Congratulations to Norfolk Area Partnership for attaining Youth Justice SEND Quality Mark Status
Norfolk Area Partnership must be praised for the way they have used the Quality Assurance Framework over time to lever systemic improvement, supported by the commitment and tenacity of members of the YJ Management Board, working closely with YJS Management Team.
Initial benchmarking highlighted clear strengths, but also critical areas of development. The Quality Assurance process was used to explore opportunities to review and develop practice, and to develop further inter-service opportunities.
Close cooperation with the SEND Team enables needs that were previously unidentified to be met. Data integration across Services is now supported through ChildView. A strategic focus on children with SEND is leading to more effective inclusive practice across education settings, including more effective transition planning and support. Of particular note is the multi-agency Challenge 4 Change diversion initiative which has resulted in substantial reductions of children coming into the formal youth justice system.
Considerable progress has been made in developing effective partnership working to secure positive futures for children on youth justice pathways. Robust resettlement policies and protocols, together with “best practice provision guides”, underpin closer relationships with 16+ providers. Children are offered opportunities to re-engage with learning through Skill Mill, volunteering opportunities and ASDAN qualifications delivered by ETE workers.
It is clear that Norfolk Area Partnership is well on its way to securing Quality Lead status in the near future.
Well done Norfolk! It has been a pleasure working with you.