Agenda item

To receive an update on the implementation of the recommendations of the review on child poverty that was undertaken by the Panel in 2021-22 and responded to by Cabinet on 18 October 2022.

Jean Taylor, Head of Policy, provided an update on the implementation of the recommendations of the scrutiny review on child poverty.  A response to them had been provided by Cabinet in November 2022.  Ongoing work was taking place to address the cost of living pressures, which were having a significant impact on residents.  There was a disproportionate impact on children and young people and levels of child poverty were likely to be exacerbated.  Work on a coordinated response by the Council to cost of living pressures had continued until recently. The pressures were likely to continue for the foreseeable future as a result of a range of factors.  Work was taking place on how to re-frame the response for the longer term and, in particular, to identify the levers that were likely to have the greatest effect in mitigating the impact.  In particular, consideration was being given to how to increase the life chances of young people and increase social mobility.  The Haringey Community Gold project was continuing, with funding continuing until 2025 and work was taken place to embed the initiatives within it.   The Mayor had made a commitment to fund universal free school meals for the next academic year and work was takin place with schools on what would happen following this. 

In answer to a question regarding social mobility, she stated that work on this was at an early stage but there was an understanding of what the key levers were.  Being able to access the best possible education, having a range of specific needs addressed and support on transitions were all important and could determine life chances.  Access to opportunities outside of school were also important.  Holidays schemes could provide access to opportunities to participate in activities in sport or the arts. 

The Panel raised the issue of the identification of parents entitled to free school meals and the relationship with the pupil premium.  The Cabinet Member reported that the was a Council free school meals working group which she belonged to and which had discussed this particular issue.   The relevant form was currently being revised.  In addition, the Council’s admissions teams would be taking responsibility for this and would aim to obtain the national insurance number of parents.  It was anticipated that this would enable a better result to be obtained.

In answer to a question regarding period poverty, the Panel noted that there had been discussions with schools regarding this and that a scheme to assist was being rolled out.  Ms Hendricks agreed to circulate a briefing to the Panel on progress with this.

In answer to a question regarding clothing, the Cabinet Member reported that the Deborah Reiss Foundation provided a wide range of clothing for schools to distribute.  This was allocated according to levels of child poverty. 

The Chair thanked Ms Taylor for her report and presentation and asked that the Panel be kept informed of any relevant further developments.

AGREED:

That the Assistant Director of Safeguarding and Children’s Social Care be requested to provide a briefing note to the Panel on the progress with work to alleviate period poverty.