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.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here