The functions of a LSCB are set out in Section 14 and 14A of the Children Act 2004 and in the Local Safeguarding Children Regulations 2006. The core objectives set out by the legislation and regulations are co-ordination of the activities of member agencies in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and monitoring the effectiveness of that activity so that children have optimum life chances and enter adulthood successfully.
The LSCB is responsible for co-ordinating the activities of member agencies in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in 3 broad areas:
- Activity affecting all children which aims to identify and prevent maltreatment, or impairment of health or development and ensure children grow up in circumstances consistent with safe and effective care e.g. promoting understanding of safeguarding and monitoring the effectiveness of organisations activities
- Proactive work aimed at particular groups e.g. children who are potentially more vulnerable than the general child population such as young people in custody
- Work to protect children who are suffering, or are likely to suffer significant harm e.g. undertaking Sec 47 enquiries
The LSCB is not accountable for the operational work of its constituent members
