The Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee met to discuss the progress of the Early Help Offer, including the Family Hubs programme, and to review preparations for upcoming inspections of Children's Social Care and Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) services. Key discussions included the effectiveness of family support services, the council's readiness for Ofsted inspections, and improvements within SEND provision.

Early Help Offer

The committee received an update on the progress of the Family Hubs and Start for Life programme, which aims to provide integrated support for families from conception to the age of two. Susannah Beasley-Murray, Director Supporting Families, presented the report, highlighting the establishment of four Family Hubs across the borough, with health visiting and midwifery services now co-located. The programme has engaged over 4,000 families and involves 80 partners. Significant outreach efforts are being made to reach hard-to-reach families, including those from low-income backgrounds and single-parent households.

Evidence-based parenting interventions are being delivered, with 773 families receiving support to date. The report detailed progress in home learning environments, infant feeding support, and perinatal mental health services. The Start for Life offer is accessible online and in print, and Parent Carer Panels are being reviewed to improve engagement. Councillor Maium Talukdar, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Education, Youth and Lifelong Learning, emphasised the importance of these hubs in reducing inequalities and improving family well-being.

Inspection Preparation: Children's Social Care

The committee was briefed on the preparations for the upcoming Inspection of Local Authority Children's Services (ILACS) by Ofsted. Susannah Beasley-Murray outlined the inspection process, which will involve a two-week assessment focusing on the experiences and progress of children who need help and protection, children in care, and care leavers. The council believes it is well-prepared, with a clear vision, a strong workforce, and effective leadership. Strengths highlighted include a commitment to early intervention and a supportive, yet challenging, culture. Areas for focus include domestic violence, harm outside the home, neglect, and strengthening partnerships. The council has had positive engagement with Ofsted in the past, with no significant concerns raised during their last annual meeting.

SEND Inspection Preparation and Improvement Update

The committee received an update on the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) inspection preparation and improvement efforts. Lisa Fraser, Director of Education, and Dr. Tina Sode, Head of Special Education Needs, presented the findings. Tower Hamlets is one of the last two London local areas awaiting an Area SEND inspection, which will place significant weight on feedback from children, young people, and parents. The inspection will also evaluate alternative provision.

The council has made progress against its Written Statement of Action, with improvements noted in EHCP timeliness and ASD assessment waiting times. However, challenges remain, particularly in meeting the 20-week timescale for EHCPs, with 61.7% completed outside this timeframe. Priorities for the next 12 months include finalising the SEND and Inclusion strategy, improving internal systems for EHCPs, and addressing the High Needs deficit. The report highlighted the strength of local schools in supporting pupils with SEND, noting high attainment and attendance rates. The gender imbalance in EHCPs, with 72% male and 28% female, was noted as reflecting the national picture, with a focus on improving the identification of needs in girls. The rising cost of transport for children and young people with SEND was also discussed, with a review underway to improve efficiency and sustainability.