Agenda item

Karen Robb, Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence, delivered a powerpoint presentation on the number of looked after children in care and their characteristics (for copy see file of minutes). 

The Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence, informed the Panel that the number of looked after children had significantly increased and the current figure stood at 804.  Durham has more looked after children than neighbouring authorities and a ‘deep dive’ analysis is being carried out, the findings of which would be shared with the Panel in due course.  The 5-9 and 10-15 year olds represent the majority of looked after children and 10-15 year olds are the group most likely to spend five years or more in the care system.  The number of under 1s in care has increased with a number of families having more than one child placed in care.  

The Chairman commented that it would be interesting to have further analysis of the age demographics and how these compare with neighbouring authorities.  In response to a question from Councillor Darkes as to whether areas of the County have a greater number of looked after children, the Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence responded that children living in the east of the County are more likely to enter the care system.  The Chairman stated that a mapping exercise would be useful and the Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence agreed, saying this would also help to inform the Service as to where resources should be targeted. 

Councillor McKeon asked why children enter the care system.  The Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence responded that a large number of new-borns are removed from families where older children have been removed due to safeguarding concerns.  Most of the cases are due to parental neglect (often involving alcohol or drugs) and physical abuse. There are several reasons why older children enter the care system including behavioural problems and criminal behaviour.