Agenda item

Officers outlined a number of key highlights:

·  Bespoke risk assessment for every child

·  Risk assessments for foster carers and extra funding available

·  Social worker increased contact with children and conversations around supporting distancing COVID-19 measures

·  Description of some practical examples of support offered for families and children

·  Importance of support and guidance from the designated looked after doctor and health professionals (fast track of testing where necessary)

·  Increase of personal allowances to cover data and Wi-Fi

·  Also payment of £10 per week of allowance to children in custody to enable continued contact

Summary of issues / questions raised:

General

·  Dr. Stacy John-Legere outlined the measures in place for looked after children in respect of shielding to provide support and guidance

·  Mental health sessions delivered via zoom / Microsoft Teams and identification of continuing therapies

·  Dr. Dolly Agrawal referred to recovery plan in line with Royal College guidelines including triage system, PPE, video and face-to-face assessments

·  Disproportionate impact on children and care leavers and looking at business and how local authority can support, give information and provide an opportunity for concerns to be raised.

Issues raised by young people present:

·  A young person was able to communicate his experience of living through COVID-19 talking about the feeling of isolation and the severe impact on mental and physical health; the effect of panic buying which served to further exacerbate these feelings of isolation. This young person moved from another city where studying at university to London and had to find a home; other young people were able to move in with their families with support and help

·  Concern expressed about the greater impact for black, Asian and minority ethnic group young (BAME people and query what support has been given (including the increased risk of death amongst this group). Officers outlined the individual assessment/support provided and regular newsletter

·  Identified issues arising through their employment if PPE not provided (officers responded by confirming employers responsible for PPE) but if not responding to let officers know so that they can work to mitigate any negative impacts for the young person

·  Example of trying to get to work by bus in a time where use of public transport discouraged (no parents to offer a lift) and being late for work; bills still have to be paid and rent so no option but to go to work

·  Query raised about support for care leavers whom are asylum seekers. Officers advised policy in place to deal with this recognised vulnerable group

·  How care leavers are receiving support for education and training. It was explained that a workshop would shortly be taking place to deal with these issues and identify the best pathway for support

·  Query if the support referred to previously would be withdrawn following COVID-19 (for example £10 allowance for phone). Confirmed that this financial support would not continue but the helpline would carry on and other support would remain

·  Issues of laptops raised and what young people receiving.

RESOLVED:

1.  That the response of children’s services to looked after children, care leavers and foster carers during COVID19 be noted.

2.  That it be noted that a workshop will take place towards the end of August to deal with education, employment and training issues arising.