Bracknell

Experts working with Bracknell children and young people made sure they were up-to-date with the latest thinking at the Safeguarding Children and Young People Conference on January 13.

The conference brought together representatives from a number of agencies including Bracknell Forest Borough Council's Education, Children's Services and Libraries department, Social Services and Housing department, Thames Valley Police, health services, Probation Service and voluntary and community groups.

Alex Walters, Vice-chairperson of the Bracknell Forest Area Child Protection Committee and Assistant Director of Education, Children's Services and Libraries, welcomed 120 delegates to the conference held at Easthampstead Baptist Church in Bracknell.

Tony Eccleston, Bracknell Director of Education, Children's Services and Libraries, gave the keynote address on safeguarding the wellbeing of children and young people through the establishment of new Local Safeguarding Children Board from April 2006.

A series of workshops followed focusing on issues including pre-birth assessments, communicating with children with disabilities and safetguarding children from sexual exploitation.

Delegates were able to share ideas, discuss issues and make sure they were up-to-date on the latest developments.

During the afternoon a theatre company called Spaniel in the Works highlighted many of the themes discussed earlier in the day in a thought-provoking drama about a young person who experiences domestic abuse in his home.

Tony Eccleston said: "We organised this conference to share good practice between representatives of all the agencies that play a part in safeguarding the welfare of children and young people, and to prepare for the establishment of a Safeguarding Board.

"It's a fast-moving, ever-changing area so the conference was an opportunity to strengthen the links between our organisations, to share our knowledge and understanding. As recent events have shown, safeguarding children and young people is of the highest priority to parents, carers and professionals alike."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council