The Corporate Parenting Panel of Warwickshire Council was scheduled to discuss a range of important topics concerning children in care and care leavers. Key areas of focus included updates on the Voice, Influence & Change Team, the performance of Warwickshire's Children's Homes, and a comprehensive review of children in care performance data. The panel was also set to consider the Children in Care Annual Report and a presentation on Warwickshire Fostering Recruitment.

Updates from the Chair, Directors and Senior Officers

The panel was scheduled to receive updates from the Chair, Councillor George Finch (Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Children & Families), and other Directors and Senior Officers on issues within the remit of the committee.

Voice, Influence & Change Team

An update was scheduled to be presented by the Voice, Influence & Change Team, covering their activities and initiatives. This team works to ensure that the voices of children and young people are heard and acted upon within the council's services. Their work includes engaging with young people through forums and direct support to influence service development and delivery.

Warwickshire Children's Homes

Verbal updates were planned regarding each of Warwickshire's Children's Homes. These updates would provide information on the operational status, performance, and any developments within these residential settings.

Performance Data

The panel was scheduled to review performance data related to children in care. This would likely include key performance indicators (KPIs) and statistical information to assess the effectiveness of services and identify areas for improvement. The report pack indicated that this would cover data up to December 2025.

Children in Care Annual Report 2025

A detailed Children in Care Annual Report for 2025 was scheduled for discussion. This report would provide a comprehensive overview of the health services provided to Warwickshire's children in care by the South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT) CiC Health Team. It would cover data summaries, key performance indicators, health clinical activities, service improvements, and challenges faced by the team. The report also included an outlined forward improvement plan for the following year.

Warwickshire Fostering Recruitment Presentation

A presentation was scheduled concerning Warwickshire's fostering recruitment efforts. The accompanying report provided detailed information on the current state of fostering recruitment, national trends, local data on household approvals, and strategies for recruitment and retention. This would likely include discussions on the challenges faced, such as the national shortage of foster carers and cost-of-living pressures, as well as successes and innovative strategies being implemented.

Development of the Work Programme and Items on the Forward Plan

The panel was scheduled to discuss the development of its work programme and review items on the council's forward plan that are relevant to the panel's remit. This would involve considering future areas of work and ensuring that the panel's activities align with the council's strategic priorities for children and young people. The report pack indicated that this would include a review of items from the forward plan relevant to the panel's remit.