Over the last decade the number of children in care has risen dramatically, with around 60,000 children now residing in the care system at any one time whilst progress in adoption has stalled. Despite substantial reform and investment, outcomes for looked-after children continue to lag far behind those for other children, with children in care dependent on a postcode lottery of support that prevents many from accessing the services they need. The majority of children enter the care system as a result of terrible abuse or neglect and are subsequently disproportionately vulnerable to high levels of mental health problems. Current instability of placements and limited service support often further deteriorates a childās mental health, increasing poor educational attainment and contact with the criminal justice system. Underlining its commitment to work with local authorities to improve stability and security for looked-after children, the Governmentās āAdoption Statutory Guidanceā (February 2011) seeks to increase the supply and time-span of placements through incentivising more people to become foster parents, improving support for those who do foster and acting to prevent placements from breaking down. The Government has emphasised the need to improve accountability of local authorities to ensure greater weight is placed on the number, timeliness and quality of adoptions, particularly for children from ethnic minorities, older children or those who are disabled. Looked-after children should also be involved in decisions regarding their future. The 2nd Annual Looked-After Children Symposium offers an invaluable opportunity for social service practitioners, education and health practitioners, local authorities and other key stakeholders to understand and assess progress made over the last year, and consider the next steps in improving outcomes for looked-after children and establishing an adoption system that is fair, effective and fit for purpose. Delegates will: Ā To register for the event call Ā +44 (0)845 606 1535, or alternatively click here.Ā Overview
Programme
09:30
Registration and Morning Refreshments
10:15
Chairās Welcome and Introduction
10:30
Panel Session One:
Broken Promises ā Providing Security and Stability for Every Vulnerable Child
11:15
Morning Coffee Break
11:30
Open Floor Discussion and Debate with Panel One
12:30
Networking Lunch
13:30
Panel Session Two:
Policy into Practice ā Improving the Health and Well-Being of Looked-After Children
14:15
Afternoon Coffee Break
14:30
Open Floor Discussion and Debate with Panel Two
15:30
Chairās Summary and Closing Comments
15:40
Networking Reception
16:30
Close
Registration
The 2nd Annual Looked-After Children Symposium: Improving Outcomes for Vulnerable Young People
Organisation:
Articles:
Link :
http://publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/BJ12-PPE.php
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