Local Safeguarding Networks Terms of Reference

Purpose

The group will ensure connectivity between strategic safeguarding boards and the work of frontline practitioners. The group will promote a culture of multi-agency learning and increased accountability for safeguarding within Local Authority areas, supported by the Regional Safeguarding Business unit.

Objectives

  • To contribute to the strategic priorities of the safeguarding boards
  • To provide a forum for a range of managers and safeguarding leads to ensure that any emerging issues prevalent to the local area are presented and discussed on a multi-agency basis
  • To disseminate key national, regional and local policies, guidance, protocols and learning from practice reviews which relate to safeguarding
  • To provide a platform for consultation on both local and regional issues
  • To facilitate opportunities for the networking of professionals, volunteers and interest groups through local safeguarding events

This will be achieved by undertaking the following key tasks:

  • Ensuring two-way communication between the group and the safeguarding boards
  • Meeting on a bi-monthly basis
  • Holding Safeguarding Practitioner Forums at least twice a year within the locality
    • Providing opportunities for consultation and engagement, presentations, discussions and networking
  • Receiving agenda items and participation at meetings from all members of the group
  • Group members ensure that they are fully representative of and feedback to their agency

Membership

The chair will be the Safeguarding Service manager for the local authority. The vice chair of the group will be nominated from a different agency The membership of the group will consist of (but is not limited to) representatives from the following agencies:

  • Children’s Services
  • Adult Services
  • Probation
  • Community Rehabilitation Company
  • Police
  • Health (reps from Adult and Children)
  • Education Safeguarding
  • Education
  • Youth Service
  • TVA / GAVO
  • Housing
  • VAWDASV / IDVA
  • Youth Offending Service
  • Families First / Preventative Services / Early Years
  • Supporting People – Providers
  • Commissioning
  • Public Health Wales
  • Engagement Officer
  • Mental Health Services (CAMHS to Mental Health Services)
  • Links with Community Safety
  • Regional Safeguarding Business Unit
  • Gwent Drug & Alcohol Services

The Safeguarding Lead from each organisation will be invited but membership may change dependent on the subject of the forthcoming Local Safeguarding Practitioner Forum

Accountability

There is a requirement for the group to provide an annual update report to both the South East Wales Safeguarding Children Board and the Gwent Wide Adult Safeguarding Board.

This report will inform the Board’s Strategic Annual Reports.