Agenda item

Report of the Assistant Director of Childrens Services

The Assistant Director, Children’s Services, submitted a report (previously circulated) to provide an update on the progress and performance of the Designated Officers’ (DO) response to all contacts received relating to allegations/concerns of abuse by those who work with children for the period April 2022 to March 2023, and to highlight the required actions for the period April 2023 to March 2024.

The submitted report outlined the function of the Designated Officer and stated that all organisations that worked with children in Darlington were required to have policies and procedures in place in relation to what their organisation would do when an allegation was made against an employee / volunteer who was in contact with children. It was stated that these policies and procedures should be in line with Darlington Safeguarding Partnership multi-agency procedures.

Members entered into discussion on the linkages that took place between organisations following a substantiated allegation to ensure that a Social Worker’s record reflected any action taken; the propensity for SEND children to demonstrate challenging physical behaviour; and the sectors from which referrals may be expected.   

RESOLVED - a)That the contents of the report and the work undertaken during 2022/23, and the priorities of the Designated Officer service for 2023/24, be noted.

b) That the annual report be agreed.