CONSERVATIVES ENSURE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN IN CARE (02/07/02)

Regular visits by Conservative county councillors to care homes in Somerset has prompted the County Council to alter their policy on holidays.

Conservative councillors, Elaine Waymouth and Christopher Wolverson, have ensured that children are not taken out of school during term time.

Elaine Waymouth, Conservative spokeswoman for Care and Safety, commented, ‘we believe the education of our children is just too important to neglect. We discovered recently that a care home was allowing children to visit Disney Land during term time.

‘We must remember the importance of education. It is vital that children do not miss out. As a County Council we must set an example.

‘I am reassured that after Conservative suggestion, the County Council will restrict these adventures to school holidays.

‘Nevertheless, the holiday plans were a terrific success. We were delighted to see that the children had organised and undertaken their own fundraising for this trip. It was very positive to see them working together in order to meet the costs.

‘Similarly, it is reassuring that in Somerset, children in care do not miss out on the chance to travel abroad. It is wonderful that opportunities like this are available to our children.

‘This is a terrific good news story and I’m proud to be a County Councillor for an organisation that respects and supports the children in our care.’

ENDS
For further information:
Elaine Waymouth: 01823 451802