This paper investigates the nature and extent of the problems facing the children's social work profession. Last year, there were around 1,350 vacant jobs in this field, many of which were concentrated in certain areas. Despite a concerted effort to tackle this shortage of workers, there are widespread concerns about the skills, competencies and calibre of new recruits to the profession.
The peer challenge programme is an integral part of the sector-led improvement programme. While originally conceived as a centrally run system with a number of 'early adopter' councils, peer challenge has developed on a regional basis. Each region now has its own programme manager, a lead-Chief Executive, a lead-Lead Member for Children's Services, and a lead Director of Children's Services (DCS) who drive forward the regional approach.
Action for Children commissioned the Social Care Institute for Excellence to undertake a study of local authority decision-making in respect of long-term decision making and early intervention services. In particular, the study sought to gain a better understanding of the factors that facilitate and hinder delivery of improved outcomes for children and families over the longer-term, working on the basis that long-term planning and early intervention are inextricably linked.
This is a study of local authority decision-making in respect to long-term decision making and early intervention services. The study seeks to gain a better understanding of the factors that facilitate and hinder delivery of improved outcomes for children and families over the longer-term. This report synthesises the data gathered from: a literature review; 30 telephone interviews with senior officers and members in local authorities in England; and feedback from 49 subject matter experts attending five regional events.
Details the social work statistics on looked-after children, child protection, and secure care and close support accommodation for 2011-12.
Report that brings together the latest international thinking about the key issues relating to the implementation of evidence-based programmes, utilising both published work and expert opinion.
The aim is to provide a summary of issues that should be considered and planned for by those about to start implementing a new programme in order to increase the chances of success; to draw attention to sources of further information; and to share lessons that have been learned by others when implementing similar programmes.
Midlothian Sure Start, established in 2001, is a voluntary organisation with an aim to give very young children (from pre-birth to 11 years) the best possible start. A range of services are provided through six centres and on an outreach basis within the semi-rural community. This resources provides an overview of the work of the organisation and includes several case studies and details of an evaluation carried out in 2004.
Protecting children from harm is a key issue for health and social care. The publication of the Scottish Government’s revised National Child Protection Guidance (2010) seeks to take account of recent policy and practice developments and to reflect the principles, values, and National Practice Model of the Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) approach.
Position statement which is the first in a short series that articulates ADCS members’ collective aspirations for the care system.
ADCS is the national leadership organisation in England for directors of children’s services appointed under the provisions of the Children Act 2004 and for other children’s services professionals in leadership roles.
List of resources and organisations to support a project to support health improvement and reduce inequalities in North Ayrshire.
This project has a focus on early years and reflects the needs of communities using an asset-based approach. The project is working with people living and working in the Ardrossan Central and Castlepark areas to map community assets, identify local issues and develop solution-focused, community-based initiatives.