In September 2003 the UK Government published a Green Paper, 'Every Child Matters', followed by the Children Act in March 2004.

The purpose of these initiatives was to reshape the way children's services are delivered in order to ensure a co-ordinated approach is taken at every level. The ultimate aim is to improve outcomes for all children. National research identified five outcomes that children agree are important:

• Being Healthy;
• Staying Safe;
• Enjoying and Achieving;
• Making a positive contribution;
• Economic well being.

The Children Act 2004 gave new duties and powers to District Councils including the duty to co-operate with children's services authorities to improve children's wellbeing.

In 2003, in order to promote co-operation between the authority and partner agencies the Maldon District Children's and Young People's Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) was formed, and an action plan agreed.

This document is intended to build upon, and strengthen, the joint working already underway in the District.