Issue - meetings

The report will provide information on the various options for the future of the residential provision for Looked after Children directly by the Council. Report to follow

The Committee considered a report setting out options for the future of the borough’s two children’s homes following a review of internal provision in light of ongoing concerns on value for money and the outcomes achieved for young people. A regular pattern of underoccupancy had prevailed despite expanding the remit of one of the homes, and had resulted in costs in excess of those seen in comparable homes. A number of options had been considered for the future of the homes but the report to be submitted for Cabinet in February would seek in principle approval for the closure of both homes pending the results of an Equalities Impact Assessment and consultation with relevant persons.

Both staff groups had been advised of the recommendation to close the homes and meetings had been scheduled with the young people in both homes later in the week to discuss the options being considered and provide reassurance on how any changes would be managed and the impact on individual future care plans. Barnados would be running an additional session with the young people to address any other issues arising. Meetings would also be scheduled with respective parents, schools, social workers and social worker managers.   

Assurances were provided that should the homes be closed, sufficient alterative provision was available, which additionally provided more flexibility in ensuring the best placements were obtained according to individual need. The Committee received a tabled paper setting out the current position of the individual children currently living at the two homes and provisional future plans in place for them. Confirmation was provided that in line with their care plans and irrespective of whether the homes closed or not, none of the current occupants were expected to still be in the homes by July when it was recommended the homes be closed. Assurances were also provided that any private children home placements used in the borough in the future would be required to have a rating of good or outstanding. 

In response to a query, it was confirmed that the legal status of both sites had been checked and neither had restrictive covenants attached. It was requested that should the recommendation to close the homes be approved, that consideration be given to alternative uses for the sites as well as disposal, for example potential suitability for a mother and baby unit.

The Committee asked for a future report on semi-supported housing options including pilots being run with Homes for Haringey and Community Housing.

Following discussions, it was agreed that where possible the same Reg 33 inspectors continue to undertake scheduled visits to provide assurances on continuity of care over any transition period.

The Committee asked that their thanks be placed on record for the work of staff to progress this difficult piece of work.