When we need to understand more about networks, connections and places we should always consider a mapping exercise.
For further detail and research please go to peer-mapping-examples.pdf (contextualsafeguarding.org.uk)
Best practice in peer mapping is to ensure conversations are had beforehand about the reason for the peer map and what the intended outcome will be.
Consider who will use the peer map and if this will be updated.
Consider who will be invited and whose responsibility it will be to facilitate, record and specify actions.
When inviting professionals consider– Housing, YJS (Youth Justice), Police, Social Workers, Education, LASBT, the Youth Service etc.
Below are some best practice prompts for how to complete a mapping.
What to include:
Full names, level of assessed risk, professionals involved, school
Places of concern- refer contextual MACE/PIP
Adults of concern- refer contextual MACE/PIP
Sibling/family links to CE concerns
Consider girls in gangs
Travel links-how are children getting from A to B
Connections to children who have died through SYV/CCE
Strengths and Vulnerabilities
Identity/culture
Reliability of information – where has it come from
What to avoid:
List of names with no actions
Initials or codes no one else will understand
Names being used as fact by other services e.g someone being linked to a gang member and therefore assumed as being in the gang.