The work undertaken by local agencies to deliver high quality child protection services is the subject of a report to the next meeting of Perth & Kinross Council on Wednesday October 8.
Perth and Kinross Child Protection Committee’s (CPC) annual Standards and Quality Report for 2013/14 provides an overview of the key activities of the multi-agency partnership to ensure that children and young people in Perth and Kinross are protected from abuse and neglect.
Earlier this year the strong partnership working within the different agencies and the scrutiny role played by Perth & Kinross Council was recognised by the Care Inspectorate in a report to the Scottish Ministers. The Link Inspector commented: “There is a very strong culture of challenge in Perth & Kinross Council with regular and robust scrutiny of the work of the CPC. There is strong evidence of effective leadership and direction resulting in continuous improvement in high performing public protection services and in the effectiveness of the CPC.”
In the past year the CPC has continued to update and improve public information and engagement to raise awareness of child protection issues, and how to report concerns. The recent launch of new child protection posters is the latest stage of that awareness campaign.
In the coming year, key priorities include improving the contribution of staff in services for drug-misusing parents into the assessment of the risks of children and young people, and the need to ensure a consistent response to children and young people at an earlier stage when there are concerns about their wellbeing.
Councillor Ian Miller, Leader of the Council said: “This year’s Standards and Quality Report reflects the continuing successes of the Council and our Community Planning Partners in this very important area of work.
“It is of vital importance that we continue to focus on maintaining the high standards the Child Protection Committee has set for Perth and Kinross and make further improvements which will benefit all children and young people. The important role played by all of the partners in challenging and scrutinising the work of the Child Protection Committee can not be underestimated, and it is pleasing to see that the Care Inspectorate recognised the value of this.”
Councillor Bob Band, Convener of Lifelong Learning added: “All of the agencies working together in child protection are facing their own unique challenges. However, this report demonstrates that we continue to be united in our commitment to spreading the message that ensuring children and young people are safe from harm is everyone’s responsibility.”
www.pkc.gov.uk
