Magna Charter

Contents

  1. Overview
  2. What we will do
  3. If a promise hasn't been kept

Overview

The Magna Charter is our commitment to avoid unhelpful changes in your life. If changes do happen, we promise we'll help you understand what's going on and make sure your views are listened to.

Download the Magna Charter commitment

The Magna Charter contains some of South Tyneside's key promises to children and young people who are looked after. The promises shown in the Magna Charter were chosen by MAGIC (our Children in Care Council) and include: changes to social worker, school and placements.

Here's a more complete list of promises that South Tyneside is making to help avoid unhelpful changes in your life.

What we will do

We will:

  • always tell you when a social worker is changing and why
  • tell you that a change is happening before we introduce you to a new worker.
  • endeavour to have a handover visit (this not occurring will only happen in exceptional circumstances) and we will communicate changes of social worker to your IRO prior to this occurring
  • move placements in a planned way unless 'it is not safe'
  • involve you in the move
  • tell you why you are moving
  • not (never) move your belongings in black bin bags
  • give you information about all your placements in advance. This will include:
    • Name of carers
    • Details and age of other young people
    • The place
  • listen to your views about your placement
  • not move your school except in exceptional circumstances
  • proactively support and promote 'Staying Put' (this is your right to stay with your foster after your 18th birthday)
  • value your family relationships
  • support your relationships with your friends
  • try to stop issues escalating
  • try to keep change to a minimum

If a promise hasn't been kept

If you think any of the promises above haven't been kept, here's what you can do:

  • Speak to your foster carer or social worker and tell them what's not right
  • Phone NYAS 0808 808 1001 (Advocacy support for young people)
  • Make a complaint by emailing complaints@southtyneside.gov.uk