The County Council of Oxfordshire is scheduled to meet on Tuesday 3 November 2026. The agenda includes a review of the Youth Justice Annual Plan, consideration of committee vacancies, and the approval of the calendar of meetings for the upcoming civic year. Several motions are also scheduled for discussion, covering topics such as ecological emergencies, road maintenance, e-bike safety, men's mental health, and violence against women and girls.

Youth Justice Annual Plan 2026-2029

A significant item on the agenda is the proposed Oxfordshire Youth Justice Service (YJS) Annual Plan for 2026–2029. This plan outlines the statutory youth justice strategy for Oxfordshire, detailing how partners will collaborate to deliver a child-centred, preventative, and evidence-led approach. The report, presented by the Director of Children's Services, aims to secure approval for the plan and to note its strategic priorities, governance arrangements, and performance focus for the three-year period. The plan reflects national reforms and local ambitions to reduce first-time entrants to the youth justice system, decrease reoffending, minimise the use of custody, address disproportionality, strengthen diversionary measures, and improve outcomes for children, victims, and communities. The plan is a requirement under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998¹.

Motions for Discussion

Several motions have been submitted for consideration by the Council:

Ecological Emergency in Oxfordshire

Councillor Emma Markham has put forward a motion to recognise an Ecological Emergency in Oxfordshire and to make ecological recovery a strategic priority for the Council. The motion highlights the UK's status as one of the most nature-depleted countries and the critical decline in insect and wild bird populations, impacting food security and ecosystem health. The Council is being asked to embed biodiversity and nature recovery considerations across its policies and projects, and to support initiatives aimed at restoring habitats and increasing biodiversity.

Road Drainage and Maintenance

Councillor Tony Worgan's motion addresses the state of road gullies and drains across Oxfordshire. It notes the decision in 2016 to end annual inspections, leading to a deterioration of infrastructure and an estimated £31 million repair cost. The motion calls for resources to be provided for regular gully inspections and for future budgets to account for the need for further capital investment in repairs.

Illegally Modified E-bikes and E-scooters

Councillor Brad Baines has proposed a motion concerning the risks posed by illegally modified e-bikes, mopeds, and private e-scooters. The motion expresses concern over public safety and calls for stronger action against those who profit from or tacitly support the use of such vehicles. It seeks to raise awareness of the legal position, work with hired e-scooter providers, and urge the Secretary of State for Transport and the Chief Constable to strengthen powers and enforcement.

Men's Mental Health Awareness

Councillor James Plumb's motion focuses on tackling men's mental health. It notes that suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 and that men are less likely to seek help. The motion proposes using November, including 'Movember', to promote men's mental health awareness, review the accessibility of commissioned mental health services for men, and consider supporting male-specific peer support provision. It also calls for the Leader to write to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.

Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)

Councillor Kate Gregory has submitted a motion to reaffirm the Council's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. The motion highlights the widespread nature of VAWG, the role of online platforms, and specific vulnerabilities faced by minority ethnic and LGBT+ women. It also references concerns raised by a HMICFRS inspection into Thames Valley Police's handling of rape investigations. The Council is being asked to call for stronger national action and seek assurances from the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner regarding improvements in investigations and specialist resources.

Committee Vacancies and Calendar of Meetings

The Council is also scheduled to consider filling vacancies on the Planning and Regulation Committee and the Pension Fund Committee. Additionally, the calendar of meetings for the 2027-28 civic year will be presented for approval.