The Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel’s Annual Report 2023 to 2024 – Published December 2024

safeguarding

The Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel’s Annual Report 2023 to 2024 provides crucial insights into the challenges facing child protection. A central theme is the profound impact of mental health on both children and their carers. The report highlights the alarming trend of children with mental health needs falling through gaps in the system, often resulting in delayed or inadequate support.

Furthermore, the report emphasises the critical link between parental mental health and child safeguarding. Parents struggling with mental health issues may face significant challenges in providing adequate care for their children, increasing the risk of harm. The report stresses the urgent need for improved support systems for parents with mental health conditions, not only to address their own needs but also to enhance their parenting capacity and protect their children.

The vulnerability of young children, particularly those under the age of one, is another key concern. The report emphasises the importance of early identification of risks within these crucial early years. This necessitates a robust system of early intervention, including strengthened health visiting services, to address family challenges proactively and prevent the escalation of risks to children.

The report also emphasises the devastating impact of domestic abuse on children. It calls for a heightened awareness of the unique vulnerabilities of children exposed to domestic abuse and the provision of specialist support services for these families.

To address these critical issues, the report outlines several key areas for improvement:

  • Strengthening Mental Health Support: This includes enhancing the ability to identify and assess children’s mental health needs, particularly in the early years. It also necessitates improved multi-agency collaboration between mental health services, social care, and education to ensure children receive timely and appropriate support.
  • Prioritising Early Intervention: Investing in early intervention services is crucial to address family challenges before they escalate and pose significant risks to children. This includes strengthening the role of health visitors in identifying and addressing concerns early on.
  • Improving Information Sharing: Effective information sharing between agencies is vital for a comprehensive understanding of children’s needs and risks.
  • Strengthening Leadership and Accountability: Clear leadership and accountability within all agencies involved in child protection are essential for the effective implementation of safeguarding policies and procedures.
  • Ensuring Adequate Resources: Adequate funding and resources are crucial to support effective child protection work across all sectors.

The report serves as a powerful tool for policymakers, practitioners, and the public to better understand the complex challenges facing child protection. By addressing these key areas of focus, we can work towards creating a safer and more supportive environment for all children. 

For Early Years Practitioners, this report highlights the critical role they play in identifying and addressing children’s needs early on. Building strong relationships with families, observing children closely, and communicating concerns effectively with other professionals are essential for ensuring children receive the support they need.

You can read the full report here Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel: annual report 2023 to 2024 – GOV.UK 

Kathy
Leatherbarrow
Early Years Consultant
Kathy Leatherbarrow is an experienced early years consultant with over 25 years in the field. She excels in improving childcare quality, mentoring staff, and exceeding Ofsted standards. Kathy is committed to providing every child with the best start in life.