Agenda item

The Panel considered a report and presentation of Mark Gurney, Strategic Manager for Child Protection and Disability which explained the journey of children and young people into the looked after system (for copy of report and presentation see file of minutes).

In response to a question from Councillor Makepeace, the Strategic Manager for Child Protection and Disability informed the Panel that the authority has responsibility for care leavers up to the age of 25.

Cllr Richardson observed the significant rise in the number of number of looked after children over the years adding that the ability to manage this increasing workload was testament to the hard work of the staff. 

Cllr Reed asked how many young people between the ages of 18 and 25 are currently being supported. The Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence replied that over 200 care leavers between the ages of 18 and 25 are currently being supported and only 2 or 3 care leavers have chosen not to maintain contact with the service.

Cllr Grant expressed concern at impersonal terminology used during meetings and in publications which may lead to young people feeling like commodities.  The Strategic Manager for Child Protection and Disability agreed that this is an issue which should be borne in mind and this terminology should be reflected on.

Cllr Crathorne spoke positively about her recent visit to the MASH centre and asked whether the centre had led to improvements.  The Strategic Manager for Child Protection and Disability responded that the MASH centre has provided a valuable pool of information which has not only helped to speed-up the process but it has also been an indicator of unmet need. 

In response to a question from Cllr Makepeace, the Strategic Manager for Looked After and Permanence advised that the service is supporting 11 asylum seekers.

Cllr Gunn praised the work of the MASH centre and indicated that a visit is being arranged in January.  All Councillors are being encouraged to attend the visit as part of their corporate parenting role.

Resolved:

The Panel:

                      i.        Noted the contents of the presentation.

                    ii.        Commented on the contents of the presentation.

                   iii.        Indicated if more information is required from the service.