Independent Family Returns Panel welcomes new chair
Helen Chamberlain has been appointed as substantive chair of the Independent Family Returns Panel (IFRP).
The IFRP is an expert committee, sponsored by the Home Office, that provides independent advice to the department on how best to safeguard children’s welfare during a family’s enforced return.
Helen Chamberlain was appointed interim chair in May 2020 and has been a member since August 2018.
Her previous roles have included Chief Superintendent and Head of Public Protection at Nottinghamshire Police.
Helen Chamberlain, Chair of the IFRP, said:
I’m delighted and honoured to have been permanently appointed as chair of the Independent Family Returns Panel.
We do a vital job in safeguarding children during a family’s return, and I look forward to continuing to provide advice on how best to ensure welfare needs are met.
The appointment follows the expiry of Paul Greenhalgh’s three year tenure as chair of the IFRP.