Dear Partners,

I have met many of you during my time working in Coventry but I would now like to introduce myself as the Interim Director of Children’s Services and one of the Statutory Safeguarding Partners. It is my pleasure to introduce the latest version of the CSCP newsletter which features of wealth of information linked to Safeguarding Practice Reviews which have been undertaken by the CSCP. It is vital that , as practitioners we take time to reflect and learn from these tragic cases and I would urge you take some time both to watch the recordings of the CSA conference which responds to findings from the Child T SPR,  as well as to read the most recent Safeguarding Practice Review and OMG in relation to Stephen.

As agencies it is important that we do not just look backwards but also that we are aware of emerging risks in the coming weeks and with this in mind please share the resources in relation to FGM and Swimming in open water within your agencies.

Neil MacDonald – Interim DCS

A new one-minute guide has been created covering FGM as well as an SPR on Stephen.

This FGM guide is a short but thorough overview on what FGM is, some of the potential signs, as well as the process to report it. 

The SPR guide is a detailed summary of a Serious Practice Review of Stephen and his lived experiences: many of which have created key learning points and recommendations for change. 

Both the SPR one-minute-guide and the  FGM one-minute guide can be found on the Coventry Safeguarding Children Partnership's one-minute guides on the website.

With a season of hot weather and summer holidays fast approaching, it is vital that awareness is raised regarding open water safety. 

Open water doesn't only mean safety in the ocean, but also in any large body of water such as canals, lakes, and rivers. Coventry may not be a seaside city, but there are many open bodies of water where it is known families like to enjoy a day swimming, boating, or being around water. 

Even the strongest of swimmers can be surprised by water, and lives can be lost very quickly. Be aware of the water currents and any safety measures in place. In the case of an accident or emergency call 999 as soon as possible.

For more information on what to do if you find yourself having fallen into open water, please see the Royal National Lifeboat Institutions advice on water safety. 

Please ensure that you and your family and friends remain safe around Open Water this summer. 

Coventry Holiday Activities & Food are offering their biggest ever HAF programme, with approximately 150 different activities and experiences, all with a meal provided. As well as this there’s a massive range of sports activities, arts, coding, trips, theatre, go-karting, music, outdoor activities, cooking – there’s something for everyone. There are approximately 27,000 places available at these activities available.

This scheme is subject to eligibility and the criteria for this can be found on Coventry City Council's website. For further information click the button below to access the digital brochure for the HAF program.

Your Voice Matters is a chance for students to get involved in a discussion around Safeguarding within the local area, through discussion groups held in schools and youth groups between Partnership representatives and young people.

This is a fantastic opportunity for Children and Young People to talk about and discuss what they understand about safeguarding and whether they have any concerns within their area. From these discussions we are able to discuss any findings with the responsible partners and help amend any issues that may be arising.