Agenda item

The Head of Service Adopt Coast to Coast presented the 6 monthly Adoption Service report and delivered a presentation on activity from April to September and key priority areas for 2020-21 (for copy of report and presentation see file of minutes).

The Head of Service highlighted the good performance during the challenging period and praised staff for their actions to develop new ways of working, in light of the pandemic.

The Chair thanked the Head of Service for the comprehensive report and he placed on record the Panel’s thanks to staff for implementing the changes which had enabled the Adoption Panels to continue, by being held virtually.

Councillor Richardson asked how the offer in County Durham differs from that of neighbouring authorities.  The Head of Service explained that all local authority adoption services work within the same set of regulations and carry out considered and thorough adoption assessments.  Durham had the opportunity to investigate processes which enable a timelier journey for adopters, and, Adopt Coast to Coast had benefited from learning from the experiences of other regional adoption agencies. 

Resolved:

That the report be noted.