Value for money, stronger governance and increasing specialist school places for children with SEND were among the key issues discussed at the Cabinet meeting on 15 October.
Cabinet agreed to progress plans for four additional children's homes by 2030, helping more children remain in local residential, fostering, kinship care and supported accommodation provision.
The Council currently operates five children's homes, all rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. Approving the recommendations of the Council’s Homes for Children Sufficiency Strategy, means four additional homes will be built by 2030 with more children remaining in Warwickshire while reducing reliance on costly out-of-county placements. A typical weekly private placement costs around £7,5000 whereas a Warwickshire County Council placement costs up to around £5,000.
Cabinet also approved an updated Code of Corporate Governance, setting out how the council makes decisions, manages risks and ensures public money is used responsibly. The code helps ensure the council is accountable for its actions and focused on delivering services that meet residents’ needs and provide value for money.
Members also considered a review of policies and processes covering Warwickshire’s libraries and other public spaces, including the management of book displays, events and children’s areas. Cabinet agreed that officers should take forward the review’s recommendations, which include updating staff guidance and training, developing clearer guidance for displays and room hire, and exploring ways to better reflect the needs of local communities.
Members also approved plans to repurpose the former Great Alne School site near Alcester to create 40 additional Specialist Education Provision places for primary-aged children. The proposal is an important step towards addressing the current shortfall of specialist places in Warwickshire, providing a cost-effective solution that enables more children to learn closer to home and within their communities. Read more about this story here: Former Great Alne Primary School site could be used for specialist education
Cllr George Finch, Leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: "Today’s decisions reflect our commitment to finding better, simpler ways of doing things while making every pound count. Whether it's creating more specialist school places, investing in children's homes within Warwickshire, or strengthening the way we manage contracts and services, we're focused on delivering the best outcomes at the best value.
“By bringing services closer to home and improving the way we work, we're making services more reliable, more responsive and better able to meet the needs of Warwickshire residents. At the same time, we're reducing unnecessary costs and ensuring strong governance, accountability and value for money across the council."
Watch the webcast and see all papers here: Warwickshire County Council Cabinet - 15 October 2026