Decision details

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Aspiration, Children and Lifelong Learning seeking approval for the Local Placement Plan proposal.

(i)  To approve the Local Placement Plan business case (appendix 1).

(ii)  To delegate authority to Executive Director Children & Families service, following consultation with Cabinet member for Aspiration, Children and Lifelong Learning, to take necessary steps required to implement the proposals in (i) above.

The Local Placement Plan will support the delivery of the council’s outcomes, namely children and young people get a good start in life. Evidence identifies that most young people prefer to live locally and that their outcomes are often higher when local placements can be made. As corporate parents of the young people who may be impacted by these proposals, it is our responsibility to ensure we provide the best possible care for these young people.

An alternative option to tender for providers to directly manage homes provided by Southampton City Council has been rejected for a number of reasons as stated in Appendix 1, but primarily because it does not provide the council the control over the provision and the increased reputational risks.

An alternative option to do nothing and continue with current and existing contractual arrangements has been rejected for a number of reasons as stated in Appendix 1, but primarily because it does not provide the council with control over the shaping of the local market and educational attainment can sometimes be compromised.