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MORE RESOURCES FOR CHILD PROTECTION IN NORTHERN IRELAND
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The Community Practitioners’ and Health Visitors’ Association was commenting on the Lewis report into the death of a 14-month old child and severe injuries to his twin brother in Craigavon.
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The CPHVA, which represents the majority of Northern Ireland’s health visitors, said that it was regrettable there were inadequate systems in place at the time to prevent this tragedy and called for more resources for health visiting services to be made available for child protection. Arrangements must now be put in place to review and monitor service standards.
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The CPHVA’s Professional Officer for Northern Ireland, Briege Coyle said: ‘The CPHVA welcomes any recommendations that will improve standards in practice in relation to child protection. We will continue to stress the importance of supporting practitioners through practice development, clinical supervision and case management in relation to vulnerable children.’
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We recognise the importance of having clear policies in place which practitioners can realistically and easily translate into day to day practice. This case once again highlights the importance of good multi-disciplinary and inter-agency training and working.’
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‘In addition, all practitioners and managers must be clear regarding their responsibilities to communicate and act for the care and protection of children.’
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‘We hope that the enquiry’s recommendations will be fully resourced and supported by all relevant agencies.’
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‘It must not be forgotten that society has also a responsibility for protecting children. Society must make a greater effort to protect its children from physical and mental abuse.’
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