AM SEEKS URGENT MEETING WITH LOCAL AUTHORITY FOLLOWING REPORT ON SOCIAL SERVICES IN NEATH PORT TALBOT

Following the publication of the report by the Care and Social Services Inspectorate for Wales (CSSIW) on Children’s Social Services in Neath Port Talbot, together with the statement by the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services, David Rees AM has sought a meeting with the leader and chief executive of the authority. At this meeting he will discuss the actions being taken by the authority to ensure that the welfare of children in Neath Port Talbot is paramount and that the best possible outcomes for the children and their families are achieved.

David Rees AM said:
“The security and wellbeing of children must always be paramount and the authority must ensure that this is always their primary focus. These are often the most vulnerable children in society and they need the support of a safe, effective and compassionate system where they receive the highest standards of care.

Whilst I am concerned that the CSSIW has seen the need to take this action I do recognise that the local authority has already taken steps to improve the situation and I welcome the appointment of a new Head of Children’s Social Services at the authority. I expect the leadership, both within the organisation and political, to ensure that a thorough investigation takes place and the necessary measures are taken to resolve the concerns raised within the report.

The people who work within our social services do an amazing job, often in very difficult and emotionally challenging situations. It is vital that such staff are supported and that the authority ensures that they are not overburdened so they can deliver the services required. The right resources must be put in place to achieve this and appropriate scrutiny by the authority must be undertaken.”