Decision details

The Chief Officer (Financial Services) submitted a report which presented the projected financial health position of the Authority for 2020/21, as at month 1 of the financial year.

With regard to a Member’s comments regarding the appended action plan which looked to address the pressures upon the ‘Children Looked After’ budget for 2020/21 and the approach being taken to deal with any increased demand for related services which could potentially arise as a consequence of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Board was advised that a detailed set of actions were in place to address such matters and that such information could be shared with Board Members, as required. Also, it was noted that there was a focus upon the transfer of children and young people currently in external placements to foster care wherever possible and appropriate, which was alongside the actions being taken aimed at increasing the recruitment levels of foster carers in Leeds.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the projected financial position of the Authority, as at Month 1 of the 2020/21 financial year be noted, and that the projected impact of COVID-19 on that position also be noted;

(b)  That the savings plan, as provided by the Director of Children and Families which identifies initial proposals to address pressures in ‘Children Looked After’ budgets and the reduction in grant funding as announced after the 2020/21 budget had been set, be noted; 

(c)  That in line with principles laid out by Government, it be noted that the Council has continued to charge schools as normal for Council services disrupted by COVID-19, for which they have a regular financial commitment.