Public reports pack
Argyll and Bute Council · 5 March 2026
Back to Community Services Committee — 5 March 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Argyll and Bute Council Comhairle Earra-Ghàidheal Agus Bhòid Executive Director: Douglas Hendry Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT Tel: 01546 605522 DX 599700 LOCHGILPHEAD 26 February 2026 NOTICE OF MEETING A meeting of the COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE will be held ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD AND BY MICROSOFT TEAMS on THURSDAY, 5 MARCH 2026 at 10:30 AM, which you are requested to attend. Douglas Hendry Executive Director BUSINESS 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3. MINUTE (Pages 3 - 10) Community Services Committee held on 11 December 2025 4. POLICE SCOTLAND ARGYLL & BUTE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY REPORT - REPORTING PERIOD: APRIL - DECEMBER 2025 (Pages 11 - 22) Report by Divisional Commander for Argyll and Bute, West Dunbartonshire Division, Police Scotland 5. SCOTTISH FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE - ARGYLL & BUTE PERFORMANCE AND SCRUTINY GROUP 2025-26 Q3 SCRUTINY REPORT (Pages 23 - 38) Report by Local Senior Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 6. ARGYLL & BUTE HSCP - PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ2 2025/26 (JULY - SEPTEMBER) (Pages 39 - 68) Report by Senior Manager Performance & Improvement, Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership 7. ACHIEVEMENT OF CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE LEVELS 2024/25 (Pages 69 - 116) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education 8. FINAL ATTAINMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT REPORT Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education (to follow) Public Document Pack
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9. LUING PRIMARY SCHOOL - TEMPORARY CLOSURE REVIEW (Pages 117 - 122) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education REPORTS FOR NOTING 10. EXTERNAL EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTION REPORT (Pages 123 - 130) Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education 11. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE WORK PLAN 2025/2026 (Pages 131 - 132) Community Services Committee Councillor Jan Brown Councillor Maurice Corry Councillor Audrey Forrest Councillor Kieron Green (Chair) Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Daniel Hampsey Councillor Graham Hardie Councillor Anne Horn Councillor Fiona Howard Councillor Mark Irvine Councillor Jennifer Kean Councillor Paul Donald Kennedy Councillor Dougie McFadzean (Vice-Chair) Councillor Yvonne McNeilly Councillor Gemma Penfold Councillor Dougie Philand Margaret Anderson Lorna Stewart Daniel Semple Reverend Dorothy Wallace Contact: Fiona McCallum Tel: 01546 604392
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MINUTES of MEETING of COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE held ON A HYBRID BASIS IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, KILMORY, LOCHGILPHEAD AND BY MICROSOFT TEAM on THURSDAY, 11 DECEMBER 2025 Present: Councillor Kieron Green (Chair) Councillor Maurice Corry Councillor Amanda Hampsey Councillor Graham Hardie Councillor Fiona Howard Councillor Jennifer Kean Councillor Paul Donald Kennedy Councillor Dougie McFadzean Councillor Gemma Penfold Councillor Dougie Philand Margaret Anderson, Church Representative Daniel Semple, Teacher Representative Also Present: Attending: Councillor Willie Hume Douglas Hendry, Executive Director Wendy Brownlie, Head of Education: Performance and Improvement Ross McLaughlin, Head of Commercial Services Stuart McLean, Committee Manager Graeme McMillan, Transformation Programme Manager Susan Galloway, Education Manager Simon Easton, Education Manager Shian, Doyle, Dunoon Grammar School Jen McCann, Dunoon Grammar School Chief Superintendent Gary I’Anson, Police Scotland Superintendent Lynsey Booth, Police Scotland Chief Inspector James McArthur, Police Scotland Chief Inspector Lee Page, Police Scotland Inspector Bart Simonis, Police Scotland Station Commander Rob Taylor, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Watch Commander Tony McGloin, Local Authority Liaison Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Evan Beswick, Chief Officer, Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership Charlotte Craig, Business Improvement Manager, Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Jan Brown, Audrey Forrest and Daniel Hampsey, Anne Horn and Yvonne McNeilly, and from Lorna Stewart (Teacher representative) and Reverend Dorothy Wallace (Church representative). 2. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest. 3. MINUTE The Minute of the Community Services Committee held on 28 August 2025 was approved as a correct record. Page 3 Agenda Item 3
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4. POLICE SCOTLAND ARGYLL & BUTE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY REPORT - REPORTING PERIOD: APRIL 2025 - SEPTEMBER 2025 Chief Superintendent Garry I’Anson presented the Argyll and Bute Performance Summary Report of Police Scotland’s Policing Priorities for April – September 2025 and responded to questions asked. With the aid of power point slides a presentation on local activities was also given by Chief Inspector James MacArthur, Chief Inspector Lee Page and Superintendent Lynsey Booth and thereafter Officers responded to questions asked. Decision The Community Services Committee reviewed and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Report for April – September 2025 by Divisional Commander for Argyll & Bute & West Dunbartonshire Division, Police Scotland, submitted) Margaret Anderson, Church Representative, joined the meeting during consideration of the foregoing item. 5. SCOTTISH FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE - ARGYLL & BUTE PERFORMANCE SCRUTINY GROUP 2025-26 Q2 SCRUTINY REPORT With the aid of power point slides Station Commander Rob Taylor and Watch Commander Tony McGloin presented a report highlighting Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s review of local performance and partnership working within Argyll and Bute for Q2 (1 July – 30 September 2025) and responded to questions asked. Decision The Community Services Committee reviewed and noted the contents of the report. (Reference: Q2 2025/26 Report by Local Senior Officer, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, submitted) The Chair ruled, and the Committee agreed, to vary the order of business and consider Agenda item 9 next to allow the Officer presenting Agenda items 6, 7 and 8 time to join the meeting. 6. CARE EXPERIENCED CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE 2024-25 ACADEMIC YEAR REPORT A report providing the Community Services Committee with an update on actions being taken within the Education Service to support Care Experienced Children and Young People to achieve the best possible educational outcomes was considered. A presentation by Shian Doyle, a pupil from Dunoon Grammar School, on her lived experience was also given. Decision The Community Services Committee: Page 4
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1. continued to endorse the work undertaken by Argyll and Bute Education Services as part of the Corporate Parenting Board to improve the educational attainment and life chances of Care Experienced Children and Young People; 2. noted that the spending plan for the grant allocated by Scottish Government to Argyll and Bute for session 2024- 25 from the Scottish Attainment Challenge Care Experienced Children and Young People Fund had been produced and monitored by the Education Lead for Care Experienced Children and Young People, in consultation with key partners and specifically the Social Work Lead for Care Experience, the Chief Education Officer and Chief Social Worker; 3. noted the significant progress made in reducing the attainment gap between Care Experienced and all learners; 4. noted the continued progress made across key indicators including sustained reduction in exclusions, increased staff awareness and confidence in supporting Care Experienced learners and partnership working to drive positive change; 5. agreed the attainment funding for Care Experienced Children and Young People would support the continued input from the Care Experienced Education Team (Virtual Head Teacher and Health and Wellbeing Liaison Officers); 6. agreed that the Chief Education Officer continues to provide updates on the improved outcomes for Care Experienced Children and Young People to the Corporate Parenting Board and /Community Services Committee. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated 11 December 2025, submitted) 7. ARGYLL & BUTE HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP - PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ4 2024/25 A reporting detailing performance for FQ4 (January – March 2025) 2024/25 for Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership was before the Committee for consideration. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. acknowledged performance for FQ4 2024/25 (January – March 2025); 2. acknowledged performance update on the National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators (Appendix 1); and 3. noted Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 31 March 2025 (Appendix 2). (Reference: Report by Senior Manager, Performance & Improvement, Argyll & Bute HSCP dated 11 December 2025, submitted) Page 5
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8. ARGYLL & BUTE HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP - PERFORMANCE REPORT - FQ1 2025/26 A reporting detailing performance for FQ1 (April – June 2025) 2025/26 for Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership was before the Committee for consideration. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. noted revised suite of 77 Key Performance Indictors within the Integrated Performance Management Framework for 2025/26; 2. considered performance for FQ1 2025/26 (April – June 2025); 3. noted Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 30 June 2025 (Appendix 1); and 4. acknowledged latest performance against the National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators (Appendix 2). (Reference: Report by Senior Manager, Performance & Improvement, Argyll & Bute HSCP dated 11 December 2025, submitted) 9. EDUCATION PERFORMANCE DATA ANALYSIS 2024-25 A report aiming to give an overview of essential performance data and outcomes for all students in Argyll and Bute’s ten secondary schools for the 2024/2025 academic session, utilising local authority attainment data along with information provided by the Scottish Government’s Insight tool, was considered. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. considered the information contained in this report; 2. commended the hard work and commitment of pupils and staff in securing these levels of attainment and achievement and recognised the crucial role in such success played by parents and carers in partnership with the schools; 3. noted the SQA directive that, because of the different assessment arrangements in place each year over the period 2020-2023, meaningful comparison was limited between current results and performance in recent previous sessions; and 4. noted that a further report would come to a future meeting of the Committee once final Insight data for session 2024-2025 was made available in the February 2026 Insight update. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated December 2025, submitted) Page 6
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10. ARGYLL & BUTE HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE PARTNERSHIP - ANNUAL REPORT 2024/25 The Annual Performance Report for the Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership for the year 2024/25 was before the Committee for consideration. Decision The Community Services Committee noted and considered the Annual Performance Report for the Health and Social Care Partnership for the year 2024/25. (Report by Business Improvement Manager, Argyll & Bute HSCP dated 11 December 2025, submitted) The Chair ruled, and the Committee agreed to take a short comfort break at 12.25 pm. The Committee reconvened at 12.30 pm with all those present as per the sederunt. 11. ANNUAL PARTICIPATION MEASURE 2024-25 A report providing Members with information on the most recent Annual Participation Measure published by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) in August 2025, covering the period April 2024 – March 2025, was considered. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. considered the information in relation to the 2024-2025 Annual Participation Measure; 2. noted the increase in Participation in Argyll and Bute from 2023-24 to 2024-25, and the narrowing of the poverty-related attainment gap in Participation during the same period; and 3. noted the consistently strong performance of Argyll and Bute as a council area in facilitating the participation of 16 - 19 year olds. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated 11 December 2025, submitted) 12. SCHOOLS (CONSULTATION) (SCOTLAND) ACT 2010 - FURNACE PRIMARY SCHOOL A report updating the Community Services Committee on the current status of Furnace Primary School and inviting Members to agree to the recommendations outlined, was considered. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. noted the decision of the Committee in December 2024, and the updated position of the school as set out within this report; Page 7
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2. agreed that Furnace Primary School continues to be mothballed on a temporary basis and the school premises be retained on a care and maintenance basis; 3. noted that since December 2024 there had been requests for school lets and should any further let requests be made, they would be considered in light of the current condition of the building and any existing lets; and 4. agreed that the Education Service would undertake the required preliminary engagement for Furnace Primary School, in compliance with the preliminary requirements as set out in the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 and thereafter prepare an Options Appraisal for Members’ consideration at the June 2026 meeting of the Community Services Committee. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated 7 November 2025, submitted) At this point Councillors Maurice Corry, and Fiona Howard advised in relation to item 13 of the agenda (Live Argyll – Monitoring and Performance Reporting) that they had been appointed to the Live Argyll Board by the Council. Having taken note of the updated Standards Commission Guidance in relation to declarations (issued on 7 December 2021) with specific reference to section 5.4(c) they did not consider that they had a relevant connection and as such would remain in the meeting during the consideration of this item of Business. 13. LIVE ARGYLL - MONITORING AND PERFORMANCE REPORTING A report providing the Community Services Committee with the annual update on performance and monitoring arrangements between Live Argyll (LA) and the Council as set out in the various agreements between the Council and the Trust was considered. Decision The Community Services Committee: 1. considered the contents of this report together with the Live Argyll Annual Report 2024/25 attached at Appendix 1; and 2. noted that the Live Argyll Business Plan 2026/27 was currently under production following initial consideration at Council on 26 November 2025 and would be brought back to Budget Meeting in February 2026. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Commercial Services dated December 2025 and Live Argyll Annual Report 2024/25, submitted) 14. CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE SERVICES PROGRESS REPORT 2025 A report on the second annual review of the Children and Young People’s Services Plan 2023 – 2026 which provided an overview of performance and progress to date in delivering the agreed outcomes was considered. Decision The Community Services Committee: Page 8
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1. noted that Argyll & Bute Council were jointly responsible for children’s services planning along with NHS Highland through the Community Planning Partnership; 2. noted the significant work of the wider multi-agency children’s planning partners including many third sector partners along with the Scottish Reporters Administration, Scottish Fire and Rescue and Police Scotland; 3. noted the progress indicated within the Children and Young People’s Services Plan 2023 – 26; and 4. endorsed the review submitted to Scottish Government as per legislative requirement. (Reference: Report for Head of Children, Families and Justice Services/Chief Social Work Officer, Argyll and Bute HSCP dated 28 November 2025 and Year 2 (2024/25) Annual Review of the Children and Young People’s Services Plan 2023 - 2026, submitted) 15. EXTERNAL EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTION REPORT A report providing details of all external establishment inspection reports received across Argyll and Bute Education Service during the period August to December 2025 was before the Committee for information. Decision The Committee noted:- 1. the contents of this report; 2. this quarterly report would be presented on an ongoing basis to the Community Services Committee detailing all establishment inspections conducted and published by Education Scotland within that period; and 3. that Ward Members would receive copies of school inspection reports for schools within their area as published by Education Scotland. (Reference: Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Education dated November 2025, submitted) 16. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE WORK PLAN 2025 - 2026 The Community Services Committee work plan for 2054-2026 was before the Committee for information. Decision The Committee noted the contents of the work plan. (Reference: Community Services Committee Work Plan 2025-2026, submitted) Page 9
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL x Argyll & Bute Performance Summary Report Reporting Period: April to Dec 2025 Total Crime 655 Crimes Incidents 14,406 Overall Dishonesty 631 Domestic Abuse Inc 534 +9.3% +1.6% +4.3% +2.4% +30.3% -40%* Road Deaths & Serious Injuries 29 -0.8%* Sexual Crime 228 -735*PYTD, -1474*5YR AVG +52*PYTD, +143*5YR AVG +10*PYTD, +63*5YR AVG +22*PYTD, +27*5YR AVG +19*PYTD, +147*5YR AVG +53*PYTD, +53*5YR AVG -19*on PYTD -10*PYTD Violent Crime 814 Missing People 135 Counter Terrorism +34*PYTD +33.7%* -10*PYTD, -23*5YR AVG Common Assault 610 -21.3% Housebreaking 37 Disorder Complaints 1290 The National Terrorism Threat level is SUBSTANTIAL This means that an attack is likely. *PYTD = Previous Year to Date *5YR = 5-year average +13% -4.9% Page 11 Agenda Item 4
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL SECTION PAGE NUMBER Introduction 2 Executive Summary 3 Demand Analysis 4 Acquisitive Crime 5 Public Protection 6 Road Safety 7 Serious Organised Crime 8 Violence 9 Antisocial Behaviour 10 Public Confidence - Complaints & Allegations 11 Introduction I am pleased to present this performance summary report to Committee for its information and consideration. The Reporting Period for this report is cumulative for Quarters 1 to 4 of 2025/26, with available figures being shown from 1st April 2025 through to 31st December 2025. Please note that all data included in this report are management information and not official statistics. All data are sourced from Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as of date of publication. Unless stated otherwise numerical comparisons are against the previous year to date and the previous five-year average for the same data period specified. Crimes and offences are grouped under recognised categories for statistical purposes. The Scottish Government defines these categories, as follows: Group 1 - Non-Sexual Crimes of Violence Group 6 – Anti-social offences Group 2 - Sexual Crimes Group 7 – Miscellaneous Offences Group 3 - Crimes of Dishonesty Group 8 – Road traffic offences Group 4 – Damage and reckless behaviour PYTD - Previous Year to Date Group 5 – Crimes against society CYTD - Current Year to Date Page 12
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL PRIORITY AREA EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Acquisitive Crime At the end of Qtr. 3, acquisitive crimes have seen a slight increase of 1.6% from 621 to 631 crimes. This has largely been driven by an increase in common thefts throughout Argyll and Bute (+19.4%), while shoplifting (-26) and housebreaking offences (-10) have both seen reductions year on year. Public Protection Group 2 sexual crimes have also risen by 30.3% from 175 to 228 crimes. Sexual assaults have seen an increase of 24 crimes year on year while rape offences have reduced marginally by 5. Crimes relating to indecent images/communications have also continued to record a considerable increase (+41 crimes) compared to the position in 2024/25. Road Safety & Road Crime We continue to record a positive reduction in the number of casualties involved in road traffic collisions within Argyll and Bute compared to last year. The number of fatal road traffic collisions within Argyll and Bute has reduced slightly from 6 to 3 as at the end of Qtr. 3. Road traffic collisions involving serious injuries have also decreased from 42 to 26 and slight injuries reduced from 65 to 50. Serious Organised Crime At the end of Qtr. 3, drug supply offences have reduced slightly with 23 crimes compared to 28 the previous year, whilst possession charges have shown a notable increase of 10.5% from 313 to 346. Across Argyll & West Dunbartonshire 20 crimes linked to persons associated with serious and organised crime have been recorded and £109,226 has been seized under POCA since 1st April 2025. Violence & ASB At the end of Qtr. 3 Group 1 crimes of violence have increased by 2.4% with 814 crimes compared to 795 the previous year to date, while anti-social behaviour (ASB) related crimes have increased by 14.6% from 734 to 841 crimes. 1. Acquisitive Crime 2. Public Protection 3. Road Safety & Road Crime 4. Serious Organised Crime 5. Violence & Anti-social behaviour ARGYLL & BUTE POLICING PRIORITIES 2023-2026 Page 13
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL CRIME PYTD CYTD INCIDENTS PYTD CYTD Total Crimes & Offences 4989 5644 Total number of incidents 15,141 14,406 DEMAND ANALYSIS - * PYTD - PREVIOUS YEAR TO DATE CYTD - CURRENT YEAR TO DATE * * * * The total volume of crimes and offences recorded within Argyll and Bute has increased by 13% from the previous year and is currently above the previous 5-year average (4949). This is down from 19% in the previous reporting period. With the exception of a marginal reduction in crimes relating to damage and reckless behaviour, all crime types have experienced a rise in figures compared to the position in 2024/25 as at the end of Qtr. 3. Road traffic offences have seen the highest increase (+329) followed by Group 5 crimes against society (+111) and Group 6 anti- social offences (+107). Page 14
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL ACQUISITIVE CRIME Common thefts have experienced the highest increase in terms of acquisitive crime from 155 to 185 crimes, which is currently above the 5-year average (171). In Argyll various thefts have occurred in/around Oban town centre relating to thefts of used cooking oil, while various thefts of machinery, power tools and construction materials have also been recorded at building sites and boathouses/marinas throughout the local authority. The detection rate for common theft has reduced from 33.5% to 26%. Shoplifting crimes have reduced by 14.4% with 155 crimes recorded compared to 181 the previous year. The current figure remains above the previous 5-year average (122) however. The detection rate has reduced slightly from 70.7% to 61.3%. Fraud has risen marginally in Argyll and Bute compared to last year, from 145 to 149 recorded crimes. Increases in social engineering and identity frauds have been offset by reductions in bank account takeovers and frauds pertaining to bogus workmen. The detection rate for fraud has reduced slightly by 3.4% from 27.6% to 24.2%. Acquisitive crime remains a local priority in Argyll & Bute. The year-to-date figures remain impacted by the spate of cooking oil thefts mentioned in preceding reports, but there have been no further such offences since the previous report to this committee. Over the festive period we conducted dedicated high visibility patrols within our communities in support of local businesses and our officers carried out targeted stop searches on individuals known to be involved with acquisitive crime. One shoplifting during Q3 was notable in that clothing worth almost £3,000 was taken from a high- street store in Oban. A 41-year-old man was arrested and has been charged. There were also series of break-ins at commercial premises in Oban between September and November 2025, with a 29- year-old man identified and reported to the Procurator Fiscal connected with six offences. Frauds continue to be the main financial loss for our residents, which is a trend consistent with the national picture. In direct response to these being reported, our Partnerships & Preventions Team provide additional support and signposting to partner agencies for affected victims, particularly those who are most vulnerable. Recently there has been one report of counterfeit currency within Argyll & Bute which we are monitoring as a potential emerging trend, and communities are advised to remain vigilant. Page 15
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Public protection is often complex, and we work in partnership to increase public awareness and confidence. Many offences are non-recent. In November 2025, a former social care officer at a residential unit for looked after children in Oban was convicted of sexual offences against two girls between 1999 and 2001. Alexander Boyd was given a 10-year extended sentence following an investigation by Oban CID. There is a growing issue, reflected nationally, of children sharing indecent images online. They are also becoming vulnerable to sextortion, whereby offenders threaten to share the images to demand money or more content from victims. We are tackling this through awareness, early intervention and working with schools. Our Youth Engagement Officers play a key role in this work. Missing persons are a key area of focus for us and after a person is found, we always explore what measures can be taken to prevent the missing episode from recurring. We do this by understanding the reasons and then working with partners to signpost to appropriate support mechanisms. At the end of Qtr. 3, Group 2 crimes have increased by 30% with 228 crimes recorded compared to 175 (+53) in the same period last year. Sexual assaults have increased by 38% from 64 to 88 (+24), while rape offences have reduced slightly from 38 to 33. Crimes relating to indecent images/communications have also increased considerably from 52 to 93 crimes with approx. 65% involving children and 83% being committed via online platforms. Approximately 56% of sexual assaults occurred in a private setting and 82% were committed by persons known to the victim. Around 31% of sexual assaults reported related to non-recent crimes. Similarly, approx. 83% of rape offences occurred within a private space and 87% were committed by persons known to the victim with 15 crimes being domestic related. Domestic abuse incidents have seen an increase of 4.3% compared to last year from 512 to 534, while the number of crimes recorded has remained consistent with 525 compared to 523. The detection rate for domestic abuse crimes has increased from 55.3% to 65.1% year on year. A total of 135 missing person reports had been recorded within Argyll and Bute as at end of Qtr. 3, which is an increase of 33.7% from last year (+34). MP reports relating to adults have increased by 28% from the position last year from 57 to 73. Reports relating to children have also increased from 22 to 47 (+25) although the number of MP’s for young persons in care has reduced marginally (-4). PUBLIC PROTECTION Page 16
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL At the end of Qtr. 3, the number of fatal RTC’s recorded in Argyll and Bute has seen a slight reduction from 6 to 3 year on year. RTC’s resulting in both serious and slight injuries have also decreased from 42 to 26 (-16) and 65 to 50 (-15), respectively. Road traffic offences continue to see a considerable increase of 21.8% from 1512 to 1841 (+329). Speeding offences have experienced the highest increase (+135) followed by vehicle defect such as construction and lighting offences (+72) and unlawful use of motor vehicle such as licence, insurance and registration offences (+53). The increase in vehicle offences is largely a testament to proactive policing within Argyll and Bute during the current reporting period. Road Traffic Casualties 2024/25 2025/26 Number of persons killed on our roads 6 3 Number of persons seriously injured 42 26 Number of persons slightly injured 65 50 Number of children seriously injured 0 1 Police efforts to drive down the number of people killed and seriously injured on our road’s focus on enforcement of the law; prevention through education and early intervention; and proactive, visible deterrents. Meanwhile, our partner agencies are responsible for influencing driver behaviour through the design, layout and overall infrastructure of the county’s roads. Our traffic detections continue to increase, which is testament to the proactive work by our specialist officers and our local policing teams. We continue to target those drivers putting people’s safety at risk. Durning this reporting period we conducted our annual festive drink and drug driving campaign over Christmas and Hogmanay. Many hundreds of motorists were stopped during this initiative by both local and specialist officers throughout Argyll & Bute. Of those, 16 people were charged while driving while unfit through drink or drugs. It is of course reassuring that most road users are clearly behaving responsibly, but the results nevertheless highlight that a significant minority of individuals put the lives of others at risk through their own selfish decisions. Prevention and education are essential components of our strategy to reduce road traffic collisions. In Cowal and Bute we will be conducting a ‘lose the blinkers’ initiative with specialist mounted officers, road traffic officers and local policing to raise awareness of driving near to or passing horses on the road. Our Partnerships and Prevention Team, in conjunction with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Institute for Advance Motorists (IAM), have also reintroduced our highly successful Road Safety Hubs for 2026. These sessions provide drivers with the opportunities to learn and understand how an advanced driver views the road space around them. The most recent event in Oban in January 2026 attracted 20 participants. In relation to enforcement, police can be anywhere but not everywhere – and communities have a key role to play in keeping our roads safe. Members of the public are encouraged to report anyone who is suspected of drink or drug driving within their community either in person, via 101, or via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. It is important that police are called at the time of the offending so we can catch the behaviour taking place. This helps us provide key evidence to act and prosecute offending. ROAD SAFETY AND ROAD CRIME Page 17
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Across Argyll & West Dunbartonshire, 20 crimes linked to persons associated with serious and organised crime have been recorded and £109,226 has been seized under POCA since 1st April 2025. At the end of Qtr. 3, drugs supply charges show a slight reduction compared to last year from 28 to 23 crimes, which remains below the previous 5-year average (26). Drug possession charges however have seen a 10.5% increase from 313 to 346 and remains above the previous 5-year average (313). There are plans in place for 2026 to work more closely with Crimestoppers to increase awareness of anonymous reporting mechanisms in relation to drugs supply and Serious & Organised Crime in Argyll & Bute. You will see increased publicity about Crimestoppers as a direct result of this intensified campaign. It is vital that we continue to encourage and empower our communities to speak up about crime within their towns and villages because members of the public are our eyes and ears and have a crucial impact on police effectiveness. Our officers, whilst on high visibility patrols, conducted 189 proactive stop searches during this reporting period, the large majority of these being under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Around 28 per cent of those stop searches resulted in items being found and consequently 42 people were charged in relation to drugs offences. This work demonstrates that we are determined to deter those involved with serious and organised crime. Some examples of activity during this reporting period include – being successful in obtaining and executing a drugs warrant in Campbeltown in October which resulted in a significant quantity of cocaine and cash being seized. A 22-year-old man was arrested and a report submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. In November, a drugs warrant in Ardrishaig also resulted in the recovery of a large quantity of cocaine and cash being seized. A 49-year-old woman was arrested and a report submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. SERIOUS & ORGANISED CRIME Page 18
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL VIOLENCE While serious assaults are down, common assaults are up – with an almost 50:50 split between public and private place violence. The festive quarter often sees a rise in this type of criminality, largely associated with alcohol consumption, frequently occurring around our nighttime economy hotspots. We ensure patrols are in place around any premises causing particular concern and work closely with our licensing colleagues to ensure all venues are operating responsibly. During this reporting period we conducted almost 300 random inspections of licensed premises across Argyll & Bute. Many assaults are also connected to the key area of domestic abuse which continues to rise and which we attribute to greater confidence of victim-survivors to report. In explaining figures, it is important to note that heighted domestic assaults will not necessarily correlate with heighted victim numbers. Where a victim comes forward for the first time, reporting a history of different instances, these might necessitate being recorded separately, e.g. eight crimes coming from the one report, giving a false perception of increase in the figures. More infrequently, violence can be connected to other crime types such as drugs supply and organised crime. Our officers use analysis and intelligence to make full use of their stop search powers in targeted areas when it is justified and proportionate to do so as part of localised policing plans. Crimes of violence occurring within Argyll and Bute have increased slightly from 795 to 814 (+19) year on year while the current figure remains 22% above the previous 5-year average (667). Crimes were largely spilt 53% public and 47% private space with just over half (53%) of all public space crimes being committed by persons known to the victim. Much of the increase is attributed to a 9.3% rise in common assaults from 558 to 610 crimes (+52), while the majority of other Group 1 crimes of violence have experienced reductions or marginal change compared to the position at the end of Qtr. 3 last year. Approx. 53% of common assaults occurred within a public space setting and 47% within a residential premise. In 63% of public space crimes offenders were known to the victim and just over half of all private space crimes were domestic related. Common assaults on police and emergency workers have continued to see a reduction from 111 to 87 crimes year on year. The detection rate for crimes of violence overall is currently at 69%, which is unchanged from the position in 2024/25. In number terms an additional 13 crimes have been detected year on year however. The detection rate for common assaults has risen slightly from 63.6% to 66.2%. Page 19
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL Across the recording period the number of ASB related incidents in Argyll and Bute have seen a slight increase of approx. 1.9% compared to last year. Group 6 crimes, which include ASB related offences have also increased by 14.6% with 841 crimes recorded compared to 734 the previous year. This is largely attributable to a rise in breach the peace/threatening and abusive behaviour from 662 to 749 crimes (+87) and alcohol related offences (+25) year on year. ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR As is the case with crimes of violence, reports of anti-social behaviour tend to increase during Q3 as we see darker nights and emerging issues associated with annual events such as Bonfire Night, Halloween and the festive period. It is notable that this year (2025/26) Group 6 figures which include ASB and other miscellaneous offences are up by almost 15 per cent compared to the previous year – largely attributable to breach of the peace and threatening / abusive behaviour offences. While there is no pattern or trend identified, the figures would indicate robust enforcement by officers in response to such offending. We pride ourselves in our close partnerships and in preparation for bonfire weekend, our officers worked closely with colleagues from Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and A&B Council’s ASB and Housing and Trading Standards teams to promote safety and prevention. Our Youth Engagement Officers carried out joint inputs in local schools, and community teams visited premises selling fireworks to ensure they were complying with strict guidelines. We continue to target problematic householders who cause misery to neighbours and communities, to prevent escalation, which can lead to potentially sporadic acts of violence. We do this by working in partnership with housing providers and council colleagues to mediate, resolve and, if necessary, take enforcement action. Anti-social behaviour involving young people can cause concern for parents and the wider community. As part of our early intervention and prevention efforts, our Youth Engagement Officers continue to work with partners to address issues before they escalate – particularly as we head into the spring and summer months. Page 20
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OFFICIAL OFFICIAL PUBLIC CONFIDENCE: COMPLAINTS & USER SATISFACTION Overall satisfaction with Police Scotland User Satisfaction results show that locally, public confidence levels remain high within Argyll and West Dunbartonshire with overall satisfaction levels at 74.5%, which is above the position as at the end of Qtr. 3 during the 2024/25 reporting period (73%) and the position in the West (71%). Useful Links/Contacts Argyll and Bute Community Directory - https://abcd.scot/ including warm spaces information Crimestoppers – Crimestoppers in Scotland (www.crimestoppers-uk.org) 0800 555 111 Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime – www.scottishparc.co.uk Women’s Aid - Home - Women's Aid (www.womensaid.org.uk) Citizens Advice – 0808 164 6000 Argyll and Bute Council Trading Standards – 01546 605 519 Argyll and Bute Council – https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/my-council/how-contact-us Transport Scotland – road related incidents - https://www.traffic.gov.scot/traffic-information/incidents Scottish Water - https://www.scottishwater.co.uk/Help-and-Resources/Contact-Us Local News • The recruitment and retention of officers across Argyll & Bute remains a local priority for Area Commanders – particularly our most rural locations. Several new recruits are due to join us in the next few months and notably three PCs are due to start in Campbeltown – which is great news as it’s one of our challenging towns to recruit to. • PC Wells, Dunoon & Bute’s dedicated Youth Engagement Officer was instrumental in driving positive change in 2025—her outstanding contributions were recognised at a recent police awards ceremony. Her initiatives, including Social 22 youth club, boys’ and girls’ running clubs, and vital school inputs on drugs and knife crime, continue to make a lasting impact. • From the 23rd February 2026 the new Area Inspector for OLI and MAKI will be Inspector Alasdair MacLaren. PI Maclaren will work alongside the Area Commander, Chief Inspector Lee Page, to oversee community policing across the OLI and MAKI areas. 74.5% Satisfied/Very Satisfied Total of 432 responses Page 21
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Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Q3 Argyll & Bute Performance and Scrutiny Group Argyll and Bute Page 23 Agenda Item 5
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202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on About the statistics within this report The activity totals and other statistics quoted within this report are published in the interests of transparency and openness. They are provisional in nature and subject to change as a result of ongoing quality assurance and review. Because all statistics quoted are provisional there may be a difference in the period totals quoted in our reports after local publication which result from revisions or additions to the data in our systems. The Scottish Government publishes official statistics each year which allow for comparisons to be made over longer periods of time. Summary Trends Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADFs) Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties Non-Fire Casualties Deliberate Fires Non-Domestic Fires Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS) Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) Fire Safety Enforcement Community Safety & Engagement Glossary of Terms 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Contents Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Q3 Argyll & Bute Performance and Scrutiny Group Argyll and Bute Page 24
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2025-26 Q31. Summary 63 Fires 80 207 False Alarms 376 24 1 1 Fire Fatalities 15 2 70 UFAS In this report, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) shows a clear commitment to public safety through its response to a wide range of operational incidents, as outlined above. Domestic home fire safety remains a priority. Fire safety audits and community engagement initiatives continue to be proactive measures that help make your communities safer places to live, work and visit. The overall trend shows consistent management of incidents, with seasonal variations affecting activity levels. Accidental dwelling fires are monitored closely, and work to reduce deliberate fires and non fire incidents continues. The data presented shows a coordinated approach to fire prevention and emergency response. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Fire Incidents People Rescued by Firefighters People Receiving First Aid or Hospital Treatment (Non-Fire) People Receiving First Aid or Hospital Treatment (Fires) Non-Fire Fatalities Top 10 Incident Types False Alarm (Du… False Alarm (UFAS) Fire (Building) False Alarm (Good I… Inter-Agency Incomplete (Incompl… Fire (Outdoor) Flooding / Water Res… Vehicle (Non-fire) Humanitarian Other Non-Fire 102 70 42 34 33 26 17 16 10 7 7 Fire Safety AuditsHome Fire Safety Visits Total Incidents (Incl. Incompletes) 67103 Page 25
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2. Trends Previous 16 quarters (4 years) 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 22 2424 10 10 24 11 13 13 17 1616 12 18 17 20 Deliberate Fires 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 21 11 43 5 40 6 22 16 9 812 13 18 11 16 8 Non-Domestic Fires 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2 9 11 3 10 4 7 6 8 7 4 5 6 8 4 4 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 158 70 209 56 142 75 65 636677 150 185 69 6968 168 Road Traffic Collisions 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 15 9 26 2618 13 18 17 13 15 12 20 20 11 12 19 Page 26
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2. Trends 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Previous 16 quarters (4 years) Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2 2 3 0 0 0 2 2 0 11 0 2 1 1 0 Non-Fire Casualties 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 20 17 31 13 24 27 22 15 18 1514 27 23 17 1514 Road Traffic Collision Casualties 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 10 5 20 10 15 6 6 9 99 8 18 12 8 9 9 Home Fire Safety Visits 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 289 103 70 198 173 238 221 207 93 233 183 239 99 149 237 202 Fire Safety Audits 2021-22 Q4 2022-23 Q1 2022-23 Q2 2022-23 Q3 2022-23 Q4 2023-24 Q1 2023-24 Q2 2023-24 Q3 2023-24 Q4 2024-25 Q1 2024-25 Q2 2024-25 Q3 2024-25 Q4 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 29 67 151 54 142 100 79 110 130 138 135 71 111 108 103 83 Page 27
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SFRS is dedicated to reducing accidental dwelling fires in domestic properties across Scotland. This commitment is shown through proactive work, community engagement and continuous improvement strategies. SFRS uses a range of measures to prevent fires before they start. One key initiative is the Home Fire Safety Visit (HFSV) program, where Community Action Teams and Operational Crews visit homes to assess fire risks and give tailored advice on fire prevention in a domestic setting. These visits often include installing smoke alarms and heat detectors to meet Scottish Government legislation, helping ensure that homes are equipped to detect fires early. During this reporting quarter, we saw an increase in accidental dwelling fires, rising from 17 to 24 compared to the previous reporting quarter. We will continue to monitor these incidents and take action where required. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires in this period Extent of Damage Incidents Not applicable 9 Limited to item 1st ignited 7 Limited to room of origin 5 Affecting more than 2 floors (not whole building) 1 Roof space and other floors(s) 1 Whole building 1 Source of Ignition (Top 10) Cooking appliance Electricity supply Not known Heating equipment Matches and candles Other domestic style appliance 11 5 3 2 2 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 10 15 20 24 Incidents by Ward Isle of Bute Helensburgh Central Mid Argyll Oban North & Lorn Dunoon Helensburgh & Lomond South Oban South & the Isles Lomond North 6 5 3 3 2 2 2 1 2025-26 Q33. Accidental Dwelling Fires Page 28
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4. Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties Not known 1 Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes; asphyxiation 1 SFRS is committed to reducing accidental dwelling fire casualties across all communities in Scotland. This dedication is reflected in our comprehensive reduction strategies,community focused initiatives and ongoing efforts to improve fire safety. Through strategic initiatives, community engagement, a data driven approach and targeted support for vulnerable groups we strive to make every home in Scotland safer. These efforts not only save lives but also promote a strong culture of fire safety awareness and prevention within our communities. Over this reporting period, there was sadly one fatal accidental dwelling fire casualty recorded. We will continue to focus our efforts on prevention and community safety to reduce the risk of further incidents. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Casualties by Ward Isle of Bute Mid Argyll 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 1 2 3 People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 Q3 1 1 1 1 0 0 Page 29
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5. Non-Fire Casualties 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on During this reporting period, we responded to a range of non fire related incidents, including road traffic collisions (RTCs), water rescues and other specialist operations. These incidents highlight the diverse nature of our work and the vital role we play in supporting public safety beyond traditional fire related emergencies. Sadly, two of these incidents involved fatal casualties. Our crews were primarily mobilised to assist partner agencies, including Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service. These tragic events underscore the importance of our continued collaboration with partner agencies to provide the best possible response during challenging and often life critical situations. Casualties by Ward Dunoon Lomond North Oban South & the Isles South Kintyre Cowal Helensburgh & Lomond South Isle of Bute 4 4 4 2 1 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 10 20 30 Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties Back / Neck injury (spinal) 5 Chest / Abdominal injury 2 Not known 2 Other medical condition 2 Bruising 1 Chest pain / Heart condition / Cardiac arrest 1 Fracture 1 Head injury 1 Hypothermia 1 Other physical injury 1 2025-26 Q3 15 2 23 0 11 4 Page 30
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6. Deliberate Fires Property Type Incident Grassland, woodland and crops 4 Refuse 2 Non Residential 1 Other outdoors (including land) 1 Outdoor equipment and machinery 1 Outdoor structures 1 Road Vehicle 1 We are committed to reducing deliberate fire-setting due to the risks it poses to people, property, and the environment. These incidents divert resources from real emergencies. To achieve this, we use the following strategies: Community Engagement: Awareness sessions in Argyll and Bute schools, focused on children and young people providing safety focused engagements. Partnership Working: Working with Police Scotland, Community Wardens, and local schools. Reporting: Encouraging the public to report suspicious activity or rubbish build-up. Over this recording period we have seen a decline from 16 operational incidents to 11. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Incidents by Ward Cowal Dunoon Helensburgh & Lomond South Kintyre & the Islands Lomond North Oban South & the Isles 3 2 2 2 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 20 40 11 Deliberate Fires in this period 2025-26 Q3 Hour of Day 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Page 31
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7. Non-Domestic Fires We are dedicated to reducing non-domestic fires, recognising the significant impact these incidents can have on local businesses, public buildings, and the wider community. Non-domestic fires can lead to substantial economic losses, disrupt services, and pose serious risks to public safety. Our local Fire Safety Enforcement (FSE) team acts as the enforcing authority for fire safety legislation in non-domestic premises. This includes regular inspections and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. The enforcement team also provides support and education to duty holders, including building owners, managers, and staff, to help them comply with current legislation. Over this reporting period, non-domestic fire activity increased from 4 to 9 incidents. We will continue to closely monitor this trend and take any necessary action as required. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Domestic Fires in this period 2025-26 Q3 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Food and Drink 2 Offices and call centres 2 Boarding House/B&B other 1 Other buildings/use not known 1 Public Utilities 1 Religious 1 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 1 9 (100.0%) Accidental Deliberate Incidents by Ward Oban South & the Isles Isle of Bute Dunoon Helensburgh & Lomond South Helensburgh Central Oban North & Lorn 3 2 1 1 1 1 Extent of Damage Not applicable Limited to item 1st ignited Limited to room of origin Whole building 4 2 2 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 5 10 9 Page 32
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8. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals SFRS introduced a revised policy aimed at reducing Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS). This forms part of our wider commitment to improving community safety and making effective use of resources across Scotland. UFAS are false alarms triggered by automatic fire alarm systems. These can result from accidental activation of manual call points, cooking fumes, dust or poor maintenance. Each UFAS incident diverts fire crews from genuine emergencies, creating unnecessary demand on resources and the potential for delays in responding to real fires. Since the introduction of this revised policy, we have continued to see a reduction in UFAS incidents. This positive trend is reflected in the data presented in this report. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals in this period 2025-26 Q3 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Hotel/motel 24 Residential Home 16 Hospitals and medical care 9 Other Residential Home 5 Retail 4 Education 3 Other holiday residence (cottage, flat, chalet) 3 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 2 Boarding House/B&B other 1 Nurses'/Doctors' accommodation 1 Offices and call centres 1 Sporting venues 1 Incidents by Ward Oban South & the Isles Helensburgh Central Lomond North Cowal Dunoon Mid Argyll Oban North & Lorn South Kintyre Isle of Bute Kintyre & the Islands 22 10 9 8 5 5 4 3 2 2 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 100 200 70 Page 33
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9. Road Traffic Collisions We are committed to reducing the number of Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) across Scotland’s road network. We recognise the devastating impact these incidents can have on individuals, families and local communities. We have implemented a range of strategies and initiatives focused on prevention and effective response. We work closely with Police Scotland and attend the L Division Road Safety Governance Group on a quarterly basis. These meetings bring together key partners to identify new and existing risks and coordinate joint road safety strategies across Argyll and Bute. In partnership with Police Scotland, we continue to hold a series of road safety hub events at our community fire stations in Campbeltown, Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead Joint Campus. Further details can be found on page 13 of this report. During this reporting period, total incident numbers have reduced from 11 to 9. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Road Traffic Collisions in this period Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 Q3 Incidents by Ward Oban South & the Isles Lomond North Dunoon Helensburgh & Lomond South Isle of Bute Kintyre & the Islands 3 2 1 1 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 10 20 30 9 5 0 6 0 5 0 Property Type Incidents Car 8 Van 1 Incident Type Incidents Vehicle (Non-fire) 9 Page 34
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10. Home Fire Safety Visits 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 11. Fire Safety Enforcement Job Type Count Audit 67 Short Post Fire Audit 2 Specific Visit 1 The SFRS has implemented a new referral pathway for Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) to enhance community safety and provide better support to vulnerable individuals. The revised HFSV programme takes a targeted approach, focusing on high risk individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria linked to known fire risk factors. We continue to audit non domestic properties to check compliance with fire safety legislation and identify any risks. These audits help duty holders maintain suitable measures to prevent fires and protect people within their premises. Audits by Ward Oban South & the Isles Oban North & Lorn Kintyre & the Islands Dunoon South Kintyre 34 25 4 2 2 2025-26 Q3 HFSVs by Ward Helensburgh Central Oban North & Lorn Oban South & the Isles Dunoon Cowal Lomond North Helensburgh & Lomond South Mid Argyll South Kintyre Isle of Bute Kintyre & the Islands 19 16 16 15 9 8 7 6 4 3 0 Home Fire Safety Visits 103 Page 35
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12. Community Safety & Engagement Community Safety Campaigns/ Safety Messaging Bonfire/Firework safety In the lead up to 5 November, our Community Action Team and operational crews delivered bonfire/firework safety presentations in all Argyll and Bute secondary schools. The sessions covered the risks linked to bonfires and fireworks and highlighted how young people can stay safe during this busy period. Pupils engaged well and asked useful questions, and staff welcomed the support in reinforcing key safety messages ahead of Bonfire Night. Thank you to everyone involved for helping promote safer choices in our communities. Road Safety Hub Events Update As we approached the darker nights, these sessions offered safety advice on driving at night. In partnership with Police Scotland and IAM RoadSmart, SFRS hosted Road Safety Hub night driving safety events on 22 and 25 November at fire stations in Campbeltown, Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead High Joint Campus. These free events aimed to raise awareness of road safety and provided practical advice to reduce the risk of collisions. We thank everyone who attended and supported these sessions. Christmas Gift Appeal The SFRS Christmas Gift Appeal, delivered in partnership with Home Start, was a success this year. Thanks to the generosity of the public, a large number of toys and gifts were collected, ensuring that local children and families received much needed support over the festive period. Home Fire Safety Visit We launched a new referral process for Home Fire Safety Visits, designed to better identify and support individuals at higher risk. This update introduces a streamlined digital referral system and improves collaboration through a new data sharing framework. The final phase for partner access will be available soon, with further u pdates to follow. To support the roll out, SFRS will be providing ongoing training and guidance to partner organisations, ensuring they can use the new system effectively. These improvements reflect our continued commitment to enhancing fire safety and reducing fire related incidents across Scotland. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 2025-26 Q3 Page 36
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13. Glossary of Terms Term - What it means ADF Accidental Dwelling Fire. HFSV Home Fire Safety Visit. PDIR Post Domestic Incident Response, a term used to indicate actions taken following attendance at a fire or other incident in the home. PDIRs include amongst things the offer of a free follow up home fire safety visit. RTC Road Traffic Collision. Special Service Calls to incidents which are not fires or false alarms such as RTCs, rescues, flooding, incidents involving hazardous materials or the provision of assistance to other agencies. UFAS Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals. When an automatic fire detection and alarm system is activated as a result of anything other than an actual fire the activation is classed as a false alarm. If an attendance is made to such an event by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, then the event is recorded as an UFAS incident. UFAS Policy Change In response to COVID, on the 6th May 2020, the SFRS decided to send 1 pump to UFAS premises that did not have their own Predetermined attendance (PDA). As of 1st July 2023, the COVID interim 1 pump response was ended and a new UFAS policy was implemented. The new policy is to call challenge all UFAS incidents with the intention of non-attendance. Hospitals, care homes, and sleeping risk premises are all exempt and receive either 2 pumps or their premise specific PDA. 202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Page 37
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Design, figures and charts by the Business Intelligence team. Page 38
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1 Community Services Committee Date of Meeting: 5th March 2026 Title of Report: Health & Social Care Partnership - Performance Report – FQ2 2025/26 (July - September) Presented by: Kristin Gillies Head of Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology The committee is asked to: • Acknowledge performance for FQ2 2025/26 (Jul - September) • Note the Performance KPI's will be reviewed for Q3 with improved alignment to the Operational Improvement Plan indicators and National measures and the format of the A&B performance reports with Head of Service collaboration will be reviewed • Note Delayed Discharge Sitrep as of 15 December 2025 (Appendix 1) • Acknowledge performance update on the National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes and Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators (Appendix 2) • Note supporting Service Feedback commentary from Heads of Service and Service Leads (Appendix 3) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report details performance for the Financial Quarter (FQ) 2 2025/26 (July - September), the performance outputs are taken from the Integrated Performance Management Framework (IPMF) Reporting Dashboard with the focus on twelve key service areas. Overall performance for FQ2 notes of 77 measures reported 35 (45%) are on track and 42 (55%) off- track. The report details performance against each of the service areas and supporting IPMF Key Performance Indicators. Latest National Delayed Discharge Sitrep and the National Health & Wellbeing Indicators performance is also noted. The use of the new performance Dashboard within SharePoint is designed to offer a more focused approach to the access and analysis of data, offering scope for self-service. 2. RECOMENDATIONS The committee are asked to note and consider FQ2 25/26 performance. 3. DETAIL OF REPORT The report details the HSCP (Health and Social Care Partnership) performance for FQ 2 2025/26 (July - September), highlighting key performance trends across the 77 KPIs (Key Page 39 Agenda Item 6
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2 Performance Indicators). For 2025/26, the latest national benchmarking update on Delayed Discharges (Appendix 1), alongside the latest performance on the National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes Indicators (Appendix 2). Supporting Service Feedback commentary from Heads of Service and Service Leads is provided at (Appendix 3). 4. RELEVANT DATA & INDICATORS 4.1 FQ2 2025/26 (July – September) Performance Summary Overall performance for FQ2 notes that 77 KPI’s are scoring against target, with 35 (45%) reporting on track. This is down 10% on FQ1 position, where 42 (55%) KPIs were reported as on track. The KPI’s report performance against the target and include the target, actual and variance and is a mix of both quantitative and qualitative indicators. The use of the green, amber and red graphics within the Dashboard is used to give an overview of the HSCP’s total performance for each of the twelve services and 77 KPI’s. The use of only green and red for the KPI’s is used to focus delivery with regards to sustaining performance on or above target. 4.2 Analysis of Key Performance This analysis identifies performance across the 12 service reporting categories within the Integrated Performance Management Framework (IPMF). 4.2.1 Children & Families FQ2 performance across 5 KPI’s, for Children & Families and Justice notes 1 KPI (20%) on track, and 4 KPIs (80%) off track. This is down 60% from the 4 (80%) KPIs noted as on track for FQ1. Performance on or above target: • Improve the number of statutory Health Assessments commenced within 4 weeks of coming into care: For the past two quarters this KPI has been reported at 100%, above the target of 96%. Page 40
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3 Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Improve the percentage of Child Protection Register (CPR) cases that have an allocated social worker (at end of quarter): For Q2 this KPI was 3% below the target (100%), and performance was down from Q1 which met the target. • Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAHMS) will see 90% of children and young people within 18 weeks of referral: For Q2 79% of referrals were seen within 18 weeks, missing the Q2 target (90%). This is a decline in performance from Q1 which did meet the target. • Improve the number of teams that have delivered 85% or more of the Universal Health Visiting Pathway (UHVP): For Q2, the KPI target (85%) was missed by 2% (83% met the target). This is down on Q1 where the target of 85% was met. • Percentage of CJ social work reports submitted by 12 noon, 2 days before court: Q2 failed to meet the target of 90% (achieving 83%). This was an improvement on Q1, of which only 80% met the KPI target. 4.2.2 Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology FQ2 performance across 11 KPIs for Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology Services shows 5 KPIs (45%) on track, with 6 KPIs (55%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is a reduction of 10% compared to the 6 (55%) KPIs noted as on track for FQ1. Performance on or above target: • New Telecare clients: Q2 performance was 215 new clients receiving Telecare services against a target of 200, meeting the target. This declined from 242 new clients in Q1. • Telecare service reviews completed: Q2 performance was 125 reviews against a target of 85, meeting the target. This declined from 167 reviews in Q1. • Patients utilising ‘Near Me’ clinics: Q2 performance was 972 patients against a target of 800, meeting the target. This declined from 1,126 patients in Q1. • Patients using ‘Connect Me’ for blood pressure monitoring: Q2 performance was 124 patients against a target of 42, meeting the target. This represents a small improvement from 120 patients in Q1. • Transformation & Improvement projects on track: Q2 performance was 9 of 10 projects on track (90%) against a target of 85%, meeting the target. This declined from 18 of 18 projects on track (100%) in Q1. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • New referrals to Silvercloud: This indicator measures the number of new referrals to the Silvercloud mental health support platform. Q2 performance was 52 new referrals (74%) against a target of 70, below target. This is a 63% increase from 32 referrals in Q1 (46%), though performance in both quarters remained off target. • Waiting times for cancer appointments at 31 day target: Q2 performance was 5 patients exceeding waiting time targets against a target of 0, below target. This decreased from 7 patients in Q1. • New OP waiting time breaches >12 weeks: Q2 performance was 48% of patients in breach against a target of 46%, below target. This is a decline from 46% in Q1. • OPWL long waits >52 weeks: Q2 performance was 7.1% of patients waiting more than 52 weeks against a target of 0%, below target. This is slightly declined from 7.0% in Q1. Page 41
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4 • Freedom of Information requests responded to within statutory timescale: Q2 performance was 28 of 30 requests, achieving 93% against a target of 100%, below target. This is a slight decline from Q1, which recorded 29 of 31 requests (94%). • IT support request resolution: This indicator measures the number of IT support requests logged and resolved strictly within Q2. During Q2, 835 IT requests were logged and 816 were resolved within the quarter, achieving 98% against a target of 100%. This represents an improvement from Q1, when 1,013 requests were logged and 844 were resolved (83%) 4.2.3 Primary Care Performance across 6 KPIs for Primary Care shows 3 (50%) on track, with 3 (50%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This matches FQ1 performance also reported as 3 (50%) KPIs on track. Performance on or above target: • Fluoride varnish: This indicator measures the proportion of children who received a fluoride varnish application and did not require referral for further dental treatment. Q2 performance was 80% against a target of 80%, meeting the target and decreasing from the Q1 result of 84%. • 6-in-1 vaccination uptake: This indicator measures the percentage of children who received the 6-in-1 vaccination by age one. Q2 performance was 98% against a 95% target, exceeding target and increasing from the Q1 figure of 94%. • Contingency measures in HSCP-run GP practices: This indicator records the number of HSCP-managed GP practices that enacted contingency measures during the reporting period. Q2 performance remained at 0 against a threshold of 14, unchanged from Q1. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Oral Health Improvement Programme activity: This indicator measures the percentage of planned National Oral Health Improvement Programme activity delivered against the service plan. Q2 performance was 73% against a target of 100%, which is below target and lower than the Q1 position of 85%. • Vaccination delivery: This indicator measures the percentage of the eligible population receiving seasonal COVID-19 vaccination, benchmarked against national uptake trends. Q1 figures reflected the end of the Spring 2025 programme, while Q2 relates to the start of the next seasonal programme. Q2 performance was 2.4% against a target of 6%. • Utilisation of HSCP dental clinic appointments: This indicator measures the proportion of available appointments used within HSCP dental clinics. No Q2 data was provided, so the Q1 figure of 58% has been repeated. The target remains 75%. 4.2.4 Public Health Performance across 6 KPIs for Public Health shows 4 (67%) on track, with 2 (33%) reported as offtrack against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is an increase of 34% from FQ1, where 2 (33%) KPIs were noted as on track. Performance on or above target: • Increase the number of successful quits – Reporting is undertaken a quarter in arrears. For Q1, which is being reported in Q2, we exceeded our target. The actual performance was Page 42
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5 16, compared to a revised target of 10, reflecting a positive increase of 78% compared to Q4, which was reported in Q1. • Increase the number of people in A&B attending training to deliver training in Money Counts, Behaviour Change, Speakeasy, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Q2, performance noted 126 against a rolling target of 43, performing above target of 17 additional clients per quarter. • Mitigate health inequalities through increasing the number of referrals to Community Link workers through We Are With you – Performance has remained consistently above the target in both Q1 and Q2. Q2 recorded an actual of 219 against target of 110, representing a 26% increase on Q1, where the actual was 174. • Report on the number of engagements relating to planning with people with lived or lived experience of alcohol and/or drugs – In Q2, our actual of 6 placed us well above the target of 4, representing a 200% increase over Q1, where we achieved 2 and were below target. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Increase the number of people in A&B attending training to deliver CRAFT to families. There are currently no recorded attendances for this KPI at present. The target was set at 15 per year. • Number of instances working with Scottish Government or national agencies on national strategy and policy development. In Q2, our actual was 6 against a target of 11, reflecting a 25% decrease from 8 achieved in Q1. Performance in both quarters remained below target. 4.2.5 Finance Across the 7 KPIs, Financial services performance notes 3 (43%) on track, with 4 (57%) off track against the targets set for Q2 25/26. This is an increase of 14% from the 2 (29%) KPIs recored as on track for FQ1. Performance on or above target: • Monitor Older People Homecare Budget Spend: There has been an improvement in spend on this budget, 13% overspend noted in FQ1, this has reduced to the target of 0% overspend for Q2. • Monitor NHS saving recovery to ensure this remains on track: For Q2 the target saving remains on track with actual savings running at 50% against target, following on from Q1. • Monitor Social Work savings recovery to ensure this remains on track: For Q2, the actual saving remains 49% of the annual savings target, matching Q1, with trend data suggesting, as the financial year progresses, this KPI may meet its savings target. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Monitor Older People Internal Residential Budget Spend: Following on from Q1 the budget spend remains above target and the overspend has increased with an overspend of 23% for Q2. • Monitor Older People External Residential Budget Spend: There has been a drop of 2% in overspend from Q1 to Q2, however there remains an overspend of 5% against this budget. • Monitor Lorn & Islands Hospital Overall Budget: For Q2 the budget is running at 7% overspend, a slight reduction (0.9%) from Q1 which had a 7.9% overspend. • Monitor the HSCP total budget to ensure this remains on track currently off track for the Page 43
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6 quarter by £2m: As with Q1, Q2 remains slightly above the target. 4.2.6 Carers Performance across 5 KPIs for Carers shows 3 KPIs (60%) on track, with 2 KPI (40%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is a reduction of 20% from the 4 (80%) reported as on track in FQ1. Performance on or above target: • Increase the number of Unpaid Adult Carers supported across A&B Carers Centres – Performance exceeded the target of 2600 (2731) and remained stable compared to the previous quarter. • Increase the number of Unpaid Young Carers supported across A&B Carers Centres – For FQ2 performance exceeded the target of 783 (850). There has been a slight increase (5%) over the past quarter. • Increase the number of ACSP reviews completed by the various Carers Centres – FQ2 performance exceeded the target of 1800 (2307). These have increased by 25% since FQ1, mainly driven by increased activity in one of the Carers Centres. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Increase the number of Adult Carer Support Plans completed across A&B Carers Centres – below the target of 120 (103). This is a decrease of 19% since FQ1. • Increase the number of Young Carer Statements completed across A&B Carers Centres – below the target of 39 (23). This reflects a decrease of 21% this quarter, from 29 to 23. 4.2.7 Allied Health Professionals Performance across 5 KPIs for Allied Health Professionals shows no KPIs (0%) on track, with all 5 KPIs (100%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is a reduction of 20% from the 1 (20%) noted as on track in FQ1. (It should be acknowledged that nationally waiting time breaches are measured against a zero target and it is a clear indicator of how many actual people are waiting. Local trajectory reporting allows monitoring of progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients on waiting lists across varied health specialties.) Performance on or above target: None. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce New Outpatient Referral waits breaching > 4 weeks for Musculoskeletal (MSK) – above the target of 0 (1212). These have increased significantly, rising by 49% this quarter. • Reduce New Outpatient Referral waits breaching >12 week waits for AHP services – above the target of 0 (485). This has remained largely stable, with only a 2% increase from the previous quarter. • Reduce P1 and P2 Community Patient Referral waits breaching > 4 weeks for AHP Services – above the target of 0 (96). There has been a notable increase of 60% this quarter, although numbers remain relatively small. Page 44
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7 • Reduce P3 and P4 Community Patient Referral waits breaching >12 week waits for AHP services – above the target of 0 (1067). There has been a slight increase of 10% this quarter. • Increase the number of monthly AHP Outpatient Completed Waits – below the target of 945 (768). There has been a significant drop in completed waits, decreasing by 24% this quarter. 4.2.8 Delayed Discharges Performance across 6 KPIs for Delayed Discharges shows 2 KPI (33%) on track, with 4 KPIs (67%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is a reduction of 17% from the 3 (50%) KPIs noted as on track in FQ1. (It should be acknowledged nationally Delayed Discharges are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients showing as a Delayed Discharge.) Performance on or above target: • Reduce the number of people delayed in hospital awaiting a care home placement at monthly census - Actual Q2 performance was 5 against a reducing target of 10, improving on our Q1 actual of 8. This represents a 38% reduction compared with Q1. • Reduce the number of people delayed with assessment code at monthly census point – Q2, performance data noted 5 against a reducing target of 10, improving on our Q1 actual of 7. This represents a 29% reduction compared with Q1. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce the number of people delayed at monthly census - In Q2, the actual was 47 against a target of 34. This represents being approximately 38% above target in Q2. Performance has decreased, reflecting pressures experienced during this period. • Reduce the overall length of stay in hospital at monthly census point – In Q2, performance data noted 908 against a target of 634, and 43% above target. • Reduce the number of people delayed in hospital with AWI code at monthly census point – In Q2, actual was 7 against a target of 4, and 75% above target. This is further increase compared to Q1. • Reduce the number of people delayed in hospital at monthly census point - In Q2, our actual was 30 against a target of 10, 200% above target. In Q1, the actual was 15, 50% above target, showing a 100% increase in actual from Q1 to Q2. 4.2.9 Adult Social Care Performance across 4 KPIs for Adult Social Care shows 3 KPIs (75%) on track, with 1 KPI (25%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is consistent with the FQ1 position where 3 (75%) KPIs were also noted as on track. Performance on or above target: • Increase the percentage of Older People who had their homecare monitoring review completed within 6 months - In Q2, data noted 60%, which matches the target of 60%. Whilst performance has continued to meet target in Q2, this is an 8% reduction from Q1(68%). Page 45
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8 • Increase the occupancy rates across A&B Care Homes – Performance for Q2, achieved 96%, exceeding the target of 95%. This represents a 1% improvement from Q1 (95%). • Reduce the number of hours of unmet need for care at home – This KPI aims to reduce the number of hours, with a target set of 500 hours. In Q2, performance remained on target recording 349 hours. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce unplanned admissions to A&B hospitals directly from a care home – This KPI has a target of 18. In Q2, performance noted 21, compared to 24 in Q1. This represents a 13% reduction from Q1, and continues to be off target by approximately 17% 4.2.10 Community Hospitals Performance across 5 KPIs for Community Hospitals shows 3 KPIs (60%) on track and 2 KPI’s off track (40%) in FQ2 2025/26. This is a decrease of 40% from the 5 (100%) KPIs reported as on track in FQ1. Performance on or above target: • Reduce the rate of unplanned admissions to Community Hospitals for 65+ population – Performance for Q2 remains on target, recording an actual of 416 against a target of 450. In Q1, actual was 449. This demonstrates a further 7% reduction in unplanned admissions between Q1 and Q2. • Maintain A&B Community Hospitals Bed occupancy rates below 80% target – Q2, remains on target, recording a rate of 70.1% against a target of 80%. In Q1, the rate was 61.8%. This reflects an increase of 8% in occupancy rates from Q1 whilst still remaining within target. • Reduce the number of falls being reported in a Community Hospital setting in A&B – Continues to be on target, achieving an actual of 16 against a target of 38. Q1 noted an actual of 12. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce the average length of stay for inpatients in A&B Community Hospitals – In Q2, the actual was 8.1, against a target of 7.5. This represents a 17% increase from Q1. • A&E attendances meeting the 4 hrs wait target - The national target for attendances meeting the 4 hours target is 95%, FQ2 performance was 94.6%, slightly below the target. This represents a 1% increase from Q1 against target (96%). 4.2.11 Adults with Long Term Conditions / Adult Support & Protection / Alcohol Drugs Partnership Performance across 8 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Adults with Long Term Conditions Services shows 2 KPIs (25%) on track, with 6 KPIs (75%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This is a reduction of 13% from the FQ1 position where 3 (38%) were noted as on track. (It should be acknowledged that nationally waiting time breaches for New Mental Health Outpatients (12 weeks) and Psychological Therapy (18 Weeks) are measured against a zero target. Local targets have been set to monitor progress and improvements to reduce the number of patients on waiting lists across varied health specialties) Page 46
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9 Performance on or above target: • Monthly waiting for psychological therapy services (>18 weeks): During Q2, 27 people were waiting, compared with a target of 175, meeting the target. This continues the improving trend from previous quarters, following 34 people waiting in Q1. • MH Urgent Care Referrals Response Timescales (<2 hours): During Q2, 99.6% of urgent care referrals were responded to within 2 hours, exceeding the target of 90%. This is broadly unchanged from Q1, when 100% of 260 referrals were responded to within 2 hours. The total number of referrals in Q2 (274) was similar to Q1 (260), showing consistent performance across both quarters. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce the number of clients on Dynamic Support Register with category Amber/Red: During Q2, 16 clients were on the register, compared with the target of 10. This is a decrease from 18 clients in Q1, but performance remains below the target. • Reduce the number of people waiting for a new Mental Health Outpatient service (>12 weeks): During Q2, 827 people were waiting, compared with the target of 390. This is an increase from 757 people in Q1 and continues to fall short of the target. • MH Social Circumstances Report Overdue: During Q2, 64% of reports were overdue (7 of 11 reports), exceeding the target of 33% and therefore off target. This is a deterioration from Q1, when 40% of reports were overdue (2 of 5 reports). • ASP Screening Duty to Inquire Assessments completed within 5 working days: During Q2, 188 assessments were completed, of which 85 (45%) were completed within 5 working days, below the target of 70%. This is an improvement in total assessments compared with Q1, when 134 assessments were completed, of which 54 (40%) were completed on time. • ASP Investigations completed within 15 working days of Screening Duty to Inquire completion date: During Q2, 32% of investigations were completed within 15 working days, below the target of 70%. This represents a decline from 42% in Q1. • Drug & Alcohol Completed Waiting Times from Referral to First Treatment (LDP): During Q2, 83.0% of patients were treated within target waiting times, below the target of 90%. This is broadly unchanged from 83.3% in Q1. 4.2.12 Rural General Hospitals (Lorn & Island Hospital) Performance across 9 KPIs for Rural General Hospitals (LIH) shows 6 KPIs (67%) on track, with 3 KPIs (33%) reported as off track against the targets set for FQ2 25/26. This reflects no change from the 6 (67%) reported as on track at FQ1 Performance on or above target: • Reduce the total number of unplanned bed days in LIH – Performance in Q2 remained below target with an actual of 2876, against a reducing target of 3323. In Q1 the actual was 2819 noting a 2% increase in Q2. • Reduce the Average Length of Stay for inpatients in LIH – In Q2, the actual was 3.6 against reducing target of 5.0 • Maintain LIH Bed Occupancy Rates below 90% target – Q2 actual was 76.4% against a target of 90%. In Q1 the actual was 74.6%. Page 47
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10 • Reduce the number of LIH A&E Attendances that result in an unplanned admission. Actual was 88.2% in Q2 and 93% in Q1 against a target of 95%. Remaining below the target with an overall 4.8% reduction from Q1. • Reduce the number of falls being reported in a hospital setting in LIH. With a reducing target set at 26, actual was 10 in Q2 and 17 in Q1. This represents strong progress and a 41% improvement from Q1. • Reduce number of instances of tissue viability in Lorn & Islands Hospital. Against a reducing target of 4, actual for FQ2 was 2. Performance below target & areas for improvement: • Reduce the rate of unplanned admissions to LIH 65+ population. Q2 actual was 359 against a target of 345, moving off target from Q1, when the actual was 314. This represents a 14% increase in unplanned admissions from Q1. • National target of 95% of A&E attendances to meet the 4-hour wait target. The target was set at 95%. Q2 data noted 88.2% performance. • Reduce the number of medication errors in LIH. In Q2, performance has remained off target with an actual of 13 against a reducing target of 6, this is against a 13% improvement from Q1. 4.2.13 National Health & Wellbeing Outcome Indicators & Ministerial Steering Group Integration Indicators The National Health and Wellbeing Outcomes provide a strategic framework for the planning and delivery of health and social care services. This suite of outcomes serves to focus on improving the experiences and quality of services for people using those services, carers, and their families. These indicators form the basis of the annual reporting requirement for Health and Social Care Partnerships across Scotland. The national indicators will be updated and reported within A&B HSCP’s Integrated Performance Management Framework to provide the national performance position alongside the local service Key Performance Indicators suite. The latest data in relation to 26 HWBOI and MSG Indicators reports 50% on track, with 13 on track and 13 off track. An overview of A&B HSCP’s latest performance against the 26 measures is reported in Appendix 1. It should be noted that reporting periods vary across the suite of national indicator measures, with some measures reported quarterly affected by national reporting data lag. 5. CONTRIBUTION TO STRATEGIC PRIORITIES The monitoring and reporting against Key Performance Indicators using the Integrated Performance Management Framework and Dashboard ensures the HSCP is able to deliver against key strategic priorities. This in-turn is aligned with the Strategic Plan and key objectives. 6. GOVERNANCE IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Financial Impact Financial performance is evidenced within the IPMF Dashboard ensuring best value as well as evidencing the impact and performance against organisational budget savings. 6.2 Staff Governance Page 48
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11 Key performance indicators within the IPMF ensure that staff governance requirements continue to be progressed and developed include health and safety, wellbeing and new service redesign and working practices. 6.3 Care and Clinical Governance Clinical Governance and patient safety remain at the core of prioritised service delivery against the new IPMF Dashboard and National Health & Wellbeing Outcomes Indicators. The new governance structure supporting the IPMF ensures that the Clinical & Care Governance Committee remain central to performance improvement. The development of the IPMF is focussed on moving away from previous traditional styles of reporting to a fully collaborative approach with Head of Service and Service Lead commentary. 7. PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY Data used within the performance dashboard is fully accessible in SharePoint with data trends and forecasting are identified to give wider strategic context. This provides the HSCP professional advisors with self –service performance information to inform their role in maintaining professional standards and outcomes. 8. EQUALITY & DIVERSITY IMPLICATIONS The Integrated Performance Management Framework captures relevant indictors used to inform the HSCP E&D work. 8.1 PROTECTED CHARACTERISTICS Performance detailed within this report acknowledges the rights of the Child (UNCRC), Islands. Fairer Scotland, Socio-economic Duty, Equalities - protected characteristics. 9. GENERAL DATA PROTECTION PRINCIPLES COMPLIANCE Data use and sharing within this report and IPMF performance dashboard is covered within the Argyll and Bute Council & NHS Highland Data Sharing Agreement 10. RISK ASSESSMENT Risks and mitigations associated with performance data sources and reporting are managed and identified within the monthly Performance & Improvement Team- Work Plan. 10.1 STRATEGIC, OPERATIONAL OR CLIMATE RISK Performance reports are used by operational management to identify service delivery risk and to inform mitigation action accordingly. 11. PUBLIC & USER INVOLVEMENT & ENGAGEMENT Performance reporting is available for the public via Argyll and Bute Council and NHS Highland websites. The IPMF dashboard utilises SharePoint to support manager and staff access across the HSCP. 12. CONCLUSION The Committee is asked to considerer and acknowledge FQ2 2025/26 (July - September) performance as detailed in the IPMF Dashboard. Page 49
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12 Note the Performance KPI's will be reviewed for Q3 with improved alignment to the Operational Improvement Plan indicators and National measures and the format of the A&B performance reports with Head of Service collaboration will be reviewed. 13. DIRECTIONS Directions required to Council, NHS Board or both. Directions to: tick No Directions required x Argyll & Bute Council NHS Highland Health Board Argyll & Bute Council and NHS Highland Health Board 14. PREVIOUS REVIEW OF THE REPORT Meeting Title of report Date Output (if relevant) REPORT AUTHOR AND CONTACT Author Name: Douglas Hunter- Senior Manager Performance & Improvement Email: douglas.hunter@argyll-bute.gov.uk Page 50
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13 Appendix 1 - Delayed Discharge Sitrep – 15th December 2025 Page 51
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14 Appendix 2 – HWBOI & MSG Integration Indicators. Core Suite of Integration Indicators HWBOI-Outcomes Data notes 55.5% (5 of 9) HWBOI Outcomes measures reporting as above the national Scotland Rate. It is worth noting that performance will be influenced and vary in line with the total number of respondents participating in this voluntary survey. As such, caution should be noted with regards to previous comparison and trends. Benchmarking performance against 7 comparator HSCPs is noted below. HWBOI – Outcomes - Benchmarking HWBOI- Performance Data Page 52
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15 Data notes 66.7% (6 of 9) HWBOI Performance measures reporting as above the national Scotland Rate. Note Indicators 17 and 19 are reported at FY 24/25 with measures 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 reported as at Calendar year 2024 as a proxy for 2024/25 due to the national data for 2024/25 being incomplete. This is in line with guidance issued by Public Health Scotland which was communicated to all Health and Social Care Partnerships. Using more complete calendar year data for 2024 should improve the consistency of reporting between Health and Social Care Partnerships. HWBOI- Performance Data – Benchmarking Page 53
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16 Ministerial Steering Group Indicators MSG Indicators 1.1, 1.2 and 2.1 are reported at Calendar Year 2024 as a proxy form 2024/25. This is in line with guidance issues by Public Health Scotland which was communicated to all Health and Social Care Partnerships/ MSG Indicators data notes that all MSG measures have sustained higher activity or have increased in the last reporting year. Activity around Emergency Admissions, Unplanned Bed Days, A&E attendances and Delayed Discharge Bed Days all noted performance exceeding pre –Covid levels. This highlights the necessity to consider approaches to alleviate systems pressures around Urgent and Unscheduled Care and expedite hospital flow, particularly around A&E Admissions and Delayed Discharges. Ministerial Steering Group Indicators 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 MSG 1.1 - Number of emergency admissions* CY 8,374 8,231 6,917 7,820 7,928 8,933 8,879 MSG 1.2 - Number of Admissions from A&E* CY 5,244 4,945 3,668 5,040 4,957 5,097 5,502 MSG 2.1 - Number of unplanned bed days acute specialties* CY 65,794 64,008 53,390 67,255 77,094 77,882 80.655 MSG 2.2 - Number of unplanned bed days MH specialties 13,747 13,204 11,208 9,049 9,212 11,575 11.380 MSG 3.1 - Number of A&E attendances 13,985 14,171 10,091 15,646 16,774 17,740 22,456 MSG 3.2 - % A&E attendances seen within 4 hours 93.4% 91.7% 93.1% 88.9% 83.9% 83.0% 83.0% MSG 4.1 - Number of DD bed days occupied 9,530 7,863 5,354 7,742 11,929 12,757 14,042 MSG 5.1 - % of last six months of life by setting community & hospital 90.0% 89.6 90.80% 90.80% 89.60% 89.40% N/A MSG 6.1 - % of 65+ population at Home (unsupported) 92.1% 92.1% 92.5% 92.6% 93.2% 93.4% N/A Data notes 67% (6 of 9) HWBOI Outcomes measures reporting as above the national Scotland Rate. It is worth noting that performance will be influenced and vary in line with the total number of respondents participating in this voluntary survey. As such, caution should be noted with regards to previous comparison and trends Page 54
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17 Appendix 3 – Service Feedback and Risk commentary IPMF Section 1 – Children & Families & Justice Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • There has been staffing issues within Justice services. It is noted that appointments have been made and steady progress is expected towards the 90% target indicated in KPI 5. • All KPIs are vulnerable due to staffing vacancies and absence. For example if CAMHS are required to respond to a critical mental health incident this will impact the waiting list targets. All progress is fragile Page 55
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18 IPMF Section 2 – Strategic Planning, Performance & Technology Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • There is continuing improvement in the number of Telecare reviews during Q2, building on the progress in made in Q1. • Silvercloud remains a challenge as referrals are dependent upon medical professionals referring to the service and then the user taking up the service. Staff absence within the TEC team in Q4 of 24/25 led to a pause in new referrals being accepted and this drop in Q1 is most likely attributed to this pause. However, there has been an increase over Q2 and Q3 already has an increase in activity, so this is positive. • Most cancer treatments for Argyll & Bute residents are carried out at NHS GG&C sites. The number of breaches has reduced. Planning and performance are monitoring the data to understand the 5 breaches that have been reported and to address any data quality issues. Page 56
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19 • Performance against the 12-week standard is very near targeted levels but sustained pressure within the Oral Surgery and Ophthalmology specialties continues to lengthen waiting times. • There are plans to eliminate Oral Surgery waiting times beyond >52 by the end of March. The HSCP is using the Outsourcing Framework from Health Improvement Scotland to bring in additional capacity. Longer term, service redesign in collaboration with NHSH hospital oral surgery and the public dental service is required to ensure better performance against >12-week target. • Opthalmology will remain a pressured speciality for the foreseeable future. NHS GG&C is struggling to provide agreed number of sessions for outreach clinics, but redesign of the service is underway to support and improve delivery. IPMF Section 3 – Primary Care Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • FQ2 Vaccination delivery. This KPI tracks our performance against the Scottish delivery rate % and the rate noted at FQ2 (Sep 2025) is low down to seasonality of the delivery programme. Our latest Covid uptake rate is 64%. Page 57
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20 • In relation to dental KPIs, the shortfalls are due to vacancies, maternity leave and sickness - we are recruiting and hope to achieve the KPIs in 26/27. IPMF Section 4 – Public Health Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • I note the progress with several of the Public Health KPIs in Q2 since Q1. The success with people stopping smoking is particularly welcome due to the significant impact of smoking on health. Several of the Public Health KPIs are annual targets, therefore progress will fluctuate over the course of quarterly reporting periods. This is the case for the CRAFT training indicator and training took place during Q3 that will be reported in the next cycle. In relation to the KPI about working with Scottish Government to influence and respond to national public health policy and strategy, this remains a relatively new target and the team is still finding a balance between a target that is sufficiently stretching and one that is achievable. Again, there is a seasonal element to this target with potentially less opportunities existing over summer months. Page 58
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21 IPMF Section 5 – Finance Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Monitor Older People Internal Residential Budget Spend: This is due to agency staffing within the care homes, however the situation is improving, and income recovery is increasing and performance is expected to improve in the second half of the year. • Monitor Older People External Residential Budget Spend: This is due to continuing high demand for placements. • Monitor Lorn & Islands Hospital Overall Budget: The situation is expected to continue to improve as permanent medical staff have been appointed and reliance of locum medical staffing is reducing. • Monitor the HSCP total budget to ensure this remains on track. The HSCP is continuing to overspend but there are some signs of improvement. Children’s external placements are currently the biggest single area of concern with a £1m overspend forecast. Page 59
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22 • The HSCP is overspending and forecasting an overspend. It is working to reduce spend through reductions in agency, delivery of savings and implementation of the threshold of care. Vacancies are also being held in anticipation of further service reductions for 2026/27. • At present it is expected that the HSCP will be able to fund its overspending from reserves and therefore does not, at present, expect to rely upon additional support from the funding partners. IPMF Section 6 – Carers Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Following the Fair Access and Efficiencies of Care paper presented to the IJB in November, there has been a notable increase in the number of concerned families seeking and receiving support from the carer services. Routine welfare calls with families supporting an older adult have taken considerably longer, with staff spending additional time providing reassurance and explaining the reasons behind the changes. The IJB paper did acknowledge this potential impact on families. Page 60
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23 • Although fewer formal reviews have been carried out this quarter, a substantial amount of time has been dedicated to supporting families. It was also noted that significant time was spent providing support to individuals with an ACSP who fall within the low to moderate risk categories, rather than the substantial or critical levels. IPMF Section 7 – Allied Health Professionals Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Noting the shift to a zero target for waiting times as a true reflection of performance targets and the need to monitor this new KPI target. • The ability to achieve lower waiting times is impacted on staff capacity and availability; this is impacted by vacancy rates, time to recruit being lengthy and the overall reduction in the use of supplementary staffing (locum). Page 61
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24 • Planned establishment reviews for 2026 will also indicate staffing levels compared to demand and activity. IPMF Section 8 – Delayed Discharges Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Reduce the number of people delayed at monthly census. This has been a challenging period, new template for reporting was introduced, our delayed discharge co-ordinator was in post, our approach shifted to focus on being solution focussed with a planned date of discharge was now in place. However, despite the best efforts to address our delays the data shows a Page 62
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25 significant reduction in performance. Our bed delays have been a direct response to the availability of being able to progress AWI which are significantly high numbers, the availability of care home placements due to outbreak of norovirus and availability of care at home. These areas have all been address with additional resource to support the flow specifically in these 3 key areas. • Reduce the overall length of stay in hospital at monthly census point. This is the impact of the above and being able to progress these areas in a timely manner which has resulted not only in increased delays but also increase in the length of stay. • Reduce the number of people delayed in hospital with AWI code at monthly census point. The numbers of people requiring statutory measures to be able to move from hospital has increased significantly this period, additional resource has been identified to enable this to be progressed as a priority. This will commence in January 2026 and will be ring-fenced purely for the purpose of hospital discharge. • Reduce the number of people delayed in hospital at monthly census point. There is work going on around this as often when patients are in GGC hospitals there is an expectation that people will be discharged with a higher package of care to ensure they are able to fully recover at home. Our recent meeting with GGC highlighted that in A&B we are often unable to meet these demands. We now have a discharge co-ordinator on the wards, attending MDT meetings and liaising with families to establish what informal networks of support are available therefore reducing the demand on care packages. We are confident this will start to show in our data moving forward in terms of unmet need. IPMF Section 9 – Adult Social Care Page 63
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26 Please Identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Reduce unplanned admissions to A&B hospitals directly from a care home This KPI has been out with target in both Q1 and Q2, although Q2 notes a slight improvement. The plan is to work closely with our colleagues within our whole system approach to early intervention and prevention, we will analyse the data in relation to this and work closely with the lead nurse for care homes to looks at possible solutions to this moving forward, identifying any themes and establishments. • We are taking a full system approach to managing unmet need which includes reviewing our assessment and care management processes. This means increased scrutiny around levels of care required which results in lower levels of unmet need overall. • Staff absence and vacancies have impacted review activity , and we have 4 temporary social work assistants in post to support with Care at Home review activity. IPMF Section 10 – Community Hospitals Page 64
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27 Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Reduce the average length of stay for inpatients in A&B Community Hospitals. We have experienced some challenges over this quarter with care home placements being restricted due to outbreak of norovirus, this has resulted in people remaining in hospital beds longer than anticipated. We also have a significant number of patients awaiting AWI intervention again resulting in longer length of stays. The implementation of a holistic view of delays will allow such challenges to be identified earlier in the process and solutions sought. • A&E attendances meeting the 4 hrs wait target. This quarter noted a slight increase in waiting times in comparison to Q1, this will be monitored closely with analysis on specific areas to allow us to establish the cause and solutions sought. IPMF Section 11 – Adults with Long Term Conditions & ASP Page 65
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28 Please identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Monthly waiting for psychological therapy services (>18 weeks): This demonstrates continued service improvement, particularly through the streamlining of referral management and administration processes. • Reduce the number of clients on Dynamic Support Register with category Amber/Red: During Q2, The client have complex needs and this does not always support client return to the immediate area. Minimal infrastructure and support impacting the KPI. • Reduce the number of people waiting for a new Mental Health Outpatient service (>12 weeks): The mental health outpatient service remained subject to sustained and increasing operational pressure. This was due in part to a continuing rise in referrals for neurodevelopmental assessment, particularly in relation to ADHD. In addition, a vacancy in the Consultant Psychiatrist post covering Kintyre and Islay during the reporting period led to routine psychiatric reviews being deferred, including those typically completed by the resident doctor under consultant supervision. • MH Social Circumstances Report Overdue: work around the completion of a SCR policy continues, which will be a guide for MHOs, emphasising the importance of providing the MWC and RMO with a copy of a SCR (or at least the front page and explaining why a full SCR has not been provided). • Adult Support & Protection: KPI targets consistently not met owing to increase in referrals (wider client group to be potentially considered as adults at risk promoted in the revised Code of Practice 2022). Development of daily referral screening and Huddle for allocation has resulted in all referrals received being considered - there is no longer any ‘screening out’ before completion of Page 66
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29 an ASP Inquiry where the referral has suggested that the adult is at risk of harm. Use of ‘Investigative Tasks’ undertaken, as part of an Initial Inquiry, as encouraged by the revised Code of Practice, has changed the way in which data recording for Inquiries and Investigations might best be recorded and this needs further consideration in terms of our existing standalone ‘Investigations’ KPI. We have less staff able to undertake ASP work and of staff able there are increasing competing priorities and a shift in the prioritisation of adult SW activity away from ASP. • Drug & Alcohol Completed Waiting Times from Referral to First Treatment (LDP):The quarter under question coincides with a period of increased leave during school/summer holiday period and has significant impact on small teams of 2 to 3 team members. IPMF Section 12 – Rural General Hospital (Lorn & Islands Hospital) Page 67
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30 Please Identify any influencing factors impacting on performance against off target KPIs: • Work is ongoing to develop reports to increase scrutiny on A&E long waiting patients which will highlight trends over time by breach reason so these can be improved. • Performance against the 4hour target continues to be very good at mostly above 90%, dropping slightly due to increased seasonal tourism pressures in summer. Page 68
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES EDUCATION 5 MARCH 2026 ACHIEVEMENT OF CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE LEVELS 2024/25 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of the report is to update members on pupil Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence levels (ACEL) at Primaries 1, 4 and 7 and Secondary 3rd year across Argyll and Bute primary and secondary schools. The report compares the performance of Argyll and Bute schools to the national average and to local authorities in the same Local Government Benchmarking Framework (LGBF) group (Highland, Midlothian, Scottish Borders and Stirling, East Lothian, Moray and Angus) and quad group (East Lothian, Moray and Angus). Local Government Benchmarking Framework groups are ‘family groups’ of councils that are similar in terms of the type of population that they serve (e.g. relative deprivation and affluence) and the type of area in they cover (e.g. urban, semi-rural, rural). Therefore, comparisons between similar authorities are more likely to lead to useful learning and improvement. 1.2 Argyll and Bute performance is in line with national performance in Literacy at P1, P4 and S3 Third Level or Better and is ahead of national performance in S3 Fourth Level. Argyll and Bute is behind in P7, with performance impacting the P1,4,7 combined measure, which is also behind the national figure. Argyll and Bute performance is in line or ahead of national performance in almost all measures in Numeracy. P7 Numeracy remains behind national performance. In Listening and Talking, Argyll and Bute is in line with national performance across all stages, except for S3 Fourth level, which is ahead of national performance. Page 69 Agenda Item 7
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1.3 In Reading, Argyll and Bute is ahead of national performance at P4 and S3 Fourth level. Performance is in line with national figures across all other measures. In Writing, Argyll and Bute is ahead of national performance at S3 Level 4, in line at P1, P4 and S3 level 3 or better, and behind at P7 and P1,4,7 combined. 1.4 In 2025, Argyll and Bute was in line or ahead of national performance in 83% of all measures. This marks a significant improvement on performance in 21/22, where the authority only matched national performance in 2 out of 30 measures. In recovering from pandemic related disruption, all Primary stages performance has improved by 13.8% points in Literacy and 11.0% points in Numeracy. Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in the LGBF Family Group With regards to its LGBF family group, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 4 of 6 Literacy measures and all 6 numeracy measures over the 2022-2025 period. With regard to its Quad group, Argyll and Bute improved its ranking in 4 of 6 measures for both Literacy and Numeracy. 1.5 For the third year in a row, Argyll and Bute is above the National figure for Literacy and Numeracy performance amongst pupils from SIMD quintile 1 (20% most deprived areas). Argyll and Bute is 7th in Scotland for SIMD Quintile 1 performance in Literacy and 10th for Numeracy. 1.6 Attainment gaps in Literacy and Numeracy increased very slightly despite performance of Quintile 1 pupils increasing in both Literacy and Numeracy. Quintile 1 performance in Literacy is the highest to date and Numeracy matched the previous high achieved in 2019. Nevertheless, improvements in Quintile 5 performance mean that the attainment gap has extended, whilst remaining significantly smaller than gaps experienced in 2021 and 2022. 1.7 Argyll and Bute was ranked in the top half of all local authorities across 30% of possible ACEL measures. Rankings improved in 26 of 30 measures against performance in 2021/22. 1.8 RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the Community Services Committee: a) Consider the information in this report, relating to the attainment performance of school pupils at Primaries 1/4/7 and Secondary 3rd year; Page 70
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b) Note the progress that has been made by Argyll and Bute schools in closing the poverty related attainment gap between those residing in Quintile 1 and Quintile 5. c) Note the improvement that has been made in all measures when compared to attainment in session 2021/22. Page 71
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES EDUCATION 5 MARCH 2026 ACHIEVEMENT OF CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE LEVELS 2024/25 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 In December 2025, national data was published relating to Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence levels (ACEL) for pupils in primaries 1, 4 and 7 and pupils in 3rd year within secondary schools. This data focusses on attainment levels in numeracy and in literacy: reading, writing, talking and listening. 2.2 Data was submitted by all schools in June 2025. In Argyll and Bute, we have a rigorous quality assurance process in place in order to ensure the validity and accuracy of the data that schools submit. 2.3 The data contained within this report evidences how Argyll and Bute Schools are performing compared to national averages and to local authorities within the same Local Government Benchmarking Framework (LGBF) Group and Local Authority Quad group. Further data and information can be found in appendix 1. 2.4 Improving attainment across Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) levels remains a key focus for the Education Service. All schools are supported and challenged in order to ensure that all children and young people attain and achieve to the highest possible level. Rigorous monitoring and tracking of pupil attainment across all of our schools is central to our work in this area. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Community Services Committee: a) Consider the information in this report, relating to the attainment performance of school pupils at Primaries 1/4/7 and Secondary 3rd year; b) Note the progress that has been made by Argyll and Bute schools in closing the poverty related attainment gap between those residing in Quintile 1 and Quintile 5. Page 72
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c) Note the improvement that has been made in all measures when compared to attainment in session 2021/22. 4.0 DETAIL 4.1 National Comparison Comparisons to national performance are given throughout and labelled as follows: • Behind – more than 1.0% point behind the national figure • In line – within 1.0% of the national figure, either ahead or behind • Ahead – more than 1.0% point ahead of the national figure 4.2 Literacy The visuals and analysis below provide a comparison between Argyll and Bute and National performance in Literacy. Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in each of the Primary measures. Data is provided from the last pre- pandemic session (2018-19) until the last academic session (2024-25). • Literacy performance in P1 is in line with national performance. This is in line with last year’s performance and continues to build on previous years where Argyll and Bute was behind the national figure (2021-2023). • Literacy performance in P4 is in line with national performance. This is a small improvement on last year. • Literacy performance in P7 is behind national performance. This continues a Page 73
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trend that has existed in each of the last 6 sessions in which an ACEL collection was completed. Nevertheless, the performance of 70.6% is the highest it has been over the last 6 sessions and marks an improvement of 0.7% points on 2024. • Literacy performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is slightly behind national performance. This is due to the performance of the P7 cohort which lowers attainment in this combined measured. Nevertheless, the gap to the national figure remains at 2% points, a marked improvement on the gap of 8.3% points which occurred in 2021. Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in both secondary measures. • Literacy performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.7% points) and is the first time Argyll and Bute is within 1% point of the national figure over the last five sessions where data was collected. The 0.8% point gap to the national figure is significantly smaller than the last pre-pandemic session which saw a gap of 4.1% points. • Literacy performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 2.6% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. This 5-year high marks a significant improvement (+20.8% points) on the 2022 figure of 45.9%. 4.3 Listening and Talking Primary Page 74
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The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Listening and Talking across each of the primary measures. • Listening and Talking performance in P1 is in line with national performance. This is an improvement on 2024 where Argyll and Bute was 1.6% points behind the national figure. • Listening and Talking performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The authority figure of 87.1% is a small improvement on 2024 and is only 0.2% points behind the last pre-pandemic session figure of 87.3% • Listening and Talking performance in P7 is in line with national performance. This marks an increase on 2024 performance where Argyll and Bute was 2.4% points behind the national performance. The 2025 figure of 87.5% is the highest it has been over these 6 sessions. • Listening and Talking performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from 7.5% points in 2021 to 0.3% points in 2025. Page 75
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Listening and Talking across both secondary measures. • Listening and Talking performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.2% points) and is the first time Argyll and Bute has exceeded the national figure over the last five sessions where data was collected. • Listening and Talking performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 1.1% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. This 5-year high marks a significant improvement (+19.2% points) on the 2022 figure of 51.5%. 4.4 Reading Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Reading across each of the primary measures. Page 76
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• Reading performance in P1 is in line with national performance for the second year in a row. The figure of 80.8% marks a slight decline on 2024 performance – a pattern which also occurred nationally. Nevertheless, performance remains significantly ahead of 2021 (+6.5% points) and 2022 (+6.4% points) figures. • Reading performance in P4 is ahead of national performance. This is the second year in a row that the authority has been more than 1% point ahead of the national figure. The figure of 80.2% is also significantly up (+11.4% points) on a low experienced in 2021. • Reading performance in P7 is in line with national performance. This marks a significant improvement of 3.0% points against 2024 – an increase which saw the gap to national performance drop from -2.8% points to -0.5% points. • Reading performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from -4.9% points in 2022 to +0.3% points in 2025. This is the first time we have exceeded the national figure since 2019. Page 77
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Reading across both secondary measures. • Reading performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+1.6% points) and is the highest figure in the last 5 sessions where data was collected. • Reading performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 3.0% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. The +1.9% point gap to the national figure marks a significant improvement on performance in 2022 and 2023 where the gap to national was -4.6% points and - 6.9% points respectively. This 5-year high also marks a significant improvement (+20.4% points) on the 2022 figure of 49.8%. Page 78
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4.5 Writing Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Writing across each of the primary measures. • Writing performance in P1 is in line with national performance. The figure of 77.8% marks a small decline against 2024 – a pattern that was also experienced nationally. Nevertheless, performance remains significantly above the figures achieved in 2021 (+10.8% points) and 2022 (9.3% points). • Writing performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The figure of 73.6% marks a small decline against 2024. Nevertheless, performance remains above the last pre-pandemic session and significantly up on a low of 61.2% achieved in 2022. • Writing performance in P7 is behind national performance. This has occurred in five of the last six sessions where data was collected. Performance against 2024 has improved slightly (+0.2% points) but the gap to the national figure has grown from 2.9% points to 3.7% points. • Writing performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is behind national performance. This is driven primarily by performance in P7. Nevertheless, the gap of -1.8% points remains significantly down on gaps experienced in 2021 (7.0% points) and 2022 (7.5% points) respectively. Page 79
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Writing across both secondary measures. • Writing performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.3% points) and is the highest figure in the last 5 sessions where data was collected. Performance in 2025 is only the second session of the last 5 where Argyll and Bute has been in line with national performance. • Writing performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 2.8% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. The +2.2% point gap to the national figure marks a significant improvement on performance in 2022 and 2023 where the gap to national was -4.2% points and - 7.8% points respectively. This 5-year high also marks a significant improvement (+20.8% points) on the 2022 figure of 47.6%. Page 80
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4.6 Numeracy The visuals and analysis below provide a comparison between Argyll and Bute and National performance in Numeracy. Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Numeracy across each of the primary measures. • Numeracy performance in P1 is in line with national performance. The 2025 figure of 85.3% marks the highest performance over the last 6 sessions and an improvement of 1.1% points on 2024. The figure is 0.7% points ahead of the national figure – a significant turnaround on 2022 when the national figure was 6.0% points ahead of Argyll and Bute. • Numeracy performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The 2025 figure of 78.5% marks a small decline on the 80.2% achieved in 2024. Nevertheless, this is the second year in a row in which Argyll and Bute has been above the national figure. The 2025 figure also maintains a level of achievement which far exceeds that of 2021(+12.0% points) and 2022 (+9.7% points). • Numeracy performance in P7 is behind national performance. Performance is in line with 2024 and remains significantly above the 5-year low of 65.2% achieved in 2021. • Numeracy performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from -5.7% points in 2021 to -0.4% points in 2025. Page 81
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in both secondary measures. • Numeracy performance in S3 at Third Level or better is ahead of national performance. The 2025 marks an improvement of +1.4% points against 2024 performance – the highest figure since the last pandemic session of 2018/19. The gap to the national figure has grown again. Performance in Argyll and Bute was 2.6% points higher than national figures, an improvement on the + 1.8% point gap that occurred in 2024. • Numeracy performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. This is a significant improvement on 2023 performance, where Argyll and Bute was 6 percentage points behind. An improvement of 7 percentage points in 2024 means that Argyll and Bute is now 1 percentage point behind the national figure. Page 82
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4.7 Overall Comparison The tables below provide a qualitative overview of performance against the national figure for each curricular component and all possible measures. As in earlier sections of this report, the following qualitative labels have been applied to all comparisons with national figures: • Behind – more than 1.0% point behind the national figure • In line – within 1.0% of the national figure, either ahead or behind • Ahead – more than 1.0% point ahead of the national figure The table below shows how Argyll and Bute compared against the national figures using the same criteria in the 2021/22 session: 2021/22 Data Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 2. P4 (First Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 3. P7 (Second Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) Behind In Line In Line Behind Behind 6. S3 (Level 4) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind The table below shows how Argyll and Bute compared against the national figures using the same criteria in the 2024/25 session: 2024/25 Data Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) In Line In Line In Line In Line In Line 2. P4 (First Level) In Line Ahead In Line In Line In Line 3. P7 (Second Level) In Line In Line Behind Behind Behind 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined In Line In Line Behind Behind In Line 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) In Line In Line In Line In Line Ahead 6. S3 (Level 4) Ahead Ahead Ahead Ahead Ahead • In 2024/25, of 30 attainment measures, 5 were behind the national figure, 18 were in line and 7 were ahead. • 83% of all measures were in line (60%) or ahead (23%) of national figures. • All measures at S3 were in line or ahead of national figures, whilst P7 was behind in 60% of all measures. Page 83
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5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 This report provides a summary of Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels (ACEL) for pupils at Primaries 1,4,7 and Secondary 3rd year. It evidences progress made against national averages across a number of literacy and numeracy measures and highlights improvement that has been made in all measures when compared to attainment in session 2021/22. It also highlights the fact that combined attainment averages for Argyll and Bute schools are either in line or ahead of the national averages in 25 out of a possible 30 measures; demonstrating an improving picture. We commend the hard work of learners, school staff and the central team in securing progress in attainment across the Broad General Education (BGE) from P1-S3 5.2 Central Officers continue to take forward the programme of support and challenge with schools across the authority, involving a range of actions and measures to support schools to secure further improvement in attainment and achievement. Increasing attainment and achievement, and ensuring that all young people achieve to their potential, regardless of location, circumstance or potential barriers, is at the heart of the work of the Education Service. 5.3 Heads of Service and Managers continue to meet regularly with Head Teachers to ensure appropriate levels of both scrutiny and collaboration are in place in relation to performance and securing positive outcomes for young people. This work is reinforced and enhanced by central staff through their involvement with national performance networks, such as the Local Authority Quad group (partnership with Angus, Moray and East Lothian) and the Association of Directors (ADES) which allows them to share best practice with wider Local Authority colleagues. 5.4 Additionally, the Education Service has reviewed and improved the process for analysis and evaluation of attainment data. Attainment Meetings with individual Primary and 2-18 Head Teachers take place in April/May and with secondary Head Teachers in November/December. All aspects of attainment are analysed and key improvement strategies to raise attainment are discussed and agreed. 5.5 Two Primary Head Teacher representatives will present their locality attainment overview at Local Area Committees in March 2026. Secondary school Head Teachers will present individual school performance analysis for session 2024-2025 at Local Area Committees in June 2026. Page 84
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6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy: This report links directly to Education in the Argyll and Bute Corporate Plan 2023-2027 (Attaining and achieving at all stages). NIF: Priorities 3 and 5 and Argyll and Bute Education Service plan and strategy. 6.2 Financial: None 6.3 Legal: None 6.4 HR: None 6.5 Customer Service: This report provides elected Members with an overview of an aspect of service performance. 6.6 Risk: The performance of Argyll and Bute schools can significantly enhance or detract from the Council’s reputation and attractiveness as an area to work and live in. 6.7 Climate Change: None 6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty: None 6.9 Equalities – Protected Characteristics: This report links directly to NIF Priority 3: Closing the attainment gap between the most and least disadvantaged children and young people and NIF Priority 5: Improvement in attainment and achievement, particularly in literacy and numeracy. 6.10 Consumer Duty – None 6.11 Island Communities – None 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing – This report links to Article 29 (goals of education) Douglas Hendry - Executive Director with responsibility for Education Kieron Green - Policy Lead for Education 29th January 2026 For further information contact: Wendy Brownlie - Head of Education – Performance and Improvement Jennifer Crocket - Chief Education Officer/ Head of Education – Wellbeing, Inclusion and Achievement Brendan Docherty - Education Manager –Performance and Improvement James Bowness - Education Lead – Benchmarking, Data and Performance APPENDICES - Appendix 1 ACEL Report 24-25 Page 85
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ACHIEVEMENT OF A CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE LEVEL (ACEL) 24/25 BENCHMARKING OVERVIEW Executive Summary Key findings from the 2024/25 ACEL data include: • Argyll and Bute performance is in line with national performance in Literacy at P1, P4 and S3 Third Level or Better and is ahead of national performance in S3 Fourth Level. Argyll and Bute is behind in P7, with performance impacting the P1,4,7 combined measure, which is also behind the national figure. • Argyll and Bute performance is in line or ahead of national performance in almost all measures in Numeracy. P7 Numeracy remains behind national performance. • In Listening and Talking, Argyll and Bute is in line with national performance across all stages, except for S3 Fourth level, which is ahead of national performance. • In Reading, Argyll and Bute is ahead of national performance at P4 and S3 Fourth level. Performance is in line with national figures across all other measures. • In Writing, Argyll and Bute is ahead of national performance at S3 Level 4, in line at P1, P4 and S3 level 3 or better, and behind at P7 and P1,4,7 combined. • In 2025, Argyll and Bute was in line or ahead of national performance in 83% of all measures. This marks a significant improvement on performance in 21/22, where the authority only matched national performance in 2 out of 30 measures. • In recovering from pandemic related disruption, all Primary stages performance has improved by 13.8% points in Literacy and 11.0% points in Numeracy. • Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in the LGBF Family Group • With regards to its LGBF family group, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 4 of 6 Literacy measures and all 6 numeracy measures over the 2022-2025 period. With regard to its Quad group, Argyll and Bute improved its ranking in 4 of 6 measures for both Literacy and Numeracy. • For the third year in a row, Argyll and Bute is above the National figure for Literacy and Numeracy performance amongst pupils from SIMD quintile 1 (20% most deprived areas). Argyll and Bute is 7th in Scotland for SIMD Quintile 1 performance in Literacy and 10th for Numeracy. • Attainment gaps in Literacy and Numeracy increased very slightly despite performance of Quintile 1 pupils increasing in both Literacy and Numeracy. Quintile 1 performance in Literacy is the highest it has ever been and Numeracy matched the previous high achieved in 2019. Nevertheless, improvements in Quintile 5 performance mean that the attainment gap has extended, whilst remaining significantly smaller than gaps experienced in 2021 and 2022. • Argyll and Bute was ranked in the top half of all local authorities across 30% of possible ACEL measures. Rankings improved in 26 of 30 measures against performance in 2021/22. Appendix 1 Page 87
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Contents Executive Summary ................................................................................................................ 1 National Comparison ............................................................................................................. 3 Literacy .............................................................................................................................. 3 Listening and Talking ....................................................................................................... 5 Reading ........................................................................................................................... 7 Writing ............................................................................................................................ 9 Numeracy ......................................................................................................................... 11 Overall Comparison .......................................................................................................... 13 Local Government Benchmarking Framework Family Group .................................................. 14 Literacy ............................................................................................................................ 14 Listening and Talking ..................................................................................................... 15 Reading ......................................................................................................................... 16 Writing .......................................................................................................................... 17 Literacy – LGBF and Quad Progress ................................................................................ 18 Numeracy ......................................................................................................................... 19 Numeracy - LGBF and Quad Progress ............................................................................. 20 LGBF Family Group and Quad Ranking Overview ................................................................ 21 Performance of SIMD 20% Most Deprived Pupils ................................................................... 22 Comparison with National Performance ............................................................................ 22 Literacy ......................................................................................................................... 22 Numeracy ..................................................................................................................... 23 Comparison with other LAs and LGBF Family Group ........................................................... 24 Literacy ......................................................................................................................... 24 Numeracy ..................................................................................................................... 25 Argyll and Bute Attainment Gaps ........................................................................................... 26 Literacy ............................................................................................................................ 26 Numeracy ......................................................................................................................... 27 Argyll and Bute National Rankings ......................................................................................... 28 Page 88
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National Comparison Comparisons to national performance are given throughout and labelled as follows: • Behind – more than 1.0% point behind the national figure • In line – within 1.0% of the national figure, either ahead or behind • Ahead – more than 1.0% point ahead of the national figure Literacy The visuals and analysis below provide a comparison between Argyll and Bute and National performance in Literacy. Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in each of the Primary measures. Data is provided from the last pre-pandemic session (2018-19) until the last academic session (2024-25). • Literacy performance in P1 is in line with national performance. This is in line with last year’s performance and continues to build on previous years where Argyll and Bute was behind the national figure (2021-2023). • Literacy performance in P4 is in line with national performance. This is a small improvement on last year. • Literacy performance in P7 is behind national performance. This continues a trend that has existed in each of the last 6 sessions in which an ACEL collection was completed. Nevertheless, the performance of 70.6% is the highest it has been over the last 6 sessions and marks an improvement of 0.7% points on 2024. Page 89
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• Literacy performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is slightly behind national performance. This is due to the performance of the P7 cohort which lowers attainment in this combined measured. Nevertheless, the gap to the national figure remains at 2% points, a marked improvement on the gap of 9% points which occurred in has closed from 8.3% points which occurred in 2021. Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in both secondary measures. • Literacy performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.7% points) and is the first time Argyll and Bute is within 1% point of the national figure over the last five sessions where data was collected. The 0.8% point gap to the national figure is significantly smaller than the last pre-pandemic session which saw a gap of 4.1% points. • Literacy performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 2.6% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. This 5- year high marks a significant improvement (+20.8% points) on the 2022 figure of 45.9%. Page 90
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Listening and Talking Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Listening and Talking across each of the primary measures. • Listening and Talking performance in P1 is in line with national performance. This is an improvement on 2024 where Argyll and Bute was 1.6% points behind the national figure. • Listening and Talking performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The authority figure of 87.1% is a small improvement on 2024 and is only 0.2% points behind the last pre-pandemic session figure of 87.3% • Listening and Talking performance in P7 is in line with national performance. This marks an increase on 2024 performance where Argyll and Bute was 2.4% points behind the national performance. The 2025 figure of 87.5% is the highest it has been over these 6 sessions. • Listening and Talking performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from 7.5% points in 2021 to 0.3% points in 2025. Page 91
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Listening and Talking across both secondary measures. • Listening and Talking performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.2% points) and is the first time Argyll and Bute has exceeded the national figure over the last five sessions where data was collected. • Listening and Talking performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 1.1% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. This 5-year high marks a significant improvement (+19.2% points) on the 2022 figure of 51.5%. Page 92
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Reading Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Reading across each of the primary measures. • Reading performance in P1 is in line with national performance for the second year in a row. The figure of 80.8% marks a slight decline on 2024 performance – a pattern which also occurred nationally. Nevertheless, performance remains significantly ahead of 2021 (+6.5% points) and 2022 (+6.4% points) figures. • Reading performance in P4 is ahead of national performance. This is the second year in a row that the authority has been more than 1% point ahead of the national figure. The figure of 80.2% is also significantly up (+11.4% points) on a low experienced in 2021. • Reading performance in P7 is in line with national performance. This marks a significant improvement of 3.0% points against 2024 – an increase which saw the gap to national performance drop from -2.8% points to -0.5% points. • Reading performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from -4.9% points in 2022 to +0.3% points in 2025. This is the first time we have exceeded the national figure since 2019. Page 93
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Reading across both secondary measures. • Reading performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+1.6% points) and is the highest figure in the last 5 sessions where data was collected. • Reading performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 3.0% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. The +1.9% point gap to the national figure marks a significant improvement on performance in 2022 and 2023 where the gap to national was -4.6% points and -6.9% points respectively. This 5-year high also marks a significant improvement (+20.4% points) on the 2022 figure of 49.8%. Page 94
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Writing Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Writing across each of the primary measures. • Writing performance in P1 is in line with national performance. The figure of 77.8% marks a small decline against 2024 – a pattern that was also experienced nationally. Nevertheless, performance remains significantly above the figures achieved in 2021 (+10.8% points) and 2022 (9.3% points). • Writing performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The figure of 73.6% marks a small decline against 2024. Nevertheless, performance remains above the last pre-pandemic session and significantly up on a low of 61.2% achieved in 2022. • Writing performance in P7 is behind national performance. This has occurred in five of the last six sessions where data was collected. Performance against 2024 has improved slightly (+0.2% points) but the gap to the national figure has grown from 2.9% points to 3.7% points. • Writing performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is behind national performance. This is driven primarily by performance in P7. Nevertheless, the gap of -1.8% points remains significantly down on gaps experienced in 2021 (7.0% points) and 2022 (7.5% points) respectively. Page 95
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Writing across both secondary measures. • Writing performance in S3 at Third Level or better is in line with national performance. This marks a notable improvement on 2024 (+2.3% points) and is the highest figure in the last 5 sessions where data was collected. Performance in 2025 is only the second session of the last 5 where Argyll and Bute has been in line with national performance. • Writing performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. An improvement of 2.8% points on 2024 performance continues a positive trend which sees Argyll and Bute being ahead of the national figure for a second year in a row. The +2.2% point gap to the national figure marks a significant improvement on performance in 2022 and 2023 where the gap to national was -4.2% points and -7.8% points respectively. This 5-year high also marks a significant improvement (+20.8% points) on the 2022 figure of 47.6%. Page 96
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Numeracy The visuals and analysis below provide a comparison between Argyll and Bute and National performance in Numeracy. Primary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in Numeracy across each of the primary measures. • Numeracy performance in P1 is in line with national performance. The 2025 figure of 85.3% marks the highest performance over the last 6 sessions and an improvement of 1.1% points on 2024. The figure is 0.7% points ahead of the national figure – a significant turnaround on 2022 when the national figure was 6.0% points ahead of Argyll and Bute. • Numeracy performance in P4 is in line with national performance. The 2025 figure of 78.5% marks a small decline on the 80.2% achieved in 2024. Nevertheless, this is the second year in a row in which Argyll and Bute has been above the national figure. The 2025 figure also maintains a level of achievement which far exceeds that of 2021(+12.0% points) and 2022 (+9.7% points). • Numeracy performance in P7 is behind national performance. Performance is in line with 2024 and remains significantly above the 5-year low of 65.2% achieved in 2021. • Numeracy performance in P1, P4 and P7 Combined is in line national performance. The gap between Argyll and Bute and the national figure has fallen from -5.7% points in 2021 to -0.4% points in 2025. Page 97
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Secondary The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against National performance in both secondary measures. • Numeracy performance in S3 at Third Level or better is ahead of national performance. The 2025 marks an improvement of +1.4% points against 2024 performance – the highest figure since the last pandemic session of 2018/19. The gap to the national figure has grown again. Performance in Argyll and Bute was 2.6% points higher than national figures, an improvement on the + 1.8% point gap that occurred in 2024. • Numeracy performance in S3 at Fourth level is ahead of national performance. This is a significant improvement on 2023 performance, where Argyll and Bute was 6 percentage points behind. An improvement of 7 percentage points in 2024 means that Argyll and Bute is now 1 percentage point behind the national figure. Page 98
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Overall Comparison The table below provides a qualitative overview of performance against the national figure for each curricular component and all possible measures. As in earlier sections of this report, the following qualitative labels have been applied to all comparisons with national figures: • Behind – more than 1.0% point behind the national figure • In line – within 1.0% of the national figure, either ahead or behind • Ahead – more than 1.0% point ahead of the national figure Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) In Line In Line In Line In Line In Line 2. P4 (First Level) In Line Ahead In Line In Line In Line 3. P7 (Second Level) In Line In Line Behind Behind Behind 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined In Line In Line Behind Behind In Line 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) In Line In Line In Line In Line Ahead 6. S3 (Level 4) Ahead Ahead Ahead Ahead Ahead • Of 30 attainment measures, 5 were behind the national figure, 18 were in line and 7 were ahead. • 83% of all measures were in line (60%) or ahead (23%) of national figures. • All measures at S3 were in line or ahead of national figures, whilst P7 was behind in 60% of all measures. To provide context to the latest set of data, the table below shows how Argyll and Bute compared against the national figures using the same criteria in the 2021/22 session: Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 2. P4 (First Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 3. P7 (Second Level) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) Behind In Line In Line Behind Behind 6. S3 (Level 4) Behind Behind Behind Behind Behind Page 99
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Local Government Benchmarking Framework Family Group The visuals and analysis below provide a comparison in performance between Argyll and Bute and its Local Government Benchmarking Framework (LGBF) Family Group and Quad partner authorities. Quad partners, in light blue, include Angus, East Lothian and Moray. The wider LGBF partner authorities are in dark blue and include Highland, Midlothian, Scottish Borders and Stirling. Literacy The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against the performance of our LGBF family group and Quad partner authorities in Literacy. • Literacy performance in P1 is ahead of two LGBF family group authorities, in line with two and behind three. Highland has the lowest figure (69.9%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (82.0%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Literacy performance in P4 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities and behind five. Highland has the lowest figure (65.9%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (77.4%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Literacy performance in P7 is in line with two LGBF partner authority, and behind five. Scottish Borders has the lowest figure (70.4%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (78.3%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 4th within its quad. • Literacy performance in P1, P4 and P7 combined is ahead of one LGBF partner authority, in line with two and behind four. Highland has the lowest figure (69.0%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (78.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 4th within its quad. Page 100
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• Literacy performance for S3 Third Level or better is ahead of three LGBF partner authorities, in line with two and behind two. East Lothian has the lowest figure (84.7%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (91.7%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Literacy performance for S3 Fourth level is ahead of seven LGBF partner authorities. East Lothian has the lowest figure (54.0%), whilst Argyll and Bute has the highest figure (66.7%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad. The section below explores the Literacy sub-components for both Primary and Secondary. Listening and Talking The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against the performance of our LGBF family group partner authorities in Listening and Talking. • Listening and Talking performance in P1 is ahead of one LGBF partner authority, in line with two and behind four. Highland has the lowest figure (85.4%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (89.0%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 4th within its quad. • Listening and Talking performance in P4 is ahead of one LGBF partner authorities, in line with two and behind four. Moray has the lowest figure (85.6%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (91.5%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Listening and Talking performance in P7 is in line with five LGBF partner authorities and behind two. Scottish Borders has the lowest figure (86.6%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (89.6%). Argyll and Bute is ranked joint 1st within its quad (Angus and East Lothian matched the 87.5% achieved by Argyll and Bute). Page 101
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• Listening and Talking performance in P1, P4 and P7 combined is in line with four LGBF partner authorities and behind three. Moray has the lowest figure (86.5%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (89.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Listening and Talking performance for S3 Third Level or better is ahead of four LGBF partner authorities, in line with two and behind one. East Lothian has the lowest figure (86.1%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (93.1%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Listening and Talking performance for S3 Fourth level is ahead of five LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind one. East Lothian has the lowest figure (59.2%), whilst Stirling has the highest figure (73.9%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad. Reading The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against the performance of our LGBF family group and Quad partner authorities in Reading. • Reading performance in P1 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with two and behind three. Highland has the lowest figure (75.6%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (86.3%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Reading performance in P4 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with two and behind three. Highland has the lowest figure (74.8%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (82.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Reading performance in P7 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with three and behind two. Midlothian has the lowest figure (79.5%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (85.4%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. Page 102
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• Reading performance in P1, P4 and P7 combined is ahead of one LGBF partner authorities, in line with four and behind two. Highland has the lowest figure (76.9%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (85.2%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Reading performance for S3 Third Level or better is ahead of three LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind three. East Lothian has the lowest figure (86.1%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (93.1%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Reading performance for S3 Fourth level is ahead of six LGBF partner authorities and in line with one. East Lothian has the lowest figure (58.5%), whilst Argyll and Bute and Moray have the highest figure (70.2%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad, alongside Moray. Writing The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against the performance of our LGBF family group partner authorities in Writing. • Writing performance in P1 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind four. Highland has the lowest figure (72.7%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (83.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked joint 2nd within its quad. • Writing performance in P4 is ahead of one LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind five. Highland has the lowest figure (69.3%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (79.4%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Writing performance in P7 is in line with two LGBF partner authorities and behind five. Highland has the lowest figure (72.8%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (80.3%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 4th within its quad. Page 103
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• Writing performance in P1, P4 and P7 combined is ahead of one LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind five. Highland has the lowest figure (71.6%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (80.9%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Writing performance for S3 Third Level or better is ahead of three LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind three. East Lothian has the lowest figure (85.7%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (92.9%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Writing performance for S3 Fourth level is ahead of six LGBF partner authorities and in line with one. East Lothian has the lowest figure (57.1%), whilst Argyll and Bute has the highest figure (68.4%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad. Literacy – LGBF and Quad Progress The table below shows the progress of all LGBF partner authorities for P1, P4 and P7 combined Literacy. Local Authority 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 5 Year Change Angus 72.2 75.1 76.2 78.2 78.8 6.7 Argyll & Bute 58.6 62.4 67.7 72.2 72.5 13.8 East Lothian 60.7 62.8 66.3 69.8 74.5 13.8 Highland 49.5 59.3 64.8 68.7 69.0 19.6 Midlothian 65.8 68.2 71.6 71.8 76.6 10.8 Moray 63.9 65.1 67.9 70.6 72.7 8.8 Scottish Borders 66.3 68.9 72.0 73.3 73.0 6.8 Stirling 73.6 76.6 76.4 77.6 76.7 3.1 • Argyll and Bute has seen a 13.8% point improvement in four sessions, beaten only by Highland (19.6% points). • Argyll and Bute was 15.0% points behind the highest performing authority in 2021 (Stirling). In 2025, this gap had reduced to 6.3% points (Angus) The visual below shows progress within P1,4,7 combined Literacy for Quad partner authorities only: Page 104
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• Despite improving by 0.3% points, Argyll and Bute has fallen from 2nd to 4th in the quad. This is because performance in East Lothian and Moray improved at a greater rate. Numeracy The visual below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute attainment against the performance of our LGBF family group partner authorities in Numeracy. Page 105
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• Numeracy performance in P1 is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with three and behind two. Highland has the lowest figure (79.2%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (87.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Numeracy performance in P4 is ahead of three LGBF partner authorities and behind four. Highland has the lowest figure (70.3%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (81.8%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Numeracy performance in P7 is ahead of three LGBF partner authorities, in line with two, and behind two. Highland has the lowest figure (74.7%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (81.4%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 3rd within its quad. • Numeracy performance in P1, P4 and P7 combined is ahead of two LGBF partner authorities, in line with three and behind two. Highland has the lowest figure (74.5%), whilst Angus has the highest figure (83.4%%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 2nd within its quad. • Numeracy performance for S3 Third Level or better is ahead of five LGBF partner authorities and in line with two. East Lothian has the lowest figure (85.2%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (93.9%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad. • Numeracy performance for S3 Fourth level is ahead of five LGBF partner authorities, in line with one and behind one. Scottish Borders has the lowest figure (54.1%), whilst Midlothian has the highest figure (72.0%). Argyll and Bute is ranked 1st within its quad. Numeracy - LGBF and Quad Progress The table below shows the progress of all LGBF partner authorities for P1, P4 and P7 combined Numeracy. Local Authority 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 5 Year Change Angus 78.4 81.8 81.6 82.9 83.4 5.0 Argyll & Bute 69.0 72.7 76.4 80.1 79.9 11.0 East Lothian 68.8 72.4 73.8 75.3 79.3 10.5 Highland 60.1 68.8 72.2 74.4 74.5 14.4 Midlothian 72.8 76.1 76.8 76.8 80.2 7.4 Moray 67.8 71.8 75.5 76.5 76.9 9.1 Scottish Borders 74.2 76.6 77.0 81.2 79.8 5.7 Stirling 80.1 82.1 82.7 83.8 81.3 1.2 • Argyll and Bute has seen an 11.0% point improvement in five sessions, beaten only by Highland (14.4% points). • Argyll and Bute was 11 percentage points behind the highest performing authority in 2021 (Stirling). In 2025, this gap had reduced to 3.5% points (Angus). The visual below shows progress within P1,4,7 combined Numeracy for Quad partner authorities only: Page 106
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• Despite declining by 0.2% points, Argyll and Bute has maintained its 2nd position in the quad. LGBF Family Group and Quad Ranking Overview The table below provides an overview of LGBF Family Group and Quad rankings for all measures of Literacy and Numeracy Attainment in 2021/22 (during the pandemic) and the latest session of 2024/25. Rankings All Measures 2021/22 Session 2024/25 Session Ranking Change LGBF Family Group Quad LGBF Family Group Quad LGBF Family Group Quad Stage Lit Num Lit Num Lit Num Lit Num Lit Num Lit Num 1. P1 (Early Level) 7 7 4 4 6 4 3 2 -1 -3 -1 -2 2. P4 (First Level) 7 7 4 4 6 5 3 2 -1 -2 -1 -2 3. P7 (Second Level) 6 5 3 2 7 4 4 3 1 -1 1 1 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined 7 5 4 2 7 4 4 2 0 -1 0 0 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) 5 5 3 3 4 2 2 1 -1 -3 -1 -2 6. S3 (Level 4) 5 6 3 3 1 2 1 1 -4 -4 -2 -2 • Progress against LGBF family group partner authorities has been made across both literacy and numeracy. o In literacy, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 4 of 6 measures. Literacy in S3 at Fourth Level has gone from 5th in 2022 to 1st in 2025. Page 107
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o In numeracy, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in all 6 measures. Numeracy at S3 has improved from 5th at Level 3 or better to 2nd and 6th at Level 4 to 2nd. P1 Numeracy has also improved from 7th to 4th. • Progress against Quad partner authorities has also been made across both literacy and numeracy. o In literacy, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 4 of 6 measures. Literacy in S3 at Fourth Level has gone from 3rd in 2022 to 1st in 2025. o In numeracy, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 4 of 6 measures. Numeracy at S3 is ranked top of the quad for both Third level and better and 4th level. Performance of SIMD 20% Most Deprived Pupils Comparison with National Performance The visuals below explore the performance of pupils from SIMD Quintile 1 (20% most deprived) in both Argyll and Bute and Scotland. P1, P4 and P7 combined has been used as a measure as a comprehensive indicator of pupil performance in Primary schools. Literacy The visual below shows the percentage of pupils who achieved the expected level in Literacy. • Argyll and Bute outperformed the national figure for the third year in a row. Page 108
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• Argyll and Bute performance is above with the previous session and significantly above performance in 2021 and 2022. The figure of 69.5% marks a high over this 8 year period for which data is available. • In the 8 sessions to date which have data on this measure, Argyll and Bute Quintile 1 pupils have outperformed National Quintile 1 pupils in 6 of 8 sessions (75%). Numeracy The visual below shows the percentage of pupils who achieved the expected level in Numeracy. • Argyll and Bute outperformed the national figure for the third year in a row. • Argyll and Bute performance is above with the previous session and significantly above performance in 2021 and 2022. The figure of 75.7% matches the high achieved in 2018/19. • In the 8 sessions to date which have data on this measure, Argyll and Bute Quintile 1 pupils have outperformed National Quintile 1 pupils in 6 of 8 sessions (75%). Page 109
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Comparison with other LAs and LGBF Family Group The visuals below explore the performance of pupils from SIMD Quintile 1 (20% most deprived). The P1, P4 and P7 combined measure is used as this has the most complete data. Not all 32 local authorities have published data in this measure due to small numbers of Quintile 1 learners. In the visuals below, LGBF family group partner authorities are presented in red. All other local authorities are presented in dark blue. Performance in Literacy and Numeracy is detailed below. Literacy The visual below shows the percentage of pupils who achieved the expected level in Literacy. The visual is ordered largest to smallest. • Argyll and Bute places 7th nationally in this measure, with 69.5% of SIMD quintile 1 pupils achieving the expected level in Literacy. This marks an improvement of 1 place in the rankings from 2024 (8th) Page 110
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• Argyll and Bute are ranked second in the LBGF family group in this measure and first in the quad. A figure for Moray is unavailable due to the suppression of data. Numeracy The visual below shows the percentage of pupils who achieved the expected level in Numeracy. The visual is ordered largest to smallest. • Argyll and Bute places 10th nationally in this measure, with 75.7% of SIMD quintile 1 pupils achieving the expected level in Literacy. This marks an improvement of one place in the rankings against 2024 (11th) • Argyll and Bute are ranked third in the LBGF family group and second in the Quad in this measure. A figure for Moray is unavailable due to the suppression of data. Page 111
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Argyll and Bute Attainment Gaps To assess progress in attainment gaps, the P1, P4 and P7 combined measure has been used as it has the biggest sample of pupils from both Quintiles 1 and Quintiles 5. Nevertheless, numbers of both groups are relatively small and therefore open to variation. We should therefore exercise caution in how we interpret this data. Literacy The visual below shows the progress over time of Quintile 1 and Quintile 5 pupils in Literacy: • The performance of Quintile 1 pupils was ahead of 2024, marking a sustained increased on the 2021 and 2022 figures. • Performance of Quintile 1 pupils is ahead of pre-pandemic performance and is the highest it has been over the period data is published (2016/17 onwards). • The performance of Quintile 5 pupils is ahead of 2024 and marks an improvement on the last pre-pandemic session (2018/19). • The attainment gap between Quintile 1 and 5 in Literacy was 17.1% points – a small increase on the 15.0% point gap that occurred in 2024. This occurred because Quintile 5 performance increased at a greater rate than Quintile 1 improvements. • The attainment gap of 17.1% points remains a significant improvement on both 2021 (32.5% points) and 2022 (27.4% points Page 112
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Numeracy The visual below shows the progress over time of Quintile 1 and Quintile 5 pupils in Numeracy: • The performance of Quintile 1 pupils was ahead of 2024 and continues to be significantly ahead of the 2021 and 2022 figures. • Performance of Quintile 1 pupils is now in line with the final pre-pandemic session. • The performance of Quintile 5 pupils is ahead of 2024 and is in line with the final pre- pandemic session. • The attainment gap between Quintile 1 and 5 in Numeracy was 15.3% points – a small increase on the 14.4% point gap that occurred in 2024. This occurred because Quintile 5 performance increased at a greater rate than the improvements achieved by Quintile 1. • The attainment gap of 15.3% points is a significant improvement on both 2021 (29.0% points) and 2022 (17.8% points) • The 2025 attainment gap is now in line with the gap experienced in 2019. Page 113
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Argyll and Bute National Rankings The table below provides an overview of Argyll and Bute’s national ranking across all ACEL measures: Curricular Area and National Ranking Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) 18 21 26 23 16 2. P4 (First Level) 20 16 20 20 16 3. P7 (Second Level) 23 19 27 29 24 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined 21 18 25 23 19 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) 18 21 21 21 8 6. S3 (Level 4) 14 12 12 12 9 • S3 Level 3 or better Numeracy is the highest ranked measure, placing 8th nationally. This is closely followed by S4 Level 4, which places 9th nationally. • Nine of 30 measures place 16th or higher, meaning that Argyll and Bute places in the top half nationally for 30% of all ACEL measures. • P7 Literacy is our worst ranked measure, placing 29th nationally. This is predominantly driven by performance in Writing, in which Argyll and Bute placed 27th. Writing at P1 also ranks relatively low, placing 26th nationally. To provide context to the current year’s data, the following table shows national rankings across the same measures in the 2021/22 session, as well as the change in ranking over this period: 2021/22 Curricular Area and National Ranking Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) 31 29 32 31 30 2. P4 (First Level) 32 29 31 30 28 3. P7 (Second Level) 27 26 28 28 25 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined 31 30 31 31 27 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) 20 18 19 21 22 6. S3 (Level 4) 23 24 24 18 19 Change from 21/22 to 24/25 Stage 1. Listening and Talking 2. Reading 3. Writing 4. Literacy 5. Numeracy 1. P1 (Early Level) 13 8 6 8 14 2. P4 (First Level) 12 13 11 10 12 3. P7 (Second Level) 4 7 1 -1 1 4. P1, P4 and P7 combined 10 12 6 8 8 5. S3 (Level 3 or better) 2 -3 -2 0 14 6. S3 (Level 4) 9 12 12 6 10 Page 114
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• Of 30 measures, Argyll and Bute has improved its ranking in 26 (87%), with 1 ranking staying the same and 3 declining. • In 2022, the highest ranked measure was S3 Level 3 or better Reading and S3 Level 4 Literacy, both of which placed 18th. In 2025, 11 measures were ranked 18th or higher. Page 115
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1 ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE EDUCATION 5 MARCH 2026 LUING PRIMARY SCHOOL – TEMPORARY CLOSURE REVIEW 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 The purpose of this report is to update the Community Services Committee on the current situation of Luing Primary School. The report proposes a number of measures under which the Education Service can monitor the position of the School over the forthcoming year. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 It is recommended that the Community Services Committee agree that: 2.1.1 Luing Primary School continues to be temporarily closed, and that the building be retained for one year on a care and maintenance basis. 2.1.2 Officers will conduct a further review of the School’s temporary closure ahead of the Committee’s March 2027 meeting. 2.1.3 The community shall have pre-arranged access to the building to promote any community functions during the period of continued temporary closure. Page 117 Agenda Item 9
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2 ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE EDUCATION 5 MARCH 2026 LUING PRIMARY SCHOOL – TEMPORARY CLOSURE REVIEW 3.0 INTRODUCTION 3.1 On 7th March 2024, the Community Services Committee considered a Consultation Report, produced in accordance with the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 (the 2010 Act) and decided to continue the temporary closure (formerly referred to as “mothballing”) of Luing Primary School for a further year to allow the community adequate time to demonstrate the sustainability of the School long-term. 3.2 As that constituted a decision not to implement a closure proposal, Section 2A of the 2010 Act applies. Under that provision, the Education Authority may not publish a Proposal Paper concerning a further closure proposal in relation to the School during the period of five years (beginning with the day on which the decision is made) unless there is a “significant change in the School's circumstances”. 3.3 On 6th March 2025, the Committee considered a report providing an update on the position of Luing Primary School following a review of the temporary closure by officers, and agreed that the temporary closure be extended for a further year, to be reviewed at this meeting. 3.4 The purpose of this report is to update the Community Services Committee on the present position of Luing Primary School, so that its continued temporary closure remains subject to at least annual review. 4.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 4.1 It is recommended that the Community Services Committee agree that: 4.1.1 Luing Primary School continues to be temporarily closed, and that the building be retained for one year on a care and maintenance basis. 4.1.2 Officers will conduct a further review of the School’s temporary closure ahead of the Committee’s March 2027 meeting. 4.1.3 The community shall have pre-arranged access to the building to promote any community functions during the period of continued temporary closure. Page 118
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3 5.0 DETAIL 5.1 Since the Committee’s March 2025 decision to continue the temporary closure of Luing Primary School, officers have been keeping the circumstances of the School under review. Below are the officers’ findings in relation to a range of relevant factors. 5.2 Pupil Numbers/School Roll Projections Year Predicted roll 2023 3 2024 4 2025 5 2026 6 2027 6 2028 6 5.2.1 The above table outlines the number of school aged children who reside in Luing Primary School’s catchment area but who attend Easdale Primary School (2023 - 2025 figures). The figures for 2026- 2028 are the projected numbers of children of school age who will reside within the Luing Primary School catchment area. 5.3 Condition of the Building and Costs of Continued Mothballing 5.3.1 The school building whilst unoccupied, will continue to deteriorate over time. As the Luing Primary School building is of a significant age, officers also expect ongoing maintenance to be required in order to preserve the fabric of the building. Current maintenance costs for 2025/26 are in the region of £12.5k. If the School was to be re-opened, then a full building inspection would be conducted. Last year’s reported reinstatement costs uplifted to reflect industry standard price increases would be in the region of £45,000, however, recent storms have necessitated remedial works to the external building fabric. Continued exposure to severe weather conditions may lead to further deterioration, resulting in additional costs for repairs and maintenance. 5.4 Community Requests to Use the School Building 5.4.1 In the period since temporary closure commenced, there have been no formal requests from local community groups to use the School building. Officers anticipate that this may mainly be due to the fact that there are already several community spaces situated on the island. 5.5 Activity of Local Community Groups on Luing in the Intervening Period 5.5.1 Luing Community Council provided officers with an update on potential developments on the island. Whilst there have been no new housing developments built or proposed since the statutory school closure Page 119
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4 consultation, concluded in 2024, the Isle of Luing Community Trust is pursuing an asset transfer with Argyll and Bute Council to secure a building plot to build two to three affordable homes. Expressions of interest to the Scottish Land Fund and the Rural and Island Housing Fund have been submitted. Tenders from design teams are being assessed with the aim of securing feasibility/design funding in early 2026. Together, the Trust and Luing Community Council have continued the ‘Homes for Luing’ campaign, targeting two potential sources of housing for new island residents: empty or under-used houses (40% or more of the island’s houses) which could be made available as seasonal or longer-term rentals or even for sale; and building plots, for self-build housing. 5.5.2 The Cullipool slate quarry enterprise, being established by the Isle of Luing Community Trust in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Government and Argyll and Bute Council, made significant progress in 2025. £1.75 million of Regeneration Capital Grant Fund was secured, along with engagement of a new Development Manager, enabling preparatory work to start. Working closely with the Council, an Invitation to Tender was issued in December 2025 for the quarry setup and a production building. This work is targeted to start in 2026, as well as staff recruitment and training. Up to seven new full-time jobs are expected to be created by the slate enterprise, bringing more working-age people to live and work on Luing. 5.6 School Transport Arrangements to Easdale Primary School 5.6.1 A return door-to-door transport service from individual addresses on Luing runs to Easdale Primary School. This service was reintroduced around May 2024. The Luing taxi transport is a Council vehicle which can accommodate five children. Currently, five pupils use this service. The School Transport team will continue to keep the uptake of the service, and capacity of the transportation, under review. 5.6.2 The driver collects children from their homes, drives to the ferry, travels over on the Cuan ferry and drops the children at Easdale Primary School. At the end of the school day, the taxi collects the children from school at 15.30 to take the 4pm ferry back over to Luing. 5.6.3 The duration of the journey from Luing to Easdale Primary School has been highlighted as an area of concern by parents over the course of previous reviews, but this has, perhaps been alleviated by the ease of the school transport arrangements in place which are used by all pupils living on Luing. Feedback from the Council’s School Transport team is positive and they are confident that this enhanced service is working well. 5.6.4 In addition, a West Coast Motors service bus still runs to connect from the Cuan Ferry to Easdale Primary School. This is available on all Page 120
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5 school days for any family with a Luing postcode. 5.7 Parent/Pupil Feedback on the Current Education Arrangements 5.7.1 Whilst Luing Primary School remains temporarily closed, pupils residing in the School’s catchment area have been rezoned temporarily to Easdale Primary School. Parents of children who reside on Luing who attend Easdale Primary School are generally satisfied with the quality of education that their children receive there. Parents attend ‘Learning Together’ sessions and assemblies each term during the school day. They provide positive feedback and enjoy seeing how their children are learning. 6.0 CONCLUSION 6.1 As the above update does not indicate that a significant change in the School’s circumstances has occurred (as per Section 2A of the 2010 Act), it is proposed that Members agree to the continuation of the temporary closure of Luing Primary School for a further year, and that a report will be presented to the Committee in March 2027 reviewing the position of the School after that further year has elapsed. 7.0 IMPLICATIONS 7.1 Policy – None 7.2 Financial – If the continued temporary closure of the School is agreed, there will be costs associated with the upkeep and maintenance of the School premises. 7.3 Legal – The provisions of the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 will subsequently apply if the Authority later decide to formulate a relevant proposal under that Act in order to assess and ultimately determine the future of Luing Primary School. 7.4 HR – None 7.5 Customer Service – None at present 7.6 Risk – None at present 7.8 Fairer Duty Scotland 7.9 Equalities – protected characteristics 7.10 Consumer Duty – None at present 7.11 Island Communities – It is acknowledged that Luing is an island community and the provisions of the Islands (Scotland) Act 2018 will apply if any policy or service changes are to be proposed in due course. Page 121
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6 7.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing – Under this legislation the Council are required to act in the best interests of the child. In the event of any future engagement, pupils’ views will be sought (via their parents/carers where necessary). Priority has been given to maintaining the right to education for children residing on Luing during the period that the School remains temporarily closed (Article 28). DOUGLAS HENDRY Executive Director with responsibility for Education COUNCILLOR KIERON GREEN Policy Lead for Education For further information please contact: Jennifer Crocket Chief Education Officer/ Head of Education-Wellbeing, Inclusion and Achievement Jennifer.crocket@argyll-bute.gov.uk / 01546604288 Wendy Brownlie Head of Education: Performance and Improvement wendy.brownlie@argyll-bute.gov.uk / 01369707118 Brendan Docherty Education Manager brendan.docherty@argyll-bute.gov.uk / 01436657643 28th January 2026 Page 122
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE EDUCATION SERVICE 5 MARCH 2026 EXTERNAL EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTION REPORT 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This report provides details of all external education establishment inspection reports received across Argyll and Bute Education Service during the period December 2025 to March 2026. 1.2 It is recommended that the Community Services Committee notes: a) The contents of this report; b) This quarterly report will be presented on an ongoing basis to the Community Services Committee detailing all establishment inspections conducted and published by Education Scotland within that period, and c) That Ward members will receive copies of school inspection reports for schools within their area as published by Education Scotland. Page 123 Agenda Item 10
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ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE EDUCATION 5 MARCH 2026 EXTERNAL EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTION REPORT 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 This report provides details of all external education establishment inspection reports received across Argyll and Bute Education Service during December 2025 to March 2026. 2.2 As required for the National Improvement Framework, HMIE report on and provide grades for the following Quality Indicators (QIs) as part of full model inspections (which typically take place over a full school week): QI 1.3 – leadership of change; QI 2.3 – learning, teaching and assessment; QI 3.1 – ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion; and QI 3.2 – raising attainment and achievement In addition, they include a focus on the following themes from other QIs: QI 2.2 curriculum: learning pathways QI 2.7 partnerships: parental engagement 2.3 Short model inspections (typically over two and a half days) focus on two QIs: QI 2.3 – learning, teaching and assessment; and QI 3.2 – raising attainment and achievement HMIE continue to have a focus on safeguarding in every inspection. An inspection advice note issued in January 2024 advised that Inspectors intended to strengthen the evidence they gather about relationships and behaviour in schools and settings during inspections notified from week beginning 15 January 2024. This evidence is being gathered in a range of ways, including through an updated child protection and safeguarding evaluation form. In addition to the inspection advice note, schools have been provided with supporting local authority guidance. Page 124
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2.4 From September 2025, in inspections of early learning and childcare settings, HMIE use the QIs from the new ‘Quality Improvement Framework for the Early Learning and Childcare Sectors’1. 3.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 3.1 It is recommended that the Community Services Committee notes: a) The contents of this report; b) This quarterly report will be presented on an ongoing basis to the Community Services Committee detailing all establishment inspections conducted and published by Education Scotland within that period, and c) That Ward members will receive copies of school inspection reports for schools within their area as published by Education Scotland. 4.0 DETAIL – School Inspections 4.1 Tighnabruaich Primary School and ELC was inspected the week beginning 17th November using a short model inspection. The school received positive feedback from the Managing Inspector with specific reference to: The acting senior leaders are making a positive difference to the life of the school. They work well with the enthusiastic, caring and motivated staff team. Together, they have created a supportive and positive learning environment. As a result, children are encouraged to do their best and aim high in their learning. Children are articulate, polite and welcoming to visitors. They are proud of their school and their achievements in learning about children’s rights. They have creative ideas to help their school to continue to improve. Children demonstrate empathy for others. They have a strong awareness of a range of global issues and are compelled to take action to help. They are developing important citizenship and leadership skills through their work to raise funds for humanitarian charities. The ELC was inspected jointly by HMIe and the Care Inspectorate using the new Quality Improvement framework for the Early Learning and Childcare sectors. The ELC received positive feedback with specific reference to: Staff know children and families well. They demonstrate positive, warm and kind relationships with all children. As a result, children and families feel welcome in the setting. Acting senior leaders and staff need to develop an appropriate planning and assessment cycle to ensure breadth, depth, challenge and progress across the curriculum. This needs to be a balanced approach, linked to children’s interests and ideas. The acting headteacher and acting depute headteacher had both made a positive impact on the service through their focus on the service’s vision, values and aims, and their commitment to delivering the 1 Quality Improvement Framework for the Early Learning and Childcare Sectors Page 125
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best outcomes for children, families and staff. Staff remained committed to getting it right for every child and worked collaboratively to ensure children's needs were met as consistently as possible. The team had considered all children’s needs through developing an inclusive environment to support children to feel safe, secure, and included. Due to the ‘weak’ evaluations in two of the seven areas inspected for the ELC, the ELC only will receive a return visit to monitor progress made in these areas (see Appendix 1). The published letter and Summary of Inspection Findings (SIF) are available on HMIE’s Website using the following link: Tighnabruaich Primary School | Inspection Report | His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland 4.2 A summary of all external school inspection audit reports published by Education Scotland across Argyll and Bute Education Service establishments during the period October 2025 to January 2026 is provided in Appendix 1. 4.3 A summary of the inspection outcomes per establishment detailing strengths and areas for improvement is provided in Appendix 2. 5.0 CONCLUSION 5.1 In summary, currently one published report is available from the inspection detailed above at 4.1 which took place during the period of October 2025 to January 2026. 5.2 The Education Service will continue to use the outcomes of establishment inspections to work collaboratively with our Head Teachers to target support and challenge to secure improvement for our children and young people. 6.0 IMPLICATIONS 6.1 Policy – The Standards in Scotland’s Schools etc. Act 2000 places a duty on Education Authorities to provide children and young people with school education and (in terms of raising standards) requires Authorities to endeavor to secure improvement in the quality of that school education. 6.2 Financial – None 6.3 Legal – None 6.4 HR – None 6.5 Customer Service – The outcome of establishment inspections of the Education Page 126
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Service of Argyll and Bute Council may significantly enhance or detract from the Council’s reputation and attractiveness as an area to work and live in. 6.6 Risk – Reputational risk to the Education Service following a weak elements in ELC report. 6.7 Climate Change - None 6.8 Fairer Scotland Duty: – None 6.9 Equalities - protected characteristics – None 6.10 Consumer Duty – None 6.11 Island Communities - None 6.12 Children’s Rights and Wellbeing Article 28 – I have the right to an education Article 29 – I have the right to an education which develops my personality, talents and abilities Douglas Hendry - Executive Director with responsibility for Education Kieron Green - Policy Lead for Education Jennifer Crocket Chief Education Officer Head of Education: Wellbeing, Inclusion and Achievement Jennifer.Crocket@argyll-bute.gov.uk Wendy Brownlie Head of Education: Performance and Improvement Wendy.Brownlie@argyll-bute.gov.uk For further information please contact:- Marianne Docherty, Education Officer – Quality Improvement and Scrutiny Marianne.Docherty2@argyll-bute.gov.uk January 2026 Appendices Appendix 1 - Overview of Inspection Outcomes Appendix 2 - Summary of Inspection Outcomes Page 127
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Appendix 1 - Overview of Inspection Outcomes Leadership of Change Learning, Teaching and Assessment Ensuring Wellbeing, Equality and Inclusion Raising Attainment and Achievement Establishment Sector Date of Inspection 1.3 2.3 3.1 3.2 Tighnabruaich Primary School November 2025 Satisfactory Satisfactory Shared Framework – Quality Indicators Establishment Leadership and management of staff and resources Staff skills, knowledge, values and deployment Learning, teaching and assessment Nurturing, care and support Children’s progress Playing, learning, and developing Children thrive and develop in quality spaces Tighnabruaich ELC Good Satisfactory/Adequate Weak Satisfactory/Adequate Weak Satisfactory/Adequate Good The Six-point Scale for Inspection Grading Excellent 6 Very Good 5 Good 4 Satisfactory 3 Weak 2 Unsatisfactory 1 Page 128
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Appendix 2 - Summary of Inspection Outcomes Report Title: Tighnabruaich Primary School and Pre-5 Unit Inspection Agency: Education Scotland Key Findings: • The acting senior leaders are making a positive difference to the life of the school. They work well with the enthusiastic, caring and motivated staff team. Together, they have created a supportive and positive learning environment. As a result, children are encouraged to do their best and aim high in their learning. • Children are articulate, polite and welcoming to visitors. They are proud of their school and their achievements in learning about children’s rights. They have creative ideas to help their school to continue to improve. • Children demonstrate empathy for others. They have a strong awareness of a range of global issues and are compelled to take action to help. They are developing important citizenship and leadership skills through their work to raise funds for humanitarian charities. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the acting headteacher and a representative from Argyll and Bute Council: • Continue with plans to develop high quality approaches to learning, teaching and assessment, setting lessons and activities at the right level to challenge and support all children. • Continue to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy to ensure that all children can reach their potential. • Continue with plans to give children responsibility to lead their own learning and to be even more involved in improving their school. Date of Inspection: November 2025 Lead Officer to take forward improvement: Jodie Blincow – Acting Headteacher Central Officer to support improvement: Susan Galloway – Education Manager Page 129
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Community Services Committee Work Plan 2025 - 2026 This is an outline plan to facilitate forward planning of reports to the Community Service Committee. Date Paper Designation Lead Service/ Officer Regularity of occurrence/ consideration Comment 5 March 2026 Police Scotland Argyll & Bute Performance Summary Report – Reporting Period: April 2025 – December 2025 Police Scotland Quarterly Scottish Fire and Rescue Service – Argyll & Bute Performance Scrutiny Group 2025-26 Q3 Scrutiny Report Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Quarterly Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership – Performance Report – FQ2 2025/26 Argyll & Bute HSCP Quarterly Achievement of Curriculum for Excellence Levels 2024/2025 Education Final Attainment and Achievement Report Education Luing Primary School -Temporary Closure Review Education External Education Establishment Inspection Report Education Quarterly 4 June 2026 Police Scotland Argyll & Bute Performance Summary Report – Reporting Period: April 2025 – March 2026 Police Scotland Quarterly Scottish Fire and Rescue Service – Argyll & Bute Performance Scrutiny Group 2025-26 Q4 Scrutiny Report Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Quarterly Page 131 Agenda Item 11
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Community Services Committee Work Plan 2025 - 2026 Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership – Performance Report – FQ3 2025/26 Argyll & Bute HSCP Quarterly Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 Furnace Primary School Education External Education Establishment Inspection Report Education Quarterly Future Reports – dates to be determined The Expansion of Funded Early Years Learning and Childcare in Scotland – Argyll and Bute Early Learning and Childcare Updated Delivery Plan Education Care Experienced Children and Young People Education Argyll & Bute Health & Social Care Partnership – Annual Report Argyll & Bute HSCP Annually Argyll and Bute Annual Education Plan Education Annually in August Live Argyll Monitoring and Performance Report & Live Argyll Annual Report Commercial Services/Live Argyll Annually Gaelic Language Plan Progress Report Customer Support Services Annually in August Scottish Attainment Challenge Education Education Refresh Strategy Education Strone Primary School - Mothballing Education Scottish Languages Act 2025 – Update Education/Customer Support Services Tobermory 2-18 Campus – Update and Next Steps Education Page 132