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BAAF’s chair appointed chief executive of CAFCASS

Issued: 6 June 04

The British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF) has today welcomed the appointment of Anthony Douglas as the new Chief Executive of the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS). Anthony has been the Chair of BAAF since November 2003 and was previously vice-Chair.

Anthony brings a wealth of professional experience from his previous posts as director of social services in Suffolk and Havering, as well as personal experience as an adopted person. Felicity Collier, Chief Executive of BAAF, said ‘Anthony is ideally suited to taking on this role in what has been a difficult time for CAFCASS. His new role complements the continuing leadership he offers BAAF in safeguarding the futures of the 65,000 children in care in England and Wales. I hope that Anthony’s appointment, along with other measures being taken, will lead to real progress for CAFCASS. I look forward to working with him in both his new role and as chair of BAAF.’

BAAF was represented on two of the advisory groups set up to assist the Lord Chancellor's department in the implementation of CAFCASS. It also gave evidence to the House of Commons Select Committee on the Lord Chancellor's Department enquiry into CAFCASS when difficulties arose.

Ends

Contact:

Lucy Handford, Media Assistant, 020 7593 2054

Note

1. The British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF) is the UK's leading adoption and fostering charity.