Daly, Wayne, McPherson, Colin, and Reck, Lucinda (2004) SPLAT: a model of participation that moves us beyond the rhetoric. In: Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference Contemporary Research Perspectives of Child and Family Welfare Practice. From: 2nd International Conference Contemporary Research Perspectives of Child and Family Welfare Practice, 6-8 August 2004, Mackay, QLD, Australia.

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Abstract

Most of the child welfare conferences held in Australia over the last eighteen months have recognised the importance of participation of children and young people by building into the program participation opportunities. Paying attention to underrepresented voices is considered by some researchers to be one of the current critical issues in child welfare (Kufeldt & McKenzie: 2003, Mason & Gibson: 2004). Children and young people in care have often been the targets of public policy, the subjects of research projects and the focus of practice that is aimed at protecting them but not necessarily involving them. Is there really a preparedness to invite children and young people to have a say? Can they be called upon to assist in the development of tools and resources so their participation is appropriate and effective? Do adults and professionals rather presume to know what is best? Children and young people have much to offer researchers and policy makers by giving their opinions and expressing their views about a range of matters that concern them. This paper will discuss an initiative in the Mackay Whitsunday Region of the Department of Communities that invites children and young people to be part of the community of practice. It will showcase the successful positioning of eight to ten young people within the research, practice and policy agenda, and outline a vision to champion children and young people's participation at a community practice level throughout Australia. It will explore the journey of placing the voice of children and young people at the centre of the child protection system.

Item ID:	14748
Item Type:	Conference Item (Research - E1)
Keywords:	child & young people in care; empowerment; participation
Date Deposited:	11 Nov 2010 23:54
FoR Codes:	16 STUDIES IN HUMAN SOCIETY > 1607 Social Work > 160702 Counselling, Welfare and Community Services @ 100%
SEO Codes:	94 LAW, POLITICS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES > 9401 Community Service (excl. Work) > 940105 Childrens/Youth Services and Childcare @ 100%
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