Geraghty's presentation focused on bereavement in the secure setting and was commissioned by Northern Ireland's then four health and social services boards.
Young people entering secure care are likely to have multiple needs, often long-standing and deep-seated. In addition, experience of bereavement among young people in secure care is more common than among young people in general.
Notably, Geraghty's research found almost half the young people in the sample had experienced a significant bereavement, but this was noted in the assessments of need on only two occasions and not mentioned at all before this stage, or six months post-secure care/post-assessment.
Geraghty said: "There was little indication in the files of grief work being undertaken with the young people, although interestingly this was commented on favourably by one young resident in secure care. One possible explanation is that social workers see attachment theory as applying more with young children and neglect that aspect of their work with teenagers."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
