National Assembly for Wales / Cynulliad Cenedlaethol Cymru
Health and Social Care Committee/ Y Pwyllgor Iechyd a Gofal Cymdeithasol

Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Bill / Bil Rheoleiddio ac Arolygu Gofal Cymdeithasol (Cymru)

Evidence from Children in Wales– RISC AI 10 / Tystiolaeth gan Plant yng Nghymru – RISC AI 10

In response to your query, regarding the Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Bill, please find below our views on whether the definition of a social care worker in the Bill is sufficiently clear.

We believe that the definition as stated on the face of the Bill is suitable at this point in time.  However, as stated in my evidence, we would like to see over time a recognition that the workforce interfacing with vulnerable children is varied and regulated by different bodies.   A more joined up approach between the regulators would be welcome in the future.  We do not therefore see it as wise to extend registration to more individuals such as foster carers at present as it could reduce services available to children.

2. Could the Bill be strengthened in relation to regulating the commissioning of services by local authorities?

We agree that the quality of the services will ultimately depend on the quality of the commissioning.  For instance quality assuring commissioning in relation to implementation of the UNCRC/child development etc  is essential so we would like to see it strengthened.

Kindest Regards

Catriona

CATRIONA WILLIAMS OBE

Chief Executive

Children in Wales