A NEW inspection regime is to be introduced to examine how councils, health and probation services and the police are working together to protect children living with, or at risk of, neglect.

The inspections, which will target six areas, will involve Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), HMI Constabulary and HMI Probation.

They will look at local support services for children living with neglect in particular focusing on the experiences of those aged between seven and 15, who may be at higher risk of going missing or being exploited, or who exhibit challenging behaviours in adolescence.

Inspectors will also speak with school leaders and staff to get a wider picture of how neglect is identified and referred.

Ofsted chief inspector Amanda Spielman said: “Identifying signs of neglect in middle childhood and adolescence can be very complex, as children at this age experience and respond to neglect differently from younger children. However, at any age, the impact of childhood neglect can be lifelong.

“It’s crucial that local partner agencies understand the long-term effects of neglect and recognise the need for early and appropriate intervention.

“These inspections will provide valuable insight into the local area response to neglect. They will highlight good practice that others can learn from.”