Previous reference: Minute 19 (2015/16)

The Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care) will submit a report in relation to the Exit Interview process for young people who are due to leave care (Document “R”).

Recommended –

That Document “R” be noted.

                                                                        (Carly Turpin – 01274 437123)

Previous reference: Minute 19 (2015/16)

The Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care) submitted a report in relation to the Exit Interview process for young people who were due to leave care (Document “R”). The process aimed to gather their views about their time in care and this information was then used to guide future service improvements.

He was explained that:

·         The Exit Interview Questionnaire had been reviewed in consultation with the Children in Care Council.

·         The majority were now completed by electronic means although the option to do it manually was available if this was preferred.

·         The aim was to allow the young people more independence in completing the form rather than going through the process with a Leaving Care worker.

·         35 surveys had been completed during 2016 which equated to approximately half of the young people leaving care.

·         The information had been collated and would give the Service an idea of where improvements might be necessary or areas for future consideration.

·         The results of the surveys had already influenced the service for the future; the use of bed and breakfast accommodation had been highlighted by young people and, as a result, had thus not been used for the last 18 months.  The commissioning standards for accommodation had changed significantly in recent years.

·         Another initiative that had arisen as a result of feedback was the use of purchase cards which would facilitate young people being more independent in terms of buying necessary items.

·         The majority of young people had stated that they did not think that there was anything they would change about the service they had received.

·         Post 16 more young people were in Education, Employment or Training (EET) than not. The Authority was in the top third nationally in this regard.

·         The importance of stability was recognised and a young person should now have the same social worker throughout their time in care, subject to that worker leaving their post.

In response to questions it was explained that:

·         A significant majority of those who had completed the questionnaire had given their name rather than remain anonymous.

·         In terms of the numbers described as being homeless; a vulnerable young person’s case would be kept open beyond the age of 18.  These figures included a number of young people for whom the Authority had a statutory duty of care but who had not been looked after.  Changes had been made in respect of the commissioning of accommodation and a lot more supported accommodation was now provided which gave a young person a more stepped process.

·         Young people who were parents were recorded as being unemployed even if this was a positive choice on their part.

·         Attempts would be made to facilitate young people in accessing any activities that they may have expressed an interest in and a specific group had been established to help young people to get access to activities that they might not otherwise be able to do .  Work was also being undertaken with Leisure Services to obtain free gym membership for LAC and to set up a football group.

The Portfolio Holder said that she was aware of a local group that promoted cycling and bicycle maintenance and that this should be looked at as a possibility for LAC to access. The Deputy Director said that this was already under consideration.

The Chair noted that the Council’s Future Leaders Programme had also adopted the issue of the facilitation of access to local facilities for LAC.

A Members commented that young people should be encouraged to take up voluntary work which had the benefit of enhancing employability skills.

Resolved –

(1)       That Document “R” be noted.

(2)       That the care provided for looked after children by the Leaving Care Service be welcomed.

(3)       That the young people who completed the Exit Interview questionnaire be thanked for their efforts which will contribute to making improvements in the Leaving Care Service for the future.

ACTION:       Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care)