Councillor Robin Julian was appointed as the new Fostering Member Champion for our Children’s Scrutiny Committee today (Friday November 21).
He was first elected to Devon County Council in 2013 serving until 2017 and has been elected again this year – he previously served as a Special Constable in Sussex.
This new role demonstrates the Committee’s determination to ensure fostering remains a priority, with robust scrutiny, continuous improvement, and the voices of foster carers and children in care at the heart of decision-making.
He will work closely with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, the Corporate Parenting Panel, and senior managers to ensure fostering services are effectively scrutinised, and continuously improved.
He will lead the scrutiny of fostering services, push for more recruitment and retention of foster carers, and make sure the voices of children in care are heard.
Cllr Julian, the local member for Bideford West and Hartland, said:
“Foster carers give children the love and stability they deserve.
“My job is to make sure that their voices shape our decisions and that Devon continues to improve the support we offer. I want more people to see fostering as the rewarding role it truly is.
“My priority is to help Devon recruit more foster carers and ensure they feel valued and supported in the work they do.”
Councillor Frank Biederman, Chair of the Children’s Scrutiny Committee, added:
“I am delighted that Robin has agreed to take on this important role. Fostering is central to the lives of many children in Devon, and having a dedicated Champion ensures that their needs remain at the forefront of our work. Robin’s commitment will help us strengthen scrutiny and drive positive change for families and carers across the county.”
