Children's participation in LAC reviews: a study in one English local authority

Abstract

Although the law in England and Wales requires a child's wishes and feelings to be heard in LAC (Looked After Children) reviews, there remains limited research into how far this is achieved. This study interviewed 25 children and 16 foster carers to explore how well children understand and take part in reviews, and what factors impede this. The study found that levels of participation, as experienced by children and foster carers, were very low and the methods used were relatively ineffective. Children experienced significant barriers in engaging with the review process. The paper concludes that, as a vehicle of children's participation, LAC reviews are still not working well and calls for more attention to the views of children and young people and to the effectiveness of LAC reviews.

Exploring the essence of enabling child participation within child protection services

“…In recent years, there have been several attempts worldwide to amplify the role of children in the decision‐making processes within child protection services (Berrick, Dickens, Pösö, & Skivenes, ; Pert, Diaz, & Thomas, ). Children are more and more seen as individuals with a right to have a voice in matters concerning their own lives and as knowledgeable social actors who have active influence on their environment (Prout & James, ).…”

“…Recent studies within child welfare conclude that child participation includes not just the child's opportunities to express his or her feelings and wishes and how much attention is paid to the child's perspectives but also the child's understanding of the reasons for the decision‐making process, the issues at stake, and the options available. Furthermore, it also includes having a say on how participation should be given form (Pert et al, ; Pölkki, Vornanen, Pursiainen, & Riikonen, ; van Bijleveld et al, ). For instance, the study of Pölkki et al () of children who were placed into foster care showed that although participation in matters concerning them is very significant to children, they do not always want to be active participants in the formal meetings.…”

Barriers children face complaining about social work practice: A study in one English local authority

“…Children in care, like all children, must be provided with stable and loving homes where the rules and boundaries are fair, consistent, and appropriate for their age. Furthermore, children in care must feel a sense of belonging, an age‐appropriate sense of empowerment, control over their own destiny, and a feeling of being loved and valued (Pert, Diaz, & Thomas, ).…”

Nurturing the virtuous circle: Looked After Children's participation in reviews, a cyclical and relational process

“…The importance of timing and venue for children and young people has been identified by other studies (Ofsted ; Pert et al . ). The differences between the perceptions and priorities of children and professionals may suggest these important factors are not always recognized by professionals as crucial to good practice in enhancing children's participation.…”

“…For example, Pert et al . () found that for some young people attendance at reviews may not be an active choice, instead they feel it is something they have to do.…”