Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Education, Children and Adult Services Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Wednesday 11 February 2015 at 10.05 am.

Present:

Highland Council:

Dr D Alston, Mr A Baxter (Substitute), Mrs I Campbell, Miss J Campbell (Substitute), Mr A Christie (Chair), Mr I Cockburn (Substitute), Mrs M Davidson, Ms J Douglas, Mr B Fernie, Mr K Gowans, Mr D Hendry, Mrs D Mackay, Mr W Mackay, Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs B McAllister, Mr D Millar, Ms L Munro, Mrs M Paterson, Mrs F Robertson, Ms G Ross (Vice Chair), Mr G Ross, Ms J Slater, Ms M Smith, Ms K Stephen

NHS Highland:

Mrs M Duncan
Dr H van Woerden

Religious Representatives:

Dr A Fraser
Ms M McCulloch
Mr G Smith

Youth Convener:

Mr S Finlayson

Non-Members also present:

Mrs H Carmichael,Mr B Clark,Mr B Lobban,Mr A Mackinnon,Mr T MacLennan,Mr K MacLeod,Mr J McGillivray,Mr B Murphy,Mr R Rhind,Mr J Stone

In attendance:

Mr B Alexander, Director of Care and Learning
Ms S Campbell, Head of Children’s Services, Care and Learning Service
Ms S MacLeod, Head of Health, Care and Learning Service
Mr J Steven, Head of Education, Care and Learning Service
Mr R Campbell, Estate Strategy Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms R Binks, Quality Improvement Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms L Jones, ICT in Learning Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms N Murray, Facilities Services Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms C King, Health Improvement Policy Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms M Campbell, Development Officer – Disability, Care and Learning Service
Ms A Gordon, Resource Manager – Fostering and Adoption, Care and Learning Service
Mr N Thomson, Head Teacher, Upper Achintore Primary School
Ms L Gordon, Head Teacher, Alness Academy
Mr E Foster, Finance Manager, Finance Service

An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council. All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee.

Mr A Christie in the Chair

Business

Preliminaries

The Chair welcomed Dr H van Woerden, the newly appointed Director of Public Health and Health Policy, NHS Highland, to the Committee.

In terms of Standing Order 18, the Committee AGREED that agenda item 12 – School Meal Working Group Update - would be considered immediately after item 10 and agenda item 17 – ICT in Learning Strategy – would be considered immediately after item 3.

1. Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr B Gormley, Mr M Green, Mr M Rattray and Mr M Foxley.

2. Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 7 – Ms F Robertson (non-financial)
Item 8 – Mr K Gowans (non-financial)
Item 10 – Mr A Baxter, Mr A Christie, Mr K Gowans and Mr D Hendry (financial)
Item 12 – Ms J Douglas (non-financial)

Dr D Alston declared a non-financial interest in those items relating to integrated health and social care services as a Board Member of NHS Highland but, in terms of the Specific Exclusion in Section 5.18(2)(i) of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, remained to participate in discussion on those items.

Ms G Ross declared a financial interest in those items which might raise discussion on Thurso High School, as her husband was a teacher at the school, and advised that if there was any specific discussion in relation to Thurso High School she would leave the room.

3. Presentation: Delivery of the Broad General Education
Taisbeanadh: Lìbhrigeadh an Fhoghlaim Fharsaing Choitchinn

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/17/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which informed Members about the support provided by the Authority to take forward the Broad General Education (BGE) in Highland schools.

The report supported a presentation by pupils from Upper Achintore Primary School on their involvement in their learning. It was explained that they used Learning Journey Folders to reflect on their learning, show progress and celebrate achievements. The folders contained two sheets, to be completed at the start of each school year, on learning styles and pupils’ feelings about school. Detailed Information was provided on Achievements and Certificates; Target Sheets; Tweet Boards, Individual Learner’s Statements; “All About Me” Sheets; Blooms Boards; Think Walls; “Skill of the Week” Boards; Wow/Magic Moment Walls; and Review Sheets for Topics.

Ms R Binks, Quality Improvement Officer, and Mr N Thomson, Head Teacher, Upper Achintore Primary School, then undertook a presentation during which it was explained that the curriculum was now wider than the school day and schools were focusing on the skills of children and young people, regardless of the context. This meant that pupils could articulate their learning and were developing early skills for learning, life and work. Detailed information was provided on progression through all curricular areas, inter-disciplinary learning and assessment and tracking. In particular, it was explained that there was a need to have summative judgements on a learner’s progress and it was necessary to ensure this happened in a non-bureaucratic way. Charts were presented which set out the curriculum framework and what learning was like today and examples were provided of how it worked in practice.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the presentation was evidence of how inspired the pupils had been by their learning experience and put in to perspective the relevance of learner engagement;
• it was encouraging to see the critical crossovers being brought forward in the classroom;
• industry was increasingly looking for people with inter-disciplinary skills and the fact that children were beginning to develop such skills at an early age was very positive;
• confident learners who were able to evaluate and take responsibility for their own learning would become effective practitioners in the future;
• placing the child at the centre and focusing on their skills and attributes to make the best of their abilities was key;
• nowadays, people competed in a global market and were unlikely to have only one career in their lifetime. It was essential, therefore, to give young people a “toolkit” that facilitated them in lifelong learning;
• there was still some uncertainty by parents in terms of the next stage when secondary school pupils moved out of the BGE and in to a new examination system at the end of S3. In response, the Chairman confirmed that he would discuss the possibility of bringing a report to Committee on the information provided to parents in relation to Curriculum for Excellence;
• in relation to the SEEMiS management information system, information was sought on how it was proposed to resolve the tracking issue with regard to the BGE and whether this was a national issue;
• historically, only a few ways of learning were valued and that led to inequalities;
• the way in which young people were being encouraged to reflect on how they learned was welcomed;
• whilst welcoming the report, the most significant change had taken place in secondary schools and a follow-up report was sought on issues including the impact of the BGE on the move from a three-stage to a two-stage secondary education, how inter-disciplinary learning had been received in secondary schools and the notion that the change in the curriculum would impact on the number of national qualifications pupils were able to take as they made their way through the senior phase. In response, the Chairman confirmed that a report would be presented to a future meeting of the Committee;
• in disadvantaged families, there was very little understanding of the pathways young people needed to take to get in to whatever profession they might aspire to and it was important to help them support their children to develop the necessary skills. In response, the Chairman confirmed that this issue, including links with other Council Services, could be incorporated in the follow-up report on the BGE in secondary schools; and
• the Highland Science Academy offered young women and their families the opportunity to work towards future careers in science and engineering fields.

Thereafter, having commended the inspirational presentation, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the issues raised in the report and presentation; and
ii. AGREED that a report on the issues surrounding the Broad General Education in secondary schools be presented to a future meeting of the Committee.

17. ICT in Learning Strategy
Ro-innleachd TFC ann an Ionnsachadh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/32/15 dated 3 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided Members with information on engagement activities and outcomes that had informed a new Vision and Strategic Action Plan designed to take forward ICT in Learning for Highland Schools.

The report also updated Members on the process and next steps for ICT reprovision relating to schools.

During discussion, Members welcomed this inspirational and exciting initiative within Highland Schools which would have a positive benefit for all and expressed the hope that the Council would continue to be at the forefront of the development of new technology.

It was also stressed that this should be seen as an aid to other forms of learning and should encompass all ages, from nursery age children through to senior members of teaching staff within all Schools. As well as taking important steps towards equalising education for all, there was the potential for significant savings to be made and it was therefore important that as much flexibility as possible was built into the Care and Learning Service to support future development.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the breadth of engagement and research activities to date; and
ii. AGREED to endorse the ICT in Learning draft Strategic Action Plan.

4. Revenue Budget 2014/15 – Monitoring
Buidseat Teachd-a-steach 2014/15 – Sgrùdadh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/18/15 dated 3 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided the Care and Learning Service budget monitoring for the period to 31 December 2014 and the forecast year-end position, an overspend of £0.626m, equivalent to a variance of 0.16%.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• further information was requested on the significant areas of underspend referred to in the report, particularly the variance of £0.878m in relation to services for vulnerable adults;
• clarification was sought regarding the risks in relation to Devolved School Management (DSM) carry forward balances. In response, the Chairman explained that the risks referred to in the report related to the current financial year but that discussions had taken and would continue to take place with Head Teachers and financial support staff regarding the changes to future years’ budgets;
• in response to concerns regarding the lack of supply cover, the Chairman explained that recruitment campaigns had been carried out and the number of supply teachers had increased. However, there continued to be a shortage, not only in rural areas but throughout Highland, and this was heightened in the winter months when colds and flu were rife;
• information was sought on the reasons for the significant year end variance in relation to staff costs. In response, the Chairman confirmed that this would be circulated to Members of the Committee;
• where posts were being held or there were long term vacancies, it was suggested that workforce planning and recruitment be discussed at District Partnership level;
• the statement in the report relating to the commissioned adult services budget was inadequate for monitoring purposes and it was requested that discussions take place at the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny (ASDS) Sub-Committee regarding scrutiny and governance and how Members could receive assurances on significant issues such as delayed discharge and care at home. In response, the Chairman explained that the statement was intended for reporting purposes. However, he concurred it was essential to ensure proper scrutiny and governance of the Council’s investment in NHS Highland and confirmed that that would take place at the ASDS Sub-Committee;
• concern was expressed that the use of probationer teachers in primary schools led to a lack of continuity for the children and teachers leaving Highland because they could not obtain a permanent position. Information was sought on the current position and what steps were taken to retain those who performed particularly well;
• information was requested, broken down by Ward, on the cost of using private hire cars to transport children with Additional Support Needs to school. The Chairman confirmed that he would arrange for that to be circulated;
• in relation to DSM budgets, clarification was sought on the position with regard to secondary schools that had become overstaffed as a result of falling school rolls; and
• thanks were expressed to officers for the additional information provided in Appendix 2 of the report.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. APPROVED the monitoring statement;
ii. NOTED the areas of budget pressures and mitigating actions to date;
iii. AGREED that information on the reasons for the year end variance in relation to staff costs be circulated to Members of the Committee; and
iv. AGREED that a breakdown, by Ward, of the cost of using private hire cars to transport children with Additional Support Needs to school be provided to Members of the Committee.

5. Capital Expenditure 2014/15 - Monitoring
Caiteachas Calpa 2014/15 - Sgrùdadh

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/19/15 dated 1 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which advised on progress with the Care and Learning capital programme and the monitoring forecast for the period to end December 2014. The estimated year-end position was an underspend of £9.481m.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to the new Noss Primary School project, reference was made to the recent storm damage and information was sought as to whether the completion date would be affected;
• on behalf of Wick High School Parent Council, disappointment was expressed regarding the continuing delays to the Wick Community Campus project. The final completion date was now April 2017 and an explanation for the latest delay was requested. It having been confirmed that an update would be provided to Local Members, the Chairman emphasised the importance of communication with stakeholders and requested that he also receive an update;
• clarification was sought in relation to the free school meals project budget and where the £5m contribution from the Scottish Government was reflected. The Chairman confirmed that this would be reported at the next meeting of the Committee;
• concern was expressed regarding the significant underspend on the capital programme and information was sought as to why it had not been brought down and what happened to the associated revenue costs;
• the forthcoming refurbishment of the Elgin Hostel building in Portree was welcomed and thanks were expressed to all those involved for keeping the local steering group informed. In this connection, the work undertaken in relation to the new Gaelic Primary School in Portree was also welcomed;
• concern was expressed regarding the condition of Broadford Primary School and the detrimental effect on the morale of pupils and staff. It was requested that steps be taken to alleviate the problems as soon as possible and that the process of providing a new build primary school in Broadford, one of the main centres in Skye, be expedited. The Chairman confirmed that an update would be provided to the Ward Business Meeting and Members of the Committee;
• concern was expressed regarding the continued use of the Black Isle Education Centre and information was sought on the number of children currently attending and the transport costs involved. In response, it was explained that alternative provision for children with social, emotional and behavioural needs in Ross-shire was being examined and discussions had taken place with Local Members. A report on progress would be presented to a future meeting of the Committee;
• an update on progress with the provision of a new classroom at Auchtertyre Primary School was requested. The Chairman undertook to discuss the matter with Ward Members to see how he could help move matters forward; and
• the Albert Roux Kitchen at Charleston Academy had been a transformational project and one of the students had become British Apprentice of the Year. Thanks were expressed to all those involved in bringing the project to fruition.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i. NOTED the position as at the end of December 2014 for the 2014/15 capital programme as outlined in paragraph 2.1 and detailed in Appendix 1 of the report;
ii. NOTED the status of the major capital projects as detailed in Appendix 2 of the report;
iii. NOTED that the future investment priorities for the school estate would be brought to a future meeting of the Committee as detailed in paragraph 2.3 of the report;
iv. AGREED that further information on the timescale for completion of the Wick Community Campus project be provided to the Chairman and Local Members;
v. AGREED that an update on how it was proposed to address the condition of Broadford Primary School be provided to the Ward Business Meeting and Members of the Committee; and
vi. AGREED that a report on progress in identifying alternative provision for children with social, emotional and behavioural needs in Ross-shire be presented to a future meeting of the Committee.

6. Inspection of Adult Services
Sgrùdadh Sheirbheisean Inbheach

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/20/15 dated 19 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an update on the Joint Inspection of Social Work and Health Services for Older People by the Care Inspectorate and Healthcare Improvement Scotland.

The Committee NOTED the process of the inspection of older people’s services in Highland.

7. Sustainable School Estate Review – Tain
Ath-sgrùdadh Oighreachd Sgoiltean Seasmhach – Baile Dhubhthaich

Declaration of Interest:

Ms F Robertson declared a non-financial interest in this item as Vice Chair of Tain Royal Academy Parent Council but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her involvement in the discussion.

Following conclusion of the statutory consultation process, there had been circulated Report No ECAS/21/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which set out a recommendation to improve school accommodation provision in Tain through the establishment of a new 3-18 campus on the site of the present Tain Royal Academy, replacing all other education provision within Tain, including the present Tain Royal Academy, Craighill Primary School, Knockbreck Primary School and St Duthus Special School. The appendices to the report were circulated separately as Booklets A and B.

The Chairman drew attention to a number of representations received following publication of the agenda. These were tabled for Members’ consideration.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the proposal was a great opportunity for Tain and Easter Ross and thanks were expressed to officers for their efforts in progressing matters and taking on board the issues raised by the community. In particular, the second public meeting had been very useful as there had previously been a lack of information on the educational benefits of a 3 to 18 campus;
• the stakeholder group would be very involved in the design of the school and it was hoped it would address, at an early stage, some of the issues raised during the consultation period such as whether the site was big enough, the accuracy of the school roll projections and accommodation for Gaelic Medium Education. The proximity of the site to existing housing was also a concern and it was important to liaise with the occupants and involve them in the stakeholder group;
• education was the ladder out of poverty and the majority of the community were supportive of the proposal and enthusiastic about the opportunities it would provide for children and young people in the future;
• the existing Community Complex was vitally important to the local community and it was essential that all of the facilities it housed were incorporated and, hopefully, enhanced in the new campus; and
• whilst welcoming the investment in Tain and Easter Ross, it was important to be prudent and concern was expressed regarding the significant costs involved in providing modular units. Reference was made to the modular accommodation recently installed on the St Duthus School site and it was suggested that this was large enough to accommodate both the English and Gaelic Medium nurseries rather than providing further temporary modular accommodation on the current Craighill Primary School site. In response, the Chairman emphasised that the modular units were an interim solution and would be utilised elsewhere when no longer required at Craighill Primary School.

* Thereafter, the Chairman having welcomed the positive comments from Local Members as to how the project was perceived by the local community, the Committee AGREED TO RECOMMEND to the Council that it:-

i. discontinue education provision at the following campuses – Craighill Primary School, Knockbreck Primary School and St Duthus Special School – and relocate provision to a new 3 to 18 campus to be established on the site of the existing Tain Royal Academy;
ii. as an interim measure, until the proposed 3 to 18 campus was available, relocate current pre-school provision from St Duthus School campus (English medium) and Knockbreck Primary School campus (Gaelic medium) to temporary modular accommodation on the current Craighill Primary School campus;
iii. establish a new 3 to 18 community campus on the site of the existing Tain Royal Academy comprising Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Additional Support Needs and Gaelic Medium provision to replace all other local authority education provision within Tain, including the existing Tain Royal Academy and Community Complex; and
iv. combine the existing school catchment areas of Craighill Primary School and Knockbreck Primary School to become the catchment area of the new combined Primary School within the 3 to 18 campus.

8. Inverness Primary Schools Update
Fios as Ùr mu Bhun-Sgoiltean Inbhir Nis

Declaration of Interest:

Mr K Gowans declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of having a child in Primary School in Inverness but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/22/15 dated 30 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which advised of progress in analysing the effect of roll pressures facing primary schools in Inverness. It also identified the most immediate priorities for future capital investment and some of the other measures that might have to be introduced.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• concern was expressed regarding the proposed use of general purpose areas as classrooms and it was suggested that consideration be given, at an early stage, to installing temporary accommodation. The Chairman explained that it was a matter of continually working with Parent Councils and teachers to ensure the curriculum was being delivered and determining, on a case by case basis, how long general purpose areas would be unavailable for. Schools often did not have the necessary infrastructure, in terms of toilets, canteen facilities etc, to support temporary accommodation and it was necessary to resolve the issue of school capacity in a holistic way rather than simply implementing temporary measures;
• Inverness had changed significantly over the past few decades and the school infrastructure had been affected by different pressures in different areas. The overview in the report was welcomed;
• concern was expressed regarding the pressure on parent parking/drop off areas at some schools. Smithton Primary School was particularly badly affected and it was requested that this be taken into account when considering the potential extension of the school;
• the importance of communication with Local Members, Head Teachers and Parent Councils was emphasised. There might also be a role for Community Councils;
• secondary school rolls were more predictable than primary school rolls and it was important to include secondary schools in the planning process to ensure that similar capacity issues were not encountered in the future;
• the priority was to deal with the acute pressures on primary schools and develop plans for a sustainable solution that would ensure children had the best possible learning experience. The measures in the report would enable officers to mitigate the immediate pressures. However, information was sought on when a plan to address the longer term issues would be presented to the Committee. The Chairman confirmed that an update report would be presented to the next meeting and, thereafter, the Committee could start to finalise plans;
• Merkinch Primary School was at the heart of the most deprived area in Highland and there was a case for a new model of integrated children’s services community school, encompassing the existing Family Centre and other services, which would bring public sector jobs in to the community. In addition, there was a lack of sporting facilities in Merkinch and South Kessock and consideration should be given to what facilities could be built in to the primary school for community use. It was important to provide as much physical activity as possible in deprived areas and concern was expressed regarding the use of the existing gym hall as a dining room. With regard to parent parking/drop off, it was highlighted that many families in the area did not have transport and consequently there was sufficient room on the existing site. Whilst disappointment was expressed that further temporary classrooms might have to be installed, the prioritisation of Merkinch Primary was welcomed. The Chairman confirmed that a feasibility study would take place as soon as possible and, with the aim of finalise the capital programme at the next full Council meeting, funding would have to be identified for the SSER, roll pressures and lifecycle maintenance; and
• the statement that Kinmylies Primary School was likely to remain within planning capacity for the next five years was questioned. The trunk road west link could have an impact very quickly and it was requested that the situation be monitored and regular updates be provided.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED the priorities for future capital investment and the other potential measures outlined in the report.

9. Children’s Services
Seirbheisean Chloinne

There had been circulated, as item 9(i) on the agenda, Report No ECAS/23/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an update on the performance framework for Children’s Services.

There had also been circulated, as item 9(ii) on the agenda, Report No ECAS/24/15 dated 30 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning, comprising an assurance report on the Lead Agency delivery of Children’s Services, the purpose of which was to provide assurance to NHS Highland in relation to services commissioned and delivered through Highland Council.

The Committee AGREED to consider both circulated reports together.

During discussion, Members welcomed the changes made to the presentation of the report and raised the following issues:-

• referring to the update on Looked After Children in the Assurance Report, it was hoped that the commission from NHS Highland would be clearly identified, particularly in terms of the support provided for initiatives and ensuring progress towards agreed outcomes. This was especially pertinent as there was currently a lack of data from some performance indicators. It was difficult to assess how funds were being spent or where support was being directed and it was hoped that the narrative of future reports could provide greater clarity;
• supplementary to this, there was a requirement for increased financial monitoring information and updates on progress towards expected outcomes for both children and adult services. If this information were available it would contribute to continuous improvements throughout integrated services;
• more information was required on breastfeeding rates during in-hospital stay, on discharge and at intervals thereafter. It was hoped that this might clarify why progress was not being made in breastfeeding levels. Inclusion of statistics on mixed feeding would also be helpful. It was also queried why nurseries could not make use of toys that would encourage young children to accept breastfeeding as normal. In this connection, it would be helpful for a report back to Committee on how current plans and processes to normalise breastfeeding had been rolled out from nursery throughout secondary schools;
• concerns were expressed at the difficulties experienced in accessing midwifery treatment. The anxiety that this situation created would no doubt impact on breastfeeding rates;
• clarification was sought on “rebuilding” naming conventions to improve accuracy of data in relation to waiting times for AHP services;
• there were gaps in the Performance Report indicating that data was still awaited from NHS and it was queried what could be done to improve this situation;
• in relation to Indicator 94, the report indicated that the exclusion rate for Looked After Children was decreasing. However, the data for June recorded an increase and, as the entry was still colour-coded green, this required further examination;
• IT connectivity issues between NHS and Highland Council had been flagged up as a risk for some time and it was disappointing that this had still not been solved and should be given a high priority as it was now creating impacts on the levels of information available;
• it would be helpful to assess, within the context of family teams, whether Indicators 46, 47 and 48 on dental care could be used to prompt other actions to address health inequalities;
• waiting times for AHP services were still poor and it was queried whether other ways of dealing with these issues could be identified;
• some entries in the performance report had not improved for over 2 years and drivers for change should be applied to these areas, particularly those relating to breastfeeding and looked after children;
• poor performance in kinship care was now recorded and needed to be picked up through the recommendations of For Highland’s Children 4; and
• concerns were expressed in relation to the permanence project Caithness Family Team. It was requested that updates on this situation be presented to the Committee in the future, particularly in relation to the recruitment process to fill long-term vacancies.

The Committee:-

i. NOTED the performance information;
ii. NOTED the issues raised in the assurance report;
iii. NOTED that the format of the assurance report remained under review;
iv. AGREED that the issues raised during discussion in relation to breastfeeding would be incorporated in future reports;
v. AGREED, in relation to Indicator 94 – the exclusion rate for Looked After Children, that the colour coding would be examined prior to the next meeting of the Committee; and
vi. AGREED, in relation to the Caithness Family Team Permanence Project, that a briefing be provided to Local Members and the position be monitored.

10. Free School Meals
Biadh-sgoile An-asgaidh

Declarations of Interest:

Mr A Baxter, Mr A Christie, Mr K Gowans and Mr D Hendry declared a financial interest in this item on the grounds of having children who received free school meals but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interest did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/25/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided an update on the successful project delivery and implementation of the provision of universal free school meals for Primary 1 to 3 pupils from January 2015.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• to avoid adaptations in future years, it was important to build in future-proofing when looking at capital works as many P1-3 pupils might continue with school meals when they reached P4 and discussions regarding this were already taking place with pupils, Catering staff and Parent Councils. Investigation was also taking place to ascertain if there had been an increase in P4-7 pupils taking school meals, especially where there was a younger sibling who was eligible for free school meals;
• in relation to pupils who just missed out on being eligible for free school meals, the impact on household income for some families could be significant;
• free school meals ensured that children had at least one nutritious meal a day. A number of other countries provided free school meals as they recognised the benefits that could be generated;
• it was disappointing, given the considerable effort made to publicise it, that many parents/carers had still not been aware of the initiative when it had launched at the start of January 2015. When looking at IT in schools there was merit in including communication with parents and to look at how they could, in future, be better engaged;
• Members welcomed the tastings taking place in some schools at lunch times. When this was offered to P1-3 pupils, where children were unfamiliar with different foods, involving parents might help encourage them to try new foods. It would also be useful to have innovative approaches and ideas circulated around other schools and nurseries; and
• concern was expressed that Merkinch Primary had seen the least increase in uptake of school meals and it was important that this was investigated.

Having thanked the Service for introducing the initiative timeously and with minimum disruption, the Committee NOTED:-

i. the successful implementation of universal provision of free school meals for Primary 1 to 3 pupils from January 2015;
ii. that further communication and promotion would be undertaken to raise awareness and increase uptake; and
iii. that there would be ongoing monitoring of progress and a future report once the service had bedded in and further uptake data was available.

12. School Meal Working Group Update
Fios as Ùr mu Bhuidheann-obrach Bidhe Sgoiltean

Declaration of Interest:

Ms J Douglas declared a non-financial interest in this item on the grounds of having children who took school meals but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/27/15 dated 3 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which explained that the School Meals Stakeholder Group was established at the Adult and Children’s Services Committee in November 2012. The Group had broadened its scope to cover all food in schools. The report provided Members with the third update on progress.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• information was sought, and received regarding the composition of the School Meals Stakeholder Group. The involvement of the Youth Convener was particularly important;
• “Grow Your Own” initiatives, where pupils were involved in growing, cooking and then eating produce, were encouraged. It was acknowledged that there were implications in terms of time, staffing and being able to set aside pockets of ground but there was merit in exploring how this could be extended;
• disappointment was expressed that school meal uptake had remained static and it would be useful to have reports back as to how the various options had fared;
• the reasons why pupils chose not to take school meals had to be ascertained, especially those who were eligible for free school meals. Some Members suggested that it was because pupils had the freedom to pick exactly what they wanted, as opposed to the healthy options the Council were required to provide, and perhaps consideration should be given to providing such food but in a healthier way than other suppliers. In addition, there was also the social aspect of leaving the school with friends;
• confirmation was sought as to how the funding allocation from the Scottish Government compared to the costs that were being incurred in producing school meals;
• whilst recognising that the cost of school meals was reasonable, over a period of time it did mount up and was further exacerbated when there was more than one child in a family. This then became an issue about affordability, especially for those families who just fell short of qualifying for free school meals and who suffered from in-work poverty. Consequently, the increase in school meal prices over the next 4 years was likely to have a detrimental impact on these families; and
• it was queried if payment balances for school meals could be checked on-line and, if so, if they could be topped up as and when parents were financially able to do so.

The Committee:-

i. NOTED the progress of the School Meals/Food in Schools Stakeholder Group; and
ii. AGREED that the possibility of more schools growing their own food be explored at a future meeting of the School Meals Working Group.

11. District Partnerships
Com-pàirteachasan Sgìre

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/26/15 dated 30 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which provided information to Members regarding the matters currently being discussed at District Partnerships.

In discussion, attention was brought to the summary of local issues that had been provided for the Inverness East District and it was highlighted that the innovative approach for delivering home care in rural areas had, in fact, been driven and developed by the community and it was important that they were given due credit.

Continuing, other Members welcomed the introduction of District Partnership as it offered a forum for problem solving and for action to be taken expeditiously. They were still evolving but the shift towards grass roots community planning was applauded. The success of the Sutherland District Partnership was highlighted and where initiatives to engage the public had included contacting Community Councils informing them of the Partnership’s role and asking them to consider putting health care and community safety as a standing item on their agendas. Furthermore, to address social inequalities, they had liaised with local Citizens Advice Bureaus asking them to submit their social policy items through the Partnership. There was a degree however of overlap with the Area Committee and, while it was important to avoid duplication, it was also important to look at best practise. Sutherland, while covering a wide geographical area, had a small population and Local Members were of the view that issues affecting the area should be addressed at a local level. Consequently, they made calls for the District Partnership’s boundary to be re-examined so that it covered all of Sutherland, recognising that it might need to be revisited depending on outcome of the Boundary Commission’s review.

The Committee NOTED the issues raised in the report.

13. Family Support Work Review
Ath-sgrùdadh air Obair Taic Theaghlaichean

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/28/15 dated 3 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which updated Members on the review of support work within care and protection, children’s disability and early years’ services. The report sought agreement to the reallocation of these budgets as part of the proposed model.

The Committee AGREED:-

i. the allocation of support work funding and posts as set out in the report;
ii. the re-allocation of funds for self directed support; and
iii. that the funding allocation for community capacity building should be the subject of a future report.

14. Annual Report – Fostering and Adoption Services
Aithisg Bhliadhnail – Seirbheisean Altramais agus Uchd-mhacachd

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/29/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which updated Members on the work of Fostering and Adoption Services over the past year.

Reference was made to the Intensive Fostering scheme and the legislative changes which would allow children to remain with foster carers beyond 18 years of age. This would place increasing demand on the Service. In relation to Intensive Fostering, it was pointed out that fostering children with complex needs or significant behavioural issues placed great demands on foster carers and this needed to be recognised given the impact this also had on the foster family’s ability to earn.

The Committee NOTED the issues raised in the report.

15. Fees for Foster and Adoptive Carers
Cosgaisean airson Luchd-cùraim Altramais agus Uchd-mhacachd

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/30/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which set out the need to review the current payment structure for fees and allowances for foster carers.

In this regard, and during discussion, it was suggested that arrangements should be put in place to ensure that the payment structure was reviewed annually in future.

Thereafter, the Committee AGREED:-

i. that there should be no increase in allowances at this time as it was expected that the matter would be addressed in an imminent announcement by the Scottish Government; and
ii. an increase of 4% in fees for carers funded from the allocated 2015/16 budget pressure for looked after children.

16. Self Directed Support
Taic Fèin-stiùirichte

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/31/15 dated 2 February 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which confirmed that the implementation of Self Directed Support required resources to be freed up by re-shaping services at the same time as reducing overall spend. The current spend on services for children with disabilities remained in excess of budget due to the factors outlined in this and previous reports.

In this regard, the report outlined various options, their likely impact on service provision and proposals to consult on options for change.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• it should be recognised that there were likely to be further options identified as part of the consultation process (in addition to those which had been highlighted within the report) and these would also be given detailed consideration;
• this was a very complex issue which had the potential for a wide ranging impact on both the Council and the Third Sector and as such the consultation process had to ensure that a real and targeted effort was made to contact and liaise with ‘hard to reach’ carers who might not otherwise be able to contribute;
• discussions were continuing with NHS Highland regarding an adjustment to current financial arrangements to provide the necessary home care component of Direct Payments and in this regard there was a need for a report on this issue, with timescales included, to be submitted to the next meeting in May;
• it would be important, following the consultation process, for clear statements to be issued in terms of what was not going to be dismantled in order to provide clarity and reassurance for all concerned;
• there were some very interesting future possibilities in relation to Self Directed Support in Adult Social Care and recent examples whereby some recipients had pooled resources to pay the private sector to provide Adult packages of care. In this respect, it was suggested that this could perhaps be introduced more widely in certain geographic areas and further detailed consideration was required in order to ascertain feasibility;
• awareness raising of all the issues involved was crucial and could perhaps be implemented through Workshop Sessions in the first instance; and
• there was a need for both the Council and NHS Highland to consider and identify future plans for Self Directed Support to ensure consistency, with particular emphasis placed on transitions from Children to Adult Services.

Thereafter, the Committee AGREED:-

i. to a consultation on service and financial options for those people who currently used Self Directed Support packages or who might require and choose one in the future; and
ii. that a report, including timescales, on the financial arrangements in relation to the Care at Home component of direct payments be presented to the Committee on 20 May 2015.

18. Home to School Transport Policy Review
Ath-sgrùdadh Poileasaidh mu Chòmhdhail Dachaigh gu Sgoil

There had been circulated Report No ECAS/33/15 dated 30 January 2015 by the Director of Care and Learning which advised Members of the commencement of a review in to the Council’s Home to School Transport Policy.

During discussion, Members raised the following issues:-

• it had been a number of years since a review had been undertaken into the school transport policy and as such this report was welcomed;
• in terms of the scope of the review, it would be especially important to focus on provision to assess entitlement on road safety grounds where parents were unable to accompany their children on a walking route;
• as part of the aims of the review, there was a need to highlight and clarify the responsibilities of the Council, contractors and parents/guardians;
• there was a need to incorporate the importance of the benefits from winter tyres as part of the general awareness of safety issues;
• clarity was required on who would feed into this review;
• the condition of the buses used by the Council should be paramount in the review;
• careful and sensitive consideration should be given to the growing instances of pupils living at more than one address as a result of parents’ marital status; and
• this review had to be meaningful in terms of ensuring that improvements were evidenced by all concerned.

Thereafter, the Committee otherwise NOTED the commencement and scope of the review and that a further report would be brought to a future meeting of the Committee.

19. Appointment of Representative to the Board of Partnerships for Wellbeing
Riochdaire ga Chur an Dreuchd gu Bòrd nan Com-pàirteachasan airson Mathais

It was noted that Partnerships for Wellbeing was a Company Limited by Guarantee with Charitable Status, the aim of which was to identity and manage projects which would improve the health and wellbeing of people in the Highlands.

The Council currently had two representatives on the Board, Mr H Wood and Ms J Douglas. In this regard, Ms J Douglas had intimated her intention to stand down and there was now a vacancy on the Board.

* The Committee AGREED TO RECOMMEND to the Council that Miss J Campbell be appointed to the Board of Partnerships for Wellbeing.

The meeting concluded at 1.20 pm.