Keeping children close - Residential partnership to deliver homes for children and young people in Somerset

Somerset Council require a range of residential homes to meet the needs of our children and young people in care. By working closely together, the council and residential home providers can create a more efficient, stable, and child-focused care system through mutually beneficial contracting arrangements. Our aims are to: o Ensure availability: Guarantee that a certain number of beds are always available for Somerset children in Somerset homes. o Stabilise costs: Provide predictable funding for both the commissioner and provider, which can lead to better financial planning and resource allocation. o Improve outcomes: Foster a collaborative relationship focused on the best interests of the children. o Reduce the need for spot purchasing, which can be more expensive and less predictable. o Better plan for future needs and ensures a stable supply of homes for children in Somerset o Offer providers a steady income stream, allowing for better financial and operational planning. o Work closely with providers to maximise occupancy rates which can ultimately improve service quality and efficiency and encourage provider to provider relationships o Improve communication: Establish strong communication channels to address issues promptly, address any early concerns about the stability of the placement and adapt to changing needs. o Share the risk - involve both parties in decisions about placements, care plans, and service improvements. This workshop with residential providers is the opportunity to discuss mutually beneficial arrangements so we can secure and support our smaller providers. We value your expertise and look forward to learning and sharing best practices together.