The Children, Adults, Health and Wellbeing Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel met on Monday 16 June 2025 to discuss a range of important issues affecting residents. Key topics included an update on respite services, the progress of the Carers Strategy, and the Active Way initiative promoting active travel. The Panel also received updates from the Cabinet Member for Adult Services and the B&NES, Swindon & Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB).

Respite Services Update

The Panel received an update on respite care services, which are crucial for supporting families and caregivers. The report highlighted that while the profile of respite needs has changed, with a greater use of community-based services, there remains a need for residential respite for individuals with complex needs. However, the current provision for this is larger than the demand. A working group, including family representatives, has been exploring options for future residential respite services. The emerging preferred option is for Dimensions to continue running a respite service at Newton House until October 2026, aligning with the broader recommissioning of learning disability services. The Panel resolved to note the report and provide comments.

Carers Strategy Update

Progress on the Carers Strategy Activity Plan was presented, noting that the strategy, co-produced with carers, was launched in September 2024 and well-received. The activity plan, due to be published in Summer 2025, focuses on improving access to information, clear processes for carers' assessments, and effective crisis response. The report indicated an increase in the number of carers supported by B&NES and highlighted the ongoing recommissioning of the Carers Support Service, with carers actively involved in the process. A new carers online portal is also being developed. The Panel resolved to note the report and provide comments.

The Active Way

The Panel received a presentation on The Active Way, a social prescribing initiative promoting active travel activities such as cycling and walking. The programme aims to build confidence and skills, with a focus on individuals in deprived areas, those with long-term conditions, and underrepresented groups. Early outcomes show improved health and wellbeing, increased social connections, and greater physical activity levels. The project is being monitored by the University of the West of England. The Panel noted the presentation and discussed potential future funding and how to measure impact.

Cabinet Member Update

Councillor Alison Born, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health, provided an update on key areas. She highlighted improvements in waiting times for Care Act Assessments, with a reduction in the median wait from 53 days to 34 days. The demand for adult social care continues to rise, with the service completing 20% more assessments in the first quarter of 2025 than the previous quarter. The Ageing Well B&NES Programme, following the World Health Organisation's Age Friendly Framework, is focusing on priorities including travel, health, and ageism. Councillor Born also mentioned the success of the B&NES Director of Public Health report on Food Security, which was recognised as one of the top five in England.

B&NES, Swindon & Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW ICB) Update

Laura Ambler, Director of Place for Bath and North East Somerset, BSW ICB, provided an update on several key areas. The BSW, Somerset, and Dorset ICBs are exploring plans to cluster together to fulfil future functions more effectively and sustainably, though no decisions have been made. The transformation of integrated community-based care is being overseen by the BSW Community Delivery Group, with a focus on a person-centred design approach. Uptake of the Covid-19 booster vaccine in Bath and North East Somerset is at approximately 60%, exceeding regional and national averages. There is also a strong local appetite for routine MMR vaccinations in under-fives, with over 96% having received at least one dose. The publication of the new 10-Year NHS Plan has been delayed.

Youth Justice Plan 2024-26 - Refresh

Councillor Paul May, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, presented a progress report on the Youth Justice Plan. The plan aims to reduce disproportionality within the Youth Justice System, particularly for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and those from minority ethnic backgrounds. The service has achieved an overall 'Good' rating from HMI Probation inspections, with reductions in custodial sentences and re-offending rates. Key priorities include strengthening participation, embedding child-first principles, and reducing serious youth violence. The Panel noted the progress against the plan.

Update Report - Placement of Young People at Fosse Way House Residential Provision

The Head of SEND introduced a report concerning the placement of young people at Fosse Way House residential provision. It was noted that the Council would not be commissioning places for the following year as no new B&NES children had been identified requiring a 24-hour curriculum. The decision to cease the provision was made by The Partnership Trust. The Panel resolved to note the report and be assured that officers continue to work strategically with partners to support children and young people. Councillor Lesley Mansell stated that she did not accept the report.

Panel Workplan

The Panel discussed its workplan for future meetings. Suggestions for upcoming reports included updates on Youth Services, the Music Service, Child Sexual Exploitation/Modern Slavery, and the progress of Adult Social Care Services returning in-house. The Panel resolved to note its current workplan and the proposals for future reports.