New Head of Children and Young People Services
25.08.2006
Neath Port Talbot Council's new Head of Children and Young People Services takes up her post immediately.
Head of CHildren & Young People Services
Julie Rzezniczek has been appointed to lead the county borough's children and young people services.
Her responsibilities will include leading on child protection, looked after children, fostering and adoption. Working towards closer relationships with schools and health agencies to deliver a more integrated service for children and families is also a priority.
Julie is currently a principal officer in the assessment and case management service. Her career has seen her working in both the voluntary and statutory sector.
She has worked in social services for fourteen years, coming to Neath Port Talbot twelve years ago as a child protection social worker, being promoted to team manager of the child care disability team in 2000.
Julie has been heavily involved in implementing major new legislation and her contribution to Neath Port Talbot's child disability service has led to the child disability service experiencing a successful inspection by the Social Services Inspectorate of Wales.
She has also led the practical implementation of the integrated children's system over the last two years.
Speaking after her appointment, Julie said, "I am very pleased to have the opportunity to lead and promote the continuation of the positive work that is undertaken by children and young people services in Neath Port Talbot, as well as contributing to the developing agenda for partnership work across the authority.
"Together with our partners agencies we need to work on building strong families and better outcomes for children and young people."
Chief Executive of Neath Port Talbot Council, Ken Sawyers, added, "I am delighted that Julie has been successful in her appointment as Head of Children Services.
"The council is committed to ensuring that all children and young people are offered services that protect their health and well being.
"Under Julie's leadership, I am confident we can improve the services and life chances of children, young people and their families.
"We want to ensure a good start in life and provide a secure place for children and young people in our communities and support parents and carers."