25th October 2023 (1000-1200)

‘The National Referral Mechanism – Devolving child decision making pilot programme’

Our next Forum will focus on the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) & the introduction of devolving child decision-making panels.

“The Pilot Programme forms part of a wider programme of activity to identify sustainable longer-term options for the NRM. The purpose of the Pilot Programme is to test whether determining if a child is a victim of modern slavery within existing safeguarding structures is a more appropriate model for making modern slavery decisions for children. This approach will enable decisions about whether a child is a victim of modern slavery to be made by those involved in their care and ensure the decisions made are closely aligned with the provision of local, needs-based support and any law enforcement response”. Helpful link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/piloting-devolving-decision-making-for-child-victims-of-modern-slavery/devolving-child-decision-making-pilot-programme-general-guidance-accessible-version

The aim of the forum is to provide practitioners with an opportunity to discuss/consider;

1. The impact of significant time delays in reaching Conclusive Grounds Decisions for children.

2. The positive changes/impact of the NRM devolving child decision-making panels.

3. The challenges regarding understanding & making NRM referrals.

4. The benefits of the NRM & how it serves to interrupt & disrupt the exploitation of children.

The forum is independently Chaired by Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Grant (Modern Slavery and Child Exploitation (MSCE) Teams, Central Specialist Crime, Metropolitan Police). Andy brings a wealth of knowledge & experience in Public Protection & the practicalities surrounding disrupting & interrupting exploitation.

Our visiting speakers will provide you with an interesting and thought-provoking session. We are pleased to announce that they are;

· Kerry Sabec NRM Co-Ordinator Family & Adolescent Support Team (Children & Families, Warwickshire County Council)

· James Biggs National Referral Mechanism Co-Ordinator (Wiltshire & Swindon, Wiltshire Council)

In addition, Richard James ICTG Service Devolved NRM Lead (Barnardo’s National Counter Trafficking Centre) will be joining us for the discussion.

Book your free place HERE