Decision details

The Director of Children and Families submitted a report regarding the work undertaken by the fostering service between April 2018 and March 2019, and which provided an update on the actions which were being taken in relation to the recruitment and retention of foster carers, and also on the developments within the service.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board was provided with further information on the actions being taken to reduce the number of children looked after who were living in placements provided by independent and private providers, together with further context on the challenges faced in this area. Also, it was highlighted that the welfare of the children and young people in such matters was the Authority’s priority.

Responding to a Member’s request, officers undertook to provide further relevant financial detail in such reports in future, if it was felt that that would be beneficial to Members. 

In conclusion, on behalf of the Board, the Chair extended her thanks to foster carers for the vital role which they played across the city.

RESOLVED – That the contents of the submitted report and appendices be received and noted, with the Board continuing to support the work of the fostering service in achieving the best possible outcomes for children looked after and also the ongoing work to recruit and retain high quality carers within the service.