Statement by Cllr Tessa Hodgson, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding

'Pembrokeshire County Council would first like to convey their sincerest condolences to the family of Lola James and to all those who have been affected by her murder, over 4 years ago. 

'This review process, that we have fully and openly engaged with along with our multi-agency partners with whom we share safeguarding responsibilities, has been an opportunity for the local authority to reflect on its practice and to learn from the observations contained in the independent report.

'We would like to recognise the significant commitment and input of those who have taken part in the review process, and who have been involved with the family over the last 4 years.

'The local authority takes extremely seriously its duties within the safeguarding arena, and places the protection and support of the most vulnerable in society as its key priority.

'Whilst we would always strive to demonstrate good practice, there is always room for improvement and the opportunities that this review has presented us with, will allow us to improve how we work with vulnerable children and young people in the future.

'Ahead of the publication of the report today, we had developed an action plan to deal with the issues the review has raised for us, and we have made considerable progress against that plan already.

'In addition, we have established a social care improvement board, which includes amongst its membership locally elected politicians, senior officers and an external independent expert. This board will oversee delivery against the actions within that plan, with progress also being reported into local authority scrutiny committees and cabinet meetings.

‘We hope also that the report, will contribute to wider ongoing learning and improvement in relation to a number of key safeguarding issues across all agencies with safeguarding responsibilities in the West Wales region and beyond. It is imperative that we take all opportunities to improve our services, and ensure that children and families receive the best quality of support available.

'Once again, Pembrokeshire County Council would like to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and all of those who knew Lola.’

The report can be seen at: https://cysur.wales/child-practice-reviews/cysur-1-2021-concise-child-practice-review/