Showing posts with label child protection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label child protection. Show all posts

Friday, 29 January 2021

Things in the library 29th January...

 Things about child marriage... 

Although not primarily a problem in high-income countries this systematic review in the Journal of Adolescent Health is interesting as it  assesses evaluations published from 2000 to 2019 to shed light on what approaches work, especially at scale and sustainably, to prevent child marriage in low- and middle-income countries. The results indicate that enhancement of girls' own human capital and opportunities is the most compelling pathway to delaying marriage. In contrast, low rates of success, scale-up, and sustainability of multicomponent programs requires reconsideration of this approach. This review supports global efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goal 5.3.1 target of ending child marriage by 2030.

Things to rate... 

If you have read or used one of our library books then you can let others know what you thought about it by rating it and/or writing a review on our catalogue, Simply login with your reader number and PIN to give a star rating. Logging in to the catalogue, whilst not essential for searching, does give you the ability to see what you have borrowed and manage your renewals, create lists and favourite searches, customise the display and share information with others. 

Things that have unexpected benefits... 

For many years we have wanted to enable people to be able to pay for their photocopying, library fines and hot drinks by card and (thanks to a pandemic) we now have the ability to do so. So for those of you arriving at the library counter and unable to pay your dues ("I have no money with me") we are now able to accept cards and other contactless devices!

Things to discuss... 

“Don’t you see that the whole aim of Newspeak is to narrow the range of thought? In the end we shall make thoughtcrime literally impossible, because there will be no words in which to express it.” 

This and other quotes from George Orwell's '1984' will no doubt be amongst our discussions at Reading Group on Wed 3rd Feb online at 18:30. If you would like to join us then please contact the library for the link.



Things about social media... 

The results of a study looking at social technology use from the perspectives of adolescents currently hospitalized for a recent suicide attempt or severe ideation. Results reveal both positive and negative social technology uses, with most participants reporting mixed (positive and negative) experiences. Negatives/risks included trouble regulating use, stress related to social media metrics, encounters with "triggering" content, hostility and meanness, self-denigrating comparisons, and burdensome friendship expectations. Positives/benefits included social connection, social support, affect-enhancing content, shared interests, and resources for mental health and coping. Overall, the documented risks and benefits of social technology use correspond with established (offline) risk and protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Participants generally valued the break from social technologies during hospitalization, and also viewed them as integral to social re-entry and identified related concerns. Future studies should test well-being focused 'digital hygiene' interventions for maximizing potential benefits and minimizing potential harms of social technologies for at-risk adolescents.

Things to make... 

We have been enjoying watching Rick Stein's Cornwall series recently and many of the recipes he demonstrates are available on his website. This Spiced poached pears sounds lovely - and if like me you are trying not to buy 'out of season' foods then you will be pleased that it uses frozen blackberries. 








Friday, 2 October 2020

Things in the library 2 Oct ...

 Treasure now available... 

We are so sorry to anyone who tried to take part in our Treasure Hunt and found they could not access the quiz (and huge thanks to the person who informed us of the problem this week). As a result we have extended the quiz deadline till 30th October this is the link and it's well worth competing as the prize is a £30 book token donated by Blackwells which can be used in store or online.

Things coming soon...

Our popular Randomised Coffee Trial will be running in November, details coming soon. If you have not taken part in one of these before do consider doing so as it is a great way to meet and chat to other opeople in the trust who you might normally never meet. You will be given a link to sign up then we will randomly match you to someone else...you then arrange to meet either on site or via Microsoft teams for a 30 minute chat about anything you like. Particularly at the moment it is a good way to 'bump' in to someone and have a conversation.

Things to attend...

Our next online reading group is on Wed 7th October at the new time of 18:30 till 19:30. Our book is 'Versions of Us'. If you like chatting about books do come and join us - you have to provide your own drinks and nibbles now we are not meeting in the library. if you are interested email the library to ask to be put on the mailing list.


More things to attend... 

Thursday Journal Club is re-starting- sadly without the home-made muffins - email the library if you cannot access a copy of the paper or if you require access details

  • When: Thursday 8 October 8:00 am - 9:00 am
  • Venue: Virtual & from the Lecture Theatre
  • Presenter: Sahawash Jamali
  • Paper: COVID-19 in children: analysis of the first pandemic peak in England

Things about sport... 


The NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit’s (CPSU) annual campaign to raise awareness of the importance of parents' involvement in youth sport takes place in the week 5-11 October 2020. The theme is ‘Let’s talk about keeping children safe in sport’. During the week the CPSU will be sharing guidance on the types of things sports clubs should have in place to keep children safe and how parents can get help with any concerns they might have.

Things about disability...

Temporary Coronavirus Act provisions debated in the House of Commons on Weds 30 September could substantially restrict or curtail important, hard-won rights that disabled people rely on for their quality of life, says a new report by the Women and Equalities Committee. The Committee insists that they must not become new norms, setting back disabled people’s rights by many years. Read the Report: Unequal impact? Coronavirus, disability and access to services: interim  Report on temporary provisions in the Coronavirus Act  There are implications for Education, Health and Care Plan duties to young people with SEND.

Things about self-harm... 

In September 2020, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Suicide & Self-Harm Prevention launched their report on the inquiry into support available for young people who self-harm. This inquiry was carried out by a panel of parliamentarians on behalf of the APPG on Suicide and Self-Harm, with support provided by Samaritans.



Things about childhood... 

The Children's Commissioner has published a report into Childhood in the time of Covid. Children have fewer health risks from Covid-19 and yet they have suffered disproportionately from the nation’s efforts to contain the virus. This report aims to set out, in one place, the key ways in which children’s lives have been impacted as a result of the Covid-19 crisis – the nation’s biggest test since the Second World War. In doing so, it provides a roadmap for what must be done to enable children to recover from their experiences, and how their needs must be put first in the event of further lockdowns.

Things to make... 

Instead of a pasta bake why not use gnocchi for a change - you can probably substitute them for pasta in any recipe or try this easy vegitarian recipe for Gnocchi & tomato bake


Friday, 24 May 2019

Things in the library 24th May...

Things about jackets...

Well what a flurry....I sent out a general notification to all our library users about a jacket which was left in the library last Friday (17th) there is no indication of to whom it belongs..just a man's blue jacket and tie. Unfortunately about 30 of our 550 library users thought we were telling them it was their jacket and the personalised nature of the notification 'trumped' the phrase 'if you have lost your jacket'. Needless to say it has still not been claimed so if you have any colleagues walking around under-dressed or complaining they have lost their jacket somewhere please show them this photo. Sorry to all those who doubted their own memories about where they were and what they were wearing last week.
At least we now know how to get your attention when we need it!

Things about digital health...
 The Social Market Foundation have published a report 'National Health Servers: delivering digital health for all'. This research considers how technology could be adopted quicker and more widely by the NHS to improve the care that patients receive and to drive better health outcomes.

The report’s structure tracks the patient journey, from prevention and diagnosis in the community, into primary and secondary care, through into management of long-term conditions. As well as improving the care experience in primary and secondary care, the report argues that there are huge opportunities to keep patients out of the NHS: prevention of disease can reduce the likelihood of people having to enter hospital care in the first place; better digital management
of long-term conditions can help avoid unnecessary re-admissions into hospital. It concludes with six policy recommendations to drive improvements across the care pathway.

Things about child grooming...
Since the NSPCC successfully campaigned for a new law to make it illegal for adults to send sexual messages to children, over 5,000 online grooming offences have been recorded by police forces in England and Wales (2017/18). This blog entry is aimed particularly at teachers and other people working with young people and gives advice about how to spot the signs that a child may be being groomed.

Things about mental health and wellbeing...
The LGA's Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Peer Learning Programme looked at how to prioritise early help and free up acute care for the most vulnerable in order to achieve change; supporting councils and their local partners to learn from each other, and from other councils across the country. Eight councils and their partners took part in two learning days and a visit to another council, gaining further knowledge and understanding on how to tackle their local issue. Their finding have now been published.

Things about mental health support....
A podcast to listen to where you can  hear examples from Greater Manchester, Surrey Heartlands and South West London who, from working in an integrated way with young people and community partners, are bringing more mental health support into schools, with a strong focus on prevention. This podcast is a discussion between clinicians and system leaders talking about the benefits of improving mental health provision in schools.

Things about body image...

The Mental Health Foundation published a very accessible report on Body Image for Mental Health Awareness Week last week. The report sets out the individual, family and cultural influences that are coming together to mean that we often have a gnawing and debilitating sense of dissatisfaction with our own bodies. They also identify the heightened risks of mental health problems that too often accompany poor body image. They make the case that the distress related
to poor body image and the related mental health problems can be prevented. This report is clear that changes to culture, parenting styles, schooling approaches, use of technology, advertising standards and how we address discrimination will make a real difference. They are calling for action across all levels of society, which, if heeded, will help us to be kinder to our bodies and healthier in our minds.

Things to help you switch off...
I have read some positive reviews about an app called 'Offtime' (Android and iOS). It provides you with intuitive analytics of your phone usage, enabling you to identify your habits. Learn what you’re doing, when you’re doing it, and how long for. You can set hurdles, reminders or restrict access to any apps that you find distracting. Instead of pointless procrastination, you can get involved with what’s right in front of you. For a chosen period, you can block calls, texts and notifications that might disturb you, though you can select the people who can still get through (Android only). Download from your your usual App store where there is a free and pro version available I believe.

Things to eat...
These oriental-style salmon fishcakes (or burgers) are easy to make, healthier than meat and traditional fishcakes and delicious.











Friday, 8 June 2018

Things in the library 8th June...

Things about obesity...
The House of Commons Health Committee has published a report which states that current estimates suggest that nearly a third of children aged 2 to 15 are overweight or obese in the UK and younger generations are becoming obese at earlier ages and staying obese for longer. Obesity rates are highest for children from the most deprived areas and this situation is getting worse. Children aged 5 and from the poorest income groups are twice as likely to be obese compared to their most well-off counterparts and by age 11 they are three times as likely. The case for stronger action on this unacceptable and widening health inequality is compelling. The Government is expected to publish shortly a refreshed version of the childhood obesity plan first published in summer 2016. This report outlines the following key areas which demand attention as a matter of urgency by the Government before the next chapter of the plan is finalised: A ‘whole systems’ approach; Marketing and advertising; Price promotions; Early years and schools; Takeaways; Fiscal measures; Labelling and Services for children living with obesity.

Things about child sexual abuse and adverse experiences...

The Department of Health and Social Care have published a report which sets out current knowledge on trauma-informed care approaches to child sexual abuse and child sexual exploitation. It includes personal case studies and recommendations for a trusted relationship model.
They have also published a report about adverse childhood experiences which presents key findings from a study that aimed to
describe: the development and piloting of the Implementation Pack; practitioner views of the Implementation Pack; and practitioner (and where possible client) views on REACh (Routine Enquiry about Adversity in Childhood

Things about Lycra...
An article not on the fashion pages but in European Journal of Paediatric Neurology! Lycra garments have recently been used for children with cerebral palsy, with favourable effects on alignment, biomechanics and neuromuscular activity. An immediate improvement of static balance was observed at baseline, with the first use of the Lycra suit. Further improvement was observed at the 6 month follow up, with a statistical significance for the parameters assessing the antero–posterior axis. Both parents and children also reported functional benefits.

Things to do briskly...
Moderate intensity physical activity means getting the heart rate up and breathing faster. Just 10 minutes of brisk walking a day is an easy way for adults to introduce more moderate intensity physical activity into their day and reduce their risk of early death by up to 15%. To help adults do this, Public Health Englands’s ‘Active 10’ app has been created and it is the only app of its kind that combines intensity and time, rather than just distance.

Things about neonates...
An article on the effects of music on hospitalised preterm neonates was published in January (Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. 2018 Jan 24;ePub ahead of print) and Evidence-based Neonatology have recently reviewed it and their commentary concludes:
With recent evidence suggesting that preterm neonates may be suffering from sensory deprivation, this review complements previous evidence in suggesting that music therapy may moderate the effects of preterm birth on neurodevelopment. However further investigation through well-designed and adequately powered RCTs, which give appropriate consideration to the nature of the musical stimuli provided, will be essential in establishing the short- and long-term effectiveness and safety of this intervention.
Things about children's eating behaviour...
A review article in 'Nutrients'  looks at the relevant factors involved in the creation of some children’s food preferences and eating behaviours in order to highlight the topic and give paediatricians practical instruments to understand the background behind eating behaviour and to manage children’s nutrition for preventive purposes. In this analysis, parental food habits and feeding strategies are the most dominant determinants of a child’s eating behaviour and food choices. Parents should expose their offspring to a range of good food choices while acting as positive role models. Prevention programmes should be addressed taking into account socioeconomic aspects and education.

Things about peregrines...
If you want to find out more about the University of Sheffield's peregrines then book a free place on their Sheffield Peregrine Evening Thu 14 June  18:00 – 20:30 their will be a chance to view the adults and fledglings from the Churchyard (please bring binoculars, if possible. A few pairs will be available to borrow.) followed by talks (in St George's Church Lecture Theatre).

Things to eat...
Make the most of rhubarb at the moment - and what better than a crumble











Friday, 9 March 2018

Things in the library 9th March...

Things doubled up...
If you come up to the library to use our computers don't be surprised if you are seeing double. Thanks to a successful bid for funding from HEE we have been able to provide two screens for each of the NHS computers. If you have worked with two screens you will know how useful it is to have, for example, a spreadsheet open on one and a Word document on another at the same time. If you are not sure how to do this please ask any of the library staff for help.

Things about mental health...
The CQC report their findings of their independent review of the system of services that support children and young people’s mental health. Are we listening? full report and summary are available here. 
Their recommendations are:

  • The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care should make sure there is joint action across government to make children and young people’s mental health a national priority, working with ministers in health, social care, education, housing and local government
  • Local organisations must work together to deliver a clear ‘local offer’ of the care and support available to children and young people
  • Government, employers and schools should make sure that everyone that works, volunteers or cares for children and young people are trained to encourage good mental health and offer basic mental health support
  • Ofsted should look at what schools are doing to support children and young people’s mental health when they inspect

Things to attend...
Two ScHARR courses in Sheffield.
Experiential Research Approaches (ERA): Qualitative Methods using Observation, Description and Interpretation  2 day course - Thursday 28th - Friday 29th June 2018 Early Bird Booking rate closes 29th April 2018. Standard Booking closes 13th June 2018.
Cluster Randomised Trials Design and Analysis 1 day course - Wednesday 4th July 2018 Early Bird Booking rate closes 6th May 2018. Standard Booking closes 20th June 2018.


Things about obesity...
Children who eat takeaways once or more each week have more body fat and higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL) “bad” cholesterol levels than those who never or hardly ever eat them. Their diets were also higher in fat and lower in protein and calcium. This cross-sectional study looked in depth at eating habits and risk markers for coronary heart disease, obesity and diabetes in 2,529 children in England. Though this type of study can only show an association between takeaways and risk markers, it is one of the first of its type, and the results do give cause for concern. Increasing numbers of people are eating takeaways in the UK. Local authorities and healthcare professionals are well placed to encourage parents and children to choose healthier foods, in line with current national guidance.

Things about abuse...
Getting help to overcome abuse A quick guide for young people receiving support published by NICE is available online. This guide has been written by young people who have experienced abuse or neglect. 15 young people from around the country were supported by AVA to help develop the NICE guideline on child abuse and neglect. They did this by talking about their experiences of seeking help and support, including sharing the challenges they faced as well as what worked well. When the guideline was finished, they wanted to write a quick guide to help other young people find out what support they are entitled to.

Things about child health...
The government has published the Child Health profiles for 2018 which provide an overview of child health and wellbeing for each local authority in England. Those working in local government and health services can use the profiles as a tool to help:

  • understand the needs of their communities
  • improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people
  • reduce health inequalities

Things new in the library...
Quite a few new books hitting the shelves of the library this week. If you want to be notified when books matching your subject interests are bought please let us know. If you have suggestions for books or e-books you think we should have then get in touch. if you want to see the latest books then check this link on our catalogue.  If a book is 'processing' but not yet available it can be reserved for you.

Things to read...
Next months Reading Group will be on Wed 4th April so pop the date in your diaries the book to read is 'The Pianist' by Wladyslaw Szpilman. The powerful and bestselling memoir of a young Jewish pianist who survived the war in Warsaw against all odds.


and things to eat...
How about some Polish sausage and red cabbage - this dish could be a main or a side dish.  Rosemary braised red cabbage with kabanos takes long slow cooking but is really easy to prepare.

Friday, 26 January 2018

Things in the library 26 Jan...

Things you might want to comment on...
 Sheffield's Clinical Commissioning Group are currently consulting on their plans for changing Urgent Care in Sheffield. This is likely to have an impact on every resident so do take time to read the proposals and respond - closing date 31 January. 

Things about life-limiting conditions...
A meta-synthesis of qualitative research exploring parents' psychosocial experiences during complex and traumatic life transitions related to caring for a child with a life-limiting (LLI) or life-threatening illness (LTI) was published in Journal of Pediatric Nursing this week.  A synthesis of the findings demonstrated that parents experience profound and pervasive uncertainty, leading to their own illness experience being described as a dual reality in which fighting for survival and recognising the threat of their child's death were daily challenges. Three key processes emerged: the devastation of living with uncertainty, the emergence of hope, and moving forward.  These findings can support a more comprehensive pediatric nursing plan of care that accounts for the intricacies of the parental experience and the importance of hope.

Things about child sexual exploitation...
Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission, HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and HM Inspectorate of Probation have updated inspection guidance on the multi-agency response to child sexual exploitation and missing children. The guidance points out that a further sample of inspections on this theme is planned for 2018, which aims to identify whether agencies have made further progress since the Joint targeted area inspections (JTAIs) in 2016. For 2018, the inspectorate has widened the scope of the investigation to include children associated with gangs or involved with gangs who are at risk of exploitation. This in response to an increasing awareness of the risks to children being exploited for criminal reasons by gangs, in particular the risk of involvement in ‘county lines’. Other updates include: the inspection now considers the role of schools; and references to Local Safeguarding Children Boards have been changed to local safeguarding arrangements.


Things about cross-border children...
Can you contribute? Research in Practice is seeking children’s social workers, local authority
solicitors and children’s guardians with experience of cross-border casework (including care proceedings where an international family placement is explored or instances where a family with a child at risk has fled abroad) to participate in a telephone focus group on behalf of Children and Families Across Borders (CFAB).




Things coming soon...
We are just sending off an order for some new books...if you are searching the library catalogue you may come across items that say 'On order'. If you want to see any of these when they arrive please login with your library ticket number and PIN (ask us if you don't have one) so that you can reserve the items. If there are any resources you would like us to buy for your subject area (books or e-books) then please let us know.

Something to eat...
This celeriac, onion and mustard tart sounds easy and different. Did you know that celeriac has been used in Europe since ancient times (it is mentioned in Homer's Odyssey as selinon apparently).






Friday, 10 November 2017

Things in the library 10th Nov...

Things virtual today and tomorrow...

As part of the ESRC Festival of Social Sciences, there are some exciting free events for all the family to enjoy in the city this weekend.
Urban Extravaganza: The VR Experience Friday 10 November, 12-5pm, repeated on Saturday 11 November, 11am-3pm Winter Garden
This exciting hands-on event will showcase the origins and evolution of five cities (Sheffield, Edinburgh, Manhattan, Liverpool and Manchester) using virtual reality experiences. There will be two virtual reality headsets - one headset is bookable in advance and one headset will operate on a drop-in basis (please note, it may be necessary to queue). The virtual reality experience can be used by children aged 14+ or aged 8+ with parental agreement.
Feeling Good in a Green City Friday 10 November, 12-5pm, repeated on Saturday 11 November, 11am-3pm Winter Garden. Sheffield is one of Europe's greenest cities. People notice different kinds of nature around the city in different ways and not always the 'green' parts. For the first time, you will be able to hear the experiences of other residents of the city at an interactive listening post.
Nature and greenspace can improve our mental well-being. Researchers at the University of Sheffield's Landscape Department will offer you the chance to suggest your own creative ways to connect people with nature in Sheffield and contribute to the mental health of the city's residents.

Things about Clinical Audit...
Clinical Audit Awareness Week is on the horizon (20th - 24th November) and as part of the SCH Trust's celebrations the Quality & Standards Dept  are offering two 2.5hr Bitesize Introduction to Clinical Audit and Service Evaluation sessions.   21st Nov 10:00 - 12.30   24th Nov 14:00 - 16.30
Certificates of attendance will be produced for staff that can be used in portfolios, re-validations, etc. Please book via Learning & Development.




Things about gangs...
From the Children's commissioner is a review of the evidence on the subjective well-being of children involved in gangs in England. Children’s Voices: The Wellbeing of Children involved in Gangs in England


Things about clinical leadership...
This blog from the King's Fund - Clinical leadership – moving from good will to good practice - gives examples from the UK where clinical leadership has made a difference to improved services and quality of care.

Things from NSPCC...
Ensuring children’s voices are heard in research
The NSPCC’s Impact and evidence series features a blog by Dr. Catherine Hamilton-Giachritsis, Reader in Clinical Psychology, University of Bath; Dr. Elly Hanson, Forensic Clinical Psychologist; and Pat Branigan, Development & Impact Manager at the NSPCC discussing the challenges presented by professional gatekeeping, and how to overcome them. Professional gatekeeping happens when professionals are reluctant to identify children and young people to take part in research, which prevents the young person from making an informed choice about whether to take part or not. Strategies to overcome professional gatekeeping include: engaging young people in participation groups and research advisory groups; engaging with practitioners; and finding routes directly to young people.
Impact of online and offline child sexual abuse: "Everyone deserves to be happy and safe"
We live in an increasingly digital world but know relatively little about the effects of CSA carried out using online or digital technologies (technology-assisted CSA, or TA-CSA). NSPCC commissioned researchers from the University of Bath, University of Birmingham and CEOP to find out more.
The research team carried out interviews and questionnaires with a group of young people aged 15-19, who were recruited through the NSPCC, Childline and the National Crime Agency. The research focused on TA-CSA in particular, but sexual abuse often involves both offline and online contexts and environments. Professionals were asked how they perceive TA-CSA, and what impact they think it has on young people

Things to eat...
A nice heart warming salmon dish chosen by Sarah this week ...Gratin of fresh & smoked salmon, beetroot, potatoes & dill