Councillors received a presentation yesterday from looked after children and care leavers on what makes a good corporate parent.

Four young people, supported by staff from the Children’s Rights Service, told councillors what they thought made a good corporate parent and how they could support them in the future.

They asked councillors to make sure everyone recognised their role in acting as a corporate parent, and ensuring they have the same chances in life as other young people, they asked for two councillors to become champions to represent their interests, one in the south of Aberdeenshire and one in the North, they asked councillors to meet with their group at least once a year to better learn and understand about their experiences, and to set up a page on the council’s website where young people can be kept informed about how councillors and staff are supporting them.

The young people are to be congratulated for their presentation skills. They brought a breath of fresh air to a sometimes stuffy council chamber! Their views on what they need us to do are very welcome.

I certainly look forward to supporting them and eagerly await the launch of the book and DVD on corporate parenting which they have produced.