CWDC to continue to support workforce beyond 2012

The Children’s Workforce Development Council (CWDC) has announced plans to continue beyond March 2012 despite being told the government will no longer fund their workforce development work from April 2012.

CWDC confirmed it will carry out a substantial programme of work with the Department for Education (DfE) during 2011/12, with £113.4m being invested in workforce development.  By next March much of its work will be transferred to either DfE, a new executive agency or be led by employers.

But CWDC, established in 2005, will retain its sector skills responsibilities and continue to support employers and the children’s workforce from April 2012 onwards.

Jane Haywood, Chief Executive, said: “We have made the most positive impact on the lives of children and young people when we have listened and responded to the people who work with them.  We know what works at the frontline, including the fact that when people work across professional boundaries they can make the largest difference to children’s lives. Supporting a child in every aspect of their life is more effective than focusing on their education or care alone.

“At the moment, employers are making some tough frontline decisions. We want to support them in this role, and make sure we build on what we know works so we can continue to make a difference to children and young people’s lives.”

“This will be our key task and we are confident there is a place for CWDC’s important work beyond March 2012. We will spend time over the next 12 months discussing with our employers and frontline workers how best we can support them. Whatever path CWDC takes, improving the lives of children, young people and their families will remain our raison d’être.”