Agenda item

Report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

The Committee received a report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services regarding Update to the Children’s Sufficiency and Commissioning Strategy 2021-2023.

An officer introduced the report stating that an updated strategy plan had been put into place in line with the City children and young people’s plan.  The team were focused on moving to localised options for care leavers.  Unregulated placements would not be used for anyone under the age

of 16. 

The Chair asked for clarification if the City had every housed under 16s in unregulated placements.

An officer confirmed that the City has never placed under 16s in unregulated placements, but they felt it was important to re-confirm the statement.

A member if there was more difficulty finding placements for young people under the age of 16.

An officer responded that there could be some issues in finding arrangements, but the use of spot placements had been helpful in finding immediate providers and options.

The Chair started that they had visited some non-regulated placements and the staff were very knowledgeable and stated that officers always inspected facilities before placements took place.

A member asked how much support young people received once placed into independent living.

An officer responded that this was part of assessment process and that the team created tailored support models for each individual up to age of 25.

RESOLVED, that – the updated Children’s Sufficiency and Commissioning Strategy for Children in Care and Care Leavers in the City of London 2021-2023 be accepted.