Agenda and draft minutes

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To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting held on 22 April 2026.

RESOLVED – that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 22 April 2026 be confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chair.

To review and reconfirm the Terms of Reference for the Children & Young People Scrutiny Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year.

The Managing Solicitor: Children and Adults presented the report setting out the Terms of Reference for the Committee for the 2026/27 municipal year.

Members were advised that the Constitution required each Committee to undertake an annual review of its Terms of Reference and following the Annual General Meeting in May 2026, authority had been delegated by Full Council for Committees to approve their own Terms of Reference.

It was noted that there were no proposed changes.

RESOLVED – that the Terms of Reference set out in Appendix A of the report be approved.

To approve the draft work programme for the 2026/27 municipal year.

The Managing Solicitor: Children and Adults presented the draft work programme for 2026/27. Members were advised that the programme had been considered by Scrutiny Management Board and reflected suggestions received through the annual consultation process.

The Committee heard that future scheduled items included an update on SEND reforms, Education Attainment and the Telford & Wrekin Local Safeguarding Children Board Annual Report. It was also noted that a number of topics remained to be programmed, including the Children & Young People's Strategy, the Family First Partnership, Good Level of Development and a joint workshop on Children’s Mental Health.

Members noted that there remained flexibility within the work programme to incorporate additional items should emerging issues arise during the municipal year.

RESOLVED – that the work programme for 2026/27 be approved.

To receive an update on the Happy, Healthy & Active Holidays programme.

The Interim Director: Education & Skills presented the report which provided an overview of the Healthy Happy Active Holidays (HHAH) Programme and its development across Telford and Wrekin.

Members heard that the programme formed the borough's delivery model for the national Holiday Activities and Food Programme and aimed to support children and young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing healthy meals, enrichment opportunities and social activities during school holidays.

The Committee were advised that the programme had expanded considerably since 2022, growing from a small number of providers to a network of more than 70 organisations delivering provision across the borough. Summer delivery now offered approximately 16,000 places with around 20,000 places available across the academic year. Activities included sports, outdoor learning, cooking sessions, creative activities and transition support for Year 6 pupils.

Particular emphasis was placed on the programme's inclusive approach. Members heard that SEND provision had increased significantly and that additional specialist sessions had been commissioned in response to feedback from families. The service worked closely with PODS and other partners to ensure provision met local needs whilst also supporting inclusion within mainstream activities wherever possible.

The Committee was advised that future development would focus on increasing participation rates, particularly amongst secondary-aged young people and strengthening links between HHAH and the wider youth offer. Funding had been secured nationally until 2029, providing stability to support the continued development of the programme.

Members welcomed the report and commended officers and delivery partners for the success of the programme. Members highlighted the importance of the programme in supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged families during the school holidays, recognising that extended breaks from school could be particularly challenging for some children and families.

The Committee welcomed the continuation of funding until 2029 and expressed hope that Government support would continue beyond this date. Members also welcomed the expansion of SEND provision and the close partnership working with local stakeholders, particularly PODS, noting the value of providing opportunities for children who may struggle within traditional school settings. Particular praise was given to the cooking and nutrition activities delivered through the programme, with Members recognising the importance of developing practical life skills whilst enabling children and families to prepare healthy meals together within their communities.

The Committee discussed the recent expansion of Free School Meal eligibility and sought assurance regarding the programme's capacity to accommodate any increase in demand. Members also welcomed the decision to expand the winter offer, recognising that families often face additional financial pressures during the colder months and school holidays over the Christmas period.

The Council's responsiveness to feedback was praised, alongside the strong collaborative relationships that existed between the Council, schools, community organisations, Family Hubs and other partners. Members further highlighted the benefits of the programme in supporting children during the transition from primary to secondary education by providing opportunities to meet and build relationships with peers from different schools before starting Year 7.

In response, the Interim Director: Education & Skills advised that capacity and participation levels were  ...  view the full minutes text for item CYP5

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