The report of the Interim Strategic Director, Place (Document “S”) provides information on the work of The Department of Place support and activities for Looked After Children and young people across a wide range of services.

Recommended –

The views of Panel Members are sought on the range of activities and actions outlined in Paragraph 2 of this report and on areas for further development.

                                                                        (Jason Longhurst – 01274 434748)

Resolved –

(1)       That a joint report from Children’s Services and Place be presented by the appropriate Assistant Directors to the Committee to explore cultural access for young people, specifically Children in Care.

(2)       That the joint report as detailed in resolution 1 be added to the work plan.

Action: Interim Strategic Director, Place

The report of the Interim Strategic Director, Place (Document “S”) was presented to the Panel to provide information on the work undertaken by the Department of Place for Looked After Children and young people across the wide range of services.   The report covered both the specifics of the work carried out and the general provision affecting all children such as health, environment and access to culture etc.

Members asked questions in relation to the report and the provision documented.  Details of the questions and responses are set out below:

·           Looked After Children had previously been given free membership to gyms (the Authority’s ClubActive sites) and Members asked whether this was still on-going as well as the possibility of developing the interactive activities provided by ‘JUMP’.  Officers stated that some activities had been affected by COVID but would be discussed with the relevant Assistant Director.

·             A Member asked if Children in Care had any role in determining what activities were included and whether young people, especially in the 11-17 age bracket be able to influence the Playable Places strategy.  Officers advised they were engaging with young people and that a considerable number had been visited to seek their views.  It was felt that young people missed out on cultural opportunities due to cost of tickets and travel etc.

·             A Member also commented that some more detail was needed in relation to the offer on sports and culture as there was not enough information in the report and young people should be included in the City of Culture activities.

·         A reference was made to information in the report which stated that looked after children and young people had access to reduced ticket prices for the Alhambra Theatre and St George’s Hall and whether these were the only concessions currently offered.  Officers advised that an allocation of pantomime tickets had previously been received and gym passes were available but were unaware of any additional offers or concessions.  A joint report on a cultural offer from Children’s Services and Place would be brought back to the Panel on 8^th March 2021.

Resolved –

(1)       That a joint report from Children’s Services and Place be presented by the appropriate Assistant Directors to the Committee to explore cultural access for young people, specifically Children in Care.

(2)       That the joint report as detailed in resolution 1 be added to the work plan.

Action: Interim Strategic Director, Place