The Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel met on Monday 28 April 2025 to discuss childhood immunisations, the 0-19 Healthy Child service, departmental updates, and the Mini Musicians project. The panel reviewed immunisation uptake data, noting that Merton's rates are below national averages and that efforts are ongoing to address vaccine hesitancy. Updates were also provided on the 0-19 Healthy Child Programme, departmental activities, and the progress of the Mini Musicians initiative.

Childhood Immunisations

Fiona White from NHS (Merton) presented an overview of childhood immunisations in Merton. It was noted that while Merton's pre-school vaccination rates are slightly above the London average, they remain below the national average. Efforts are underway to improve coverage to meet the World Health Organisation's 95% target, with a particular focus on addressing vaccine hesitancy, which has seen a rise since the COVID-19 pandemic. The panel heard that community work, including 190 Conversations, is being undertaken to dispel myths and provide accurate information. Discrepancies in immunisation rates across London boroughs are partly attributed to vaccine hesitancy, with lower uptake observed in the north of the borough. Reasons for parents declining vaccines are multifactorial, including religious beliefs and concerns about vaccine safety. The panel was informed that practices have procedures to track missed vaccinations and offer flexible clinic hours. Additionally, a Tackling Vaccine Hesitancy Through Conversation Training programme is being implemented to equip staff with skills to engage parents. Ruth Eager from NHS South West London highlighted the role of community pharmacies in offering MMR vaccines in areas with low uptake.

0-19 Healthy Child Service Update

Hilina Asrress, Head of Public Health Services (CYP and Sexual Health), presented an update on the 0-19 Healthy Child Programme services. The report indicated that Merton's performance in mandated health visitor checks and the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) is generally comparable to or above London averages, though some areas require improvement. The service, delivered by Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) NHS Trust, is undergoing a procurement process for a new contract, with a detailed report to be provided in Autumn 2025. The panel noted that while the 12-month health visitor review coverage had slightly decreased, the two-year review coverage showed a significant increase. It was suggested that a dedicated report on childhood obesity be added to the forward plan for scrutiny.

Departmental Update

Bev Hendricks, Executive Director of Children, Lifelong Learning and Families, presented a departmental update. Key areas covered included Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with a forthcoming report on the SEND peer review and further work to address the needs of children with SEND. The panel was informed about the HMIP Youth Justice Inspection report, which is not yet available. Updates were also provided on ministerial visits, Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) figures, and children in care. The panel discussed school swimming attainment, with officers investigating reasons for lower attainment in Merton compared to national averages. Adoption numbers in Merton remain relatively low.

Mini Musicians Project

Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, Director for Education and Early Help, presented the Mini Musicians project report. The initiative, which began in January 2024 in 10 primary schools across Merton, aims to enhance music education for children aged 3-7. Mid-term data indicates a statistically significant improvement in musical achievement among participating children. Feedback from schools has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the project's impact on children's musical skills, confidence, and overall engagement with school. The project is a short-term initiative concluding in the summer, with plans for its legacy being considered, including making the scheme of learning accessible to all Merton schools.

Work Programme and Topic Suggestions

The panel agreed to defer the dentistry item to a future meeting. Members were encouraged to submit topic suggestions for the 2025/26 work programme, with a Topic Selection Workshop scheduled for 5 June 2025.