demands by the needy.

Unemployment, homelessness and family problems have meant a heavier workload since the 1970s and the recession over the past two years has meant more pressure on the Ministry to deliver services.

And Health and Social Services Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness believes the present set up has worked well under the strain.

But he stressed the importance of re-direction and revitalisation of the system so it is in tune with modern day requirements. The new plan is now before Cabinet for final approval.

It includes action for unemployment, the homeless, the penal system, family support and prevention of abuse.

Speaking at the Bermuda Conference of Seventh Day Adventist, Mr. Edness said: "This past year was a significant one for Bermuda's social services. It was a year where we needed to respond aggressively to the hardships created by the economic recession.

"At the same time we developed a revitalised and current approach to the delivery of services. This approach, embodied in a new organisational strategy, will form the blueprint for the development and delivery of Bermuda's social services for the future.

"Government, the private sector, and the community at large have all recognised the serious issues faced by Bermuda's social services and we have been gratified by the positive response that was, and is, evident as we cope with an unprecedented demand on some services and formulate a strategy for the future.'' The Minister said that since the 1970s, Bermuda's social services have experienced rapid growth and diversification to meet the needs of Bermudians.

Mr. Edness said: "The delivery of an increasingly more complex suite of services had become more difficult to manage.

"We had questions about the relevance of some services and recognised that we need to expand others.

"Demand for services had consistently outgrown staff resources which led to client complaints, public concern for inadequate performance and, on occasion, negative reports in the media.

"Whether all of the criticism was justified or not, all agreed that a revitalised approach for Bermuda's social services was indicated.

'' Mr. Edness said that he was reasonably satisfied that headway had been made in respect to the future.

But he revealed a number of current challenges to combat the impact of the recession.

Action includes ensuring that basic necessities are found for the growing numbers of unemployed during the recession.

Mr. Edness said that the issue of the homeless has been heightened and affordable housing demands need to be confronted.

His Ministry will also be looking at training law-breakers with worthwhile skills so they do not continually offend.

He said: "We intend to address these issues but we do not intend to address them alone.

"One thing we have been reminded of during this difficult period is the need for community participation and partnership with community as these problems are addressed and resolved.'' Mr. Edness emphasised the work of the voluntary sector and praised the work of the Seventh Day Adventists in the community.