The Corporate Parenting Advisory Committee of Haringey Council was scheduled to discuss a range of topics aimed at improving the support and care for children and young adults in the council's care. Key discussions were planned around the upcoming Corporate Parenting Week, the criteria for suitable accommodation for children in care, and updates on various initiatives designed to enhance the well-being and development of young people.

Corporate Parenting Week Schedule

The committee was set to review the proposed schedule for Corporate Parenting Week, which was planned to take place from 19 to 23 February 2024. This themed week aims to strengthen the council's collective responsibility towards children in care and young adults leaving care through a variety of learning events and activities. The proposed schedule included a launch event focusing on corporate parenting values and calls for pledges in areas such as developing staff empathy, securing sponsorships, promoting befriending and fostering opportunities, offering council internships, and providing Christmas support. Information stalls were also planned throughout the week, alongside specific events like a Monday Club Special, a Positive Journeys Seniors cooking session, a Foster Carer Coffee Morning, and a Tottenham Hotspur Football Club event. The week was set to culminate in a Talent Achievement Awards ceremony for children and young people in care.

Suitable Accommodation for Children in Care

An update was scheduled regarding the criteria for suitable accommodation for children in care, with a particular focus on semi-independent placements for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC) and children aged 16 and over. The report was expected to detail the definitions of unregulated and unregistered placements, highlighting that unregistered provision is illegal. A significant change noted was that from 28 October 2023, local authorities would no longer be permitted to place looked-after children aged 16 and 17 in provision not registered with Ofsted as supported accommodation. The report was also to provide an update on Haringey's UASC and 16+ children in semi-independent accommodation, including data on the number of young people in such placements and the registration status of providers with Ofsted. The committee was to be informed about the four Quality Standards for Supported Accommodation Providers set by Ofsted: leadership and management, protection, accommodation, and support. Furthermore, the report was to outline how children in care and UASC are supported with their educational needs, including information on Personal Education Plans (PEPs), tuition for those out of placement, and support for young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

The 'Missing' App

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on 'The Missing' app. This app, designed by young people for young people under 18, aims to provide advice and a way to communicate when missing from home or simply to let others know they are safe. It offers access to guidance from trusted support services and allows users to control the sharing of personal information. The app also provides on-the-spot information regarding young people's rights when stopped and searched by the police, including guidance on the GO WISELY procedure.

Corporate Parenting Week Schedule

The committee was scheduled to review the proposed schedule for Corporate Parenting Week, planned for 19 to 23 February 2024. This initiative aims to promote and strengthen the council's collective responsibility towards children in care and young adults leaving care through a series of learning events and activities. The schedule included a launch event with pledges for staff training, sponsorships, befriending, fostering, internships, and Christmas support. Various stalls and events were planned throughout the week, including a Monday Club Special, a Positive Journeys Seniors cooking session, a Foster Carer Coffee Morning, and a Tottenham Hotspur Football Club event. The week was to conclude with a Talent Achievement Awards ceremony.

Performance Report

An update on the Performance Report was scheduled to be received by the committee.

Experiences of Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC)

A report was expected to provide an update on the experiences of Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC).

'Any of Us' Council Fostering Film Project

The committee was scheduled to receive a verbal update and view a video on the 'Any of Us' Council fostering film project.

Corporate Parenting Champions Update

A verbal update was planned regarding the Corporate Parenting Champions, including any recommendations for the February meeting.