Risk indicator framework workshop-Towards a common approach to risk assessment |28 June 2006

The workshop, organised by the department of social affairs, was officially launched on Monday by the principal secretary for Social Affairs, Antoinette Alexis, in the presence of  the Minister for Health and Social Services, Vincent Meriton.

Held under the theme “Working together towards early identification and intervention”, the workshop is being facilitated by Tom Narducci, project officer from the NSPCC UK. Mr Narducci is being assisted by local sociologist Marie-Pierre Lloyd.

When addressing the guests and participants representing various organisations and institutions working for the well being of children such as the National Council for Children (NCC), social workers, teachers, Seychelles Police among others, Ms Alexis said that “with this framework….we have a unique opportunity to adopt a more holistic approach to working with children.”

Noting it is common knowledge that every agency and organisation working with children has its own way for assessing risks and addressing them, Ms Alexis said that it is very important, therefore, “that the risk indicator framework is one that is dynamic, and offers a new way of working to ensure the well being of our children.” 

Through the workshop, the participants will have the opportunity to explore best practices in child protection and learn what is happening in other countries. Then, through case study discussions and based on their work experience, the participants will be able to examine and agree on what will work best in the Seychelles context.

During the first day of the workshop, the director general for social affairs, Noella Gonthier, gave an overview of the risk indicator framework, which was commissioned in February last year as part of the five-year National Plan of Action for Children which will also guide decision makers on how to educate and ensure the well being and development of our children.

Once approved, the risk indicator framework will be piloted in two districts - Pointe Larue and Anse Boileau - before being implemented nationwide.