Children in need of help and protection (health and wellbeing needs in South Tyneside)

Children and Families Social Care (CFSC) has adopted a child-centred approach to practice, and all contacts, assessment and interventions include engagement with the child or young person. Children and young people are asked their views and preferences; this is reflected in individual assessments, plans and practical support and intervention. CFSC uses a range of evidence based tools and techniques to engage children, including participative and visual play;

At the time of publication, we have more to do in understanding and responding to, the experience of children and families who are engaged in safeguarding and protection services.

NYAS

The National Youth Advocacy Service is commissioned by the authority to provide independent advocacy. The NYA works as part of a regional framework to ensure children and young people:

• have a say in decisions made about their lives;
• are able to share their concerns about their circumstances;
• are listened to and heard;
• are treated fairly in the course of their contact with the Council.

Engagement and Participation Service

The Participation and Engagement service works to ensure that children and young people are involved in all decisions affecting their choices and lives. South Tyneside's Engagement Strategy builds capability across the services, so that we can hear and respond to the voices and views of children and their families.