The Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 7 October 2026 to discuss Manchester's recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly City, updates on youth investment and strategy, and the Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy. The committee received updates on these key areas and made recommendations for future reports and actions.

UNICEF Child Friendly City Recognition

The committee received an update on Manchester's recognition as a UNICEF Child Friendly City in June 2026. This status acknowledges the city's progress in embedding children's rights into its policies and services. Discussions highlighted how this recognition contributes to addressing youth violence, improving the daily lives of children, particularly those in poverty, and ensuring the views of children with disabilities and those in care influence council decisions. The committee was informed about Manchester's strengths in supporting supplementary schools and its engagement with child-centred policing. Areas identified for improvement included strengthening the feedback loop to children and young people regarding their views and further embedding the ethos of a children's rights-based approach. The committee resolved to receive a report on supplementary schools at a future meeting and an annual progress report.

Youth Investment Fund and Manchester Youth Strategy Update Report

An update was provided on the Youth Investment Fund (YIF) and the development of the Manchester Youth Strategy. Six new youth facilities are being developed across the city as part of the YIF, with some nearing completion. These facilities aim to provide enhanced opportunities for young people aged 6-19 (up to 25 for those with SEND) and will also serve as community assets. Concerns were raised about the temporary closure of Brooklands Park due to anti-social behaviour while the Stirling Centre was undergoing work. Discussions also covered how the impact of youth centres would be measured, the progress of the Wythenshawe Park centre, and efforts to ensure young people from deprived areas can access provision. The development of the Manchester Youth Strategy is being co-designed with young people and will focus on key areas such as mental health, community safety, education, employment, and access to trusted adults and safe spaces. The committee noted that the Chair would speak with the Chair of the Economy Scrutiny Committee regarding the scrutiny of issues concerning young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).

Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027–2032

The committee considered the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027–2032. This strategy outlines nine pledges aimed at preventing unnecessary entry into care, supporting safe reunification, increasing local family-based and specialist homes, strengthening provider partnerships, improving integrated commissioning, and establishing clear governance. Discussions focused on partnership working between social care and housing to support care leavers, ensuring the views of children and care leavers are heard, and the evidence base for early help and family support services reducing the number of children entering care. The Strategic Director of Children and Education Services reported an 8% decrease in children in care from April 2026. The committee resolved to recommend that the Executive approve the Manchester Children's Social Care Sufficiency Strategy 2027–2032.

Overview Report

The committee received an overview report detailing key decisions within its remit, responses to previous recommendations, and the committee's work programme. The report noted that the City Solicitor had written to Group Leaders and Whips regarding mandatory Corporate Parenting training for councillors, including responsibilities related to Manchester being a UNICEF Child Friendly City. Information on age assessments for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children had been provided to a requesting councillor. A response regarding the role of Ward Councillors in promoting fostering was pending. The committee resolved to note the report and work programme.