Equality improvement in Children’s Services. Debby Mckechnie

What did we already know? That we had to get better Every audit showed limited evidence, if any, that children’s identity was coming alive through assessments, reports and planning. There was limited training available that was specific to work with children and their families We did not have accurate, valid information about children’s identity in every case.

What did Ofsted find? Ethnicity and communication needs of children and families are routinely identified. The evaluation of strengths and needs arising from diversity in the work of CAF is a particular strength. This is less evident in assessments by children’s social care.

What else did they find? Ethnicity and language are consistently identified, with some good work with children seeking asylum. Attention to equality and diversity factors in respect of disability services is good. Safeguarding outcomes – equality and diversity was considered adequate Outcomes for looked after children and care leavers – equality and diversity was considered adequate

Within 3 months we had to…… Ensure that assessments fully consider issues of ethnicity, religion, culture and identity and that services are responsive to these needs to enable full engagement by children and their families.

So what did we do? Established the Equalities steering group Developed the Equalities action plan Supported the equalities symposium Established a number of task and finish groups to support the ambition of the steering group Actively collected missing identity information about our children and their families

What else did we do? Developed key messages for staff Set 2 key performance indicators Developed a learning and development strategy Delivered action learning sets to front line team and assistant team managers Proposed that common appraisal targets related to equality and diversity were set across children’s services work force.

What negatively affects families access to services Discrimination and prejudice Lack of trust Inappropriate services Services with an apparent lack of cultural competence Workers apparent inability to understand individuals and their backgrounds

How do we improve? Increase the participation of children by….  Asking them about themselves  Recognising that children have something to say, that it will be valued and responded to  Listen to children’s aspirations  Give children relevant and valid information to make choices  Actively involve children in their planning  Give then access to advocacy services

How we are going to promote positive attitudes and challenge prejudice Treasure diversity Challenge at all levels those who are resistant to including children and their families Know how to provide a service that is committed to equality and diversity Understand our statutory responsibilities Establish an inclusive culture Increase the confidence of parents, carers and children that their needs will be met.