Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Director of Children’s Services providing an update on the support and guidance provided to support adults working with Children in Care who are LGBT+.

The Children and Families Advisory Panel received a report from the Director of Children’s Services providing an update on the support and guidance provided to support adults working with Children in Care who are LGBT+.

The Panel learnt of a good practise document which was now in circulation, published by Hampshire County Council in September 2018. This guidance was developed in recognition of the fact that children and young people who are identify as LGBT+ are potentially vulnerable and are likely to need and want access to advice and support as they grow and develop. The main aims of the document were to enable young people to feel more confident about seeking help and to provide helpful and positive information in relation to LGBT+ issues.

In response to questions members heard that;

·         The effect of these issues, and other people’s reactions, on Young People’s mental health is being considered and there are different ways in which this is supported.

·         Guidance documents exist for Schools and those who support Children in Care, but in time these can be adapted for all Parents and Children to access.

Resolved: That the Children and Families Advisory Panel note and welcome the content of the report and the guidance developed to support adults working with children in care who are LGBT+.