Purpose

he purpose of this report is to approve
recommendations for the payment of uplifts for existing
children’s placements and the prospective process for annual
uplifts for new and existing children’s placements for
2025/26 and going forward.

As part of proposals to improve the sufficiency of placements for
looked after children, discussions have taken place between
Placements North West (PNW) and the other North West local
authorities, who are part of the PNW framework, to reach a
collaborative approach annually to uplift requests for existing
placements.

As of 31st March 2025, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
commissioned 153 external placements for looked after children
through fostering, residential and supported accommodation across 1
local and 3 regional purchasing systems.

Content

Delegated Officer Decision taken by:
The Strategic Director of Children &
Education in consultation with Executive Member;
Agreed to the recommendations for the payment
of uplifts for existing children’s placements and the
prospective process for annual uplifts for new and existing
children’s placements for 2025/26 and going
forward.