13 January 2017 | Comments
A new Director of Safeguarding, Matt Ansell, has been appointed (photo attached). Matt will take up his post on St Helena on Friday 17 March 2017.
As Director of Safeguarding, Matt will be responsible for the integrity and quality of social services on St Helena, ensuring that services are provided in the most cost effective and ‘joined up’ way and, so far as possible – at a common standard, with a focus on prevention. This will include promoting collaboration across services, including those to children and young people, for those with learning disabilities, and other services such as residential provision.
Matt said:
“I was attracted to the role on St Helena as I have a strong belief in community-based social work and believe this role presents an interesting and unique opportunity to work in an amazing part of the world, and to also learn about a new culture and way of life.
“While I have never been to St Helena, I have done my best to read and learn about the Island and its people, and I am really looking forward to arriving and spending time to listen and understand from the community about its strengths, and areas which require further development.
“I look forward to arriving and starting work with the community to ensure children and their families are supported and live safe and happy lives.”
Acting Director of Safeguarding, Paul McGinnety, added:
“We are delighted that Matt is joining our team after a period of rapid Safeguarding progress on St Helena. Matt and his family arrive at a very exciting time for the Island and he will be welcomed by dedicated staff across the Safeguarding Directorate, other agencies and NGOs.”
Matt has an extensive background in Social Care and for the last 20 years has worked in a range of roles and different environments. Matt started his career working in residential services for adults and then subsequently children. Alongside of this work, Matt also studied for a Social Work Degree, and qualified in June 2000.
Since qualifying, Matt has predominately worked in Children Services for local authorities in the UK. He has occupied a range of social work roles in many diverse and interesting community settings. Matt has also gained experience in Mental Health & Adult Social Work during this time which has enabled him a strong understanding across all disciplines.
Matt has been Social Care Manager for the last 10 years and his current role is Senior Operational Manager for Children Services in West Sussex County Council.
Matt is moving to St Helena with his wife and three children.
SHG
13 January 2017
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