Childhood and Young People

MU 2.9 1.1 Explain why working in partnership with others is important for children and young people When childcare settings and anyone involved in working with children and young people come together and work in partnership with one another, the outcome can only be a positive one for both the children and young people and those providing a duty of care to a child. Working in partnership with others is important for children and young people so outcomes can be improved for children and their families through a wider range of access of different service providers and there will be more efficiency in delivering these services whilst benefiting all involved. The adults involved in this partnership can be a parent or carer, colleagues, professionals and multi-disciplinary teams which are staff from various professions each with their own expertise. When effectively communicating with one another, correctly exchanging information, sharing knowledge and understanding and accepting one another’s roles, working in partnership becomes more enjoyable, effective and consistent and is known as multi-agency working or integrated working. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) clearly encourages working in partnership with others so children and young people’s health, development, learning and relationships will positively be affected and the outcomes improved. The EYFS says it seeks to provide ‘partnership working between practitioners and with parents and/or carers’. Being able to create and maintain an effective relationship with all the various professionals and agencies involved is important as is knowing when to ask and get help and support from other professionals. The EYFS says ‘Knowing when and how to call in specialist help is one important element of inclusive practice’. Being able to understand and adhere to this will ensure all children and young people concerned can have the best opportunities and outcomes subject to their individual needs.

Bibliography: Level 2 certificate for the children and young people’s workforce, Penni Tassoni