Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services and Chair of Children, Young People and Families Partnership Board that presented Cabinet with the Growing Up in County Durham (GUiCD) 2023-25 Strategy for endorsement (for copy see file of minutes).

Councillor T Henderson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People’s Services informed Cabinet that the views of Children and Young People had been listened to. Their views had guided the development of the strategy. Alongside this there had been a comprehensive consultation process which included a wide range of stakeholders, key partners and the voluntary and community sector and most importantly children, young people and their families. The strategy was written in an easy to understand format and focussed on adding to the excellent work already taking place across the County. Councillor Henderson was confident that the strategy included the correct actions for children and young people and their families and fully supported the vision.

Councillor J Shuttleworth, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Rural Communities and Highways, commented that during the consultation process many children and young people spoke of the importance of being able to go out in the community and access services, particularly after the series of lockdowns throughout the coronavirus pandemic. They recognised the importance of being able to socialise face to face and go to leisure facilities. As Portfolio Holder for Rural Communities and Highways, living in a rural community in County Durham during hard financial times made it difficult for people to access services they wanted or needed. It was pleasing to note that public transport issues had been recognised within the strategy.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be noted.