media messages, childcare routines and struggles in filling a DCS
vacancy.
Q. A new youth service colleague wears a niqab. I'm embarrassed to admit it but I have struggled to get to know her as have children who come to sessions. They avoid talking to her and make jokes about her being a spy or a man. What can I do?
First off you need to put a stop to name calling, prejudice and intolerance and welcome this new member of staff. Work with the young people in the same way you would tackle any other issue around difference.
The niqab does offer some challenges and these should be addressed. Ninety per cent of human communication is non-verbal and gleaned from body language. Your new colleague needs to be mindful of this and take some responsibility for overcoming obstacles to communication. For example, that might mean making a greater effort to provide non verbal signs and cues. Help her to find ways of engaging with the young people such as offering insight into why it is worn and what it symbolises.
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