Agenda item - Corporate Parenting Strategy 2016-19

59.1    This item was introduced by Gerry Brandon, Head of Service, Leaving Care Contact and Social Work.

59.2    The Chair welcomed the strategy, stressing that it is important that looked after children understand that elected members and council officers take seriously their responsibilities as corporate parents.

59.3    Councillor Brown welcomed the strategy and suggested that a link to the strategy be made available to all elected members and council members. This was agreed by other Board members.

59.4    Pinaki Ghoshal told the Board that the strategy reflects young people’s views much more than the previous strategy did. It is also important to remember that this is a citywide strategy, not just for the council.

59.5    Councillor Penn told members that she had visited the 67 Centre to see young people contributing to the strategy. This was a really good example of effective engagement. Cllr Tom Bewick should also be congratulated for all his work in developing the strategy.

59.6    Councillor Penn noted that young people had raised concerns with her about the process of getting referred to Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Ms Brandon responded that this is a recognised issue and is being addressed.

59.7    Councillor Page welcomed the strategy and proposed that it be referred to Full Council for information.

59.8    Graham Bartlett offered his congratulations to the team for an excellent and lucid strategy, which showed particularly good practice in capturing user voices.

59.9    Ms Brandon agreed to feedback the Board’s comments to the Children in Care Council and to thank her team on the Board’s behalf.

59.10  RESOLVED: That the Corporate Parenting Strategy be approved; and that the strategy be referred for information to Full Council.