We are reviewing our learning difficulties and disabilities (LDD) policy and I've been asked to write our "vision". Any pointers?
Peter Lewis: The most important thing is to keep it brief and keep it simple. You want the widest possible audience to read and understand this. You will need to include what you want to do, how you will do it and the core values you will apply.
Be clear what you mean by "inclusion". For me, it is not about trying to include every child in a mainstream setting. Instead, it is about the child being in the right place at the right time, so they can make the most of their potential and be included in learning.
If you are going to try to ensure provision within your local authority area, then say so. But be clear about where this might not be possible. When it comes to values, make it clear this is about getting it right for the child, not the parent. Access to a good education is a basic human right - as is the right to family life. Sometimes you may need to strike a balance.
Peter Lewis is a freelance providing interim local authority children's services leadership, and a former DCS in Haringey
I'm working with a young man who has complex issues. His parents are happy to talk to me but are refusing to engage with other agencies, which means I'm also supporting them. I worry this could compromise my relationships with both parties. How do I manage this?
Jeanie Lynch: The young man should be your priority. However, he obviously exists within a wider family environment where there are other support needs and these must be addressed too. Do you know why his parents will not engage with other agencies? Are they worried they may be judged or blamed? Talk to them separately, explaining the boundaries of your role and getting them to consider who else may be able to help.
This family may benefit from the Common Assessment Framework process, designed to consider the needs of whole families and bring together a range of professionals to help draw up and monitor a support plan.
Another option would be to include a family support worker in the mix. Perhaps your agency already has a family support team you could work with. If not, consider making a referral to a local family support service.
Jeanie Lynch works for Barnardo's and has 25 years' experience of working with vulnerable children and families
Should we sing to babies when they come to nursery?
June O'Sullivan: There is a growing body of evidence of the benefits of mums and dads singing to babies and there is no reason not to sing to babies at nursery. Singing to a baby is an intimate and soothing activity for both adult and child, and helps build close relationships and boost communication.
Sometimes staff feel they must always be doing something "active" with babies, but quiet time is just as important. Babies love nursery rhymes, lullabies and traditional songs, and some would say these are children's first language lessons. Singing songs involves children listening to pitch, words and tone. Lullabies are quiet and gentle, while action songs provide opportunities for joining in such as clapping along and copying gestures.
It is vital to involve parents so they also understand the value of singing to their babies. Tell them not to worry if they think they "can't sing" or are "tone deaf" - it simply doesn't matter.
June O'Sullivan is chief executive of the childcare charity and social enterprise, the London Early Years Foundation
Young people have been making bags, T-shirts and jewellery, and selling them at fetes and fairs to raise money for youth club activities. However, one of our trustees has said we need to pay VAT on these products and we're not sure what to do. Any advice?
Tracie Trimmer-Platman: This sounds like a brilliant entrepreneurial project that has clearly benefited the young people in all kinds of ways. In the current climate, raising funds is not only essential but very challenging.
So if you have found a model that works, then it may be worth sharing it with others.
Small-scale enterprises with a limited income do not always incur VAT, but maybe you have reached a point where VAT is a factor. Your charity's accountant or treasurer should be able to advise you on this. It does not mean you have to stop, but you may need to set up as a small business depending on your turnover. This would be on a small scale, similar to the charity shops hosted by many major voluntary organisations. It may even work out better for you if you are able to claim back gift aid.
Tracie Trimmer-Platman is senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London
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