Corporate parenting principles26A

1

An authority must, in carrying out functions in relation to persons to whom this Article applies, have regard to the need—

a

to act in their best interests, and promote their well-being;

b

to encourage them to express their views, wishes and feelings;

c

to take into account their views, wishes and feelings;

d

to help them gain access to, and make the best use of, services provided by the authority and any relevant partner;

e

to promote high aspirations, and seek to secure the best outcomes, for them;

f

for them to be safe, and for stability in their home lives, relationships and education or work; and

g

to prepare them for adulthood and independent living.

2

This Article applies to—

a

children who are looked after by an authority;

b

relevant children within the meaning given by Article 34B(2); and

c

persons aged under 25 (or such other age as may be prescribed) who are former relevant children within the meaning given by Article 34D(1).

3

In this Article—

• “relevant partner” means—

  1. a

     children’s authority within the meaning given by section 9 of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015;

  2. b

     other children’s service provider within the meaning given by section 9 of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015;

• “well-being” has the meaning given by section 1 of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015.

4

An authority must have regard to any guidance given by the Department as to the performance of the duty under paragraph (1).