Phil Ashford speaking about the launch of the Response unit
The new Child Sexual Exploitation Response Unit (#CSERU ) has been launched yesterday (13.09.16) and I am delighted that I have been chosen to lead this new initiative. The NWG’s work with professionals has been a valued resource for people working in this field of abuse and therefore the development of a funded response unit building on that previous work is an exciting expansion, for both the organisation and the professionals we will be working alongside.
The unit comprises of some of the NWG’s long standing staff, whilst the additional funding has allowed us to recruit new expertise to the team to expand our working brief. The unit has new posts addressing education and community engagement, working with parents and carers. We are also developing a register of skills and knowledge, utilising individuals and agencies with experience in tackling Child Sexual Exploitation, across the country to compliment the work of the unit.
The recognition by the government of the need to seriously address the issues of sexual exploitation among our young people is an important progression towards our aim of a society that has zero tolerance to the abuse of children and young people today.
The Response Unit will be hosted within the NWG organisation who will continue to offer a wider range of opportunities to improve knowledge and responses, highlight gaps and network with peers.
We look forward to seeing new people join our network, strengthening the sharing of knowledge and understanding in the coming weeks and months.
Phil Ashford
CSE Response Unit Lead
NWG Network
NWG Network 