NI: Consultation launched on extending flexible arrangements in children’s social care

NI: Consultation launched on extending flexible arrangements in children's social care

Robin Swann

The Department of Health has launched a consultation on extending temporary arrangements for “flexibility” in children’s social care until November.

Regulations were introduced in May to provide HSC Trusts and other children’s social care providers with temporary modifications to support them during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The regulations, which enable HSC Trusts to undertake a number of their statutory duties in relation to vulnerable children in different ways or within adjusted timescales, were originally in place until November 2020 but were extended until May 2021.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “The latest monitoring data indicates that a level of flexibility in a small number of areas continues to be required for a further period to support staff to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in their care.

“We are seeking views on proposals to extend the regulations relating to that small number of areas for another six months.”

The consultation will run until 22 April 2021.

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