To approve the Staying Put policy and procedures.

The Cabinet Member for Children and Young People introduced the report which focuses on a proposed strategy to keep young people in foster care beyond the age of 18 where it would improve their life opportunities and wellbeing.

The Head of Looked After Children presented the key points of the strategy which seeks to remedy previous issues regarding access to employment, finance and avoiding offending. The strategy extends the role of the corporate parent to provide further support in recognition that not all 18 year olds are ready to be fully adult, thus representing a vulnerable group as they make the transition into adulthood.

Each year there is a small number of young people in fostering who are affected by these issues. The strategy involves additional expenditure on supported lodging for these people plus greater in-house provision and oversight.    

The Group Leader for the Liberal Democrats commented that this is a positive strategy. This was echoed by the Chair of the General Overview and Scrutiny Committee, recognising the need to support those young people who need to continue to remain in foster care whilst they make the transition into adulthood.

The Deputy Leader expressed support for the strategy although commenting on its title. The Head of Looked After Children explained that this was a national campaign which could take on a local title.

RESOLVED:

That the Staying Put policy and procedures be approved and implemented with immediate effect.