Network Meetings                      Level 2

This course is aimed at all staff who require to have a clear understanding of the status and purpose of “network” meetings within the context of protecting children and young people from harm and abuse. It will: -

• Focus on all aspects of local guidance and procedures, also links with current legislation and guidance;
• Explore ways to promote multi-agency involvement and how to formulate effective protection plans;
• Focus on the tasks of convening, participating and chairing "network" meetings, before, during and after the meeting, including recording;
• Explore strategies for developing good communication skills and managing  conflicting perspectives

Target Audience:

It is appropriate for practitioners, team leaders and managers from all agencies involved in the care and protection of children and young people. Also relevant to practitioners, team leaders, managers involved in the provision of services to adults who are parents/carers of children/young people where there may be concerns that the needs of children/young people are not being met.  i.e. adult mental health workers, drug and alcohol workers, those who work with adults with learning disabilities and those who work in other community settings with adults who have contact with children/young people.

Pre-requisite Knowledge

Participants will be required to have a clear understanding of their own agencies role and child protection polices/procedures and have undertaken an introductory/foundation level child protection course i.e CYPPC Working Together - 3 day Introduction to Child Protection

Learning Outcomes

Participants will:

• be able to give examples of the circumstances which would prompt the convening of   a “network” meeting.
• be  clear about who is able to convene a “network” meeting, the purpose of the meeting and who should be invited to attend.
• be able to explain the role and responsibilities of the person chairing the “network” meeting.
• be able to give examples of why accurate records of the proceedings, the decisions taken and the reasons why should be made, circulated and retained.
• be able to give an example of how knowledge  gained from this course may  assist their practice by increasing their  confidence in their ability to manage  a“network” meeting.

Source Scottish Gov't Child Protection & Learning Framework