The Green Group at Bath and North East Somerset Council is driving forward critical measures to safeguard the welfare of children and young people in the region. At the recent Children, Adults, Health and Wellbeing Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel the Green Group highlighted key concerns, including:
- Corporate Parenting Accountability: A cross-party motion led by Green councillors recommended changes to the Constitution Working Group to enhance clarity around councillors’ roles as Corporate Parents, ensuring greater transparency and responsibility in supporting children in care.
- School Streets: Cllr Wright stressed the need to accelerate the School Streets programme, designed to improve road safety and air quality near schools, encouraging safer, healthier routes for children to walk and cycle. The public health data on active travel for young people is compelling.
- Black History Month: The BathNes Green group called for continued focus on promoting Black History Month, encouraging the Council to ensure that all sections of society celebrate the contributions of Black people to society, culture, and history.
- Free School Meals: Green councillors also pushed for an expansion of Free School Meals to address food insecurity and ensure no child in the area goes hungry, particularly during times of economic hardship.
Cllr Joanna Wright added:
“As councillors, we must take swift and meaningful action to protect the wellbeing of our children. From strengthening our responsibility as Corporate Parents to addressing inequalities in education and health, we are committed to creating a future where all children and young people have the opportunity to thrive.”
The Green Group remains focused on driving these initiatives forward, ensuring a healthy, inclusive, and supportive environment for the region’s young people.