Speaking at an NCH conference in London on children's well-being, MrBalls announced the publication of three consultation documents relatedto the Children's Plan, which will explore legislative options forstrengthening Children's Trusts and the role of schools and localauthorities in promoting pupil well-being.
'In the Children's Plan, we committed to look at the way that Children'sTrusts were working in bringing together all the different agencies thatsupport the well-being of children and young people in a local area,' hesaid. 'The conclusion we're reaching is that there is a case forstrengthening the legislative basis for Children's Trusts.'
The consultation will consider whether each area should be required tohave a Children and Young People's Plan; whether the 'duty toco-operate', which currently applies to local authorities and PCTs,should be extended to schools and colleges; and whether new laws areneeded to strengthen the framework for Children and Young People'sPlans.
Making the creation of Children's Trust boards a statutory requirementis also being considered. Other measures include issuing new guidancefor schools outlining their duty to promote the well-being ofpupils.
Mr Balls added, 'We think strengthening the legislation is the rightthing to make sure there is proper area-wide accountability for thewell-being of children and young people. But it's very important for usto hear the voice of the voluntary sector before we make up ourminds.'
- Further information: The consultation is open for responses by 25September at www.dfes.gov.uk/consultations.
