Young people in care - filming & photos | 2 November 2010

On recent courses, there has been quite a lot of discussion about whether it is appropriate to photograph/film young people in care who participate in our activities.

There have certainly been examples where this has taken place, for example some of the filming by award-winning ChatBack Productions.

The Fostering Network have advised that:

"When we get enquiries about filming/photography from foster carers, we tend to give the below advice, taken from the book Safer caring by Jacky Slade (The Fostering Network, 2006):

‘Before taking any pictures, you should seek advice and information from the child’s social worker about whether photos, cameras or camcorders have been part of any past abuse. If they have, be very careful about how soon you take a photo of the child’s involvement in family activities and how the child is prepared for this. When you do take pictures of videos ask the child’s permission first – remember that not everyone likes being in photos. If pictures are taken, or recordings made, make sure that the child gets copies, perhaps for their ongoing life story books, and ensure they know who else will see them and why’.

Posted in: Looked-after children & young people - background information

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