Executive Needed For Urgent Reforms Of Social Care Services

With more than 4,000 young people waiting for assessment, an Executive is urgently needed to reform children's social care service in Northern Ireland.

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA and Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA made the call following the publication of a new report on the service, which outlines 53 recommendations.

Ms Long said: "I welcome this report from the review panel, which is clear urgent action is required for those children and families who rely on social care services.

"However, we risk the report becoming another review sitting on a dusty shelf without an Executive to implement the changes or recommendations. Further delay in restoring the institutions will mean more children in Northern Ireland suffering worse outcomes as the system is overwhelmed. We need to take preventative measures and bring down referrals to be more in line with other jurisdictions on these islands.

"The longer we go without an Executive, the further Northern Ireland falls behind and the more we let down these young people."

Ms Bradshaw added: "Families and young people need and deserve better social services. We must ensure our health and social care services support people throughout their lives, and all children and young people are given the best start in life.

"This report spells out improved ways of cross-departmental working, which can ensure children and young people here have the very best support and care. We know early intervention is key to many aspects of health services and children in care are often at higher risk of trauma and mental health issues. Yet, here we have another example of long waiting lists for public services.

"I congratulate Professor Ray Jones and his panel on such a comprehensive report, and hope political leadership will not be lacking in the implementation of its recommendations. We cannot continue to shirk our responsibilities to children and young people."