Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Children’s Services

Cath Knowles attended to report on the progress of the action plan as a result of the Annual Unannounced Inspection, as requested in the meeting of the 7 September 2010.

It was explained that the action plan had been approved by Cabinet on 18 October 2010 and that it mainly detailed the issues to be addressed as areas for development which had been identified from the inspection. It was noted that many of these areas had not been a surprise to the Service as many of them had been previously flagged for action. Attention was drawn to the fact that a priority action had not been identified. Regarding this fact, the Committee wished to endorse its congratulations to the Service. Whilst never satisfied, Members were impressed that the report was so positive considering the context of upheaval and uncertainty.

An issue around the electronic system for children’s social care was queried. It was stated that this had been previously ineffectual and needed improvement. Cath Knowles agreed with the statement but moved to affirm that the PARIS system should not be completely disregarded. Assurances were made that improvements were being made, especially regarding staff training and development.

A concern was also expressed over the number of ‘inconsistencies’ that had been identified in the report. It was reported that work was being carried out to counter these.

RESOLVED –

a)     That updates regarding progress on the action plan be brought to the Committee on a quarterly basis.