The Corporate Parenting Panel was scheduled to discuss a range of important issues concerning children in care and care leavers. Key topics included updates on Warwickshire's children's homes, performance data, and the crucial area of missing children and exploitation. The panel was also set to review annual reports on adoption and fostering, and to develop its work programme for the coming year.

Updates from the Chair, Directors and Senior Officers

The panel was scheduled to receive updates from the Chair, Directors, and Senior Officers on matters within the committee's remit.

Voice, Influence & Change Team

An update was planned from the Voice, Influence & Change Team, which works to ensure children in care and care leavers have their voices heard and can influence services. This team is responsible for initiatives such as the Youth Council and the Children in Care Council (CICC).

Warwickshire Children's Homes

Verbal updates were scheduled to be presented regarding each of Warwickshire's Children's Homes. This would have provided information on the operational status and any recent developments concerning these residential facilities.

Performance Data

The panel was due to review performance data, likely covering key metrics related to children in care and care leavers. This would have provided an overview of how services are performing against set targets.

Adoption and Fostering - Annual Reports

Annual reports for both adoption and fostering services were scheduled for discussion. These reports typically detail the activity, performance, and future plans of these vital services, which aim to provide stable and loving homes for children. The Adoption Central England (ACE) Annual Report 2025-2026 was included in the papers, detailing their work across multiple local authorities, including Warwickshire. The Warwickshire County Council Adoption Service Annual Report 2025-2026 was also provided, focusing specifically on the local authority's adoption activity.

Missing and Exploitation of Children in Care and Care Leavers

A presentation was scheduled from Vicky Woodfield, Head of Service Safeguarding Communities, concerning the issue of missing children in care and care leavers, and the exploitation they may face. This is a critical safeguarding issue that requires ongoing attention and strategic planning.

Development of the Work Programme and Items on the Forward Plan

The panel was scheduled to discuss and agree its work programme for the upcoming period. This involves identifying key areas of focus and planning future agenda items to ensure the panel effectively addresses its responsibilities. The Corporate Parenting Panel Work Programme for 2026/2027 was provided, outlining planned discussions for future meetings.