From 1 April 2006 each local authority must have a Children's and Young People's Plan and a local workforce strategy that covers the entire workforce.
Advice on Developing and Implementing an Integrated Local Children's Services Workforce Strategy, which is available in electronic format on the CWDC website, can support directors of children's services, children's trusts, local authorities, health bodies and other employers in the development of their local and organisational workforce development strategies, including voluntary and independent sector providers.
The support materials, which have been developed in consultation with the DfES and the Employers' Organisation for Local Government, were commissioned in response to comments received in the Children's Workforce Strategy consultation in summer 2005. They cover the components of an effective strategy, planning, key considerations, potential issues, deciding priorities and good practice.
A regional consultancy service has been launched alongside this to help planners to develop their own tailored workforce plans. Free initial consultancy sessions are being offered to each Children's Trust area in England between December 2005 and March 2006.
Jane Haywood, chief executive of CWDC, said, 'This is the first stage of assistance CWDC is offering. We will create further materials with interactive facilities and an increased focus on workforce strategy implementation. There is still much work to be done to achieve the goals of the children's workforce strategy. CWDC will work with our key partners to provide the right support and advice to help achieve this.'
Local areas are encouraged to share examples of best practice with others through the online resource pages. From April 2006, workshops and networking events will take place across the country to support directors of children's services and other local partners as they clarify their planning priorities.
To view the resource and download a list of approved regional consultants, visit www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/advice/.
* The Government's response to the children's workforce strategy has been delayed until the New Year, the DfES confirmed last week.
