The Assistant Director of Children and Families introduced the report of the Director of Children, Families and Education, which presented the Committee with the Children Looked After (CLA) and Care Leavers Strategy 2022-2025. The Strategy set out the Local Authority and partners plans as corporate parents to ensure CLA and Care Leavers were valued, listened to and supported to be aspirational and to achieve positive relationships and their full potential. The Strategy set out four key priorities all of which were underpinned by listening to the voices of CLA and Care Leavers.

A discussion ensued with Members querying the process for care leavers progressing to full time employment with the Council. The Director of Children’s Services stated that there were many opportunities for care leavers in Children’s Services and that other directorates also offered opportunities. It was highlighted that there was a full coaching programme in place to support these young people. The Assistant Director agreed to circulate information to Members with details of care leavers in apprenticeships and case studies. Details of care leavers in apprenticeships and case studies would be circulated to Members.

Members noted and welcomed the co-production of the priorities with young people.

Resolved – That:

(1) the Children Looked After and Care Leavers Strategy 2022-2025 be endorsed and;

(2) an update on the progress of the Strategy be brought to the Committee in 12 months.