The Children and Young People Scrutiny Panel were scheduled to meet on Thursday 19 June 2025 to elect a vice chair, discuss ways of working, and decide on a topic for a deep dive investigation. The panel was also expected to discuss and develop terms of reference, and agree on co-optees.

Deep Dive Topic Selection

The panel was scheduled to discuss and decide on a topic for their 2025/26 deep dive. The purpose of these investigations is to allow the panel to take a detailed look into a specific issue affecting children and young people in the borough.

A review of the prior year's deep dive findings was presented at the meeting held on 19 March 2025¹. The findings included:

• Schools that took positive steps to encourage attendance, rather than taking a punitive approach, had the most impact on making changes to school attendance.
• Many families lived in temporary accommodation.
• Some parents had concerns about having their children stay late for post school activities, and were asking for bussing for secondary school children.
• There was a lack of clarity and guidance between GPs and schools giving conflicting advice about whether a child should or should not be in school when unwell.

Overview of Deep Dive Process and Ways of Working

The panel was scheduled to receive an overview of the deep dive process and ways of working. This likely included a discussion of the panel's role in scrutinising council services and making recommendations for improvement.

Terms of Reference

The panel was expected to develop terms of reference, which would outline the scope and objectives of their work. Terms of reference are a common tool used by committees and working groups to define their purpose and how they will operate.

Electing the Vice Chair

The panel was scheduled to elect a vice chair. The vice chair supports the chair in leading the panel's work and may take on additional responsibilities.

Agreeing Co-optees

The panel was scheduled to agree on co-optees. Co-optees are individuals who are not members of the panel but are invited to participate in meetings and contribute their expertise.

Declarations of Interest

Councillors were reminded to consider the Members' Code of Conduct to determine whether they had an interest in any agenda item. They were reminded that if they have a disclosable pecuniary interest² or other registerable interest in any matter being discussed at the meeting, they must declare the interest and not take part in any discussion or vote on the matter.