Issue - meetings

Purpose

To inform the Lead Member of the proposal for a twelve month Intensive Foster Family Bridging care pilot and to seek funding approval.

RECOMMENDED that the Cabinet Member approve the proposal set out in the report. 

The Service Leader for the Fostering Service, introduced the report and explained that against a national year on year increase in the number of children we care for, coupled with a national shortage of suitable homes, there is an identified need for children with complex backgrounds and high support needs to have a period of care with resilient, highly skilled carers who are able stabilise children reacting to significant trauma. Currently Portsmouth does not provide this model of care, and it may result in an expensive bespoke spot purchase arrangement for a small number of children, and this may be outside the city. Working with partners, the purpose of Foster Family Bridging Care will be to provide care for 28+ days and support the child's transition to a longer term home arrangement. The role and responsibilities of the foster family will be to provide a safe family base for children who have experienced disruption and trauma. The Service Lead informed Members that in addition to improved outcomes for children, the pilot could also make savings for the local authority.  The skills based fees and allowances have been benchmarked against other local authorities.

Members' Comments

Members agreed that the project would provide better outcomes for children and young people with the potential to make savings.  Councillor Suzy Horton noted that this aligns with the council's values and ambitions and that foster carers recruited to the project would find it very rewarding to help children and young people in this way. 

DECISION - the Cabinet Member approved the Intensive Foster Family Bridging Care twelve month Pilot proposal set out in the report.