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Launch of Sandwell’s Children’s Trust

Staff have moved into new accommodation and started work at Sandwell Children’s Trust.

The trust was officially launched on Sunday April 1 after moving into its new headquarters at the Wellman Building in Dudley Road, Oldbury.

Jacqui Smith, Chair of Sandwell Children’s Trust, described it as the start of a new era for children’s services in Sandwell.

“The creation of the Sandwell Children’s Trust offers a crucial opportunity to improve the services that we offer to the most vulnerable children and families in Sandwell.
“When life gets tough for children, they deserve the best care and the best people to support them.
“We’ve worked with staff to set a clear purpose – improving the lives of children and young people.

“This means getting the basics right; listening to children and young people; innovating where possible and using the freedoms of the new Trust model to develop stronger and more effective services and partnerships.”

Plans were announced by the Government in October 2016 to introduce an independent trust to run Sandwell’s children’s social care services.

Since then Sandwell Council has been working with the Department for Education to set up Sandwell Children’s Trust.

Ms Smith added: “I’d like to thank the council for the hard work that has gone into setting up the trust during the past 18 months.

“I believe we have put together an excellent team that is capable of delivering a service the young people in Sandwell deserve - but now is the time to get down to work.”

Earlier this year Frances Craven was appointed as chief executive of the trust. Ms Craven, who previously worked at Leicester City Council where she oversaw significant improvements to the council's children's services, said she was excited for the challenges ahead.

“In the short time I’ve been here I have witnessed first-hand a real passion and commitment to improving the lives of children in Sandwell,” she said.

“I’ve spoken to staff from across the service and am confident that together we’re ready to deliver a better service.

“I’m also looking forward to getting to know all of our partners who will play a huge role in helping us achieve our goals.”

Sandwell Council, which retains statutory responsibility for Children’s Services in the borough, will continue to work closely with the trust while monitoring the progress made.

To find out more about Sandwell Children’s Trust please visit www.sandwellchildrenstrust.org

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