Decision details

Background:

In March 2016, the government announced changes to the delivery of adoption services setting a very clear direction that all local authorities’ adoption services must be delivered on a regionalised basis by 2020.

The proposal is for a new Regional Adoption Agency (RAA) to be created through combining the adoption services for the three authorities of Kent, London Borough of Bexley and Medway.  These agencies wish to build on the success of their existing services to improve performance in meeting the needs of children who require permanence through adoption, by bringing together the best practice from each authority within the RAA.  It is proposed that Kent will be the lead authority and the host for the RAA. 

Reports on the development of an RAA across Kent, Bexley and Medway have previously been presented to Children’s Social Care & Health Cabinet Committee on 6^th September 2016 and to CYPE Cabinet Committee on 7^th September 2017.  CYPE Cabinet Committee was asked to ENDORSE in principle the proposal to enter into formal dialogue with Medway Council and the London Borough of Bexley with a view to establishing a Regional Adoption Agency. 

A report is being presented to CYPE Cabinet Committee on 28^th June 2019 which builds on the formal conversations that have been taking place between the 3 local authorities since September 2017 by moving the project into a detailed design phase with ultimate, final sign off on the model to take place in September 2019.

Decision to be taken by the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education:

To develop a Regional Adoption Agency model in collaboration with London Borough of Bexley and Medway Council which will be established in line with the government programme.