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Suffolk County Council to review support for children in care

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk County Council's Cabinet will examine its annual report on support for children in care and care leavers at a meeting on 24 July. The report outlines the council's work as a "corporate parent" over the past year.

Suffolk County Council's Cabinet will review the Corporate Parenting Annual Report for 2023-2024 following a cabinet meeting on July 24th, 2024.

The report details how the council has fulfilled its duties to support children in care and care leavers up to age 25.

As a "corporate parent", the council aims to:

  • Act in the best interests of children and young people in care

  • Promote their physical and mental wellbeing

  • Encourage them to express their views and take these into account

  • Ensure they have access to services to help them reach their potential

  • Provide safe and stable homes, relationships and education or work

  • Prepare them for adulthood and independent living

The report will be presented alongside feedback from Chat2Change (C2C), Suffolk's Children in Care Council.

This gives young people in care a voice in shaping the services that support them.

The document notes that the Council's Corporate Parenting Services are delivered against significant national and local pressures across the care system.

These include mental health support, a shortage of appropriate care places for children with very complex needs, and the high cost of these places.

If endorsed by the Cabinet, a final version of the annual report will be published on the Suffolk County Council website.

The Corporate Parenting Board ensures the council and its partners fulfil their corporate parenting duties. It sets and reviews annual objectives, hears from care-experienced young people, and receives reports from services supporting children in care and care leavers.

Ipswich.co.uk will also review the report and publish its findings in the coming days. Remember to subscribe to our daily roundup so you don't miss it.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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