The panels were set up to analyse Common Assessment Framework reports of vulnerable young people and recommend additional support in areas such as education and mental health.
However, the review of the trust's prevention work by researchers at University College London found that the single co-ordinator appointed to support the panels was struggling to meet demand.
This led to the panels regularly missing the two-week target of dealing with cases, sometimes by as much as three weeks.
Since receiving the report, the trust has recruited two additional co-ordinators and is on the lookout for another.
Lead researcher Dr Roger Booker said: "The panels were getting overstretched and there were some significant delays creeping in. The trust should be commended for acting on this finding and getting in the extra support that is needed."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
