Issue - items at meetings - Services to Young People 2012-2015 - Joint Commissioning Strategy

Report of the Strategic Director, People (copy attached)

(1)       That the Services for Young People Joint Commissioning Strategy is agreed; and

(2)       That the Cabinet Member authorises the Strategic Director of People to proceed with the transitional arrangements necessary to implement the proposed strategy.

26.1    The Cabinet Member considered a report of the Strategic Director, People detailing the proposed “Services for Young People:  Joint Commissioning Strategy 2012-15”.

26.2    The Lead Commissioner Children, Families and Youth explained that Statutory Guidance on Section 507B of the Education Act 1996 had set a requirement for all local authorities to provide sufficient positive leisure time activities for its young people which promote their wellbeing and are being delivered using youth work methods and approaches. He went on to explain that Section 1 summmarised the Youth Review Process and Joint Strategic Needs Assessment. The assessment had found positive youth services but had also identified  areas for further work. Section 2 of the report had sought to decsribe the outcomes for young people identified during the review and assessment process. Section 3 of the report set out a strategy for achieving the desired outcomes.

26.3    Councillor Wealls enquired regarding the timeframe for entering into new funding agreements, this seemed very short, it was explained however that the evaluation and short listing process was realistic and although subject to change set targets which were achievable.

26.4    Councillor Marsh welcomed the report but was disappointed that the process appeared to be lengthy. Councillor Marsh also enquired regarding the new administrative arrangements, particularly in relation to the JCB. The Cabinet Member stated that the final form of the Committee system which was to be re-instated had yet to be finalised as had where some future responsibilities would lie.

26.5    The Lead Commissioner explained that this approach represented a different approach which was intended to move this area of work forward. Councillor Wealls stated that it was important to ensure that there was proper and meaningful dialogue  between all of the parties.

26.6    RESOLVED - (1) That the Services for Young People Joint Commissioning Strategy is agreed; and

(2) That the Cabinet Member authorises the Strategic Director of People to proceed with the transitional arrangements necessary to implement the proposed strategy.