Theme: Education, Employment and Training
Minutes:
The following update was provided by the young people of the Children in Care Council:
· The Winter Wonderland event was a great success despite the weather which led to a change of venue at short-notice. The Head of Children’s Social Care informed the Panel that this was one of a series of events organised in conjunction with Children’s Services, to celebrate foster caring.
· Young people are working on an arts project with the County Durham Community Foundation and Full Circle to refresh therapy rooms across the county, to make them more engaging. Another initiative to encourage the young people to participate in the arts is taking place in February, with a visit to a gallery.
· A meeting was held with the Virtual School in January and a template has been produced by the young people, to provide them with more information on the Designated Teacher role and what pupil premium monies can be used for.
· Panel Members were encouraged to promote Care Day which will be held on 21st February, to celebrate children and young people with care experience. RicFlo, a care experienced rapper from London will be attending the event.
· Engagement work is continuing with the Independent Reviewing Officers and a young person has been appointed as the IRO Champion.
· Work is progressing on the discount card for looked after children and young people. The Head of Children’s Social Care updated the Panel that the service is exploring ways to develop the Freedom Card to make it more relevant and an update on progress will be provided at a future Panel meeting.