The Director of Children’s Services outlined the strategy in place and the additional capacity required to deliver improved outcomes for children in need, at risk of significant harm or who had experienced significant harm. The major drivers were the findings of careful scrutiny of services following Baby P; the requirements set out in the Children and Young Person’s Act 2008, the Children and Young People’s Plan, Local Area Agreement and the Council’s Corporate Plan. Cabinet’s approval was sought to implement the following changes from agreed budget growth of £690,000.

The Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Lifelong Learning welcomed the report and the measures set out in the report which would strengthen the ability of social workers to spend time with children.

Resolved: - That

(1)  the strategy set out in the report be approved;

(2)  uncommitted 2008/09 ABG (up to £260,100) be carried forward in to 2009/10;

(3)  the report be referred to Employment & Appointments Committee; and

(4)  the Director of Children’s Services and the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management prepare a further report for Cabinet setting out proposed remodelling of legal support for children, in the light of changed circumstances.