It has been a huge privilege to Chair Young Lives Leeds over the past years, to support, advocate and at times engage in some challenging conversations.  I was fortunate to take over the role from Ann Pemberton who had Chaired YLL from its formative years.  She had completed a thorough review of the partnership and established solid partnership arrangements with Leeds City Council Children Leeds.  Leeds City Council Children’s services had just been assessed as Outstanding and future looked very positive. My task initially appeared to be simple, build upon existing partnership strengthen the role of the advocates, and broaden participation.

 

I did not anticipate the additional challenge of three changes in Director of Children’s Service, a pandemic and the level of disinvestment in Children and Young Peoples services at a national level.  We also continue to work through key changes in personnel at all levels in all sectors including the demise of CCGs and the emergence of ICB and how can we forget a Pandemic and the impact on children and their families which is only just beginning to be apparent.

 

Despite these challenges as a partnership, we continue to grow in strength.  Our members continue to work tirelessly to improve outcomes for children young people and their families and demonstrate leadership throughout our sector whilst contributing to many key areas including SEND, Safeguarding, Scrutiny, Youth Work Review, Child Friendly Leeds, Trauma Informed City, Early Help Strategy, 14-19 Partnership Board and the Future in Mind Board.

 

Throughout my time as Chair  I have been directly supported by our advocates who directly help to shape our meetings agendas and support one another to tackle key challenges and pursue new opportunities.  I would also like to thank Ann Crossland, Carl Robertshaw and all the staff at VAL and the membership of  YLL for all of their help and guidance.

 

The future is very bright despite the significant challenges that post pandemic, public sector cuts and cost of Living crises brings.  I am very excited about our new Co Chair arrangements.  I have spent many years working directly with Helen Hart and Julia Preston, I know the partnership is in very good hands.