Children at risk (From Barry And District News)

Children at risk

VULNERABLE Barry children are still at risk, according to a shock report on the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

The chief inspector of Social Services in Wales has slammed the children's services department, warning "children are not well serviced at present". And although he concedes the council is beginning to take some action, it has not moved fast enough to tackle issues raised following a critical social services department document in September 2000.

The latest survey, carried out in May 2001, focuses on some of the improvements made by the council. But the report says it must: n drive forward the developments contained in the action plan as a matter of urgency n engage staff at all levels to help the whole department n improve the capacity to scrutinise and manage performance in key service areas such as child protection.

The report does contain some positive comments. It says: "The prospects are still uncertain but the council is beginning to deliver on a plan of action." And it adds that although it has been working hard to provide 'good' services to protect youngsters at risk of harm, this has not been done consistently. One of the key issues highlighted is the difficulty in recruiting enough social workers who have the skills and experience needed.

Chief social services inspector Graham Williams told the News: "The Vale of Glamorgan has started to deliver on the programme but from a relatively poor position. It will be a long process and progress has to be made on many fronts simultaneously." The council must now maintain consistent leadership to drive forward its plan, engage staff in the improvement agenda and develop scrutiny of key areas, such as child protection.

A council spokesman told the News: "Effective supervision arrangements are in place to ensure all children's services staff work to clearly defined objectives and are encouraged to bring forward any concerns at an early stage.

"Management structures have been revised to ensure stronger, more effective leadership. Morale amongst staff is now much improved."

Additionally, he said, an Area Child Protection Committee is ensuring child protection services are integrated and cohesive across various bodies. Jane Hutt, Assembly Health and Social Services Minister, said: "I will ensure that progress in this area of work continues to be monitored regularly and reported publicly."