To receive the six-monthly update on exploitation and children missing.

The Team Manager – Exploitation – Katie Buckley outlined the submitted report which provided an update on exploitation and children missing and responded to questions.  The key points included:

·                     A reduction in missing episodes in 2025, with notable improvements except in February.  Although this may not tell the whole picture as not all children were being reported missing.

·                     Hidden missing children remain a concern, this was often linked to parental reluctance to report.

·                     The Philomena Protocol was being used to improve police responses.

·                     Multi-agency communication was strong, with escalation processes in place.

Members asked questions in relation to the following:

·                     What percentage of children go missing multiple times?

·                     Were children placed in Torbay from other areas going missing because they want to return home?

·                     What were children doing when they go missing?

·                     What was the new Police initiative for early intervention?

·                     Was the Philomena Protocol shared with others?

·                     How many missing children were also at risk of exploitation? (A written response would be provided.)

·                     Who conducts return home interviews for children placed in Torbay?

·                     Do we collect data on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and excluded children who go missing?

·                     What proactive work was being done in primary schools?

The following responses were provided:

·                     In May 2025, there were 46 missing episodes involving 29 children.  Internal reviews were triggered when a child goes missing more than three times in three months.

·                     Some children attempt to travel long distances, including to airports to return to their home when placed out of area.  Reciprocal conversations with placing authorities were held to ensure appropriate support was in place.

·                     When children go missing their activities vary from walking to clear their head, seeking substances, climbing buildings, or avoiding home due to mental health or exploitation etc.

·                     A child-centred Policing Team had been established to co-ordinate with safeguarding services and provide one-to-one support for vulnerable children.

·                     The Philomena Protocol was shared with others and Members were encouraged to raise the profile of this – more information could be found at https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/notices/pp/philomena-protocol/.  It was best practice to complete it with carers and share it with the Police to aid in locating missing children.

·                     The placing authority was responsible for return to home interviews, but oversight was maintained to ensure interviews were conducted and information shared.

·                     Data was collected on SEND and excluded children who go missing.  55% of the most vulnerable children have Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).  Work was ongoing with schools and youth centres.

·                     Torbay Safeguarding Children Partnership (TSCP) training was available to all professionals including Primary Schools.  Capacity had increased, and targeted work was being done with Years 5 and 6.

Resolved (unanimously):

1.         that the Children and Young People’s Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Board note the contents of the submitted report on exploitation and children missing and endorse the proposed next steps; and

2.         that the future report includes a case study to show the difference that has been made to children and their families and provides an update on the move of the Exploitation Team within the communities.