Agenda and draft minutes

The Evacuation procedures were noted.

There were no declarations of interest.

To approve the minutes of the last meeting held on 18 October 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 18 October 2024 were confirmed as a correct record.

Members considered the Virtual School Head Teacher’s Annual Report 2023/2024. A presentation highlighting the main issues in the report was also provided together with case studies.

With regard to the case studies, there was discussion around problems and delays that presented when children in our care were placed in accommodation outside the area, and in privately run homes. It was suggested that when a looked after child was in a council run home, then the council had much more control. It was explained that the council had rigorous processes, in place, to ensure out of area placements and private children’s homes met their responsibilities and the council’s standards.

It was felt that a comprehensive picture of the numbers, and types, of children’s homes in the Borough would be helpful. It was explained that high level data could be compiled and shared.

It was agreed that the Sufficiency Strategy would be presented to the next Board meeting, which included details of work being undertaken to build capacity around placements and how the Council was working with private providers, whilst also pursuing in house provision.

Further discussion and key points:-

·       Public Health would link with Children’s Services to ensure pathways for children in our care were working well e.g. in terms of vaccinations, sexual health etc.

·       It was important to reinstate regular links with Post 16 Education, such as colleges and universities.

·       Members were informed of primary and secondary hubs where children and young people in care were brought together to do an activity, however, it was noted that attendance was dropping and would be reviewed.

·       Any educational concerns that the virtual school had about a child placed out of area would result in significant scrutiny of the educational offer being made available. This was likely to involve visits to the educational establishments concerned.

·       Resources in the Virtual School were limited and there was always concern around funding.

·       The Virtual School had previously looked at taking on an apprentice, who was care experienced, but capacity had been an issue at the time. However, they would consider it in the future.

RESOLVED that the Annual Report and discussion be noted and actioned as appropriate.

See above – Board considered Strategy and Commitments as one item

The Board considered the Forward Plan and agreed to add items, for a future meeting on

·       Transformation work around Early Intervention and Prevention.

·       Special Guardianship Orders

·       Health Assessments (April)

During discussion reference was made to:

Railway 200 and linking with the No Limits Hub

Social Mobility work

Sign up to care leavers covenant

Hearing the carers voice at various meetings

The book tree and use of vouchers