Inspectors praise support for Wiltshire's vulnerable children

Key agencies in Wiltshire have a "strong and committed" partnership, are dedicated to improving outcomes for vulnerable children and have a culture of continuous improvement, inspectors have reported. The Ofsted-led inspection praised the partnership, whose leaders have prioritised the protection of children, including those living in homes where domestic abuse occurs. One parent who was the victim of domestic abuse told inspectors: "The support has been wonderful. The police have been extraordinary and the local authority has been great.” Between 31 October and 4 November 2016, Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission, HMI Constabulary and HMI Probation carried out a joint inspection in Wiltshire, focussing on the response to children living with domestic abuse. In all cases viewed by the inspection team, risk had been identified and appropriate action taken to safeguard children. Overall, the inspectors found the multi-agency approach to protecting children and to reducing the risk of domestic abuse is strong. They said the core business of protecting children is done well and the quality of direct work was good. High quality safety plans were in place to ensure the immediate safeguarding of children and victims. The inspectors' letter acknowledges the "relentless commitment to improvement" across the partnership. It praises the good range of services available for families experiencing domestic abuse, with evidence of impact and improved outcomes. The Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is viewed as a key strength. Led by Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Police, the MASH was found to be an effective arena for information sharing and joint working ensuring leaders from across all organisations have a good understanding of what is happening at the "front door." The analysis of risk is considered and in cases identified within the MASH needing an immediate safeguarding discussion, inspectors saw a "swift and robust response.” The daily domestic abuse conference call held in MASH, which is chaired by the police, and involves key practitioners discussing domestic abuse cases which have arisen during the previous 24 hours, was highlighted as good practice. The inspection found that this led to improved information-sharing, resulting in all agencies having awareness of emerging risks in relation to domestic abuse. Wiltshire Police prioritises the reduction of risk and harm when responding to incidents. This is evident at all levels in the force and is leading to improved multi-agency working at the front line.