ke files more confusing Emotional support Should be available throughout the whole process of accessing records Clear guidance Is needed to explain how to acesss records and what to expect Children's rights Young people feel it is their information and they have a 'right' to see it 79 6.8 Views of parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities Approximately half of parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities say they know what information social workers write about them and their child, describing plans and reports. Of those who don’t know, many say they want to know. Few parents say they know where information is stored. When asked what the most important thing for social workers to know about their child and family is, parents and carers most commonly describe the ‘history’, because they do not want to ‘repeat’ themselves. It is also important for social workers to have a good understanding of the child, their needs, behaviours, likes and dislikes, condition, ability and communication needs. Many parents and carers think that children and families should have access to information recorded by social workers. Although some acknowledge that their child would not understand or would have limited understanding, they would like to know so that they can share some understanding with their child. “I have no idea what the information given to panel is and why they sometimes say no.” (parent) “No, but I probably should know where it is kept and who can look at it.” (parent) 6.9 Views of children in need and children subject of child protection (CiN/CP) Children and young people subject of CiN/CP plans appear to report a better understanding of the information social workers write about them compared to children in care. Children and you