Service evaluation of a training initiative in participatory practice with children and young people for early help professionals
Journal of Children's Services
ISSN: 1746-6660
Article publication date: 19 November 2024
Issue publication date: 25 November 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to report findings from a service evaluation of a training initiative in participatory practice with children and young people (CYP) for early help (EH) professionals. The training was based on the Lundy model of child participation.
Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire-based survey was undertaken of staff completing the training. Within the sample of professionals surveyed, various work contexts were represented.
Findings
Reported benefits arising from the training included increased understanding of the utility of the tenets of the Lundy model, as well as changes in practice with CYP. Barriers and issues encountered in seeking to work in a participatory way were identified in relation to time for relationship-building, resources and interprofessional and interagency working.
Originality/value
The evaluation findings provide insight into ways training in participatory practice with CYP is experienced by EH professionals. The role of networks of practitioner champions in influencing participatory practice is also addressed, as well as the interface between participatory and relationship-based practice.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This service evaluation received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. The authors wish to extend their thanks to all the professionals who completed the survey questionnaire.
Citation
Martin, B., Fox, J., Archard, P.J., Lucas, S., Susi, K. and O’Reilly, M. (2024), "Service evaluation of a training initiative in participatory practice with children and young people for early help professionals", Journal of Children's Services, Vol. 19 No. 4, pp. 283-297. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCS-06-2023-0034
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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