Norfolk council to bid for £1.5 million to reduce numbers in care

Norfolk County Council is looking to bid for £1.5 million to help reduce the number of children in care and provide support to vulnerable families.

The bid is to be discussed at the council’s Policy and Resources Committee shortly. Members will hear about proposals to target a social impact bond at those of going into care, as well as those already in care, with a plan to return home.

The council has already received £36,500 of developmental funding from the Big Lottery Life Chances Fund to bring in support to help shape the bid for the SIB.

Members are now being asked to endorse the bid, so a full application can be submitted.

If successful the scheme would see up to £1.5 million in funding from the Life Chances Fund to top up the money paid back to the investor, with the county council only having to pay back the money if the SIB achieves results.

Cliff Jordan, leader of Norfolk County Council, said: “Reducing the number of children in care is a key priority of this council – we know that most children do better if they are supported to stay within their families.

“We have already agreed to invest £12 million over the next four years to transform Children’s Services to help reduce demand on our services and improve children’s life chances.

“This bid will complement that programme by bringing in external investment to fund proven targeted therapy and support for those families most in need.”