TRANSFORMING the lives of vulnerable children and families has been the focus of a week of events in Middlesbrough.

The Children's Services Practice Week brought together experts in the field to share skills, knowledge and best practice at a series of events and workshops.

Organised by Middlesbrough Council, the sessions included motivational interviewing skills, direct work with young people, working with vulnerable adolescents, and families where adult issues impact on children’s needs.

Keynote speakers at Friday’s flagship event at the Acklam Green Centre included New Zealand’s chief social worker, Paul Nixon talking about relational practice, and Frontline’s head of region in the North East, Allan Brownrigg.

Mr Brownrigg said: “At Frontline, we’re committed to providing the highest quality of teaching and training, and to working with local authorities across the region to inspire best practice in the social work profession.

“This has been a great opportunity for people working in child welfare across the North East to come together to celebrate great practice, and share their skills and knowledge.

“We’re really proud to be continuing our partnership with Middlesbrough and we look forward to being a part of future improvement in children’s services across the region.”

Delegates at the Children’s Services Practice Conference at the Acklam Green Centre

Suzy Kitching, the council’s principal social worker for children and families, said: “I feel proud of the excellent commitment our staff have shown towards supporting children and families in Middlesbrough.

“Our first ever Practice Week has been a huge achievement, enabling staff to demonstrate their dedication to learning and building skills by engaging in a range of learning sessions.”

Councillor Mike Carr, the council’s executive member for children’s services, said: “Ensuring our young people have the best possible start in life is one of the cornerstones of what we do, and Children’s Services are at the forefront of that work.

“I am immensely proud of their tireless efforts day in, day out on behalf of children and families in Middlesbrough and this Practice Week is a well-deserved celebration of their commitment and professionalism.”