NAVCA recently held a survey
of its members to determine the wider views surrounding the
statutory powers for the Compact debate. A
summary paper
(Word, 60 KB) was produced to support this survey.
47 members responded, and the responses formed the basis of a
paper
(Word, 77 KB) which was discussed at the Trustee Board Meeting
in July.
At this meeting, and having considered the results of the
members' survey, NAVCA Trustees agreed the following policy
positions:
- Local authorities and primary care trusts should be required by
law to develop a local Compact agreement which would meet minimum
standards.
- The Commissioner for the Compact should have statutory powers
similar to those of the Children's Commissioner.
- Further research and debate is needed before NAVCA can develop
a policy position on the issue of whether Compact agreements
themselves should have a statutory basis, which would mean that
there would be legal implications to Compact breaches.
NAVCA now looks forward to playing an active role in the
developing research and debate into the future of the
Compact.