COUNCIL leaders from all parties in East Sussex have joined forces to show their commitment to children and young people in care.
Leaders of all six political groups on East Sussex County Council have signed a pledge outlining what looked-after children and young people moving from care into adult life are entitled to expect.
The pledge was also signed by young people from East Sussex Children in Care Council, which represents looked-after children, in a ceremony at County Hall, in Lewes.
Cllr Sylvia Tidy, East Sussex County Council lead member for children and families, said: “Our responsibility to children in care goes beyond providing them with a safe and loving home.
“It’s vital that they are able to live healthy, active lives and receive the support they need to develop into happy, well-rounded, confident adults.
“It’s great to see leaders of all party groups taking the time to show their support and commitment to our looked-after children.”
In the pledge, the council promises:
– To help children find the best available home, where they feel safe, cared about and treated well, for as long as it is needed.
– To help children stay in touch with their family and friends, where it is safe and appropriate
– To encourage children to stay fit and healthy, follow their hobbies and interests, have fun and explore the opportunity to take part in volunteering
– To help them do the best they possibly can at school or in further education, training and employment
– To ensure children have a social worker who will get to know them well, keep in contact and listen to what they say
– To give them all the support and help they need to make a success of moving on from care to adult life
The pledge was signed by Cllr Keith Glazier, Conservative leader of the council, Cllr David Tutt, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, Cllr Trevor Webb, leader of the Labour group, Cllr Phil Howson, leader of the UKIP group, Cllr Ruth O’Keeffe, leader of the Independent group and Cllr Stephen Shing, leader of the Independent Democrat group.