SCCYP's Policy Priority Consultation Report 2005-2006: Promoting Proportionate Protection

To assist in the selection of the policy priorities, Scotland’s first Commissioner for Children and Young People (SCCYP), Kathleen Marshall, recently chose to carry out two consultations: one with children and young people; and another with the organisations working with and for them.

The first consultation was the biggest-ever poll of children and young people in Scotland, with 16,000 votes being cast. The issue children and young people most wanted the Commissioner to work on was ‘Things To Do’ - activities that are affordable and accessible to all, and that are designed with the help of young people themselves in co-operation with trusted adults.

In the second consultation, organisations working with and for children and young people were asked their opinion on what should be the Commissioner’s policy priorities. The theme "Promoting Proportionate Protection" received a good level of support from all consulted organisations and has been chosen as SCCYP's policy priority for the next two years.

"Promoting Proportionate Protection" looks at the issue of over-protection of children and young people, as many respondents stressed the need to balance protection with fun, adventure and healthy relationships. It was suggested by some that the current systems of child protection do not command confidence and there was an impression that they were more about agency and adult protection than child protection. Several examples were given of situations in which the balance between protection and appropriate risk or support was wrong:

• Play opportunities and outdoor experiences are being curtailed
• Not enough attention is given to the positive benefits of risk and challenge
• Vetting/Disclosure process are cumbersome and putting people off working with children and young people
• There is a shortage of people willing to work with children and young people because of fears of allegations

Indeed, the majority of respondents mentioned missed opportunities for play and adventure for children, and imbalance between risk and challenge. “In the UK, it now seems to be normal to over-protect children. We deny many children the opportunities offered by outings, adventure play and outdoor activities.” (National Playbus Association).

Respondents also mentioned problems occurring as a result of current child protection and vetting systems and the need for a more balanced approach to health and safety issues. A more proportionate response to physical contact was also repeatedly raised by respondents from all sectors. “We are increasingly aware of the potential for well-meaning regulations to effectively work against the best interests of the child or young person.” (Angus Council)

Organisations consulted stressed that this area had been unaddressed so far and needed research and evaluation. Responses suggest that the Commissioner could be the most suitable person to raise the issues above and address them effectively. “The Children’s Commissioner could make a significant contribution to challenging this pervasive problem which is seriously affecting the quality of life of many children, and undermining the morale and enthusiasm of staff to provide normal, caring and fun activities.” (Scottish Institute for Residential Child Care)

Taking the results of both consultations, SCCYP is developing an Action Plan for 2006-2008 – entitled ‘Safe, Active, Happy’. Kathleen Marshall said: “There are common themes in both priorities so taking these two things together is the natural way to progress my work. Firstly, we will specifically identify issues of prime concern, along with examples of good practice. Secondly we will explore ways to address the problem areas. Thirdly we will commission research to track and evaluate the difference our work is making."

Further information

• SCCYP's Action Plan
• SCCYP's Policy Priority Consultation report
• SCCYP's website