We're running a Cash in the Attic-style event at our youth club to have fun and raise money towards our summer scheme. Most kids have brought bits and bobs given to them by grandparents or parents, but one has donated silver goblets and candlesticks. Should we talk to the family or just ignore it and carry on?
It sounds like you are unsure whether these pieces were donated with the parents' knowledge and I can see why you might want to check things out before going ahead, especially if the items are valuable. It's natural to want to donate the best things and it could be the young people see the activity as some kind of competition.
Do something around authenticity, always an important factor in these antiques programmes. By asking contributors to produce the history of something you are effectively asking them to provide a note from the owner or donor. You could refuse to accept entries without a "certificate" signed by a parent, grandparent or previous owner.
Certificates which explain an item was an unwanted birthday present or found in a skip give them a story as well as helping avoid embarrassment or concern.
Tracie Trimmer-Platman is senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London
Email questions, marked "Experts", to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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