Agenda item

Karen Davison, Strategic Manager, delivered a report and presentation on the development and implementation of a ‘place-based approach’ in three early adopter localities across County Durham (for copy of report and presentation see file of minutes).

The Strategic Manager explained the aim of the project was to promote collaborative working and increase community involvement to promote family resilience. The Panel heard that early adopter localities have a community based, multi-agency arrangement for discussions to take place to provide early help and make the best use of resources.  This included developing an arrangement with schools in order that they can discuss issues with practitioners and facilitate early help conversations. Initial feedback had been very positive and the scheme was due to be rolled out to all localities from 2 March.

The Strategic Manager responded to questions as follows:

·      It was clarified that parental consent must be provided for discussions to take place and the Strategic Manager explained that the approach is crucial to the success of gaining that consent.  In some cases, where a person is reluctant to give consent, the approach is made by a trusted person to the family, for example a health visitor.  The Virtual School Head confirmed that the feedback on the project at Head Teacher’s briefings was very positive and it suggested that when parents are approached at an early stage with an offer of help, they are more receptive to it than they would be if the issue was left until a later stage, when the problem may have escalated. 

·      In response to whether help is available with housing issues, the Strategic Manager confirmed that there is engagement with housing associations.

·      With regard to the age range of those assisted, the Panel noted that this is pre-birth, up to the age of 25 and includes work with schools, nurseries and day care providers.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.