A report will be presented by the Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care) (Document “F”) which provides the Panel with comprehensive information regarding the outcomes for looked after children in the Bradford district.

The report comprises a summary of the information known about looked after children in Bradford as at 31 March 2017 and draws on the same data used to provide statistical returns to the Department for Education (DfE)( all figures being provisional as the DfE will publish the final figures in March 2018). It draws comparisons with performance levels at 31 March 2016 and to the first National Statistical Release for 2015-16.

Recommended –

That Document “F” be noted.

                                                                        (David Byrom – 01274 432986)

A report was presented by the Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care) (Document “F”) which provided the Panel with comprehensive information regarding the outcomes for looked after children in the Bradford district.

The report comprised a summary of the information known about looked after children in Bradford as at 31 March 2017 and drew on the same data used to provide statistical returns to the Department for Education (DfE)(all figures being provisional as the DfE would publish the final figures in March 2018). It provided comparisons with performance levels at 31 March 2016 and to the first National Statistical Release for 2015-16.

In presenting the report the following points were highlighted:

·         There had been a significant increase in the number of looked after children. This was mirrored at regional and national level and was obviously a challenge for the local authority.

·         The numbers of adoptions and Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) had decreased and Care Orders had become much more likely to be used.

·         Increased numbers of young people had had dental checks and immunisations.

·         There had been an improvement in the numbers of those in education and training.

·         A good level of placement stability was being maintained. Some out of area placements had ended but only where this was a positive move for the young person concerned.

·         A lot of work was being done in respect of mental health issues.

·         The B Positive Pathways project was moving forward.

·         inspections of children’s homes over the last year had been very positive particularly in light of the challenges being faced.

·         Educational outcomes was to be the subject of a separate report to the Panel at a later date.

·         The level of participation by young people in their reviews was good.

·         The number of cautions had fallen and the level of convictions reduced.  There were now two dedicated police officers based in residential homes

·         In terms of economic wellbeing, the authority was performing well in respect of the numbers in Employment, Education or Training (EET) and the provision of suitable accommodation.

The Deputy Director responded to Member’s questions:

·         The change in terms of SGOs was reflected nationally; it appeared that the judiciary wished to see it demonstrated that arrangements were tried and tested prior to being made more formal.

·         A real improvement had been seen in respect of the length of time children were waiting to be adopted and the authority was performing well in comparison with others.  It should be noted that these figures could be skewed by the situation for children with additional needs.

·         It was believed that the 96% participation level for LAC in their reviews had been achieved through a strong focus being placed on the children and their ability to participate. The Independent Reviewing Officers (IROs) made meeting with a young person prior to their review a priority.

·         There had been an increase in the number of young people who had a PEP and the quality of those PEPs was also recognised as an issue of great importance.

·         Young people who chose to be not in work, education or training (NEET) due to parental responsibilities were still counted in the NEET figures even if this had been a positive choice on their part.

·         A breakdown of the NEET figure to local level could be provided.

·         A lot of work was being undertaken to motivate LAC to go into higher education. Higher numbers were now going to University after the age of 21. Debt was a big issue in this regard and payments had been reviewed to see if these young people could be better supported.

·         The number of young people entering into apprenticeships had increased.

The Portfolio Holder commented that the trend was for fewer young people to go to University, particularly in less affluent areas.  Apprenticeships could be as good as University; the aim was to fulfil potential and achieve aspirations.

In response to a question from a Member, the Co-opted Member from West Yorkshire Police said that attempts were made not to criminalise young people and alternative restoration methods were available for use where appropriate.  The prevention work being undertaken by the Youth Offending Team having a positive impact.

Resolved –

(1)       That Document “F” be noted and welcomed.

(2)       That the Deputy Director (Children’s Social Care) be requested to include more detailed localised information in the report to be submitted to the March meeting of the Panel in respect of the Through Care Service.

ACTION:       Deputy Director (Children's Social Care)