Domestic abuse is seen as a "priority for everyone" in Norfolk, according to inspectors

A joint targeted area inspection (JTAI) of Norfolk has praised the "strong and collaborative" partnership arrangements in Norfolk that are helping ensure that most unborn and young children who are victims of domestic abuse are getting the support they need.

An inspection team, from Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission, His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, and His Majesty's Inspectorate of Probation, visited the county in December to look at the multi-agency response to unborn children and children aged 0 to 7 who are victims of domestic abuse. 

JTAIs look for strengths, areas for improvement and areas for priority action. No priority actions were identified in Norfolk. 

Inspectors said: "Domestic abuse is seen as a 'priority for everyone' in Norfolk," praising the "synergy" between partners and the strong governance arrangements. They highlighted co-production with children and young people, and the early identification of need for most children as strengths, alongside the work to support and protect unborn children.  

However, inspectors said there was more to do to understand the cumulative harm to children of repeated domestic abuse, as well as ensure more timely information sharing in a small number of practice areas. 

Sara Tough, OBE, Chair of the Designated Safeguarding Partners and Executive Director for Children's Services at Norfolk County Council, said: "As a partnership we are committed to ensuring that all children live their lives free of violence, which is why we give such priority to domestic abuse. Inspectors recognised this commitment, which is a key part of work to ensure every child in Norfolk can flourish. 

"Inspectors highlighted the strength of our partnership work, our work to design services with children and the strength of frontline practice, in supporting both adults and children affected by domestic abuse. 

"There is always more that we can do, and we recognise the areas identified for further work. An action plan is already being developed and will be closely monitored by the partnership." 

An action plan addressing the areas for further improvement needs to be submitted to inspectors in June and will inform lines of enquiry at future inspections.