Ref. 25430-77SOCIAL workers in Swindon network to such an extent that they are confident that any sexual predator on children, such as Ian Huntley, would not slip through the net.

Keith Skerman, the head of Social Services, said that it was important not to give away too many secrets of the child-protection operation.

However, he did reveal that there was a constant cross-sharing of information with all relevant agencies, not only within the borough but nationwide.

"We work very closely with the police," he said.

"If someone is under investigation and he moves, then he is tracked. We don't allow the trail to go cold just because someone has moved on.

"The police, of course, are responsible for criminal intelligence, but all information is shared on a need-to-know basis."

Daily social workers in Swindon are liaising with their counterparts in neighbouring authorities and much further afield.

If someone suddenly disappears the file is not closed just because of that. Such an action is likely to be treated as a suspicious circumstance and the investigation goes up a gear rather than being halted.

"I am very confident that no obstacle would stand in our way of seeing an investigation right through to the bitter end," added Mr Skerman.

"The level of co-operation is truly amazing in Swindon and something we can be proud of, without being complacent.

"Complacency is something we are constantly guarding against, but that's when something could go wrong."

Under the Government's green paper, 'Every Child Matters', the methods now employed in Swindon will become law.

"But we're not waiting for that," said Mr. Skerman.

Swindon is ahead of the game and intends to stay there, for the sake of the young ones.