Junior Ministers promote investment in our young people

Timely, targeted interventions are vital for our young people’s future was the message from Junior Ministers Kelly and Newton at a seminar held in Belfast today.

The seminar, ‘Early Intervention in Children’s services – a case study of the Birmingham Brighter Futures Strategy’ was hosted jointly by Barnardos and the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister. The seminar focused on how to best allocate public resources to improve the future for children and young people.

Junior Minister Kelly said: We are very aware of the value of early intervention and prevention in children’s services. We recognise the very real benefits that can be realised through providing timely and targeted interventions, most importantly for the young people involved but also for the economic benefits that be achieved by such practices.”

Junior Minister Newton said: We realise that there are no quick fixes in relation to improving the lives of children and young people. We must raise awareness, at all levels, of the need to revaluate our spending. The cost of investment at an early stage can be much less than the cost of tackling problems, which may later emerge if action hasn’t been taken early enough.”

The seminar attracted guest speakers Michael Little, Director of Social Research at Dartington, and Tony Howell Strategic Director, Children, Young People and Families in Birmingham.

Notes to editors:

1. The two Junior Ministers have responsibility for the co-ordination of policy for children and young people.
2. All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.