Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 22 July 2026

The Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on a date following 3 June 2026. The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as a correct record. There were no declarations of interest or public questions. The Portfolio Holder for Children, Families and Schools provided updates on several matters, including a proposed end-to-end fostering service in partnership with other South West councils, the reshaping of the Corporate Parenting Board to take a more strategic approach, and the retirement of the Strategic Director for Together for Families.

In relation to schools, a Member raised concerns about the Athena Trust and requested that schools be matched with the most appropriate trust. The Portfolio Holder confirmed that Athena Trust was undergoing re-brokerage through the Regional Group, and while the Council had no formal role, it would be involved in discussions. It was noted that a Cabinet Advisory Group would commence in September to consider the Council’s influence. A Member suggested a round table discussion with trust CEOs and MPs, but officers advised that this was unlikely to be supported by the Regional Group and could be seen as seeking undue influence. A working group on mental health and wellbeing had also been established following a recent Individual Decision Day.

The Committee considered the outcome of the 2026 SEND inspection and the associated action plan. Members discussed the involvement of the Parent Carer Forum, which had been positive but raised concerns about timescales. Officers confirmed that Forum representatives were involved in each improvement area and that engagement would be strengthened, drawing on learning from Dorset. Questions were asked about performance monitoring, with officers noting that progress would be reported through existing governance arrangements, including the SEND Inclusion Board, and that updates could be provided to Members quarterly. Areas where baselines were still being validated, such as EHCP requests, were also discussed.

A presentation on the Youth Strategy highlighted gaps in provision and coordination, which officers attributed to challenges following the Covid-19 pandemic and the area’s rural and coastal geography. Members asked about the role of parish and town councils, transport barriers, and ensuring equal opportunities across urban and rural areas. Officers noted that a delivery framework was being developed, and virtual youth clubs were being used to increase accessibility. The Committee was invited to provide early input, with a further review scheduled later in the year.

The Committee received the children’s rights and youth council annual reports, noting that this was the first time they had been presented to Scrutiny ahead of Cabinet approval. Members discussed the Right On Survey, representation of young people, and the tangible outcomes achieved, such as SEND initiatives originating from youth council members with lived experience. Officers highlighted the need to better capture young people’s views in areas such as housing and to ensure their voices are considered in decision-making across all directorates. The reports were noted for Cabinet consideration.