The report of the Strategic Director for Children’s Services (Document “V”) provides an overview regarding the independent advocacy service that enables children and young people to be supported and heard in matters that affect them.

Recommended –

The panel are respectfully recommended to note the progress made in this area and support the ongoing work in this service particularly with regards to advocating the Independent Visitors Service.

(Amandip Johal – 01274 431620/07773 248040)

Resolved –

(1)       That the report be welcomed.

(2)       That more information be provided to Members so that additional appropriate people within the Local Authority could become ‘Independent Visitors’

Action: Strategic Director of Children’s Services

The report of the Strategic Director of Children’s Services (Document “V”) was presented to the Panel to provide an overview of the advocacy service which enabled children and young people to be supported and heard in matters that affected them.

The report presented covered the period from February 2020 to the present day and included updates on the recommendations made in the report which was presented to the Panel in 2019.

The report concluded that it was critical that the feedback and issues raised were listened to and considered to ensure that the service was effective in supporting good outcomes.

Members then had an opportunity to ask questions. Details of these and the responses given are as below:

·         A Member asked about the progress being made as the situation with COVID-19 continues to maximise engagement.  Officers advised that the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) contract was overseen and that avenues were being explored to engage young people.  The Service was asking how young people want to engage and this was under continuous review.

·         In relation to Independent Visitors, Members would like more information on the role. 

Resolved –

(1)       the report on progress be welcomed.

(2)       More information be provided to Members so that additional appropriate people within the Local Authority could become ‘Independent Visitors’

Action: Strategic Director of Children’s Services