Exploring a regional co-operative to improve quality and value for money

20th August 2025

Luke Myer MP is calling for an overhaul of children’s social care across the Tees Valley, urging local authorities to explore the creation of a Tees Valley Care Co-operative.

Drawing on his experience as former Cabinet Member for Children on Redcar and Cleveland Council, Luke has written to council leaders and children’s services leads across the region, arguing that pooling resources could strengthen quality control, create a more stable market, and deliver better value for money.

The proposal reflects recommendations from the MacAlister Review of Children’s Social Care, which advised the establishment of regional care co-operatives. The current government has begun piloting such models elsewhere, but Luke believes the Tees Valley has a unique opportunity to take the lead locally.

Luke said:
“Children’s social care is one of the fastest-growing financial pressures on councils, with rising placement costs often forcing local authorities to raise council tax. That hits families in the most deprived communities hardest. By working together, our five councils can commission services more effectively, get better value for money, and most importantly, deliver the right support for vulnerable children. Now is the right time to have this conversation.”

The Evening Gazette reports that following Luke’s intervention, Tees Valley council leaders have agreed to set up a time-limited task force to examine options, including a regional care co-operative, expanded public or not-for-profit provision, or alternative models.

Luke has offered to support and help facilitate discussions, ensuring that the region takes a proactive approach to shaping its future rather than having a model imposed from Westminster.