Issue - meetings

[To receive the accommodation for 16 and 17-year-old Young People in Care and Care Leavers report.]

Alison Hinds, Head of Children and Young People in Care presented the Accommodation for 16 and 17-year-old Young People and Care Leavers report. It was outlined that a letter had been received from Nadhim Zawahi MP, Parliament Under-Secretary of State for Children and Families, which had been sent to all Directors of Children’s Services and Chairs of Local Safeguarding Children’s Boards. It was reported that the letter, attached as Appendix 1 to the report, highlighted the challenges faced by local authorities in relation to these services and that there was currently no regulating body.

The report provided an overview of the City of Wolverhampton Council’s approach and assure the Corporate Parenting Board of the procedures in place when placing 16 – 17-year-old young people in accommodation such as semi-independent units, supported accommodation, hostels, foyers and supported lodgings.

It was noted that extensive work had been undertaken to ensure City of Wolverhampton were following safeguarding processes and providing appropriate placements of the right quality.

It was clarified that financial support was offered as part of the service to young people in the accommodation provided as well as budget management support to enable young people to manage their money effectively.  

In a response to a query regarding young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), it was clarified that as part of their pathway plan, their needs would be assessed to determine if the accommodation was appropriate. The Pathway Plan would then be reviewed every six months or fewer if required.

In response to a query regarding access to higher education, it was noted that whilst tuition fees were not waived by universities, the local authority could provide bursaries to cover costs for necessities such as travel, books and equipment.  

It was clarified that Wolverhampton Homes owned some of the properties used and that spot purchasing was being explored. Reassurance was offered in respect of quality of units and appropriateness for young care leavers.  

It was noted that a training flat was in use to offer young people the chance to trial the experience of living independently. It was outlined that their stay in the flat could be graduated from a few hours to a few days until they felt ready to have a home of their own. It was agreed that a video of the training flat would be shared and Councillors were invited to undertake a visit at a time when it was not in use.

Resolved:

1.    That the Accommodation for 16 and 17-year-old Young People and Care Leavers report be received.

2.    The arrangements in place to ensure the support and quality of care for 16-17-year-old young people in care living in supported accommodation be noted.

3.    That a video of the training flat be shared with the Board.

4.    That a visit to the training flat be arranged for Board members if required.