The Merton Council Health and Wellbeing Board met on Tuesday 23 January 2024 to discuss safeguarding reports, updates on NHS estates, and initiatives to improve children's health and wellbeing. Key decisions included noting the annual reports for the Safeguarding Adults Board and the Merton Safeguarding Children Partnership, and agreeing recommendations for the Young Inspector Membership of the HWBB Review.

Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report

Aileen Buckton introduced the statutory annual report for the Merton Safeguarding Adults Board (MSAB) for 2022-23. The report highlights the importance of community engagement and learning from safeguarding reviews. A key aspect of the report is the involvement of individuals with lived experience, such as the daughters of Sandra, whose case was subject to a Safeguarding Adults Review (SAR). The MSAB has also launched a Community Adult Safeguarding Champions Network to raise awareness and gather insights into safeguarding issues. The report details that 95% of enquiries concluded in 2022/23 met the person's preferred outcomes, and risk was reduced in over 93% of cases. Data analysis on ethnicity was also a focus, with ongoing work to understand and address disparities in how different communities are supported.

Merton Safeguarding Children Annual Report

Aileen Buckton also presented the Merton Safeguarding Children Partnership (MSCP) Annual Report for 2022-23. Similar to the adults' report, it emphasizes partnership working and learning from incidents. The report details the MSCP's priorities for children and young people's safeguarding, with a strong focus on incorporating the voices of children and young people through initiatives like the Young Scrutineer role. Merton is noted for being proactive in this area, with a young person working alongside an independent scrutineer. The report covers responses to national and local issues, including learning from the Child Q case and addressing the adultification of young people. A significant focus is placed on the Think Family approach and transitional issues for young people moving into adulthood. The report also stresses the importance of using data effectively to inform practice.

Update on the Joint Targeted Inspection

Jane McSherry provided an update on a joint targeted area inspection concerning serious youth violence, which involved inspectors from Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services, and His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation. The inspection focused on how agencies work together to protect children affected by serious youth violence and criminal exploitation. The inspection identified many strengths, including effective partnerships and a strong learning culture, particularly in valuing children's participation and voices. Areas for improvement were also identified, and an action plan will be developed in response to the findings, with the full report to be published on 12 February 2024.

HWS Priority Report - School Superzones

Annalise Johns presented an update on Merton's three GLA School Superzone grants, which aim to improve the environment around schools by reducing hazards and promoting health. The three schools involved are Merton Abbey Primary, Abbotsbury Primary, and St Mark's Primary.

• Merton Abbey Primary: The focus was on reducing car use to mitigate air pollution and prevent collisions. Funds were primarily used to appoint an Active Travel Coordinator. Initiatives included cycle training for students in Years 3-6 and the establishment of a Walking Bus for younger students. Despite enthusiasm from students, adult participation, including that of staff and parents, remained a challenge. The report noted that air pollution levels continue to be a concern.
• Abbotsbury Primary: This superzone addressed concerns about increased agoraphobia post-pandemic and safety issues related to car use around the school. Illegally parked cars were identified as a hazard for children crossing the road. Student input was gathered for improvement ideas, and the Highways Team plans to implement environmental improvements, including a raised refuge island. Further funding bids have been made to support these changes.
• St Mark's Primary: This initiative focused on addressing street drinking and mugging. A multi-disciplinary working group was formed, leading to improved CCTV, vegetation management for better visibility, enhanced lighting, and adapted patrol systems. These measures reportedly led to a significant reduction in anti-social behaviour.

The report highlighted that while student participation in active travel was positive, changing adult behaviour regarding car use remains a challenge. The council is exploring other cost-effective interventions for schools, such as parklets and cycle parking.

Young Inspector Membership of HWBB Review (Public Health)

Russell Styles introduced the role of Young Inspectors, a group of young people aged 17-24 who provide feedback on services for young people in Merton. Anna Huk, a Young Inspector, shared that her role has been encouraging, with young people's input being consistently fed into decision-making processes. This input is crucial for understanding the specific needs and feedback from children and young people across various projects. Further discussions are planned to enhance the voice of children and young people in decision-making.