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Last broadcast on Wed, 26 May 2010, 10:00 on BBC Radio 4 (FM only).
Synopsis
Presented by Jenni Murray
Are social networking sites taking over your children's lives? Do your kids have more friends online than outside? And do you ever feel the need to spy on them? We look at the serious issue of childhood Constipation and hear from the ceramicist Emma Bridgewater about her pottery business. Also, in the recession we look at the issue of equal pay in the public sector following last month's employment tribunal awarding millions in compensation to female employees of Birmingham City Council.
Emma Bridgewater
It’s twenty-five years this May that Emma Bridgewater launched her company producing handmade pottery. She joins Jenni to talk about the
British roots of the company.
Childhood Constipation
Childhood Constipation affects up to 30% of the UK child population, with children often experiencing social, psychological and educational problems and needing prolonged support. Today the National Institute for Clinical Excellence produces guidelines on childhood constipation. Jenni hears from a mother whose 3 year old daughter has experienced the problem; and discusses what can be done to help children with Dr Jenny Gordon, who chaired the group responsible for the NICE Guidelines,and Jenny Perez Director of the charity ERIC which aims to improve childhood continence.
Equal Pay - Impact on Councils
Last month an employment tribunal ruled that about 4,000 female employees of Birmingham City Council were entitled to up to £200 million in compensation payments. The tribunal found that the Council’s system of bonus payments made to employees in male dominated roles had been discriminatory.
Most local authorities have settled these claims which stem from the 1997 Single Status Agreement, but about 20% of them still have claims pending. With cuts in public spending looming, what are the implications for our public services? Jenni discusses the issues with Heather Wakefield, UNISON, Head of Local Government; and Councillor Alan Rudge, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Human Resources Birmingham City Council,
Social networking
Social networking sites like Myspace, Bebo, Facebook, Twitter, MSN have become evermore popular.
But a report published by the Mental Health Foundation has linked social networking to loneliness. There are safety and privacy concerns. Should we check up on our children's social networking? How do parents police something they might not even really understand? Sue Elliott-Nicholls reports on the Cold War between teenagers and parents.
Chapters
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Chapter 1
Childhood constipation affects 30% of the UK child population. Jenni speaks to Dr Jenny Gordon, who chaired the group responsible for the NICE Guidelines, and Jenny Perez of ERIC.
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Chapter 2
It’s 25 years since Emma Bridgewater launched her company producing handmade pottery; with a 19th century factory in Stoke-on-Trent making their ceramics & other designs.
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Chapter 3
Social networking sites are increasingly popular for young people. Sue Elliott-Nicholls gives a parent’s view.
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Chapter 4
Broadcast
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Wed 26 May 201010:00
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