Protection for vulnerable kids adapted during crisis

Perth and Kinross Council says it has adapted how it provides its services to protect vulnerable children during the coronavirus outbreak.

The local authority says it recognises the pandemic“may put more pressure on families”.

Loss of income as a result of the outbreak, restrictions on being able to go outdoors and other changes to routines can all lead to high levels of stress and can in turn place a greater strain on many families.

The council has set up a multidisciplinary group to ensure support continues to operate effectively. The Child Protection Committee continues to meet regularly.

Work to protect children includes continuing face-face-meetings and home visits with those most at risk, providing vulnerable children with a range of childcare options and working with third sector organisations to provide support.

As well as providing childcare for vulnerable children at children’s activity centres, via partner providers and childminders, schools and children’s services have been issued with new guidance about how best to support vulnerable children in the current circumstances.

The council has also provided direct payments for families who would ordinarily receive free school meals and weekly food parcels for families most in need.

It has also been supporting families who don’t have access to IT equipment, broadband or sufficient data to support learning at home.

Sheena Devlin, executive director of education and children’s services, explained that everyone is working together during the pandemic.

“We are keenly aware that COVID-19 and the lockdown is making life more difficult for families everywhere and some children may be at even greater risk as a result of these pressures,”she said.

“Helping and supporting them is always our priority.

“Social workers, education staff, health visitors, police and other specialists are all working together to protect our young people, despite the current circumstances.”