Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services.

The Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services concerning progress with the delivery of Children’s Centre services from September 2025.

Members noted that the report had been restricted after publication as non-public and sensitive information was contained within the report. However, Members agreed, to move debate of the item into the public part of the meeting. The Committee noted that any sensitive information that Members wished to discuss, could be addressed in the non-public section of the meeting.

Officers noted that the update focused on the transition of Children's Centre services from the Aldgate School to a broader city-wide approach, aiming to create a Family Hub offering holistic support from early childhood to young adulthood. The Committee were informed that the decision to not renew the service level agreement with Aldgate School was driven by the need to better meet residents' needs across the city and not for financial reasons.

Concerns were raised about the impact on affordable childcare and the need for a clear policy on future funding and provision. It was agreed that a policy paper on affordable childcare would be brought to the January Committee meeting. The importance of effective communication with parents and stakeholders was emphasised, with suggestions for improving transparency and addressing concerns about service continuity.

The Committee acknowledged the need for a contingency plan (Plan B) in case the new arrangements could not fully replace the current services by September 2025.