Agenda item

The Panel considered a presentation of Stephen Tracey, Corporate Equality and Strategy Manager (for copy of presentation see file of minutes).

Referring to the looked after figures for 2001/02, the Chair pointed out that, at that time, the Durham rate was comparatively low and he asked whether the reasons for this were known. The Corporate Equality and Strategy Manager replied that he would make enquires to obtain historical information.

Councillor Jewell asked how the data is recorded and whether this is like for like across the country.  The Corporate Equality and Strategy Manager assured the Panel that data is comparative with strict parameters in place. He added that all local authorities are required to return their figures at the same time.

The Chair referred to the number of children accommodated under Section 20 Children Act 1989 and asked the Legal Services Manager to provide further information on this.  The Legal Services Manager confirmed that parents can voluntarily allow the local authority to accommodate their child under Section 20 of the Children Act 1989.  This allows the local authority to work with families under the Public Law Outline whilst assessments are completed, without issuing care proceedings, however, case law has been critical of local authorities who rely on Section 20, leading to delays for the child.  The Chair requested that the Corporate Equalities and Strategy Manager gather data on the length of time children have been subject to Section 20.

Councillor Darkes referred to the percentage change in the looked after rate from 2014 to 2018 with the figure for Durham indicating a 33% increase, whilst the figure for Newcastle has decreased and he asked whether examples of good practice are shared.  C Bell, Operations Manager, confirmed that good practice is shared through Partners in Practice and through formal arrangements with South Tyneside and North Yorkshire.

Councillor McKeon referred to the national and local policy drivers, observing the significant spikes in 2012 and 2017 following serious case reviews and asked about lessons learned as a result of these reviews. Members were informed that the serious case reviews are public documents and they will therefore be available to view.  Members wishing to have copies of the documents were requested to contact the Senior Partnership Officer. Councillor McKeon referred to the London effect and the decrease in the number of looked after children and asked if London has suffered from the same problems as the north east in relation to the recruitment and retention of social workers. The Operations Manager responded that the recruitment and retention of social workers is a challenge throughout the country.  The Head of Early Help, Inclusion and Vulnerable Children advised that Durham is now actively recruiting social workers. 

Councillor Jewell referred to management best practice in relation to controlling entry and encouraging exit.  C Bell confirmed that the process for entering care is robust with decisions taken to place a child in care being agreed by senior managers.  Similarly, with regard to exiting the care system, a number of panels are in place to scrutinise and monitor the process.

Councillor Robinson referred to the decrease in the London figures and asked whether the wide geographical area for dispersal of asylum seekers has had an impact on the figures.  The Corporate Equality and Scrutiny Manager said this is not the case as the London authorities would remain the responsible authority with the figures showing as their looked after children. The Corporate Equality and Scrutiny Manager informed the Panel that a detailed report on the London effect is available on request.

Councillor Scott commented that figures only provide part of the picture adding that although Durham has a comparatively high number of looked after children, that is not necessarily an indication that Durham is performing any worse than other areas. 

The Panel commented that other factors should be taken into consideration including that Durham has a higher population than neighbouring authorities and the recent restructure of Durham Children’s Services may indicate that we are indeed looking after the right young people, at the right time, in the right way to ensure they are able to achieve the best possible outcomes.

The Head of Early Help, Assessment and Safeguarding pointed out that the number of looked after children has stabilised over the last year and this will continue to be monitored.