Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions and officer responses were noted.

DECISION

1.    To note the progress made in establishing the new Regional Adoption Agency, and the review of practice and performance in the first six months of operation.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN AND CULTURE (D. JONES)

(Divisional Director, Children’s Social Care (R. Baldwin)

(Service Manager, Regulated Services (L-M. Minnis)

Councillor Danny Hassell, Cabinet Member for Children and Schools, introduced the update report on the ‘Adoption London East’ Regional Adoption Agency. In particular he highlighted the work that had been undertaken to bring the services together and that now they were looking for it to improve outcomes and performance. It was noted that performance data was improving and the service continued to do well when compared with other regions but that there were still improvements that could be made including around effective working with the courts.

The Mayor noted that there would be regular performance monitoring and that the Corporate Parenting Board would be taking a key role in this. He noted the Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions and officer responses and agreed the recommendation as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note the progress made in establishing the new Regional Adoption Agency, and the review of practice and performance in the first six months of operation.