Agenda item

The Board considered the final draft of the new Children and Young People Plan (CYPP) and an overview was given by Kate Kennally. Emphasis was placed on the fact that this is a partnership plan that should be a true reflection of the partnership. The structure of the plan is based around the child’s journey and identifies clear priorities and objectives with performance indicators, which should capture all issues pertinent to the work of this board.

The board explored the issue of youth violence; and was informed of some worrying news in relation to this matter. It was considered whether violence amongst youths was sufficiently captured in this plan. The board’s attention was drawn to the title headings in the plan of ‘Early Intervention and Prevention and Keeping Children’ and ‘Young People Safe’. In regards to Keeping Children and Young People Safe the priority of ‘Addressing unhealthy relationships based on exploitation and build aspirations for the future’ was highlighted and it was believed that this could be utilised to address concerns about ‘gang’ activity and youth violence. The board also heard from Steven Clarke, who was in agreement that the issue of violence amongst youths should be tackled within the plan. He also drew the board’s attention to concerns around gang activity and the efforts which has been involved in dealing with this issue. It was agreed that a multi-agency effort is vital to deal with this issue effectively.

Tim Beach informed the board of the work which had to be done in Barnet through the Barnet Safeguarding Children Board with regard to Child Sexual Exploitation. The board were told of some of the work which had already been undertaken in relation to this matter for example the cross borough conference which was held in partnership with the London Borough of Enfield on Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking. It was agreed that the plan effectively sets out the issues and provides a mechanism for matters to be discussed. It was suggested that a performance measure should be added to the plan, relating specifically to this issue.

In relation to ‘gang issues’ and violence amongst young people, it was noted that the results of these activities could be seen by front line health providers and a question was raised about the dialogue between the police, schools and health. Steven Clarke explained that there are school officers from the Police who also sit on the Multi-Agency Groups (MAG), who are based in schools. This post is a permanent one which enables good contact and dialogue in schools.

Claire Stephens raised the issue of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), she informed the board anecdotally, that numbers were rising, and questioned whether this should be reflected in the CYPP. She also drew attention to the fact most markers of FGM are hidden and can be best identified in schools. Andrew Howe suggested that School Nursing could be involved here.

Tim Beach stressed the importance of sharing information. Claire Stephens pointed out that signs were easily missed and raising dialogue in schools and in Primary care would help with highlighting soft signs which could be seen in schools. Donna Thornleyfurther reiterated that there was difficulty in picking up on the issue earlier and getting disclosure from individuals. It was agreed that the plan highlights the priority of exploring issues and seeks clarity on what the partnership wants school nurses to be doing.

It was suggested that a reflective process should be added to the plan. Julie Pal expressed that the role of the Volunteering & Community Sector (VCS) needed to be expressed more clearly in the plan.

Cllr Harper noted that it has been three years since the last plan and it has been improved and has now been taken to the next level. The Board agreed the plan, subject to amendments described above. The next step to be taken would be to look at design. It was considered that there should be changes to the NHS logo and the Metropolitan Police logo should be added. The plan will now go to Cabinet and the Barnet Partnership Board.