The Barnet Children's Partnership Board was scheduled to discuss updates from young elected representatives, review the terms of reference for the board, and consider proposals for youth representation. The meeting also included scheduled updates on temporary housing, the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS), and the outcome of an Ofsted visit.

Barnet Elected Youth Representatives - Campaign Update

The Board was scheduled to receive a verbal update from Barnet's elected youth representatives on their ongoing campaigns. This included a previous update from Connor, who had worked with the NSPCC on young people's mental health and created a podcast on how sport can improve mental wellbeing. Freddie, the Youth Member of Parliament for Barnet, had also previously presented a manifesto on diversifying the curriculum and discussed fostering constructive conversations on current affairs with teachers. Eleanor, a Youth Ambassador for Barnet, had focused on supporting students experiencing stress and improving teacher training on learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. Actions arising from previous discussions included involving young people in grant initiatives, creating a task and finish group for self-harm needs assessments, and integrating young voices into the Strategic Mental Health and Wellbeing Board.

Revised Terms of Reference (ToRs)

The Board was scheduled to consider revised Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the Barnet Children's Partnership Board. The existing ToRs outline the Board's role in bringing together services across the borough to support children and young people, enabling collaboration in strategy development and ensuring child participation and co-production. The Board is responsible for the oversight and monitoring of the Barnet Children and Young People's Plan 2023-2027. The responsibilities include ensuring effective frameworks for engaging children, young people, and their families, and leading the development, delivery, and monitoring of the Children & Young People's Plan. The membership of the Board includes senior representatives from partner organisations, with a quorum requiring specific representation from the London Borough of Barnet, North West London Integrated Care Board (ICB), Schools and BELS, and the voluntary sector.

Youth Representative Proposal

A proposal was scheduled to be discussed regarding the future of youth representation on the Barnet Children's Partnership Board. The proposal suggested recruiting two individuals aged 18-25 to become full members of the Board, replacing the current elected youth representatives who were due to stand down in March 2026. This change was proposed to better serve the needs of Barnet's children and young people by having representatives who could attend the entire Board and were over 18. The proposal outlined that young people under 18 are already represented through other existing structures, such as the Youth Board and Youth Assembly. The recruitment process was planned to commence in March 2026, with the new representatives starting by July 2026. Liz Shaw was designated to lead the recruitment, aiming to select candidates from alumni of Barnet's My Say Matters programme or similar initiatives, who have a connection to the borough. The proposal also included contingency plans for recruiting from local university or college students if suitable candidates were not found through existing networks. The role was anticipated to be attractive as a work experience opportunity, particularly for those interested in a career in the public sector.

Boards Update

The Board was scheduled to receive an update on the work of other relevant boards. This item was intended to facilitate cross-fertilisation of work and ensure alignment across different strategic groups within the council and its partner organisations.

Forward Work Programme

The Board was scheduled to review and note the Forward Work Programme for 2025/2026. This programme outlines the planned topics and discussions for future meetings, allowing members to contribute suggestions and ensure the Board's work remains aligned with current priorities and emerging issues affecting children and young people in Barnet. The programme includes scheduled items such as updates on temporary housing, the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS), and Ofsted visit outcomes.

List of Abbreviations

A list of abbreviations was scheduled to be presented for noting. This document serves to clarify the meaning of acronyms used within the Board's documentation and discussions, ensuring clear communication and understanding among all attendees.

Temporary Housing/Accommodation

An update was scheduled to be provided on temporary housing and accommodation for families and young people. This item, marked as To Follow, would likely detail current provision, challenges, and any proposed strategies or initiatives related to temporary accommodation.

Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS)

An update was scheduled regarding the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS). This initiative aims to support the inclusion of neurodivergent children and young people within educational settings. The update, also marked as To Follow, would likely cover progress, achievements, and any new developments or support mechanisms related to PINS. Documents related to PINS, including a celebration presentation and a support menu, were made available.

Ofsted Visit Update

The Board was scheduled to receive an update following an Ofsted visit to the local authority's children's services. This update, marked as To Follow, would likely summarise the findings of the inspection and any resulting recommendations or actions. An appendix containing a focused visit report from Ofsted in November 2025 was provided.