“A lack of knowledge about different cultures within minority communities can be a barrier to understanding what is happening to the children. Inquiry reports and research have highlighted that stereotyping of families from different backgrounds, linked with difficulties in attributing the correct meaning to what parents say, may have a negative impact on social work assessments and judgements.”
– (Dutt and Phillips 2000)
Judian M Chungong, CEO and Service Lead Consultant
I am a migrant from Africa and hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Lancaster. I currently serve as Director of Cross-Cultural Services, specialising in independent social work with a strong focus on cross-cultural practice.
With over 18 years of experience across multiple Local Authorities teams including Assessment, Care Management, Court, Independent Fostering Review, and Adoption services, I bring extensive expertise in assessments and court work, as well as leadership experience as a team manager.
My work is centred on bridging the gap between families and services, ensuring assessments are fair, balanced, and accurately reflect the communities we support, particularly for families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds.
My strength lies in blending cultural awareness with safeguarding, respecting families’ voices and traditions while ensuring child protection. I am committed to helping families access services that support safe parenting practices consistent with UK standards.
I am guided by a commitment to serve others with compassion, integrity, and understanding. My experiences have strengthened my belief in the value of empathy, resilience, and purposeful action. Spiritually, I am motivated by principles of faith, hope, and service, which inspire me to advocate for vulnerable individuals and foster inclusive, supportive communities.
I strive to serve others with compassion, integrity, and understanding. My experiences reinforce my belief in empathy, resilience, and purposeful action. Guided by faith, hope, and service, I advocate for vulnerable individuals and support inclusive communities.
Key highlights:
- Recognised for producing clear, balanced, and culturally informed reports valued by courts and local authorities.
- Consulted on complex safeguarding cases involving migrant families, parenting practices, physical chastisement, witchcraft beliefs, forced marriage, FGM, and migration-related safeguarding challenges.
- Delivered training and mentorship to social workers on cultural awareness, anti-bias practice, and cross-cultural engagement.