The review is being headed by Gwenda Thomas, the assembly member for Neath, who previously chaired the Social Services Committee of West Glamorgan County Council. Ms Thomas is also to lead an examination of the policy implications of the inquiry established by the home secretary in the light of the Soham murder trial.
Announcing the review at the offices of the charity Children in Wales, first minister Rhodri Morgan said, 'Over the past four years a number of guidelines and measures have been introduced to secure the protection of children, and the promotion of their welfare.
'This review will assess progress on the delivery of services on the ground to identify how lessons have been learned and guidance and good practice implemented.'
Mr Morgan added that he wanted to see 'the extent to which services on the front line match up to the policies and guidance we have set out and the investment we have made'.
Jane Hutt, Wales' minister for children, said the review group, whose membership will be announced in the coming weeks, would take evidence from local authorities, voluntary groups, the children's commissioner, the emergency services, teachers' organisations, groups representing young people, and social work trainers.
She added, 'We want to make sure, in collaboration with our partners in local government, that changes and good practice are taking place across Wales in all areas to protect children in all circumstances.'
The review is expected to take around 12 months.
