Decision details

1.

Title of Item/Report

Powering our Future - Transformation Reviews Update

2.

Record of the Decision

Consideration was given to a report that gave an update on the  Powering our Future - Transformation Reviews.

The Council’s Powering Our Future Programme provided a framework to modernise ways of working, focused on improving outcomes for residents, whilst ensuring the Council remained financially sustainable and resilient in the context of rising demand, budget pressures and increasing complexity. Powering Our Future included a Transformation Mission, and a series of reviews that sought to maximise use of resources, whilst continuing to support strong, inclusive and resilient communities across the Borough. Phase 1 of Transformation activity had already identified £9.9m of savings, and a number of key projects were in delivery.

The budget report to Council in February highlighted ongoing financial pressures arising from demand pressures and rising costs across several services, particularly Children’s and Adults’ Social Care, Home to School Transport and support for children with special educational needs. Demand was growing in both volume and complexity, while funding was not keeping pace with cost pressures, resulting in an estimated budget gap of £6.7m in 2026/27, rising to £13.8m in 2027/28 and £18.4m in 2028/29.

To address this, a second Phase of Transformation Reviews were introduced focused on day?to?day efficiencies, council?wide initiatives and outcome?based service reviews. The report provided Cabinet with an update on progress, and the contribution of activity towards closing the Medium Term Financial Plan budget gap. It focused primarily on Efficiency Reviews, where savings were front-loaded. Separate reports wiould be brought to Cabinet on the detail of Outcome-based Reviews as part of a planned approach and key milestones that ensured robust options and impact analysis.

RESOLVED that the progress of reviews to date and the activity towards closing the budget gap across the Medium Term Financial Plan be noted.

3.

Reasons for the Decision

To note the progress of Powering our Futures Transformation Mission and financial implications to date. 

4.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None

5.

Declared (Cabinet Member) Conflicts of Interest

None

6.

Details of any Dispensations

None

7.

Date and Time by which Call In must be executed

Not applicable – Report for noting only.