Decision details

To inform the Executive about the progress with the MASH project and to endorse the MASH implementation programme to be fully operational from May 2016.

That

      i.        The Executive formally endorses the proposed implementation of a MASH in Bracknell Forest.

     ii.        The MASH funding proposal is included in the budget plans.              

The need for effective multi-agency working and information sharing in order to secure improved safeguarding outcomes is clearly stated in a number of reviews, policy documentation and statutory guidance.  To achieve greater multi agency information sharing MASH have been implemented across the Country.

At the time of a national review 26 of the 37 local authorities in scope, said that they had multi-agency models in place at the time of interview (between January and April 2013). (Multi Agency Working and Information Sharing Project Final report July 2014).  Since 2013 many more have been established.

According to the Office of Children’s Commissioner’s –Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in Gangs and Groups effective multi-agency working needs to become more widespread.

The Children’s Commissioner’s 2013 Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in Gangs and Groups found that both police and local authorities still identified the inability to share information as a key barrier to safeguarding children from sexual exploitation.  The report cited MASH as an encouraging development, combining the expertise and resources of several bodies in order to identify children at risk of sexual exploitation.  This co-ordination was identified as particularly important for children and young people who face several different risks. The inquiry found that: in 2013 23% of LSCBs reported having a MASH in their area. 18% had one under development

MASH are demonstrating benefits to both children and to Local Authorities.  The five other Local Authorities in Berkshire are implementing MASH over the next year and Bracknell-Forest needs to be part of these arrangements ensuring that children and families in the Bracknell Forest area receive the same level of service as others in Berkshire.

There is no workable alternative.  Thames Valley Police (TVP) who currently supplies the majority of referrals to Duty and Assessment Teams across Berkshire have agreed to support MASH across the six unitary authorities.  If BF continued with its present arrangements i.e. continuing with a Children’s Duty and Assessment Team, TVP would not support this by providing different arrangements for one authority.

Do nothing: this is not a viable option as TVP will not now be developing a referral centre.

Do minimum: a minimal change is not viable given the premises and ICT issues, the need to recruit staff and the need to redesign the deployment of current police, as well as Bracknell Forest and partner staffing resources to achieve the necessary change. 

A Co-located MASH arrangement: will deliver the full benefits of a MASH.

None

Not applicable.

Not applicable.