Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Deputy Chief Executive.

The purpose of this report is to seek views on proposed priority areas for the SSP to focus on in a new SSP Plan. Given the cross-cutting nature of the Partnership’s work, this report is being considered by all Scrutiny Committees.

The Scrutiny Committee is asked to:

·         note the developing Stockport and GM Community Safety Plans, underpinned by completed strategic assessments, and timetables for further engagement and consultation going forward;

·         consider the proposed priority areas for action in the new SSP Plan set out at paragraph 4.3 of the report.

Officer contact: Peter Owston, 0161 474 3274, peter.owston@stockport.gov.uk

The Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report of the Deputy Chief Executive (copies of which had been circulated) seeking the views of the Scrutiny Committee on proposed priority areas for the Safer Stockport Partnership to focus on in a new Safer Stockport Partnership Plan.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         What was the reason for Stockport having higher than average alcohol admissions? In response it was suggested that the cause was likely to be more accurate recording by the Foundation Trust, although the longstanding issues with alcohol misuse were monitored by the Council and health partners.

·         Further information was sought on the significant increase in reports of Child Sexual Exploitation. In response it was stated that improved reporting resulting from greater awareness and about the manner in which data was recorded. It was clarified that the classification did not always refer to large, organised exploitation or even actual abuse, but did include reports about young people at risk. The Stockport team responsible for delivering Operation Phoenix had been judged through a peer review process to be the best in Greater Manchester.

·         Assurance was sought that developing problems were given particular priority to prevent escalation. In response, information as given about the work of the Aspire Team who provide support to other partners and intervention to help prevent harm, often for small cohorts but those at high risk.

·         Ensuring those involved in providing services or in contact with vulnerable people had the appropriate skills to identify issues and concerns should mean that more soft intelligence or early warning signs could be identified. In response it was confirmed that this approach was being taken in training front line staff, although there was further work to do.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.