Decision details

The work of Children’s Services had always been diverse, demand led and challenging. The impact of Covid-19 had increased levels of demand and need that could not have been predicted.  The child population continued to increase as do the levels of poverty being experienced by children and families. Furthermore, the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing cost of living pressures had added an additional layer of complexity to the work of Children’s Services. The performance information available to the Service demonstrated that the unprecedented surge in demand began at the end of 2020 and had continued through to the present day. There were currently no indicators to suggest a return to pre pandemic demand levels.

Given the complex demand challenges within the system there was a need to address increasing financial pressures and ensure affordability and financial sustainability through delivery of better outcomes that cost less.  Whilst there had and continued to be a significant focus on improving outcomes for children and young people, the Service wanted to refresh its evidence base to fully understand the root causes of the current demand coming into the system.  This would inform the way in which services were developed and delivered in the future, especially as the Service looked to build stronger relationships with partners.  To support the Service with this work, IMPOWER have been commissioned to develop a single programme of change based around a clear profile of demand, with a plan for delivery. The aim of this plan was to help maximise the impact and effectiveness of early intervention and prevention, alongside our intention for more locality-based support.

In addition to the local challenges, there were a number of national policy developments planned to be introduced that would impact on the way in which services were delivered to the children and young people of Buckinghamshire.  Whilst many of the reforms currently lacked detail, the Council was in support of the Government’s proposals.  The Service continued on its improvement journey and the number one priority was to strengthen services for children, young people and their families.  Whilst there was more to do, the Service was confident in its understanding and knowledge of what needed to be done.

RESOLVED –

That the national and local developments across the Children’s Services Directorate be NOTED.