How to
For children and young people to be genuinely involved in decision-making
and planning it is essential that their participation is carried out in
a way that enables them to fully understand the subject in question and
to feel comfortable in giving their views.
This section provides basic guidelines for anyone involved in participation
work with children and young people and is informed by work carried out
by Children in Scotland through the Citizenship
in Practice project and in particular by the views of children and
young people themselves. It also offers ideas for making participation
interesting and fun through a range of methods
that have been evaluated by children and young people.
For more information
about methods see resources / links page.
Key principles for effective participation
Allow enough time
Many children and young people (particularly those with disabilities)
have little experience of making decisions and lack confidence in expressing
their views. It is therefore important to allow time for children and
young people to develop their understanding of choice and decision making
and to become comfortable and relaxed with the person facilitating their
involvement.
Involvement should be an ongoing process instead of a one off eventIt
is essential that children and young people engage with the issue being
discussed so that they can develop their views and give a considered response.
Methods must allow children and young people to express their
views freely without being 'put on the spot'
Children and young people are not always confident about giving their
opinions so methods should be designed to encourage their participation
without making anyone feel forced to contribute.
Methods of involvement must be accessible to all taking part and
in particular must respond to any communication needs
Involving children and young people in decisions and planning requires
preparation to ensure that it is pitched at the right level for those
involved. It is also essential that children and young people with communication
difficulties are equally able to take part. It is often helpful to discuss
this with those who know the children and young people well e.g. teachers
or speech therapists.
A wide range of children and young people should have the opportunity
to participate
It is important to involve a broad range of children and young people.
Too often those who are more difficult to reach or who have communication
difficulties do not have their views sought or listened to.
Ensure views are those of children and young people
Children and young people often feel most confident when they are with
someone they know and those with complex communication needs may rely
on an adult they know well to support them in giving their views. However
care must be taken to ensure that the views expressed are genuinely those
of the child or young person and are not influenced or misinterpreted
by an adult.
Be aware of sensitivities
Some children and young people may find certain issues difficult to talk
about and it is vital that they are not put under pressure to do so. All
children and young people should be made aware that they do not have to
contribute and can opt out at any point.
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Methods of participation
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