Participation and engagement
Tips, traps and pitfalls of effective participation
There is no 'right' way to introduce participation. The starting points for children, young people, and parents/carers are different in each case, based upon what they want and the type of service offered. The same can apply to the adults who work with children, young people and their families. Participation is not created simply by modifying existing structures - it entails a change of attitude and outlook.
Most services in some way are expected to support and develop participation. However, they are afraid that what they do will be seen as ‘tokenistic’ and false by both their users and other organisations. All organisations have to start somewhere and in this section, we hope to try and point you in the right direction by giving you some general guidelines to follow and dismiss some of the myths.
Participation is based upon the ability and the belief in the intelligence and worth of children, young people and their families
Decision-making has to be real for those involved.
The overall aim of those involved must be clear and objectives must be clearly set. Agreed boundaries are a prerequisite of successful participation.
(Adapted from Foster, 1981)
