Decision details

That

1.  The latest financial position be considered.

2.  It be noted that a projected net overspend on services of £14,206k is forecast based on information as at December 2023.

3.  The comments from Chief Officers detailed in Appendix 2 be noted.

4.  The projected reduction to the General Fund balance of £147k as detailed in section 3.3 of the report be noted.

5.  The full year cost pressures of £21.1m as detailed in section 3.4 of the report be noted.

6.  The release of funding from the 2023/24 central contingency as detailed in paragraphs 3.2.2 to 3.2.5 of the report be agreed.

7.  The set aside £2.2m into an earmarked reserve to support the revenue budget for 2025/26 as detailed in section 3.8 of the report be agreed.

8.  The issues regarding the Community Equipment contract as detailed in paragraph 3.9 and in Part 2 of this report be noted.

9.  Any issues that should be referred to individual Portfolio Holders for further action be identified.

10.  Additional funding DSG funding of £470k be approved to strengthen early support for Speech and Language services in key local schools, which will for early identification and intervention for a trial period of one year. This investment is expected to generate greater savings (in excess of £470k) to reduce the DSG Deficit.

To note that the outcome of the additional investment will be reported back to members in considering options for ongoing funding.