I have been involved in a number of groups developing advice and guidance over the years. I have a strong feeling the new nutritional guidance for children and young people in residential care settings, launched today has the potential to be very significant. It is a practical guide as well as dealing with the crucial issues related to health, self esteem, living skills and relationships.  

In family life food and meals have an important role; workers in residential care have a responsibility to bring the same values and potential into residential care.  

This guidance shares responsibility with all significant adults. I am also excited because this guidance has certainly placed young people at the centre – and the feedback from young people only serves to confirm the thoughts and views experienced workers have recognised for some time. 

In our service the scope for education and care staff to broaden their joint work has increased.  In the months ahead the potential in developing curriculum for excellence is huge. 

 

The opportunity to use this blog and share ideas and good practice should be used. We look forward to using this guidance so we can ‘get it right for every child’.  

Phil Barton, Director Starleyhall
 

Starleyhall is an independent provider of residential care and education. They provide Individualised programmes for young people coordinating care, education and health. Find out more at www.starleyhall.co.uk

Educating through Care Scotland (EtCS): www.etcs.org.uk 

  

To find out more on the new guidance visit:
 

Health Promotion Guidance: Nutritional Guidance for Children and Young People Residential Care Settings

 

Consultation Report: Children and young people’s views and experiences of food and nutrition in residential care