Our Councillors have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting children in care and care leavers after approving a motion reinforcing their responsibilities as Corporate Parents.
At Full Council last night (24 September), councillors backed a motion proposed by Executive Member for Children and Families, Cllr Gareth Mackey, which underlines the collective responsibility of all members to champion the wellbeing, aspirations and life chances of children and young people in the Council's care.
We currently cares for around 330 looked after children and supports approximately 434 care leavers aged between 18 and 25. Through the motion, councillors have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the needs of these young people are at the forefront of decision-making across the authority.
As part of the commitment, members have pledged to consider the impact of their decisions on children in care, engage positively with the Council's Corporate Parenting team, and use their professional networks to help create opportunities for work experience, apprenticeships and mentoring.
Councillors will also continue to support and attend events celebrating the achievements of looked-after children and young people.
The motion also recognised the unique challenges faced by care leavers as they transition into adulthood and independence. Councillors have committed to taking practical steps to enhance opportunities and provide support that helps young people achieve their ambitions and reach their full potential.
Members further agreed that party politics should never stand in the way of achieving the best possible outcomes for children, recognising that collaboration and a shared sense of purpose are essential to delivering positive change.
Cllr Mackey said:
Every child and young person in our care deserves the same opportunities, encouragement and support that any good parent would want for their own child. By approving this motion, Councillors from across the chamber have reaffirmed their commitment to being strong and effective Corporate Parents and to helping our children in care and care leavers achieve their ambitions and thrive.
The motion reinforces the our ongoing commitment to ensuring children in care and care leavers are supported, listened to and given every opportunity to succeed.