Led by a Consultant Social Worker from Richmond, five students from the University of Bedfordshire took questions from the Prime Minister on their experiences since starting the two year graduate programme in July.

The Prime Minister then went with a newly qualified social worker from the programme to visit a family who were on the verge of legal proceedings when social workers intervened. Now, after a year of working alongside Frontline Participant, Emily, they are in a much stronger position and are no longer working with statutory services.

Dr Louise Grant, Academic Director for the Frontline Programme at the University of Bedfordshire said:

“It is really pleasing that the government and the Prime Minister are taking an active interest in Children and Families Social Work. The Frontline Programme continues to go from strength to strength and the University of Bedfordshire is proud to be playing such a major part in this exciting new development.”

The Frontline Programme recruits, trains and develops outstanding graduates to be children’s social workers and leaders in wider society. The University of Bedfordshire leads the academic element of the programme and its Vice Chancellor, Bill Rammell, added:

“The University of Bedfordshire is at the forefront of innovative practice in social work higher education and we are delighted to be involved in delivering the Frontline Programme, which is making a major contribution to social work education and having a positive impact in support of vulnerable children.”