This
summer saw the first holiday play scheme in Staffordshire for children affected by HIV & AIDS. It is incredible that Staffordshire Buddies was able to respond to a perceived need in so short a time, so successfully.
Spring of 1999 saw the most significant changes in the epidemiology of HIV in the UK since the disease began to spread in the early 80’s, principally amongst gay men. The statistics available early this year indicated a new trend: new infections of heterosexuals were increasing at a greater rate than new infections amongst homosexuals. Support organisations both statutory and voluntary had new problems to face, not just heterosexual men and women but children and whole families as well.
Adult men and women are one thing, but dealing with children opens a minefield of additional problems for voluntary agencies. Issues arise regarding child welfare, parental wishes, specific health needs and special dietary requirements. Current regulations regarding childcare have to be observed and police checks undertaken for all staff and volunteers with direct contact with the children. There has to be adequate adult supervision. Protocols must be in place to deal with the need to answer children’s questions honestly whilst at the same time observing confidentiality about parents’ HIV status if this has been requested.
The lengthy document prepared for this summer’s activities addressed these issues and did more. It comprised of a package of excursions and activities designed to provide not only amusement for the kids involved but also attempted to stimulate their imaginations and develop social skills in the process. The safe guards and protocols appeared to cover every eventuality from toileting to misbehavior.
The team of staff and volunteers are to be congratulated, not only for the hard work they put in to this programme, but also for their dedication and patience with the children that assured its success. This was ground breaking activity treading where only organisations like Barnardos have trod before. |