16 June 2023
The Minister for Children and Education is calling on the entire community to work together with
the Government to make our Island the best possible place for children, young people and their
families to study, play, grow and thrive.
In a passionate plea, Deputy Inna Gardiner said that the Government cannot improve the lives of
children and families alone and that everyone needs to play their part to ensure everyone thrives.
Deputy Gardiner said: “We must work closely with all government departments, charities, agencies
that support families, and with children, families and communities themselves, to continue to drive
improvements, and achieve the outcomes that they deserve. Delivering real change for children
and families requires a long-term commitment and the support and collaboration of the entire
community.
“We cannot reach the best outcomes for children if we don’t work together. There is a lot of great
work in the community already, but we all need to work in partnership to ensure every child and
family thrives. Everyone needs to play their part. The Government cannot do it alone. Employers,
parents, communities and voluntary organisations all have a part to play.”
Following a comprehensive review led by the Minister for Children and Education, earlier this year,
into the previous Children’s Boards, a new Committee has now been established to develop and
oversee a revised Children and Young People Plan for 2024-2027.
The Children’s Outcomes Executive Committee will lead on cross-Government policy and provide a
clear, strategic framework for the Government’s responsibility to children, young people, and
families.
Deputy Gardiner, added: “I am passionate about delivering the best outcome for children and
young people in Jersey so that everyone has a chance to thrive. In order to do this we need a new
structure to enable us to hear the voices of all children and young people especially the seldom
heard.”
A number of engagement workshops were held with Ministers, government representatives and
partners to review the work programmes of previous boards.
“I would like to thank everyone who was involved in these workshops,” said Deputy Gardiner. “The
feedback we received highlighted there was a need for a clear and simple structure to monitor
outcomes and improvements for our children, young people, and families.”
A new feature of the new Children’s Outcomes Executive Committee will be to introduce forums
which will be focused on understanding children's experience and have a focus on action with
front-line practitioners encouraged to share work and initiatives.
Deputy Gardiner added: “We are committed to bringing together a wider partnership to help
develop and improve outcomes for children and families. We welcome views from all those
working with and for families through our new structure and forums.”
In preparation for the new Children and Young People (Jersey) Law 2022 the Minister has refreshed
the Corporate Parenting Board (CPD). The Board will have oversight of future Corporate Parenting activity
undertaken by public authorities whilst acting as an important champion for better outcomes for
children in care and leaving care.
The CPB will continue as a statutory requirement of the Children and
Young People (Jersey) Law 2022 and details of the meetings will be published online.
gov.je