Issue - meetings

This report sets out progress in the harmonisation of early help services by the new BCP Council. The paper aims to update the committee on the creation of the BCP Early Help Services.

The design will operationalise the BCP Family Support and Early Help Strategic Framework and help deliver on the Corporate Plan’s vision to create Brighter Futures.

The creation of a harmonised structural design has been subject to some delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Service Director, Inclusion and Family Services presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The report set out progress in the harmonisation of early help services by the new BCP Council. The paper aimed to update the Committee on the creation of the BCP Early Help Services.

The design would operationalise the BCP Family Support and Early Help Strategic Framework and help deliver on the Corporate Plan’s vision to create Brighter Futures.  It was noted that the creation of a harmonised structural design had been subject to some delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Committee discussed the Report and comments were made, including:

·       In response to a request, the Committee was advised that the Young People’s Strategic Framework 2020-2023 would be circulated to Members

·       In response to a concern regarding the brevity of the Report, the Committee was reassured that this report built on previous reports which had been considered by the Committee and it was proposed that an update report could be provided on the Early Help Strategic Framework in the Autumn

·       There were discussions surrounding the use of voluntary partners and individuals and how the current pandemic had strengthened individuals desires to help within their communities.  It was highlighted that Children’s Services planned to optimise this opportunity for enabling local communities to help themselves in any ways deemed suitable and appropriate to include possibly providing and supporting a wider youth offer

·       In response to a query from the Chairman about the short timescale for completing the process, the Committee was advised that although ambitious, it was believed it could be achieved and was set that way to conclude the process as quickly as possible in the interests of those being affected.

·       The Chairman summarised the discussions as follows, the Committee:

·       Acknowledged that the restructuring was causing stress to the individuals involved and appreciated the ambitious timescale for conclusion of the process

·       Looked forward to receiving the key documents referred to

·       Was excited about the prospects of engaging more with the voluntary sector and the community.

RESOLVED that the Committee note the report and progress to date.