Agenda item

Max Taylor, National Management Trainee presented the report to the Committee and confirmed that Lou Richardson, Lead Commissioner - Corporate Policy & Strategy and Sue Robinson, Business Intelligence Service Manager (Strategic Research) were also present to support and answer any questions.

It was confirmed that the purpose of the report was to understand and systemically assess future trends and impacts on Warwickshire County Council.  The approach taken was to look at the best practice and research across all local government.  It was also confirmed that the report is not intended to be a complete list of all issues that the council may face.  It will be continually monitored and assessed.

The report commented that from 2030 onwards the issues and themes likely to be facing Warwickshire may include societal change, community & health and environment, climate & infrastructure.  The specific considerations for the Children and Young People’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee were identified as –

a)    Changing living situations

b)    Emerging health issues

c)    Increasing diversity

d)    Mental health challenges

e)    Future skills

The report highlighted that Warwickshire County Council would need to consider moving forward, including the following –

·         Tailoring of services to changing needs

·         Increased uncertainty – greater local choices

·         Shifting public expectation and perception

·         New ways of working, including through technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Councillor Penny-Anne O’Donnell thanked the officers for the report which she found fascinating.  In addition, and in relation to the emerging health issues, she thanked the officers for the information in relation to the issue of vaping.  Councillor O’Donnell also commented that the issue of loneliness in children, especially those who may already be vulnerable, may be as a knock-on result of the pandemic.  She thanked officers for identifying all the concerns and the needs to ensure the appropriate skills are in place for the future.

Councillor Tim Sinclair added his thanks for the great report and requested that the information relevant to the Committee be circulated as a separate document.  It was agreed that Max Taylor would compile the relevant information and circulate it to all members of the Committee after the meeting.

Councillor Jerry Roodhouse echoed the previous comments about the excellent report and that the requested information would be very much appreciated.

Councillor Roodhouse asked if any work had been done to include the point of view of children and young people; and asking for their views.  Adding that walking in their shoes could help the council plan.  John Coleman, Director of Children and Families thanked Councillor Roodhouse and agreed that it could be beneficial.  It was agreed that with the Youth Council Elections coming up, it would be an ideal time to ask for their points of view.  Councillor Penny-Anne O’Donnell agreed with Councillor Roodhouse, adding that the council must make sure to reach young people who may feel that their voice isn’t being heard; such as those who are not attending school.  Rachel Jackson, Head of Education and Strategy Transformation confirmed that work on the education strategy that will be presented at the meeting of Cabinet on the 11^th April 2024, and that narrowing the gap is an area of focus that ensures the council is working with the right people in the right places.  It was confirmed that an update would be provided to the Committee at the June meeting.

Councillor Izzi Seccombe, Leader of the Council added that devolution and the opportunities this could create, would help provide and support a skills agenda.  Councillor Seccombe confirmed that imminent announcements are expected in relation to the Devo 2 deal and that the committee would be kept updated.  Councillor Seccombe added that it is crucial that every child is given the chance to shine with their unique set of skills.

Following a question from Phil Johnson, Co-optee and Chair of Stockingford Local Governing Body, it was confirmed that carer advice is offered to all children in Year 7 (11 to 12 years old) and that this makes up part of all OFSTED inspections.  Warwickshire County Council has a statutory requirement to avoid young children becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training) and this is done through work with secondary education providers and colleges.  It was noted that apprenticeship numbers in Warwickshire are higher than midland and national figures.

Resolved

That the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee:

1. Notes the trends and themes highlighted in the ‘Warwickshire Futures 2030/40’ and ‘Warwickshire in 2030 and beyond’ reports and considers how they may relate to ongoing and future policy development; and

2. Considers the Committee's current work programme in light of the Warwickshire Futures work.