A project to improve outcomes for vulnerable children by building up practitioners' communication skills has been launched.
The scheme, which is run by the Family Support Unit at the National Children's Bureau, aims to help social workers in 14 local authorities increase their confidence in involving children in assessment practice.
Seminars will be held throughout the year, allowing practitioners to identify good practice and explore new ways of working collaboratively.
"The project will be looking at communication in the broadest sense, in order to make sure that children's concerns and needs are being appropriately identified," said Ruth Dalzell, head of the unit.
Judith Ellis has joined the unit as senior development officer to lead the project.
The Department for Education and Skills is funding the initiative.
