THE most vulnerable residents in Sandwell were the beneficiaries of a summit where 50 organisations agreed to work together to protect them.

Organised by West Midlands Fire Service, the Connecting People - Changing Lives event last Thursday, brought together professionals

who are in regular contact with vulnerable children, adults and families so they could work together better.

The six-hour event was held in in conjunction with Sandwell Council created a "market place" where the various agencies and professionals could demonstrate their skills.

Neil Griffiths, WMFS Group Commander for Black Country South, said: “We had an amazing response and will had double the number of exhibitors we originally expected.

“There are hundreds of people dedicated to improving the safety, health and wellbeing of vulnerable people in Sandwell, but they rarely get the chance to meet at one event like this.

"They found out about the services offered by partner organisations, and new ways of referring their clients for valuable help and support.

He added: “Whether it’s our own vulnerable persons officers, carers, nurses or members of housing and neighbourhood teams, they’ll all be represented and learning more about how we can work together.”

Sandwell deputy mayor Councillor Barbara Price attended the event at West Bromwich Town Hall as did Cradley Heath and Old Hill Councillor Anne Shackleton who is also a member of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.

Organisations which attending included drug rehabilitation organisation Swanswell, Sandwellbeing, Kaleidescope, CARES, Health Through Warmth, Women’s Aid, Marbles, Brushstrokes, Lifework, Sandwell Information Service, Action for Children, Sandwell Advocacy, Age UK, NHS Patient Experience Sandwell and West Midlands Police.