Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 23, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   That Cabinet approve the decision to consult on the preferred option to cease the Twelve15 Service at the end of the 2025/2026 academic year, noting the options that have been considered as part of the review, and that the consultation period would be for 45 days with internal service staff, schools, and provide for engagement with service providers and other key stakeholders.  That Cabinet delegate decision making on final proposals post consultation, to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources and the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning. That Cabinet delegate approval to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources and the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning, to utilise earmarked reserves to fund one off implementation costs following consultation and full business case agreement. That Cabinet delegate decision making for all decisions required to enable the implementation of the final decision to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources and the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning.   Reason for Decisions:   The Twelve15 Service has historically been generating a return on investment (ROI) and continues to do so, albeit at a steadily declining rate; however, the financial forecast indicates that an ROI is unsustainable in the medium term.   The current forecast sees a trajectory of significant decreases in the net income to be achieved by the Twelve15 catering service, resulting in overall pressures against the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy planning assumptions.   In order to mitigate this risk, it is proposed that the current services are discontinued from September 2026 and for schools to procure alternative arrangements (catering and equipment).   The projections are bleak for a previously buoyant service, and the Cabinet recommendations seek to mitigate these risks and impacts.   (The decisions on this item can be called-in by the Resources and Performance Select Committee)