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 Children and Families Performance Reporting, which outlined the process for reporting.

With respect to the data reported for Quarter 3, Members expressed concern over the following areas:

Child Protection: It was noted within the report that 3 children were on a Child Protection Plan for 12-24 months. Members requested assurance that mechanisms were in place to ensure that children do not remain on CPP for extended periods of time. Officers advised that while children are on CPP, staff track the case throughout the process, and where relevant would follow Public Law Outline (PLO) processes in addressing cases of children under CPP for longer periods of time which could determine if it is necessary to go to court.

Assessment: Members questioned the length of time of some assessments. Officers advised that most assessments are completed within 45 days from the date of referral and where applicable will be completed within a shorter timescale. Officers aim to identify at an early stage if an assessment could take longer and must justify the reason for longer assessments.

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