Decision details

Reason for urgency: This item was included on the published Executive work programme however identified as a public report. During the drafting of the report, officers have determined that due to the item containing ‘exempt’ information as defined in paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, the report should be restricted. The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee has been consulted and has agreed to the issue being considered in private, having had regard to the urgency and the financially sensitive nature of the report.

The Director of Community and Environment submitted an exempt report to consider the findings of the review of the Council’s approach to and arrangements for safeguarding the vulnerable.

Resolved

(1)          That the conclusions, recommendations and the proposed range of actions arising from the internal review be supported.

(2)          That the Overview and Scrutiny Committee be requested to consider an annual report on safeguarding activities to be timed to include the annual self-assessment submission requirement for Section 11 of the Children’s Act 2004. 

Reasons

The issue of safeguarding across Council services is an important matter which all councils should be considering. It is a subject which is of recent increased statutory significance and has many facets. Therefore it needs a structured approach to be effectively managed.

Some good progress has been made over the past year or so but it is recognised that there is more to do, hence the joint internal review with South Northamptonshire Council. This review has proven very beneficial in strengthening the Council’s position and to ensure good practice is applied.

Alternative options

Option 1: To accept in part only or to reject the review report recommendations