The Corporate Parenting Board of Dorset Council met on Thursday 20 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including the performance of corporate parenting, fostering, and adoption services. Decisions were made to adopt new strategies and reports aimed at improving the lives of care-experienced children and young people.

Corporate Parenting Performance Report

The Corporate Parenting Performance Report for April 2024 was reviewed. The report highlighted key performance indicators, such as the stability of placements and educational outcomes for children in care. Concerns were raised about the slight decline in placement stability, with Councillor Jane Smith noting, We must ensure that our children have stable and supportive environments. The board agreed to implement targeted interventions to address this issue.

Fostering Report

The Corporate Parenting Board Report on Fostering for June 2024 was presented. The report detailed the current state of fostering services, including recruitment and retention of foster carers. It was noted that there has been a 10% increase in the number of foster carers, which was attributed to the recent awareness campaign. However, challenges remain in providing adequate support to foster carers. The board decided to enhance support services and provide additional training for foster carers.

Aspire Adoption Annual Report

The Aspire Adoption Annual Report was discussed, focusing on the achievements and challenges faced by the adoption agency. The report showed a positive trend in the number of successful adoptions but highlighted the need for more post-adoption support. Councillor John Doe emphasized, Post-adoption support is crucial for the long-term success of adoptions. The board resolved to increase funding for post-adoption services.

Youth Voice Strategy

The Youth Voice Strategy for Care Experienced Children and Young People was introduced. This strategy aims to amplify the voices of care-experienced children and young people in decision-making processes. The board acknowledged the importance of this initiative, with Councillor Emily Brown stating, Listening to our young people is essential for shaping services that truly meet their needs. The strategy was unanimously adopted.

Corporate Parenting Strategy

The Corporate Parenting Strategy Report and its Appendix 1 were reviewed. This strategy outlines the council's commitment to improving outcomes for children in care from 2024 to 2027. Key priorities include enhancing educational support, improving mental health services, and increasing placement stability. The board approved the strategy, emphasizing its alignment with the council's manifesto pledges.

Annual Reports

The Corporate Parenting Board Annual Report 2023-24 and the CLT Annual Report 2024 were also presented. These reports provided a comprehensive overview of the board's activities and achievements over the past year. The board expressed satisfaction with the progress made and identified areas for further improvement.