Children, Seniors and Social Development
August 17, 2016
Enhanced Service Delivery Focus of New Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development
The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of providing enhanced service delivery to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians through all stages of life. The new Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development made up of the former Departments of Child, Youth and Family Services, and Seniors, Wellness and Social Development will be responsive to the needs of all residents and place a strong focus on the well-being of individuals.
"Over the past eight months I have become quite familiar with the work of both departments and I have seen clearly how there are synergies and areas where there are service overlaps. By creating the new Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development residents will benefit from access to a wide range of services from a department which is family-focused with a concentration towards nurturing strong, healthy communities. This will allow our staff to closely follow individuals and families throughout their lives to ensure that the Provincial Government is remaining responsive to their needs."
- The Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
Key areas of the new departmental mandate include:
- Support for seniors;
- Child protection services;
- Youth corrections;
- Management of adoption programs;
- Development of healthy living programs;
- Oversight of provincial recreation and sport programs;
- Oversight of the Disability Policy Office; and
- Initiatives to foster poverty reduction.
"The mandate of this new department is broad, but includes some of the most important functions undertaken by government for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. I look forward to the coming together of both teams, as we continue to support key wellness and protection initiatives, and collaborate closely with stakeholders to build upon the work being carried out in our communities."
- Minister Gambin-Walsh
Websites as well as documentation for both departments will be changed to reflect the new department name.
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Media contacts:
|
Melony O'Neill
Director of Communications (Children and Youth) Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development 709-729-5148, 689-0928 melonyoneill@gov.nl.ca |
Roger Scaplen
Director of Communications (Seniors and Wellness) Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development 709-729-0928, 697-5267 rogerscaplen@gov.nl.ca |
2016 08 17 3:20 p.m.