The Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday 25 June 2025, and elected Councillor Kate Ewert as Chairman and Councillor Rosie Moore as Vice Chairman. Members raised questions to the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools regarding hazard markings outside a local primary school, the approach to a smartphone-free campaign in schools, and support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman

The committee elected Councillor Kate Ewert, Group Leader - Labour and Co-operative Group, as Chairman, succeeding the previous chair. Councillor Karen Glasson nominated Councillor Ewert, which was seconded by Councillor Juliet Line. Councillor Karen Knight nominated Councillor Keith Johnson, seconded by Councillor Susanne Desmonde. Following a vote, Councillor Ewert was elected. Councillor Ewert thanked members for her election and the previous chair for his work.

The committee then elected Councillor Rosie Moore as Vice Chairman. Councillor Knight nominated Councillor Johnson, seconded by Councillor Desmonde. Councillor Ewert nominated Councillor Moore, seconded by Councillor James Ball. Following a vote, Councillor Moore was elected.

Questions to the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools

Members of the committee asked the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools questions on the following topics:

• Hazard markings outside a local primary school: A committee member raised concerns about the absence of hazard markings outside a local primary school.
• Smartphone-free campaign in schools: A question was raised regarding the approach Cornwall Council would take in relation to the smartphone-free campaign in schools.
• Support for children with SEND: A committee member voiced concerns about the appropriate support for children with SEND[^1]. [^1]: SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disability. Children with SEND often require additional support in school.

Approval of Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting of the Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 5 March 2025 were approved. Councillor Brian Clemens proposed the approval of the minutes, and Councillor Ewert seconded the proposal.