Purpose

To provide members with an update on the
serious cashflow issue caused by ever-increasing demand and cost
outstripping High Needs Dedicated Schools Grant government
funding.

Content

RESOLVED that
Cabinet: -

(a)          
Noted the actions taken to date to seek government advice,
support, and guidance as to how the Council can set a legally
balanced budget for 2025/26.

(b)          
Noted the work undertaken by Children’s Services to
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the SEND service to
manage demand and cost.

(c)          
Agreed that the Leader should write again to the Deputy Prime
Minister requesting an urgent meeting and a solution to the
cashflow challenge that the Council faces.

(d)          
Agreed that the Chief Executive and Director of Finance should
write formally to the Permanent Secretary, MHCLG, drawing her
specific attention to the cashflow challenge and potential
solutions.

(e)          
Request officers to bring forward details of which of the
options listed in section 28 of the report will need to be enacted
to ensure the Council can set a legally balanced budget for
2025/26.
Voting: Unanimous
Portfolio Holder: Finance
Reason
To ensure that
Cabinet are kept abreast of a potential existential threat to the
financial viability and sustainability of the council.