A Care Inspectorate report on serious incident reviews in justice social work has highlighted continuing improvement. 

Inspectors noted that the revised guidance issued in 2022 has been well received. There was commitment from the majority of local authorities to use the new templates to structure their review and analysis of serious incidents.  

Reflective learning reviews were being used appropriately. Analysis was also being used appropriately by local authority justice social work services to identify areas for improvement and assign relevant, targeted actions.   

The number of local authorities recognising the need for a serious incident review, and notifying the Care Inspectorate, has remained consistent with previous years.  

However, there remain local authorities who have submitted no - or consistently few - notifications. It remains a priority that all services are proactive in assuring themselves that staff are aware of the guidance and that submissions are proportionate to events.  

The Care Inspectorate will continue to work with services to further strengthen the understanding of, and the importance of adherence to, the serious incident review process. This will include seeking assurance from respective services that serious incidents are being appropriately identified and reported.     

Serious incident reporting has also highlighted the prevalence of domestically aggravated offences in patterns of re-offending. However, there is a need for improved categorisation at notification stage, and local authority reviewers should pay particular attention to the relevant section of the notification template.   

The Care Inspectorate will also continue to review and refine recording processes to capture the incidence of domestically aggravated offences.   

Jackie Irvine, Chief Executive of the Care Inspectorate, said: “Developments in the guidance surrounding serious incident reviews and the introduction of new templates have been well received and used by local authorities.  The content of notifications and case reviews are more consistent, with greater attention being paid to the quality of risk assessment and case management.  

“The new reflective learning review process has also proven useful in supporting local authorities to consider issues in greater detail.  This is particularly important when a need to strengthen elements of practice or partnership working is identified.  

“Many local authorities submit serious incident reviews of a consistently high standard.  We appreciate the time and effort this involves and recognise the strength of commitment to continuous improvement and reflective learning.” 

The full report can be read here. 

NOTES TO EDITORS