Dawn Bowden MS, Minister for Children and Social Care
I am pleased to announce the publication today of a public consultation on the first phase of a review of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 Part 6 Code of Practice (Looked after and Accommodated Children).
This public consultation is seeking views on proposals for the following areas:
- a dedicated corporate parenting chapter which will expand upon the guidance on the local authorities’ role as corporate parents;
- strengthen the voice of the child specifically within care and support planning and placements;
- recommendations from care experienced children on undertaking placement moves and review meetings;
- an update on terminology and legislation in the current version of the Code which was issued in April 2018.
The second phase of the review of the Code will take place early in the next Senedd term and will include updates around housing and homelessness, and care leavers.
The publication consultation will last for 12 weeks and will close on 27 October. We will be holding engagement events as part of this consultation, this will include engagement with children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced care in Wales. These events will take place in October.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be happy to do so.