Birmingham considers scrapping Connexions to make savings

The report, written by Birmingham’s chief of Connexions Dave Foster, also proposes a 25 per cent cut in the service, making 27 frontline staff members redundant. The third option is a 35 per cent cut, making 52 frontline staff members redundant.

In the report, Foster warns that ceasing the service altogether will leave the council unable to meet its statutory obligations to offer impartial advice and guidance to all young people and further support for those with learning disabilities.

But he adds that whatever option councillors choose, the consequences will be bleak for young people not in education, employment or training (Neet).

"The Neet figure will rise and this will impact on the more vulnerable and at risk where additional personal adviser support is needed alongside the traditional guidance role," he explains. "Reducing the level of impartial guidance in schools will increase the number of young people identified as potentially Neet and increase Neet numbers in future years.

"More young people will not have clear, planned progression routes into education, training and employment leaving them more vulnerable and at risk."

Foster suggests that the council could save around £2.7m a year by cutting the service by 25 per cent, and £3.8m a year with a 35 per cent cut. He adds that ceasing the service altogether would eventually save around £9m a year.

The report is now being considered by Les Lawrence, lead cabinet member for children, young people and families in Birmingham. Despite Foster’s stark warnings, Lawrence is likely to choose an option next month.

Last month Birmingham City Council revealed that it would be making up to 430 people redundant, with Connexions likely to be the worst hit area.