Learning examples: Impact of IASP funding

This collection of short learning examples is part of a series highlighting the leadership and strategic work of IAS service managers (or service lead officers) supported and funded through the IAS programme.

The Covid-19 pandemic has been a time of unprecedented challenge, requiring services to adapt and adjust their provision and ways of working in order to respond to this challenge. IAS services have continued to provide invaluable support to children, young people and families as well as to other professionals during this time, often in new and unexpected ways. The case studies below demonstrate the impact and benefit of IASP funding for IAS services and service users during the Covid crisis.

This collection of short learning examples is part of a series highlighting the leadership and strategic work of IAS service managers (or service lead officers) supported and funded through the IAS programme.

IAS services rapidly adapting to new ways of working under pandemic conditions in order to reach service users and work effectively with professional partners. Including, recognising the value of virtual working using digital technology whilst continuing to offer a blended working approach could also meet the communication needs of service users.
Developing service user led online platforms and information, compiled into a range of different mediums to make information accessible for all. Including, developing website and social media pages as specified in the Minimum Standards and making adaptations to service procedures to ensure they are running effectively “from home”.
Designing and developing innovative projects such as ambassador volunteer programmes in order to provide effective to support to parents and carers who may be feeling isolated due to living in geographically dispersed areas as well as to facilitate greater connections between IAS services and parent groups.
Facilitating virtual workshops in which professionals and parents can engage with each other. Including, providing a platform for parents and carers to engage with LA staff over planned reopening and transition back to school.

South West

Bristol IASS: Improvements to our offer and enquiry line

Devon IASS: Our Ambassador volunteering project

Gloucestershire IASS: Supporting our community during the pandemic

North Somerset IASS: Increase in web based service user reach and referral rates

South East

Bracknell Forest IASS : How IASP funding has benefitted the service during the Covid crisis

Brighton & Hove IASS: Taking social media to a new level during the pandemic

East Sussex IASS: Taking parent workshops online

West Sussex IASS: Empowering Families through Webinars

London

Barking & Dagenham IASS: Adapting our offer to meet local needs during Covid-19