1          Introductions were made by all present.

            Feedback from the January 2022 Session

Philip gave feedback from the end of January session held at City Hall.

1.1       Care Leaver Entitlement – The offer is available on the website but it was acknowledged that it was not well advertised and was not sufficiently clear. The content was currently under review and would be completed by the end of this month. Further consultation had taken place with other young people to gain more feedback. It was made clear that it did not matter what type of care children were in as they would have the same offer.

1.2       Young People aged 16plus received free swim and gym passes to council facilities, both when in care or care leavers. Philip had asked the fostering service to explore if this could be negotiated for under 16’s, but no progress had been made as yet. Cllr Sue Duffy agreed to take this to the Portfolio Holder for leisure services.

Action Sue Duffy

1.3       WIFI in Children’s Homes was being tested this month to make it available to children and staff. Philip believed this would be resolved within 

2          Ice Breaker (Quiz)

Caitlin asked all present what made them proud to be a corporate parent. Discussion took place at each of the tables.

Key points were summarised back to the group:

•           Jonathan – is a teacher and believed that learning was important and he wanted to make sure schools were doing all they can.

•           Mick stated that his motivation stemmed from his having worked in youth services, homes and hostels. He felt that corporate parents should always to try improve services and make sure there was fairness.

•           All young people in care should have the same opportunities as our children and grandchildren.

•           One attendee had been involved in the Aim Higher project at college and universities and wanted to ensure that every young person reached their potential. Corporate parents could improve and help support this.

•           To make things fair and to be a voice for young people.

•           Support young people both practically and emotionally.

•           To ensure consistency and a regular social worker for young people.

•           Many enjoyed being a corporate parent and wanted to do the best they could.

•           If corporate parents say they are going to do something, then they should do it.

•           One attendee trained social workers and found it helpful to share the experience of being a corporate parent with them.

•           To ensure that the Local Authority and its partners gave the best service, support and opportunities.

•           To also look after the people looking after young people.

•           To ensure access to health and to work with social care to safeguard young people.

3          Group Discussions

3.1 What qualities are required to be an efficient social worker and why do we need social workers.

•           More time spent training

•           Take you to nice places

•           Move around different depts.

•  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.