The Council of Barnet met on Tuesday 15 October 2024, discussing a range of issues including the administration's achievements, the government's decision to change winter fuel payments, and the outcome of Ofsted inspections for children's services. Key decisions included the approval of the administration's motion celebrating their achievements and the rejection of the opposition's motion regretting the government's decision on winter fuel payments.

Administration Achievements Celebrated

Councillor Sue Baker's motion celebrating the Labour administration's achievements was carried by 36 votes to 16. The motion highlighted a range of improvements since May 2022, including fixing the CCTV system, reintroducing the free community skips programme, regular street deep cleans, and a £97 million programme to repair roads and pavements. It also noted the delivery of over 1,200 electric vehicle charging points, the UK's first disability and neurodiversity inclusive playground, and the planting of over 1,000 trees. The motion also contrasted these achievements with the previous Conservative administration's record, which it described as wasted years and an autopilot approach that led to missed opportunities and weaker financial control. The council resolved to continue building a fairer brighter Barnet while maintaining low council tax and putting the local authority on a sustainable financial footing.

Winter Fuel Payments and Pensioner Concerns

A motion proposed by Councillor Richard Cornelius, regretting the government's decision to change winter fuel payments, was lost by 15 votes to 36. Councillor Cornelius argued that the decision would punish Barnet's pensioners and expressed shame at the Labour government's actions. He highlighted concerns that linking payments to Pension Credit would disproportionately affect vulnerable individuals who may not claim benefits, and that many homes in Barnet are difficult to heat.

In response, Councillor Barry Rawlings, Leader of the Council, stated that the government's decision was a difficult but necessary one to address a £22 billion black hole in national finances. He emphasised that pensioners would still receive an increase in their state pension, amounting to over £450 a year, and that the council was actively working to ensure eligible residents claimed Pension Credit and other benefits. Councillor Alison Moore, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, added that the council was providing face-to-face support and promoting benefits calculators to help residents access financial assistance.

Ofsted Inspection of Children's Services

The Council noted the outcome of Ofsted's inspection of children and families services, which was described as a positive story by Councillor Pauline Coakley Webb, Cabinet Member for Family Friendly Barnet. While three out of four areas were rated as Good, Councillor David Longstaff expressed surprise that the overall rating was not higher, given the significant improvements made. He acknowledged the hard work of the staff and the positive experiences of children in care, but felt the inspection's outcome did not fully reflect the dedication and progress of the department. The Council resolved to write to the Secretary of State for Education to express thanks for the decision to end one- and two-word Ofsted judgements, which they believed oversimplified school performance and could be detrimental to pupils, parents, and teachers.

Other Matters Discussed

The Council also discussed and approved several other items:

• Constitution Review: Amendments to the Council's constitution were approved, with the exception of those relating to the Local Pension Board, which will be considered at a future meeting.
• Fees and Charges 2025/26: The Council noted proposed non-executive fees and charges for 2025/26 and delegated authority for consultation on these to the Chief Financial Officer.
• Chief Officer Appointments: The appointment of Craig Miller as Executive Director Environment, the designation of Dr Janet Djomba as Director of Public Health, and the appointment of Naisha Polaine as Executive Director Growth were noted and approved.
• Administrative Matters: Changes to committee appointments, nominations to outside bodies, and the draft calendar of meetings for 2025/26 were noted and approved.

The meeting concluded with the passing of the administration's motion celebrating their achievements and the rejection of the opposition's motion regretting the government's decision on winter fuel payments.