Decision status: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)
Is Key decision?: No
Is subject to call in?: No
To consider a report from the Director of
Children's Services, regarding an update on the Independent
Reviewing Service and Safeguarding Unit
The Panel received a report from the Director of Children’s Services which provided an update of the work of the Independent Reviewing Service (IRS) and Safeguarding Unit. The report was accompanied by the annual audit of care plans and care planning for children looked after by the authority.
The Panel heard that the performance of the IRS and Safeguarding Unit remained strong and the Care Plan Audit highlights many positive areas. However there are some areas that require improvement in relation to planning for children for whom the authority has a corporate parenting responsibility.
The Panel heard that the IRS had a high workload but the number of Children on Child Protection or Child Looked After Plans remained stable. Currently, 80% of reviews are being completed on time with the remainder being only days late meaning there is no risk of drift. A recent Bright Spots survey found that Hampshire children who are looked after are happy although there were concerns from some 8 to 11 year olds around bullying at school..
In response to questions members heard that;
Resolved: That the Children and Families Advisory Panel;
And
Publication date: 06/11/2017
Date of decision: 17/10/2017
Decided at meeting: 17/10/2017 - Children and Families Advisory Panel
Accompanying Documents: