Agenda item

1.         Mr Brightwell introduced the report and set out key points as follows:-

• Since the last update in November 09, the number of LACs placed by OLAs has fallen by 42;
• Kent has the highest LAC population in the UK, with as many again being  placed by OLAs;
• the key issue is the impact and pressures on education and health services for Kent’s children;
• Kent had been successful in lobbying government, and the introduction of the Sufficiency duty, a duty on all local authorities to commission sufficient LAC placement for their own LAC in their own area, would help Kent;
• the situation won’t change overnight, and LACs already settled here won’t be sent home;
• detail set out in the report shows placement patterns. Some OLAs show a very high level of placement, by many are very low and falling.

2.         Mr Brightwell answered a number of questions from Members, and the points highlighted were as follows:-

a)         Kent is not the Corporate Parent for LAC placed by OLAs; this responsibility remains with the placing authority.  Kent works with OLAs to remind them of their Corporate Parenting responsibilities and to see that they meet them;

b)         many LACs placed by OLAs have additional educational needs. The costs of these are not covered by the funding coming with the child so have to be absorbed by Kent. However, SEN statements needs are funded by OLAs;

c)         the approach made to OLAs is important.  Kent should offer to help them to address the impact of their level of placements on their own and Kent’s LACs;

d)         Members asked to be told what level of funding accompanies a LAC placed by OLA, and Mr Brightwell undertook to advise them of this figure;

e)         Members expressed concern that some children do not show up for funding for education needs as they arrive after the start of the school year and leave before the end of year and so are never counted as part of that year’s cohort for funding purposes;

f)          the Sufficiency duty was welcomed as it will gradually address the issue and reduce costs to Kent;

g)         Independent Fostering Agencies (IFAs) are supported financially by London Boroughs who place children with them, and under the Sufficiency duty, it is important for Kent to work with IFAs to highlight the need to recruit foster carers in their own area.  Recruitment of foster carers in London has always been a challenge, as housing and other costs are so high. The level of placements made in Kent exacerbates the shortage of foster carers in Kent and nationwide;

h)         Mr King referred to the damaging effects of moving frequently, and highlighted the behavioural and mental health difficulties which often arose from this, which would make a young person more of a challenge for social workers to work with.

3.         RESOLVED that:-

a)         the information set out in the report and given in response to Members’ questions be noted, with thanks;

b)         the issue be kept on the Board’s agenda for future meetings so the expected changes in patterns arising  from the Sufficiency duty can be identified when they happen; and

c)         The Board reserve the idea of referring the issue to Cabinet in future if it feels it necessary to do so.