‘Inescapably part of life for young people’ care home told to let children use social networks
ByNews reporter
Embargoed to 0001 Wednesday October 19
Undated file photo of the logo of social networking website Facebook seen reflected in a person's eye. Facebook may be changing people's brains as well as their social world, research has shown.
A Dundee children’s home was this week told to find a way to let its teenage residents use social networking websites such as Facebook.
The Fairbairn Street unit, which is run by the city council, looks after children aged 13 to 16.
It was visited by the Care Inspectorate, whose report gives it ”very good” ratings for the quality of its care and its environment.
The report adds: ”Young people have access to the internet and a policy and staff training support its safe use. At the time of the inspection there has been a ban on the use of social networking sites.
”While we recognise that the safe use of these sites can be problematic for care providers, they are inescapably part of life for young people and a preferred option would be to find a way of minimising the risks and promoting safe and responsible use.”
The inspectors added: ”We found that this service has a genuine commitment to enabling young people, their families and other agencies to participate in improving the quality of care and support they receive. Staff make every effort to make sure that young people are safe, healthy and supported to reach their potential.”
Photo Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire
‘Inescapably part of life for young people’ care home told to let children use social networks
