Decision details

Children in Care Outline Business Case

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

To secure approval and funding for a new targeted programme of transformation focussing on reducing Children in Care numbers and associated costs.

Decision:

RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the procurement of an external transformation partner to support the delivery of Phase one of the Children in Care Transformation Programme over a period of 6 months with a total cost of £0.561m, funded from Children’s Services revenue budget to deliver service improvements and Children in Care savings projected at £2million by the end of 2027/28.

Voting: Nem.Con (1 abstention)

Portfolio Holder: Children, Young People, Education and Skills

Reason

The recommended option supports the identification and delivery of sustainable reductions in Children in Care numbers and costs, while ensuring value for money and positive outcomes for children. Commissioning specialist external support through a formal tendering process provides the Authority with the capacity and expertise required to implement a Children in Care Transformation Programme.

Report author: Sophie Bradfield

Publication date: 30/03/2026

Date of decision: 26/03/2026

Decided at meeting: 26/03/2026 - Cabinet

Accompanying Documents: