Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Director of Children’s Services to inform the Corporate Parenting Board about Children’s Services campaign to find 150 new fostering households for children in Hampshire by the end of 2023, and ask for the support of Corporate Parenting Board members.

The Board received a report and presentation from the Director of Children’s Services to inform them about the Children’s Services campaign to find 150 new fostering households for children in Hampshire by the end of 2023, and ask for their support.

The Board heard that the campaign was taking a fundraising style approach with a child focussed message that was built on research. The campaign was tied into national awareness campaigns

The officer explained that the target is to increase the number of new foster carers by 150 by the end of 2023. To date the number achieved was 33.

Members were asked to help with local launch events, engage with district councils, identify venues, help with guest lists and create local interest.

The Board was asked to follow the campaign on social media and feedback any ideas they have with the team.

Members suggested that:

·         Officers contact parish councils to get items included in their newsletters

·         Communication should be at each level from parish councils to local MP’s.

Resolved:

The Corporate Parenting Board agreed to formally support and be champions for the Open Your Door campaign, to find 150 new fostering households for children in Hampshire by the end of 2023.

The Corporate Parenting Board members agreed to help the Fostering Recruitment and Assessment Team access opportunities for engagement, with district councils and support local campaign activity with districts.