Renfrewshire Child Protection Service Praised

Inspectors have ranked child protection services in Renfrewshire as among the best in Scotland. HM Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) praised the prompt action taken to safeguard “at risk” children.

It also singled out how agencies worked together, evaluated their own work and helped raise public awareness.

Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee includes NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, Renfrewshire Council, Strathclyde Police and the Children’s Reporter.

Inspectors found that: “Services were easy to access and that support often continued after the immediate risks had been addressed.

“Staff across services took prompt and appropriate action when children were at risk of immediate harm or for whom concern had been expressed.”

The inspectors said that leadership across services “was excellent”.

Their report stated: “A clear multi-agency approach ensured staff worked well together to give co-ordinated help.

“Concerns raised by the public were followed up promptly and appropriately by both police and social work services. This resulted in children being protected.”

David Martin, chief executive of Renfrewshire Council, said: “Local authorities are in a unique position to actively protect children and to spot when intervention is needed.

“Social workers are on the frontline but teachers, nursery staff, housing officers, plumbers and electricians are all in a position to look and listen for the signs that a child needs help.

“The report acknowledges our efforts to involve all our employees in this vital work.”