Since the initiatives outset, the Certificate of Minimum Standards (CMS) has been a joint venture between the PVI sector and the Local Authority. The CMS steering group (61KB Word file) was set up in October 2007 and consisted of three representatives from the Children and Young People’s Network (CYPSS - the main voice for Children and Young People's Service providers from the Voluntary, Community and Private sector working in Waltham Forest) and representatives from the following council teams: the Local Safeguarding Children's Board (LSCB), Extended Schools, Extended Services, and the Education Improvement Support Service (EISS).
Without the advice, guidance and challenges made by the CMS Steering Group's PVI representatives the CMS would not have been possible and it is hoped that the joint nature of the initiative and its aims reflect their crucial input.
The concept of the CMS came about from the recognition that it was crucial to ensure that local PVI Organisations received additional support and information from the Local Authority in order that they were prepared for new national initiatives and local procurement processes. As such, the CMS Steering Group continues to play a key role in ensuring that the initiative meets its aims and that, wherever possible, additional support and benefits continue to be developed.
The purpose of these pages are to explain the aims of the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s Certificate of Minimum Standards (CMS) and how it is managed and supported within the borough. They also provide details on the CMS process and a step by step guide to support organisations to complete their CMS portfolio.
Please note:
An organisation holding CMS certification will have been found to meet standards that promote safe working practices within organisations delivering services to children and young people. The CMS does not quality assure the services and activities delivered by an organisation. For information on Quality Marks that organisations can achieve for the quality of the services / activities it delivers please see the Quality Assurance page.
CMS certification lasts for 3 years, after which organisations are required to resubmit their portfolio to be reassessed. Responsibility for ensuring that policies and procedures are continually updated and disseminated through all staff and volunteers during the three years of certification remains with the organisation.
