A report outlining the three-year plan to support care-experienced young people in Aberdeen was approved by councillors this week.
The Corporate Parenting Plan 2026-29 sets out the council’s priorities for delivering on its statutory responsibilities to provide children and young people with the support they need and explains how these priorities are informed by the progress made across children’s services over the last three years.
The plan was approved at the Education and Children’s Services committee and committee convener, Councillor Martin Greig, said: “The plan up to 2029 has been produced after consulting with our care-experienced young people. It is vital to listen to their voices. This new plan reflects issues which are important to them and to the Council as corporate parents. There is a clear focus on supporting health and wellbeing needs.
“We are committed to the work of addressing practical questions which affect the young people, including attainment, employment and housing. It is reassuring that our priorities for the next three years are building on the positive work of the previous three year.”
The plan highlighted the achievements over the 2023-26 period which include:
- The appointment of a full-time Participation and Engagement Officer;
- Co-designing a Kinship Service with children, young people and carers;
- Provision of food pantry to alleviate food poverty in partnership with CFINE;
- Supporting the health and wellbeing of young unaccompanied asylum seekers;
- Delivery of the Bright Spots programme which puts children and young people at the heart of decision-making.
Committee vice-convener, Council Lee Fairfull, said: “The Corporate Parenting Plan highlights a range of excellent work. It showcases many positive outcomes that align with our Local Outcome Improvement Plan ambitions to overcome barriers to attainment for children and young people in our care.
"Importantly, the plan also identifies areas where further improvements can be made. By continuing to work collaboratively with children, young people, carers and partner organisations, I am confident that we will achieve even better outcomes in the years ahead."
The committee also approved the recommendation that the Chief Social Work Officer bring an annual report setting out activity that delivers the Corporate Parenting Plan to Committee in spring 2027.