This report set out the outcomes of a Reality Check Visit to Family Matters held on 22 July 2019. It had involved a visit to the Family Matters Teams based in Rock Ferry, so Members could look at the effects of co-location on the teams there.

The Chairman noted that Members had been encouraged by the positive impact of co-location. They had talked with the teams involved in keeping young people of various ages out of care and moving them in the right direction.

RESOLVED: That

1)  the contents of the report be noted and the following comments and recommendations be approved:

2)  Several teams advised that they had requested mediation training to enhance their ability to help families. Members would like reassurance that this can be delivered.

3)  Members were interested by the outstanding Ofsted inspection in Leeds and their use of family group conferencing and early help. Members would support the growth of early help schemes in Wirral to improve outcomes for Children and Families and will look forward to seeing this service helping to reduce the number of children in care.