Guernsey children plan three-year extension request

Guernsey's Health and Social Services Department (HSSD) is to request a three year extension to the current Children and Young People's Plan.

HSSD Minister Mark Dorey said the department needed more time to work with the rest of the States and with voluntary sector groups.

The plan was approved in November, 2010 with the aim of improving support and services for young islanders.

An updated plan was due after three years but HSSD now wants more time.

Deputy Dorey said: "Much has already been achieved - from improving healthy lifestyle education in schools to establishing a Post-Abuse Therapeutic Service for mothers and children, but there is more to do."

He said a revision would be worked on while the original plan continued to be implemented.

The Children (Guernsey and Alderney) Law of 2008 requires the department to explain every three years how it will work towards five overall aims.

These relate to children's health, protection, education, sense of responsibility and inclusion.

States members will debate the extension request at their meeting on 11 December.