Practice Solutions chief executive Sarah Day tells us about the launch of the Parents Advocacy Network (PAN) Cymru and how they’re hoping to empower more families going through the safeguarding process.
On the 29 January, I was privileged to host the launch of PAN Cymru at Margam Park. It was great to see so many practitioners and parents come together to recognise the work of PAN so far and set out the vision for the future.
PAN was originally set up by Neath Port Talbot County Council, in collaboration with their neighbouring authority, Swansea. With a focus on parent and peer advocacy, they run Stronger Together Family cafes which bring together parents and professionals who are all involved in the child protection process.
What makes these sessions different is attendees leave their identity and job title at the door. Everyone is given equal status and opportunity to contribute to conversations about parenthood.
The launch day was really interesting, with a lot of parents talking about their own experiences and how social services became involved. What was clear is how PAN gave parents the space to develop confidence, knowledge and networks that they could rely on beyond service provision alone.
The sessions also help social workers to see beyond their professions and look at the bigger picture, recognising how far parents can go if you give them the right support.
The day was started with the announcement from Dawn Bowden, Minister for Children and Social Care, that the Welsh Government will support PAN with their work on a national basis. I was touched when I heard the cheers in the room, because it showed how much people care about the process and see the value of what advocacy can do.
It was a pleasure to be a small part of the day, and I can’t wait to see the difference PAN Cymru will make to families and professionals across Wales in the coming year.
