Decision details

Purpose of report: The report updates members on the objectives of the strategy. It is a statutory function to inform Members of the annual adoption report. It also updates Members about the outcomes of inspections of fostering, adoption and children's homes in 2007.

Members are asked to: Agree the strategy to increase overall number of York based foster carers and specialised fostering scheme.

Advice of the Advisory Panel

That the Executive Member be advised to:

·        Acknowledge the information relating to progress in the placement strategy for looked after children relating to adoption, fostering and children’s homes.

·        Agree the further development of the specialist fostering scheme in line with the stated principles of the strategy.

·        Acknowledge the annual adoption report

·        Note that further reports will be forthcoming in 2008 on short breaks for disabled children, adoption support and Care Matters.

Decision of the Executive Member

RESOLVED:             That the advice of the Advisory Panel be accepted and endorsed.

REASON:                  To comply with the requirements to receive an annual report, to reduce both independent fostering agency placements and achieve cost savings and to ensure knowledge on future information.