Havering’s children’s services is to receive a £2.4million boost over the next two years, it was announced today.
The investment from the Department of Education (DfE) will be used to bridge the gap between children and adult social care and develop a project that works with families.
Havering Council hopes to create a tailored care plan for each young person rather than work under a “one size fits all philosophy”.
Cabinet member for children and learning, Cllr Robert Benham said: “This £2.4million will have a huge impact on the services we provide for young people who need our support in the borough, and shows great confidence from the government in our ability to deliver.
“Through innovation, enhanced resources and working with the young people themselves, we will design a service that truly meets their needs.
“A large focus will be on keeping young people out of care in the first place, enabling them to stay with their families wherever possible, ensuring that those who do need care get it in a consistent way, and those leaving care are given the very best life chances in education and employment.”
The cash will also be used to develop the existing Families Together team to work in collaboration with families rather than forcing options on them.
The project’s staff will work intensively to support families to remain together.
Where that is not possible, children will be placed with foster carers near to areas they are familiar with.
Minister for vulnerable children and families, Edward Timpson, said: “Childhood should be a happy and safe time in all our lives. “We must do all we can to make sure this is the reality for every child.
“By harnessing the passion and expertise of those who care for children, we can provide them with life-changing support.
“By giving professionals the freedom to develop new and innovative ways of working, this fantastic project will help make a real difference to children’s lives.
“I look forward to seeing it deliver great results in the future.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here