I am currently BSL 4th Carrickfergus and this is my 4th year. My interest in special needs comes from my nurse training where I had a very positive experience during what was then ‘the mental handicap’ placement. I work as a Care NVQ assessor/tutor and explore discrimination, equality and treating people as individuals with the candidates. I also have a beaver with autism and one being investigated for ‘aspergers’.

Since volunteering for this position I have been thinking about the role and what is required. I have made a few phone calls and been able to gather up some resources. Of particular interest was a conversation with Siobhan Stratton a play advisor from Barnardos who sent an excellent guide called ‘Including children with disability’
Siobhan does do presentations and this is something groups or the district as a whole may wish to explore.

Some advice she gave that groups can immediately implement is
On registration forms ask the question ‘ Does your child have a disability’
(not just allergy/medical condition)
This helps avoid problems and makes the family feel they will be welcomed
In posters and leaflets include a child in a wheelchair –
ALWAYS WITH OTHER CHILDREN NEVER ALONE
This is the most effective way to show Scouting is an inclusive organisation
Most importantly –“See the child not the disability”

She advised against direct contact with special needs schools as this may be met with a large response where it would be impossible to meet the needs of each child.

I spoke to County Commissioner Special needs – David Mehaffey. He is the principal at Fleming Fulton School. They have a Cub Pack which meets on a Wednesday at 2pm. David invited me to visit and stated that they have leaders coming to the school to get advice, where they have a child with special needs in, or joining, their section. If you think this would be useful please phone and make an appointment.He also stated that there is a special needs module for leaders who are interested – one for me I think!!

Other issues we discussed were how voluntary youth groups in NI are not covered by disability law as they are in England .This is to do with slight differences in other legislation such as education. I had previously been informed of this by the equality commission (yes I rang them too!) However David stated that the Scout association advises that groups comply with the law on disability discrimination as much as possible.

David raised two other points I thought you might find useful.

1. Badges- there is a great level of flexibility within the badge work however some badges may not be appropriate where a level of “intellect” is required, such as first aid.

2. He also said that a child can be retained in a section past the required age if that section is more suited to the child. This has to be approved by the D.C

I hope you have found some of the information useful. I am looking for ideas as to what leaders feel they need, please contact me with your thoughts and queries.

Programme Ideas for Beavers

It is hosted by Justin, who also plays a character of a clown called ‘Mr Tumble’.

The programme uses sign language throughout, of a very basic level, for example animals, shops, toys etc. The programme also features footage of children with special needs visiting farms, playing games, singing songs, at school etc. Although I am aware it is a programme for pre-schoolers it is only short and entertaining enough for the Beavers.

Leaders could tape the programme and discuss with the Beavers how some children have special needs and how we are all different. This could be incorporated with other games where the Beavers are given ‘a disability’ such as can only use 1 arm, cotton wool in their ears, hold their hand over their mouth, made to sit on a chair and not move are some examples. The other Beavers could think of ways to ensure that they are able to join in the game. The leader can then follow this up with a short discussion

Another idea is to explain the use of sign language (not only for hearing impaired but for those with learning difficulties) and give the Beavers a sign to watch out for in the programme. Then at the end they can show the others what the sign was.

You may think of other ideas, if you do pass them on and please give me some feedback on the above.

Thanks for reading!

Catherine.

Email:cirwin134@btinternet.com