How often do we really stop and count our blessings and take the time to reflect that, when all things are considered, we live in a predominantly peaceful, bountiful and, indeed, beautiful county?

Do we truly appreciate its natural magnificence and historical significance? Do we compare and contrast the wealth of opportunity offered in towns and villages throughout this fair county? Do we consider the countless ways, the efforts of others who contribute to our lives, from the teachers and support staff in our schools, the care we receive from our dedicated health workers, doctors, nurses paramedics, to those that specialise in supporting the elderly and those with physical and psychological challenges?

Then there are all the infrastructural dimensions, the refuge collectors, the sewer workers and the road menders and, of course, the fire and police services that are called upon to potentially risk life and limb, to ensure the safety of us all.

Then there are the blessings of the volunteers, from all walks of life, working in the charity sector dedicating their efforts to supporting the often less able and vulnerable, like the homeless and the poor.

Do we remember the countless support groups, like Victim Support, Samaritans and others or the myriad of sports and recreational groups that allow our young and old alike, a positive and healthy opportunity to be part of the community? Of course we must not forget our parish, town and county councillors, and the army of council officers who support them, in their often thankless task No doubt I have overlooked many significant individuals and organisations that deserve mention and thanks, and I apologise for the oversight, and maybe you can take the time to put them on your blessings list, and thank them yourself.

I would like to take this opportunity in highlighting the life-changing contribution of the unsung heroes whose dedication and commitment often goes unnoticed or unheralded, and to those brave souls who commit their endeavours to the support, protection of our children and families involved in all aspects of social services.

Our work at Kandu allows us a daily insight to the many hardships and challenges that the professionals and families face, the often heart-wrenching stories that, left unchecked, would surely commit those involved to a truly desperate and depressing existence.

Social services only ever seem to get noticed with the rare but regrettable instances of neglect and oversight, such as in the horrific cases of Victoria Climbie and Baby P, names that stand out in the memory because of the truly shocking jolt they make to society’s consciousness. They are startling reminders of the importance and need for well-resourced and appreciated social work professionals.

Part of our work is training and supporting social work students from the University of the West of England. It is an aspect we take very seriously as the students will be entering into one of the most demanding and least forgiving areas of public work.

Coupled with our daily contact with other established divisions of the social service spectrum, such as the Virtual School team who work tirelessly to ensure looked after young people receive the best education and support possible, in order to try and make up past shortfalls, they take this on with enthusiasm and good humour, often working unsociable hours to ensure their charges get the best help.

The other essential pieces of the jigsaw are the foster carers and families, who enable the young people to have a supportive, loving, home environment, in which to move on from their unfortunate beginnings and have a better chance of building, a happier future. Blessings indeed!