Councillor Joanne Barker

The People Committee noted the development of the Best Start in Life Local Plan on 23 June 2026. The plan outlines how local partners will support early childhood development to improve outcomes for young children. It includes expanding Family Hubs, enhancing early years workforce skills, and investing in evidence-based parenting support programmes.

The People Committee approved the Private Sector Housing Enforcement Policy and associated Civil Penalty Enforcement Policy and Tenants’ Fees Enforcement Policy amendments on 23 June 2026. Minor amendments to the policy are delegated to the Executive Director of Place in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Housing.

The People Committee noted the content of the government White Paper on Schools and its proposals to reform the system of support for children with SEND. The Committee endorsed the SEND Reform Plan submitted to the Department for Education on 19 June 2026.

The People Committee decided to note progress on the physical delivery of new homes at Acre Road. They approved the Local Lettings Plan for Acre Road for adoption as an additional element to the Council’s Housing Allocations Policy on 23 June 2026. The committee also noted the intention to cease further lettings on Sobraon House and to start discussions with existing tenants about relocation.

The People Committee decided to approve the procurement strategy for the care and support service at Acre Road Supported Living Scheme. The committee approved an indicative maximum contract value of £6,151,000 for an initial term of 5 years with an option to extend. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Adult Social Care to refine evaluation criteria following market engagement.