Information for professionals

The Independent Reviewing Service, Children's Standards Unit would like to emphasise to all partner agencies the importance of professional attendance at Looked After Children's reviews and Child Protection reviews.

It is important to attend these meeting because:

• The input of all members of the care team or core group is vital and valued by Independent Reviewing Officers in supporting us all to gather a complete picture of the young person being presented at these meetings.  
• These meetings are platforms for the child's plan to be reviewed with independent oversight. This is vital to make sure all of the child's needs are considered at the same time as well as making sure that the plan remains effective in Safeguarding and promoting best outcomes for the child.
• Changes to planning can be recommended at these meetings if needed, so it is a chance for all members of the care team or core group to speak openly and honestly about their views as to the effectiveness of the planning.
• For young people who choose to come to their reviews, attendance by all the significant people in their lives sends a strong message to them, that everyone values their contributions and that we are all working together in their best interests. It is also an opportunity for young people to share their wishes and feelings and if key agencies are not present, this is a missed opportunity to work with children and young people directly and effectively.   
• Attendance at core groups and care team meetings ensures good information sharing. This planning remains an active and dynamic process in line with the changing needs of the child or young person between each review period. The meetings immediately before a Looked After review or Child Protection review are significant and should be used to clarify the plan that is to be presented at the next review. This will help to make the reviewing process constructive even where differences of opinion exist.

For more information please contact Lewis Anderson, Independent Reviewing Officer:
Email: Lewis.Anderson@southtyneside.gov.uk
Postal address: 38 Laygate Place, Laygate Centre, South Shields, NE33 5RT
Telephone: 0191 424 4625