Speakers to set out the changes

From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Tuesday 31st Jan 2006.

THIS year will be a year of change in the childcare sector as volunteers and professionals take on board the new practices and standards brought about by the Bichard Report and the Children Act (2004).

The Learning And Skills Council is hosting a conference to help specialists get the most from these changes and understand how they will better equip them to work together in protecting children.

The conference takes place at Alexandra House, Wroughton, on Friday, February 3, between 9am and 4pm, The conference is open to all volunteers and professionals working in the childcare sector in the south west.

Speakers include Imelda Richardson, of the Commission For Social Care Inspection, and Enid Henry, the director of training and consultancy for the NSPCC.

Medical broadcaster, Dr Mark Porter, from Radio 2, will also be speaking.

"The childcare sector covers a wide variety of practitioners, from social workers to foster carers, and early years educators to the police," said Lisa Smart, the sector development adviser for health, social care and childcare at the Learning And Skills Council.

"During this time of policy change in the sector, we want to encourage childcare practitioners to embrace the legislation as enabling rather than restrictive.

"We have gathered a number of key speakers for the day, who are looking forward to discussing their thoughts and analysis with the attendees.

"I am sure that those attending will come away, having been given some real insight into how these, and other, pieces of important industry policy and working practices will affect them, their colleagues and the children that they work with."

Those interested in attending the conference should contact Lisa Smart on 01793 608017or email Lisa.Smart@lsc.gov.uk.