Issue - meetings

The Interim Assistant Director for Children’s Transformation provided an update on the Families First Partnership, a national reform programme focused on early family support, integration of early help and statutory services, and development of multi-agency child protection teams.

She explained that the Council has received transformation funding from the DfE and is progressing with service redesign, with implementation planned for July 2026.

Kevin Burnett asked about referral pathways, step-down arrangements, and outcome measures.

The Assistant Director Children and Young People Services replied that the main sources of referrals were through health and educational settings. She said there was an opportunity to strengthen step down arrangements and described demand modelling, plans for seamless support, and key performance indicators (e.g., reduction in children in care, child protection plans, and re-referral rates).

Councillor Liz Hardman stated that she was much in favour of this work but asked if its implementation would affect ‘business as usual’.

The Director of Children’s Services & Education replied that 2026/27 would be an imbedding year and that some of the funding received has been used to project manage the programme to minimise risk to ‘business as usual’.

The Interim Assistant Director for Children’s Transformation added that a well-resourced team was now in place for the programme, including a communications and engagement officer role.

Councillor Joanna Wright raised the importance of housing and play provision and asked what the Council was doing to support these elements.

The Interim Assistant Director for Children’s Transformation confirmed that housing would be a considered factor and included in new family help assessment frameworks. She added that she would discuss the matter of play provision with colleagues in respect of community assets, early years settings and schools.

Councillor Lesley Mansell commented that she would expect to see an Equalities Impact Assessment relating to the programme in the new year that sets out the risks and mitigations. She added that she welcomed the inclusion of cultural sensitivity and stated the need for appropriate staff training.

The Interim Assistant Director for Children’s Transformation confirmed that staff training would take place on the matters raised.

Councillor Paul Crossley called for the wording within the equalities section of the report to be stronger in its tone.

The Panel RESOLVED to note the national requirements and local response to the Families First Programme and provided comment on the proposed approach to service design and engagement.