1. Contextual Safeguarding in Merton
Melissa Ireland
Contextual Engagement Manager

2. The Library Project (pre-funding)
Background:
Different reports were received from participation, CSE workers and ASB team in relation to young people using the library space
Other contexts impacting on referrals included football provider being shutdown due to knife related incident, winter approaching (YP wanting somewhere warm), free WIFI, Art space set up in library asking for YP to participate
Initial single agency responses were developed based on referrals being received

3. The Shift to Contextual Thinking
CSE Operational Manager identified the library as location of concern based on CSE reports and peer group connections.
CSE manager called for a multi-agency meeting including Library Manager, Community Police, ASB, Participation, local voluntary provider, Troubled Families team staff and commissioned services
Agreed plan of work for Pop-Up Youth Club, using a worker from each service to support running
This project was based on the same staffing capacity as usual, no additional funding or support, therefore creative thinking around how to adjust and use services in the area

4. Outcomes 100% reduction in ASB
Drug dealing that did continue were adults and fed back to ASB and police
Reduction of inappropriate behaviours in the library
Intelligence around activity and links. YP were supported in knowing what was available to them in the community
Library staff became more informed and confident at engaging YP and therefore created a safe space
Transition back to existing programs running in the area
Practice example leading to successful bid for CS scale-up project and example for EIYF fund

5. The Impact of Funding
Ability to recruit team with specific focus on understanding contextual issues and impact on young people
Ability of early identification of young people, hot spots or trending concerns in schools or neighbourhood
Capacity to undertake Peer-group mapping and safety mapping
Design out crime reports have been completed on neighbourhood/location of concerns
Developing forms and assessments for social care recording systems
Working with schools around school assessments and reviews
Ability to embed Contextual Safeguarding approach and thinking across the Child Protection System and partner agencies

6. New Projects Location Assessment Library Project 2.0
Identification of location of concern in relation to SYV, gang activity, drug dealing and peer grooming
Pop-up Youth Club over summer
Residents sessions to discuss issues affecting young people in their local area
Design out crime report completed regarding physical safety
Increased partnership working and understanding of impact on young people
Context conference
Library Project 2.0
Identification of issues affecting young people and the community in the library
Fracture between community and young people
Development of project to increase guardianship capacity in the area, through the voice of the young person
Reduction in issues between young people and residents in the area
Link in with local comm. centre, youth centre and secondary school

7. Impact on Young People Effective safety mapping for young people
Ability to map peer associations to develop more effective safety planning
Greater understanding of impact of peer network and locations of concerned
Increase feelings of safety and effective response

8. Implications to be mindful of
Resources
Long-term sustainability
Partnership working
The impact of short-term funding arrangements