A major international conference will bring children’s experts from across the world to Cardiff next week. WorldForum 2008 will consider the best ways of intervening early when children have problems. Delegates will consider how early intervention works in a range of situations including child protection, youth justice, education, child trafficking, work with children with disabilities and many others. Delegates will also consider methods that can prevent problems from arising in the first place.
It is expected that over 300 delegates from across the world will come together to share ideas and research at the conference which is being co-hosted by Children in Wales and the International Forum for Child Welfare.
First Minister, Rhodri Morgan will give an opening address on the first day of the conference, Monday 29 September 2008. Mr Morgan said:
"This prestigious conference is coming to Wales for the first time so it will provide a great opportunity for delegates from around the world to see for themselves how Wales is successfully implementing policy initiatives in the fields of education and child welfare, such as Flying Start for the 0-3 age group, the Foundation Phase for the 3-7 year olds and the introduction of a Children’s Commissioner. It will also be a great opportunity for delegates to share examples of good practice in these fields."
In addition to professionals, the conference will also bring young people from Hungary, Cyprus, Germany and Wales together for a six day programme in which they can highlight their own experiences.
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Notes:
1. WorldForum 2008 will take place at City Hall, Cardiff between 29th September - 1st October 2008. It is being organised by the International Forum for Child Welfare (IFCW) and Children in Wales. Further details are available on the website: www.worldforum2008.org
2. The Young People’s Programme of Activities will run from Sunday 28th September to Friday 3rd October 2008.
3. Children in Wales is the national umbrella organisation for voluntary, statutory and professional organisations and individuals who work with children and young people in Wales. www.childreninwales.org.uk
4. The International Forum for Child Welfare is an international nongovernmental organisation dedicated to the promotion of the rights and well being of children globally. www.ifcw.org
5. Case studies outlining the work that presenters at the conference do are available from Children in Wales