An article examined the nature of collective participation (engagement by children and young people that enabled them to influence the initiation or direction of a project) in child welfare settings, drawing on four case studies from Wales, France, and Finland. It said that the case studies highlighted elements that supported children's participation (such as communicative spaces, time, money, knowledge, social position, attitudes, social networks, institutional commitment, equipment, food, and transport), as well as challenges related to generational barriers and the distribution of resources. The article proposed a model (or 'lattice of participation') for conceptualizing collective engagement in participatory projects.

Source: Cath Larkins, Johanna Kiili, and Kati Palsanen, 'A lattice of participation: reflecting on examples of children's and young people's collective engagement in influencing social welfare policies and practices', European Journal of Social Work, Volume 17 Issue 5

Links: Abstract

Date: 2014-Sep

A think-tank report examined the experiences and needs of young people leaving care in England, based on a survey with 100 care leavers and consultation with those working with them. The report noted that there had been significant progress made in addressing the needs of young people, but that much of the resulting support had bypassed those in most need. It said that many care leavers found it difficult to live independently without support, and noted the loneliness and isolation felt by many. The report made recommendations: for better support with independent living; for better support for those in, or seeking, work; and for addressing issues such as isolation.

Source: Caitlin Devereux, Survival of the Fittest? Improving life chances for care leavers, Centre for Social Justice

Links: Report | Summary

Date: 2014-Jan