Recommendation WATE-(65): Local authorities prepare costed development plans for children's services provision

Local authorities, in collaboration with voluntary and other relevant organisations and acting together with other local authorities where appropriate, should prepare costed development plans for children's services as a prelude to the proposed nationwide review, such plans to ensure (amongst other things) that:37, 62(iii) (a) there is an adequate range of residential care provision of appropriate quality, including secure provision, within reasonable reach of a child's family or other relevant roots;Para 54.21 (b) such residential provision includes safe places where children can recover when relationships break down; (c) as in (a), there is an adequate range of fostering facilities available of similar quality and accessibility;Para 54.23 (d) all residential placements are designed to be developmental and therapeutic rather than merely custodial; (e) full educational opportunities are available for looked after children, including remedial education.24, 58(v)