ESCB Introducing... Helen Hever – Essex FA

Hi Helen, tell us about yourself

Helen Hever - Essex FA

My name is Helen Hever and I work for the Essex FA. I enjoy learning and developing new skills as well as returning something back to society.

By volunteering as one of the first two Lay Members for the Essex Safeguarding Children Board, I feel I am continuing to develop my skills; whilst bringing vast experience gained in both employment and volunteering.

Why is safeguarding important to you?

I have recognised for a long time now that I am committed to the safeguarding of young people and vulnerable adults. This has developed into a much deeper passion having worked for the Probation Service for nearly fourteen years and now working with volunteers and young people in football. Both experiences have shown how agencies and partners can be successful in working together but also highlight the gaps.

From my experience volunteers have a limited knowledge of the local safeguarding arrangements and how they fit into the larger picture of safeguarding. I would like to use my experience as a lay member on the Essex Safeguarding Children Board to drive an improvement in safeguarding awareness among volunteers.


What do you hope to achieve with ESCB?

Ultimately, I want to have a positive impact on the lives of children and young people. Initially I will learn how the Board operates and after gaining a better understanding I want to be proactive in asking questions as well as supporting improved practice.

The work of the Safeguarding Boards is scrutinised by the media – after some very sad cases reported both nationally and locally, I want to make sure that ESCB is adopting the best methods and reviews its delivery, making changes where appropriate.


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