1. Providing useful and accessible information

Professionals and parents, particularly those living in remote areas, need access to information that is relevant to their situation. An effective way of doing this is through the internet. This can provide instant online access to information and advice on approaches. However, the information must be easy to access and relevant to the user. It will also work better if there are interactive support structures. These could include:
· online exchange for problems and request for support (e.g. via a bulletin board)
· facilitation of sub-networks / groups / co-operation projects (e.g. via e-mailings, e-newsletters, etc).

Professionals and parents will need introduction to this material, and one way that this will be done will be through face-to-face training.

2. Engendering sustainability

The availability of detailed and practical documentation about the work (through the inventory) and the means of contacting others (through the support networks) is a key factor in ensuring the sustainability of a programme. The internet acts both as an instantly accessible repository of material used on the programme and as a means of contacting those who have been involved in the programme.

3. Facilitating multiplication

Making the materials and methods freely and widely available through the inventory will encourage multiplication of the programme beyond the initial target areas. Networking is an effective way of assisting multiplication and will be facilitated via the support networks and the virtual training centre. The techniques of 'viral marketing' (such as having the facility to send a link to the website to a colleague) will be used to 'spread the word'. The role of local media will be important.

4. Support and empowerment

In addition to information and training, parents and professionals need support. But the support network should go beyond this. Professionals and parents need empowerment to enable them to implement and carry on with this innovative work. The support network should therefore have the capacity to:
· meet the individual needs of professionals and parents
· help to create support groups on specific issues
· assist in implementation
· encourage and support monitoring and evaluation
· help to build support within government

5. Building partnerships and working in cooperation

Achieving the full potential of this work will require partnership working. Partnerships and cooperation can take different forms. A multidisciplinary approach is essential and connections and co-operation both horizontally and vertically will be required. Partnerships require a range of technical and methodological skills to function and to produce desired outcomes. Partnerships help to create sustainability and multiplication.