ADULT learning will be overhauled in Southend after a college fell into “poor financial health” and needed a council bail out.

Southend Adult Community College is now being supported by a series of cash loans from Southend Council and has had financial restrictions imposed.

The college is a council service but has been run by its own governing body for a number of years, but is in “poor financial health” according to a council report.

But Southend Council is committed to the college and has proposed a number of changes to the way it is run - including changing the governing body.

Anne Jones, councillor responsible for children and learning, said: “The college has a long track record of providing courses and learning that improve mental health and physical wellbeing, reduces social isolation and provides skills for those in greatest need. For some it provides a much need lifeline and boost.

“The college is also delivering much needed learning both virtually and face to face to those from disadvantaged groups, the vulnerable and those facing unemployment.

“It is felt that by making this change in governance, the college can optimise public funds and align more closely with our stated priorities and ambition.

“An advisory board would provide relevant support and challenge to allow the college to both stabilise its financial position and prepare for delivering economic growth and innovation.”

It is being recommend to councillors that the existing governing body is changed to allow a more direct relationship with the council and the creation of an advisory board to support recovery, growth, innovation, employability skills and learning in Southend.

The cabinet agenda states an advisory board would be able to support improved overall financial health.

Southend Council’s cabinet will discuss proposals for the Southend Adult Community College next week.

The college failed to secure a non-levy apprenticeship contract in the 2017/2018 financial year resulting in a £109,000 loss of income.

The college also saw a sharp decline in learners working towards vocational qualifications due to staff changes - leading to a decrease in tuition fee income.