Issue - meetings

The report considers the end of year position for the DSG budget 2022-23 at a net in-year deficit of £15.5 million.  This is against a budgeted deficit of £16.7 million.

The £1.2 million underspend relates to high needs expenditure.  Whilst there are some signs that trends in high-cost placements have slowed and mainstream schools taking more EHCPs, the delays in assessments have impacted with the number of plans funded 158 FTE less than budgeted.

The accumulated deficit has grown as a result from £20.3 million to £35.8 million at March 2023, with this required to be carried forward and recovered from future DSG allocations.

The Accountant for Education presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The report considers the end of year position for the DSG budget 2022-23 at a net in-year deficit of £15.5 million.  This is against a budgeted deficit of £16.7 million.

The £1.2 million underspend relates to high needs expenditure.  Whilst there are some signs that trends in high-cost placements have slowed and mainstream schools taking more EHCPs, the delays in assessments have impacted with the number of plans funded 158 FTE less than budgeted.

The accumulated deficit had grown as a result from £20.3 million to £35.8 million at March 2023, with this required to be carried forward and recovered from future DSG allocations.

RESOLVED that the current DSG financial position be noted.

Voting: Nem Con