Resolved -

(1)       That the children’s home at Valley View that has previously provided care for disabled children should be confirmed for closure on the basis that it has been effectively inoperative for nearly twelve months and does not provide a physical environment that is consistent with the care of children.

(2)     That alongside the decision to close Valley View it is also recommended that the former BEST service does not resume on the basis that the health funding that underpinned it has been directed into other alternative projects.

(3)       That the previous decision to allocate capital funding for a new build project at Fell Lane is rescinded on the grounds that the scale and nature of the proposed project is no longer consistent with the services strategic needs.

(4)     That in principle agreement is given for a potential new build project aimed at increasing short term break capacity for disabled children and in particular those with complex needs associated with neuro-diversity developmental issues.

(5)       That in principle, agreement is given for the development of six additional small group homes via either purchase or rental to include the disposal of the site at Meadowlea, to be replaced with two linked small group homes with a revised focus.

(6)       That in principle agreement is given to the development of linked staying close flats via either purchase or rental for the supported transition of young people from the homes into the community

ACTION: Strategic Director of Children’s Services