The Children Act 1989 requires local authorities to appoint Independent Visitors for children and young people who are looked after and have had little or no contact with their parents for a least 12 months. Research carried by the authors shows that a large proportion of local authorities are still not using Indendent Visitors. The study also demonstrates that disabled young people who are linked with an Independent Visitor are benefiting in a variety of ways.
The Children Act 1989 requires local authorities to appoint Independent Visitors for children and young people who are looked after and have had little or no contact with their parents for a least 12 months. Research carried by the authors shows that a large proportion of local authorities are still not using Indendent Visitors. The study also demonstrates that disabled young people who are linked with an Independent Visitor are benefiting in a variety of ways.
Subject terms:
looked after children, physical disabilities, severe learning disabilities, young people, advocacy, children, childrens rights, foster care;
Recent legislation and guidance across education, health, leisure and social services strengthens the expectation that professionals will consult with children and young people about decisions that affect them, including disabled children and young people. The 'Ask Us' project (led by The Children's Society) used a multi-media approach to involve disabled children and young people in influencing policy development on Quality Protects. 'Two Way Street' (led by Triangle and NSPCC) produced a training video for practitioners to build confidence and skills in communicating with disabled children who do not use speech or language.
Recent legislation and guidance across education, health, leisure and social services strengthens the expectation that professionals will consult with children and young people about decisions that affect them, including disabled children and young people. The 'Ask Us' project (led by The Children's Society) used a multi-media approach to involve disabled children and young people in influencing policy development on Quality Protects. 'Two Way Street' (led by Triangle and NSPCC) produced a training video for practitioners to build confidence and skills in communicating with disabled children who do not use speech or language.
Subject terms:
human rights, physical disabilities, policy formulation, training, user participation, user views, young people, change management, children, childrens rights, communication, empowerment, government policy;