In October 2022 Welsh Government asked Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) to lead on a multi-agency rapid review of decision making in relation to child protection. Their aim was to determine how well the current structures and processes ensure that children’s names are placed on, and removed from, the child protection register (CPR) only when it is safe to do so.
This statement outlines the actions CIW have taken since publishing the findings in September 2023.
How we've worked together
Since September 2023, we have worked closely with partners across Wales to turn our recommendations into real change. We wrote to all Regional Safeguarding Boards (RSBs) asking how they would progress and measure the impact of the recommendations.
We carefully reviewed the responses from local authorities, local health boards, and education services, and held joint meetings and discussions with partners to understand their progress.
We established a structured evidence review process, involving collation, analysis and review of responses from local authorities, local health boards, and education services.
We convened joint meetings and round-table discussions with safeguarding partners to validate progress and address barriers.
Together with Estyn and Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW), we found a strong commitment from safeguarding partners to implement the Child Protection Rapid Review (CPRR) recommendations. Since the report’s publication, we have worked collaboratively to support and monitor progress, ensuring that improvements are embedded in practice across Wales.
We acknowledge the significant efforts made by RSBs, local authorities, local health boards, and education services. The improvement plans submitted by each region demonstrate a clear determination to strengthen multi-agency working, enhance child-centred practice, and improve partnership working, governance and accountability.
Progress and next steps
Since the publication of the CPRR report, we have worked with Estyn and HIW to monitor and review the improvements. There has been notable progress in collaboration, standardisation of thresholds, and child-centred practice. However, challenges remain in achieving consistency, robust data-sharing, and addressing workforce pressures. Across Education, increased school involvement and improved information-sharing, training and escalation pathways are beginning to ensure education insights are better reflected in safeguarding practice across Wales.
RSBs have developed performance dashboards and national trackers, and multi-agency training initiatives are being replicated. National leadership is working to integrate front-door services and promote co-location. Governance and assurance mechanisms have been strengthened. RSBs have been undertaking self-assessments to help maintain focus and gauge progress against the recommendations.
Overall, Wales has taken positive steps towards embedding child-centred practice, improving multi-agency collaboration, and strengthening governance. Continued national coordination and targeted support will be essential to maintain momentum and deliver the improvements envisaged by the CPRR.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the Child Protection Rapid Review. The dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit shown by safeguarding partners, regional boards, local authorities, local health and education services, have been instrumental in driving progress. Your commitment to improving outcomes for children across Wales is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure the highest standards of protection and care.
For further information or to access the published reports, please visit the Care Inspectorate Wales website
Care Inspectorate Wales