The incoming ‘New Labour’ government in Britain in 1997 promoted educational attainment as its top policy priority. But by 2003 this priority had a wider focus on improving outcomes for all children – in terms of their health, safety and general well-being, as well as education and training for work. The lecture will describe the wide programme of policy initiatives introduced by the Labour government to improve children’s lives, and the changes made by the Coalition Government from May 2010. It will examine how these have impacted on local authorities, schools and other services for children. The session will also encourage students to relate the above to social policy in Japan. How do policies shape the way that services are provided to children and families? The session will be arranged in three sections: 1. Integrating children’s services - national policy - role and experience of Local Authorities (LAs) - influencing practice of professionals working with children 2. Childcare, parenting and provision - expansion of childcare through legislation - children’s centres - extended schools 3. Child protection and vulnerable children - child abuse - vulnerable groups - children in poverty - children in care - disabled children - children in trouble with the la
