§ Mr. Dickensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in the light of the evidence presented in the case of the death of Jasmine Beckford, he is satisfied with the training and standards of those employed by local authorities to undertake the supervision of cases involving children at risk; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenThis case demonstrates the difficulties social work staff face and emphasises the need for good training and the development of skills in supervision. The Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work (CCETSW) keeps the scope and content of social work training programmes under review. In addition there are opportunities for qualified staff to attend post qualifying courses approved by CCETSW on child care to promote the development of child care knowledge and skill. There are also training opportunities provided locally and by organisations such as the National Children's Bureau and the British Association for the Study and Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.