The British Association of Social Workers takes issue with Mike Ellis' comments about our response to the Ministry of Justice consultation on openness in family courts (CYP Now, 17-23 October).
What Ellis sadly fails to grasp is that the original consultation last year, which proposed that family courts should be opened up to themedia as a right, was overwhelmingly opposed by children and young people, as well as theirsupporters. This prompted the government to make a remarkable U-turn.
This change of direction should be a celebration by all those who champion the rights of children and young people, rather than be seized upon as an opportunity to attack the social work profession.
Nushra Mansuri, professional officer England, British Association of Social Workers
- No place for private equity
In answer to your recent Vox pop, private equity backing is not best business sense when operating children's services (CYP Now, 17-23 October).
Children's services need to be operated and supported by those with experience and with the authority to make financial decisions and reallocation of funds as required, without the constraints and financial performance demands that sometimes come with private equity backing.
The most successful firms operating children's services are those without such backing, but with the professional leadership and insight into operating children's services toachieve successful outcomes as the priority.
Success in outcomes will lead to success in placements and financial gain, but this can take time and investors are not always willing towait.
David Knowles, director of operations, Ethelbert Children's Services
- Happiness in the spotlight
Emotional wellbeing is vital, as your editorial states (CYP Now, 24-30 October). That's why children's charity NCH has launched Growing Strong, a major campaignto improve the emotional wellbeing of children and young people in the UK.
We are calling on the government to review policy relating to children's emotional wellbeing and commit to its Ten Steps to Growing Strong. Steps include ensuring that every child and young person has access to two structured activities each week and directing parents who are worried about the emotional wellbeing of their children to sources of help and support.
Our children are struggling with the daily pressures of modern life - from exams to worrying about looks and their image, to fears for their safety. They are not getting the emotional support they so desperately need.
The government must commit to tackling this problem to provide future generations with the chance in life they deserve.
Clare Tickell, chief executive, NCH
- The editor, Children & Young People Now, 174 Hammersmith Road, London W6 7JP. Letters should include an address and phone number. All letters may be edited for publication. cypnow@haymarket.com, 020 8267 4706.
