Agenda and minutes

County Council - Tuesday 19 March 2024 10.00 am

Venue: Council Chamber, Shire Hall. View directions

Contact: Deb Moseley  Democratic Services Team Leader

Media

Items
No. Item

1.

General

Additional documents:

1(1)

Apologies for Absence

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Councillors Jo Barker, Richard Baxter-Payne, Sarah Boad, Sarah Feeney, Pete Gilbert, Kam Kaur, Dale Keeling, Daren Pemberton, Kate Rolfe and Mejar Singh

1(2)

Members’ Disclosures of Pecuniary and Non-pecuniary Interests

Additional documents:

Minutes:

None.

1(3)

Minutes of the previous meeting pdf icon PDF 155 KB

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The minutes of the meeting of Council held on 8 February 2024 were agreed as an accurate record for signing by the Chair.

1(4)

Chair's announcements

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(a) Vice-Chair of Council

 

The Chair informed Council that the Vice-Chairman had written officially to the Chief Executive and the Leader to advise them that he was stepping down as Vice Chair.  The next meeting was the annual council meeting on 14 May 2024 when appointment to the role would normally occur. 

 

(b) Other Announcements

 

The Chair remarked on the local occasions he had recently attended to recognise the important contribution of the voluntary sector. 

 

1(10)

Petitions

To receive any petitions submitted in accordance with the Council’s Petitions Scheme.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

The Chair invited the presentation of a petition entitled “Demand 3 Warwickshire County Councillors Resign & SEND Funding is Prioritised” by Ellie Costello. 

 

In presenting the petition, Ms Costello explained that she was speaking on behalf of SEND Crisis Warwickshire.  SEND Crisis had been working with Mel Hawes, a parent/carer based outside the county who had started the petition which had reached over 30,000 signatures, demonstrating the interest in SEND and the plight of SEND families nationally. 

 

SEND Crisis UK had also been approached by Disability Rights UK to draft a letter to the Leader of the Council to highlight concerns about culture and decision making in relation to the development of policy and practice about and for disabled children and young people and their families.  Since culture was a driver for decision making which informed policy and practice, it was clear there had been a negative impact following comments made at the January meeting of the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee.  The Disability Rights UK letter had sought to address Warwickshire’s culture towards disabled children and their families and sought assurance that the proposed mandatory programme of disability rights and SEND awareness would be accessed by all county councillors and repeated at least every two years, with processes in place for Group Leaders to be notified if any members of their group delayed undertaking the training.  She noted that the letter also called on central government to increase, prioritise and protect SEND funding. 

 

Ms Costello reminded Council of a Motion in September 2020 to lobby the government regarding SEND funding provision and she requested an update from each group leader on their individual progress since this was agreed.

 

Ms Costello concluded her speech with hope for a new era of understanding, collaboration and care.

 

In response, Councillor Isobel Seccombe, on behalf of the Portfolio Holder, thanked Ms Costello for attending  and took delivery of the petition. 

 

1(6)

Public Speaking

To note any requests to speak on any item on the agenda in accordance with the Council’s Public Speaking Scheme (see note at end of the agenda).

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Elisse Novak, a local resident, was invited to speak in relation to the motion “SEND Training for Elected Members” (item 3).

 

Ms Novak, parent to a disabled child, welcomed the motion seeking mandatory training, noting that this provided an opportunity for culture change following comments made at the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 25 January 2024 which she noted had weakened the relationship between the Council and the community.  She requested that any training on SEND issues be coproduced between the Council and families, children and young people and include guidance about acceptable standards of conduct and discipline. She sought clarification on where the responsibility for maintaining standards and discipline for elected members lay, particularly around what actions constituted political censure and what was a council process.  She concluded that proper implementation of the training would evidence a turning point to recent events and demonstrate a commitment to rigorous standards and the restoration of damaged relationships.

2.

Director of Public Health 2023 Annual Report pdf icon PDF 88 KB

Additional documents:

Minutes:

Councillor Margaret Bell introduced this report, the theme of which was the impact of domestic abuse.  The theme was explored through the pathway of a fictional character, based on real life experiences, which enabled the far-reaching effects of domestic abuse to be highlighted.  The aim of the report was to raise awareness and demonstrate the need for a partnership approach.  Councillor Andy Crump seconded and reserved his right to speak.

 

Councillor Jerry Roodhouse welcomed the report and thanked the Director for Public Health for shining the spotlight on domestic abuse and the complexities of the subject.  He noted the report also discussed the general health of Warwickshire and expressed continued concern regarding the figures for self-harm and mental health, which he considered were persistent issues that needed to be addressed.  He looked forward to implementation of the recommendations and the positive impact that this would have.

 

Councillor John Holland echoed support for the report.  However, he questioned the implementation of its recommendations as he did not consider that the recommendations of the 2022 report, in particular relating to free school meals for children had been effected.  He also considered that the preventative and supportive actions were impeded by funding reductions to key service areas such as Sure Start Childrens Centres and School Nurses and a comparatively low number of police per capita of population.

 

Councillor Isobel Seccombe congratulated the Director of Public Health on her report and noted that the reports always generated interest.  She particularly noted challenges around the use of social media by children and young people and the link to mental health.  Responding to Councillor Holland, Councillor Seccombe explained the budget pressures of implementing free school meals, and noted that the recommendations in the report were not specific to the Council.

 

Councillor Jonathan Chilvers welcomed the effective narrative approach to the report and applauded the inclusion of practical advice for individuals concerned about family members or friends.  He asked Councillor Bell how she would like to see the second recommendation in the report, relating to Supporting child victims of violence and abuse, taken forward over the coming year.

 

Councillor Judy Falp reflected on her involvement in domestic homicide reviews and emphasised that abusive relationships were found in partnerships of all types not just husband and wife, and the number of instances of abuse, on average, it took for a victim to seek support.   She requested that the report be shared with district and borough representatives and suggested training for all council staff.

 

Councillor Millar echoed the comments of Councillor Holland regarding funding reductions to preventative services and what she viewed as the consequences being demonstrated in the report.  She emphasised the importance of implementing the recommendations and funding the future of children.

 

Councillor Jackie D'Arcy also commented on the need for funding for free school meals which had been highlighted in the 2022 report.   Turning to the 2023 report and the public health improvements and challenges, she noted the levels of alcohol admissions per 100,000 population and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.

3.

Notices of Motion pdf icon PDF 50 KB

To consider the following motions submitted by members in accordance with Standing Order 5:

 

(1)      Joint Labour and Liberal Democrat Motion

 

SEND Training for Elected Members

 

           We recognise as a Council that all children have the right to an education that meets their needs and helps them to flourish. As a Council we recognise that there is now greater knowledge of the support needs of children and families. We also recognise that these needs have changed over time with greater understanding of the issues and will continue to grow especially around needs associated with health and mental health.

 

This Council and Councillors have statutory duties and make judgements and influence decisions about how Special Educational Needs provision is implemented within Warwickshire.   Our decisions always have an impact, and can have a life-changing effect on children and their families.

 

Considering the growing pressures, it is vital that our knowledge and understanding is current. This needs to include increasing our shared understanding of the challenges facing parents and children, alongside looking towards best practice to improve what we do.

 

Therefore, the County Council resolves itself to the upskilling of Councillors by providing annual mandatory training for all elected members. Before serving on any panels, scrutiny committees and other bodies that handle the provision of Childrens Services members will need to have attended the training and development sessions. These sessions will be co-produced in partnership between Warwickshire County Council's SEND services and families of children with SEND. This training and development should be delivered as soon as possible, and no further than three months away.

 

           Proposer: Councillor Barbara Brown

 

           Seconder: Councillor Jerry Roodhouse

 

(2)      Conservative Motion

 

West Midlands Investment Zone

 

           The Investment Zone represents a multi partner project that has the potential to bring very large-scale inward investment to the Coventry and Warwickshire sub-region.  Over recent years, the proposition has advanced to the point of national support being imminent.  The potential to bring forward such a large-scale project was recognised some time ago as beyond the scope of just Warwickshire County Council and Warwick District Council in whose Authorities most of it resides.  We therefore recognise the value of this becoming a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) priority and the ability for them to bring the large-scale investment into the region to realise this project. Jobs for a new generation and wider opportunities for businesses will undoubtedly flow should this move forward, bringing growth that we should all welcome.

 

This Council wholeheartedly welcomes the project and would wish to place on record its thanks to all those partners and wider agencies for their support, including Warwick University and our Business Community through their various agencies.

 

This Council resolves to write a letter of support to the Secretary of State for BEIS (Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy) and to invite Coventry City Council, Warwick District Council and the WMCA to co-sign the same, endorsing our full support and backing as partners wishing to deliver this project for the region and the country.

 

           Proposer: Councillor Martin  ...  view the full agenda text for item 3.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(a) SEND Training for Elected Members

 

Councillor Barbara Brown moved the following motion, which was seconded by Councillor Jerry Roodhouse:

 

“We recognise as a Council that all children have the right to an education that meets their needs and helps them to flourish. As a Council we recognise that there is now greater knowledge of the support needs of children and families. We also recognise that these needs have changed over time with greater understanding of the issues and will continue to grow especially around needs associated with health and mental health.

 

This Council and Councillors have statutory duties and make judgements and influence decisions about how Special Educational Needs provision is implemented within Warwickshire.  Our decisions always have an impact, and can have a life-changing effect on children and their families.

 

Considering the growing pressures, it is vital that our knowledge and understanding is current. This needs to include increasing our shared understanding of the challenges facing parents and children, alongside looking towards best practice to improve what we do.

 

Therefore, the County Council resolves itself to the upskilling of Councillors by providing annual mandatory training for all elected members. Before serving on any panels, scrutiny committees and other bodies that handle the provision of Childrens Services members will need to have attended the training and development sessions. These sessions will be co-produced in partnership between Warwickshire County Council's SEND services and families of children with SEND. This training and development should be delivered as soon as possible, and no further than three months away.”

 

In proposing the motion, Councillor Brown stated that the decisions made by Council had a profound effect on the life chances of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families.  She shared her personal circumstances and experiences of SEND and stressed the importance of all councillors having knowledge and understanding of the issues being faced.  She emphasised the need for mandatory training that was co-produced with parents and carers and an enhanced level of training for those sitting on scrutiny bodies with a remit that covered SEND. 

 

Councillor Jerry Roodhouse seconded the motion and reserved his right to speak.

 

Amendment:

 

Councillor Tim Sinclair proposed the addition of the words “subject to the business of scheduled Council panels, scrutiny committees and other bodies continuing in the interim whilst the training of councillors is undertaken” to the end of the final paragraph of the original motion.  Councillor Brett Beetham seconded the amendment and reserved his right to speak.

 

The amendment was accepted as friendly.

 

Debate:

 

Councillor Bill Gifford welcomed the motion and considered it important for all members to attend training, not just those on committees whose remit included SEND, in order to better support and understand residents seeking assistance.  The training, therefore, was not only about decision-making but also about being equipped to support parents or signpost them to appropriate sources of assistance.  He also reflected on the benefits of previous training opportunities and the positive benefits that children with SEND brought  ...  view the full minutes text for item 3.

4.

Member Question Time (Standing Order 7) pdf icon PDF 54 KB

A period of up to 40 minutes is allocated for questions to the Leader, Cabinet    Portfolio Holders and Chairs of Overview and Scrutiny Committees.

 

Additional documents:

Minutes:

(a)      Question from Councillor Caroline Phillips to Councillor Andy Crump:

 

“Can the Portfolio Holder confirm what steps are being taken to ensure that the DPH recommendation on working together to reduce domestic abuse will be delivered jointly with Warwickshire Police?”

 

Councillor Crump responded that domestic abuse affected all parts of society and everyone had a role to play in its reduction.  He explained that the Police were putting significant resources into this issue, including the creation of the Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART).  The Director of Public Health’s report acknowledged that everyone had a role to play in tackling domestic abuse and partnership working was a key approach.  Partners were taking the issue very seriously.

 

(b)      Question from Councillor Jerry Roodhouse to Councillor Martin Watson

 

“With the UK in recession and last year marking the weakest year for economic growth since the financial crisis there needs to be a focus on providing investment and levers to facilitate growth. The Institute of Directors have revealed that 73% of its members lack confidence in the ability of local authorities to provide effective business support. What assurances can be provided that decision makers at WCC will support organisations like CW Growth Hub who have built an excellent reputation over the last decade and provide them with the tools needed to ensure that the necessary levers are used to maximum effect to stimulate and maintain growth at a local level.”

 

Councillor Watson responded that he was proud of the Council’s work to support businesses and the reputation it possessed for business support.  The landscape of business funding had changed over the previous 18 months with European funding changing and the disbanding of Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs).  However, the Warwickshire LEP had performed well and had been restructured and retained and developed with the Growth Hub which would continue to be funded in partnership with Coventry City Council for another two years.  Programme funding of £3.6m had supported over 770 businesses in the region across 19 industries.

 

By way of supplement, Councillor Roodhouse asked for assurances that there was no reduction to funding for the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub over the next three years.  Councillor Watson expressed the view that although there were changes to the structure, the additional funding from the UKSPF and other funding opportunities had led to an increase in funding not a reduction. He agreed to provide specific figures.

 

(c)      Question from Councillor John Holland to Councillor Peter Butlin

 

“There is a Court Order in place regarding surface water run off from the Cape Road car park. Will Councillor Butlin stay involved until the Order is discharged?”

 

Councillor Butlin responded that he had received regular briefings following the flooding issues affecting Cape Road residents.  The Council had undertaken to conduct flood alleviation work and was working with Severn Trent to develop a futureproofed solution for any future development schemes for the Cape Road car park.

 

(d)      Question from Councillor Tracey Drew to Councillor Jan Matecki

 

“Now the new Kenilworth School  ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

5.

Any Other items of Urgent Business

To consider any other items that the Chair considers are urgent.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

None.