Issue - meetings

Cabinet Member: Children and Young People

Forward Plan Ref: 26/138

Contact: Shona Harris, Transformation Programme Manager (Shona.Harris@oxfordshire.gov.uk)

Report by Director of Children’s Services (CAB8)

This report sets out the proposed strategic direction for the development and implementation of Best Start Family Hubs in Oxfordshire, as a core delivery mechanism for the council’s Best Start in Life Plan.

Cabinet is RECOMMENDED to

a)    Approve the strategic direction of travel for Best Start Family Hubs in Oxfordshire and delegate authority to the Director of Children’s Services for the delivery of the proposal, including the expenditure of the Department for Education (DfE) Grant and budget.

Cabinet had before it a report setting out the strategic direction for the Best Start Family Hubs in Oxfordshire as a core delivery mechanism in the Council’s Best Start in Life Plan, which responded to the national ambition for 75% of children to achieve a good level of development by age five by 2028.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, introduced the report and outlined proposals for a network of family hubs operating across five localities, supported by voluntary, community and faith sector organisations. Particular emphasis was placed on improving outcomes for children and families, supporting school readiness and tackling inequalities.

Members highlighted the importance of partnership working, the contribution of community-run family centres and opportunities for integration with wider health and wellbeing services, whilst welcoming ongoing discussions regarding provision in Wantage and Grove.

Councillor Gaul moved and Councillor Gregory seconded the recommendations and they were approved.

RESOLVED to:

a)    Approve the strategic direction of travel for Best Start Family Hubs in Oxfordshire and delegate authority to the Director of Children’s Services for the delivery of the proposal, including the expenditure of the Department for Education (DfE) Grant and budget.