The Corporate Parenting Board of the Isles of Scilly Council was scheduled to discuss progress on recommendations following a visit by Mark Riddell, the National Implementation Adviser for Care Leavers, and to review the local offer for care leavers. The meeting was also set to cover the understanding of what constitutes a vulnerable child and to receive updates from partner organisations.

Progress Update Following Mark Riddell Visit

A significant portion of the meeting was scheduled to focus on the progress made in response to the national care leaver review conducted by Mark Riddell MBE in October 2024. The report detailed the Council's ambition to be Care Ready, meaning it is prepared to meet the needs of any child requiring care or support. The report highlighted progress in establishing strong corporate parenting governance, including the creation of a multi-agency Corporate Parenting Board with comprehensive Terms of Reference. It also outlined the development of a distinctive Isles of Scilly Care Ready model, adapted for the unique context of island life, which considers factors such as geographical isolation, limited housing, and access to specialist services. The report indicated that the voice of children and young people has become a central pillar, with efforts to strengthen their influence on decisions. Furthermore, the development of a local corporate parenting offer for future care leavers was to be discussed, alongside progress on housing solutions and strengthening relationships with housing partners. The report also detailed work with the Virtual School and local businesses to develop education, employment, and training opportunities, and efforts to strengthen partnership accountability.

Local Offer and Care Leavers Offer

The Board was scheduled to consider the Isles of Scilly Care Leavers Core Offer, designed to provide a framework of support for care-experienced young people transitioning into adulthood. This offer aims to move beyond statutory compliance towards a culture of aspiration, belonging, and opportunity, with a commitment from the Council and partner agencies. The Core Offer is intended to be a commitment to young people about the support available and a commitment from the wider system to work together. It encompasses statutory entitlements, financial assistance, accommodation support, education and employment opportunities, health and wellbeing support, travel and mobility assistance, relationship-based support, and access to community networks. The offer is designed around outcomes rather than services, asking what a young person needs to achieve independence, stability, and success. The unique aspects of the Isles of Scilly offer, which account for island realities such as higher freight costs and seasonal housing shortages, were to be highlighted. The report detailed specific support tiers for eligible, relevant, former relevant, and qualifying young people, including housing support, financial grants, and assistance with mainland travel and inter-island transport.

Understanding Vulnerability: What is a Vulnerable Child?

The meeting was scheduled to discuss a definition of a vulnerable child, building on previous discussions. The aim was to provide a concise definition that acknowledges vulnerability is not static and can vary depending on perspective. The report proposed a definition that identifies a child as vulnerable if they belong to specific recognised cohorts, such as a young carer, have been previously known to children's services, have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), or are experiencing family stress, domestic abuse, or substance misuse. The report noted the strong protective factors on the Isles of Scilly, including community cohesion and trusted relationships, and how these should be harnessed.

Voice and Live Experience on the Isles of Scilly

The Board was scheduled to discuss the voice and live experience of children and young people on the Isles of Scilly. This agenda item was intended to incorporate feedback gathered through Youth Hub sessions, aiming to inform Board discussions and decision-making. The objective was to explore opportunities for young people to contribute directly to the Board through attendance, video messages, or written feedback, ensuring their evidence is presented.

Partner Updates (including Housing)

Updates from partner organisations, including the Housing department, were scheduled to be presented. These updates would likely cover their contributions to corporate parenting responsibilities and the support provided to vulnerable children and young people.

Minutes and Action Log

The Board was also scheduled to review the minutes and action log from previous meetings, ensuring continuity and oversight of ongoing work.