childrens services

This study used five in depth case studies using documentary analysis, interviews and structured case response methods. The study aimed to consider the impact of the move towards integrated children's service arrangements on how social care services for deaf children and their families are delivered and whether these arrangements create opportunities or threats to identify, assess and meet social care needs. Although good practice was identified, there were concerns about the quality, availability and appropriateness of social care services.

This report is based on evidence from joint area reviews (JARs) conducted in 73 local authority areas April 2007-July 2008. Key findings, recommendations and methodology are followed by sections on safeguarding; looked after children; children and young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities; additional, education and other investigations; and service management and capacity to improve. Annexes give an overview of JAR grades awarded since April 2007 under the new methodology and a full list of JARs since April 2007.

Report of a study which investigated whether the Children in Need (CIN) Census, a device which collects data on all children receiving support from children's social care services, could be widened after 2009 to cover some other services used by CIN, e.g. youth justice, health services.

Report providing the results of an inspection of children's services in Haringey following the Baby P case and making recommendations for change.

Document providing guidance to agencies engaged in children's services on the planning and delivery of short breaks, including breaks from caring and emergency crisis support.

Briefing paper focusing on the effectiveness of interventions in complex child protection cases. Effectiveness here is defined as the prevention of further maltreatment or significant impairment to the child's development.

The second Social Services Labour Market Report brings together a number of key data sources in order to analyse some of the major trends in the Scottish social services labour market (both children & young people and adult services).

Scottish Executive consultation on a draft Bill intended to support the implementation of Getting it right for every child, the reform programme for children's services.

The bill would place duties on agencies to promote the well-being of children and to work together. Also included in the bill are measures to ensure that the views of children are taken into account. Grounds for referral to the Children's Hearings system would also change if the bill were passed as legislation.

Report that describes how well social work services are performing and what people who use services think about them. The messages are clear; the majority of people of all ages who use services and their carers have valued them and think they have made positive differences to their lives. Staff who provide services are committed and look for ways to improve the services they offer to people.

Policy document setting out joint strategic priorities and key objectives and outcomes and focusing on better integration and provision of services for children and young people in the Argyll and Bute Council area.