Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services concerning The Safeguarding and Quality Assurance Service.

The Head of Safeguarding and Quality Assurance presented the key points of the report. They explained that in April 2024, the Departmental Leadership Team (DLT) approved a programme of senior leadership visits to independent care providers. Over the past year, six such visits were conducted, covering 22 children and young people—representing 39% of the City’s children in care and care leavers. A particular focus was placed on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), who are often placed at a distance from the City due to the specialist nature of their care.

The visits generally found positive outcomes, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of the children’s needs. However, one provider was found to be offering less satisfactory services. Although the provider responded constructively to feedback, the City decided to cease using their services and arranged a planned move for the affected young person. The visits generated a range of recommendations, both individual and service-wide, which are tracked through monthly quality assurance and commissioning review meetings. Officers emphasised that this dual approach ensures robust oversight and a clear understanding of the lived experiences of children in care.

In response to questions, Officers confirmed that while most children are placed within Greater London, those requiring specialist residential services may be placed further afield, such as in Norfolk. Transition planning for children with SEND begins at age 14, and while some may return to the City if appropriate resources are available, others may remain elsewhere depending on their long-term needs and preferences. The City works closely with families and adult social care partners to determine the best outcomes.

A further question was raised regarding a property issue mentioned on page 90 of the report. Laura noted that the issue, concerning a fence at a large country estate, was in the process of being resolved at the time of the last commissioning review. Officers committed to following up to confirm its resolution.

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.