MPs highlight need for care champions
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
A truly independent voice is needed to make sure the needs and wishes of looked-after children are properly considered and acted upon, according to an influential group of MPs.
The government should give serious consideration to providing children in care with advocates who can work on their behalf, said the Children, Schools and Families Select Committee.
Its report on the Children and Young Persons Bill, welcomed a proposal to let local authorities contract out responsibility for all or part of their services for looked-after young people. But it emphasised continuity and stability of care of looked-after children must be the top priority.
The MPs praised plans to provide a £2,000 bursary to looked-after children who gain a university place, but recommended a broader system where looked-after children in post-16 education and training would also get extra money.
The committee also said it was concerned the Bill did not require academy schools to have a designated teacher responsible for looked-after pupils' education, as is the case in normal state schools.
