If significant information is missing, the risk analysis will be skewed and the resulting judgment flawed. Clearer guidance for frontline workers in all the relevant agencies, as to which information may be recorded, kept and shared without consent, will help to give confidence and reassurance to those making difficult decisions quickly.
This often has to be done in a context of lawyers offering different interpretations as to whether human rights or data protection legislation should take precedence. In those circumstances the principle of the Children Act - that the welfare of the child is paramount, - should always prevail.
There is an implicit echo in this report of Lord Laming's enjoinder to do the basic things well. Conscientiousness and efficiency are needed on the part of those recording information, as well as adequate systems and sufficient people to match the scale of the task across the country.
This is a timely reminder of the threat posed by determined sexual predators and the importance of rigorous recruitment arrangements for every job which enables close contact with children. The Association of Directors of Social Services (ADSS) welcomes this short and effective review process, and the plan to revisit progress in six months time will concentrate the necessary minds.
Penny Thompson, John Coughlan, Children and families committee, ADSS
