Recommendation 14

MoJ and DfE told us that LFJBs are a vital part of the system, bringing local partners together to focus on local problems which will not be the same in different parts of the country. LFJBs have an important role to play in improving local services, but they are non-statutory bodies, FJB does not have authority over them. They struggle, for example, with administrative resource, and their effectiveness varies. MoJ told us that it has provided support to improve LFJBs’ work, for example, through standardised terms of reference and improved guidance for LFJB chairs, more frequent meetings with LFJBs (twice a year), and better connection between FJBs and LFJBs including LFJB representatives on FJB. MoJ also told us that this year it will ask LFJBs to produce action plans that show the steps they are taking to meet the priorities set by the FJB, and that LFJBs would report back halfway through the year.24 Improving processes and supporting families