Jane's story
Jane has a physical impairment. The Children's Society has worked with Jane for a number of years providing regular respite care. When we first started working with Jane did not attend her review meetings. She told us:
"I'd like to go to reviews because [at the moment] it feels like secrets all kept away from me."
We helped Jane to share her views with professionals. With support she felt empowered to challenge the decision not to include her in meetings. Jane now attends and contributes to meetings. She decides how long she stays and which parts of the meeting she attends.
Professionals previously assumed Jane would not want to attend review meetings. Professionals have learnt how best to involve Jane and her parents no longer speak on her behalf. Jane has also been given more control over other decisions in her life.