Minutes:
The following witnesses were welcomed to the meeting:
Mel John-Ross, Service Director – Children’s Social Care & Safeguarding
Councillor Margaret Bruff, Cabinet Spokesperson for People - Safeguarding
The Service Director introduced this item and gave an overview of key performance issues highlighted in the report as at 31st March 2019, including Barnsley’s historical performance and comparisons with other local authorities.
In the ensuing discussion, and in response to detailed questioning and challenge, the following matters were highlighted:
The number of Looked After Children is still relatively low but does exceed the current target, with more children coming into care than leaving. School attendance has improved but there is always more to do.
There has been a slight increase to caseloads for the Assessment/Joint Investigation and Safeguarding team but these are monitored closely by Managers and arrangements are in place ot help mitigate particularly high caseloads if necessary.
The number of re-referrals tends to fluctuate and is higher than envisaged in line with child protection rates. Every re-referral is scrutinised carefully.
Work is ongoing with Berneslai Homes to ensure care leavers aged 18 are in suitable accommodation where appropriate and 4 ‘training flats’ are provided to help the transition. Semi-independent accommodation is an option for those who are not quite ready to live independently. The preferred solution is a ‘Stay Put’ arrangement whereby the young person remains with foster carers, but this can be a challenge. Care leavers in residential accommodation have to leave at age 18, by which time some are ready and some are not.
Witnesses were thanked for their attendance and contribution.