It is a UK federation of five existing organisations, including the Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC). The other bodies are Skills for Care, the Care Council for Wales, the Scottish Social Services Council and the Northern Ireland Social Care Council.
Estelle Morris, chair of CWDC, said, 'The launch of Skills for Care and Development marks an exciting time for the sector and we look forward to working with our key partners to create a world-class workforce that truly puts the child at the centre of all services.'
The CWDC has also agreed its key agenda for 2006 with its board and the DfES. Its priorities include responding to the Children's Workforce Strategy, working with the TDA and the DfES on developing the role of the 'early years professional' and working with the Children's Workforce Network to review the National Occupational Standards and the development of the Integrated Qualifications Framework.