Young people shape plan for future of children's services (Twickenham & Richmond Liberal Democrats)

Young people shape plan for future of children's services

August 26, 2009 10:34 AM

children plan • A NEW way of working to improve the lives of children, young people and their families in the borough has been set out in a new, ambitious plan.

The Children and Young People's Plan 2009-13 sets out a single and clear vision: 'to ensure that all children and young people who live and learn in the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames, whatever their background, lead a safe, happy and healthy life, with opportunities to learn, develop and fulfill their potential.'

The plan was developed by the Richmond upon Thames Children and Young People's Trust, which brings together the key services for children in the borough, including the Council, health services, schools, colleges, police and the voluntary sector. Uniquely in this plan, local children and young people, through representative groups such as the Care Council for Children Looked After, have set out what they will do to improve the lives of other young people in the borough.

Commenting on the plan Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children's Services and Culture, said: "This plan sets out the priorities and targets for all the organisations which provide services for our young people. Every child and young person in the borough has the right to be safe, healthy and have opportunities to fulfill their potential. To ensure this happens it is essential that we look at our strengths and weaknesses very honestly and decide the best way forward - this is what the plan does.

"We have set some very tough targets, which have been agreed by all our partners. It is a truly shared vision and I'm particularly pleased that local young people have contributed their own chapter; something which I believe is quite unique. There are always going to be new challenges so the plan is flexible with the priorities being review every year. I am looking forward to working with local services and young people to make our vision reality."

The Youth groups contributing to the plan were: the Care Council for Children Looked After; the School Council; the Youth and; aand the Youth Parliament

The 8 priorities for 2009-10 are:

1. Children and young people requiring protection are safeguarded effectively

2. Teenage conceptions and sexually transmitted infections are reduced

3. All children and young people with additional needs, disabilities and learning difficulties get the support they need including increased and equitable access to short breaks.

4. Children and young people enjoy good emotional and mental health and get

the support they need to address mental health issues quickly and effectively when they arise.

5. All primary schools improve pupil attainment and achievement, with children in all areas of the borough able to access high quality places through the primary stage.

6. All secondary schools improve pupil attainment and achievement, so that all

are in line with, or above, the national average.

7. Pupils with special and additional educational needs (including those with

School Action and School Action Plus support) will make good progress at school to fulfil their potential.

8. All children and young people can access a range of enjoyable things to do and places to go.

Richmond upon Thames Liberal Democrats: