A vital support service for families facing the risk of having their children taken into care is set to be discontinued, raising concerns among local residents. According to BBC Lincolnshire, Safe Families, a church-based volunteer group, has been providing essential assistance, including overnight stays, practical help, and advice. However, Lincolnshire County Council has announced plans to end the contract, citing that similar services are available through other schemes, which would save the authority £133,000 annually.
The decision has sparked significant criticism during a recent meeting of the council's children and culture committee. Conservative councillor Lindsey Cawrey expressed her dismay, calling the move a cut to a crucial service for vulnerable children. "Why is this proposal even being considered? It runs counter to everything we stand for as a council," she remarked, highlighting the potential negative impact on families in need.
Labour councillor Kev Clarke echoed these concerns, warning of the real consequences this decision could have on families who rely on the service. He pointed out that the service is not only performing well but is also highly valued by both families and professionals in the field.
In response, Reform UK's Natalie Oliver, who holds the children portfolio, defended the council's position, stating that it is not a cut but rather the elimination of a duplicated service. She emphasized the difficult financial situation the council is facing, with rising cost pressures necessitating tough decisions. "We have to make difficult decisions," she said, acknowledging the challenges ahead.
A recent consultation revealed strong support for the Safe Families service, with 92% of respondents indicating that they found it very effective. Despite this, council officers argued that nearly all families benefiting from the edge of care service were also receiving support from other available services. They maintained that emergency foster carers would still be accessible as a last resort.
The council's report recommending the end of the contract stated that families would be better supported through increased targeted, multi-disciplinary help. This approach aims to identify and respond to support needs as soon as concerns arise. However, it also noted that the percentage of families genuinely at risk of having their children taken into care is low, raising questions about the necessity of the service.
The contract is set to conclude on 30 June, with a final decision expected from Oliver soon. As the community waits for further developments, many residents are left pondering the implications of this decision on the most vulnerable families in Lincolnshire.