12. What priority will the Minister place on policies to improve the outcomes for looked after children? OAQ(5)0003(CC)

I thank the Member for his question. All children in care should have the same life chances as other children. This is a key priority for me, and I will reconvene the improving outcomes for children strategic group to continue its work and advise on how best we deliver a national approach for looked-after children.

Can I commend his general statement: that our expectations for looked-after children should be similar, if not exactly the same, as for the rest of the population? I’ve been in this Assembly now a little over 17 years, and I’ve heard repeatedly Ministers say we’re on the cusp of a breakthrough for looked-after children. It’s never quite arrived. It’s all our responsibility—those who scrutinise these policies as much as the Ministers’. But, really, Wales could lead the way in the UK, and indeed in Europe, in getting this vital area of public policy right.

I agree with the Member. I am determined to work with him so that we can provide the reassurances he seeks.