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28 May 99

NEW SERVICE PLAN FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE WITH COMPLEX NEEDS

A new three year Service Plan for Children and Young People will be presented to the Borough of Poole's Social Services Committee on Thursday 27 May.



The Plan, developed by the Borough of Poole in partnership with the Health Authority, Police, Poole Hospital, Dorset HealthCare NHS Trusts, Probation Service and voluntary sector, sets out actions to provide extra support for children with complex needs.



Priorities for the next 3 years are:

· developing services to children under four to help prevent problems arising later

· support for parents to promote parenting skills

· improved temporary accommodation for homeless families

· further development of mental health services for young people

· continuing improvements in services for children:

- who cannot live with their families

- who need protection from serious harm

- with disabilities and their families

- who are young carer.

· developing new multi-agency approaches to help children:

- whose behaviour may lead to exclusion from school

- whose criminal behaviour may bring them before the courts

- who need education, advice or support in relation to homelessness, drug or

alcohol misuse, sexual health, or young parenthood



Cllr Mrs Jane James, Chairman of the Social Services Committee said: "Young people needing extra help may be coping with a variety of issues ranging from a physical disability to serious emotional problems. They might have special educational needs; be homeless because of domestic violence or unable to live at home because of family breakdown. Some young people need extra help because they provide care for an adult or other children in the family."



Cllr Charles Meachin, Vice-Chairman of the Social Services Committee added: "Young people dealing with issues such as these, can have important and complex needs. Now all the agencies involved in the plan will be working together with families to meet those needs."



Copies of the plan are available in local libraries or can be obtained from Sheena Parkin, Policy Officer, Children and Families Services on (01202) 261518

Jan Thurgood,Head of Children & Families - tel. 01202 261516