DECISION

1.    To note this report and the progress made since the Scrutiny Review report was published in March 2018, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

2.    To approve the action plan which sets out the Council’s response to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Review Session in Appendix 2 to the report.

3.    To support the continuation of efforts made through newly implemented initiatives to disrupt gang activity, with particular attention on the improved quality and timeliness of services for children at risk of becoming involved in gang activity and serious youth violence.

4.    To acknowledge the recognition of Ofsted in monitoring visit reports as to the improvements made in Children’s Social Care.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN AND CULTURE (D. JONES)

Councillor Danny Hassell, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Young People, and Councillor Asma Begum, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Equalities, introduced the report on the proposed Action Plan following last year’s Scrutiny Review into Gangs and Serious Youth Violence.

They highlighted that this was a big concern for residents and so the Council was investing significant time and money into tackling the problem including working with partners where possible. For example, a violent crime summit had been held recently which had resulted in a statement of actions to undertake.

The Action Plan following the scrutiny review had resulted in 20 recommendations built around four themes with safeguarding central to all areas.

A large number of projects were being undertaken, strategies refreshed and new resources identified including creating new posts linked to the major trauma unit at the Royal London Hospital.

The Mayor welcomed the report and highlighted the real difference this work was making. He thanked Denise Radley the Corporate Director, Health, Adults and Community, Ann Corbett, Divisional Director for Community Safety and everyone involved in the work. He agreed the recommendations as set out.

RESOLVED

1.    To note this report and the progress made since the Scrutiny Review report was published in March 2018, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report.

2.    To approve the action plan which sets out the Council’s response to the recommendations of the Scrutiny Review Session in Appendix 2 to the report.

3.    To support the continuation of efforts made through newly implemented initiatives to disrupt gang activity, with particular attention on the improved quality and timeliness of services for children at risk of becoming involved in gang activity and serious youth violence.

4.    To acknowledge the recognition of Ofsted in monitoring visit reports as to the improvements made in Children’s Social Care.