Setting

London Borough of Sutton

The Lodge Honeywood Walk Carshalton Surrey SM5 3NX

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London Borough of Sutton

17th November 2003 Local Authority Adoption Services

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

Launched in April 2004, the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) is the single inspectorate for social care in England.

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Commission for Social Care Inspection

The Commission combines the work formerly done by the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI), the SSI/Audit Commission Joint Review Team and the National Care Standards Commission.

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The role of CSCI is to:

• Promote improvement in social care • Inspect all social care - for adults and children - in the public, private and voluntary sectors • Publish annual reports to Parliament on the performance of social care and on the state of the social care market • Inspect and assess ‘Value for Money’ of council social services • Hold performance statistics on social care • Publish the ‘star ratings’ for council social services • Register and inspect services against national standards • Host the Children’s Rights Director role.

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Inspection Methods & Findings

SECTION B of this report summarises key findings and evidence from this inspection. The following 4-point scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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The 4-point scale ranges from:

4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls) 'O' or blank in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. '9' in the 'Standard met?' box denotes standard not applicable. 'X' is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. London Borough of Sutton Page 1

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Headquarters Address

The Lodge, Honeywood Walk, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3NX

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Address

The Lodge, Honeywood Walk, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3NX

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service

London Borough of Sutton Page 2 Date of Inspection Visit 17th November 2003 ID Code

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inspections and bring a different

perspective to the inspection process. Name of Specialist (e.g.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

Local authority adoption services are subject to inspection by NCSC, to establish if the service is meeting the National Minimum Standards for Local Authority Adoption Services and the requirements of the Care Standards Act 2000, the Adoption Act 1976 as amended, the Adoption Agencies Regulations 1983 as amended and the Local Authority Adoption Service (England) Regulations 2003.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

This document summarises the inspection findings of the NCSC in respect of London Borough of Sutton. The inspection findings relate to the National Minimum Standards for Local Authority Adoption Services published by the Secretary of State under sections 49 of the Care Standards Act 2000.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The Adoption Agencies Regulations 1983 and the Local Authority Adoption Service (England) Regulations 2003 are secondary legislation, with which a service provider must comply. Service providers are expected to comply fully with the National Minimum Standards. The National Minimum standards will form the basis for judgements by the NCSC regarding notices to the local authority and reports to the Secretary of State under section 47 of the Care Standards Act 2000.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The report follows the format of the National Minimum Standards and the numbering shown in the report corresponds to that of the standards.

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INTRODUCTION TO REPORT AND INSPECTION

The report will show the following: • Inspection methods used • Key findings and evidence • Overall ratings in relation to the standards • Compliance with the Regulations • Notifications to the Local Authority and Reports to the Secretary of State • Required actions on the part of the provider • Recommended good practice • Summary of the findings • Report of the Lay Assessor (where relevant) • Providers response and proposed action plan to address findings

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INSPECTION VISITS

Inspections will be undertaken in line with the regulatory framework with additional visits as required. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Care Standards Act 2000. The inspection methods used in the production of this report are set out in Part B. Pre- inspection information, and the manager’s written self-evaluation of the service, have also been taken into account. The report represents the inspector's findings from the evidence found at the specified inspection dates. London Borough of Sutton Page 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED. The adoption service of the London Borough of Sutton, which is known as the Adoption and Permanence Team is based in The Lodge in Carshalton which also houses the Fostering Team, the Assessment and Care Planning teams of the Children and Families Service. The team, which comprises a full time manager and four full time and two part time social worker

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INSPECTION VISITS

posts, is a constituent part of the wider Adoption, Permanence and Fostering Service which also employs a recruitment and publicity officer and is led by a Service Manager.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The primary function of the Adoption and Permanence Team is to fulfil a range of tasks associated with providing a service for children looked after by the local authority for whom a return to their birth family has been ruled out. The team also provides a service to adopted adults. A service is provided to inter-country adopters in conjunction with the Overseas Adoption Helpline.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The authority has entered in to a Local Public Service Agreement with the Department of Health with the intention of increasing the numbers of children looked after by the borough who are adopted between April 2002 and March 2005.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The authority is a member of the South West London Adoption Consortium which seeks to pool resources in terms of access to adoption placements and in the provision of preparation training and ongoing support to adopters.

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INSPECTION VISITS

The service has developed rapidly during the last 2 years and although appointments have not been made to two newly created posts in kinship care and adoption support, the staffing establishment for the team appears to be adequate and provision has been made for the demands of new legislation. London Borough of Sutton Page 6

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INSPECTOR’S SUMMARY

(This is an overview of the inspector’s findings, which includes good practice, quality issues, areas to be addressed or developed and any other concerns.)

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Statement of Purpose (Standard 1)

This standard was partially met. A Statement of Purpose has been produced in response to the requirements of regulations and new legislation. This document adequately addresses all but two of those matters outlined in Schedule 1 of the regulations.

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Securing and Promoting Welfare (Matching) (Standard 2)

This standard is met. This is an area of particularly good practice. As a consequence the borough has a recruitment profile that mirrors the profile of Looked After Children. The creation of a recruitment and publicity officer post servicing the fostering and adoption teams has been critical in achieving this congruence and the borough is commended for this. There is a well-documented family finding procedure and a variety of strategies are employed to disseminate it.

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Prospective and approved adopters (Standards 3,4,5,6)

Each of the standards were met. This is also an area of good practice and adoptive parents praised the staff of the service for the efficient and sensitive manner in which the approval process was orchestrated. Publicity material is of a high quality and information packs are well presented. Preparation groups are run in conjunction with Consortium partners. They include contributions from adoptive parents, birth parents, adoptees and health professionals. The assessment process appears to be robust and to be characterised by a thorough and professional approach. Those people wishing to adopt from another country are referred to the Overseas Adoption Helpline for specialist preparation training and subsequently assessed by Sutton staff. Support is routinely provided to adoptive parents until the making of an adoption order and for 12 months thereafter.

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Birth Parents and Birth Families (Standards 7,8,9)

Each of the standards was assessed as partially met. Field social workers are the primary source of support for birth parents. They may be referred for counselling and support to a local voluntary agency but do not routinely have access to a support worker independent of their child’s social worker. Birth parents and other significant family members are consulted and given the opportunity to be involved in the making of the permanency plans for children. The content of the Form E is shared with birth family members whenever possible and their views about adoption are recorded on files, in Forms E, in matching reports and in later in life letters. The authority operates a system for letterbox contact between adopted children and birth family members. Support services are being developed in line with the Adoption and Children Act 2002.

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Adoption Panel and Agency Decisions (Standards 10,11,12,13)

All four standards were assessed as met. The Sutton Adoption and Permanence Panel has an independent chair and meets once a London Borough of Sutton Page 7 month. There are clear written policies and procedures relating to the handling and implementation of panel functions. The ‘Panel Briefing’ that takes place in advance of each panel is a quality assurance forum that engenders confidence in presenting social workers and generates panel debate that focuses upon substantive issues rather than the minutiae of paperwork. It is an example of excellent practice that has wide ranging benefits. Prospective adopters have the opportunity to attend the adoption panel. Panel members include an adopted adult, an adoptive parent and an educational psychologist. In November 2003 there was an appropriate gender mix but no panel members were from black ethnic minorities. The elected member has positions on a number of key committees within the

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Adoption Panel and Agency Decisions (Standards 10,11,12,13)

Council and is an effective conduit between the adoption panel and other forums and key personnel that represent the interests of children in the Borough.

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Management of the Adoption Agency (Standards 14,15)

Both standards were assessed as met. Those involved in managing the adoption service are suitably qualified and experienced. it is well managed, both strategically and operationally. It is a service that has undergone radical change in the last two years under the leadership of managers who have negotiated the necessary resources to achieve an adequate staffing establishment and to be responsive to the demands of new legislation.

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Provision and Management of the Adoption Agency (Standards 16,17,18)

Both standards were assessed as met. The adoption service is managed effectively and efficiently and operates in accordance with the Statement of Purpose. There are sound and wide ranging procedures for monitoring, controlling and reporting on the activities of the service and for ensuring quality performance. The existence of a Public Service Agreement has given further impetus to the activities of the adoption service. The service has access to a medical adviser and to legal advice. A clinical psychologist also provides support to the adoption and fostering teams.

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Employment and Management of staff (Standards 19,20,21,22,23)

Four of the five standards were assessed as met and one as partially met. Recruitment and selection procedures follow good practice in safeguarding children and young people. The staff team employed at the time of the inspection had appropriate qualifications and skills. They demonstrated commitment and enthusiasm and it was evident to inspectors that they are motivated to achieve high standards in adoption practice. Staff confirmed that they receive good quality supervision on a regular basis and have access to external training. The quality of administrative support to the team was reported by social work staff to be ‘excellent’. There are structures and systems in place to ensure that assessments and approvals of prospective adopters are managed and implemented effectively and completed within the timescales prescribed by National Adoption Standards. The staffing establishment appears to be adequate.

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Records (Standard 25,26,27,28)

Two of the four standards were assessed as met and two as partially met. The authority has written policies on confidentiality, on recording and on file retention and storage. Those case records that were seen at the inspection were well presented and organised in a way that made them easy to access. There is a file audit policy and evidence of audits and of actions arising from them was seen. Records of supervision decisions appeared on the files of both children and adopters. The authority has a policy on access to user records. Relevant information is provided from case files to adoption agencies and local authorities in order to facilitate placements. Confidential records are stored securely and IT systems are password protected. Up-to-date, comprehensive personnel files are maintained for each member of staff.

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

Adoption and Permanence Team workers occupy adequate office accommodation adjacent to that occupied by administrative staff and the Fostering Team. The building is accessible to the public. Staff are supported by efficient and robust administrative systems. Appropriate measures are in place to safeguard IT systems and security measures operate within the building. London Borough of Sutton Page 9 Reports and Notifications to the Local Authority and Secretary of State

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

The following statutory Reports or Notifications are to be made under the Care Standards Act as a result of the findings of this inspection:

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(3) of the Care Standards Act 2000 that the Commission considers the Local Authority's adoption service satisfies the regulatory requirements:

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

YES Notice to the Local Authority under section 47(5) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of failure(s) to satisfy regulatory requirements in their adoption service which are not substantial, and specifying the action the Commission considers the Authority should take to remedy the failure(s), informing the Secretary of State of that Notice:

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(4)(a) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of a failure by a Local Authority adoption service to satisfy regulatory requirements which is not considered substantial:

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Fitness of Premises (Standard 29)

NO Report to the Secretary of State under section 47(1) of the Care Standards Act 2000 of substantial failure to satisfy regulatory requirements by a Local Authority adoption service:

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The grounds for the above Report or Notice are:

That the inspection identified one failure to satisfy regulatory requirements that is not substantial. London Borough of Sutton Page 10

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(Not relevant at first NCSC inspection)

Requirements from last Inspection visit fully actioned? NA

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas not addressed from the last inspection report which indicate a non-compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000, the Adoption Agencies Regulations 1983 and the Local Authority Adoption Service (England) Regulations 2003. No. Regulation Standard Required actions Timescale for action

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Action is being taken by the National Care Standards Commission to monitor

compliance with the above requirements. London Borough of Sutton Page 11

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS IDENTIFIED DURING THIS INSPECTION

Action Plan: The appropriate officer of the Local Authority is requested to provide the Commission with an action plan, which indicates how requirements and recommendations are to be addressed. This action plan is shown in Part D of this report.

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which indicate non- compliance with the Care Standards Act 2000, the Adoption Act 1976, the Adoption Agencies Regulations 1983, the Local Authority Adoption Service (England) Regulations 2003 or the National Minimum Standards for Local Authority Adoption Services. The Authority is required to comply within the given time scales in order to comply with the Regulatory Requirements for adoption services. No. Regulation Standard * Requirement Timescale for action

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

1 2 LA1 That the Statement of Purpose must be amended to include; a summary of the complaints procedure of the local authority and the address and telephone number of the Commission March

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

Adoption Agencies Regs 1983 15 (3) LA26 That a written record must be kept of any access provided or disclosure made in line with Regulation 15 of the Adoption Agencies Regulations 1983 Immediate

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STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS

3 11 LA28 Personnel files must be established for all panel members including all information in Sch. 3 March London Borough of Sutton Page 12

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

Identified below are areas addressed in the main body of the report which relate to the National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice issues which should be considered for implementation by the Authority or Registered Person(s). No. Refer to Standard * Recommendation Action

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

1 LA1 The style and presentation of the Statement of Purpose should be modified to take account of the readership

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

2 LA1 Items equivalent to the in-house consultation materials used with children and young people in advance of statutory reviews should be produced to assist children of all ages and abilities to understand the adoption plan

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

3 LA3 A copy of the complaints procedure of the authority and the policy on access to records should be included in the information pack that is sent to prospective adopters

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

4 LA4 The particular preparation needs of foster carers seeking to become approved as adopters for children in placement should be addressed more appropriately

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

5 LA4 Confirmation should be obtained with regard to the employment of applicants in the previous five years 6 LA4 The service should develop guidelines as to the circumstances in which previous partners of either applicant will be contacted 7 LA4 Recording which provided evidence for the judgements made in Forms F should be retained on file as a matter of course

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

8 LA6 The Family Finding Procedure should be revised to include additional references to arrangements associated with convening disruption meetings

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

9 LA6 The workload of the adoption support worker should be closely monitored

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

10 LA7 Birth parents should have access to a support worker that is independent from the child’s social worker

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

11 LA8 The timing of the transfer of cases involving children placed for adoption should be given careful consideration

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

12 LA9 Mechanisms for providing support to birth parents should be extended and that they should be provided with written information about support services

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

13 LA10 Consideration should be given to including observation of the adoption panel in the induction of new social workers and reviewing officers 14 LA18 A written protocol governing the role of specialist advisers should be produced London Borough of Sutton Page 13 15 LA19 Specialist training should be provided for staff who take responsibility for counselling under section 51 of the Adoption Act 1976

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

16 LA20 Staff who attend external training should routinely cascade the content to colleagues

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

17 LA25 The form of the record of supervision decisions placed on adopters files should replicate that on children’s files

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

18 LA26 The policy and practice guidance on access to user records should take into account the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1998

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

19 LA26 Written confidentiality agreements should be routinely obtained from those persons to whom information is being disclosed from case files and that a written record of access provided or disclosure should be kept

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

20 LA27 The adoption service should notify the National Care Standards Commission or its successor organisation of the instigation and outcome of any child protection investigation involving children placed for adoption

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GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THIS INSPECTION

• Note: You may refer to the relevant standard in the remainder of the report by omitting the 2-letter prefix e.g. LA10 refers to Standard 10. London Borough of Sutton Page 14

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The following inspection methods have been used in the production of this report

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Placing authority survey NO Placing social worker survey YES Prospective adopter survey YES Approved adopter survey YES Birth parent / birth family member survey YES Checks with other organisations and Individuals • Directors of Social services NO • Specialist advisor (s) YES Tracking Individual welfare arrangements YES • Interview with children NO • Interview with adopters and prospective adopters YES • Interview with birth parents NO • Interview with birth family members NO • Contact with supervising social workers YES • Examination of files YES Individual interview with manager YES Information from provider YES Individual interviews with key staff YES Group discussion with staff YES Interview with panel chair YES Observation of adoption panel YES Inspection of policy/practice documents YES Inspection of records (personnel, adopter, child, complaints, allegations) YES

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Date of Inspection 17/11/03 Time of Inspection 09.30 Duration Of Inspection (hrs) 63 Number of Inspector days 8.4 Additional Inspection Questions: Certificate of Registration was displayed at time of inspection NA The certificate of registration accurately reflected the situation in the service at the time of inspection NA

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

Total Number of staff employed (excluding managers) 4 London Borough of Sutton Page 15 The following pages summarise the key findings and evidence from this inspection, together with the NCSC assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards have been met. The following scale is used to indicate the extent to which standards have been met or not met by placing the assessed level alongside the phrase "Standard met?"

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

The scale ranges from: 4 - Standard Exceeded (Commendable) 3 - Standard Met (No Shortfalls) 2 - Standard Almost Met (Minor Shortfalls) 1 - Standard Not Met (Major Shortfalls)

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PART B INSPECTION METHODS & FINDINGS

"0" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion. "9" in the "Standard met?" box denotes standard not applicable on this occasion. “X” is used where a percentage value or numerical value is not applicable. London Borough of Sutton Page 16

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The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• There is clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

which describes accurately what facilities and services they provide. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 A Statement of Purpose has been produced in response to the requirements of regulations and new legislation. This document adequately addresses all but two of those matters outlined in Schedule 1 of the regulations. To comply fully it should be amended to include; a summary of the complaints procedure of the local authority and, the address and telephone number of the Commission. The readership of the Statement of Purpose may include children, as well as all of those adults in the adoption triangle and it is recommended that the style and presentation be modified to take account of this.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

Policies, procedures and other written guidance to staff reflect the content of the Statement of Purpose and the inspectors concluded that it provides an accurate description of the facilities and services provided by the London Borough of Sutton adoption service.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

An annual report on the adoption service is presented to the Learning Services Performance Committee of the Council. In future the annual report should also consider the performance of the service against the Statement of Purpose.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

The service has not developed a children’s guide to adoption but utilises the BAAF publication; ‘Adoption – What it is and what it means. A guide for children and young people’. It is designed for the use of children of six upwards for whom adoption is the plan and embraces all of that information required by standards and regulations. It also provides space for the agency to incorporate details of its own services. The manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team indicated that the adequacy of this publication would be reviewed in due course.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

Inspectors saw excellent examples of in-house consultation materials that have been developed for use with children in advance of statutory reviews and recommend that the service develop something that is similar in style and presentation for use with children, of all ages and abilities, for whom adoption is the plan.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

Adopters are given advice about age appropriate literature that will assist adopted children to understand the concept of adoption at different stages in their life.

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There is a clear written statement of the aims and objectives of the adoption agency

Information provided by the adoption service is not routinely made available in alternative formats or languages but would be produced as required. London Borough of Sutton Page 17

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executive side of the council?

Is there a children’s guide to adoption? YES

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The needs and wishes, welfare and safety of the child are at the centre of the adoption process.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

children waiting for adoption locally. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 This is an area of particularly good practice.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

The service has a Marketing and Recruitment Plan for the period from September 2003 to March 2005 that is based on close monitoring and sophisticated analysis of two years of recruitment and advertising activity. As a consequence the borough has a recruitment profile that mirrors the profile of Looked After Children.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

The creation, in 2001, of a recruitment and publicity officer post servicing the fostering and adoption teams has been critical in achieving this congruence and the borough is commended for this.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

The general adoption recruitment objectives are: • to generate an increase in enquiries for older children, for children with disabilities and for children from ethnic minorities and dual heritage backgrounds and • to increase the number of adoption enquiries from outside the area in order to meet the need for adoption placements to be made away from the borough

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

A series of other objectives relate to timescales associated with the distribution of information packs and application forms, to the conduct of initial visits and to the completion of assessments.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

Staff are alert to the need to be cautious and to provide training for both staff and panel members in advance of promoting recruitment in the specialist press or in minority forums of various kinds.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

The recruitment and publicity officer is responsible for general advertising campaigns for adopters as well as specific advertising for individual children, and routinely attends the first permanency planning meeting for a child.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

There is a clear family finding procedure. This is encompassed in a booklet that is designed to be a working tool to guide departmental staff through the process, it specifies tasks and timescales and includes report pro-formas and sample agendas for planning meetings. Briefing sessions for field social work staff and independent reviewing officers on the process and the importance of the early formulation of permanency plans complement this guidance. These formal strategies, allied with the close physical proximity of adoption and permanence staff to other social work teams, are instrumental in promoting effective planning for children. London Borough of Sutton Page 19 On the basis of evidence gathered during the inspection it would appear that children are matched with adopters who best meet their assessed needs. Inter-agency placements will be sought at an early stage for children with very specific needs. Two inter-agency matches

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

were recommended at the panel observed by an inspector in November 2003. Membership of the South-West London Consortium widens the pool of approved adopters to which Sutton staff have access but at the time of the inspection the benefits in terms of placements had been limited.

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effective strategies to recruit sufficient adopters to meet the needs of the range of

Inspectors found evidence to the effect that the views and feelings of children had been taken in to account in matching them with adopters.

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In the last 12 months:

How many children were identified as needing adoptive families? 12 How many children were matched with adopters? 12 How many children were placed with the service’s own adopters? 10 How many children were placed with other services’ adopters? 2 How many children were referred to the Adoption Register? X

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adopters does this represent?

X % How many sibling groups were matched in the last 12 months? 2

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The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The adoption agency recruits and supports sufficient adopters from

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diverse backgrounds, who can offer children a stable and permanent home

to achieve a successful and lasting placement.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

treated fairly, openly and with respect throughout the adoption process. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 See also Standard 2.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

Those adoptive parents who were interviewed and who completed questionnaires were, almost without exception, positive about the speed and nature of the response at the point of initial enquiry. This was particularly true of those who had made contact in the two years prior to the inspection. All of them praised the staff of the service for the efficient and sensitive manner in which the subsequent process was orchestrated.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

Publicity material is of a high quality and information packs are well presented. The text is clear and concise and makes reference to all of those matters referred to in National Minimum Standards, including the rationale for prioritising certain applications. Timescales for the despatch of information packs are clearly defined and closely monitored.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

It is recommended that copies of the complaints procedure and of the policy on access to records are included in the information pack.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

An initial enquiry form is enclosed with the information pack and those who return it are offered an initial interview. Thus, all applicants who live within Sutton will be seen at least once. Dates for initial interviews are pre-planned. This is good practice that serves to reduce waiting times.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

The initial interview will usually be conducted by two staff. The outcome is relayed to the manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team who will determine whether or not to proceed. That decision will be based on the probability of the applicants providing a service that is needed. If the eligibility criteria are met and the applicants seem likely to progress to approval they must attend preparation groups before the assessment can commence.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

Staff of the adoption service undertake preliminary interviews with those wishing to adopt from another country but refer applicants to the Overseas Adoption Helpline for specialist preparation training. Assessments are subsequently carried out by Sutton staff and applications presented to the Sutton adoption panel.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

Discussion with approved adopters and scrutiny of files confirmed that there is consistency between policy and practice in relation to recruitment, preparation and assessment.

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about the preparation, assessment and approval procedure and that they will be

Members of the Adoption and Permanence Team operate a duty system in conjunction with the Fostering Team. London Borough of Sutton Page 21 London Borough of Sutton Page 22

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

assessment, preparation and approval process. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 See also Standard 3.

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

Preparation groups are run three or four times a year in conjunction with the two Consortium partners. The facilitators of the groups will always include a member of the Sutton Adoption and Permanence Team. The groups are held in a convenient location and run over four days; two weekdays and two Saturdays. They include contributions from adoptive parents, birth parents, adoptees and health professionals. Attendance of both partners in a couple is mandatory and the groups are a constituent part of the assessment process. Participants are made aware of the fact that the groups have an assessment component. Pertinent issues are relayed to the assessing social worker and the views of the group facilitators are recorded in the Form F. Issues of anti-discriminatory practice are addressed in the training programme.

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

The facilitators evaluate the content of each preparation group and participants are invited to give feedback. Staff are aware of the pitfalls of trying to meet the needs of a range of prospective adopters in a single group and of the need to tailor the composition of groups to ensure that issues relating to certain categories of adopter are adequately addressed. In the course of the inspection it became apparent that groups and other aspects of the preparation were failing to address the particular needs of foster carers seeking to become approved as adopters for children already in placement.

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

Adoptive parents reported that they found preparation groups informative and thought provoking and that they had particularly valued the contributions of those directly involved in the adoption triangle. It was also clear from the comments of some that the aim of developing informal support networks between adoptive families had been achieved.

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

The individual assessment of prospective adopters is recorded on BAAF Form F. Staff undertaking assessments had attended BAAF training in the completion of Forms F. They reported that, as a consequence of that training, the assessment process is ‘more thorough’ and that practice in relation to consultation with referees, the inclusion of education and employment chronologies, contact with previous partners and competencies had developed.

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Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

In the interests of good practice it is recommended that confirmation is sought in relation to the employment record of applicants over the previous five years.

p.24

Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

The assessment process appears to be robust and to be characterised by sensitivity, thoroughness and a professional approach. Adoptive parents spoke and wrote very positively about their experience of the assessment process and of the staff undertaking assessments. The assessment includes health and safety checks.

p.24

Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

With one exception, the files of adopters that were examined included recording which provided evidence for the judgements made in Forms F. Such recording should be retained on files as a matter of course.

p.24

Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

Appropriate statutory checks are undertaken on prospective adopters. London Borough of Sutton Page 23 Checks are not routinely made on previous partners, however the appropriateness of doing so is considered on a case by case basis. In the interests of applicants and assessing social workers it is recommended that the service develop guidelines as to the circumstances in which previous partners of either applicant will be contacted.

p.24

Prospective adopters are involved in a formal, thorough and comprehensive

The administrative procedures for initiating and tracking the completion of relevant checks are managed efficiently. London Borough of Sutton Page 24

p.25

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

need. This will include the role of the Adoption Register for England and Wales. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Approved adopters are provided with written information about the matching, introduction and placement process.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

The service has produced a matching report pro-forma that addresses all the relevant issues. Those reports seen by inspectors were comprehensive, considered pieces of work.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

Details of the Adoption Register are included in the information pack and inspectors saw evidence of routine referral to the Register.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

There is undoubtedly an intention to ensure that adoptive parents are provided with as much background information about the child as possible and each of the six domestic adopters who submitted questionnaires indicated that they had been given adequate information. Adopters are given a copy of the BAAF Form E on any child/ren whose placement they are considering. They would invariably be provided with additional information from other sources, notably current carers. Preliminary meetings with the social worker for the child and where appropriate, with current carers, take place prior to the matching recommendation.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

It was apparent from attendance at panel that members are very aware of the fact that the BAAF Form E will serve as the primary source of background information for the child later in life and that the content should therefore be accurate and carefully presented.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

Contact arrangements with birth family members and significant others are recorded, as are the arrangements for contact with the adoption agency in the event of the death of the adopted child.

p.26

introduction and placement process, as well as any support to facilitate this they may

Prospective adopters are asked to produce information about themselves, in a suitable format, that can be shared with the child to be placed with them.

p.26

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

for the children placed with them. Key findings and evidence Standard met? 3 It was evident from discussion with adoptive parents and from questionnaire responses that preparation and support services are designed to, and indeed do, assist adopters to develop their understanding of issues relating to adoption and to the specific needs of children.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

The preparation programme addresses relevant issues and utilises a variety of exercises that are intended to assist applicants to make links between a child’s previous experiences and their behaviour, to recognise the importance that identity plays in adoption, to acquire an understanding of attachment and to appreciate the life-long nature of adoption. Applicants are provided with an abundance of written material and references which they can use to enhance the learning that takes place in groups and during the assessment process.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

Support is routinely provided to adoptive parents until the making of an adoption order and for 12 months thereafter. In feedback to inspectors a small number of waiting adopters expressed dissatisfaction with the frequency and nature of the support offered to them in the interval between approval and the placement of a child.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

Adoption support workshops take place three times a year under the auspices of the South West London Consortium. The meeting in December 2003 was to focus on mental health issues. There is an annual adoption picnic which offers a range of entertainment as well as the opportunity for adopters to forge mutually beneficial links.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

The authority has developed an adoption support strategy in response to the requirements of the Adoption and Children Act 2002 that includes the creation of a specialist adoption support worker post. Whilst this constitutes a commendable response to new legislation inspectors were concerned that there was potential for the post-holder to become the repository of too many diverse tasks. That post was vacant at the time of the inspection in November 2003.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

There is an expectation that adoptive parents will be given appropriate memorabilia that relates to the child’s life prior to placement and that this will be shared with the child to assist them to understand and reflect upon their history.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

Inspectors found evidence to suggest that foster carers going on to adopt were not given accurate and clear information about adoption allowances and the production of written information for this specific group is therefore welcomed.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

The manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team indicated that the family finding procedure was to be revised to take account of actual practice in relation to disrupted placements and that the revision would incorporate references to the arrangements associated with disruption meetings. Inspectors endorse this intention.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

The minutes/outcomes of disruption meetings are made available to the adoption panel.

p.27

Adoptive parents are helped and supported to provide stable and permanent homes

Number of adopter applications started in the last 12 months 12 London Borough of Sutton Page 26 Number of adopters approved in the last 12 months 12

p.27

last 12 months

Number of adopters approved but not matched 8

p.28

last 12 months

Number of adopters referred to the Adoption Register X

p.28

The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Birth parents are entitled to services that recognise the lifelong

p.29

implications of adoption. They will be treated fairly, openly and with

respect throughout the adoption process.

p.29

Standard 7 (7.1 – 7.5)

The service to birth parents recognises the lifelong implications of adoption. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Field social workers are the primary source of support for birth parents. Staff of the Adoption and Permanence Team are invariably present at meetings between birth parents and adopters and do encourage their field social work colleagues to gather as much background information and memorabilia as possible. However, they cannot significantly influence the quality of support that is offered to birth parents and do not ultimately determine whether and how this is done.

p.29

Standard 7 (7.1 – 7.5)

Birth parents may be referred for counselling and support to a local voluntary agency on the basis of funding from the local authority but they do not routinely have access to a support worker independent of their child’s social worker. At the time of the inspection and in line with the content of new legislation the members of the South West London Consortium were considering the possibility of entering in to reciprocal arrangements to provide support to birth parents.

p.29

Standard 7 (7.1 – 7.5)

Examination of files and attendance at panel demonstrated that birth parents and other significant family members are consulted and given the opportunity to be involved in the making of the permanency plans for children. The content of the Form E is shared with birth family members whenever possible. Their views about adoption are recorded on files, in Forms E, in matching reports and in later in life letters. London Borough of Sutton Page 28

p.29

Birth parents and birth families are enabled to contribute to the maintenance of their

child’s heritage. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 In discussion with some adopters it became clear that material for life story books and memory boxes is not always gathered at an early stage and that, as a consequence, opportunities to acquire photos, other precious items and factual information may be missed.

p.30

Birth parents and birth families are enabled to contribute to the maintenance of their

Staff of the Adoption and Permanence Team confirmed that although the need for life story work is firmly on the permanency planning agenda it is not always embarked upon at an appropriate stage by field social workers. Problems in this area seem to be associated with staff turnover as well as the timing of the transfer of cases from the Family Support Team to the Care Planning Team for Looked After Children and Young People.

p.30

Birth parents and birth families are enabled to contribute to the maintenance of their

The current team structure means that by the time a child is in an adoption placement he/she will have had at least three social workers. Managers are seeking to devise strategies to ameliorate the worst effects of this, in terms of preserving critical background information, and reported that the transfer of a case would be delayed if this was likely to be to the detriment of a child.

p.30

Birth parents and birth families are enabled to contribute to the maintenance of their

Examples of later in life letters written by birth parents and/or social workers were seen on files. Recording on one file showed that there had been considerable negotiation with birth parents over the content of one later in life letter.

p.30

Birth parents and birth families are enabled to contribute to the maintenance of their

A system for letterbox contact between adopted children and birth family members operates in the authority. In November 2003 one member of the Adoption and Permanence Team had oversight of the service. Inspectors found no evidence to suggest that it was not operating adequately but staff did acknowledge that constraints on time had not allowed for any development of the service. In future the co-ordination of the letterbox service will be the responsibility of the person appointed to the post of adoption support worker.

p.30

includes providing information about local and national support groups and services

and helping birth parents to fulfil agreed plans for contact. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 This is an area of work that warrants development. The Adoption Support Strategy that has been produced in response to the requirements of new legislation refers to the possibility of developing services to birth parents in conjunction with the Consortium.

p.30

includes providing information about local and national support groups and services

At the time of the inspection there was a dearth of written information for birth parents about support services. London Borough of Sutton Page 29

p.30

The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• Each adoption agency has an adoption panel which is organised efficiently

p.31

children suitable for adoption, the suitability of prospective adopters and

the matching of children and approved adopters.

p.31

children suitable for adoption, the suitability of prospective adopters and

• The adoption agency’s decisions are made to promote and safeguard the welfare of children.

p.31

Adoption panels have clear written policies and procedures about the handling of

their functions and ensure that they are implemented. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There are clear written policies and procedures relating to the handling and implementation of panel functions. Inspectors endorse the intention of the Service Manager to update these in response to new legislation and some internal changes.

p.31

Adoption panels have clear written policies and procedures about the handling of

A ‘Panel Briefing’ session is convened two weeks in advance of each meeting of the Adoption and Permanence Panel. On these occasions the panel chair and the panel adviser, who is the manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team, review the papers for the forthcoming panel in conjunction with the presenting social workers. In this context omissions or errors can be identified and wider issues addressed in time for appropriate action to be taken before the actual panel meeting.

p.31

Adoption panels have clear written policies and procedures about the handling of

The outgoing panel chair reported that the content of Forms E is variable, particularly in relation to the assessment and analysis of attachment issues. This reflects poorly on field social work line management.

p.31

Adoption panels have clear written policies and procedures about the handling of

An inspector attended the panel briefing and concluded that it is a quality assurance forum that affords an excellent opportunity for expectations to be clarified and one that in turn engenders confidence in presenting social workers and generates panel debate that focuses upon substantive issues rather than the minutiae of paperwork. It is an example of excellent practice that has wide ranging benefits.

p.31

Adoption panels have clear written policies and procedures about the handling of

For the last two years prospective adopters have been given the opportunity to attend the adoption panel. It was reported that most do attend. In an attempt to put them at their ease the chair of the panel goes out to speak to them before they come in to the panel meeting room. In discussion and in questionnaires, those adopters who had attended panel indicated that it had been a positive experience that was sensitively handled. With effect from December 2003 and on a trial basis, the panel was to extend invitations to adopters from other agencies to attend panel where matches with Sutton children were being considered. London Borough of Sutton Page 30 Foster carers, and in some instances young children for whom best interest recommendations are being considered, come to panel. Panel members who were asked felt that this practice did assist their deliberations. London Borough of Sutton Page 31

p.31

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

for the overseas country. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 An inspector observed the adoption panel held on 6 th November 2003.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

The panel was properly constituted. Included amongst the membership of the Sutton panel, at that time, were an adopted adult, an adoptive parent and an educational psychologist. At that time there was an appropriate gender mix but no panel members were from black ethnic minorities.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

The panel on 6 th November 2003 was conducted with efficiency and the information provided to the panel was considered in detail before recommendations were made. It was apparent that panel members had been diligent in reading the papers. They appeared to be well informed, the quality of discussion was high and their deliberations were thoughtful and child focussed. The contribution of the medical adviser was wide ranging and reflected his extensive and very relevant experience. He, like the elected member, sits on the Corporate Parents Forum. The elected member holds positions on a number of key committees within the Council and appears to operate as a very effective conduit between the adoption panel and other forums and key personnel that represent the interests of children in the borough.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

The Sutton panel has an independent chair. For ten years prior to December 2003 the provision of a chair was based on an agreement with Coram. The person who had occupied the post was appropriately experienced and praised by staff for her competence and diligence and capacity to engender a ‘welcoming’ atmosphere.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

The arrangement with Coram will cease in January 2004 when a new independent chair will take up post. The new chair was observing panel on 6 th November 2003. New panel members observe panel and are provided with various documentation and literature including the BAAF publication; ‘Effective Panels’.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

Annual joint training with adoption service staff is facilitated by outside trainers and includes the staff and panel members of Consortium partners. Most recently it had featured the requirements of new legislation and previously had considered the outcome of the Brighton and Hove Part 8 Enquiry and issues around applicants attending panel.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

It is recommended that the induction of new social workers and reviewing officers include observation of a panel.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

Personnel files must be established for all panel members.

p.33

from overseas and seeks advice, when necessary, on the laws and eligibility criteria

Is the panel a joint panel with other local authorities? NO

p.33

to avoid delays in the consideration of prospective adopters and matching children

and adopters. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The adoption panel meets once a month.

p.34

to avoid delays in the consideration of prospective adopters and matching children

The administrative procedures that support the work of the panel are efficient and were reported to have improved considerably. Reports and associated paperwork are forwarded to panel members at least one week ahead of the meeting.

p.34

to avoid delays in the consideration of prospective adopters and matching children

Minutes summarise the content of panel discussion and include clear recommendations and a separate statement of the reasons for reaching the conclusions.

p.34

to avoid delays in the consideration of prospective adopters and matching children

The Any Other Business slot on the panel agenda is used to inform panel of events arising from their recommendations. This would include information about placements that have disrupted.

p.34

recommendation of the adoption panel and promotes and safeguards the welfare of

the child. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The panel adviser meets with the agency decision maker as soon as possible after panel and makes minutes and panel papers available. In offering a verbal synopsis of the cases presented to panel, she provides information that may not appear in the minutes.

p.34

recommendation of the adoption panel and promotes and safeguards the welfare of

Decisions are communicated to relevant parties in writing. Examples of such letters to adopters were seen on file. London Borough of Sutton Page 33

p.34

The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The adoption agency is provided and managed by those with the appropriate

p.35

The people involved in carrying on and managing the adoption agency:

• possess the necessary knowledge and experience of child care and

p.35

adoption law and practice and

• have management skills and financial expertise to manage the work

p.35

efficiently and effectively and

• ensure that it is run on a sound financial basis and in a professional manner. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Those involved in managing the adoption service are suitably qualified and experienced.

p.35

efficiently and effectively and

The service manager for Adoption and Fostering has a CQSW and has occupied the post since 2001. The manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team has a CQSW and practice teaching award and was appointed to that post in 2002. Both had extensive relevant experience prior to taking up their current posts.

p.35

efficiently and effectively and

The service manager is to commence an Executive Diploma in Management Studies at Kingston University in March 2004. This is equivalent to NVQ level 5 and it is anticipated that it will be completed by September 2005.

p.35

efficiently and effectively and

Inspectors concluded that the adoption service is well managed, both strategically and operationally. It is a service that has undergone radical change in the last two years. The rapid developments have primarily taken place under the leadership of the current managers who have negotiated the necessary resources to achieve an adequate staffing establishment and to be responsive to the demands of new legislation.

p.35

efficiently and effectively and

The two managers have job descriptions that set out their duties, responsibilities and level of delegation.

p.35

voluntary organisation or business concerned with safeguarding and promoting the

welfare of children. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The Service Manager for Fostering and Adoption has a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau. Senior staff in the department are reminded that CRB checks on staff who manage the adoption service must be renewed every three years and that telephone enquiries must be made to verify the written references of those appointed to such posts. London Borough of Sutton Page 35

p.36

The intended outcomes for the following set of standards are:

• The adoption agency is organised and managed efficiently, delivering a good quality service and avoiding confusion and conflicts of role.

p.37

Standard 16 (16.1 – 16.7)

The adoption agency is managed effectively and efficiently. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 On the basis of evidence gathered from a variety of sources, inspectors concluded that the adoption service is managed effectively and efficiently and that it operates in accordance with the Statement of Purpose.

p.37

Standard 16 (16.1 – 16.7)

There are clear arrangements in place to identify the person in charge and it was reported that the two managers stagger periods of leave in order to ensure that one or other is available to staff.

p.37

Standard 16 (16.1 – 16.7)

The Adoption and Permanence Team is small and lines of communication between the manager and social workers in the team were reported to be effective.

p.37

Standard 16 (16.1 – 16.7)

Staff are required to declare any conflict of interest.

p.37

Standard 16 (16.1 – 16.7)

Arrangements are in place for making use of the services provided by the Adoption Register for England and Wales and these are described in the information pack that is sent to prospective adopters.

p.37

There are clear written procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

adoption agency and ensuring quality performance. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 There are clear written procedures for monitoring, controlling and reporting on the activities of the adoption service and ensuring quality performance. They are embraced in a number of documents and range from obtaining feedback from applicants about preparation groups and attendance at panel, through to the operation of the permanency planning spreadsheet, the submission of annual reports to the executive side of the Council, quarterly summaries of workflow and the close analysis of recruitment strategies.

p.38

There are clear written procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

A further and significant element of monitoring has been introduced through a Local Public Service Agreement with the Department of Health which proposes that the number of adoptions from local authority care reach 39 in the three years from 1 st April 2002. It is acknowledged that this is challenging target based on a high performance and unrepresentative year ending in March 2002.

p.38

There are clear written procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

The only service for which the agency makes a charge is that surrounding the assessment and support of inter-country adopters. Clear information about the charges is made available to applicants. Sutton adheres to the BAAF inter-agency payment system.

p.38

There are clear written procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

Individual children with specific needs attract adoption allowances and adopters matched with children for whom an allowance may be payable are provided with written information. As and when the parameters of new arrangements and eligibility are finalised these should be published and made available as appropriate.

p.38

There are clear written procedures for monitoring and controlling the activities of the

There are clear budget statements of payments made to adopters.

p.38

Quarterly?

Less than Quarterly? YES London Borough of Sutton Page 37

p.38

The adoption agency has access to specialist advisers and services appropriate to its

needs. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The adoption service has access to a medical adviser who is a Developmental Paediatrician, and the Principal Physician for Child Health in Sutton. He is the designated doctor for Looked After Children and a member of the Corporate Parents Forum. The medical adviser sits on the adoption panel, sees those children whose cases are brought to panel, provides a summary of child’s health and well-being to adopters and other interested parties, and comments on the health of prospective adopters.

p.39

The adoption agency has access to specialist advisers and services appropriate to its

A solicitor from the Council attends each adoption panel and the manager of the Adoption and Permanence Team acts as adviser to the panel.

p.39

The adoption agency has access to specialist advisers and services appropriate to its

A clinical psychologist offers support to the adoption and fostering teams that may take the form of assessments of the emotional health of children, direct therapeutic work with young people, work with adopters and a training input for substitute carers.

p.39

The adoption agency has access to specialist advisers and services appropriate to its

Other specialist advice is accessed on a case by case basis and referrals may be made to the Post Adoption Centre.

p.39

The adoption agency has access to specialist advisers and services appropriate to its

At the time of the inspection there was no written protocol that specifically governed the role of specialist advisers. This should be developed and distributed to relevant personnel. Copies should be placed on the personnel files of panel members. London Borough of Sutton Page 38

p.39

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• The people who work in the adoption agency are suitable to work with children

p.40

Anyone working in or for the adoption agency are suitable to work with children and

young people and to safeguard and promote their welfare. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Inspectors from the Social Services Inspectorate examined a sample of staff recruitment records and concluded that recruitment and selection procedures follow good practice in safeguarding children and young people.

p.40

Anyone working in or for the adoption agency are suitable to work with children and

All of the social work staff of the Adoption and Permanence Team have a DipSW or equivalent professional social work qualification. They have a sound understanding of adoption and appropriate knowledge and skills drawn from employment in a variety of statutory services and voluntary agencies.

p.40

Anyone working in or for the adoption agency are suitable to work with children and

Staff of the adoption service have recently assumed responsibility for counselling under section 51 of the Adoption Act 1976. Whilst this is considered to be an appropriate transfer of responsibility it should be accompanied by the provision of specialist training for staff.

p.40

equivalent?

What % of the adoption service’s social workers have a PQ award? 50 % London Borough of Sutton Page 39

p.40

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 See also Standard 14 and 16.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

A workload management scheme operates within the team.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

There are structures and systems in place to ensure that assessments and approvals of prospective adopters are managed and implemented effectively and completed within the timescales prescribed by National Adoption Standards.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

Members of the Adoption and Permanence Team meet once every two weeks and peer support appears to be good.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

Staff confirmed that they receive good quality supervision on a regular basis and stated that they are able to access external training. They do not routinely cascade the content of external training to colleagues.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

There is access to a range of advice needed to provide a full service for children and young people and adopters seen by one inspector cited an example of being assisted through the intervention of an educational psychologist. Files seen contained other examples of specialist interventions and support.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

The quality of administrative support to the team was reported by social work staff to be ‘excellent’.

p.41

Staff are organised and managed in a way which delivers an efficient and effective

All staff of the adoption service have access to a PC and to email. London Borough of Sutton Page 40

p.41

the needs of the adoption agency and they are appropriately supported and assisted

in providing a service. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The staff team employed at the time of the inspection had appropriate qualifications and skills. They demonstrated commitment and enthusiasm and it was evident to inspectors that they are motivated to achieve high standards in adoption practice.

p.42

the needs of the adoption agency and they are appropriately supported and assisted

The consensus amongst staff was that the staffing establishment is adequate and that when the newly created posts in adoption support and kinship care are filled it will be possible to provide a full adoption service.

p.42

The adoption agency is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment

practices and good support for its staff. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Those staff to whom inspectors spoke were positive about the nature of support which they were offered and did not identify any significant shortcomings in their working conditions.

p.42

The adoption agency is a fair and competent employer, with sound employment

A whistle blowing policy is in place. London Borough of Sutton Page 41

p.42

There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

staff up-to-date with professional and legal developments. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The authority has a broad general in-house induction and ongoing training programme.

p.43

There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

Staff confirmed that their performance had been formally appraised but identified some shortfalls in the process, notably the absence of a rigorous review of their training/professional development needs.

p.43

There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

Nevertheless certain specialist training needs have been met and the Consortium has provided additional training opportunities.

p.43

There is a good quality training programme to enhance individual skills and to keep

It was acknowledged that the Post Qualifying Award has brought dividends for those undertaking it but also for other members of the team. There may be scope to expand the formal opportunities for staff to share the wealth of experience that exists within the team. London Borough of Sutton Page 42

p.43

The intended outcome for the following set of standards is:

• All appropriate records are maintained securely, kept and are accessible when required.

p.44

maintained for each child, prospective and approved adopter with whom the agency

has worked. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 The authority has written policies on confidentiality, on recording and on file retention and storage.

p.44

maintained for each child, prospective and approved adopter with whom the agency

Those case records that were seen at the inspection were well presented and organised in a way that made them easy to access. They were full, up-to-date and almost always typed.

p.44

maintained for each child, prospective and approved adopter with whom the agency

Confidentiality agreements are signed by staff and panel members.

p.44

maintained for each child, prospective and approved adopter with whom the agency

Records of supervision decisions appeared on the files of both children and adopters. It is recommended that the form of the record on adopters files replicate that on children’s files.

p.44

way, to other adoption agencies and local authorities with whom it is working to effect

the placement of a child. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 The authority has a policy on access to user records. The version in existence in November 2003 took in to account the requirements of the Data Protection Act 1998 but not the requirements of the Human Rights Act 1998.

p.44

way, to other adoption agencies and local authorities with whom it is working to effect

Relevant information is provided from case files to adoption agencies and local authorities in order to facilitate placements. However, written confidentiality agreements are not routinely obtained from those persons, other than the child or adopter, to whom information is being disclosed. In addition to routinely obtaining a written undertaking that information will be kept confidential a written record of access provided or disclosure should be kept. London Borough of Sutton Page 43

p.44

confidentiality and contents of files, including secure storage and access to case files

in line with regulations. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Those adopter’s files that were seen held essential information and contained evidence that relevant enquiries, including health, employment and CRB checks, had been undertaken.

p.45

confidentiality and contents of files, including secure storage and access to case files

Separate records are kept for staff and in relation to complaints and allegations.

p.45

confidentiality and contents of files, including secure storage and access to case files

The adoption service should notify the National Care Standards Commission or it’s successor of the instigation and outcome of any child protection investigations involving children placed for adoption.

p.45

confidentiality and contents of files, including secure storage and access to case files

The authority has a file audit policy and evidence of audits and of actions arising from them was seen.

p.45

confidentiality and contents of files, including secure storage and access to case files

Confidential records are stored securely and an archivist has been appointed to ensure that practice is in line with the requirements of legislation.

p.45

Up-to-date, comprehensive personnel files are maintained for each member of staff

and member of the adoption panel. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 2 Up-to-date, comprehensive personnel files are maintained for each member of staff and records are kept of qualifications, status and CRB checks, enquiries and references that have been obtained and their outcomes, experience of working in a child care setting, training undertaken, complaints made against a member of staff and any disciplinary action.

p.45

Up-to-date, comprehensive personnel files are maintained for each member of staff

CRB checks will be renewed every three years

p.45

Up-to-date, comprehensive personnel files are maintained for each member of staff

At the time of the inspection personnel files were not held on all adoption panel members. London Borough of Sutton Page 44

p.45

The intended outcome for the following standard is:

• The premises used by the adoption agency are suitable for the purpose.

p.46

Standard 29 (29.1 – 29.5)

Premises used by the adoption agency are appropriate for the purpose. Key Findings and Evidence Standard met? 3 Adoption and Permanence Team workers occupy adequate office accommodation adjacent to that occupied by administrative staff and the Fostering Team. The building is accessible to the public and is appropriately insured.

p.46

Standard 29 (29.1 – 29.5)

Staff are supported by efficient and robust administrative systems. All workers have PC’s and access to relevant IT systems. Appropriate measures are in place to safeguard IT systems and security measures operate within the building. London Borough of Sutton Page 45

p.46

D.1 Local authority manager’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

accuracy of the report for the above inspection.

p.48

D.1 Local authority manager’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

We would welcome comments on the content of this report relating to the Inspection conducted on 17 November 2003 and any factual inaccuracies:

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D.1 Local authority manager’s comments/confirmation relating to the content and

Please limit your comments to one side of A4 if possible London Borough of Sutton Page 47

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to the provider’s comments:

Amendments to the report were necessary YES

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to the provider’s comments:

Comments were received from the provider YES

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to the provider’s comments:

Provider comments/factual amendments were incorporated into the final inspection report YES

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Action taken by the NCSC in response to the provider’s comments:

YES Provider comments are available on file at the Area Office but have not been incorporated into the final inspection report. The inspector believes the report to be factually accurate

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Note:

In instances where there is a major difference of view between the Inspector and the local authority adoption manager, both views will be made available on request to the Area Office.

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to be addressed and stating a clear timescale for completion. This will be

kept on file and made available on request.

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report:

Action plan was received at the point of publication YES

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report:

Action plan covers all the statutory requirements in a timely fashion YES

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report:

Action plan did not cover all the statutory requirements and required further discussion NO

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report:

Provider has declined to provide an action plan NO

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Public reports

It should be noted that all NCSC inspection reports are public documents. London Borough of Sutton Page 48

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Date

Note: In instance where there is a profound difference of view between the Inspector and the Registered Provider both views will be reported. Please attach any extra pages, as applicable.

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