Moray Integration Joint Board today (Thursday 25 September) welcomed the positive progress made over the past year in improving experiences and outcomes for children, young people, and families in Moray.
The report on the second year of delivery of the Children’s Services Plan 2023–2026 highlighted the difference being made by community planning partners in Moray – including Health & Social Care Moray, Moray Council, NHS Grampian, and Third Sector organisations – working together and with local communities to safeguard, support and promote child and family wellbeing.
Key highlights from the 2024–25 report include:
- Improved approaches to ensuring children’s voices are central to decision making.
- Nearly £100,000 gained for families through income maximisation services.
- The launch of a Moray-wide parent-focused support service to help parents/carers to understand and support their children’s mental health.
- Continued strong performance within the NHS Grampian Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), with most children beginning support within the 18-week standard and initially seen within 4-6 weeks.
- Significant increase in neurodiversity assessments completed, and targeted support provided through the Early Bird family programme.
- Updated child protection procedures and training. Full implementation of the Scottish Child Interview Model, and funding secured to further develop the Bairns’ Hoose approach in Moray.
- Introduction of the adapted curriculum within Education Services to better meet the needs of children with additional support requirements.
- Expansion of family support services, with 93% of pregnant women invited to join the universal Peep pathway. Moray Advocacy Service supported 259 children and 175 parents/carers over the year.
- A 57% reduction in school exclusions for looked-after children, and more siblings supported to remain together in care.
- 650 members of the children services workforce accessed additional training.
The reporting year also brought significant challenges, similar to those experienced across Scotland. These included increased incidents of violence and aggression in schools and communities, pressures from the cost-of-living crisis, and concerns from parents and children around neurodiversity diagnosis, support, and educational attainment.
Councillor Bridget Mustard, Chair of Moray Integration Joint Board, said: “This is an excellent report covering a huge amount and range of work, and shows that despite the challenges facing families and services, real progress is being made. The focus on children’s voices, family support, and tackling inequalities reflects our commitment to ensuring every child in Moray has the best possible start in life.”
The Board approved the Year 2 Annual Report of the Children’s Services Plan 2023–2026, which brings together key statutory responsibilities including the Child Poverty Plan, Corporate Parenting Plan, Children’s Rights Plan, and Child Protection Improvement Plan. It also reflects Moray’s commitment to delivering The Promise for care-experienced children and young people.
Work will now begin to shape the next Children’s Services Plan for the next three years.
