The Platform for Children, officially launched in October 2009, recently held a workshop on Poverty and Social Exclusion. The workshop was held to familiarise the members of the platform with the work and challenges currently being faced in this sector.

A number of presentations were given, following which platform members engaged in a discussion aimed at formulating an action plan. It was evident from the wide-ranging experiences discussed that a number of issues require critical attention.

These include the lack of a coherent legal framework within this sector that focuses on the rights of the child; the need for continuous research, monitoring, and evaluation of currently available services; the need for community-based services and care; the need for more inclusive education; as well as the importance of financial support and human resources for NGOs to collectively reach the necessary goals and targets.

The platform aims to highlight these in more detail during the coming months.

The Platform for Children has grown since its launch, and is currently made up of representatives from Inspire, the People for Change Foundation, Gift of Life, the Malta Unborn Child Movement, Kooperazzjoni Internazzjonali, Equal Partners Foundation, the Daniel Delicata Memorial Association, Central Office Ejjew Għandi, Caritas Malta, Mother and Baby Club within the Cana Movement, Commission on Domestic Violence, Dar tal-Providenza, and Guzeppa De Bono Home.

The Platform for Children continues to welcome expressions of interest from other independent organisations working within the field, in order to strengthen and add value and expertise to the platform in various fields concerning the well-being of children. These are encouraged to contact the Commissioner for Children's Office on 2148 5180 or by e-mail at sharon.a.attard@gov.mt.