That the Forum:

a)    Notes the High Needs forecast outturn position for 2023/24;

b)    Notes the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) allocation for 2024/25 for the Schools, High Needs and Early Years blocks:

c)    Considers the recommendations of the Budget Working Group (BWG) held on 11 March 2024; and

d)    Recommends a High Needs Budget of £29.7 million for 2024/25 for approval by the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People as set out in Appendix 1, noting the funding gap in 2024/25 of £6.5 million.