Boosting speaking skills

BackgroundWhile the relationship between speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) and mental health difficulties has been recognized, speech and language therapists (SLTs), and mental health professionals face challenges in assessing and treating children with these co‐occurring needs. There exists a gap in the evidence base for best practice for professionals working with children and young people (CYP) who experience difficulties in both areas.AimsTo explore the views of SLTs and mental health clinicians about their experiences of working with CYP exhibiting co‐occurring SLCN and mental health difficulties.Methods & ProceduresSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight SLTs and six mental health professionals, including psychotherapists, clinical psychologists, play therapists and counsellors, with experience working with CYP with SLCN. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and themes were identified from the data.Outcomes & ResultsParticipants felt that SLCN and mental health difficulties frequently co‐occur. Participants described how CYP with SLCN and mental health issues commonly experience difficulties across and between the domains of language and cognition, emotional well‐being and challenging behaviour. Findings suggest that there are organizational limitations in the fields of SLT and mental health that have implications for the efficacy of assessment and treatment of CYP with SLCN and mental health difficulties. Traditional talking therapies were perceived to be inaccessible and ineffective for CYP with SLCN and mental health difficulties. Interventions blending behaviour and emotion programmes with language and communication interventions were considered potentially beneficial.Conclusions & ImplicationsFuture research should explore and evaluate current services and service set‐up in SLT and mental health. The findings from this study have important implications for the efficacy of treatments provided to this population suggesting that more research needs to be done into effective diagnosis and interventions for this population.WHAT THIS PAPER ADDSWhat is already known on the subjectResearch suggests that CYP with SLCN, such as developmental language disorder (DLD), are likely to experience mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety and poor emotional well‐being. CYP who experience difficulties with SLCN and poor mental health are not well understood and this area remains under‐researched. This has implications for clinician knowledge and therefore the effective diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents experiencing SLCN and mental health difficulties. In addition, little is known about the accessibility of talking therapies to CYP presenting with SLCN and mental health difficulties.What this paper adds to existing knowledgeSLCN issues are understood by SLTs and mental health issues are understood by mental health professionals, but where these co‐occur difficulties exist for the diagnostic process, with professionals perceiving that CYP in this category are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Organizational boundaries between SLT and mental health were perceived to contribute to a lack of understanding of SLCN and mental health needs, which has implications for effective diagnosis and treatment. Traditional talking therapies were thought to be inaccessible for CYP with SLCN and mental health difficulties. Interventions used in both SLT and psychotherapy were perceived as clinically useful if combined.What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?This paper highlights implications for the accessibility and efficacy of the assessment and treatment provided to this population and to the organization of services currently treating this group of CYP. A direction for future research would be to undertake service evaluations and intervention‐based studies.

The aims of this small-scale study were to explore the feasibility and outcomes of a parent-implemented intervention for two-year-olds at risk of language difficulties, and to explore the implications for the public health model of speech and language therapy (SLT). This adds to limited research into targeted SLT public health interventions. It is the first study to investigate early language intervention delivered by trained therapy assistants (TAs) rather than clinicians. Nine children aged between 26 and 31 months took part. Seven (78%) completed the six-session intervention. The outcome measure was the Words subscale of the Language Use Inventory. The gross motor subscale of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire was used as a control measure. Children’s skills were assessed twice before intervention and once afterwards. At baseline, six participants had expressive language delay and no wider speech, language and communication needs (SLCNs). Five of this subgroup showed language use skills within the typical range following intervention. At baseline, three participants had expressive language delay and previously undetected receptive language and/or social interaction difficulties. None of this sub-group showed improved age-adjusted language use skills following intervention. All nine participants had gross motor skills in the typical range at each time point. These exploratory findings suggest this targeted intervention is feasible. This study presents no evidence of short-term impact of this intervention for two-year-olds with expressive language delay and wider SLCNs. These findings suggest this targeted language intervention for two-year-olds may be associated with accelerated language development for some two-year-olds at risk of language difficulties because of expressive language delay; and may help identify two-year-olds with previously undetected wider SLCNs, and therefore facilitate early access to specialist support. We highlight limitations in the study size, design and outcome measures, and identify how these preliminary findings can inform future research.

Speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the UK were asking this question in the winter of 2007. John Bercow is the Conservative party champion for better speech, language and communication services in the House of Commons. His importance to SLTs was that he had been selected to lead a high-level review of services for children and young people with speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) in England. This had been commissioned by both the Department of Health (DH) and the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). Therefore there was a real opportunity to have infl uence at the highest level, where traditionally there has been a lack of shared understanding between these departments. This has previously led to separate policies, divergent practices and priorities for resources, which has created tension for SLTs who—;although normally employed by health services—;wish to work in partnership with teachers to facilitate children’s access to the curriculum.

Emerging Good Practice in Managing Research Data and Research Information within UK Universities

The spread of fake news continues to have serious social and political consequences for society. Young people are the group most exposed to this reality, due to the way they are constantly connected to the digital universe. Our goal is to analyze the ability of high school students to evaluate fake news and news, relating it to their behavior on social media and their ability to search for information. We applied a questionnaire to 716 students (Mage = 16.63, SD = 1.18), in which they were exposed to 10 headlines (5 news and 5 fake news). Subsequently, students indicated how often they accessed certain sources and what strategies they used to search for information for school research. In addition, they also revealed how often they opt for certain behaviors on social media. The results revealed that young people considered, on average, news more credible than fake news. The belief in fake news revealed significant differences in relation to the sex and region of the respondents. While the credibility of the news tends to be positively correlated with a more rigorous treatment of information, the belief in fake news is, on the other hand, more associated with less careful treatment of information and the use of social media as a news source. These results also confirm the widespread lack of interest in news by young people. Most students tend to avoid news, with 27% doing so frequently. This study highlights the importance of digital literacy and civic participation in young people in the construction of future societies.

The mass media have been used as a way of delivering preventive health messages. They have the potential to reach and to modify the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of a large proportion of the community. To evaluate the effectiveness of mass media interventions to prevent smoking in young people in terms of reduced smoking uptake, in addition to secondary outcomes including improved smoking outcomes, attitudes, behaviours, knowledge, self-efficacy and perception. We searched the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group Specialised Register and conducted additional searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE in July 2010. Randomized trials, controlled trials without randomization and time series studies that assessed the effectiveness of mass media campaigns (defined as channels of communication such as television, radio, newspapers, bill boards, posters, leaflets or booklets intended to reach large numbers of people and which are not dependent on person to person contact) in influencing the smoking behaviour (either objective or self-reported) of young people under the age of 25 years. Information relating to the characteristics and the content of media interventions, participants, outcomes, methods of the study and risk of bias was abstracted by two independent reviewers. Studies were combined using qualitative narrative synthesis. Seven out of a total of 84 studies reporting information about mass media smoking campaigns met all of the inclusion criteria. All seven studies used a controlled trial design. Three studies concluded that mass media reduced the smoking behaviour of young people. All of the effective campaigns had a solid theoretical basis, used formative research in designing the campaign messages, and message broadcast was of reasonable intensity over extensive periods of time. There is some evidence that mass media can prevent the uptake of smoking in young people, however the evidence is not strong and contains a number of methodological flaws.

Small emerging contracting companies could possibly be flooding the construction industry, putting strain on the construction economy to stay afloat, support and sustain these participants. It is important for any organisation that deals with other individuals and organisations to understand the correct ethical codes of conduct in a business environment. To minimise unethical behaviour in the industry, new contractors need to both understand and apply the principles of ethical conduct in their business environments. This research is aimed at investigating whether ethical conduct among new entry-level emerging contractors can contribute to, and ensure their sustainable competitiveness in the South African construction industry. This research is also aimed at determining whether education and knowledge of entrepreneurship, business, project and construction management, in addition to building contracts, can contribute to new entry-level emerging contractors’ ethical conduct and sustainable competitiveness. The literature reviewed and the results of quantitative research among professional consultants in South Africa formed the basis of the study. Ethics is a sensitive topic within the construction industry; therefore, it is difficult to gather the data directly from contractors, as they are reluctant to participate for fear of revealing their identities and having this negatively influence their personal and business credentials. Unbiased respondents, who were not directly linked to emerging contractors and who were not afraid to give their objective opinions, were questioned and included architects, quantity surveyors, consulting engineers, project managers, construction mentors, and construction managers. The study revealed that ethics is an important factor in any business environment and that the correct application thereof can partially contribute to the sustainable competitiveness of new entry-level emerging contractors. This, in turn, should promote the long-term survival of a business. Furthermore, the knowledge of good management practices and building contracts can contribute to a successfully run business. However, the average new entry-level emerging contractor has insufficient experience and knowledge of the management of construction projects and of building contracts. The study should be valuable to construction-industry professionals, contractors and clients, as it provides them with research information on a problem area in the industry.

The main aim of this research study was to explore the personal, social and educational interventions needed to support young people towards better future outcomes into employment. Youth unemployment is a persistent problem across Europe and young people are one of the most unprotected groups (Putun et al. 2016). In Ireland, current unemployment figures show that 17.5% of young people are unemployed (CSO 2020). There are a number of factors that impact on young people entering the labour market, if they are early school leavers, recessions and having poor employability skills (OECD 2014). Guidance counsellors have a critical role in supporting young people to navigate the changes in the current labour market (Bassot et al. 2014; Institute of Guidance Counsellors 2017; Indecon 2019). Guidance provision is available in the education sector, labour market and community sectors. However, it is evident, if young people experience mandated interventions, this can negatively affect their overall well-being and further impedes their employment progression (Whelan 2018; Kelly et al. 2019). An interpretivist paradigm was employed in this research using semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences of six professional practitioners in different support provisions engaging with young people aged from 15 to 24 years (Thomas 2017). A thematic approach was used to analyse the data and to identify patterns and themes (Braun and Clark 2006). The main findings in this study indicate that a number of personal, social and educational factors can prevent young unemployed people from progressing into the labour market. A key finding highlighted the need to restructure the educational system to incorporate different pathways into education to support all students. Also, the creation of guidance provision for early school leavers to help them during transitional periods to prevent longterm unemployment. Furthermore, the findings indicate the necessity for holistic interventions and a more connective system across all services engaging with young unemployed people.

AimsCopy number variants (CNVs) are large changes in the structure of DNA. Certain rare CNVs are associated with elevated chance of neurodevelopmental conditions and difficulties (NDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability, alongside various physical health complications. Currently, CNV testing in children with NDs is only recommended under limited circumstances, in part because their impact on outcomes and prognosis remains unknown. We aimed to investigate whether individuals with NDs in childhood, with and without rare pathogenic CNVs, differ in terms of functional outcomes in early adulthood.MethodsPathogenic CNV carriers were identified in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), a UK birth cohort of individuals born in 1991–1992. Individuals with the following childhood NDs were identified through parent-reported diagnostic interviews and questionnaires, and assessment with the child: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity-Disorder (ADHD), ASD, reading difficulties, coordination difficulties, language difficulties, and chronic tics. Outcomes were measured at age 25 and included: presence of an emotional disorder, being in receipt of sickness/disability benefit, ability to make and maintain friendships, not being in education, employment, or training (NEET), and self-reported life satisfaction. We will use logistic regression to measure the association between carrying a pathogenic CNV and each functional outcome in ALSPAC. Sensitivity analyses will be conducted on all large (>250kb), rare (<1%) CNVs, as opposed to only pathogenic CNVs.Results983 individuals with probable NDs (39.4% female, n = 387) were identified in ALSPAC, including 495 people with ASD, 163 with ADHD, 16 with Tourette's syndrome, 210 with reading difficulties, 295 with language difficulties, and 166 with coordination difficulties. Many individuals met criteria for more than one ND.43 (4.4%) of individuals with an ND carried a pathogenic CNV. CNV carrier status amongst individuals with a ND was not associated with sex (4.4% of females vs 4.4% of males, OR = 1.007 [0.539–1.882] p = 0.981). Analysis of CNV carrier status on outcomes in NDs will be conducted between February and April 2024.ConclusionEvidence in support of poorer outcomes in CNV carriers could suggest that neurodiverse young people with CNVs may benefit from intervention to improve outcomes, and thus more individuals may benefit from genetic testing. Conversely, evidence indicating that CNVs do not impact outcomes may suggest that current clinical guidelines are appropriate within the current research landscape, and that further research is needed to understand the impact of carrying a pathogenic CNV in young people with NDs.

Objective: Australia has implemented a nation-wide programme providing a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to girls and boys through school-based programmes. Previous research has identified three distinct areas for attention: (1) lack of understanding about HPV and HPV vaccination, (2) young people’s desire for involvement in decision-making about HPV vaccination and (3) fear of HPV vaccination. We aimed to develop an intervention to address young people’s low levels of understanding, to promote their involvement in consent and reduce vaccination-related fear and anxiety. Design, Setting, Methods: Formative qualitative research was conducted in six public, private and Catholic schools in the Sydney metropolitan area. Girls who were offered the vaccine in a school programme and aged 12–13 years were interviewed in focus groups. Piloting of materials was conducted in three private schools across Sydney with both girls and boys, and changes and additions were made to the materials in accordance with feedback. Results: We developed an educational intervention aimed at addressing gaps in young people’s knowledge and understanding, and offering strategies to improve confidence with vaccination and reduce needle-related anxiety. Components of the final intervention include film chapters, a magazine, a website, an app and teacher support materials. The intervention is designed for teachers and/or nurses to deliver and is linked to the school-based HPV vaccination programme. Conclusions: This is the first educational intervention designed for young people in HPV school-based vaccination, to be developed from empirical data with the involvement of young people themselves.

The article explores investment opportunities available for entrepreneurs who wish to start a business in Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict in the country. The authors discuss the challenges faced by startups and investors in the context of war and the instability of the economic sector, such as access to financing, infrastructure, and talent. The study examines potential investment sectors in Ukraine and key legal aspects relevant to investing in the country. The aim of the research is to highlight and understand the peculiarities, challenges, and opportunities that arise for businesses during a military conflict and in the post-conflict period. To achieve this goal, the authors have formulated the following objectives: to study the characteristics of the war and post-war state and their impact on the business environment, markets, and investment climate; to identify potential investment opportunities for businesses in the context of the war and post-war state, including infrastructure restoration, economic recovery, development of new markets, etc.; to identify key risks and obstacles that affect the investment process and business development in the conditions of war and post-war state. Ukraine offers a range of investment opportunities for both local and international investors. An important factor is its strategic location between Europe and Asia, a market full of potential, and abundant natural resources, which makes it highly attractive for investment. The country also has a robust IT sector and a highly skilled workforce with technical and innovative knowledge to create and develop a favorable economic environment. The Ukrainian startup ecosystem is prepared to address challenges and enhance the opportunities that have been gained. A scientific article on this topic can become a valuable source of knowledge and information for researchers, business leaders, investors, and policymakers who are interested in understanding and utilizing investment opportunities in times of war and post-war conditions. Key words: management, business, investments, opportunities, war state, post-war state.

This study investigates the information practices of young Croatian emigrants to Ireland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people (aged 19–30) who had emigrated from Croatia to Ireland. The data was analysed using thematic analysis and MAXQDA. The young emigrants’ information practices revolve around meeting specific needs concerning migration, focusing on aspects such as employment, accommodation and daily life in the new country. The Croatian ethnic community emerged as a crucial factor in facilitating the settlement process. Official online sources are also integral. While widely used, social media is not perceived as a fully trustworthy source of information. Moreover, libraries are not among the preferred sources of information for young Croatian emigrants. It is concluded that the information-seeking practices of young emigrants involve a delicate balance between personal connections, official sources and the navigational use of social networks, and libraries need to adopt a proactive approach to meet young emigrants’ needs.

PurposeChildren and young people with comorbid intellectual disabilities (ID) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are more likely to exhibit comorbid mental health disorders (MHD) and other significant behaviours (SB) in addition to the core symptoms of ASD. The purpose of this paper is to identify the prevalence of comorbid MHD and behaviours in children and young people with ID and ASD in Egypt.Design/methodology/approachThe Reiss scale for children’s dual diagnosis was administered by parents and teachers of 222 Egyptian children and young people with mild/moderate ID and ASD to screen for MHD and SB. The mean age of children and young people was 12.3 years (SD = 3.64), with 75.6 per cent male.FindingsThe results revealed that 62.2 per cent of children and young people with ID and ASD had high rates of comorbid MHD and behaviour disorders were shown in 64.4 per cent of the participated children and young people. The results identified anger, anxiety and psychosis being the most frequently diagnosed disorders while crying spells and pica were the most SB. No differences were found between the male and female with ID and ASD in the current study.Research limitations/implicationsMental health assessment of children and young people with ID and ASD will help to highlight the needs of these vulnerable children and develop the appropriate services.Originality/valueThe findings highlight the prevalence of MHD in children and young people with ID and ASD in Egypt. This has implications on the assessment of comorbid disorders and services needed for children with ID and ASD in Egypt.

which unique insights can be gained from the investigations of the physiology of the growing child? Are there pragmatic outcomes to research in children's exercise science that bear specific utility to this age group or to their future life? What importance do exercise responses in youth bear to our

BackgroundScaling up voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) to 80% of men aged 15–49 within five years could avert 3.4 million new HIV infections in Eastern and Southern Africa by 2025. Since 2009, Tanzania and Zimbabwe have rapidly expanded VMMC services through different delivery (fixed, outreach or mobile) and intensity (routine services, campaign) models. This review describes the modality and intensity of VMMC services and its influence on the number and age of clients.Methods and FindingsProgram reviews were conducted using data from implementing partners in Tanzania (MCHIP) and Zimbabwe (PSI). Key informant interviews (N = 13 Tanzania; N = 8 Zimbabwe) were conducted; transcripts were analyzed using Nvivo. Routine VMMC service data for May 2009–December 2012 were analyzed and presented in frequency tables. A descriptive analysis and association was performed using the z-ratio for the significance of the difference. Key informants in both Tanzania and Zimbabwe believe VMMC scale-up can be achieved by using a mix of service delivery modality and intensity approaches. In Tanzania, the majority of clients served during campaigns (59%) were aged 10–14 years while the majority during routine service delivery (64%) were above 15 (p<0.0001). In Zimbabwe, significantly more VMMCs were done during campaigns (64%) than during routine service delivery (36%) (p<0.00001); the difference in the age of clients accessing services in campaign versus non-campaign settings was significant for age groups 10–24 (p<0.05), but not for older groups.ConclusionsIn Tanzania and Zimbabwe, service delivery modalities and intensities affect client profiles in conjunction with other contextual factors such as implementing campaigns during school holidays in Zimbabwe and cultural preference for circumcision at a young age in Tanzania. Formative research needs to be an integral part of VMMC programs to guide the design of service delivery modalities in the face of, or lack of, strong social norms.