The Children and Families Strategic Partnership Board convened to discuss and approve the draft Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Strategy for 2026-2029, receive the Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership (SSCP) Annual Report 2024-25, and review the Children and Young People's Plan. The board approved the SEND and AP Strategy, subject to minor amendments, and accepted the SSCP Annual Report.

SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy 2026-2029

The board reviewed and approved the draft SEND and AP Strategy for 2026-2029, with minor amendments. The strategy aims to improve outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in Staffordshire¹, as well as those requiring alternative provision.

The strategy was presented by Jenny Herbert, and the presentation slides are available to view online.

Key discussion points included:

• Data and targets: Members requested clarification on the data used to set the targets within the strategy.
• Inclusion: There was a discussion about ensuring the strategy promotes inclusive practices across all educational settings.
• Post-16 provision: The importance of appropriate post-16 options and support for young people with SEND was highlighted.
• Partnership working: The need for strong collaboration between education, health, and social care services was emphasised.

The decision was to approve the SEND and AP Strategy 2026-2029, subject to the incorporation of minor amendments discussed during the meeting.

Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership (SSCP) Annual Report 2024-25

The board received the SSCP Annual Report 2024-25, which provides an overview of safeguarding activities and outcomes for children in Staffordshire over the past year.

Key highlights from the report included:

• Performance data: An overview of key performance indicators related to child protection and safeguarding.
• Learning from serious case reviews: Analysis of serious case reviews to identify areas for improvement in safeguarding practices.
• Training and development: Information on safeguarding training provided to professionals working with children and families.

The board accepted the SSCP Annual Report 2024-25, acknowledging the work of the SSCP in safeguarding children across Staffordshire.

Children and Young People's Plan

The Children and Young People's Plan was presented to the board. The plan sets out the vision and priorities for improving outcomes for children and young people in Staffordshire.

The board discussed the plan's key objectives and how they align with other strategic priorities.

Integrated Care Board (ICB) Safeguarding Arrangements

The board received an update on the safeguarding arrangements within the Integrated Care Board (ICB). The ICB has responsibility for commissioning healthcare services across Staffordshire, and it plays a key role in safeguarding children and young people.

The Model ICB Safeguarding Briefing Paper was presented.

Forward Plan 2025-26

The board reviewed the Forward Plan 2025-26, which outlines the key items of business for the partnership over the coming year.