DfE plans to help young people set up online advice networks and workshops

The Department for Education has announced plans to help young people set up online advice networks and workshops so they can offer peer support on mental health issues. The government is consulting on how to help young people give each other appropriate advice and support in a safe manner.
Source: Department for Education 17 February 2016
Further information:
Children and young people’s mental health: peer support

The role of Children’s Commissioner for Wales (CCfW)

The Welsh Government has published its respones to an independent review of the role of Children’s Commissioner for Wales (CCfW). The report responds to the review’s recommendations and sets out changes that will be made to support the Commissioner’s role.
Source: Welsh Government  08 February 2016
Further information:
Response to the independent review of the role and functions of the Children’s Commissioner for Wales (PDF).

Statistics on care leavers in unsuitable accommodation in England

The Minister for Schools, Edward Timpson, has released statistics on care leavers in unsuitable accommodation in England. The data, which was provided in response to a written question, shows that in 2015 1,840 care leavers were living in accommodation that was considered unsuitable.
Source: Children & Young People Now 11 February 2016
Further information:
theyworkforyou.com  05 February 2016

The NSPCC has launched a government funded Whistleblowing Advice Line

The NSPCC has launched a government funded Whistleblowing Advice Line. This will take calls from professionals from any sector who are worried about the way their, or another, organisation is dealing with child protection issues. Employees who don’t feel able to escalate these issues internally can contact the service, as well as those who have been unsuccessful in doing so. It can be reached for free on 0800 028 0285 and can be contacted anonymously.
Source: NSPCC Website 13 February 2016

Teacher shortages are growing in England and government recruitment targets have been missed for four years

Teacher shortages are growing in England and government recruitment targets have been missed for four years, a report by the National Audit Office has concluded.

The BBC reports that the official spending watchdog warns that shortages are particularly bad in poorer areas and at secondary school level despite the overall number of teachers keeping pace with rising pupil numbers.

Source: CYPNow Online