Issue - meetings

To consider a report from the Head of Commissioning.

The Head of Commissioning updated the Board on the Placement Sufficiency Strategy. The strategy for children and young people was based on a rights-based approach to reducing the number of children in care which was adopted by the Council in 2019.

The strategy also outlined the targets for reducing the number of children in care in Dorset and increasing the number of homes available for children in care in Dorset. 

Members made the following observations:-

·         Noted that the strategy was approved by Cabinet on 19 January 2021.

·         Expressed concern regarding 16 year olds living with minimal supervision; Family care was the ambition.

·         Reconsider the importance of bringing children back into the Dorset area.

·         Requested more information regarding young adults. No figures for the ages between 21-25.

·         How were “the Strengthening of Services Plan”, “the Children and Young Peoples Plan” and “the Corporate Parenting Strategy” going to be monitored and which committee would be responsible for scrutinising them? In response, the Executive Director for People – Children confirmed that scrutiny committees would consider the delivery and the outcomes of the work; plus regular updates at the Corporate Parenting Board and potentially reporting to Health and Well-being Board when required.

·         Members noted that the annual report on Care Leavers would be considered by the board at a future meeting.

·         Expressed concern about the lack of foster carers; discussions were on-going with colleagues in respect of housing, the building better lives project and the local plan consultation. Plus consideration of opportunities for capital bid projects where appropriate.