(TAKE IN INFORMATION REPORT)
The report was introduced by Jackie Clark, Service Leader Adoption. She added that at the time of writing the report there were four other applications for adoption orders pending in court and these had subsequently been granted.
Councillor Wood said he was concerned about the drop in the number of adopters and was keen to take on board spend to save scenarios; for instance the Regional Adoption Agency being used to spread resources and give a wider choice.
Councillor Wood asked about the reason for cancelled adoption panels. Ms Clark said that the cancelled panels was a legacy from 2014/15 when they increased the number of panels to twice a month, to take account the increase of prospective adoptive applications. The number of panels was kept at this level but following the panel chairs report they are considering reverting back to one panel a month. They do however have an adopter panel with a central list, so it would still not delay any child's plan for linking as they would be able to set up additional panels if required.
In response from questions from Councillor Brent, Mrs Newman explained that:
· With regard to the length of care proceedings, Portsmouth is performing better than other local authorities using Portsmouth court. Portsmouth court generally is in the top performing courts in terms of timeliness.
· The recent adopter recruitment event at the Spinnaker Tower was well attended. Following the event seven prospective adopter families are currently at the pre application stage.
The Cabinet Member said that he was keen that feedback from those who attended the event be shared with all involved with the event and also councillors so they know numbers and receive a brief evaluation of the event.
Councillor Wood thanked officers for the report.
The Cabinet Member noted the information report.