CYP Now - Letter: Key worker services

I read with interest the interview with Treasury minister Ed Balls (Children Now, 12-18 July). What interested me is not only the potential for the development of more key worker services throughout England if more funds are made available, but also the minister's question "are we delivering (services) in the right way?". Research published in July 2005 showed how effective key worker services can improve parental morale, lessen isolation and provide effective support in managing health care needs at home and school.

At the moment, implementation of key worker services in England ispatchy and although there has been an increase in services through theEarly Support programme it is not clear how this will be mainstreamedinto the new structures of children's centres and the reorganising ofchildren's services. It is clear that key worker services are neededthroughout a disabled child's life. I remain optimistic that thingsshould only improve.

Katy Barton, director, Care Co-ordination Network UK

- We welcome your views. Please write, including address and phonenumber, to: The editor, Children Now, 174 Hammersmith Road, London W67JP, or email cn.editorial@haynet.com. We reserve the right to editletters for publication.

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