Putting Children First

12.01.04pm GMT Tue 30th Jan 2007

Liberal Democrats want the best for every child in Oxfordshire. "At present, " said Jean Fooks, Liberal Democrat spokesperson on children, "there is not enough support for those who need it, both in and out of school, and the Liberal Democrat Alternative Budget proposes providing extra help for them."

In particular, schools need more help with children who are going through difficult times, or whose behaviour is disrupting their and their fellow-pupils' learning. Liberal Democrats therefore propose providing two full-time staff to assist before problems escalate; to start in the schools most in need. Liberal Democrats also propose funding five extra places at Pupil Referral Units or in school where possible to enable these children to keep learning. Lib Dems reject the proposed Tory cut in Educational Social Workers. Jean added, "We think that these staff are essential and particularly for the most vulnerable children, those in Council care."

To support families in difficulties Liberal Democrats propose an extra three family support workers, to reduce the risk of children being taken into care, and are proposing measures to ensure the County's foster carers are adequately rewarded and do not lose out financially in between foster placements.

Jean said, "For those families with disabled children we propose extra hours of respite care for their child, to help them to get a break for themselves and their families. This can make the difference between carers being able to cope and not.

"We are appalled at the proposal to reduce the capability of the Council to develop the 14-19 strategy, which will mean failing to provide education appropriate to many children's needs. We are therefore opposing this cut.

Our proposals will help provide the best support and education for all, but especially for the most vulnerable children, to give them the best possible start in life."