Issue - meetings

The Board received a report from the Strategic Director – People, which presented the findings of the recent Joint Targeted Area Inspection (JTAI) of multi-agency response to child exploitation in Halton and its recommendations.

It was reported that the inspection took place between 8 and 12 July 2019 and was conducted by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), HMI Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) and HMI Probation (HMIP).  They undertook a targeted inspection of the multi-agency response to children experiencing or at risk of exploitation, including sexual and criminal exploitation in Halton.

It was noted, that as with the Ofsted Focused Visit in July 2019, the Inspectorates involved did not make a judgement from the JTAI, but provided a narrative letter setting out their findings; outlining strengths and setting out the areas for improvement.  This letter was appended to the report. 

Officers outlined the draft action list prepared in response to the inspection and it was noted that each action would be overseen by its own designated lead officer.

Further to Member’s queries the following was noted:

·       The participation of each agency when considering the cases would now be documented, including conversations, to promote consistency, transparency and assist with arrangements with regards to the next steps;

·       It was acknowledged that a common language needed to be used in all  boroughs and agencies; so that the same terminology was used across the board; and

·       An explanation on contextual safeguarding and what difference it would make to practice and outcomes was requested.  This information would be provided later to the Board via email as the reporting Officer was unavailable.

RESOLVED:  that the Board notes the findings of the JTAI and the requirement to prepare a written statement of proposed action by 2 December 2019.