This week in Lancashire:

Audit Committee Reviews Financial Health and Risk Management Amidst National Policy Uncertainty

The Audit, Risk and Governance Committee met on Monday, 12 October 2026, to scrutinise the council's financial health, risk management, and internal controls. Key discussions included the progress of external audits, the management of corporate risks, and the handling of complaints, with particular attention paid to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) service. The committee also heard about the ongoing impact of national policy shifts and the potential implications of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

External Audit: A Clean Bill of Health for Pension Fund, but Concerns Remain

External auditors from Grant Thornton presented their interim findings for the Lancashire County Pension Fund. While an unmodified (clean) audit opinion is anticipated for the 2025/26 financial year, auditors highlighted two minor classificational misstatements and made three recommendations. These included providing the general ledger alongside draft accounts, improving the tracking of audit requests, and establishing a dedicated register of interests for Pension Fund officers. Councillor Paul Stubbins raised concerns about data resources within the pension management company, suggesting the recruitment of a Chief Data Officer.

The committee also received an update on the external audit progress for Lancashire County Council itself. While audit work is progressing as expected, the report noted that the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programme has been paused by the government, with further announcements pending. This uncertainty was flagged as a significant risk on the corporate risk register, with estimated costs to date at £750,000.

• What's at stake? The financial integrity of the county's pension fund and the council's overall financial reporting. For pensioners, a clean audit opinion provides assurance that their funds are being managed responsibly. For council taxpayers, it signifies sound financial management.
• What's being discussed? The interim findings of the external audit for the Pension Fund and the council's financial statements, alongside updates on national policy impacts.
• What's the impact? While the Pension Fund received positive interim findings, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding LGR poses a financial risk and could impact service delivery. The council's request for reimbursement of LGR costs from the government is a crucial step in mitigating this financial exposure.

You can find more details in the Audit, Risk and Governance Committee meeting documents.

Internal Audit: Fleet Management and Procurement Strategy Highlighted

Andrew Dalecki, Head of Internal Audit, presented a positive quarterly update, noting that no limited assurance opinions were issued. However, findings on fleet management were flagged for referral to the scrutiny committee, with concerns raised about vehicle age, depreciation, and write-off criteria. A significant concern was also raised regarding the procurement strategy, which has remained in draft for 18 months. Councillor Paul Stubbins argued that an issued strategy is crucial for aligning procurement with council priorities, social value, and financial sustainability. The committee recommended that a timetable for the strategy's issue be agreed.

• What's at stake? Efficient use of council resources and effective delivery of services. Issues in fleet management and procurement can lead to financial waste and operational inefficiencies.
• What's being discussed? Internal audit findings on fleet management and the prolonged delay in finalising the council's procurement strategy.
• What's the impact? Delays in finalising the procurement strategy could hinder the council's ability to achieve its objectives in areas like social value and economic growth. The findings on fleet management suggest a need for better oversight of asset management and replacement cycles, potentially impacting service delivery and costs.

Complaints and Feedback: SEND Service Under Scrutiny

Angela Esslinger, Complaints Manager, presented the annual reports on complaints and feedback. While overall complaints have increased, the number of upheld complaints by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) has decreased. However, a further letter from the LGSCO highlighted delays in responding to inquiries and implementing agreed recommendations, particularly within the SEND team. Councillor Paul Stubbins expressed concern about a lack of senior management oversight, questioning how long these delays had persisted without intervention. Assurances were given that steps were being taken to address these issues, including new posts and improved processes. The financial implications of dealing with complaints, including remedies and independent investigations, amounted to over £201,000.

• What's at stake? The quality of support and timely resolution of issues for residents, especially those accessing SEND services. Delays and poor complaint handling can have a significant negative impact on vulnerable individuals and families.
• What's being discussed? The council's performance in handling complaints, with a specific focus on delays and LGSCO findings related to the SEND service.
• What's the impact? Persistent delays in the SEND service can lead to prolonged stress and uncertainty for families, potentially impacting children's development and well-being. The financial cost of complaints, including remedies, underscores the importance of effective complaint resolution and service improvement.

Corporate Risk Register: LGR Uncertainty and Staffing Concerns

Hannah Race, Head of Governance and Democratic Services, presented the updated Corporate Risk Register. Few changes were noted since the last update, with most risk scores remaining consistent. However, the risk relating to national policy was removed from the corporate register due to a low score, though it will continue to be managed at a directorate level. Members raised concerns about the adequacy of the procurement strategy and the significant challenge of balancing business-as-usual delivery with the demands of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). The estimated cost of LGR to date was approximately £750,000, with reimbursement requested from the government. Concerns were also raised about the Children Missing in Education team being understaffed, with questions about budget provision for adequate staffing.

• What's at stake? The council's ability to manage significant risks, including the financial and operational impacts of LGR and ensuring adequate staffing for critical services like Children Missing in Education.
• What's being discussed? The council's corporate risk register, with a focus on LGR uncertainty, procurement strategy, and staffing levels in key services.
• What's the impact? The ongoing uncertainty surrounding LGR could impact service delivery and financial planning. Understaffing in critical areas like Children Missing in Education could have serious consequences for vulnerable children, potentially leading to missed interventions and safeguarding concerns.

Full Council Debates Key Constitutional and Financial Matters

The Full Council convened on Thursday, 15 October 2026, addressing a range of critical issues including proposed changes to the council's constitution, treasury management, and the ongoing challenges faced by the farming community.

Proposed Changes to the Council's Constitution Spark Debate

The council debated proposed changes to its constitution, primarily concerning the procedure for submitting and debating notices of motion. The Political Governance Working Group recommended reducing the number of motions and shortening debate times. This was met with strong opposition from several councillors, including County Councillor Mark Jewell, who argued that the changes would stifle debate and limit democratic scrutiny. County Councillor Samara Barnes expressed concern that silencing opposition voices would also silence the residents they represent. Ultimately, an amendment to refer the recommendation back to the Political Governance Working Committee was carried, indicating a desire for further deliberation.

• What's at stake? The balance of power and the ability of all councillors to raise important issues on behalf of their constituents. Changes to the constitution can significantly impact democratic processes.
• What's being discussed? Proposed restrictions on the number and duration of debates for notices of motion.
• What's the impact? If implemented without careful consideration, these changes could limit the ability of opposition councillors to hold the administration to account and raise matters of public concern, potentially leading to a less transparent and responsive council.

Treasury Management Strategy: Significant Losses on Investments Raise Concerns

The Audit, Risk and Governance Committee presented an update on the council's treasury management strategy, revealing a significant loss of £343.1 million on long-term investments in bonds. Councillor David Whipp raised concerns about the overall increase in borrowing, which had risen to over £1.2 billion, questioning how the current administration reconciled this with their previous condemnation of high borrowing levels. Councillor Stephen Atkinson, Leader of the County Council, defended the borrowing, stating it fluctuates and had reduced by £100 million in their first year. He attributed the financial challenges to previous administrations' decisions.

• What's at stake? The council's financial stability and the responsible management of public funds. Significant investment losses can impact the council's ability to fund essential services.
• What's being discussed? A substantial loss on long-term bond investments and an increase in overall borrowing levels.
• What's the impact? The £343.1 million loss on bond investments is a serious concern, potentially impacting the council's budget and its capacity to fund services. The increase in borrowing, despite previous criticisms, raises questions about financial strategy and accountability.

Farming and Rural Prosperity Forum Established

A motion to establish a cross-party Lancashire Farming and Rural Prosperity Forum was carried. County Councillor James Tomlinson highlighted the significant challenges facing the farming community, including rising costs, labour shortages, and succession planning issues. The forum aims to foster collaboration between councillors, farming representatives, and rural stakeholders to develop solutions benefiting both farmers and residents.

• What's at stake? The future of Lancashire's vital farming sector and the sustainability of its rural communities. Supporting farmers is crucial for food security, the local economy, and environmental stewardship.
• What's being discussed? The creation of a new forum to address the pressing issues facing Lancashire's farmers.
• What's the impact? This initiative offers a much-needed platform for dialogue and collaboration, potentially leading to practical solutions and greater support for a sector that underpins much of Lancashire's identity and economy.

Local Government Reorganisation: Calls for Transparency and Resident Consent

A motion concerning Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was debated, with calls for transparency on costs and a resident referendum should reorganisation be revived. Councillor Malcher highlighted the £16.5 million already spent by the council on preparation costs and argued that central government should bear these expenses. He stressed the importance of resident consent through a binding referendum. The motion, calling for a statement of costs, reimbursement from central government, and a review of contracts, was carried.

• What's at stake? The future structure of local government in Lancashire and the significant financial implications for taxpayers. The potential disruption to essential services, particularly for vulnerable groups, is a major concern.
• What's being discussed? The costs and process of LGR, with demands for transparency and resident involvement.
• What's the impact? The council's stance on LGR costs and the call for a referendum reflect a desire for greater accountability and democratic legitimacy. The financial implications of LGR are substantial, and ensuring resident consent is vital for public trust.

Other Matters

The Development Control Committee met on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, and granted planning permission for two applications relating to Westbury Brickworks, including the erection of a bagging plant building and the relocation of a wash plant. Concerns were raised by residents regarding noise, dust, and drainage, but officers stated that noise levels were within acceptable limits and that conditions would be imposed to address drainage and containment. The committee also amended a condition to limit outdoor crushing and screening to specific areas.

• What's at stake? The balance between industrial development and the protection of local residents' amenity. Planning decisions directly impact the quality of life in affected neighbourhoods.
• What's being discussed? Planning applications for a brickworks, including the construction of a bagging plant and the relocation of a wash plant, alongside the removal of a condition restricting outdoor operations.
• What's the impact? While the committee granted permission, the debate highlighted ongoing tensions between industrial activity and residential concerns. The conditions imposed aim to mitigate potential negative impacts, but residents' objections underscore the need for robust monitoring and enforcement.

This week in Lancashire:

Health and Wellbeing Board Tackles Frailty, Work-Health Links, and Child Development

The Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday, 8 October 2026, to chart a course for improving the health and well-being of residents across the county. The meeting focused on three key priority areas: addressing frailty, improving work and health outcomes, and enhancing child development. These priorities were identified from a partnership workshop aimed at refining the Board's role and identifying collaborative actions.

Three Priorities for Action by March 2027

Following a workshop on 11 August 2026, the Board discussed outcomes that highlighted five emerging themes: improving child development, strengthening youth resilience, enhancing health and economic growth, promoting active lives and healthy environments, and supporting healthy ageing. From these, three priority areas were proposed for focused action by March 2027:

• Addressing Frailty: This aims to improve care for older residents and reduce pressure on hospital services.
• Work and Health: This priority seeks to improve health outcomes by addressing employment and economic factors. Sir Alex Heritage, Chief of Strategy for the Integrated Care Board, emphasised the strong link between good employment and resident health, noting that this is a new focus for the NHS.
• Child Development: This crucial area aims to build a foundation for lifelong health and well-being.

The Board was asked to endorse these priorities and commit to developing delivery plans with clear ownership and shared measures.

Councillor Azhar Ali OBE, Leader of the Opposition, pressed for clear timelines on addressing frailty and corridor care, while Dr. David Wrigley, a GP and deputy chair of the BMA's GP committee, highlighted challenges with vaccine uptake funding and punitive rules within the Quality and Outcomes Framework, which can penalise practices for low uptake. Wayne Longshaw, Director of Integration for Mersey and West Langs Hospital Trust, offered support, noting opportunities in frailty and recruitment.

The voluntary sector, represented by Teri Stephenson, Chief Executive at AGUK Lancashire, sought assurance on their role in delivery. Dr. Shashi Khandavalli, a GP in Chorley, stressed the importance of continuity of care, and Jane Swarbrick, Clinical Director of FCMS, highlighted the need to review the effectiveness of existing contracts. Councillor Brian Moore, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Growth, spoke about the link between deprivation, wealth, and health, advocating for investment to raise the wealth of Lancashire.

You can find more details in the Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Board meeting documents.

Better Care Fund: Driving Integrated Care

Matthew Emerson, Director of Commissioning at Lancashire County Council, presented an update on the Lancashire Better Care Fund (BCF). This pooled fund between the County Council and the Integrated Care Board (ICB) focuses on improving integrated care. The plan for 2026-27 includes developing a Section 75 agreement and an integrated commissioning approach, reflecting national direction towards neighbourhood health and prevention.

Dr. VG Chandrasekar suggested replicating the success of the Morecambe Bay Respiratory Network across Lancashire, while Dr. Preeti Shukla welcomed the integrated approach and highlighted the need for integration in women's health and contraceptive services, as well as addressing waiting lists for ADHD and autism assessments.

• What's at stake? For residents, this means a more coordinated approach to health and social care, aiming to prevent hospital admissions and improve recovery times. For vulnerable groups, better integration can mean smoother transitions between services and more personalised support.
• What's being discussed? The progress and plans for the Better Care Fund, a key mechanism for pooling resources to deliver integrated health and social care services.
• What's the impact? The BCF is crucial for ensuring that services work together effectively, particularly for older people and those with long-term conditions. Successful integration can lead to better health outcomes, improved patient experience, and more efficient use of resources.

Ageing Well: Supporting People Through Hospital Pathways

John Williams, Director of Operations at the County Council, presented on partnership working to support people through hospital care pathways, with a focus on Ageing Well. The report highlighted that frailty is a major contributor to urgent and emergency care pressures, and a Home First approach is central to managing this. The Board was asked to consider noting the redesigned discharge and review model.

Terry Stephenson, Chief Executive at AGUK Lancashire, raised a concern that a Home First approach could place a greater burden on families and carers. John Williams acknowledged the crucial role of carers and the need to support them. Mubashar Ali, Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy Lancs and South Cumbria, highlighted the integral role of community pharmacies in prevention and the Ageing Well principle, specifically mentioning the Discharge Medicine Service. Dr. Shashi Khandavalli reiterated the importance of continuity of care and a shift towards upstream prevention. Helen Coombes, Executive Director for Adults Health and Wellbeing, agreed on the need for earlier identification of carers and closer working between adult social care and primary care.

• What's at stake? Ensuring older residents receive appropriate support to maintain independence and avoid unnecessary hospital stays. A focus on Ageing Well aims to improve quality of life and reduce the burden on acute services.
• What's being discussed? Strategies to improve the hospital discharge process and support older people in their recovery and independence, with a focus on a Home First approach.
• What's the impact? This initiative aims to reduce hospital admissions and length of stay, leading to better outcomes for individuals and more efficient use of hospital resources. However, it's vital to ensure that carers are adequately supported and that the Home First approach doesn't inadvertently increase pressure on families.

Public Health Strategy 2026-2030: A Vision for Prevention

Dr. Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Wellbeing and Communities, presented Lancashire County Council's Public Health Strategy 2026-2030. The strategy sets out a framework for improving health and wellbeing through prevention, personal responsibility, strong communities, and partnership working. It highlights that nearly half of premature deaths in Lancashire are preventable.

David Blacklock, Chief Executive at Healthwatch Lancashire, welcomed the strategy, particularly the emphasis on personal responsibility, and suggested a joint communications group to streamline public information. Councillor Margaret France expressed concern about the high rate of preventable deaths and advocated for more proactive health promotion messaging, especially regarding smoking and alcohol. Dr. David Wrigley questioned the current standing and number of public health specialists. Gareth Thomas, Interim Chief Executive of Langston South Cumbria Trust, asked how strategies would be knitted together. Dr. Karunanithi explained the funding for public health and the importance of a whole-system approach. Joe Hannett, Chief Officer of Community Futures, raised a question about the proportionality of investment in community capacity. Samantha Pink, representing Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, supported the strategy and highlighted the importance of data sharing. Edward Ovenden, a clinical leader for optometry, expressed support and highlighted the potential for optometry services in preventative care.

• What's at stake? The long-term health and well-being of Lancashire's population. A strong public health strategy can reduce preventable illnesses and deaths, leading to a healthier and more productive society.
• What's being discussed? A comprehensive strategy to improve health and well-being through prevention, community engagement, and partnership working.
• What's the impact? This strategy represents a commitment to tackling health inequalities and promoting healthier lifestyles. Its success will depend on effective collaboration across all sectors and a genuine focus on preventative measures to reduce the burden of ill health.

Other Matters

The Board noted the date of the next informal meeting on 17 November 2026 and the next formal meeting on 19 January 2027.

This week in Lancashire:

Council Faces Tough Choices on Adult Social Care and Transport Funding

Lancashire County Council's Cabinet met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, to make crucial decisions impacting adult social care, public health, and transport infrastructure. The meeting saw the endorsement of a new, person-centred model for adult social care, the approval of a refreshed Public Health Strategy, and the green light for significant transport projects, including the Cottam Parkway Railway Station. However, the council also began the process of consulting on the potential closure of Thurnham Glasson Church of England Primary School due to low pupil numbers.

Better Care, Better Lives: A New Direction for Adult Social Care

The Cabinet endorsed Better Care, Better Lives, a new model for adult social care designed to shift focus from service delivery to individual needs and strengths. Developed through extensive co-production with over 700 residents, carers, and professionals, the strategy prioritises prevention, early intervention, and community-based support. The aim is to help more people remain independent for longer, stay connected to their communities, and receive personalised care closer to home.

Councillor Azhar Ali OBE, Leader of the Opposition, praised the report as an excellent piece of work that sets a clear path for the future, particularly highlighting the importance of integrating with the voluntary sector and utilising community assets. However, Councillor Gina Dowding questioned the timeline for implementation and what specific changes residents could expect soon, particularly regarding day centres. While acknowledging the market's pace, Councillor Tom Pickup, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, assured that Bellevue, a specific property, was being actively considered for redevelopment.

• What's at stake? The quality and accessibility of care for thousands of vulnerable adults in Lancashire. A successful transition to this person-centred model could significantly improve independence and well-being.
• What's being discussed? A fundamental shift in how adult social care is delivered, moving towards a more preventative, community-focused, and strengths-based approach.
• What's the impact? This model has the potential to empower individuals and strengthen communities. However, its success relies on continued co-production, adequate funding for community initiatives, and ensuring that no one is left isolated or without the support they need.

You can find more details in the Cabinet meeting documents.

Public Health Strategy Aims for Healthier Lives Through Prevention

The Cabinet approved the Lancashire Public Health Strategy 2026-2030, which aims to improve health and wellbeing across the county by focusing on prevention, personal responsibility, strong communities, and partnership working. The strategy acknowledges that life expectancy in Lancashire is below the national average, with a significant number of premature deaths from preventable causes.

The strategy outlines five key priorities: Childhood Development, Youth Resilience, Health and Economic Growth, Active Lives and Healthy Environments, and Promoting Independence and Healthy Ageing. Councillor Daniel Matchett, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, emphasised a cultural shift from dependency to empowerment, stating that good health is not created by the NHS on its own. He stressed that every council service has a role to play, from education to highways.

Councillor Gina Dowding raised the importance of blue spaces – rivers, canals, and the sea – and their potential positive impact on health, noting their absence from the strategy. Councillor Azhar Ali OBE also queried the strategy's approach to youth resilience, specifically regarding emotional and mental well-being, and the early intervention for children with neurodevelopmental conditions. Councillor Matchett responded that the strategy aims to move away from a diagnostic-first approach and focus on building resilience and capability.

• What's at stake? The long-term health and well-being of Lancashire's population. A proactive public health strategy can lead to longer, healthier lives and reduce the burden on healthcare services.
• What's being discussed? A comprehensive plan to tackle health inequalities and improve population health through prevention and community engagement.
• What's the impact? This strategy represents a commitment to a healthier future for Lancashire. Its success will depend on effective collaboration across all council departments, with partners in the NHS and voluntary sector, and on residents embracing preventative measures.

Cottam Parkway Station Gets Green Light for Construction

The Cottam Parkway Railway Station Project has been officially included in Lancashire County Council's Capital Programme with a total budget of £69.2 million. The project, which has secured £64.7 million in external and partner funding, will deliver a new railway station, car park, highway access, and a bridge crossing the Lancaster Canal. This development is expected to support housing and employment growth in North and West Preston.

Councillor Brian Moore highlighted the project's significance beyond transport, stating it will unlock the Lancashire central strategic employment site and support economic growth. Councillor Azhar Ali OBE, while fully supporting the project, raised concerns about potential delays due to electricity supply issues for the station, a point also noted by Councillor Phil Riley at a previous scrutiny committee meeting. Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, assured that Network Rail foresees no issues with the power supply for the station and that diesel engines remain a contingency. An update on the Cotton Railway Station project, including potential risks and backup plans, will be provided at the next meeting.

• What's at stake? Improved transport connectivity for thousands of residents in North and West Preston, supporting economic development and housing growth.
• What's being discussed? The inclusion of a major new railway station project in the council's capital investment plans.
• What's the impact? This project promises to enhance public transport options, reduce reliance on cars, and stimulate economic activity in a key growth area of Lancashire. The successful delivery of this station could be a catalyst for further development and investment.

Consultation to Begin on Thurnham Glasson School Closure

The Cabinet approved the commencement of a consultation on the proposed closure of Thurnham Glasson Church of England Primary School. The school currently has only nine pupils, significantly below its capacity, and faces ongoing financial challenges. The consultation will seek views from all stakeholders, including parents, staff, governors, and the local community, before any final decision is made. Discussions will also explore the potential repurposing of the site for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision.

• What's at stake? The future of a local primary school and the educational provision for its pupils. School closures can have a profound impact on communities.
• What's being discussed? A proposal to consult on closing a small primary school due to low pupil numbers and financial unsustainability.
• What's the impact? The consultation process is crucial for ensuring all voices are heard. If the school does close, alternative arrangements will need to be made for pupils, and the potential repurposing of the site could offer new opportunities for SEND provision.

Other Matters

The Cabinet also approved the commencement of procurement exercises for various services, including PPE and workwear, and a significant framework for SEND education and specialist provision. They also approved early enabling works for the A582 Major Road Network programme and the addition of £4.5 million in Active Travel Grant funding for 2026/27. An item of urgent business concerning Local Government Reorganisation led to the approval of issuing a protective claim to safeguard the Council's position.

This week in Lancashire:

Council Grapples with Hospital Bed Closures and Adult Social Care Transformation

Lancashire County Council's Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to discuss significant proposals that could reshape healthcare delivery in the Lancaster area and transform adult social care across the county. The committee heard plans to reduce hospital beds at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, alongside a new Better Care, Better Lives model for adult social care, sparking debate about the impact on vulnerable residents and the future of community support.

Right Care, Right Place: Shifting Services from Hospital to Home

The committee heard proposals from NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) and University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust regarding the Right Care, Right Place initiative. This plan aims to increase community services and reduce hospital bed capacity in the Lancaster area by potentially closing two 24-bed wards at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary. The intention is to shift care closer to home, with increased investment in primary care and expanded virtual wards offering hospital-level care in patients' homes.

While the ICB assured that patient safety and quality of care are paramount, and any bed closures would be phased and dependent on the successful implementation of alternative community services, councillors raised concerns. They questioned the potential impact on adult social care, the quality of virtual wards compared to hospital beds, and the timing of closures, especially with winter pressures looming. Councillor County Councillor Mark Jewell (Liberal Democrat) voiced support for the shift towards community care but stressed the importance of ensuring adequate resources for these new models.

• What's at stake? For residents, particularly older and more vulnerable individuals, this could mean a significant change in where they receive care. While the aim is to provide more convenient and personalised support, concerns remain about ensuring sufficient capacity and quality in community settings to prevent longer waits or a decline in care standards.
• What's being discussed? A proposal to reduce hospital beds by increasing community-based services and virtual wards, with the goal of providing care closer to home.
• What's the impact? If successful, this could lead to more integrated and accessible care. However, if community services are not adequately resourced or if virtual wards prove less effective for certain patient groups, it could lead to increased pressure on remaining hospital beds and potential gaps in care for those who need more intensive support.

You can find more details in the Health and Adult Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.

Better Care, Better Lives: A New Vision for Adult Social Care

Lancashire's proposed future Model of Care for Adult Social Care, Better Care, Better Lives, was presented as a shift from services to people's lives. Developed through extensive co-production with over 700 individuals, the model prioritises prevention, early intervention, and community-based support. Key pillars include:

• Community First: Strengthening local networks and investing in the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector.
• At Home with Support: Providing personalised support to enable independence, with increased use of Direct Payments and Individual Service Funds.
• Specialist Housing: Developing high-quality housing with care options.
• Strengths-Based Practice: Focusing on individuals' strengths, aspirations, and relationships.

Councillors raised questions about funding for the VCFSE sector, staff training, and the provision of specialist housing. Concerns were voiced about the potential for increased isolation if community support is not adequately resourced. The council acknowledged these points, stating that funding models are being explored and workforce training is underway. Crucially, they assured the committee that there are no immediate plans for care home closures as a direct result of this new model.

• What's at stake? The quality and accessibility of adult social care for thousands of Lancashire residents. A successful transition could lead to more personalised, preventative, and community-focused support, enabling people to live more independent and fulfilling lives.
• What's being discussed? A new strategic model for adult social care, aiming to reorient services towards prevention, community support, and individual strengths.
• What's the impact? This ambitious model could significantly improve outcomes for those drawing on social care. However, its success hinges on adequate funding for the VCFSE sector, comprehensive staff training, and ensuring that community-based support genuinely prevents isolation and meets diverse needs. The emphasis on strengths-based practice is intended to empower individuals, but careful implementation is needed to ensure no one falls through the gaps.

Work Programme and Procedural Matters

The committee also reviewed its draft work programme for the upcoming year, which includes topics such as the Shaping Care Together programme and Mental Health Act reforms. Councillor County Councillor G Johnson expressed disappointment that Shaping Care Together had been removed from the agenda, raising concerns about the process. The committee agreed to request written updates from relevant directors on their advice to the Shaping Care Together programme. The committee ultimately supported the proposed work programme.

The minutes from the previous meeting were agreed, with Councillor County Councillor Mark Jewell highlighting the importance of receiving timely updates on resolved actions.

Other Matters

The Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday, 24 September 2026. They received an update on the vital work of Trading Standards in supporting community safety, including efforts to combat illicit tobacco, counterfeit goods, and online scams. The committee also discussed the Civic Pride agenda, aimed at strengthening residents' connection to their communities, and reviewed the committee's work programme for 2026/27.

• What's at stake? The effectiveness of Trading Standards in protecting consumers and ensuring community safety. The Civic Pride agenda aims to foster a greater sense of belonging and encourage community involvement.
• What's being discussed? The role of Trading Standards in tackling illegal sales and scams, and the progress of the Civic Pride initiative.
• What's the impact? Robust Trading Standards work protects residents from fraud and unsafe products. The Civic Pride agenda, if successful, could lead to more engaged communities and a stronger sense of local identity. However, concerns were raised about the ageing workforce within Trading Standards and the potential for increased isolation if community support is not adequately resourced.

You can find more details in the Community, Cultural, and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee meeting documents.