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 City of London Safeguarding and Quality Assurance, 2024–25 Participation Annual Report.

It was noted that the participation offer remains open to all individuals currently or previously in care with the City of London who are still receiving support. Efforts to promote engagement include a WhatsApp group, email communications, social worker outreach, notifications to care and accommodation providers, and a dedicated website. Activities are also promoted through commissioning reviews and quality assurance visits.

Given the small number of children in care and the geographical spread, participation is mainly from care leavers, many of whom are unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people. To support inclusion, especially for those with English as a second language, additional preparation time is provided. An apprentice from the virtual school has helped translate materials and create explanatory videos in Arabic, the most common language among the cohort. The group also serves as a space for practising English in a supportive environment.

Monthly engagement opportunities have been prioritised, including online sessions and a supper club. An annual residential trip and holiday activities are also organised, though attendance during holidays is more challenging due to work and varied academic schedules. The cohort is becoming more independent, prompting a review of engagement strategies. This year’s residential trip is scheduled for the end of the month in Ashford, Kent, at a PGL site.

In the past year, there were 123 attendances at Children in Care Council events, a strong turnout given the average cohort size of 55. Feedback has been consistently positive. Looking ahead, there will be a review of the role’s remit and consideration of integrating external service commissioning. Participation may also be expanded through the Families in the City programme and its hub model.

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.