Agenda item

Report of the Director of Community & Children’s Services.

Members received a report of the Director of Community & Children’s Services relative to the Education and Early Years Service Safeguarding Update.

Members asked if there had been an increase in safeguarding concerns or vulnerabilities coming from schools or early years since the start of term. It was reported that the local authorities were working hard to encourage students to return to school, and were providing added support for families with concerns about returning. There had been an increase in students who were electively home-educated, and many cases were due to concerns over shielding family members. Additional intensive support was being provided for early help and for children in families with disabilities. With respect to schools reporting concerns, a 3-step process was in place for schools to report concerns.

RESOLVED, that – the report be received and its contents noted.