Issue - meetings

5.1       The Panel considered a report by the Director of Children’s Services which provided an update on the outcomes and the review of the THRIVE programme at the end of the third and final year. Liz Rugg, Assistant Director Safeguarding, LAC and Youth Justice, highlighted the three key goals which the THRIVE programme has focussed on between October 2014 and March 2015. These being: skilled, confident and proactive workforce; effective, targeted interventions with children and families across the continuum of need; and reduced demand for high cost services.

5.2       The Panel were further informed of the work that is now being carried out to sustain what has been developed through the THRIVE programme.

5.3       The Panel discussed the rise in the number of people requesting advice in contrast to the reduction in the number of referrals made. The Panel were informed that further work is being done to introduce an early help screening process which will help to reduce the number of initial contacts to social work teams made.  The Panel also discussed the positive outcomes of Goal 1 (skilled, confident and proactive workforce), and noted the improvement in staff confidence, knowledge and professionalism.

5.4       The Panel gave thanks to the Children’s Services Department.

5.5       RESOLVED to note the report.