The paper chase

Given the number of tragedies that could, potentially, have been avoided across Yorkshire if the staff concerned had acted differently, there will be widespread support for the change of approach advocated by Professor Eileen Munro's independent review.

It will certainly appease those social care staff who contend that the practicalities of their job, one of the most difficult in the public sector, come a distant second to the priorities of bureaucrats.

Yet, in many of the cases that have come to light in Doncaster, Kirklees and Leeds, the primary concern has been a shortage of staff rather than issues related to paperwork. And, if there is to be continuity of care when staff go on leave, or transfer to other jobs, there does, in fact, need to be a proper audit trail so vulnerable children at risk of abuse or neglect are protected at all times. Unless this happens, a bureaucratic misunderstanding could, potentially, end in tragedy.