Cheshire West and ChesterLocal Safeguarding Children Board

Governance Handbook

November 2015

The approval of this document at the Board is a formal agreement between the LSCB and all partner agencies.

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CONTENTS

Part 1 - Objectives & Functions of the LSCB

Introduction 4Objectives of the LSCB 4-8

Part 2 Structure of the LSCB 9-10

Part 3 – LSCB Membership - Roles & Responsibilities

Standing Membership - LSCB 11-12Roles & Responsibilities of Members of the LSCB 12-13Quoracy of LSCB 14Standing Membership – Executive 14Roles and Responsibilities of Executive Members 15-16Quoracy of Executive meetings 16Roles & Responsibilities of Sub-Group Chairs 16-17Induction & Training for Members 17Roles & Responsibilities of the Officers of the LSCB 18-19

Part 4 – LSCB Communication Strategy

Relationship with Children's Trust 20-21Relationship with the Health & Wellbeing Board 21Relationship with the Local Adult Safeguarding Board 21Relationship with Partner Agency Management Boards 21-22Communication with Elected members of the Council 22Communication with Frontline Workers 22-23Communication with the Public & Community Groups 23Information Sharing 23-24

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Appendices1. Role Profile for Board Members 2. Role Profile for Lay Members3. Terms of Reference - Board4. Terms of Reference – Executive5. Board Governance

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PART 1 OBJECTIVES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE LSCB

1.1 INTRODUCTION

1.1.1 This handbook provides information and guidance to LSCB members and their agencies/organisations on how the statutory requirements for the LSCB, as set down in the Governance Agreement (at Appendix 5) and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015, are addressed in practice.

1.1.2 The purpose of this handbook is to outline the governance arrangements of the Board, clarify accountability, and identify the key purposes, functions and tasks of Cheshire West and Chester LSCB. It details membership requirements and the expectations placed on the Board and its members.

1.1.3 The aim is to ensure that: All constituent partner agencies of the Board are aware of

the role, remit and responsibilities of the Board; They have an informed understanding about how the Board

will manage its core business; All constituent agency members are clear about the

expectations placed upon their organisation by virtue of their Board membership;

Agency representatives are clear about the expectations regarding their role as a Board member.

1.2 OBJECTIVES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE LSCB

1.2.1 The LSCB has a range of roles and statutory functions. The objectives of the LSCB are set out in Section 14 of the Children Act 2004. These include: a) to coordinate what is done by each person or body

represented on the Board for the purposes of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in the area; and

b) to ensure the effectiveness of what is done by each such person or body for those purposes.

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1.2.2 In addition, Regulation 5 of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards Regulations 2006 sets out the functions of the LSCB, in relation to the above objectives. These are as follows:(a) developing policies and procedures for safeguarding

and promoting the welfare of children in the area of the authority, including policies and procedures in relation to:- developing thresholds and processes including

arrangements for Team Around the Family that are distinguished from referrals to Children’s Social Care

- development of inter-agency protocols on specific safeguarding areas

- action where there are concerns including eligibility and continuum of need

- training of the children's workforce and those who work with adults who are parents/carers ensuring both single & inter-agency training meets the local needs

- safer recruitment and supervision of those working with children including the quality assurance and auditing of vetting arrangements

- management of allegations against those working with children

- strengthening and challenging the arrangements for privately fostered children

- co-operation with neighbouring authorities (b) communicating to persons and bodies in the area of

the authority the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, raising their awareness of how this can best be done and encouraging them to do so by;- ensuring each partnership agency has identified a lead

person/s responsible for ensuring policies, procedures and practices on safeguarding are distributed and embedded in their agency

- identifying and implementing multi-agency safeguarding training

- public awareness campaigns(c) monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of what is

done by the authority and their Board partners individually and collectively to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and advising them on ways to improve;

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- establishment and implementation of a quality assurance framework

- ensuring each partnership agency contributes to the implementation of the framework through staff time and availability of performance management information

- particular emphasis on key persons & organisations with Section 11 and Section 175

- responsibilities to safeguard children & promote their welfare

- identifying areas of concern and agreeing priorities for any auditing of

- safeguarding practice- providing appropriate levels of challenge to partner

agencies including members own agency- ensuring the effective and efficient use of public funds

and capacity building across partner agencies

(d) participating in the planning of services for children in the area of the authority; and - identifying gaps in safeguarding practices and

procedures and implementing appropriate strategies to address the gap, including raising issues with the Children’s Trust Executive

- ensuring that a strategic overview of the implementation of safeguarding plans and services is maintained in a 'joined up' way

- ensuring that safeguarding is embedded into preventative work that is developed to reduce the risk of children coming into contact with higher level services

(e) undertaking reviews of serious cases and advising the authority and their Board partners on lessons to be learned, by;- establishing a Serious Case Review Panel- ensuring independence of the process- ensuring systems are in place to disseminate learning

1 - OBJECTIVES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE LSCB(f) function relating to child deaths:

- establishment of a Pan Cheshire Child Death Overview Panel (CDOP)

- procedures & practice that supports an effective rapid response

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- ensuring robust analysis of circumstances of child death

(g) Annual Report- The LSCB must produce and publish an annual report

on the effectiveness of safeguarding in Cheshire West and Chester.

- this should include an assessment of local arrangements

- it should address the effectiveness of the functions of the LSCB & progress in implementing learning from Serious Case Reviews

- provide evidence of challenge to Partner agencies and the work of the Children's Trust Board in driving forward improvements in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children & young people

- The report will be presented annually to the Children’s Trust Board, Health and Wellbeing Board, Community Safety Partnership Board and the Adult Safeguarding Board.

- The Annual Report will also be made available to the Police and Crime Commissioner and Elective Members

- All LSCB Partners should contribute to the development of the annual report and make it available to their respective organisations.

(h) Business Plan- The LSCB will develop its own Business Plan linked to

the priorities of the Children and Young People’s Plan. The Business Plan should clearly identify the strategic priorities for the Board drawn from identified need and key issues for the children, young people and their families in Cheshire West and Chester. The objectives within the plan will be drawn from:1) Learning from Serious Case Reviews and Practice Learning Reviews (both locally and nationally)2) Performance and benchmarking data3) Findings from audits4) National and local policy5) Integrated strategic needs assessment.

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All LSCB partner are required to commit to the development and delivery of the Business Plan.

(i) Board Work Plan - Board partners are required to develop and deliver a

plan of work for the Board, drawn from the objectives and priorities set out in the Business Plan.

- The Board will regularly review progress against the work plan.

- Partners are responsible for ensuring that performance information and reports to the Board are available to inform progress against the work plan and Business Plan.

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PART 2 – STRUCTURE OF THE LSCB

2.1 Structure of the LSCB in Cheshire West and Chester

2.1.1 The LSCB Board meets bi-monthly. Additional extra-ordinary meetings can be arranged as necessary.

2.1.2 The Executive of the LSCB meets bi-monthly.

2.1.3 Child Death Overview Panel (CDOP) is a Pan Cheshire Group which meets quarterly.

2.1.4 The Policy and Procedures sub-group is a Pan Cheshire Group and meets quarterly.

2.1.5 The LSCB has sub-groups to co-ordinate and promote the work of the LSCB and its Business Plan priorities. Sub-Group Chairs are representatives of the main Board to ensure that oversight and accountability is retained at Board level.

Learning and Development sub-group which meets bi-monthly.

Local Policy, Practice and Standard sub-group that meet six weekly.

Quality Assurance sub-group which meets bi-monthly. Missing From Home, Child Sexual Exploitation and

Trafficked Children which meets bi-monthly The Audit and Case Review sub-group which contains the

membership for a Serious Case Review Panel meets six weekly.

The Board supported a proposal that the Children in Care subgroup becomes a subgroup of the Children’s Trust. As Children in Care is a priority area for the LSCB the Board will receive an update from the in relation to the work they are progressing on behalf of the Board as a minimum on an annual basis or more frequently if issues are identified.

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PART 3 – MEMBERSHIPS, ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1.1 MEMBERSHIP OF CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER LSCB

LSCB BoardIndependent Chair

Cheshire West and Chester Local AuthorityDirector of Children & Young Person's ServicesLead Member - Children's ServicesHead of Service - Children’s Social CareHead of Service – Adult Social CareHead of Service – Safeguarding UnitHead of Service – Education ServiceHead of Service – Integrated Early SupportHead of Commissioning – Adult ServicesHead of Service – CAFCASSDirector of Public HealthHead of Service – Housing

Health:Designated Nurse – Safeguarding ChildrenDesignated Doctor – Safeguarding ChildrenDirector of Nursing – Performance and Quality, East Cheshire NHS Foundation TrustDirector of Nursing – Therapies and Patient Partnership, Cheshire and Wirral PartnershipDirector of Quality and Safeguarding, NHS West Cheshire CCGAssistant Director of Nursing, Quality and Safety, NHS EnglandDirector of Nursing and Quality, Countess of Chester Hospital

Criminal Justice:Chief Superintendent, Cheshire Constabulary, Public Protection Unit Assistant Chief Executive, National Probation ServiceAssistance Chief Executive, Community Rehabilitation Company

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Head of Service, Youth Offending Service.

Schools:Head Teacher - SecondaryHead Teacher – PrimaryHead Teacher – Special School

CollegesPrincipal, Further Education College

Voluntary ServicesDevelopment Officer, Voluntary Faith and Community Sector

Lay Members x 2Lay members are full members of the LSCB. They should have an understanding of safeguarding issues both in terms of the wider safeguarding agenda and child protection and be able to represent the local community.

LSCB Business Unit OfficersLSCB Business ManagerLSCB Business AdministratorLSCB Quality Assurance Officer LSCB Learning and Development OfficerLSCB Learning and Development Administrator

3.1.2 Roles & Responsibilities of Members of the LSCBThe Director of Children's Services (DCS) and the Lead Member for Children's Services have particular responsibilities in relation to safeguarding children as members of the LSCB. The DCS should ensure all appropriate local authority services engage with the LSCB and will be held to account for the effective working of the LSCB by the Chief Executive and challenged where appropriate by the Lead Member. The Lead Member should be a 'participating observer' of the LSCB attending meetings and receiving all papers providing questioning and if necessary challenge to the LSCB.

3.1.3 The LSCB Business Manager will facilitate bi-annual development days for the Board and it is expected that all members prioritise attendance at these events.

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3.1.4 Membership of the LSCB Board has to be at the appropriate level of seniority to make the necessary strategic decisions and take responsibility for those decisions within their partner agency.

- To proactively and enthusiastically lead on the safeguarding agenda both in terms of partnership arrangements and in individual partner agencies

- To commit to regular attendance at Board meetings and not miss more than one Board meeting in a 12 month period. If absent a named deputy should attend.

- To have the strategic lead or lead responsibility for safeguarding within their agency and to be accountable to the LSCB for their organisation's safeguarding arrangements

- To act in such a way as to ensure the confidentiality of matters raised and dealt with by the LSCB

- To actively contribute the Annual Report and Business Plan using an Outcome Based Approach and reach a collective agreement on the safeguarding priorities for Cheshire West and Chester children & young people ensuring that partner agencies contribute to the implementation of that Business Plan

- To ensure that equality issues are addressed in all plans, procedures & protocols

- To review the progress of the Business Plan and recommend remedial action to the Executive as necessary

- To actively contribute to ensuring that effective inter-agency safeguarding and child protection procedures and protocols are in place across the borough

- To have the authority and expertise to challenge and scrutinise safeguarding practice across partner agencies and to hold their own organisation to account in terms of safeguarding practice

- To contribute to the monitoring of the quality and effectiveness of safeguarding arrangements across the borough in terms of agreeing resources for auditing, providing performance management data and scrutinising any reports provided

- To positively contribute to the development of joint working and inter-agency arrangements.

- To serve as a member of the Serious Case Review Panel if required.

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- To ensure that adequate financial resources are available in the Pooled Budget to enable the LSCB to carry out its duties and to set an annual budget ensuring the effective and efficient use of public funds

- To consider the use of shared resources across partner agencies to enable the LSCB to carry out its duties

- To take personal responsibility for ensuring that their own safeguarding knowledge is kept up to date and to attend any training or briefings on current safeguarding issues as arranged by the LSCB.

3.1.5 Members must declare any interest that may arise in the general LSCB meeting or any of the LSCB sub-groups

If the LSCB is to be an effective entity it is the responsibility of its constituent members to take a proactive, positive and enabling approach to safeguarding.

3.1.6 Quoracy of the LSCBQuoracy is set down in the governance agreement as a quarter of its membership with at least three sectors represented including Local Authority Children’s Services and Health. Agency attendance at meetings is monitored and will be part of the Annual Report. The Chair of the LSCB will address any attendance issues with the Chief Executive of the agency concerned.

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3.1.7 MEMBERSHIP OF THE LSCB EXECUTIVE BOARDMembership of the Executive Sub-Group must be made up of Chairs of the LSCB sub-groups in addition to the following members:

Deputy Director Quality & Safeguarding – NHS EnglandHead of Service – Children’s Social CareHead of Service – Safeguarding UnitDevelopment Officer - Voluntary Faith Community SectorSuperintendent – Cheshire PoliceNamed GP – Safeguarding ChildrenDesignated Nurse – Safeguarding ChildrenLead for Children, Young People and Families – Joint Strategic CommissioningSenior Manager - Adult Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse Virtual School Head (co-opted)Public Health ConsultantLSCB Business Manager

3.1.8 Roles & Responsibilities of Members of the LSCB Executive

Membership of the Executive of the LSCB is at senior operational management level and includes those with expertise and responsibility for safeguarding in partner agencies.- To proactively and enthusiastically lead on the

safeguarding agenda both in terms of partnership arrangements and in individual partner agencies

- To attend all Executive meetings and sub meetings as agreed or to send an identified deputy who is authorised to the appropriate level of

- responsibility and to actively contribute to all meetings- To act in such a way as to ensure the confidentiality of

matters raised and dealt with by the Executive of the LSCB- To actively contribute to the Annual Report and Business

Plan using an Outcome Based Approach.- To consider and identify priorities for Cheshire West and

Chester children and to identify any gaps in safeguarding provision ensuring that the LSCB Board and their agency

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representative on that Board is appropriately briefed on these issues.

- To ensure equalities issues are addressed in all plans, procedures and protocols and that Equality Impact Assessments are completed on LSCB work

- To contribute to the standing groups of the LSCB to ensure that inter-agency procedures and protocols are established and appropriately embedded into practice in the partner agencies

- To provide challenge and scrutiny of safeguarding practice across the borough and in their own agency and to raise concerns at the Executive if necessary

- To contribute to the monitoring of the quality and effectiveness of safeguarding through audits, reviews and provision of performance management information

- To consider and agree the inter-agency training plan, identifying gaps in training and how to address these

- To consider the effectiveness of practice in particular areas of responsibility including allegations against staff, private fostering, child deaths and the areas agreed as priorities in the Business Plan

- To consider cross borough issues to ensure that safeguarding practice is secure and that there is consistency in approach particularly where an agency spans two or more LSCBs

- To communicate the safeguarding 'message' effectively and enthusiastically within their own agency and in multi-agency settings

3.1.9 Quoracy of the Executive of the LSCB- At least a quarter of the membership should be present with

at least 3 sectors represented including Local Authority Children & Young People's Services and Health

- Agency attendance at meetings is monitored and will be part of the Annual Report

- The Chair of the Executive of the LSCB will address any attendance issues with the agency concerned.

3.1.10 Roles and Responsibilities of Sub-Group Chairs- The sub-group chairs will be Members represented at the

Board in order to increase the sub-group’s accountability to

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the Board and improve awareness at Board level of the sub-group work plan.

- The Chairs will meet with the Business Manager to discuss the agenda for meetings no later than 10 working days before.

- The Chairs of the sub-groups will be proactive in seeking or raising agenda items to inform the meeting.

- The Chairs will prioritise the facilitation of the sub-group meeting.

- The Chairs can expect support from the Business Manager in driving the work of the sub-group, and setting and tracking actions that are outcome focused.

- At each meeting the Chairs are responsible for completing a feedback summary to be presented to the Executive.

- Any gaps in membership or attendance issues will be highlighted by the Chairs of the sub-groups to the relevant Senior Manager in the agency.

- The Chairs will review and agree minutes and return these to the Business Administrator no later than 15 days post meeting.

- The Business Manager will arrange bi-annual development days for the sub-group Chairs which will include a meeting with the LSCB Chair. It is expected that sub-group Chairs prioritise these events.

3.1.11 Induction & Training for Members of the LSCB & its Executive- All members of the LSCB and its Executive will be issued

with the Introduction to the LSCB and the Governance Handbook on joining. They will be expected to meet with the LSCB Manager &/or the Chair of the LSCB prior to taking up their place on the Board for an induction briefing

- The LSCB Training Officer will provide or arrange training for LSCB members and those of the Executive on their roles and responsibilities and updates on safeguarding issues such as learning from Serious Case Reviews as appropriate.

- All LSCB Members and those of the Executive must take personal responsibility for ensuring that they access the appropriate level of Safeguarding training for Senior Managers through the LSCB Training Programme.

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Roles & Responsibilities of the Officers of the LSCB

LSCB Manager- Raise and maintain the profile of the LSCB- Assist the LSCB in managing risk- Take a strategic overview of safeguarding practice across

agencies, set and devise standards and performance targets, participate in auditing of practice and oversee the actions plans that arise from them.

- Lead and manage projects relating to multi-agency practice as agreed by the LSCB

- Co-ordinate the work of the LSCB, Executive and sub-groups and advise these groups on safeguarding practice issues

- Ensure equalities issues are addressed in the work of the LSCB

- Ensure the effective dissemination and embedding of policies and procedures

- Ensure children & young people are engaged in the work of the LSCB

- Write the Annual Report and Business Plan- Produce a key issues report following each Board for

dissemination to the multi-agency workforce- Manage the LSCB budget and provide a regular update to

the Board

LSCB Training Officer- Deliver and commission safeguarding training for the

children's workforce and those working with adults who are parents/carers

- Develop an Annual Training Plan that addresses gaps in training provision

- Periodically undertake a needs analysis in respect of safeguarding

- training- Ensure the links between the LSCB training and the Children

Workforce Development Plan are established including early intervention and TAF

- Quality assure all training provided- Lead on the development of a training strategy and annual

training plan

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LSCB Quality Assurance Officer- Produce quarterly safeguarding newsletter for both

professionals and the public- Collate and analyse multi-agency data returns and work with

the MAPMQA sub-group to obtain a multi-agency ‘local’ picture.

- Engage children and their families in evaluations of projects or impact assessments.

- Produce quarterly data reports to be presented at the Board- Organise and assist with the facilitation of multi-agency

audits - Identify themes for Child Protection Chair audits of practice.- Support and supervise any specific project work

LSCB Business Administrator - Co-ordinate all meetings of the LSCB, its Executive and sub-

groups and take minutes- Send out actions from the meeting within 5 working days- Send out minutes within 20 working days- Request agenda items 15 working days prior to meeting- Send out agendas and relevant paperwork no less than 5

working days before the meeting. - Process invoices and payments as required- Manage the work plan, ensuring that reports for the Board

and Sub-groups are received in a timely manner.

LSCB Training Administrator- Co-ordinate and minute the Learning and Development sub-

group meeting- Undertake actions in conjunction with that sub-group as

outlined above. - Support training events by ensuring all necessary

administrative tasks are completed - Manage referrals to training, ensuring that there is a

balanced mix of agencies represented.

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PART 4 – LSCB COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 The safe transfer of information from the LSCB to its partner agencies is critical but often complex. This Communication Strategy sets out the arrangements in place and identifies those that require further refinement for the communication of the work of the LSCB. There are several layers within this process:- Strategically with the Children Trust & Management Boards

of partner agencies- With Elected Members of the Council- Within agencies- With frontline workers- Regionally with neighbouring LSCBs- With the general public & community groups

4.1.2 The LSCB has its own website on which all procedures, protocols, publications and training information is published. http://www.cheshirewestlscb.org.uk/

4.2 Relationship with Children's Trust

4.2.1 The LSCB and the Children’s Trust have important but distinct roles in keeping children safe. The Trust is accountable for the commissioning of services for Children and Young People in line with the Children and Young People Plan. The LSCB is responsible for challenging the Children’s Trust on their success in ensuring the children and young people are kept safe and that appropriate services are commissioned.

4.2.2 The LSCB should not be subordinate to or subsumed within the trust co-operation arrangements in a way that might compromise its separate identity and independent voice. The LSCB should expect to be consulted by the Children’s Trust Board on issues which affect how children are safeguarded and their welfare promoted. There is a protocol in place to

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support this communication between the Children’s Trust and LSCB.

4.2.3 The Chair of the LSCB attends the Children’s Trust Executive Board

4.2.4 The Director of Children’s Services who sits on the LSCB chairs the Children’s Trust Executive Board.

4.3 Relationship with the Health and Wellbeing Board

4.3.1 The LSCB works closely with the Health and Well-being Board. Several members of the LSCB are also members of the Health and wellbeing Board. There is a protocol in place to support communication between the H&W Board and the LSCB. The DCS represents the LSCB on the Health and Wellbeing Board and a structured reporting system has been put in place.

4.6 Relationship with Community Safety Partnership(CSP)

4.4.1 The Community Safety Partnership Board is made up of a number of key agencies including the Cheshire Constabulary, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Purple Futures Community Rehabilitation Company, The National Probation Service, Cheshire West and Chester Council, local health providers and other affiliated groups.

4.4.2 The group works together to protect the local community from crime and to ensure people feel safer. They work out how to deal with local issues like antisocial behavior, drug and alcohol misuse and to reduce reoffending. They annually assess local crime patterns and set priorities to address these.

4.4.3 There are a number of representatives on both the LSCB and the CSP and a structured reporting system has been put in place, the Chair of the LSCB meets with the Chair of the CSP on a 6 monthly basis. There is a protocol inplace that underpins the working arrangements between the 2 Boards. http://cheshirewestlscb.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Joint-Protocol-Final.pdf

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4.5 Relationship with the Local Safeguarding Adult Board

4.5.1 The LSCB has a protocol in place to support communication between the LSCB and LSAB. The Chairs of the two Boards will meet on a regular basis, as outlined in the joint protocol.

4.5.2 A number of LSCB members also attend the LSAB and there is close working links between the boards and a shared Learning and Development sub-group. http://cheshirewestlscb.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/LSCB-LSAB-Protocol.pdf

4.6 Relationships with Partner Agency Management Boards

4.6.1 It is the responsibility of each agency/organisation's management board to satisfy themselves that arrangements to safeguard children and promote their welfare is adequate and the LSCB will audit these arrangements through sec 11 Audits. Management Boards are encouraged to share their own assessments of arrangements annually.

4.6.2 It is the responsibility of each agency/organisation's representative to brief their Management Boards on safeguarding issues and the work of the LSCB.

4.6.3 The Annual Safeguarding Reports of partner agencies should be presented to the LSCB and any issues identified highlighted to the LSCB

4.6.4 The LSCB has the responsibility to challenge partner agencies if there are concerns about safeguarding arrangements and to bring this to the attention of the Management Board through their LSCB representative.

4.6.5 There is explicit linkage with the multi-agency public protection arrangements, including the Domestic Abuse Partnership and MAPPA strategic group. A number of LSCB members attend both meetings.

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4.6.6 The Community Safety Partnership is represented on the Board through Members from Children’s Services and Cheshire Constabulary

4.7 Communication with Elected Members of the Council

4.7.1 The Lead Member for Children Service sits on the LSCB.

4.7.2 An annual report from the LSCB is presented to the Cheshire West and Chester Scrutiny Committee and the LSCB Chair attends these meetings.

4.7.3 The Chair of the LSCB meets on a quarterly basis with the Lead Member and the Chief Executive of Cheshire West and Chester Local Authority. The DCS and the Elected Member for Children’s Services also attend these meetings.

4.8 Communication with Frontline Workers

4.8.1 It is the responsibility of each agency/organisation to ensure that frontline workers are kept informed and briefed on safeguarding issues. This can be supported by the LSCB Bulletin and frontline visits from Board Members.

4.8.2 Frontline workers across all agencies should be 'made available’ to attend safeguarding training based on their individual needs and the requirements of their post. Training must be prioritised by Managers.

4.8.3 Both the LSCB Manager and Training Officer are available to attend Team & Unit meetings across all agencies to provide briefings on safeguarding issues and will request invites to such meetings if it is deemed appropriate.

4.8.4 The LSCB hosts training and events, e.g. conferences and workshops as the need for dissemination of information becomes apparent.

4.8.5 The Introduction book about the LSCB should be made available to all existing and new starters within Member agencies

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4.9 Communication with the Public and Community Groups

4.9.1 The LSCB has a responsibility to ensure that it has a high profile with the public in order to ensure that the work that is undertaken across the borough is championed with the local residents, to ensure that they are reassured that robust arrangements are in place to safeguard children and to get across public information messages on safeguarding issues.

4.9.2 The LSCB website is open to all and is publicised in all LSCB literature.

4.9.3 The quarterly Newsletter is available online and via other agencies.

4.9.4 Opportunities to highlight specific safeguarding messages are taken through campaigns as appropriate.

4.9.5 We have appointed two lay members – one youth member – to assist us in engaging the local communities.

4.9.6 We are actively seeking additional ways to communicate with the public.

4.10 Information Sharing

4.10.1 Chapter 1 Working Together (2015) sets out how effective sharing of information between professionals and local agencies is essential for effective service provision. The LSCB will support and encourage information sharing between and within organisations ad address any barriers to information sharing.

4.10.2 The LSCB can require a person or body to comply with a request for information. This can only take place where the information is essential to carrying out LSCB statutory functions. Any requests for information about individuals must be “necessary” and “proportionate” to the reasons for the

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request. The LSCB will be mindful of the burden of requests and will always explain why the information is required.

Appendix 1.

ROLE PROFILE FOR MEMBERSOF CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN BOARD

There is an overriding expectation that all board members will work together as an interagency partnership to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in accordance with the Children’s Act 2004.

1. BOARD MEMBERS OBJECTIVES

1.1 Contribute fully and effectively to the work of the Cheshire West and Chester LSCB.

1.2 Contribute to developing and maintaining strong and effective inter-agency safeguarding procedures and protocols.

1.3 Ensure that any necessary recommendations are made regarding the adequate resourcing of services to children; including Care Leavers, Children in Care, Child Protection, Child in Need and Early Support.

1.4 Provide the LSCB with specified management information and data to help inform decision making.

2. ACCOUNTABILITIES

2.1 Abide by the Governance arrangements of the LSCB.2.2 Maintain a clear focus on the safeguarding needs of children.2.3 Attend all meetings of the LSCB and when unable to do so, send apologies in

advance and supply an appropriate deputy. Agencies must ensure 100% attendance. Deputy representation should not occur for more than 25% of scheduled meetings.

2.4 Ensure agency resourcing and financial contribution is adequate and appropriate.

2.5 Ensure decisions with regard to safeguarding made by the Board are implemented within their own agency.

2.6 Field appropriate agency representatives to work on LSCB sub-groups.2.7 Appreciate the roles and responsibilities of member agencies in

protecting children.2.8 Represent their agency from a strategic standpoint.

3. DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY

3.1 Members of the Board must have the appropriate level of delegated authority from their agency to enable them to conduct the business of the Board.

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3.2 To respect and adhere to the decision making requirements as set out in the LSCB Governance arrangements.

3.3 Members should hold senior management positions within their organisation and be able to commit their agencies to joint working.

4. RELATIONSHIPS

4.1 Promote and enhance effective working relationships within their own agency; between their agency and the LSCB; and agency representatives of the other LSCB Sub-groups.

5. SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1 Prepare for meetings by reading minutes and associated papers,5.2 Ensure actions agreed at previous meetings are completed and provide an

update.5.3 Discuss issues relevant to LSCB business, within the agency and be prepared to contribute from the agency standpoint.5.4 Be willing to offer a representative view from their area of work and/or

organisation. 5.5 Establish a process that ensures decisions taken at LSCB are disseminated

and implemented in to their own agency/organisation5.6 Ensure their agency undertakes a self-assessment (Sec 11 audit) as

requested, and develops and implements any action plan for improvement where this is identified.

5.7 Ensure the information sharing protocol is implemented and understood.5.8 Promote a culture of listening to children and families in relation to individual

decisions and the development of services.5.9 Keep the Board informed of any external inspections in relation to Safeguarding

and be prepared to share with the Board any recommendations and action plans from inspections

5.10 Ensure that there is a system in place to disseminate information from the LSCB to their agency, including learning from Serious Case Reviews.

5.11 Provide agency specific information to the LSCB as required by producing reports to/from their agency/organisation as appropriate 5.12 Meet deadlines as agreed by the LSCB5.13 Accept shared responsibility for the satisfactory completion of the LSCB Work

Programme by undertaking tasks as appropriate, including participation in sub-groups (or fielding of staff to participate in sub-groups where relevant).

5.14 To ensure agency resources are made available for Serious Case Reviews and Practice Learning Reviews as, including the management report.

5.15 Implement Policy and Procedures as agreed by the LSCB within their own agencies.

5.16 Contribute to the Annual Report and the Business Plan. 5.17 Respect confidentiality of sensitive information provided by the constituent

agencies of the LSCB.5.18 Agree any response to media enquiries with the Chair of the LSCB and

constituent agencies as appropriate.

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Appendix 2.

ROLE PROFILE FOR LAY MEMBERSOF CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER LSCB

1. LAY MEMBER OBJECTIVES

1.1 To provide challenge to the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) from a young person’s perspective.

1.2 To assist in promoting the work of the LSCB within local communities, particularly amongst children, young people and their families.

1.3 To bring an independent view to the Board, enabling it to focus on the interests and needs of children and young people living in our communities.

1.4 To support the Board in scrutinising the safeguarding arrangement within and across local agencies.

1.5 To scrutinise the effectiveness of the LSCB against its statutory responsibilities and locally agreed priorities.

1.6 To make recommendations to the LSCB and its partners as appropriate.1.7 To assist in spreading the word that safeguarding Cheshire West’s children

and young people is everyone’s responsibility.

2. LAY MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1 Taking part in the work of the LSCB, including preparation in advance of meetings, by reading and considering the agenda and papers.

2.2 Bringing an element of challenge to the LSCB discussions.2.3 Commenting on reports, consultations etc. and contributing to discussions on

LSCB matters.2.4 To act as an ambassador of the Board and of safeguarding in general.2.5 Raising issues for possible future scrutiny as appropriate.2.6 Bringing the benefit of your own relevant knowledge, skills, experience and

contacts.2.7 Raising neighbourhood and community awareness, understanding and

interest in the work of the LSCB.2.8 Highlighting relevant local issues, in order to help the LSCB to make practical

suggestions for improvements to services.2.9 Taking part in development activities arranged to improve LSCB members’

knowledge and understanding of its role and the topics it is scrutinising.

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Appendix 3

Cheshire West and Chester Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB)

Independent Chair: Gill Frame

Purpose and Aims: To coordinate what is done by each person or body represented on the Board for the

purpose of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in the area of the authority.

To ensure the effectiveness of what is done by each such person or body for that purpose.

The Board is committed to protecting, and improving outcomes, for children and young people in Cheshire West and Chester.

Objectives:

The LSCB will achieve this group addressing the core functions as set out in “Working Together 2015:

• Monitoring, evaluation and scrutiny• Communicating and raising awareness• Policies and procedures functions• Informing planning and commissioning of services• Functions relating to Childs deaths and serious caser reviews• Learning and development

Drivers:

LSCB Annual Report LSCB Business Plan Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015: This provides a “clear framework for

Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs) to monitor the effectiveness of local services.”

Ofsted Thematic Inspections LSCB Case Reviews and Services Case Reviews (national and local)

Membership:

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The Board will be chaired by an independent Chair, reporting to the Strategic Director of Children’s Services for Cheshire West and Chester

The Board members will be representatives from:

Local Authority Children’s Services Health Service operating within Cheshire West and Chester Voluntary Sector Police YOS Connexions CAFCAS Probation Service Schools Colleges Lay Members (x2) Officers of the Board The Lead Member of the Council for Children will also attend as a participating observer.

The group may invite representation from other bodies that they believe can contribute to their work.

Quorum:

Statutory membership

Meetings:

The Board will meet on a bi-monthly basis.

Key Tasks:

To establish a strategic business plan with clear priority areas aimed at improving services to safeguard children.

Establishment of a robust performance information framework, that provides relevant and timely quantitative, qualitative and outcome evaluation in respect of the systems and practice to safeguard children in the authority. All partners of the LSCB should contribute to this.

To ensure there is a clear structure in place through effective sub groups of the LSCB to progress actions relating to the above functions and business plan.

To develop effective partnership relationships based on the requirement of the duty to co-operate and work together to safeguard children.

To ensure effective budget management is achieved through regular monitoring of expenditure against priorities and/or targets.

To commission, monitor and co-ordinate the work of the sub-groups of the Local Safeguarding Children’s Board, through receiving regular reports on progress.

To receive expert and/or professional advice as appropriate on emerging national initiatives, policy and guidance and act upon this as appropriate, as a corporate body to comment and respond to national policy or issues pertinent to children.

Ensure there is effective learning and development to equip the workforce to recognise

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and respond to children experiencing or at risk of harm, and to the needs of children. Provide an Annual Report on the effectiveness of safeguarding children in the authority.

The report should recognise achievements and progress, and challenges that still remain. The report should be submitted to the Chief Executive and Leader of the Council. it will also be submitted to the local Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board, and West Cheshire Children’s Trust

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Appendix 4

Cheshire West and Chester Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB)Executive

Group Chair: Lisa Cooper, Assistant Director of Nursing, Quality & Safety (Patient Experience & Safeguarding) Cheshire, Warrington and Wirral Area Team, NHS England

Vice Chair:Gavin Butler, Senior Manager - Adult Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse

Purpose and Aims

The main responsibilities of the Executive Group are to develop and drive the implementation of the LSCB Business Plan through the work of the sub-groups, on behalf of the Board. Also to ensure that the work of the LSCB, and cross-agency responsibility and accountability for safeguarding children & young people is clearly understood and actions implemented.

Objectives:

The Executive will drive LSCB Business All sub groups will be accountable to the Executive and submit exception reports

highlighting concerns/good practice. Executive will monitor the financial budget and spending plan.

Drivers:

LSCB Annual Report LSCB Business Plan Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015 LSCB Learning and Improvement Framework Exception reports from LSCB Sub-Groups

Membership:

The Executive will be chaired by Senior Lead from a Statutory Agency of the Board. There will be a vice chair identified from the membership below and both of these roles will be reviewed on an annual basis.

The Board members will be representatives from:

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Head of Service – Children’s Social CareHead of Service –Integrated Early SupportDevelopment Officer - Voluntary Faith Community SectorSuperintendent – Cheshire PoliceNamed GP’s Safeguarding Children - NHS South Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group and NHS West Cheshire Clinical Commissioning GroupChair of the MFH/CSE/Trafficking sub-group.Chair of the Audit and Case Review Sub-Group.LSCB Business ManagerLead for Children, Young People and Families – Joint Strategic CommissioningSenior Manager - Adult Safeguarding and Domestic AbuseDirector of Quality and Safeguarding – NHS West Cheshire Clinical Commissioning GroupChief Nurse & Director of Quality & Safeguarding - NHS South Cheshire & NHS Vale Royal Clinical Commissioning GroupsSenior Manager – Safeguarding Children in Education

Co-opted Members to include:Virtual School HeadSafeguarding Quality Assurance Unit Senior Manager and CSE Strategic LeadPublic Health

Quorum:

A minimum of five members of the group including representation from Children’s Social Care or Safeguarding Unit, Cheshire Police and one Health Partner.

Meetings:

The Executive will hold six meetings per year with flexibility built in around intervals.

Key Tasks:

To identify and agree with the Board, local priorities for safeguarding children within the context of the national priorities, research evidence and best practice and to implement a business plan which reflects those priorities.

To recommend to the LSCB the framework for performance management and the reporting template within which the sub-groups will operate.

To delegate to the sub-groups, on behalf of the Board, responsibility for establishing targets for improvements, implementation of action plans to achieve those targets and regular reporting to resolve any difficulties within the timescales identified by the LSCB Business Plan.

To support the effective functioning of the Board by providing consistent, coherent information on all of the work strands within the business plan; including recommendations for action where work is not meeting targets and to provide appropriate reports, advice and guidance as required.

To identify priorities for practice arising from Serious Case Reviews, Practice Learning Reviews and multi-agency audits; and make arrangements to monitor and evidence the progress made.

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To design, agree and implement on behalf of the Board, publicity, communication and training to support these activities.

To manage the agenda of the LSCB and its work plan and to collate, filter and analyse information on behalf of the Board.

To have delegated authority to hold sub-groups and their chairs accountable for their work and to receive sub-group reports.

To provide a focus and leadership in respect of the LSCBs scrutiny role of safeguarding activities across partner agencies.

Date for review

The Terms of Reference shall be reviewed annually following approval

Signed (Chair)...

Date...22.10.2014.........

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APPENDIX 5

CHESHIRE WEST AND CHESTER LOCAL SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN BOARDGOVERNANCE

1. NAME1.1 The name of the Partnership is the Cheshire West and Chester Local Safeguarding Children Board (“the Board”).

2. OBJECTIVES OF THE BOARD

2.1. Co-ordinating the activities of organisations and individuals representedon the Board for the purpose of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children for whom their agencies are responsible;

2.2 Identifying gaps in safeguarding practices and procedures and implementing appropriate strategies to address the gap;

2.3 Ensuring each partnership agency has identified at least one person whoshall be responsible for ensuring policies and practices on safeguarding are given due prominence within their respective agencies;

2.4 Ensuring the Board adopt a strategic role in overseeing the implementation of strategies for safeguarding children within Cheshire West and Cheshire and for children whom their agencies are responsible for;

2.5 Identifying and implementing appropriate inter-agency safeguarding training;

2.6 Undertake appropriate preventative work to reduce the likelihood of children coming into contact with child protection services within Cheshire West and Cheshire.

2.7 Monitoring the effectiveness of the Board’s arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in Cheshire West and Chester and for whom agencies are responsible;

2.8Ensuring the effective and efficient use of public funds.

3. BOARD FUNCTIONS

3.1 The Board shall have the functions contained in Regulation 5 of the LocalSafeguarding Children Boards Regulations 2006 as amended from time to time.

3.2 The Board may agree to engage in such other functions and activities thatfacilitate the achievement of its objectives and functions.

3.3 The Board shall review its functions following the enactment of legislation andguidance relevant to Local Safeguarding Children Boards.

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4. BOARD PARTNERS

4.1 The Board shall comprise of the statutory partners set out in the Governance Handbook and such other organisations will be invited to become Board Partners in accordance with paragraph 4.6 below.

4.2 The Board shall include at least one representative from each of the partnerBodies noted in 4.1 above.4.3 Each Board Partner shall be responsible for appointing its representative to theBoard and shall notify the Independent Chair of their representative.

4.4 In determining their representatives, each Board Partner shall give dueconsideration to the individual’s experience, expertise and knowledge onmatters affecting the well-being of children.

4.5 The Board shall, from time to time, undertake a review to determine whether ithas the appropriate range and mix of skills and experience to meet itsobjectives and fulfil its functions.

4.6 The Chair following consultation with Board Partners may invite other organisations to become Board Partners.

4.7 In the event of a Partner replacing its Board representative on the Board, theyshall notify the Chair as soon as practicable.

4.8. Each statutory Board Partner shall retain statutory responsibility for its functions.

5. CHAIRPERSON OF THE BOARD

5.1 The Board shall appoint an Independent Chair who shall hold the office ofChairperson of the Board until such time as determined by the Board..5.2 The Board shall nominate a Vice-Chairperson who shall hold office until such time as determined by the Board.

6. RESOURCING BOARD ACTIVITIES

6.1 Partner agencies have an obligation to provide LSCBs with reliable resources (finance and other contributions in kind) that enables the LSCB to be strong and effective.

6.2 The Board shall maintain records of the contributions made by each Partner and details of what was spent .

7. BOARD MEETINGS

7.1 The Board shall meet at least four times each year.

7.2 No business shall be conducted at any Board meeting unless at least one

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quarter of the total membership is present.

7.3 Board Partners shall use all reasonable endeavours to reach a consensus onissues under consideration.

7.4 Where Board Partners are unable to reach a consensus on the issue underconsideration a majority of votes of the Partners present at the meeting shalldetermine the matter. In the event that there is an equal vote the Chairs decision will be final.

7.5 Board members and representatives will get papers and minutes at least fiveworking days before each Board meeting.

7.6 The notice of each meeting shall specify the time, place and details of thebusiness to be transacted.

8. SPECIAL MEETING

8.1 The Chair of the Board may call an extraordinary meeting of the Board at anytime provided at least five working days’ written notice is given of the meetingand of the matters to be considered.

9. EXECUTIVE BOARD

9.1 The Board may establish an Executive Board (drawn from the membership ofCheshire West and Chester LSCB or representatives put forward by partner agencies at Senior Management level) to progress the strategic priorities agreed by the Board.

9.2 The Board must agree written Terms of Reference for the Executive Board.

9.3 The Board shall receive a report from the Executive on progress of the activities it is driving.

9.4 The Executive Board may identify lead officers to undertake specific activitieslinked to the strategic priorities of the Board and they may form working groupsif appropriate.

10. REVIEW

10.1 Cheshire West and Chester Board Partners will undertake a reviewof the Board’s activities and functions by 31 May each year or at such othertimes as agreed.

10.2 The LSCB and its Partners shall determine the scope of the review provided that any review shall include:

10.2.1 An evaluation of the Board’s performance against agreed performanceindicators, targets and priorities;

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10.2.2 A review of the targets and priorities for the forthcoming financial year;

10.2.3 A report of any proposed changes to the arrangements;

10.2.4 A report of shared learning and training opportunities.

11. REPORTING

11.1 The Board shall approve a Business Plan and review this annually. It will be submitted to Partner organisations by 30th April each year.

11.2 The Annual Business Plan shall detail the activities and priorities for thefollowing financial year and review the work undertaken during the previousfinancial year.

12. AMENDMENTS TO THE GOVERNANCE ARRANGEMENTS

12.1 The Board shall from time to time review the operation of the governance arrangements. The Board may amend the governance, provided at least twenty onedays written notice of the meeting is given to Partners of the proposedamendments.

12.2 Details of the proposed amendment to the governance shall be included in the notice convening the meeting.

12.3 Board Partners shall use all reasonable endeavours to agree a proposed Amendment. In the absence of consensus, any proposed amendment shall be determined by a majority of Board Partners at the meeting. The decision of the Chair will be final in the event that there is an equal vote.

12.4 Cheshire West and Chester Board Partners shall review the Governance following legislative changes and or guidance.

13. DISSOLUTION OF THE BOARD

13.1 The Board shall remain in force unless otherwise dissolved by statute.

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