Vulnerable child talks are being postponed

“We are very clear that this delay is down to the inability of some staff members to contribute to that. NHS Tayside is aware they should have a consultant nurse in attendance.”

The six-month report for education and children’s services states this will continue to be monitored with the Child Protection Committee Practice Improvement Group, and addressed with individual agencies.

Ms Pepper said: “We monitor the length of that delay very closely.

“The information that we would have around the question of the support that those families we have would insure that children were keeping safe. It’s a concern for any delay relating to these cases.

“It’s a matter closely monitored and has been referred to the Child Protection Committee to ensure that remedial action is taken to address performance.”

A spokesperson for NHS Tayside said, “Case conferences, whether initial or review meetings, are important multi-agency child centred meetings which Tayside’s Health Visiting service workforce, and other NHS Tayside staff, give high priority to within their workload.

“There can be a number of NHS practitioners invited to case conference meetings and representatives from NHS services may attend or may submit a report, depending on individual circumstances.

“NHS Tayside is working with colleagues in Perth and Kinross Council to more fully understand the potential impact of case conference attendance by NHS staff on the four cases highlighted and undertake any relevant follow-up actions and contribute to any possible improvements.”

An ICPCC is arranged when there are child protection concerns and to determine whether there is a likelihood of significant harm through abuse or neglect.