Kent training officer scoops national award

A Kent child protection trainer has scooped a national award for her work helping to protect and safeguard young people in the county.

The accolade was launched by the NSPCC and BASPCAN to celebrate excellence within safeguarding and inspire trainers to further raise child protection training standards.

It went to Sue Gower MBE from Bexley, who works as a programme development officer for the Kent Safeguarding Children Board (KSCB).

Sue Gower MBE

The Board works to protect and safeguard young people in the county. It is formed of multiple agencies including Kent County Council, Kent Police, NHS England and the National Probation service.

As part of its remit to promote the welfare of children it provides comprehensive free training helping staff spot signs of abuse and neglect and combat new emerging threats.

Willma King, head of training for the NSPCCC said: “We had over a hundred fantastic nominations, where we saw numerous examples of how trainers have made a real difference.

“Not only is she an excellent ambassador for safeguarding; she demonstrates a credible use of personal and professional experience with her training being regularly reviewed.  She has even produced a film with NHS England for the successful training of GPs. All this is done whilst keeping the children’s voice at the forefront”.

Sue Gower spoke of her delight. She said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have won this award and very pleased that the high quality multi-agency training provided by Kent Safeguarding Children Board has been nationally recognised – it’s something for KCC and partner organisations to be proud of.”

Mark Janaway, programme and performance manager for KSCB, said: “Since I asked Sue to develop the Board’s training program I have watched with great pride as she has built and developed a multi-agency offer and established a college of trainers to deliver that offer.

“The number of people attending face to face training and our E-learning has steadily increased and more than 140 sessions are delivered to our multi-agency partners each year.

Gill Rigg, the Board’s Independent Chair, added: “I was delighted to hear of Sue’s success and congratulate her, KSCB is very lucky to have her as our trainer and she is much valued.”

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