Agenda item

To note the report and progress to date.

Sheila Garara and Tony Decrop presented the update, noting that it is reported to scrutiny twice a year. It was noted that the Month 6 position was £5.278m overspent, and it was highlighted that the key pressure was the high cost of external placements. It was noted that most of the underspends were in relation to vacancy management, which were not affecting frontline services.

It was noted that demand for services was down due to reduced referrals, which showed that work was starting to have an impact.

It was highlighted that there were now Red, Amber, Green (RAG) ratings on the Action Plan. It was noted that the strenghts included lots of work having been done around children at risk of homelessness, young carers, multi-agency work and collaboration. It was highlighted that Oldham had the highest number of foster carers. It was noted the next children’s home would open in 2027, and that the homes that were already open had been delivered cheaper and faster than in other areas of GM. It was highlighted that First Choice Homes were launching a proactive pledge the day after the Scrutiny Board meeting.

Members noted the new Childrens Homes and queried whether financial impacts were being seen already on this. It was noted that this would take time and there were hidden costs, but that the homes were keeping young people within the borough. It was noted that there were better outcomes and more control in Council-run homes as to who was being let in in regard to external visitors etc.

Members noted the pressures in continuing health care funding, and it was noted that over the years, there had been continued reductions and this had been escalated to health bodies. It was noted that there was a need for joint commitments and that there was strict criteria, but that lots don’t meet that criteria.

Members queried Project Skyline and placements, noting that other authorities can undercut for placements. It was noted that Project Skyline’s timescales were not any time soon. It was noted that the scheme was for 10 care homes across the 10 boroughs, and that 4 were progressing so far, and one was being looked for in Oldham. These homes would be open to all ten boroughs, whereas the three the Council already has are just for Oldham. It was noted that the first Skyline opening would be December 2026. Regarding placements, it was noted that the vast majority of children were placed within Greater Manchester.

Members queried whether when young people turn 18, does the Council continue to support them if needed. It was noted that as a legal care leaver, the Council is responsible for them and offers support up to 25. Work is also carried out when young people are 16-18 to prepare them for this transition.

Members noted the £2.852m of savings to be identified by the end of 2025/26, and queried what scope there was for this. It was noted that lots of work was being done around other options, and that there had been a focused effort. It was noted that the situation would be clearer once the government’s financial settlement was released in December, and that for this year, other resolutions were being examined.

RESOLVED: That the Board note the report.