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Â鶹ÊÓƵ is looking to invest in and expand its residential children's home provision.

In line with the Council's priority of supporting young people in need, it is looking to increase the amount of residential beds available through the building of new residential children's homes.

Currently, there is only one residential home in the Borough with just four beds. Combined with a lack of foster carers, this means that it can be very difficult to find enough places in the Borough for young people in need.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "Young people cannot always be accommodated in the Borough and sometimes have to go as far as Scotland and Lancashire because of a lack of places nationally.

"We want all our children and young people to have the best start in life. For those children who can't be with their birth family, it is important their lives remain as stable as possible.  We are keen to help our young people to stay in the Borough, in their same schools, and close to family and friends."

The Council has a strong track record in children's residential care. The Families First service, which provides outreach support and short breaks, was rated as Outstanding while Foxden, which provides short breaks for children with disabilities, was rated Good.

Councillor Ellison added: "We have a duty of care towards our looked-after children and are determined to provide the best possible care for them.

"Increasing demand for children's social care services has led to a rise in demand for residential placements. As we have the necessary expertise and experience in this area we plan to expand our provision so that our young people will be able to grow up in the communities they call home."

The Council is always looking for new foster carers. Anyone interested in fostering is asked to visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/fostering or contact a fostering officer on (0191) 423 8500 or email fostering@southtyneside.gov.uk