The voice of the infant

Abstract

ABSTRACT As part of work to develop Infant Mental Health services and systems in Scotland, the authors embarked on a project to facilitate the voices of babies and young children in our work, in the appraisal and evaluation of that work and in the design and development of our services. Our Best Practice Guidelines provide guidance on how to take account of infants’ views and rights in all encounters they may have with professionals in statutory or third sector services, or in public spaces, such as shops, libraries or galleries. The Infant Pledge details what babies and young children should expect from adults. In this paper, we will describe theoretical considerations underpinning this initiative and also place the work in the context of relevant policies and legislation, including the UNCRC.