The Children’s Team is based behind Ebony View in Half Tree Hollow; they can be contacted on Tel: 23312.
The Children’s Team is comprised of:
• Team Manager
• Social Workers
• Social Care Officers
The Speech and Language Service is also based within the Children’s Team, providing specialist support for children on St Helena. Together, the team has a duty to protect children who may be at risk of harm, whether from family members or others. The team is responsible for supporting and protecting children to live safe, happy, and healthy lives. This involves working with the children, their parents or caregivers, and other agencies. The Children’s Team works closely with other multi-agency partners such as the police, health, education, probation, and others.
The Children’s Team has a statutory obligation to safeguard and promote the welfare of vulnerable children, as outlined in the Welfare of Children’s Ordinance, 2008. They can provide a range of services to children and their parents or caregivers, coordinated by a Social Worker. All support is identified through assessments completed with the family to holistically evaluate their needs and provide support at the appropriate level.
Referrals
Referrals to Children’s Services can be made in several ways. You can request help yourself by calling the team on 23312 or by completing an email referral as detailed below.
Referrals can also be made by other professionals working with the children or family, including schools, doctors, and the police. If there are concerns that a child is being abused or neglected, professionals, family members, or anyone else who is concerned can approach the Children’s Team or the police for advice.
Email referrals should be completed using the Referral Form and sent to childrens.services@sainthelena.gov.sh. Should you have difficulties completing the form you can call the team on 23312 and they will assist you with this.
If a child is in immediate danger, please contact the Police immediately.
