Purpose

To seek approval to proceed with a
consultation on proposed changes to Play and Leisure services in
Surrey. This consultation is brought in the context of making sure
Surrey’s short breaks offer is fair and equitable for all
families with children with AND across Surrey. This sits alongside
needing to identify efficiencies and cost savings as part of the
council’s drive to achieve a balanced budget.
 

Content

It was AGREED that:
 
1.              
Public consultation on proposed changes to Play and Leisure
services in Surrey will take place between 8th December
2025 and 5th March 2026.
           
 

Reasons for the decision

Under Section 27 of the Children and Families
Act 2014, local authorities must regularly review provision within
their area for children and young people with SEN or disabilities,
and in assessing whether available provision is sufficient to meet
the needs of these children and young people must consult with
children and young people with SEN or disabilities and their
parents.
 
The consultation feedback will inform final
recommendations for ensuring access to services is fair and
consistent, for recommissioning future provision, and
recommendations to achieve the financial efficiencies of
£800,000.

Alternative options considered

Management action in respect of contracts and
grants due to end March 2026.  However,
this is insufficient to achieve the full required efficiency
without any changes to services. Consultation is therefore
required.