New research into kinship care in Scotland and Ireland
Researchers at CELCIS, the Centre of Excellence for Children’s Care and Protection, and Trinity College, University of Dublin, have published a new comparative study on the emergence of formal kinship care in Scotland and Ireland.
Published in Children and Youth Services Review, the study traces key policy developments in how formal kinship care has evolved in both nations. It shows how in recent years, formal kinship care has emerged as a critical part of many care systems, often being the ‘first option’ for children who can no longer live with their parents.
Dr Louise Hill, Evidence and Policy Lead at CELCIS and one of the researchers of the study, said:
'Over decades, kinship families have responded to the needs of their children in providing love and care often in the most difficult circumstances. In responding to the local need of communities, our research shows that kinship care has grown to be of vital importance in the care of children, with children reporting feeling loved, cared for and a strong sense of belonging.’
To further contribute to local and international understandings of the development of kinship care, the researchers welcome comments and views from people who have direct experience of kinship care, kinship carers, social workers and others with an interest in this area.
For further information please contact: louise.hill@strath.ac.uk