The Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the development and evaluation of Bexley Family Hubs, commissioning developments in children's transformation, the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27, and the committee's work programme. Key decisions included noting the progress of the Erith Family Hub, approving the draft budget with proposed savings, and reviewing the committee's work programme.

Bexley Family Hubs Development and Evaluation

The committee received an update on the Erith Family Hub's first six months of operation. Councillors praised the lovely visit and the passion of the staff members who are making a significant difference to families. The hub has supported over 180 families and delivered more than 80 group sessions. A key success highlighted was the Making Fathers Heard project, aimed at increasing father engagement, with workshops held in Thamesmead, Sidcup, and Erith.

However, challenges were identified, including the need to better evidence long-term outcomes beyond attendance figures and to address capacity issues as demand grows. Councillor Jeremy Fosten noted that people are coming to the hub in spite of the fact that it's a council service, not because of it, suggesting a need to reflect on the council's overall welcoming approach. Councillor Janice Ward-Wilson agreed that the issue was more about the stigma of social services rather than the council itself. The report also highlighted the need to engage harder-to-reach groups, such as fathers and non-resident parents, who currently represent less than 8% of programme attendees. Data sharing and systems integration between agencies were also identified as areas for improvement.

Commissioning Developments in Children's Transformation

The committee received an update on the commissioning services workstream within the Children's Services Transformation programme. This workstream aims to ensure high-quality, value-for-money services for children in care. An external strategic partner was engaged to review current systems and processes using a Valuing Care approach, which assesses children's needs against placement costs. This review involved 16 workshops with practitioners and the review of 70 children in high-cost placements.

The outcomes indicated that children's needs were generally well-aligned with care provision, and the service was making appropriate use of foster and residential care. Key recommendations include exploring reunification and step-down options for some children, improving the Placement Referral Form to be more strength-based, and piloting Home finding forums to facilitate dialogue with providers. The development of dedicated commissioning roles is also recommended to enhance market management and negotiate costs more effectively, contributing to the proposed £1.98 million in savings for 2026/27. Councillor Peter Craske expressed delight at the use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money for capital investment in children's services.

Draft Budget and Financial Plans 2026/27

The committee reviewed the draft budget and financial plans for 2026/27, which showed a balanced budget achieved through the Future Bexley transformation programme, service reviews, and technical reviews. The Children's Services Directorate is forecast to deliver savings of £1.98 million in 2026/27.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) deficit, which is being managed through a Safety Valve agreement with the Department for Education. Despite mitigation measures, the deficit is projected to grow, posing a substantial financial risk. The committee noted the government's commitment to addressing accumulated deficits post-2028, but further guidance is awaited. Councillor Fosten raised concerns about potential staff cuts and increased workloads, which were reassured by Councillor Chris Taylor, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, who stated that the focus was on enhancing skills and capacity.

The budget includes £10.572 million for contract inflation and pressures, with £1.041 million allocated to Children's Services. The committee also discussed the significant pressure of SEND transport costs, which have increased due to the rising number of children receiving travel assistance and the cost of personal transport budgets.

A notable discussion point was the introduction of robot technology as part of the Safety Valve programme to support children experiencing emotionally based school avoidance. Councillor Taylor explained that ten robots are being trialled, costing less than £50,000 for the initial ten, which is a cost-effective solution compared to online tuition. Councillor Geraldene Lucia-Hennis expressed fascination with the technology, inquiring about its programming and how long children would use it.

Work Programme

The committee reviewed its annual work programme and noted the Bexley Status Report for Quarter 2 (July to September 2025). Key performance indicators discussed included the number of young adults supported by the Leaving Care Service, which has remained stable, and the percentage of care leavers accessing employment, education, and training, which is lower than expected. The rate of first-time entrants to the youth justice system per 100,000 young people was also noted as being higher than expected, with a deep dive analysis and action plan in development.

The committee also received an update on the Corporate Parenting Board, highlighting a moving video from a young care leaver and the positive impression made by new young directors. Reality checking visits to Shenstone School and Family Wellbeing Hubs were noted as having taken place. The Standing Joint Sub-Group on the SEND Priority Action Plan is awaiting the outcome of a SEND monitoring inspection before deciding on further meetings.

The committee was reminded of the upcoming visit to Shenstone School and the Family Wellbeing Hubs. Future work programme items include scrutinising the Children's Social Care Workforce Strategy and the Holiday Activities and Food Programme. The committee also noted potential future scrutiny topics such as vaping and the national reform agenda for children's services.