Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services which presented the Corporate Parenting Panel Annual Report for 2019 – 20 (for copy see file of minutes). 

In presenting the report, the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services highlighted the significant progress made by the Panel which was recognised in the Ofsted Inspection carried out in September 2019; the Panel’s nomination for a Local Government Chronicle award, and, the important role of the Children in Care Council.

Councillor Jewell, Chair of the Corporate Parenting Panel, thanked all those involved in the work of the Panel and he explained the role of the young people of the Children in Care Council.  Young people from the Children in Care Council  participate in Corporate Parenting Panel meetings and this provides a real insight into the challenges faced by looked after children and care leavers.  For example, the young people encouraged Corporate Parenting Panel members and officers to participate in the ‘Care Leavers Challenge’, which challenges participants to live on a budget of £57.90 a week, which is the amount of money care leavers who are not in employment receive.  The input of the young people is important to inform how the Council can provide support. The young people are also involved in training sessions for foster carers, social workers and teachers, providing their perspective. 

Councillor Jewell referred to some of the priorities for the future which include improving the local offer through looking into the provision of subsidised transport and the possibility of extending the ‘Freedom Card’, which is a discount scheme for shops and leisure.  In addition, some of the young people are undergoing training to become ‘Young Inspectors’ for children’s residential homes, which would encourage them to share their views onthe services provided and he thanked the Commissioning Team for the residential homes inspection process. 

In conclusion, Councillor Jewell paid tribute to Terry Collins, Chief Executive, for all his hard work in supporting and championing the cause of looked after children and care leavers.

The Chair thanked Councillor Jewell and the Corporate Parenting Panel for their work during the year. 

Councillor Gunn commended the report and thanked the Corporate Parenting Panel members for their work, particularly for ensuring the young people are actively involved and that their voice is reflected in the work.  She acknowledged the recent challenging times during the pandemic and she thanked those who had worked remotely to continue the dialogue with the Children in Care Council.  Councillor Gunn outlined some of the financial support developed with looked after children, including council tax exemptions, the winter fuel allowance, the ‘Freedom Card’ and the ‘Drive’ project, which provides assistance to looked after young people with the cost of driving lessons.  

The Cabinet congratulated the Corporate Parenting Panel on being shortlisted for a Local Government Chronicle award, and wished the Panel well for the final award ceremony on 28^th October. 

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.