Purpose

This report outlines the background and
decision for Wokingham Borough Council’s to
participate in the Southeast Regional Care
Co-Operative (SERCC), with approval to fund the
initiative over the next three years.
 
The decision comes at a time of increasing
pressure on children’s services, driven by rising
demand, escalating placement costs, and a
growing number of children with complex needs
entering residential care. These challenges
are reflected both locally and nationally, creating
significant budgetary pressures and
reinforcing the strategic need for collaborative regional
solutions.
 
Joining the South
East Regional Care Cooperative (RCC) offers Wokingham
Borough
Council the opportunity to collaborate with 17
other local authorities in shaping and
influencing the care market across the region.
By working collectively, the RCC is able to
lead on market development, enabling more
strategic and impactful engagement with
providers. This regional approach strengthens
negotiating power and fosters more
consistent and sustainable commissioning
practices. For smaller authorities like
Wokingham, it reduces the limitations of
operating in isolation and ensures that
conversations with providers are informed by
shared priorities, data, and scale—ultimately
supporting better outcomes for children and
young people across the South East.

Content

RESOLVED
that the Executive approved that:
 

1.    
Wokingham Borough Council enter into an agreement
with the South-East Regional Care Co-Operative (RCC) in line with
12.1.7.2 of the constitution and will continue to monitor, review
and update.

2.    
The £100k investment for 26/27 and 27/28 years
will be offset by savings.

3.    
The proposed purpose, objectives and scope of the
South-East Regional Care Co-Operative (SERCC) and how it will
deliver improved outcomes for the Children and secure better value
for money.

4.    
To note that a briefing regarding the South-East
Regional Care Co-Operative was provided to the Childrens Overview
& Scrutiny Committee on the 17th September.