News that over 70 new posts are to be created in Northern Ireland’s social services is being hailed as a major move toward strengthening Northern Ireland’s child protection measures.

THE Assembly has backed a motion opposing the closure of residential care homes. The motion was proposed by the DUP during an Assembly debate at Stormont this week.

A new scheme planned for the Sligo Road in Enniskillen aims to help older people suffering with dementia maintain their independence and keep their links with the local community alive.

The Western Health and Social Care Trust (Western Trust) officially launched the next phase of its Comprehensive Spending Review Consultation last week. The consultation will run for 12 weeks, closing at 4.00pm on 10th March 2009.

THE LOCAL health and social services Trust is appealing to people to consider opening their homes to a child in need.

EAST Antrim MP Sammy Wilson has accused health chiefs of “absolute betrayal” after the Northern Health and Social Care Trust announced it intends to close Larne’s Lisgarel residential home.

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has announced the appointment of the Chief Executives (Designate) who will lead the four new Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations.

The NSPCC in Derry have launched a new service to support children and parents living with domestic violence. The Domestic Abuse Recovery and Support service will help families recover from the effects of domestic violence.

THE Northern Health and Social Trust has been asked to name the residential nursing homes which will be closed as part of a spending review.

A new health and care centre is to be built in Carrick following the approval of funding by the Health Minister. The £9 million complex, which will replace the ageing facilities on Taylor’s Avenue, forms part of an investment package announced last week by Michael McGimpsey.