Issue - decisions

Review of peer on peer abuse cases

30/11/2020 - Review of peer on peer abuse cases

THAT

a)    The executive note the contents and recommendations set out in the Peer on Peer Review MASH Report (appendix 1) as amended and express the view that: (1) in relation to section1.3 the review also investigated whether any children were put or left at risk. It found that according to the records held and cases under review, advice was given including national guidance at the time and was followed as far as was possible, separation was made and the likelihood of risk was reduced. We are aware however that contact between children, including sight of perpetrators and also bullying has taken place. With all due care being put in place, inadvertent contact remains possible and the findings here do not preclude this. Even now, with every effort being made and detailed guidance being shared with schools, we cannot guarantee that contact between children might not inadvertently occur however much care is taken. This includes outside of schools. We also acknowledge that harm has implications for social and mental health, potentially, well into adulthood; (2) all references to ‘alleged victim’ should be victim The executive agree the recommendations set out in paragraph 3 of appendix 1;

b)    The executive approves the executive response to the children and young people’s scrutiny committee’s recommendations set out in appendix 5 as amended;

c)    The executive approves the peer on peer model guidance set out in appendix 6 for use in all Herefordshire Schools; and

d)    The children and young people’s scrutiny committee be asked to review barriers to record keeping for children’s safeguarding.