New safeguarding lead to help children and vulnerable adults

Saturday 24 February 2024

A new Chair has been appointed for the pan-island Children and Adult Safeguarding Partnership – dedicating at least 27 days per year to working in Jersey.

David Goosey, who took up the role late last month, will work across Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney to strengthen safeguarding policies and procedures to help protect children and vulnerable adults from harm.

Mr Goosey is currently the chair of Berkshire West Safeguarding Children Partnership, Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board and an Independent Scrutineer for Lewisham Safeguarding Children Partnership and North and West Northamptonshire Safeguarding Children Partnership.

He has taken over from Sarah Elliott, and has been employed on a two-year contract, which will be reviewed after six months.

Mr Goosey said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as the Pan-Island Independent Chair for Children and Adults Safeguarding Boards.

"Protecting children and adults at risk from harm is a fundamental requirement for states in the 21st century and I’m looking forward to working across the Channel Islands to ensure safeguarding arrangements are as effective as possible."

He was taken on following an appointments process overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission, which included a panel of executive officers from Jersey and Guernsey. 

The Government said Mr Goosey will dedicate at least 27 days per year to working in each island.

Home Affairs Minister Mary Le Hegarat said: “On behalf of the Council Of Ministers, I am pleased to welcome someone of David’s calibre and experience to continue this work.

"Safeguarding both children and adults is of the greatest importance and it is essential this is reflected at the highest levels across the islands.

“Such a position requires a person with exceptional skills in this area and David’s extensive experience makes him the ideal candidate ensure this work has the focus it needs. 

"There must be a continued commitment to ensuring the interests and voices of children, young people and adults who are potentially at risk are represented at the highest levels is essential.”