The Corporate Parenting Board of the Isles of Scilly Council met on Wednesday 5 August 2026 to discuss their approach to supporting vulnerable children and young people. The meeting's agenda included a presentation on a model of practice, a focus on young carers, and updates on virtual head services and preparation for national input work.

Model of Practice and the 'Care Ready Approach'

A presentation was scheduled to explore a model of practice and its relevance to the 'Care Ready Approach' for vulnerable children and young people on the Isles of Scilly. This approach aims to ensure that all children and young people on the islands, particularly those identified as vulnerable, are safe, supported, and able to thrive. The discussion was expected to cover how to establish a consistent understanding and application of corporate parenting principles across the Council and its partners, maintain oversight of vulnerable children, and ensure that service, workforce, governance, and partnership arrangements are robust and ready to provide high-quality, coordinated support.

Young Carers as Vulnerable Children

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing young carers as a group of vulnerable children. The report pack highlighted the unique pressures faced by young carers on the Isles of Scilly, including geographical isolation, limited access to services, and reduced opportunities for respite, which can intensify the impact of their caring roles. The strategy for young carers aims to ensure that every young carer is identified, valued, and supported, enabling them to flourish emotionally, socially, and educationally. Key priorities included improving the identification of young carers across all agencies, strengthening early help pathways, reducing inappropriate caring roles through whole-family support, and providing meaningful breaks and opportunities for peer connection. The report also detailed statutory responsibilities and legislative frameworks, such as the Children Act 1989 and the Children and Families Act 2014, which underpin the local authority's duties towards young carers. An action plan for young carers' holiday activities in August 2026 was also outlined, detailing various activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, and outings, with associated costings.

Virtual Head Update

An update was scheduled regarding the role and services of the Virtual Head. This role typically supports children who are not attending school in person, often those in care or with specific educational needs. The discussion was expected to cover how this service contributes to the overall support network for vulnerable children on the islands.

Preparation for National Input Work

The meeting agenda also included a discussion on the preparation for national input work with children in care and vulnerable children on the Isles of Scilly. This suggests an upcoming initiative involving external expertise or collaboration to further enhance the support provided to these young people.

The meeting also included a review of the minutes from the previous meeting held on 10 June 2026. During that meeting, discussions had taken place regarding the draft terms of reference for the Corporate Parenting Board, with suggestions for greater emphasis on diversity and the creation of handbooks for children. Practical guidance on members' responsibilities and expectations was also discussed, with a focus on ensuring preparedness and a child-centred approach, even in the absence of current looked-after children. The minutes indicated that amendments were to be made to the terms of reference to the satisfaction of the Chairman and lead officers. Discussions also touched upon the importance of the board being meaningful and practical, cognisant of the needs of children across all spectrums.