Neglect task and finish group update – December 2024

Devon SCP’s multi-agency Neglect Task and Finish Group continues to meet to work together on a number of workstreams. Here are the key updates from our latest meeting:

Strategy and Toolkit Review

The first meeting for the strategy and toolkit review group took place on 6 December. Members now have a plan to produce an up-to-date strategy and toolkit. This toolkit will incorporate best practices and address various aspects of neglect, including assumptions, barriers, and the specific needs of different groups of children. We aim to launch in February or March 2025.

Also, the group agreed the production of a good practice guide on neglect.

Devon County Council Children’s Services Action Plan

The action plan is up to date, and efforts are ongoing to ensure alignment with the Devon County Council Post Ofsted Action Plan.

Quality Assurance and Workforce Delivery

A draft report for the Neglect Thematic Review is now going through its edit and sign off processes and the learning will be shared across the partnership in the New Year.

Training and Workforce Development

A multi-agency training plan is being developed by the Partnership Business Team and the Children’s Services Academy, with a decision on the preferred provider expected by January 2025.

Voice of Families and Children

Efforts are being made to better incorporate the voices of children and families into our work, with plans to discuss this further in the New Year.

NSPCC Report: ‘Too Little, Too Late’

The NSPCC’s ‘Too Little, Too Late’ report was reviewed by the group and found useful for understanding the spectrum of neglect and the interface between poverty and neglect. Its findings will inform the development of our strategy and toolkit.

All our partners are committed to improving our response to neglect and ensuring the well-being of children and families in our community.