Agenda item

i)  Adoption, Surrogacy and Fostering Policy and Procedure

ii)  Shared Parental Leave and Pay Policy and Procedure

iii)  Domestic Violence and Abuse Policy and Procedure

The Committee considered a report which sought approval for the following three revised policies and procedures:

·  Adoption, Surrogacy and Fostering;

·  Shared Parental Leave and Pay; and

·  Domestic Violence and Abuse.

The main changes to each of the policies were summarised and it was noted that the updated versions would ensure the Council was in line with current legislation; provide greater clarity to employees about their entitlements; and incorporate best practice tools and information to assist managers in implementing the policies.  Consultation had taken place with the Trades Unions, Employee Engagement Forum and Disability Forum and the changes had been positively received.

Members discussed several issues including the policy relating to fostering and the need to ensure managers recognised their responsibilities and supported fosterers.  The revised policy and procedure reflected the importance of the role of managers and included practical advice for them.  It was agreed that the revised documents would help raise awareness and encourage a culture where staff who fostered were properly supported.  The links between the domestic violence and abuse policy and the policies for staff relating to alcohol and drugs were raised.  It was responded that a consistent approach was taken to encourage staff to raise issues and provide signposting to the most appropriate support.

At the conclusion of the discussion, the policies and procedures for adoption, surrogacy and fostering; shared parental leave and pay; and domestic violence and abuse were approved.

Resolved –  That the Adoption, Surrogacy and Fostering, the Shared Parental leave and Pay and the Domestic Violence Abuse Policies and Procedures be approved.