Agenda item

Officers introduced the Cared For Children & Young People Strategy, noting that it formalised existing practices and provided a clear and accessible framework for improving outcomes for children in care and care experienced young people. The strategy set out the Council’s responsibilities, priorities, and actions to strengthen support for young people, particularly through their journey in care and transition into adulthood. Officers emphasised the vision that every child and young person in care should have the same opportunities as any other child, with a focus on stability, well-being, and successful transitions into adulthood.

Officers highlighted the importance of language, noting that terminology had been updated in response to feedback from young people. For example, the terms “cared for children” and “care experienced young people” were now used, and references to “cases” and “placements” had been replaced with “children” and “homes.” The strategy had been co-produced with young people, partners, and professionals, ensuring that their voices were central to its development.

Members welcomed the strategy and its ambitions, particularly the involvement of young people in its development.

Members asked how the Council inspired ambition and achievement among cared for children and whether this was driven by foster carers, corporate initiatives, or a collective approach. Officers advised that promoting aspiration was a collective responsibility, involving everyone in the young person’s life, including carers, teachers, and the wider Council. Officers described various initiatives, such as employing care experienced young people, involving them in events and interview panels, and providing opportunities to develop skills and independence. The Virtual School and Participation Team also played key roles in supporting aspirations, both academic and vocational.

Members noted the change in language and asked what alternative terminology young people preferred. Officers explained that while some young people disliked some of the terminology, some phrases (such as looked after children) had to be used for statutory and legal purposes. The Council continued to work with young people to refine language and ensure it reflected their preferences, with the strategy remaining in draft form to accommodate ongoing feedback.

Members asked about youth justice and reoffending. Officers reported that significant work had been undertaken to reduce reoffending, including diversionary activities and partnership working. The Council had established high-risk panels to collectively plan for young people known to youth justice services, focusing on early intervention and prevention. The creation of a specialist adolescent service was also highlighted as a key development in supporting at-risk young people.

Members commended the comprehensive nature of the strategy and stressed the importance of regular review, suggesting that the voices of young people should be heard more frequently than annually. Officers confirmed that regular checks and balances were in place, including independent reviews and ongoing engagement with young people. 

Members also asked about the long-term outcomes for care experienced young people after leaving care. The Council was committed to supporting care experienced young people into independence through pathway plans, the Staying Close scheme, and ongoing contact and support up to age 25 (and beyond in some cases, such as for those in education). Officers described efforts to maintain relationships and provide guidance, with additional support for those with complex needs and transitions to adult services. It was also important to note that the transition to adulthood started prior to turning 18.

Members highlighted the importance of health and wellbeing, particularly mental health support for care experienced young people, and asked about access to services and partnership working with the NHS. Officers acknowledged the challenges in accessing mental health services and described regular communication with CAMHS and NHS colleagues to promote access. The Council also utilised independent therapeutic services, such as Ask Jan, which provided six counselling sessions for care experienced young people. There were also close relationships with the ICB. Officers emphasised the importance of positive relationships and early intervention, including the use of strengths and difficulties questionnaires to identify needs and to refer young people for additional support, including to MAPS, where needed. The Council maintained a continuum of care, from early intervention to specialist services, and worked closely with health partners to ensure timely support.

Members commended officers; noted the report; and noted that comments would be produced.

RESOLVED: That the Committee:

1. Noted the strategic direction and priorities outlined in the draft strategy; and

2. Delegated comments to the Democratic Services Officer in conjunction with the Chair and in consultation with the Opposition Lead