What more can be done to secure brighter futures for more than 10,000 children in care in London?

On Wednesday, 8 February, the London Assembly Health and Public Services Committee will hold a public hearing to explore the challenges facing children in care and the success of initiatives aimed at improving their prospects.

London has higher than average rates of looked after children, particularly in inner boroughs. Children in care often fare less well than their peers in education and a high proportion have additional educational needs.

The Committee will look at how the Mayor and the Greater London Authority can continue to support children in care, including through the Mayor’s Scholars initiative, which is part of the Time for Action programme.

Members of the Committee will also discuss the following issues with invited experts:

• 
  How services can help children access the support they need without fear of stigma
• Support for post-16 education, employment and training opportunities
• The availability and role of foster carers
• Information and guidance for boroughs and best practice

Victoria Borwick AM, Chair of the Health and Public Services Committee, said:
“Many of London’s children in care face considerable challenges as they grow up. We want to look at what the Mayor can do to help these children and build their aspirations, in a way that supports the work of the boroughs.”

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, 8 February 2012 from 10am in Committee Room 5 at City Hall (The Queen’s Walk, London SE1). Media and members of the public are invited to attend.

The meeting can also be viewed via webcast.

LONDON ASSEMBLY

Holding the Mayor to account and investigating issues that matter to Londoners