Child protection services 'make progress'

Hannah Collier speaks to the man in charge of revitalising Jersey's child protection services

After nearly a dozen recommendations, two year's work and £3m set aside - Jersey's child protection services are improving according to the expert who reviewed the system following the Haut De la Garenne child abuse allegations.

Andrew Williamson is helping to oversee the work and has told a public inquiry that he's pleased with the progress.

Two years ago child abuse at the former children's home Haut de la Garenne was international news. In the aftermath a report on the state of Jersey's children's services was made by Uk expert Andrew Williamson.

Back then, he said staff were demoralised; the service needed regular independent review and a strategic plan for the future should be drawn up. Now he say's the service and staff are making significant progress.

One of the main improvements is the employment of independent bodies to review and oversee places like Greenfields

The States have been promised a Childrens Plan by the end of the year. That will be the blueprint for how the childrens service will run in the future. The plan will incorporate all States departments, how they will work together and how they can share resources.

Child protection services 'make progress'