The Big Question

Does the state interfere too much in family life?

JEAN STOGDON – Grandparents Plus
One person’s early intervention is someone else’s interference but what’s missing from all this talk on the new drive to deal
with so-called “hard to reach” groups is the older generation’s point of view. Many of us are knee-deep in family issues. The state should be offering support but why not look to the extended family?

ANGIE LAWRENCE – Single parent
Children should be offered the best possible opportunities and care, and if their parents are struggling to achieve this, then the state should be obliged to step in to assist them. A lack of action can lead to a never ending cycle of family problems. The
cost of not intervening at an early stage is much greater, both to the child and to the state itself.

LEN SMITH – Gypsy activist
I do think that there is a role for the state in providing guidance in some areas of life. However, this new agenda will stigmatise those who are affected, no matter what the contrary claims may be. What happens when things turn around? Relationship breakdowns, say, might be repaired. But will this end the intervention?

SHAUN WEBSTER – Change
Parents need support ut they should have ore of a say in he sort of support hey receive. The rofessionals should ot make up their
minds before they talk o people. If they take hat attitude no one ill go to them for elp as they are afraid heir children will be taken into care. The really important thing is to keep families together.

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