The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee of Manchester Council met on Wednesday 7 October 2026 to discuss the city's recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly City, updates on youth services, and the Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy. The meeting also covered the quality and impact of children's services and an overview report.

UNICEF Child Friendly City Recognition

The committee was scheduled to receive a report on Manchester's recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly City in June 2026. This recognition acknowledged the progress made in improving the experiences, participation, and outcomes for children and young people. The report highlighted that this status is not an endpoint but the beginning of a sustained commitment to embedding a child rights-based approach. The committee was recommended to pledge to continue advancing children's rights and to request annual progress reports.

Youth Investment Fund and Manchester Youth Strategy Update

An update was scheduled on two key areas of work within the Youth, Play and Participation Service: the Youth Investment Fund (YIF) and the development of the Manchester Youth Strategy. The YIF programme aims to invest in capital improvements and new youth facilities across the city. Six modular facilities were being progressed, with one completed and others on site or awaiting permissions. The Manchester Youth Strategy, to be co-designed with young people, aims to set the vision for youth provision for the next five years, aligning with the council's statutory duty under Section 507B of the Education Act 1996. Initial findings from engagement with young people indicated that while Manchester is a diverse city with opportunities, young people face challenges in areas such as mental health, community safety, and access to trusted adults. They expressed a desire for places to go, people to talk to, opportunities for development, and a genuine voice in decisions affecting them.

Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027-2032

The committee was to consider the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027-2032. This strategy outlines nine pledges aimed at preventing unnecessary entry into care, supporting safe reunification, increasing regulated family-based and specialist homes closer to Manchester, strengthening provider partnerships, improving integrated commissioning, and ensuring smooth transitions into adulthood. The strategy's vision is that it takes a city to raise a child, ensuring children receive the right support and relationships at the right time and as close to Manchester as possible. The report detailed progress in commissioning, including the development of the Step Across pathway and a reduction in unregistered placements. The strategy proposed to increase the proportion of children in externally commissioned residential care living within Manchester to at least 50% by 2032.

The Quality and Impact of Practice in Children's Services 2025/6

A report was scheduled to provide an annual overview of the quality of practice delivered by Children's Services to children and families in Manchester. Key themes for discussion included the difference between reassurance and assurance, the evidence base for the impact of services, and the process of ensuring continuous improvement. The report was expected to address points raised during committee discussions, such as families returning to services, the response rate to the Annual Social Work Survey, staff satisfaction with the work environment, and the frequency of direct observations.

Overview Report

The committee was to receive an overview report from the Governance and Scrutiny Support Unit. This report typically includes a monitor of previous recommendations, details of key decisions due to be taken that are relevant to the committee's remit, and the committee's work programme. The report was expected to provide an update on actions resulting from previous recommendations, including the role of Ward Councillors in promoting fostering and the provision of Corporate Parenting training. It also listed key decisions relevant to the committee's remit, such as those related to the Manchester PlayZones Programme, the provision of youth services, and the establishment of a Greater Manchester Fostering Hub. The committee's work programme for upcoming meetings was also to be reviewed.

Ofsted Subgroup Minutes

The committee was also scheduled to receive the minutes of the Ofsted Subgroup meeting held on 22 July 2026. This subgroup had discussed Ofsted inspections of Manchester schools and daycare providers. The discussions covered inspection judgements, common themes arising from reports, and the council's support for schools and providers. Specific concerns were raised regarding inspections of Lily Lane Primary School, Ravensbury Primary School, and Old Moat Childcare. The subgroup had requested further information on the situation at Old Moat Childcare for a future meeting.