The Adult Social Care and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Warwickshire Council met on Wednesday 22 April 2026 to discuss the Council Plan 2026-2030 and review the committee's work programme. Key discussions included the strategic direction for adult social care, the importance of preventative measures, and the support for informal carers. The committee also considered the impact of potential local government reorganisation on the Council Plan.

Council Plan 2026-2030

The committee reviewed the draft Council Plan 2026-2030, which sets out the council's strategic direction for the next five years. The plan, which was approved by Cabinet in March, aims to embed prevention and well-being, support vulnerable adults to live independently, and improve recognition for informal carers. Specific objectives for adult social care include reducing health inequalities, tackling child poverty, and promoting financial and digital inclusion.

Councillor Anne-Marie, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health, highlighted the importance of preventative measures, stating, I think for years and years we've been talking the talk, whatever stripes or colours we are, and we've yet to walk the walk. She also emphasised the need for better support and recognition for informal carers, noting that they do save us an awful lot of money and they do a fantastic job.

During the discussion, concerns were raised about the plan's potential paternalistic approach and the balance between state reliance and personal responsibility. Councillor Kate Rolfe commented, I was expecting it to be a bit more radical. The committee also discussed the need to consider the Casey Commission's recommendations on the future of adult social care and the potential for a national care service.

The committee also considered the impact of potential local government reorganisation, with Councillor John Holland suggesting that the plan should be reviewed once the government announces its decision on the future structure of Warwickshire's local government in July.

Work Programme

The committee reviewed its Work Programme, agreeing to prioritise discussions on damp and mould in social and private rented housing, and a review of the council's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chair expressed frustration with the delay in discussing these important issues, particularly the COVID-19 review, due to potential conflicts with the ongoing parliamentary inquiry.

Several additional items were proposed for inclusion in the work programme:

• Winter Preparations Briefing: A briefing note on NHS winter preparations, typically received in September, and a review of how these preparations went, usually in February or March, should be scheduled.
• Cara's Sport and Respite: This item should be combined with discussions led by Councillor Becky Hale and Councillor John Holland regarding support for informal carers.
• Dementia Diagnosis and Support: A dedicated briefing on dementia diagnosis and support services was requested.
• Menopause Services: A briefing on menopause services was also suggested.
• CQC Update: An update from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) was proposed as a briefing item.
• Abolition of Healthwatch: A discussion on the abolition of Healthwatch and the transition to new arrangements for patient voice and experience was requested, with a presentation prepared by Councillor Chris.

The committee also discussed the need for a joint meeting with the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee to discuss issues related to children's mental health and the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns. Concerns were raised about the timing of such meetings to ensure maximum attendance.

Support for Informal Carers

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing support for informal carers. The committee heard that Warwickshire Council commissions the Carers' Trust to provide assessments and emergency support for both adult and child informal carers. However, concerns were raised about the availability of respite care and the need for better awareness and communication of available support services.

Councillor Tracey Drew highlighted the particular challenges faced by younger carers, questioning the appropriateness of expecting them to undertake non-age-appropriate caring responsibilities. The committee agreed that a dedicated session or briefing on carers' support would be beneficial, particularly in light of current work with the Carers' Trust on an action plan.

GP Surgeries and Section 106 Agreements

The committee revisited the issue of GP surgeries, particularly in Kenilworth, and the feasibility study for options appraisal. Councillor John Holland expressed concern about the delay in receiving an update, noting that residents were asking lots of questions. It was suggested that a session with the NHS on Section 106 agreements and general practice builds could be combined with the GP surgery discussion.

Other Matters

The committee noted apologies from Councillor Pamela Redford (Warwick District Council) and Councillor Max Langer. The reablement service was praised for receiving an outstanding rating. The committee also confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting, held on 25 February 2026, as documented in the Minutes of the Previous Meeting ASCH OSC 25 February 2026.