CMARS > 7 Minute Briefing- Learning from thematic assurance event Harmful Sexual Behaviour

7 Minute Briefing- Learning from thematic assurance event Harmful Sexual Behaviour

Table of contents

  1. Background
  2. Why it matters?
  3. Good practice
  4. Key learning
  5. Next Steps
  6. Reflect on the learning
  7. Further information

 

1. Background

North Lincolnshire Children’s MARS Board hold a range of scrutiny events across different themes as part of our Scrutiny and Assurance Framework. An Independent Scrutiny Officer led the event which consisted of:

• A presentation from leads of the North Lincoln shire H armful Sexual Behaviour (HSB) panel which set out the context, including how the pathway works and how it is monitored

• A discussion with frontline practitioners to discuss the local approach to HSB, gather their views and share areas of good practice

• A multi-agency case audit practice learning line of sight event discussing two children who are receiving HSB intervention

2. Why it matters

The event was an opportunity for Children’s MARS representatives to seek assurance as to the quality and effectiveness of multi-agency work in relation to HSB as well a s the systems and processes to manage and monitor cases, impact and outcomes

3. Good practice

• The HSB Panel are flexible in their approach – Cases which do not meet th e criteria are considered where required and the Panel considers preventative work

• There is good multi-agency representation at the HSB Panel which provides a wealth of experience to contribute to intervention and provide support to the HSB practitioners

• A learning culture was evident in that both practitioners and supervisors demonstrated that they utilise national guidance and seek further support from wider national experts as appropriate

• Practitioners were aware of the nuances in HSB assessment where children have additional needs such as Special Educational Needs/Disabilities or where children have witnessed domestic abuse

• The values and principals of the One Family Approach was evident in that support to the wider family and siblings is considered. Practice is strengths based, solution focused and child centred

• There was evidence of positive work being done in schools to strengthen the approach to HSB including a specific example of a young person being safely managed in school without being excluded from ‘normal’ school life

4. Key learning

  • Further consider whether child friendly resources are required to empower young people to share their concerns and inform them what actions professionals will take when disclosures are made
  • Re-establish the HSB practitioner development sessions as a mechanism for practitioners to share good practice and develop relationships
  • Further raise the profile of the HSB Panel across the partnership including with key health staff such as GPs and practice nurses
  • Practitioners to continue to focus on the strengths of young people i.e. emphasising their talents and interests and building it into their plan

5. Next steps

The multi agency case audit learning event records are presented to the Safeguarding Practice Learning and Improvement Group (SPLIG) for consideration. Actions from the events will be monitored and reviewed as part of the Children’s MARS scrutiny and assurance action plan

6. Reflect on learning

To inform your practice you can:

  • Discuss this area of work with your supervisor in the context of HSB prevention and intervention
  • Reflect upon your understanding of the HSB panel including the systems and processes to manage and monitor cases, impact and outcomes
  • Reflect upon how you emphasise children’s talents an d interests and build these into their plans

7. Further information