The Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee of Surrey County Council met on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, to discuss a range of critical issues affecting children and young people in the county. Key topics included the significant pressures on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) sufficiency, proposed amendments to the Home to School Travel Assistance Policy, and an independent review into children's services following the tragic death of Sara Sharif. The committee also reviewed performance assurance data and Ofsted reports for children's homes.

SEND and Alternative Provision Sufficiency and Unmet Need

The committee received an update on the significant and growing demand for SEND and AP provision in Surrey, which is currently outstripping local capacity. Councillor Helyn Clack, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning, highlighted that since 2019, over £260 million has been invested in creating additional SEND and AP places, delivering 1,724 places through 58 projects. Despite this, demand continues to rise, particularly for autism and SEMH needs. The report detailed a stark contrast between East and West Surrey, with West Surrey experiencing more systemic and sustained pressure across all phases, while East Surrey faces more targeted pressure at secondary transition points. The committee noted that while capital investment is crucial, it is not sufficient on its own, and a coordinated whole-system response is required. The report also highlighted that West Surrey has higher levels of deprivation, which is associated with higher SEND prevalence. The committee discussed the challenges of repurposing mainstream school buildings with falling rolls to create SEND satellite sites, noting that not all schools with latent capacity are suitable for specialist provision. The forecast for EHCPs indicates a continued rise, with West Surrey expected to see a greater absolute increase in demand.

Home to School Travel Assistance Under-16 Policy

Proposed amendments to the Home to School Travel Assistance Policy were scrutinised, aiming to ensure legal compliance and align with updated national guidance. Key changes included clarifying the definition of the nearest suitable school, with a focus on walking routes, and updating eligibility criteria related to Free School Meals and Universal Credit. The policy now explicitly states that travel assistance for Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) and Alternative Provision (AP) will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Concerns were raised by members regarding the potential impact on SEND learners, rural families, and those with English as an additional language. The committee also debated the reduction in the number of councillors on appeals panels and the process for seeking their availability. The proposed amendments were ultimately resolved with several recommendations for further action, including a review of feeder school impact on transport policy and a clearer statement on the system used for measuring walking distances.

Independent Practice Review

The committee received the final report from independent reviewers Jenny Coles and Nicky Pace, assessing Surrey's children's services and safeguarding partners following the death of Sara Sharif. The review found substantial improvements in practice, systems, and leadership, with recommendations being acted upon. However, areas for further development were identified, including enhancing two-way communication with schools, strengthening the role of schools as a strategic safeguarding partner, and improving the governance and strategic reach of the Surrey Safeguarding Children Partnership (SSCP). The report highlighted concerns from schools regarding perceived defensiveness in Children's Services, inconsistent responses to referrals, and the need for better communication about actions taken. The committee welcomed the report's findings and made several recommendations, including quarterly progress reports on the review's recommendations, collective review of restructuring risks, establishing in-person meetings with schools, strengthening the role of schools as a strategic partner, and encouraging secondary school representation on the SSCP.

Performance Assurance

The committee reviewed the Q3 and Q4 2025/26 performance assurance report, noting that while many indicators were rated green, there were significant pressures highlighted in areas such as Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) issued on time, repeat referrals to Children's Services, and the number of looked-after children placed out of county. Concerns were raised about the timeliness of initial child protection conferences and health checks, and the impact of concurrent changes within the directorate, including a reduction in the number of directors. The committee requested continued updates on capacity issues.

Children's Homes Ofsted Reports

The committee noted recent Ofsted reports for Surrey County Council-run children's homes. One home inspected in February 2026 retained its Good rating, while another inspected in April 2026 was downgraded from Good to Requires Improvement. An assurance inspection in March 2026 found no serious or widespread concerns regarding care or protection. The committee suggested these issues could be further reviewed by the Corporate Parenting Board.

The meeting concluded with thanks to departing members and a note of the next scheduled meeting on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.