Agenda item

Update from Deborah Glassbrook SEND Improvement Advisor

Deborah Glassbrook, SEND Improvement Advisor, attended the meeting to provide an update following the recent SEND inspection and stocktake. She explained that Bury was one of the 69 areas inspected under the new SEND and alternative provision framework, ranking 31st in the sequence. While 15 areas received mostly positive outcomes, Bury was identified as having widespread and significant failings, placing it among the authorities with substantial improvement work to undertake. Deborah acknowledged the challenge but highlighted the strong work of the SEND Improvement and Assurance Board in responding to the inspection findings.

She outlined the strategic overview of the improvement response, noting that Section 2 of the report details priority actions and areas where progress has already been made. The work is being tracked through a RAG-rated progress framework and a full risk register, providing a clear understanding of both achievements and areas still requiring attention. Deborah emphasised the strength of the partnership, particularly the involvement of young people and the role of Bury2Gether in holding the system to account. She noted the positive collaboration between the council and health partners and expressed hope that schools would soon become statutory partners under the improvement notice issued by the Department for Education.

The stocktake process assesses progress at six and twelve-month intervals, and Deborah reported that the recent review was very positive, with no new concerns raised beyond those already identified. She described it as a strong reflection of the partnership’s efforts and commitment. Looking ahead, she acknowledged ongoing challenges, including an 18-month monitoring inspection and delays to the next formal visit. Key areas of focus include embedding the workforce strategy and improving understanding of data relating to children and young people across Bury. She expressed confidence in the direction of travel, especially considering upcoming changes linked to the ICB and national white paper.

A member of the committee thanked Deborah for her contribution and reiterated the importance of the local area SEND inspection as a shared responsibility across the council and its partners. Another member found the presentation useful and raised concerns about access to support, particularly long waiting times and the impact of NHS service pressures such as adult ADHD consultations and staffing shortages. Deborah acknowledged these challenges, noting that while health partners have been highly supportive, wait times remain a national issue. She stressed the importance of understanding the reasons behind delays and maintaining pressure to improve outcomes, recognising that while progress is being made, there are limits to what can be achieved locally.

Further comments from the committee recognised the efforts of NHS colleagues and the broader system in addressing inequalities and supporting children and young people. It was noted that Bury’s waiting times are relatively favourable compared to other Greater Manchester authorities, and additional funding has been secured to support ADHD services. The work was described as well-respected and part of a wider regional effort. The Board was asked to note the report and consider how colleagues can remain engaged with this agenda moving forward.

It Was Agreed

·         The update be noted

·         Deborah be thanked for attending to provide the update