General Guidance
A Serious Case Review should always be conducted when a child dies (including as a suicide) and abuse or neglect is known or suspected to be a factor. In addition a Serious Case Review should be considered when: a child sustains a potentially life threatening injury; or, serious and permanent impairment of health and development; or, has been subject to serious sexual abuse; and the case gives rise to concerns about inter-agency working to protect children. The Serious Case Review will be undertaken by the Serious Case Review Panel of the Telford & Wrekin Safeguarding Children Board following the guidelines contained in Chapter 8 of “Working Together to Safeguard Children".
The guidelines are clear in that: each agency should conduct its own Internal Management Review; and, there should be an overview report by the LSCB.
Agencies are to respond 'quickly and positively' to ensure that services are not disrupted. The Chair of the sub-group will ensure, in consultation with the Chair of the Board, that the 'media is addressed in a positive manner'. Each Agency must develop its own policy for a media response in the event of a major child protection matter that leads to a Serious Case Review.
In the event of a child death, or any other significant Child Protection issue, the Police or hospital services must inform the Helpdesk immediately Helpdesk (Phone 01952 385700) or the Emergency Duty Team if out of office hours (01952 676500).
See also the section on " Child Deaths" in these procedures
Any Agency or professional may refer a case to the LSCB if they believe that there are important lessons for inter agency working to be learned. A referral should be made to the Chair of the Serious Case Review Panel, who will consult with the Chair of the Board as to whether a Case Review should take place.