Partnerships working in services for children Essay

Understand partnerships working in services for children and young people Task 2 understands the importance of effective communication and information sharing in services for children and young people. 2.1 – Describe why clear and effective communication between partners is required: Clear and effective communication between partners is required because you have to share information about children’s learning and development, this is particularly important because when sharing information it is crucial that there are no mistakes made as this can then affect the information that has been shared and also you must ensure there are no barriers within the communication; also when working with partners effective communication is also needed so everyone can work towards the same aim and to achieve the best outcomes for the child and the children’s family. Another reason why effective communication between partners is required is because all partners need to plan together to meet children’s learning needs and it is important for all the key people to understand each other. Communication involves sharing information with other partners about the child’s interests and di slikes so they can build on. Lastly many children change their setting so it’s important to get the right information across effectively. 2.2 – Identify policies and procedures in the work setting for information sharing: Polices and procedure give clear messages to staff about their roles and responsibilities and set the boundaries within which they are expected to work. It is also important to remember polices and procedures are there to make sure that the best possible practice is maintained and developed to provide the best care and learning environment for the children or young people. Policy and procedures for sharing information: The data Protection Act 1998 which provides a framework to make sure that information is shared appropriately. The Children Act 2004 which sets out clear expectations for information sharing. The Children’s Plan 2007 which includes information sharing exception’s throughout. Every Child Matters. The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. 2.3- Explain where there maybe conflicts or dilemmas in relation to share information with partners and maintaining confidentiality: If you are being asked to share information with partners but also to maintain confidentiality, conflicts or dilemmas will arise. This can often relate to a matter of safeguarding the children and young people in your care. You should always talk to your manager if you are placed in a situation. Avoid discussing this with other colleagues as much as you may trust them. The best way to disclose information is to: Only share information with relevant people If a child is any kind of danger, information must be shared Children must come first and be communicated with where possible Record all information and actions Always consult with your line manager! 2.4- Describe why it is important to record information clearly, accurately, legibly, and concisely meeting legal requirements: It is important that information is recorded clearly, accurately and concisely and in a way that meets any legal requirements on you or your setting is under. Settings will require different ways to record information like: Observations Assessments Incidents Injury Medical information Concerns about a child Risk assessment Records of meetings Records of conversations There are also different sorts of report. A factual report is a report that gives information like an accident. It should be only written starting with what has actually happened, only facts. When you record information you  have to: Get support from your manager Make notes at meetings so you can write them up later Write clearly with minimal errors Used correct format Keep to the points Store confidentially Do not use children’s names maintain confidentiality Complete as soon as possible Information has to be clear, accurate, legible and concise so that professionals/ parents/carers are able to read and understand what is written clearly, it is a legible requirement for records to be clear and legible. This ensures that any action that needs to be taken is not delayed. 2.5- Identify how communications and records are recorded and securely stored meeting the data protection requirements: There are different ways that communications and records can be made like: Electronic means Memos A communication book A required format, such as incident form These should be stored in a secure place like a computer with a password on it, or in a locked cupboard. Only necessary people should have access to them like staff dealing with medication information to have access to the medical records. 2.6- Explain why and how referrals are made to different agencies: Sometime children may need additional support from outside their setting and its necessary to make a referral. A child can be referred for: A medical condition like hearing impairment A learning need like dyslexia An emotional need, like bereavement or personal loss A physical condition, like brittle bones Multi-agency panels have been set up to support referrals in between settings, usually they: Are made up of different professional Are organised by local authorities Ensure children’s needs are quickly identified Make sure children are referred to the right setting Monitor the provision between settings Ensure that there is a close partnership between settings Include parents in the process The steps for making referrals: Step 1: find out if the child has additional needs by using the CAF checklist. Step 2: discuss the child’s needs using the CAF checklist. Step 3: a decision is made to seek support.