Agenda item - Brighton & Hove Safeguarding Children Partnership Annual Report 2023-24

Report of the Brighton & Hove Safeguarding Children Partnership (copy attached).

62.1 This item was presented by Deb Austin (Corporate Director - Families Children & Wellbeing) with accompanying slides.

62.2 Deb Austin outlined key aspects of the report via the slides, including the business plan of the partnership, current and ongoing activities, updates from Pan-Sussex partners and other such partners, and achievements and challenges to date and moving forward. Four key areas were discussed in depth, namely: DadPad & CoParentPad, Harmful Sexual Behaviours in Schools Project, Right Support Right Time, and Working Together 2023 Multi Agency Safeguarding Arrangements (MASA) 2024.

62.3 Councillor De Oliveira asked a question regarding co-parenting. Deb Austin responded to this question.

62.4 Councillor De Oliveira asked a question on what recommendations could be made to residents whose child may be being drawn into unhealthy misogyny. Deb Austin responded to this question, suggesting it is raised with the Child’s school in the first instance.

62.5 Councillor Grimshaw asked a question on the number of male children targeted, as identified by each school as requiring mentorship. It was resolved that this would be taken back and an answer to be given to the Councillor.

62.6 Councillor Grimshaw asked a question on if elements of the work can be put into PSHE in schools. Deb Austin responded to this question stating that it is part of the PSHE curriculum.

62.7 Stephen Lightfoot (NHS Sussex Chair) asked on a question on the safeguarding for children with learning difficulties and on if there are any lessons that can be learned in other health and care activities. Deb Austin responded to this question, outlining the work being done with respect to the question.

62.8 Alan Boyd (Healthwatch) asked a question on if a summary report will be published and on the alignment between adult and child safeguarding. Deb Austin responded to these questions, stating that a summary report could be looked at and that they are aware of the adult working group.

62.9 Stephen Lightfoot asked a question on if there is a pro-active approach with people we know are vulnerable. Deb Austin responded to this question, outlining that there a great resources in the city.

62.10 Tom Lambert (Chief Executive of the Carers Centre) made a statement on financial constraints and service reductions.

62.11 RESOLVED - that the Board agree to note the report.