Chapter – 7

Management of Support Services, Institutions, and Programmes for Children, Youth, and Elderly

In this post we have given the detailed notes of class 12 Home Science Chapter 7 (Management of Support Services, Institutions, and Programmes for Children, Youth, and Elderly) in English. These notes are useful for the students who are going to appear in class 12 board exams.

Chapter 7: Management of Support Services, Institutions, and Programmes for Children, Youth, and Elderly

Significance

• Family as the basic unit: The family is the basic unit of society, responsible for looking after the needs of its members.  
• Varied family structures: Families have different compositions at different stages of their life cycle.  
• Need for support services: Families cannot always provide all the specialized services needed for optimal growth and development of members.  
• Community support structures: Communities create structures like schools, hospitals, etc. to provide specialized services.  
• Poverty and lack of access: Many families in India are unable to meet basic needs or access services due to poverty and other reasons.  
• Vulnerable groups: Children, youth, and elderly are considered vulnerable groups in society.  
• Government responsibility: The government and society are responsible for ensuring a decent life for all citizens.  
• Institutions and programs: The government sets up institutions and initiates programs to support vulnerable groups.  
• Holistic approach: Some programs adopt a holistic perspective, recognizing that all needs of an individual must be met together for optimal impact.  

Understanding Vulnerability

• Definition: Vulnerable groups are those more likely to be affected by adverse circumstances.  
• Needs and vulnerability: Individuals become vulnerable when their needs are not met in daily life.  

Why are Children Vulnerable?

• Rapid development: Childhood is a period of rapid development in all domains, and adverse experiences can have lasting impacts.  
• Unmet basic needs: Many children live in challenging conditions where basic needs for food, health, care, and nurturance are unmet.  
• Specific challenges:
  • Malnutrition affects a large proportion of children under five.  
  • Lack of shelter is a reality for many children.  
  • Limited access to early learning and school education.  
  • Child labour remains a significant issue.  
• Children in conflict with the law: Some vulnerable children may violate the law or be involved in anti-social activities.  
• Juvenile Justice Act: The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000 provides a legal framework for dealing with children in conflict with the law and those in need of care and protection.  
• Children in need of care and protection: This includes children who are abandoned, neglected, abused, or exploited.  

Institutions, Programmes, and Initiatives for Children

• Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Aims to meet the health, nutrition, stimulation, and early learning needs of children under six.  
• SOS Children’s Villages: Provide family-based care for orphaned and abandoned children.  
• Children’s Homes: Government-run homes for children in state custody, providing temporary or long-term care.  
• Adoption: Legal and social process of providing a permanent family to a child who cannot be raised by their biological parents.  

Why are Youth Vulnerable?

• Biological changes: Youth experience significant biological changes that impact their well-being and identity.  
• Societal pressures: Pressure to excel in education, career, and social life can cause stress.  
• Health risks: Youth face risks related to sexual and reproductive health, substance abuse, and mental health.  
• Vulnerable groups within youth:
  • Rural and tribal youth  
  • Out-of-school youth  
  • Adolescents, particularly females  
  • Youth with disabilities  
  • Youth in difficult circumstances (e.g., victims of trafficking, orphans, street children)  

Youth Programmes in India

• National Youth Policy: Provides a framework for youth development and engagement.  
• National Service Scheme (NSS): Involves college students in social service and national development activities.  
• Nehru Yuvak Kendras: Promote youth development and engagement in rural areas.  
• Adventure activities: Government supports activities like mountaineering, trekking, etc. to promote risk-taking, teamwork, and resilience.  
• Scouts and Guides: Develops character, promotes physical and mental development, and instils a desire for social service.  
• Commonwealth Youth Programme: Facilitates youth participation in development processes and cooperation among Commonwealth countries.  
• National Integration Programmes: Promotes understanding and unity among youth from different regions and backgrounds.  

Why are the Elderly Vulnerable?

• Health concerns: Aging is associated with increased vulnerability to diseases and disabilities.  
• Social isolation: Elderly individuals may experience loneliness and isolation due to changing family structures and social dynamics.  
• Financial dependence: Many elderly people become financially dependent on younger generations, which can add to their stress.  

Programmes for the Elderly

• Addressing basic needs: Programs focus on providing food, shelter, and healthcare to destitute elderly individuals.  
• Intergenerational relationships: Programs promote interaction and bonding between different age groups.  
• Active aging: Encourages elderly people to remain active and engaged in society.  
• Institutional and non-institutional care: Provides a range of care options, including old age homes, respite care, and community-based services.  
• National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS): Offers financial assistance to destitute elderly individuals.  

Preparing for a Career in Management of Support Services

• Knowledge and skills: Requires a broad understanding of the needs of different vulnerable groups, along with strong people skills and administrative skills.  
• Interacting with stakeholders: Involves working with the community, private sector, government officials, and staff within the organization.  
• Educational pathways: Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Home Science, Social Work, or other social sciences provide a foundation for this career.  

Scope of Career Opportunities

• Entrepreneurship: Setting up own institution or program.  
• Management: Managing an established institution or program.  
• Functionary: Working at various levels within an organization.  
• Research and evaluation: Conducting research, consulting, and evaluating programs and institutions.  

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