Over 250 health, social work and voluntary sector workers will join colleagues from the emergency services at Paisley Town Hall, on 3 September, for Renfrewshire’s annual child protection conference.

town hall

The conference, organised by the Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee (RCPC), includes presentations from a high-powered panel of professors including Alexis Jay OBE, who led the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in Rotherham. Earlier this year, Professor Jay was invited to give a detailed presentation on her findings to members of the RCPC and councillors.

Brigid Daniel, Professor of Social Work at the University of Stirling, will be speaking on the need to develop authoritative responses to child neglect. Professor Andrew Kendrick, Head of the School of Social Work and Social Policy at the University of Strathclyde, will be speaking about his ongoing work into the historic abuse of children in Scotland.

Andrew Lowe, Independent Chair of the Renfrewshire Child Protection Committee (RCPC), said, “We are delighted to have secured such eminent speakers this year. The conference has become an important annual event for Renfrewshire as we strive to provide and discuss the latest information on keeping our children safe from harm.

“We also need to remember that keeping our children safe is everyone’s job. Without the information provided by friends, family members and neighbours our job becomes very difficult indeed.

“We urge anyone who is worried about a child or young person to get in touch and share their concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. Small pieces of information can build into a bigger picture highlighting that a child is at risk.”

Councillor Jacqueline Henry, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children Policy Board, said, “This conference puts a number of key child protection issues under the microscope – neglect, historic abuse and child sexual exploitation.

“Sharing information and working together effectively are hugely important when it comes to protecting children. This conference offers colleagues the chance to build professional relationships and explore the challenges we all face in protecting vulnerable children and young people.”

In addition to the key speakers, the event features a range of seminars hosted by Barnardo’s, the Centre for Excellence for Looked After Children in Scotland (CELCIS), Kibble Education and Care Centre, Renfrewshire Council, Theraplay and Women & Children 1st.

Anyone who is worried about a child or young person should call:

Social Work 0300 300 1199, 0800 811 505 out-of-office hours
Police Scotland 101 or 999 in an emergency
Childline 0800 1111
NSPC Helpline 0800 811505.

Author

Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X