LOOKED AFTER CHILRDEN

Looked After Children

Abstract

In this study we try to explore the views, wishes, and feelings of looked after children regarding supervised contact arrangements and comparison to the views of their parents in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on views of the children and its contrast with the views of parents. The research also analyzes laws related to the topic and the relevance of these laws with the views and feelings of the children.

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 01: INTRODUCTION4

Background of study4

Problem Statement7

Aims & Objectives8

Study Questions8

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW9

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY15

Qualitative Approach15

Sampling strategy16

References17

CHAPTER 01: INTRODUCTION

Background of study

Is there a divergence, in presumption or practice, between the parents' liability to do something in best possible welfare of a child, and a child's right to self-determination, or at least to have a say in decisions? On the face of things it seems clear that there is; however, it has at times been disputed that the disagreement is illusive. In this paper, we will examine the wishes, views, and feelings of children regarding the supervised contact arrangements and comparison of their views with the opinions of the parents. Moreover, we will examine the extent to which the opinions and views of children regarding the subject are admired and fulfilled as per their wishes in our society. Over the last 20 years, the quality of contact between children absent in care, and their parents have assumed a much higher profile than ever before. Those supervising contact are now expected to keep records on meetings and report on their quality to reviews, courts and, in Scotland, children's panels (Triseliotis 2010, Pp. 128-131). When courts are requested to grant a care, placement or an adoption order, a key question almost always asked is the quality of contact. Depending on the evidence, direct contact may be provided for, reduced or stopped altogether.

The introduction of direct contact after adoption in a few selected cases and contact between nonresident parents and children following divorce or separation have raised awareness of the importance of contact and lead to a number of studies. However, the details surrounding the subject, which affects thousands of children each year, remain under researched (Cashmore 2011, 515-520).

Government statistics show that, in March 2010, 64,400 young people were looked after in England, of whom 73 per cent were placed with foster carers. Over half the children in care (60%) were aged ten or over, 61 per cent were registered under the category of 'abuse or neglect' and 12 per cent under 'family dysfunction' (Sen and Broadhurst 2010, Pp. 137-142). Evidence of emotional disturbance in the care population has consistently been found to be higher than in the general population. Being separated from a primary caregiver and/or experiencing abuse and neglect can have lifelong relational and mental health consequences for children. Moreover, their lives are often subject to instability, with numerous moves, placement breakdowns and poor achievement in all areas of life and development (Mantle et al 2006, ...