The Munro review of child protection

1. The Munro review of child protection Implications for the Children and Young People VCS Based on the ‘More for Children’ report developed by Children England and Safe Network and the Munro Final Report, May 2011.

2. BACKGROUND In June 2010 the Secretary of State for Education commissioned a systemic review of the child protection system, with a focus on • strengthening the social work profession, • putting them in a better position to make well-informed judgements • based on up-to-date evidence • in the best interests of children and • free from unnecessary bureaucracy and regulation. ‘ What helps professionals make the best judgements they can to protect a vulnerable child?’ What has prevented previous reforms from achieving expected improvements? 1. Reducing bureaucracy 2. Performance and accountability 3. Early help and support

3. Prof. Munro analyzed the system and concluded that: • The importance of CYP safety and welfare and linked to that strong reactions when a child is killed or injured • A belief that the complexity and uncertainty of CP can be eradicated • A readiness to focus on professional error • Undue prominence given to performance indicators and targets • The prioritisation of process over quality and effectiveness A defensive system where professionals are preoccupied with system compliance rather than actual outcomes for CYP. Overly extensive statutory guidance, local rules and targets limit the ability to stay child-focused. Services have become so standardized that the range of responses offered do not match the variety of needs presented. High levels of prescription have hampered profession’s ability to take responsibility for knowledge and skill development

4. “A concern with doing things right rather than doing the right thing”. • A way forward which places greater emphasis on individual professional values, judgements and expertise • Moving away from an “over-bureaucratised” system • Professional autonomy - NOT professional compliance

5. Munro’s principles of an effective child protection system: 1. The system should be child-centred. Child-centred working in recognition of that CYP are individuals with rights and the have the ability to participatein relevant decisions 2. The family is usually the best place for CYP, but difficult judgements are sometimes needed in balancing rights and child protection duties. The right of a child to be with their family vs. the right to protection from abuse and neglect 3. Helping children & families involves working with them and therefore the quality of the relationship between the child and family and professionals directly impacts on effectiveness of help.

6. Munro’s principles of an effective child protection system – continued: 4. Early help is better for children. It minimises the period of adverse experiences and improves the outcomes for children 5. Children’s needs & circumstances are varied so the system needs to offer equal variety in its response. 6. Good professional practice is informed by knowledge of the latest theory and research. 7. Uncertainty and risk are features of child protection work. Risk management can only reduce risks, not eliminate them altogether. 8. The measure of the success of child protection systems is whether children are receiving effective help.

7. Authoritative practice “Authoritative practice means that professionals are aware of their professional power, use it judiciously and that they also interact with clients and other professionals with sensitivity, empathy, willingness to listen and negotiate and to engage in partnerships. They respect client autonomy and dignity while recognizing their primary responsibility is the protection of children from harm and the promotion of their well-being” Adapted from Jane Gilgun in Essex SCB ‘Authoritative Child Protection Practice - Quick Reference Guide’ (May 2011)

8. Autonomous & authoritative practitioner • Exercises professional judgement • Is confident in the face of facts & challenges • Shares information appropriately • Contributes effectively to assessments, conferences, core groups (does not avoid responsibility) • Analyses facts, ask questions, explores hunches & considers outcomes and impact “Helping children is a human process”.

9. OPPORTUNITIES for CYPVCS • Early help and intervention • More stress on ‘help’ than on ‘intervention’ • Importance of prevention • Importance of consent in achieving good outcomes – the quality of the family-professional relationship • The role of support & supervision as opposed to target driven performance management • The difference made to children’s and families’ lives – the most important indicator • Integrated working / inter-agency partnership work

10. CHALLENGES for CYPVCS A more authoritative practice Stress laid on professional judgement Less bureaucratic Local Authorities / less prescriptive delivery framework Acceptance of risk and complexity as factors inherent in CP PLACE GREATER RESPONSIBILITY &REQUIRE VCS TO: • Ensure adequate level of skill & knowledge - investment in training • Maintain strong inter-agency links (incl. with the local SCB) • Manage the roles of NSP & deputy NSP in relation to CP procedures • Have the governance, management, policy and procedures in place to manage increased risks & responsibilities • Have systems in place to evidence impact & cost-effectiveness “Reducing prescription without creating a learning system will not secure desired improvements in the system”.

11. How can CYPVCS respond to the Munro changes? • Fully consider and analyze the implications of the Munro review for their: – governance – management – service – practice • Be prepared for greater involvement in learning processes at the LA level (e.g. serious case reviews) and familiarize themsleves with relevant models of learning This is because the sector is assuming greater responsibility for cases of increased complexity and risk; Therefore, the likelihood is that more of them will be involved in e.g. SCRs • Actively engage with the consultation (Working Together) • In light of stronger role of LSCBs – know your SCB sector representative – know the mechanisms to have your voice heard at the LSCB – know your local SCB, its chair and Business Manager – be familiar with and routinely access the LSCB training programme – know your LSCB’s priorities for the year

12. CYPVCS response to Munro – cont. • Be clear about local arrangements for making CP referrals and make strong links with the Triage teams • Work in partnership with other agencies and demonstrate effective service delivery – to contribute to the revised inspection process (new framework) & positively engage with the inspection process • Retain a strong focus on supporting integrated approaches by: • Review of current experiences of integrated working • Review your current engagement with local schools and health and assess whether this is at a level appropriate for your service • Assess where your service fits within local commissioning priorities

13. CYPVCS response to Munro – cont. • Understand your local Health & Wellbeing Board, its functions, strategic priorities and know who the members are. • Be creative in exploiting the opportunities offered through funding for on-line and phone support services but be sure that you have in place safe practice protocols and guidance.

14. KEY MESSAGES: • Analyze Munro recommendations and reflect on your organization’s practice – develop your own plan to incorporate recommended changes and reflect them in your practice and approach • The value of professional knowledge & skills – TRAINING (ESCB & other) • Knowledge of local structures and systems (e.g. referrals) • Integrated and partnership working