Issue - items at meetings - Corporate Parenting Strategy Framework

1.                  That the Board agree to the proposals for the development of the Corporate parenting Strategy.

53.1         The Board considered a report of the Director of Children’s Services outlining progress in work undertaken in developing the next stage of Brighton & Hove’s Corporate Parenting Strategy.

53.2         A Member noted the high proportion of looked after children over the age of 15 and enquired what measures were being undertaken to address issues in these age groups and the work undertaken in circumstances of exclusion.

53.3         The officers of the report responded that there was a robust co-operation in place with schools and educational psychologists to support those excluded within which continuous improvement was sought. With regard to those over 16, there were several systems in place including personal and financial packages, the retention of a social worker until the age of 21 and every care-leaver designated an Aim Higher Sussex co-ordinator.

53.4         A Member asked if there were any forums of that age-group that may be able to help give information to the Trust. The Board were informed that there were groups such as the 16+ Advisory Group but also an established forum with members who had been through the system that offered help and advice to those currently in it.

53.5         Members asked for more information surrounding the financial implications of looked after children.

53.6         The officer of the report elaborated on the benefit of bringing together the Board Members resources and co-operation. He explained that the largest employers in the city were part of the Board and that an increased scope of the apprenticeship scheme currently in operation would be of huge benefit.

53.7         Board Members enquired on the on-going developments in the apprenticeship scheme.

53.8         The report author explained that the scheme was currently looking at ways to broaden the access and options of the apprenticeship and giving wider exposure to numerous occupations. There were also discussions continuing on the intention to ‘fast-track’ looked after children on to the scheme.

53.9         RESOLVED- That the Board agree to the proposals for the development of the Corporate Parenting Strategy.