Terms of reference for Williamson review into child protection announced

07 September 2007

​​The Council of Ministers has agreed the terms of reference for Andrew Williamson’s forthcoming independent review of child protection arrangements. Mr Williamson has started work and has already met a number of States Members.

The States Employment Board is fully committed to co-operating with the review. Given the paramount importance of protecting Jersey’s children, they are confident that States employees will be particularly forthcoming in responding to the Williamson review.

The review is designed to identify good practice and failings and to identify any improvements that can be made; it is expected to conclude before the end of 2007.

The final report document will be published and made available to the public.

Notes to Editors:

1. The terms of reference for Andrew Williamson’s independent review of child protection arrangements are detailed below.
2. For further information, please contact Senator Frank Walker, Chief Minister or Bill Ogley, Chief Executive on 440401.
3. Individuals who wish to give evidence to the review can contact Mr Williamson. Further contact details will be published shortly.​

Council of Ministers – Child Protection Review

The States of Jersey expect the highest standards ​of child care and protection so as to give parents of children requiring our care and support and the children themselves the confidence and security to which they are entitled. The Council of Ministers therefore specify the following terms of reference for a review of child protection, as a preliminary to any committee of enquiry to which the States may subsequently agree:

Terms of Reference

To investigate and report upon:

Issues relating to child protection in Jersey

The appropriateness of the policies, advice and procedures provided by the Jersey Child Protection Committee and the Health and Social Services, Education and Home Affairs Departments

The manner in which such policies, advice and procedures are followed by the Departments

The standards, experience and qualifications of staff at all levels and within all relevant Departments

To make recommendations as to any and all actions that are considered immediately necessary to ensure the highest standards of childcare and protection and thereafter to inform any committee of enquiry which the States may subsequently constitute