Norwood was recently chosen to host a high level delegation of representatives from the Ministry of Welfare in Israel who spent four days in London learning more about procedures and practice in the UK around safeguarding children at risk of abuse.
Norwood presented the valuable work its social work team does in safeguarding children in the Community. The fact that they were joined in this presentation by colleagues from the London Borough of Barnet and Dr. Danya Glaser from Great Ormond Street Hospital, a leading voice in the world of safeguarding children and a member of Norwood’s advisory council, is clear evidence that Norwood is determined to take a leading role in working alongside other agencies to safeguard the well being of children right across the Jewish Community.
The visit coincided with the release of the Audit Commission’s Comprehensive Performance Assessment of local authorities which showed that most, with some exceptions, are improving their performance.
Norwood provides both children’s and adults’ services which are commissioned by local authorities all over England, but particularly by London boroughs, and welcomes this news. The publication of this data, ironically, comes against a backdrop of accounts in the media of local authorities around the country which have been judged to be failing children and families they are meant to support.
David Harris, Head of Operational Services said, “The Government is encouraging local authorities to work more effectively with voluntary sector agencies and Norwood is well positioned for this. Our work with families and children in the community often contributes significantly to preventing difficulties escalating and coming to the attention of statutory agencies and this is widely recognised although often not funded other than by the generosity of our donors.”
For further information, photos and interviews, please contact Naomi Creeger, Public Relations Manager at Norwood, on 020 8420 6942 or email naomi.creeger@norwood.org.uk.
