Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: July 8, 2025

Purpose: • Cabinet received a report in October 2024 in respect of the developing and increasing adverse financial position in Children’s Social Care. • Cabinet received a further report in January 2025 providing an update position and outlining a medium to longer term service transformation / transition plan. • Upon receiving the report in January 2025, Cabinet agreed to support the funding for a transition plan to manage demand and associated spend. • Since the report presented in January, the number of Children Looked After has reduced. • Since the report presented in January 2025 the confirmed overspend position for 2024/25 reduced. • An Accelerated Improvement Group (AIG) was established and continues to operate. • Children’s Services (Social Care) has been restructured to support more focussed care planning and de-escalation of need. • The broader Children’s Services system is being reviewed to ensure a “road map” in line with the Marmot principles and longer-term vision of the Council.

Content:            Cabinet agreed to: ·         Acknowledge the work that had been carried out and continues to be carried out within the service, and via the auspices of AIG, to achieve a reduction of demand and financial recovery in the short, medium and long term. ·         Accept further update reports outlining ongoing work and impact relating to longer term demand management and the development of the transition planning.     REASON FOR DECISION: As set out in the report. CONSULTATION: As set out in the report. MEMBERS’ INTERESTS: None