Corporate Parenting requirements came into force in 1998 as part of the Department of Health’s ‘Quality Protects’ programme. Corporate Parenting is where a local authority has a legal and moral duty to provide the kind of support that any good parent would provide for their own children. This includes enhancing a child’s quality of life, as well as simply keeping them safe. A legal framework now underpins this responsibility, including the:
- Children and Families Act 2014
- Keep on Caring: Supporting young people from care to independence 2016
- Putting Children First 2016
- Children and Social Work Act 2017
Governance of this plan is overseen by the Corporate Parenting Board, which includes young people, senior council officers and managers, elected members, and representatives from partner agencies across Education, Health, and Social Care. The Board is chaired by the Lead of the Children, Young People and Education Committee, ensuring robust scrutiny and accountability in delivering our priorities.
Partner agencies are expected to share responsibility for achieving these priorities alongside the council. Councils should actively consider how partners can support their Corporate Parenting responsibilities, particularly in the delivery of services. Progress and impact will be tracked through key performance indicators, reported regularly to the Board.
Children Looked After and Care Leavers Councils are integral members of the Board, helping to shape the agenda and ensuring that children and young people receive meaningful feedback from both council officers and partner organisations.
Corporate Parenting Governance
| Children Young People and Education Committee | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Parenting Board | |||
| My Health and Wellbeing | My Friends, Family and Home | My Learning and Skills | My Future |
| Voice of Children and Young People | |||