Effective ongoing action to keep the child in focus includes:
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developing a direct relationship with the child;
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obtaining information from the child about his or her situation and needs;
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eliciting the child’s wishes and feelings – about their situation now as well as plans and hopes for the future;
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providing children with honest and accurate information about the current situation, as seen by professionals, and future possible actions and interventions;
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involving the child in key decision-making;
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providing appropriate information to the child about his or her right to protection and assistance;
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inviting children to make recommendations about the services and assistance they need and/or are available to them;
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ensuring children have access to independent advice and support (for example, through advocates or children’s rights officers) to be able to express their views and influence decision-making; and
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the importance of eliciting and responding to the views and experiences of children is a defining feature of staff recruitment, professional supervision, performance management and the organisation’s broader aims and development.
