Archived Reports
In this section you will find archived reports which may be of interest in respect of your work with young people who are disengaged or disaffected from school. Some of these links may be out-dated, if so please email info@pinscotland.org and report the bad links - thanks!
- Behaviour
- Schools
- Families
- Additional support
- Young people looked after
- Mental health
- Substance misuse
- Children’s services
- Young people’s voices
Behaviour
In this section you will find reports into young people, challenging behaviour and recommendations for policy and practice.
Rewarding young people for pro-social behaviour
There is growing recognition that young people are often unfairly demonised in current debates about anti-social behaviour. This study looks at two projects in Bradford and York that aimed to promote and reward the positive contributions young people could make to their communities.
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Mapping the alternatives to permanent exclusion
This study investigates the programmes provided for young people permanently excluded, or at risk of permanent exclusion from school.
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School exclusions: Learning partnerships outside mainstream education
This study describes how mentors and teachers work with students who have been permanently excluded from school, taking into account poverty and multiple disadvantage.
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Working Together to Improve School Discipline: Discipline Stakeholder Group Joint Action Plan
The Scottish Government has published an action plan for discipline in schools. The plan has been agreed by the Discipline Stakeholder Group (DSG), made up of the Scottish Government, teaching unions (EIS, SSTA, HAS, AHDS, NASUWT, and PAT), the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland, General Teaching Council for Scotland, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, and advised by HMIE.
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Exclusions from School 2005/06
This document contains analysis of the exclusions data for 2005/06. Information relates to local authority schools only. Exclusions include both temporary exclusions and pupils removed from the register.
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A Climate for Learning – A Review of the Implementation of the ‘Better Behaviour – Better Learning’ Report
This report evaluates the progress made by schools and authorities since the Ministerial Task Group, Better Behaviour - Better Learning, reported in July 2001. (HMIe 2005)
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Better Behaviour – Better Learning: Report of the Discipline Task Group
Report from a SEED task group that investigated indiscipline in schools, and various approaches to prevent it and deal with incidents. It includes recommendations for policy, guidance and practice. (SEED 2001)
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Education Appeal Committees: Proposals for Reform: Consultation Analysis Report
Education Appeal Committees (EACs) hear appeals from parents (and young people in certain circumstances) against a local authority's decision to refuse a placing request, or to exclude a child from school. The consultation outlined the Scottish Government's proposals to improve the EAC system, and asked for views on the proposals and on the EAC system generally.
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Better Behaviour in Scottish Schools
The aim of this report is to provide clear and robust information on the nature and extent of behaviour (including positive behaviour) in publicly funded schools in Scotland. (SEED 2006)
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Early intervention can reduce the risk and negative effects of truancy and school exclusion
New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) has recommended the work of fsu Scotland in tackling school exclusion and truancy. (NPC 2005)
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Better Behaviour in Scottish Schools – Policy Update 2004
This policy update follows the Discipline Task Group's 'Better Behaviour, Better Learning' and provides information about progress on developmental work to address problems of indiscipline and violent behaviour, such as behaviour management, peer support and mediation, and engaging with parents. (SEED 2004)
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Statistics Publication Notice: Education Series: Attendance and Absence in Scottish Schools 2004/2005
Results of pupil attendance and absence for session 2004/05
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Exclusions from School 2003/04
This document is a report on statistics. (SEED 2005)
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Statistics Publication Notice: Education Series: Children Educated Outwith School and Pupil Projections, 2005
National statistics: Results for 2004/05 for children educated outwith school and pupil projections, 2005.
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NCH: Tackling Anti Social Behaviour – have we got it right?
This report discusses the main measures used to tackle anti-social behaviour and their impact. It also describes the work NCH does to prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour.
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Schools
In this section you will find reports highlighting the Scottish Government’s vision of the future of Scotland’s Education and also evaluations of recent school developments.
The Task Ahead: Youth Work and Schools
In November 2007, YMCA hosted a national conference in Edinburgh inviting selected stakeholders who play a key role in the development of Youth Work and Schools. This document provides a summary of the main issues emerging from the conference and outlines the task ahead in developing Youth Work and Schools.
Education and Child Poverty: A literature review
This literature review explores how education can contribute to ending child poverty..
Happy, safe and achieving their potential: a standard of support for children and young people in Scottish schools
Report of the National Review of Guidance, providing a framework for the development of personal support in Scottish schools.
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Tackling low educational achievement
Tens of thousands of students in England leave school every year aged 16 with no or very limited qualifications. This research aims to understand the large number of factors associated with low achievement.
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Report on the Implementation of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 HMIe
Preparing for Work: A Report on the Skills for Work Pilot Programme
In 2005, HMIE published Working Together, which considered aspects of vocational education for school pupils. This evaluation of the pilot phase of Skills for Work courses demonstrates many strengths. It is particularly encouraging that almost all learners had a very positive experience and gained increased confidence and maturity.
Education and Schooling for Asylum-Seeking and Refugee Students in Scotland: An Exploratory Study
The study provides an overview of the current education provision for asylum-seeking and refugee children in primary and secondary settings; and identify what might constitute ‘best practice’ within the context of Scottish education for the integration of asylum-seeking and refugee pupils into schools.
Class Sizes, Staffing and Resources Working Group: Final Report
The findings of the Class Sizes, Staffing and Resources Working Group
Vocational Education and Training in Scotland and France: A Comparative Study
A comparative study of approaches to vocational education and training in Scotland and France, focussing in particular on provision for the 14-19 age group in both countries.
Restorative Practices in three Scottish Councils: Evaluation of pilot projects 2004-2006
The overall aim of the pilot projects was to learn more about RP in school settings and to establish whether a restorative approach could support schools to manage conflict in relationships within establishments and thereafter impact on class climate and school ethos.
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S1 and S2 Maths and English Class Sizes, Children Educated Out-with School, Pupil Projections And Provisional Pupil Numbers, 2007
Statistics on S1 and S2 Maths and English Class Sizes, Children Educated Outwith Schools, projected pupil numbers and provisional pupil numbers from September 2007
National and Local Authority Level Information on the Cumulative Attainment of National Qualifications by all Publicly Funded Secondary Schools
This Statistics Publication Notice presents national and education authority level information on the cumulative attainment of National Qualifications by all pupils in secondary schools.
A Curriculum for Excellence: Progress and Proposals
A Curriculum for Excellence was published in November 2004 following the National Debate on education in Scotland. It set out, for the first time, values, purposes and principles for the curriculum 3 to 18 for all children and young people. This publication marks the next milestone in putting A Curriculum for Excellence into practice and should be relevant to teachers and educators of children and young people from age 3 to 18. (SEED 2006).
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Evaluation of Skills for Work Pilot Courses
The results reported here are interim findings examining the piloting of SfW courses over two years.
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SQA Attainment and School Leaver Qualifications in Scotland: 2005/06
This statistics publication notice presents information on the attainment of National Qualifications by pupils attending publicly funded secondary schools and by school leavers.
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Making use of Curriculum Flexibility in Primary Schools
This report aims to share good practice with authorities and schools and to help them to reflect on their own practice.
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‘Ready for Life’ Education for personal and social development in Primary Schools
In this report HM Inspectorate of Education sets out to present an evaluation of how well primary schools promote education for pupils’ personal and social development (PSD).
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2006 Scottish Survey of Achievement (SSA) Social Subjects (Enquiry Skills) and Core Skills
The SSA is the annual national survey of pupils' attainment in the Scottish 5-14 curriculum at P3, P5, P7 and S2
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The Equality Act 2006: Guidance for Schools
Guidance to Scottish schools and education authorities on their obligations under the Equality Act 2006.
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Evaluation of the Scottish Exchange of Educational Data (ScotXed) Partnership - Research Findings
ScotXed aims to support and promote the electronic exchange of information through effective and secure systems and providing access to high quality information for educational partners in Scotland.
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Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Drug Education in Scottish Schools - Research Findings
A report on the effectiveness of Drug Education in Scottish Schools.
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HMIE: Case studies of good practice in improving the climate for learning
The aim of these case studies is to provide examples of successes in promoting better behaviour towards better learning. The case studies illustrate the key characteristics of good practice in aspects of learning and teaching, support for pupils, examples of curriculum flexibility, partnership working and leadership. (HMIE 2006)
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Determined to Succeed Three years on: Investing in Scotland's Future - Creating a culture of enterprise in our schools
This is a report detailing the progress of delivery of the Determined to Succeed strategy since 2003.
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Teachers in Scotland, 2006
The latest data on teachers in publicly funded schools in Scotland, derived from the annual staff census which took place in September 2006.
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Pupils in Scotland, 2006
This document contains information on pupils in publicly funded schools in Scotland, mainly derived from the latest annual pupil census which took place in September 2006.
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Celebrating Success: Spring 2007
Celebrating Success in Scottish Schools: Spring 2007 Newsletter
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Education for Citizenship: A Portrait of current practice in Scottish schools and pre-school centres
Education for Citizenship – a portrait of current practice is the first in a series of portraits by HMIE, depicting current practice in key aspects of the Scottish school curriculum. (HMIE 2006)
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Attendance and Absence in Scottish Schools 2005-06
Results of the attendance and absence survey 2005/06. Information relates to local authority and mainstream grant-aided schools only.
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Consultation on the Draft Parental Involvement in Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher Appointments Regulations 2007
Responses to the consultation on parental involvement in appointments of headteachers and deputy headteachers
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Evaluation of the Whole School Approach to Enterprise in Education Pilot Programme May 2004 - January 2006 - Research Findings
The Whole School Approach (WSA) pilot programme was funded by the Hunter Foundation and the Scottish Government’s Determined to Succeed strategy and directed at two learning partnerships. The key aim of the programme was to increase the enterprising behaviours and attitudes of the children.
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Determined to Succeed and Young People at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) February -October 2005 Part of the National Evaluation of Determined to Succeed
This study aimed to examine the potential contribution of DtS to improving the outcomes of young people at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training) in both mainstream and non-mainstream settings.
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National evaluation of Princes Trust Xlerate with XL programme
The evaluation report produced by Durham University has found the xlerate with xl programme “to be an excellent and very effective programme, and one which is having a very significant impact on the young people”. Moreover, the programme and in particular the advisers are held in high esteem by the young people themselves.
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Promoting Equal Opportunities in Education- Project Two Guidance On Dealing With Homophobic Incidents: Report and Recommendations
This is the Scottish Government summary of LGBT Youth’s research report on how homophobic incidents and homophobia is dealt with in schools.
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Destinations of Leavers from Scottish Schools 2005-06
This statistics Publication Notice presents national and education authority level information on the destinations of young people leaving Scottish schools (publicly funded, independent and grant-aided)
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Evaluation of Pilots to Improve Primary to Secondary School Transitions
Report presenting the findings of an 18-month evaluation of three pilot initiatives financed by the Scottish Government Education Department (SEED) and implemented in three local authorities: North Lanarkshire, East Ayrshire and Glasgow City.
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Teaching Scotland’s Children – a report on progress in implementing ‘A teaching profession for the 21st century’
Between 2002 – 2006 HMIe have been inspecting the progress which has been made in respect of the Teacher’s Agreement.
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The Nature and Implications of the Part-Time Employment of Secondary School Pupils
This study examined the nature and extent of part time employment of secondary school students across Scotland and examined the possibilities of recognising part time employment within the formal education system.
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Building Friendships and Strengthening Communities: A guide to twinning between
Denominational and Non-denominational Schools
This guide provides ideas, suggestions and good practice examples in relation to twinning between denominational and non-denominational schools.
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Improving Scottish Education
A report by HMIE on inspection and review 2002-2005. (HMIE 2006)
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Ambitious, Excellent Schools: progress report
A progress report on Ambitious, Excellent schools – the Scottish Governments agenda for the most comprehensive modernisation programme in Scottish schools for a generation. (SE 2006)
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Missing Out
A report on children at risk of missing out on educational opportunities. (HMIE 2005)
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National Evaluation of Determined to Succeed - Phase 1: Early Implementation Processes across Scotland September 2004 to August 2005
In September 2001 the Scottish Government set out its Determined to Succeed (DtS): Enterprise in Education (EinE) strategy. The results reported here are key findings from research carried out between October 2004 and August 2005 examining the views of key stakeholders on initial planning and early implementation of DtS/ EinE in Scotland.
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A Curriculum for Excellence - The Curriculum Review Group
'A Curriculum for Excellence' sets out the Scottish Government's vision for transforming Scottish education by 2007. It seeks to establish the values, purposes and principles of education in Scotland for children between the ages of 3 and 18. (SEED 2004)
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The sum of its parts? The Development of Integrated Community Schools in Scotland
This report aims to identify issues and good practice in the continuing development of ICS projects across Scotland. These projects have provided an indication of how aspects of children's services can be delivered through integrated working among partner agencies. (HMIe 2004)
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A Curriculum for Excellence - Ministerial response
The ministerial response outlines a programme of work to address issues that need to be tackled as a matter of priority. These developments will be part of the process of creating a single, coherent Scottish curriculum 3-18. (SEED 2004)
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Ambitious, excellent schools - Our agenda for action
The Scottish Government's agenda for the most comprehensive modernisation programme in Scottish schools for a generation. (SEED 2004)
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Insight 22: Study Support and Out of Schools Learning in Scottish Schools
This is a research report on the Study Support Programme. Its aim is to help all pupils reach higher standards of achievement and attainment, but together with other out of school learning activities, it also addresses social inclusion and targets pupils health and physical activity.
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Families
Working effectively with young people and their families can often have a positive impact on their experience of school. In this section you will find reports about the complex issues some families deal with.
1 in 9, The Scottish Coalition for Young Runaways
This study was undertaken to examine responses to young people in Scotland
who run away from home or substitute care. The study, commissioned by 1 in 9, The Scottish Coalition for Young Runaways, originated from concerns about the
experiences of young people who run away or are forced to leave where they live and aimed to find out more about the responses currently in place to address the needs of these young people.
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The impact of poverty on young children's experience of school
This study examines the extent to which poverty impacts on younger children's experience of school, focusing on life in primary schools in Northern Ireland.
Serving Children? The Impact of Poverty on Children’s Experiences of Services
To request a copy of this Save the Children report email B.Kirk@savethechildren.org.uk or phone 0131 527 8244.
Working for Families Evaluation Phase 1 (2004-2006)
This report presents an evaluation of phase 1 of the Working for Families programme which was established to invest in new initiatives to improve the employability of parents who have difficulty participating in the labour market.
The Best and the Worst Job in the World: Why being a parent isn’t easy
Scotland’s parents are feeling the pressure to be perfect more than ever before and parents of teenagers are looking for help they say just isn’t there. That’s the findings from Children 1st’s new report
Poverty in Scotland: A Briefing
Growing Up in Scotland: Year 2: Results from the second year of a study following the lives of Scotland's children
Growing Up in Scotland is a major longitudinal study launched in 2005 with the aim of tracking a group of children and their families from the early years, through childhood and beyond.
Parenting and the different ways it can affect children’s lives: research evidence
Policy makers and commentators often blame ‘bad parenting’ for children and young people’s troublesome behaviour. What can research tell us about the influence of parenting, especially the parent-child relationships in millions of ordinary families?
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The cost of not ending child poverty: How we can think about it, how it might be measured, and some evidence
This study examines the cost of child poverty to society as a whole.
Making the Gender Equality Duty Real for Children, Young People and their Fathers
This publication provides a comprehensive overview of the Duty followed by analysis of current inequalities within early years provision, education, health and social services with suggestions on how they might be addressed.
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Monitoring Poverty and Social Exclusion
This annual report on the state of poverty and social exclusion in the United Kingdom covers low income, work, education, health, housing, disadvantaged children and exclusion from services.
Voices of people experiencing poverty in Scotland
This research aims to ensure that the voices of people living in poverty are heard as policies to tackle poverty and disadvantage in Scotland are developed.
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Examining the Use and Impact of Family Group Conferencing: Research Findings
This report reviews the evidence for the effectiveness of FGC in children's services and to understand broadly how the approach is being used here in Scotland and more widely in the UK.
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Parenting Education: messages from research and practice
Parenting skills education has an important contribution to make towards improving outcomes for children and young people. The purpose of this report is to identify the best available evidence on parenting programmes and to find out what sort of parenting programme works best. Buy this new Barnardo’s resource here.
Evaluation of Making the Difference Leaflets
Research Report on the evaluation of Making the Difference series of leaflets for parents, which are aimed at highlighting the difference parents can and do make to their children's learning.
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What makes parenting programmes work in disadvantaged areas?
There is increasing enthusiasm in government and the community for parenting programmes. However, little is known about what influences their effectiveness in poor, ethnically diverse areas.
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Child poverty in perspective
New UNICEF report assesses for the first time the well-being of children and young people in 21 industrialised countries; UK ranks bottom in child wellbeing assessment.
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Growing Up in Scotland: A study following the lives of Scotland's children
This is the first part in a new longitudinal research project aimed at tracking the lives of a cohort of Scottish children from the early years, through childhood and beyond. Its principal aim is to provide information to support policy-making, but it is also intended to be a broader resource that can be drawn on by academics, voluntary sector organisations and other interested parties.
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Household’s Below Average Income in Scotland 2005-06
This fact-sheet provides details on the estimates for individuals, children, adults of working age and pensioners living on low income in Scotland and seeks to clarify some of the definitions used and minor changes to the methodology introduced this year.
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Parenting and children’s resilience in disadvantaged communities
This research set out to examine the distinctive challenges of bringing up children in disadvantaged areas, looking at the perspectives of both parents and children. The research suggests that encouraging parents to support each other is likely to be more effective than parenting classes at tackling anti-social behaviour. (JRF 2006)
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A review of the Scottish Government Document Guidance on the Circumstances in which Parents may Choose to Educate their Children at Home
The report reviews responses to the Scottish Government consultation in respect of the document ‘Guidance on the Circumstances in which Parents may Choose to Educate their Children at Home’
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Cool with Change: Understanding and supporting young people through family change
The Centre for research on families and relationships, in collaboration with Scotland’s Families, have been awarded a grant from the Community Fund to explore the impact of family change on the lives of young people aged 11-14. The separation of parents, re-partnering of parents, or the death of a parent transforms family life can have profound impact on children and young people. One key aim of the project will be to assess how existing family support services are used by young people and how they might be developed.
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Evaluation of Aberlour Langlees Family Centre
The evaluation funded by SEED and carried out by the University of Dundee highlights the success of Langlees in providing flexible programmes tailored to the complex needs of the communities that it serves. Researchers were particularly impressed with Langlees ability to forge partnerships and make links with other statutory services.
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Keeping the family in mind
Based on Barnardo’s work in 12 specialist young carers projects across the UK, this report explores the lives and needs of children and young people who care for parents with mental health problems. Case study material supports an agenda for providing improved support.
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Monitoring Poverty and Social Exclusion in Scotland
The New Policy Institute has produced its 2006 edition of indicators of poverty and social exclusion in Scotland providing a comprehensive analysis of trends over time and differences between groups. In summary, there has been substantial progress in poverty among children and pensioners but not among working-age adults. There remain substantial problems in Scotland's ill-health and low educational achievement by many children.
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Children’s Reporter Annual Report 2005-06
The Scottish Children's Reporter Administration (SCRA) confirmed that the number of children being referred to the SCRA has doubled in the last 10 years.
Take to this report.‘Involved’ fathering and child well being: Fathers involvement with secondary school age children
‘Involved’ fathering and child well-being explores the nature of contemporary fathering and its impact on children. What does a father’s involvement mean to the different family members? What factors affect a father’s role and what benefits are there to children with involved fathers? (JRF 2004)
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Britain’s Poorest Children (revisited)
Save the Children is calling on the government to urgently adopt a strategy to address the needs of the poorest children.
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Are there effects of mothers’ post-16 education on the next generation? Effects on children’s development and mothers’ parenting
This report suggest that, in and of itself, simply extending the amount of time which mothers spend in education does little to directly affect the educational attainment of their children: rather it is the ability, prior achievement, motivation and aspirations of women which inform their participation in education post-16, their parenting and the attainment of their children.
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Finding the Right Support? A review of issues and positive practice in supporting parents with learning difficulties and their children
Social care has a number of well-known black holes and the gap between children and family teams and those working with adults with learning difficulties is unquestionably one of them. So this is a report that should be welcomed. The emphasis here is on providing the ‘right sort of support’ and removing ‘disabling barriers’.
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Annual Population Survey In Scotland 2005
This summary publication presents analysis on the labour market, education and training. Results are presented here at Scotland and sub-Scotland levels.
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Understanding what children say: Children’s experience of domestic violence, parental substance misuse and parental health problems
We have a limited understanding of children's experiences of domestic violence, parental substance misuse and parental health problems. The complex dynamics that can surround families dealing with these issues may make it difficult for parents and professionals to understand how children feel. As a result, children's needs are often overlooked and they do not receive the support they need. (JRF 2004)
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Aberlour – The Healthy Fathering Report
This report provides an overview of the work of a small, time limited project with one key message – that fathers matter to children and need acknowledgement and support in undertaking their fathering role. (Aberlour 2003)
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Additional support
In this section you will find reports which are relevant to working with young people with additional support needs.
Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004
This legislation aims to modernise and improve the current system for identifying and addressing the needs of all children and young people who may face a barrier to learning and need additional support. ( SEED 2004).
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Literature review of Educational provision for pupils with additional support needs
This study set out to review the definitions of special/additional support needs employed in different countries, the placement patterns of children with particular types of difficulties and approaches to pedagogy and curriculum for children with ASN.
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Partnership Matters - A Guide to Local Authorities, NHS Boards and Voluntary
Organisations on Supporting Students with Additional Needs in College
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Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004: Sharing practice across sectors, across Scotland
This document supports the implementation of the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 by sharing practice.
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Mainstream pupils with additional support needs: an evaluation
This report outlines the response of education authorities throughout Scotland to what is commonly referred to as the ‘presumption of mainstreaming’ in relation to pupils with special educational needs (SEN). (SE 2005).
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Personal Support for Pupils in Scottish Schools
This report is based on evidence from HM Inspectorate's programmes of inspections of Scottish primary, secondary and special schools during the period 2000-2003. The report identifies some strength’s in the current systems and some areas for improvement. It also describes some examples of newly-emerging good practice designed to meet pupils' personal needs and finally considers some key areas where evidence suggests that further improvements are required. (HMIe 2004)
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That’s NEET
This briefing paper provides background information for the Scottish Parliament Enterprise and Culture Committee’s round-table discussion on the Scottish Government’s Employability Framework, Workplus, and their Not in Employment Education or Training (NEET) strategy, More Choices, More Chances.
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The Evaluation of Post-School Psychological Services Pathfinders in Scotland (2004 - 2006)
In April 2004 PSPS Pathfinders were established representing an extension of the existing work of educational psychology services. The aim of the PSPS is to promote better outcomes for young people and to contribute to the reduction of the proportion not in employment, education or training (NEET)
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Entitlement to Learning Scoping Study
The study focussed on small groups of young care leavers and young people not in education training and employment as well as those who influence them. The research explored stakeholder views of learning entitlement and attitudes towards post compulsory education in order to explore whether a system of learning entitlement would be sufficient to encourage educational re-engagement.
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The role of street based youth work in linking socially excluded young people into education, training and work
This research, commissioned by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, represents the first, major, national study of street-based youth work in England and Wales. It focused in particular on work with socially excluded young people - a key target group for the Connexions service. The research provides valuable learning and insights which are applicable to the Scottish context. (JRF 2004)
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Mentoring disaffected young people: An evaluation of mentoring plus
Mentoring has emerged as the latest in a long line of interventions aimed at reducing youth disaffection. This study is one of the first to provide first-hand evidence of whether such programmes are effective. It focuses on ten ‘Mentoring Plus’ programmes. The research provides valuable learning and insights which are applicable to the Scottish context. (JRF 2004)
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Support Children’s Learning: Code of Practice
This code explains the new duties on education authorities and other agencies to support children's and young people's learning under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004. (SEED 2005)
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Support for pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD) in mainstream primary school classrooms: a systematic review of the effectiveness of interventions
This English review aimed to summarise existing research findings to answer the following question to inform policy and practice: What are effective strategies to support primary-aged pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties in mainstream classrooms? (EPPI 2003)
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Summary report
Count Us In: Achieving Inclusion in Scottish Schools
This report is based on a survey by HM Inspectorate of Education of good practice in Scottish schools which identifies seven key messages for practice. (HMIe 2002)
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Missing Out on Education
Missing Out on Education offers a unique insight into the lives and experiences of young people who are out of school and miss substantial periods of their education. (Save the Children 2003)
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Schools and family change: School based support for children experiencing divorce and separation
This collaborative project between practitioners and researchers assessed two school-based intervention projects with children. It explored whether these could help children better adjust to their parents’ separation and examined both the effectiveness and acceptability of different types of support.(JRF 2003)
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What works in inclusive education?
Bringing together research from the UK, Europe, North America and Australia, this Barnardos report looks at what inclusive education is and its potential benefits. It considers what impact legislation or national and local policies can expect to have on school provision and reviews the evidence at a school and classroom level. Finally, it discusses the possible implications of inclusive education. (Barnardos 1997)
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Young people looked after
This section gives guidance and recommendations for improving the school experience of young people who are accommodated by the local authority.
Review of research on vulnerable young people and their transition to independent living
The overall aims of the review were to support developments in policy, practice and joint working by mapping research in two areas: transitions out of care settings and housing issues.
No Time to Lose: A manifesto for children and young people looked after away from home
This manifesto has been drawn up by: Aberlour Child Care Trust, the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF), the Fostering Network, the Scottish Institute for Residential Child Care (SIRCC), the Scottish Throughcare and Aftercare Forum and Who Cares? Scotland.
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Celebrating Success: What Helps Looked After Children succeed
The aim of the study was to understand from people who have experienced being looked after, what helped them become and feel successful - To listen to those who had gone on to experience success in their lives, and to find out what they felt made a difference.
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Extraordinary Lives
Creating a positive future for looked after children and young people in Scotland.
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SEED Sponsored Research: My Turn To Talk summary report
Sponsored research summary report on My Turn to Talk? - The Participation of Looked After and Accommodated Children in Decision-Making Concerning Their Care.
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Supporting Young People Leaving Care in Scotland
This report outlines regulations and guidance on services for young people ceasing to be looked after by local authorities. (SEED 2004)
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Residential Care and Education: Improving Practice in Residential Special Schools in Scotland
This report is the first national review of school care accommodation services inspected jointly by the Care Commission and HMIE. It is based on the first round of inspections of all of Scotland's residential schools which came within the Regulation of Care (Scotland) Act 2001. (HMIe 2004)
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Reuniting looked after children with their families
This literature review examines available research (most from the USA) on the consequences of reuniting children who have been taken into local authority care with their families. (JFR 2006)
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A Study of Sexual Exploitation of looked after and accommodated young people
This Barnardo’s report provides an account of a study of sexual exploitation of looked after and accommodated young people in and around the Glasgow area.
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Scratching the Surface
This is a Barnardo’s investigation into ‘What is know about the abuse and sexual exploitation of young people by adults targeting residential and supported accommodation units’.
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Mental health
In this section you will find reports detailing the experiences of young people dealing with mental health issues and also recommendations in respect of best practice.
Mental Health and Child Poverty
This study examines the impact on child poverty of mental illness among parents and carers.
Only Connect: Addressing the emotional needs of Scotland’s Children and Young People
This is the report of the survey of professionals carried out as part of the second phase of the SNAP Assessment of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Needs in Scotland.
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Raising Awareness and Promoting Positive Mental Health and Well-being Among Young People: The Role of Peer Support
The aims of the research project were to explore young people’s views and experiences of peer support and whether they think it would be a good approach to take in terms of raising awareness and promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. Also, to find out how peer-support might be developed so that it becomes a more effective means of raising awareness and promoting positive mental health for children and young people
Take me to this report.National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Wellbeing: Small Research Projects Initiative 2006-07: A Qualitative Exploration of the Links Between Self-Harm and Attempted Suicide in Young People
The study explored links between non-suicidal self-harm and attempted suicide in young people, to identify ways of reducing the risk of suicide.
Investigating the Link between Behaviour and Mental Health in Schools
This report, commissioned by the Pupil Support and Inclusion division in 2004, investigates the link between emotional and mental well being and behaviour in Scottish schools.
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Delivering for Mental Health: Children and Young People Mental Health Services Conference 28 February 2007
Report on the 28 February 2007 conference on Child and Young People Mental Health
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Child and adolescent mental health: a guide for healthcare professionals
This report examines the type of problems faced by children and young people aged five to 17 years and the prevalence of mental health problems among this age group. It discusses barriers to the necessary provision of treatment, including stigma and discrimination. It considers the strategies in place to provide care and how effective these strategies are proving in practice. It goes on make recommendations for action and lists sources of further information.
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Scotland's National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Well-Being: Small Research Projects Initiative 2005-06 - Mental Well-Being and Behaviour in Schools: Promoting Links Between Evidence and Practice
Mental Well-Being and Behaviour in Schools: Promoting Links Between Evidence and Practice.
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Children and Young People’s Mental Health: A Framework for Promotion, Prevention and Care (Draft for Consultation)
The Framework has been developed to assist all agencies with planning and delivering integrated approaches to children and young people's mental health. (SE 2004)
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National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Well-Being action plan 2003-2006
The plan sets out how the major aims and priority areas for action will be taken forward by the National Programme up until 2006 (SE 2003)
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Needs Assessment Report on Child and Adolescent Mental Health
This needs assessment of the mental health of Scotland’s children and young people was
commissioned in autumn 2000 by the Scottish Government Health Department. (PHIS 2003)
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Can you hear me? The needs of Children and Families living with mental illness in the west of Glasgow
This project, funded by the Mental Health Development Fund, was a joint initiative between Greater Glasgow Health Board, Aberlour Child Care Trust and Greater Glasgow Primary Care Trust. Its aim was to examine joint working practices between social work and mental health for a group of patients attending the Riverside Resource Centre, a general adult community team base covering an area of mixed deprivation in urban Glasgow. (Aberlour 2001)
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Substance misuse
In this section you will find reports outlining the experiences of young people and their families affected by substance misuse. Reports in this section also offer guidance about delivering services to young people affected by substance misuse.
The impact of heavy cannabis use on young people's lives
This research explored the impact of heavy cannabis use on the lives of young people.
Have we got out priorities right?
A report on the debate of the Think Tank brought together by Aberlour, in partnership with the Drug Action Team Association, to examine and debate responses to children affected by parental drug and alcohol use. (Aberlour 2006).
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Report on the Child Protection Letters of Assurance exercise – Children affected by Drug Misusing Parents and Drug Misuse
This report summaries responses Ministers received from Health Boards, Chief Constables, Council Leaders and Chief Executives of local authorities in respect of two issues raised relating to child protection services.
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Substance Misuse Research: "Looking Beyond Risk": Parental Substance Misuse: Scoping Study
This report describes the current literature on parental substance use and identifies priorities for future work.
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Substance Misuse Research: Evaluation and Description of Drug Projects Working with Young People and Families Funded by Lloyds TSB Foundation Partnership Drugs Initiative
This report describes and evaluates a number of projects within the Partnership Drugs Initiative.
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A matter of substance? Alcohol or Drugs: Does it make a difference to the child?
This is the second Think Tank report published by Aberlour in partnership with Scottish Association of Alcohol and Drug Action Teams. The report raises awareness of the estimated 100,000 Scottish children affected by parental alcohol use and explores the differences between problem parental alcohol use and drug use and the impact on children.
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Review of grey literature on drug prevention among young people
The aim of this review is to complement the evidence base built by mainstream literature for drug prevention among young people by systematically reviewing those drug prevention materials that do not traditionally find their way into systematic reviews, namely the grey literature.
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Alcohol Statistics Scotland 2007
Alcohol Statistics Scotland – 2007 is the second biennial complication of available information on alcohol and problematic drinking. New information is included on alcohol related deaths
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Hidden Harm - Scottish Government Response to the Report of the Inquiry by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs
Hidden Harm is a report on the Executive's action to help children and young people in families affected by drug misuse.
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Parental Drug and Alcohol Misuse: Resilience and transition among young people
This report provides an in-depth account of the impact of parental substance misuse on parenting, on roles within the family, and on relationships. It identifies differences in the effects of drug and alcohol misuse and the relevance of gender and socio-economic status. (JRF 2004)
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A summary version of this report can be found at here
Services for Young People with Problematic Drugs Misuse: A Guide to Principles and Practice
This report offers guidance on delivering services for those under 16 who have problems with drugs and/or substance misuse. It follows from the 2002 Research Review on Young People's Treatment Services and also draws on a June 2002 seminar with managers and practitioners from a range of services. (SE 2003)
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Keeping it Quiet: Children and Families in Greater Govan affected by Parental Drug Use
This report has been produced as a result of concerns raised by people working and living in Greater Govan, including relatives of drug users. They recognised that the children and families of the many drug users in Greater Govan do not always get the support that they require. Additionally they identified the need for a better awareness of the needs of these children and how to tackle these needs. (Aberlour 2001)
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Children’s services
In this section you will find reports outlining the move toward better integrated children’s services and improved partnership working.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of The Child (UNCRC) Explained:
A report for over 12’s on progress being made in Scotland to implement the UNCRC.
Are we there yet? A report for under 12s about children's rights in Scotland
A report for under 12s about progress being made in Scotland to implement the UNCRC.
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: A guide for children and young people
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child: A guide for children and young people
Respect and Responsibility: Sexual Health Strategy Second Annual Report
The report illustrates the progress made in the second year of the strategy which has seen patients, young people and the public generally benefiting from what, in some cases, are services which have been completely transformed. The report also sets out the challenges for the future as the strategy moves into its next phase.
Volunteering in the Youth Work Sector: An Action Plan
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Getting the Balance Right
A report issued by Children 1st in partnership with ChildLine in Scotland, highlights key questions that must be answered if vulnerable children are to be kept safe in Scotland. The 'Getting The Balance Right' report raises tough questions on how to protect Scotland’s children from abuse and harm.
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A Report on Implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in Scotland 1999-2007
This Report was initially prepared by the Scottish Government as its contribution to the third UK periodic report to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child being prepared by the UK Government. The Report sets out the position in Scotland in some detail.
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The Key Role of Staff in Providing Quality Pre-school Education
This report looks at the relationship between the quality of provision offered to our young children and the qualifications and training of those adults working with them. It identifies the importance of high level qualifications and training in early education to effective leadership skills and the impact on the delivery of quality provision for children.
Joint Inspection of Children’s Services for children of asylum seekers in the Glasgow City Council Area
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Social Work Inspection Agency: Performance Inspection Summary: Dundee City Council 2007
Summary of performance inspection of social work services in Dundee CIty Council 2007
Quality Improvement Framework for Integrated Services for Children and Young People
A document that sets out the Executive's recommended approach to the development of quality improvement for children's services. (SE 2006).
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Developing cultural entitlements for young children in rural Scotland
Arts for all? Developing cultural entitlements for children in rural Scotland explores how cultural entitlements can be delivered in rural areas, where ensuring access to the arts is more challenging.
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Review of Support Service Needs of Voluntary Organisations: Perceptions of Users and Providers - Research Findings
Research conducted by Rocket Science UK to establish the support needs of voluntary organisations, compare this with available services, and make recommendations for areas for action.
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Delivering a Healthy Future: An Action Framework for Children and Young People's Health in Scotland
‘Delivering a Healthy Future’ sets out a structured programme of actions to improve services for children and young people in Scotland.
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Effective Approaches to Risk Assessment in Social Work: Literature review and research findings
This international literature review was commissioned by the Scottish Government following the 21st Century Review of Social Work (Changing Lives 2005). That work identified the need to develop new organisational approaches to risk management and risk assessment which promoted excellence in social work and a renewed culture of learning from mistakes.
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A guide to evaluating services for children and young people using quality indicators
The approach to evaluation taken in this guide underlines the complementary roles of
self-evaluation and inspection in quality improvement. At the heart of the guide is a set
of generic quality indicators that can be drawn on for both self-evaluation and inspection. (HMIE 2006).
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Getting it right for every child: Implementation Plan
Plans for the implementation of Getting it Right for Every Child proposals.
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A Shared Approach to Building a Better Scotland – A Consultation Paper on a National Strategy for Shared Services.
A Report on the analysis of the responses to the consultation
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A Process Review of the Child Protection Reform Programme
This report is a Process Review of the CPRP, a three-year initiative with the goal of improving protection of children at risk of neglect and reducing the number of children who need protection.
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Safer Recruitment through Better Recruitment: Guidance in Relation to Staff Working in Social Care and Social Work Settings
Guidance for social care and social work employers to support use and development of recruitment and selection processes which help to ensure only staff suitable to work with service users are employed.
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The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Bill: Pre-Consultation Discussion Paper on Secondary Legislation
This is a pre-consultation discussion paper on secondary legislation.
Take me to this report.Connect Youth Full Circle
Connect Youth has had a considerable impact on the youth participation agenda over the last decade. There have been a number of key successes not least in supporting the development of the Scottish Youth Parliament. The report ‘Connect Youth Full-Circle’ highlights those successes and looks toward the future of youth participation in Scotland.
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National Review of the Early Years and Childcare Workforce: Analysis of Written Consultation and Workshop Responses - Research Findings
Summary of the analysis of the responses received on the consultation 'National Review of Early Years and Childcare Workforce
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Full Cost Recovery in the Voluntary Sector Impact Assessment - Research Findings
Report on costs and impacts of the implementation of the principle of Full Cost Recovery in the public sector contracts with the voluntary sector.
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Young people’s voices
In this section you will find reports which specifically highlight the experiences and opinions of young people who are disengaged or disaffected from school.
Learning to Read a New Culture: How Immigrant and Asylum Seeking Children Experience Scottish Identity through Classroom Books
Web Only Research Report in the Education Sponsored Research Series
Children researching links between poverty and literacy
This study examines education and poverty from children's own perspective, focusing on reading and writing proficiency as a potential route out of poverty.
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A child's-eye view of social difference
This participatory study explores children's views of social difference, with children guiding the research focus themselves.
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School Councils and Pupil Participation in Scottish Secondary Schools Scottish Consumer Council
This report calls on the Scottish Government to act to improve the quality of pupil participation. Investment in guidance for schools, training for school staff and school council members and mechanisms to share good practice on pupil participation would help to ensure consistent standards across Scotland’s schools.
Centre for Research on Families and Relationships and ChildLine Scotland: Children and Young People's Concerns about their Sexual Health and Well-being: Final Report to the Scottish Government
Report on children and young people's concerns about their sexual health and wellbeing.
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Young People's Views on Participation and Their Attitudes Towards the European Union: Building a Bridge Between Europe and its Citizens
This short evidence review was prepared to support the Building a Bridge project. It reviews young people's levels of trust and participation in political processes, as well as their attitudes towards the European Union.
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Getting it Right for Every Child - Proposals for Action: Consultation with Children and Young People
This report explores the views of children and young people in relation to the consultation paper, Getting it Right for Every Child - Proposals for Action. This includes views on: joint working and information sharing; gaining children's views; criteria for referrals; operational details; and access to information about the Children's Hearings system.
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SEED Sponsored Research: Children as Researchers
An SEED Sponsored Research report - The principal aim of this project is to explore the problems and possibilities of incorporating a ‘children as researchers’ perspective into the agenda of government social research in Scotland.
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Supporting Pupils: A study of guidance and pupil support in Scottish schools
The main purpose of this study was to gather the views of pupils/young people, their parents/carers and teachers about current guidance/pupil support provision in primary and secondary schools in Scotland, and ways in which they thought it could be improved. (SEED 2004).
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SEED Sponsored Research - Learning at a Distance Supported by ICT for Gypsies and Travellers: Young Peoples' Views
This report presents the findings of research with Gypsy/Traveller and Showground Traveller pupils relating to their experience of interactive communications technology (ICT) and its support for their learning in schools. The research explored its potential, particularly in relation to electronic connectivity, for supporting access to a school curriculum when travelling or attending an out of school setting.
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19 in 2005 - Scotland’s Young People: Findings from the Scottish School Leavers Survey
The Scottish School Leavers Survey (SSLS) series aims to describe the experiences of young people at school, the decisions the make about staying on or leaving, and their transitions and experiences after leaving school. This summary provides findings from the second survey sweep of the forth cohort, based on young people aged 19 in 2005.
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Fit for Future
This Princes Trust report, based on interviews with more than 1,000 16 to 25 year olds, shows the benefits of building young people’s self-esteem.
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A comparison of how young people from different ethnic groups experience leaving school
This research examined how young people from different minority ethnic groups experience growing up in Scotland. It compared these experiences with those of young white people to consider similarities and differences in the transition to adulthood
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A Different Class? Educational Attainment: the views and experiences of looked after young people
The aim of this consultation exercise was to record the experiences of a large number of looked after young people from across the country. (SEED 2002)
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Further Education and Complex Needs: Views of Children and Young People
This publication was produced by the CALL Centre and summarises the findings of interviews conducted with children/young people with complex needs, of their experiences and aspirations of further education. (SEED 2006)
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‘School let me down’: overcoming barriers to educational achievement
A survey of young people using NCH services about their experiences of education. (NCH 2003)
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Care to Learn?
This report presents the educational experiences of children and young people who are looked after and accommodated in care homes. Children describe in their own words what works well and what could be improved. They make suggestions on how schools, local authorities and policy-makers can better support them and protect their right to education and a good start in life. (Save the Children 2003)
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Aberlour – Outside Looking In
A report highlighting findings from a research study about the views of looked after young people and their access to education. The report provides an opportunity to listen to the voices of the looked after and excluded. (Aberlour 2001)
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Missing Out: Young Runaways in Scotland
The circumstances and experiences of young people under the age of 16 who run away or are forced to leave their homes has been the subject of increased concern in recent years. This report attempts to further our understanding of this phenomenon by presenting the findings from a large scale investigation into running away in Scotland. (Aberlour 2001)
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A summary version of this report can be found at
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Children’s services
In this section you will find reports outlining the move toward better integrated children’s services and improved partnership working.
Exploring the evidence base for better integrated children’s services
The Scottish Government has introduced a number of policies in recent years to encourage more effective integration of public services. This review considers the existing evidence base on integrated children's services and highlights issues emerging for developing the evidence base further. (SE 2006).
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Code of Practice for the Joint Inspection of Services to protect Children and Young People
Code of practice to support the Joint Inspection of Children's Services and Inspection of Social Work Services Act (Scotland) 2006.
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For Scotland’s Children: better integrated children’s services
Effective integrated working among professionals from different agencies is needed to enable a child to benefit from education. This report from the Action Team, drawn from local authorities, the National Health Service and the voluntary sector, focuses on how to improve the integration of children's services with the aim of achieving better outcomes for children and families. (SEED 2001)
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Getting it Right for Every Child - Proposals for Action: Analysis of Consultation Responses
Full report on analysis of responses to Getting it Right for Every Child consultation here
Getting it right for every child: Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework: The process and the content of an Integrated Framework and the implications for implementation
This paper from the Scottish Government is the first in a series of three documents that together set out the rationale for an Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework, as outlined in Section 3 of Getting it right for every child. This is the Supporting Document: this paper sets out the process and content of assessment within an integrated framework, to outline some of the processes involved in preparing organisations for change and to provide details of the key elements of an implementation strategy so that assessment takes account of all influences on a child's life and is rooted in understandings of child development. (SE 2005)
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Getting it right for every child: Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework: Mapping Template
This document from the Scottish Government is the second in a series of three documents that together set out the rationale for an Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework, as outlined in Section 3 of Getting it right for every child. This is the Mapping Template: this has been developed to assist national and local planners, developers and practitioners to match materials that are currently used or are in the process of being designed against the requirements of the Framework. (SE 2005)
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Getting it right for every child: Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework: Case Studies
This document from the Scottish Government is the third in a series of three documents that together set out the rationale for an Integrated Assessment, Planning and Recording Framework, as outlined in Section 3 of Getting it right for every child. This is the Case Studies publication: its purpose is to facilitate the process of local discussion to develop a shared understanding about the principles and concepts underpinning the Framework; explore 'how it might work' locally, and review what might be different under the Framework, what is in place to support its implementation and what needs to change. (SE 2005)
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Access all Area
Children in Scotland have published a report ‘Access all Areas: what children and young people think about accessibility, inclusion and additional support at school’, which informs a three study undertaken in collaboration with Borders Council.
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Young people's awareness and experience of Educational Maintenance Allowances (EMAs) and their impact on choices and pathways
The aim of the research was to gather evidence of young people's awareness and experience of the EMA, to assess the impact on young people's choices and pathways, and to assess if EMAs help to prevent young people from becoming NEET.
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24 in 2006 - Scotland's Young People: Findings from the Scottish School Leavers Survey
The Scottish School Leavers Survey (SSLS) series aims to describe the experiences of young people at school, the decisions they make about staying on or leaving, and their transitions and experiences after leaving school.
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