Children’s Social Care Performance Cover Report (Item 7a), Data Report (Item 7b) and Explanatory Document (Item 7c)
Minutes:
The following witnesses were welcomed to the meeting:-
Mel John-Ross, Service Director, Children’s Social Care and Safeguarding, BMBC
Councillor Margaret Bruff, Cabinet Spokesperson for People (Safeguarding)
Members were given an overview of the report circulated, which provided data to the end of July, 2018. Of significant note was the increase in numbers of Early Help interventions closing, which was due to a recent exercise to chase information from agencies in order to ensure records were up to date.
The number of children with a child protection plan had increased, but did not present any cause for concern and all visits were on time, with cases subject to regular review and oversight.
The numbers of looked after children had reduced to 290, with rates lower than the national and statistical neighbour averages. Performance in relation to adoption was positive, however timescales remained challenging.
Proportions of care leavers define as NEET (not in employment, education or training) had declined, but it was noted that this agenda still needed focus and drive.
Though school attendance for those in care was high when compared with national rates, the need for continued high attendance rates to ensure positive outcomes was acknowledged.
Members heard how average caseloads had increased across many teams, however those for the Disabled Children’s Team remained stable following a reduction from January.
The committee was reassured of the general positive picture the performance report provided.
Questions were invited from Members and in the ensuing challenge and discussion, the following points were noted:-
Following transition to school or between schools it was noted that schools will be made aware which children were already known to social care. Assistance is given to schools, including via the training given to safeguarding leads, so that schools are best placed to identify children requiring support.
With regards to caseloads, Members asked whether the increase in social worker numbers impacted on this. It was noted that there had been a significant investment in social workers, and generally retention was high. However some did move on, including being promoted internally which did leave some vacancies which were being recruited to. It was acknowledged that resources had to be managed effectively, and it was important to ensure teams were supported.
In relation to children with Special Educational Needs, questions were raised as to whether there were difficulties in accommodating any needs in placements. Assurances were given that for all Looked After Children who had been identified in the category, appropriate placements were available and all needs identified were being met.
With reference to the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) Members challenged the drop in completion rates, and in response it was acknowledged that this needed to be improved and should be driven by Social Workers, and also by Fostering Support Groups.
Questions were raised in relation to home schooling and whether any Looked After Children (LAC) were home-schooled, and it was confirmed that none were currently.
In relation to the recent children’s services peer review it was noted that the findings were mostly positive and the service was in the process of implementing the recommendations. It was agreed that that the full report would be shared with the committee.
Members noted the offer of training on understanding the performance report should any new or existing members require this.
RESOLVED:-
(i) That the witnesses be thanked for their attendance;
(ii) That the reports be noted;
(iii) That the peer review report be circulated to Members of the Committee.