community care among other measures can alleviate pressure on A&E services. ·         Transparency in healthcare performance and clear communication with the public is vital in restoring confidence in the local health system.   This Council resolves to:   ·         Give the BTHFT Trust chief executive the opportunity to present to the Health and Wellbeing Board the Trust’s performance and improvement measures on acute and emergency care. ·         Ask the Health and Wellbeing Board to look at the district’s intermediate care offer and the use of the Better Care Fund to identify any potential opportunities for further improvements in easing pressures on acute and emergency care. ·         Request BTHFT Trust report to the Health and Social Care Overview & Scrutiny Committee providing an update on A&E performance at the BRI and the wider factors at play which are driving the increased pressures seen over recent years. ·         Continue to work in partnership with NHS services, Integrated Care Boards and community health providers to explore immediate and long-term solutions to reduce unnecessary A&E visits by enhancing access to GP, urgent care out-of-hours and other services. ·         Call on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to allocate additional resources and funding to the health system as a whole, including the NHS and councils for social care and public health, which alleviate pressures at our local hospitals and across the health system. ·         Request the council’s communications team continues to support the public awareness campaign run by the NHS and continues to broadcast our own messages about how to stay well and where to seek appropriate medical help. ·         Ask the Health and Care Partnership Board to bring a report to the Health and Wellbeing Board to update on performance in these services. To be actioned by:  Chief Executive/Strategic Director Adult, Social Care and Health   11.5    UPHOLDING EVERY CHILD'S RIGHT TO A QUALITY            EDUCATION     As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.5 was moved by Councillor Ward and seconded by Councillor Ishtiaq Ahmed.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment F) was moved by Councillor Ward and seconded by Councillor Islam.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  a second amendment (additional published papers Amendment G) was moved by Councillor Duffy and seconded by Councillor Hinchcliffe.   Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment G as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council believes:   ·         Every child has the right to a good education. ·         Giving a child the best start in life through their early years is key to giving them the best life chances. The council and our partners focus considerable resource into early years. ·         The Council does considerable work to ensure that all children have access to a quality education, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). ·         The Council does considerable work to support and challenge schools and academies to deliver school improvement and improve attainment. ·         This council welcomes the change introduced by the new Labour government towards a more inclusive education system and its ambition to introduce a more engaging and exciting curriculum to deliver the highest quality learning experience in schools. ·         Lessons and activities such as sport and music, art and cultural experiences play a very important role in engaging children in their learning and supporting their academic success. ·         In the national context of a children’s mental health crisis and challenges around school attendance particularly since the pandemic, the council is doing considerable work with partners including through the Bradford Attendance Alliance to support children and schools to achieve good attendance in line with the needs of the individual child. Work to date demonstrates that there has been a narrowing of the gap on absence between Bradford and national rates but we know there is still much more work for us to do. ·         The council’s specialist teacher and inclusion teams work closely with schools on an individual basis to attempt to find alternative solutions to permanent exclusions. Our Virtual School team is highly effective in specifically ensuring that any child known to Social Care is supported to avoid permanent exclusion. The council is part of a Complex and Vulnerable multi-agency group which works with schools and other partners to avoid, where possible, permanent exclusion for SEND/vulnerable pupils. ·         School Place planning is done annually to ensure that there are adequate places for all children from Early Years through to secondary school. For children with SEND, over 1,200 additional specialist places have been established since 2019.     This Council Resolves to:   Affirm the right of every child to a good education. Continue to build on the extensive work done by council teams and partners to ensure access to a good quality education for all children across the Bradford district, by committing to actions such as:   ·         Support children, families and schools to improve school attendance ·         Build on the work underway seeking to avoid permanent school exclusions ·         Continue to extend the resourced provision for SEND pupils within mainstream schools ·         Supporting schools to ensure that provision includes providing education for children with a wide range of needs through mainstream school special educational needs and also more flexible and bespoke arrangements in line with the child’s needs ·         Work with health partners to improve neurodiversity services for children and young people and address any related barriers to accessing a good quality education ·         The district’s health partnership working to address the children’s mental health crisis as expressed previously by full council ·         The council, childcare and education providers working in partnership to develop good speech and language skills in the early years as a foundation for future learning ·         The council and health partners supporting children and families on school readiness and early help services ·         Creating inclusive educational offerings, including continuing to roll out the Living Well Schools programme, making it easier for schools to remove health-related barriers to education and working directly with senior leaders to implement a whole school approach to health and wellbeing. This work includes ensuring that through opportunities such as poverty proofing in the school day we are aiming to mitigate the impact of social deprivation on the outcomes of children ·         As part of our child friendly Bradford district programme we are actively engaged with ensuring that all children across the district understand their rights of the child.   To be actioned by:  Strategic Director Children’s Services/ Strategic Director Adult, Social Care and Health     At this point of the meeting, under Council Standing Order 9.1.2 a vote was taken to re-order the business on the agenda to move Motion 11.7 (Supporting the call for a National Public Inquiry into Historic Child Sexual Exploitation) to be considered before Motion 11.6 (Education, Education and Employment).   Resolved-   That under Council Standing Order 9.1.2 the business on the agendabe reordered to move Motion 11.7 (Supporting the call for a National Public Inquiry into Historic Child Sexual Exploitation) to be considered before Motion 11.6 (Education, Education and Employment).   11.7    SUPPORTING THE CALL FOR A NATIONAL PUBLIC             INQUIRY INTO HISTORIC CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION   As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.7 was moved by Councillor Poulsen and seconded by Councillor Sullivan.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment I) was moved by Councillor Edwards and seconded by Councillor Ros Brown.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  a second amendment (additional published papers Amendment J) was moved by Councillor Hinchcliffe and seconded by Councillor Duffy.   Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment J as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council notes:   ·         Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is an abhorrent crime attacking the most vulnerable in our communities and has been condemned in this Council Chamber before in the strongest terms.  We will continue to do so.   ·         The official definition of CSE in the DfE Practice Guide is as follows: “CSE is a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs when an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity a) for something the victim needs or wants and/or b) the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. CSE does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.”   ·         Bradford district including Keighley have had a number of CSE cases over many years. New victims and survivors are always invited to come forward regardless of when the crime happened.  Operation Dalesway is still active today to support current prosecutions as well as investigate any new ones.   ·         In May 2002, 14 mothers and one father attended a meeting at Ann Cryer MP’s office. She promised the mothers that she would do all she could to help them. Without seeking publicity or fanfare for herself Ann Cryer was successful in bringing about two significant changes to the law under the then Labour Government. Grooming became a recognised criminal offence and, hearsay (where a girl makes an admission to a third party) was allowed to be considered evidence.   We are proud that a Bradford District Labour MP was at the forefront of combatting this evil crime.   ·         A report titled: Child Sexual Exploitation Thematic Review, commissioned in 2019 by the Bradford Safeguarding Children Board, subsequently replaced by the Bradford Partnership, was published in July 2021.  It looked at 5 cases in particular. It found failings in how these children were supported and often blamed for putting themselves at risk.  This report covered cases from a 20-year period from 2001. The content made terrible reading demonstrating clearly that children were let down by agencies like social services, health services and the Police, at the very time when they should have protected them.  An apology was given to all those who were let down on the publication of that report.   ·         There have been many valuable reports, reviews and investigations into Child Sexual Exploitation in Bradford over several years which have informed learning, namely:   ·         Two Serious Case Reviews – Jack in 2016 and Autumn in 2017 ·         Independent thematic review into Child Sexual Exploitation in Bradford in 2021 ·         In collaboration with the Independent Scrutineer, the Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee, led by the Conservative opposition, formed a working group to work alongside the Partnership and ensure delivery of the recommendations. ·         CSE and wider exploitation has been regularly reported to both Executive and subject to Scrutiny through Children’s Scrutiny.  It has also reported to all Area Committees with ward-based information about CSE.  In total since 2013, 70 reports on CSE have been taken to public committees. At these committees all partners have attended to answer questions. This includes social care, the police, health and the VCS. ·         As part of Operation Dalesway, running since 2013, 47 defendants have been brought to justice and received prison sentences totalling 535 years. ·         Bradford referred itself to the Professor Alexis Jay National Independent Public Inquiry on Child Sexual Exploitation (IICSA) and provided evidence.  As part of this, all Bradford’s data was shared from West Yorkshire Police with the inquiry ·         A call out was made to victims in Bradford district to come to confidential sessions, advertised widely, these were held as part of the IICSA process to encourage victims and survivors to share their experiences to the Truth Project. ·         The National Public Inquiry took 7 years, heard 7000 personal testimonies, and considered 2 million pages of evidence. It cost £186.6 million.  Bradford is featured 47 times in the National Inquiry.  Grooming is mentioned 740 times and Grooming gangs are mentioned 78 times.   ·         The last Government published the National Inquiry in 2022 and shamefully didn’t implement even one of the 20 recommendations in the subsequent years, much to the frustration of Prof Alexis Jay who said in recent weeks: “Victims "clearly want action" and do not need a new national inquiry into grooming gangs”   ·         We also acknowledge the brave local victims and survivors of CSE who have come forward now several times to provide evidence about their horrendous experiences so that firm action will be taken to prevent abuse to other children.   Council resolves to:   ·         Condemn all forms of Child Sexual Abuse as abhorrent and completely unacceptable ·         Ensure that the safeguarding of victims and survivors is central to everything that we do. ·         Adopt a trauma informed approach to safeguarding ·         Thank the new Home Secretary for putting actions in place as per the recommendations of the 2022 IICSA National Public Inquiry. ·         Submit all the Bradford district Child Sexual Exploitation reviews and investigations to the Government’s national Casey Review just launched. Providing whatever insight and information the Home Secretary would like to see about Bradford district. ·         Make sure with this submission that the Home Secretary knows that we will accommodate a visit from her at any time to Bradford to speak to the different agencies who safeguard children now and to meet with those who investigate historic crimes. ·         Work with Mayor Brabin and the West Yorkshire Policing Deputy Mayor Alison Lowe on implementing the West Yorkshire Strategy to protect women and girls. ·         Continue to work with and support all victims and survivors of CSE across the District, including providing therapeutic support for victims of historic crimes who are now adults.  ·         Support the Multi-Agency Exploitation (CE) Hub based in the Bradford Children and Families Trust which is a collaborative initiative that involves all key partners, including health and education, co-located with the police’s Child Vulnerable Exploitation Team. This hub delivers a coordinated response to exploitation through practitioner consultations, ongoing reviews of risk assessments, and direct support to children and families. ·         Continue doing training particularly in schools so that children are better protected.  ·         Support the Police in their activity to disrupt abusers before they can get to children. For example, tackling gaming centres where they are suspected of being used for exploitation or gang-related activity. ·         Commit individually as councillors to doing our training on this issue so that we remain aware of the dangers to our children from all forms of CSE. ·         Commit as councillors that we will always support the Police in pursuing perpetrators, no matter when the crime was committed or by whom. ·         Condemn politicians who seek to politicise this debate to further their own appeal to the electorate.  This does a disservice to the victims and distorts and misrepresents their voices. ·         Develop a Risk Outside the Home pathway and expand the hub to support children who have vulnerabilities that could lead to exploitation. ·         Be vigilant and aware of rising forms of Child Sexual Abuse to prevent children in the here and now becoming victims and survivors of the future, noting that most cases last year were family based abuse, online grooming and child on child abuse.   To be actioned by:  All Strategic Directors, Strategic Director, Children’s Services/All Councillors     Motion 11.6  EDUCATION, EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT   As set out in the published agenda Motion 11.6 was moved by Councillor Felstead and seconded by Councillor Pollard.   In accordance with Council Standing Orders 18.4  and 18.8  an amendment (additional published papers Amendment H) was moved by Councillor Imran Khan and seconded by Councillor Duffy.     Following a number of speakers in accordance with Council Standing Order 18.12 Amendment H as set out below was then put to the vote, was carried and became the substantive motion, was then voted on and was carried.     Resolved –   That with the addition and deletion of the appropriate words, the motion be amended to read as follows:   This Council notes:   ·         There are long-standing challenges in terms of the performance of the District’s economy, opportunities available to our residents and the impact that this has on education and skills attainment. ·         Whilst attainment does not match national performance considerable progress is being made in many areas and there are areas of strength in schools, colleges and the University that are potentially a real asset for local employers’ future workforce, although inequality of outcomes persist within the District. ·         New school and post-16 improvement partnerships have been initiated in the last year and have identified key focus areas for the partnership. Particular progress is being made in primary and post-16 outcomes in particular are demonstrating success, clear strategies are being put in place for secondary, however there are challenges around support and accountability in this phase with almost all of the secondary schools being Academies. ·         The proportion of primary students achieving the expected standard in reading, writing and maths increased by 1pp in 2023 and the District improved its percentile ranking from 76 to 71. Whilst the percentage reaching the higher standard declined marginally (0.2pp) national performance also fell by a similar percentage. ·         Bradford’s performance now exceeds the national average for phonics at the end of Key Stage 1. ·         Secondary – the district average for Attainment 8 remains low. English and Maths also remain low in terms of attainment of Grade 4 and 5 but provisional data for 2024 does indicate some improvement for both these indicators. ·         Robust support and challenge arrangements are in place for Local Authority schools experiencing challenges as part of an offer to all schools that also includes improvement, good practice, governor training, and inspection preparation. ·         We have made considerable progress in post-16 participation and outcomes - our NEET and Not Known rate fell to a record low of 4.4% in 2024. This was 1 percentage point (pp) better than national and a 2.4pp improvement on the previous year, moving Bradford up into the 3rd quintile nationally. Our average A Level grade has now matched national state school performance for the past two years and Applied General (such as BTECs) has a higher average grade than national. ·         Whilst the number of young people who attain a Level 3 (A Level or equivalent) by age 19 remains below average, the proportion of those who complete a Level 3 progressing into Higher Education is again better than national. ·         Through our Careers and Technical Education partnership and SkillsHouse partnership the Council has had considerable success in developing curriculum, pathways and opportunities for residents of all ages to develop skills that will enable them to be competitive in the workplace and to support local employers to grow and hire locally. ·         In 2023/24 through the SkillsHouse partnership we worked with 14,941 adults of which 12,463 were in learning, 4,012 accessed career Information, Advice and Guidance and 3,684 moved into a positive destination. Over 35,000 encounters were also delivered for young people through the SkillsHouse CTE partnership (an increase of 30% from 2022/23), this included 3,853 work experience placements, as well as outreach, careers education encounters, and information, advice and guidance ·         There is considerable demand for ESOL provision and this is an acknowledged barrier to the labour market. Across Bradford District last year there were over 4,000 starts o ESOL provision making it is the largest type of provision funded through the devolved Adult Education Budget. ·         As part of the SkillsHouse approach the English Language Advice Hub has successfully set up the Bradford District ESOL & Community Learning Consortium which is working towards an ESOL Strategy for Bradford District and a Community Learning Development Plan. The Hub has set up SPoCs (single point of contact) in each of the constituency area and offer an impartial and independent advice to residents for whom English isn’t the first language. ·         This Council values apprenticeships and the significant benefits they bring for young people, as well as people of all ages, and for employers seeking to invest in a skilled workforce for the future.   The Council resolves to:   ·         Continue to collaborate with Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire Mayor, WYCA and the other West Yorkshire Local Authorities across the strategic skills governance structures within the district to develop a model and implementation plan for the recent WY Skills System Review to realise the ambition of a “Region of Learning”. ·         Work with the West Yorkshire Mayor to co-produce a plan, including a timeline to address inequalities in educational attainment in our district. ·         Continue to lobby for increased education and skills funding levels to reduce inequalities of outcomes within the District and gaps to national performance, and to ensure demand is met for areas of high demand that are fundamental to individual success and high performing workplaces, such as ESOL, literacy, numeracy and digital skills.  ·         Wherever possible alleviate/mitigate barriers to participation in education and training provision for ESOL, such as caring responsibilities that disproportionately affect women and the distance to travel to an ESOL educational establishment. ·         Work with partners to effectively communicate the impact and success of our education and skills collaborations to support inward investment from private and public sources. ·         Finalise and implement a refreshed approach to delivering social value through our Bradford Council spend and ensuring this contributes to skills development and economic participation. This will include providing opportunities for our district’s young people with employment and training, including work placements, site visits and Apprenticeships. ·         Work with partners to maximise the opportunities created through the Get Britain Working White Paper and other devolved funding to support those furthest from the labour market, NEET young people, and residents with low or no qualifications to access high quality training and transition into good work.   To be actioned by:  Chief Executive/Strategic Director Children’s Services/ Strategic Director Corporate Resources      The time reached 10pm and a bell was rung in accordance with Council Standing Order 20.1.    In accordance with Council Standing Order 20.2 Motion 11.8 (Celebrating UK City of Culture 2025 and creating a positive legacy for our Place) and Item 12 (Salary Package for the Investment Manager – Property and Direct Private Markets within the West Yorkshire Pension Fund) were deemed formally moved and seconded and voted on without debate.   11.8    CELEBRATING UK CITY OF CULTURE 2025 AND            CREATING A POSITIVE LEGACY FOR OUR PLACE   Motion 11.8 was put to the vote and was carried.   Resolved –   Bradford is ready to celebrate our year as UK City of Culture 2025, creating unforgettable memories and experiences for our residents but also building momentum and using it as a platform to drive growth across the district.   As the only major designation in a year with no World Cup, Euros, Olympics, Commonwealth Games or similar level of event there will be significant national focus on Bradford throughout 2025 and we stand ready to maximise the benefits of this for everyone throughout the district.   Council notes:   ·   Bradford2025 is creating opportunities for residents of every ward, with exciting events happening across the district – capital and project grants, community activities, education opportunities available to all schools and education settings, and opportunities to volunteer and be a part of our year as the National City of Culture.   ·   The spectacular opening event Rise in City Park on 10 and 11 January featuring Dynamo and created by award-winning director Kirsty Housley.   ·   The successful launch of the UK City of Culture programme at St George’s Hall broadcast live across the UK on The One Show showing a wide range of national and international quality events across the district, from our moorlands to our towns and city, which are already experiencing huge demand. From the city centre open-air spectacular Rise, to the Railway Children returning to the tracks of the iconic Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, to Queensbury’s legendary Black Dyke Band performing with Richard Hawley at St George’s Hall – and many, many more incredible events – it promises to be a year to remember.    ·   The new national Brit School investment, due to open in the academic year 26/27.   ·   The announcement of £2m for a major Heritage Action Zone with Historic England, focusing on the ‘Old Town’ area of the city centre to work with building owners on restoring some of our key heritage buildings and deliver a cultural programme as part of UK City of Culture and a legacy beyond that.   ·   The Government’s additional investment of £5 million for the City of Culture Trust which was announced over the Christmas period.   ·   The recent announcement that the district has secured a £1m Arts Council funding award to support an ambitious cultural programme for people of all ages and backgrounds called ‘The Bradford Way’ to develop skills and grow creative small businesses as part of delivering a lasting legacy from UK City of Culture 2025.   ·   The award from the Cultural Capital Fund of grants to 21 organisations in our district to deliver projects that will increase the cultural infrastructure and enable more people, both residents and visitors, to access and participate in cultural activities during 2025 and beyond.   ·   The opening of the Peace Museum in Salts Mill and the refurbishment of Kala Sangam as the Bradford Arts Centre in addition to the major investment in the National Science & Media Museum, on top of the £2m district-wide capital investment programme through City of Culture, is seeing our cultural institutions invested in and getting ready for 2025.   ·   Bradford2025 is supporting strong and growing investor confidence in Bradford as part of a range of measures to build economic growth across the district, as seen in:     o     The opening of PwC’s office in One City Park, providing capacity for them to grow their Bradford workforce from 200 to 500 jobs.   o      The reopening of key streets in the city centre as our Transforming Cities work nears completion. The Transforming Cities project will deliver on its aims to create new public spaces, enabling more people to travel by foot, bike and public transport, improve air quality, increase tree coverage and greenery in the centre and encourage new employers and leisure facilities into the city centre.   o     The progress of our Shipley and Keighley Towns Fund programmes, including the completion of the Kirkgate Centre as a Sustainable Community Hub in the heart of Shipley, and the delivery of Provident Park in Keighley, creating jobs and a new Manufacturing, Engineering and Future Technologies Hub for Keighley College.   o     The successful re-election of Business Improvement Districts in 2024 in Keighley and Ilkley, providing business leadership and investment in our towns alongside Bradford BID in the city centre.   o     The securing of £30m for City Village through the English Cities fund and Homes England, which will help spearhead the next generation of regeneration projects as part of the first phase of this major investment for the city centre.   o     The delivery of a new platform at Forster Square Station, platform extensions at Shipley and the re-opening of the Bradford-Ilkley rail line, all improving our connectivity across the district and beyond.   Bradford has faced a number of challenges but we are confident that we are ready for the opportunities being UK City of Culture brings. Our regeneration programme will drive jobs and opportunities for people for years to come and help create a powerful legacy of lasting change for the district. It is vitally important we maximise these advantages for residents, businesses and cultural organisations as part of our longer-term culture and regeneration strategies.   Council therefore resolves to:   ·   Create a lasting legacy to being UK City of Culture from capital investment, increased positive profile nationally and delivering significant cultural impact across the district.   ·   Use being UK City of Culture to help residents feel proud of where they come from and connected with their communities and district, celebrating existing cultural and diverse assets as well as new programming.   ·   Work collaboratively with partners and the UK City of Culture team to make sure that people from across the country and the world have a positive experience of Bradford district next year.   ·   Position Bradford as a place of opportunity for investors throughout this year, to attract inward investment delivering jobs and growth.   ·   Give our business community a national shop window to attract further investors and customers and to ask our Invest in Bradford team to work with them to maximise this.   ·   Work with the new government to show that Bradford district is a place that is ready and able to be the next big economic growth opportunity for the nation.   To be actioned by:  Chief Executive/All Strategic Directors