9 Jun 2025
Insights from the Learning Support and Capability Project
The Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel has published a comprehensive report titled Learning Support and Capability Project, offering critical insights into how local safeguarding partners can enhance learning from serious child safeguarding incidents. This research, conducted by Research in Practice, the University of East Anglia, and the Vulnerability Knowledge and Practice Programme, underscores the need for systemic improvements across multi-agency safeguarding practices.
Key Findings:
Variability in Review Processes: Significant differences exist in how Rapid Reviews (RRs) and Local Child Safeguarding Practice Reviews (LCSPRs) are conducted, often due to resource constraints, varying levels of practitioner experience, and inconsistent involvement of independent reviewers.
Capacity Challenges: Safeguarding partnerships frequently face limitations in capacity and capabilities, impacting the quality and timeliness of reviews. Professionals often juggle multiple review types, leading to feelings of overwhelm and "learning fatigue."
Need for Continuous Learning: The current approach to learning from safeguarding incidents is often linear and compliance focused. The report advocates for a shift towards continuous, systemic learning that acknowledges the complexity and non-linear nature of change in safeguarding practices.
Equity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI): There is a notable lack of confidence and capability in addressing EEDI within safeguarding reviews. The report emphasises the importance of integrating EEDI considerations to address systemic inequalities and improve outcomes for all children.
Multi-agency safeguarding partners are encouraged to review the full report to understand the detailed findings and implement the recommended changes within their organisations. By embracing these insights and recommendations, we can collectively strengthen our safeguarding systems to better protect children and support families.