Agenda item

 Robert Hardy presented a report setting out the financial concerns affecting the 2016/17 High Needs Block (HNB) and suggesting a range of approaches needing to be considered so that action can be taken in the short, medium and longer term. It was noted that there is significant projected overspend in 2016-17, possibly around £800k.  An LA working group is looking at the pressures and possible options.

Members of Schools Forum welcomed the openness of the paper.

It was agreed that the HNB Task Group be convened to support the process and recovery plan. Jacqueline Laver to be included in the group.

Paul McAteer asked if there may be additional resources available as Slough is the only Trust to include SEND. It was suggested that a case had not yet been made but this could be an option.

Helen Huntley mentioned that many out borough placements are driven by social care needs as the education needs can be met in Slough. It was noted that a lack of foster cares in Slough is part of the problem.

Helen also referred to the need to look at policy issues such as transition. It was noted that any High Needs review needs to be within the context of review of overall policy for SEND support.

Debbie Richards referred to the pressures on special schools currently taking children with no additional funding.

The Resource Base Review was raised. Robert Hardy indicated that work is ongoing and the next stages of the review will be completed by December. Any re-designation will be done in conjunction with Headteachers. A report will come to the January meeting of the Schools Forum.

It was noted that, following the resource base capacity review, while capital investment may be available to support increased SEND capacity, there may be difficulties with revenue funding for places.

It was note that the recent Gatekeeper item re SEND mentioned a new appointment and it was agreed that contact details would be circulated. an up to date list of who does what was requested.

It was noted that whist the pressures on the HNB are fully understood, there is pressure nationally not to be sympathetic to requests to move money to the HNB from the Schools Block.

Johnny Kyriacou stressed the importance of being solution focussed and agreed that going to the DfE for additional financial support as the only Trust with SEND was a good idea and should be pursued.