THERE are currently just over 300 looked after children in the county which is higher than the national average.

The new Corporate Parenting strategy has been approved by Herefordshire Council's cabinet.

The strategy highlights the priorities of Herefordshire Council as corporate parents, which means the responsibility for providing the best possible care and safeguarding for the children who are looked after by the council.

Cllr Jonathan Lester, cabinet member for young people and children's wellbeing, said the strategy aims to improve the best outcomes for children who are vulnerable or need help in any way.

Gill Cox, head of looked after children, said: "We are looking at how we can raise the standard of care and the outcomes that looked after children receive."

At the moment they do not achieve as well as their peers and face inequality.

The current number of looked after children is slightly over 300 children, which equates to a rate of 80 children per 10,000.

This is significantly higher than the national average of 60 per 10,000.

Ms Cox said they are addressing the issue, for example, making sure those children who can go safely home to extended family do so.

There are eight priorities in the strategy which include, for example, that all looked after children have a safe and stable home.

Cllr Sebastian Bowen asked if it was appropriate for children refugees to be placed in Hereford, as the city cannot always meet their needs.

He said, for example, he knew of children who were very devout and wanted to attend an Iranian orthodox church, but were unable to in Herefordshire, while there are four in Birmingham.

But Cllr Lester said they are very proud that they are taking care of these children and they are doing their best to help in any way.

Cllr Bowen added: "I agree, Herefordshire is a great place to be. Let's hope they find that as well."