Agenda item

The Panel received a presentation on the Corporate Parenting Peer Diagnostic following the LGA Peer Review in March 2023.

The Head of Children Looked After & Support Services explained that feedback received in April included recommendation about the actions that the CPP could take to improve and become more effective. One of the areas of focus was on how to develop and improve hearing the voice of the child, for example, by involving young people in the development and delivery of services.

Notable strengths and areas for development as set out in the presentation were highlighted. Focus on priority areas to avoid ‘’they say, and nothing happens’’ syndrome, and the need to develop a whole Council approach for Children’s Services.

The LGA had also offered to provide support including reviewing and giving advice on documents such as the Corporate Parenting Strategy. In addition,  training and guidance was offered to the CP Panel members on the role/functions of a CPP.

During discussion, members were informed that several statutory and annual reports were required to be reported to the CPP, which would need to be included in the forward plan.

The Communities Group Manager reported that the CPP had been instrumental in Everyone Active setting up a national leisure offer scheme for children.

It was noted that Thames Valley Police (TVP) would send representatives to meetings in relation to relevant topics and would support appropriate local campaigns. It was also noted that the police had internal policies, procedures and duties that were relevant to CLA and CEYP that will require the input and oversight of the CPP in their development to ensure a joined up and coordinated approach. The Council’s Accommodation Group Manager and the SCF Director of Operations worked closely with the Police.

The Panel Resolved to: Note the presentation.