The University of Oxford report, commissioned by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, said the most effective forms of care for such children were specialist fostering and parenting support.
"Residential treatment and play therapy were not found to be effective," in comparison, it added.
The report, Systematic Reviews of Interventions Following Physical Abuse, said the government should prioritise funding on therapy that is "supported by strong evidence for improving outcomes".
But Janet Rich, children's services development officer at the National Care Association, said the report was "frightening" in terms of its potential influence on funding for therapeutic care.
She said: "This is part of an increasing feeling in government and councils that foster care and family support is best. It is for many children, but not for all. Also, specialist foster care is seen as cheaper than residential care."
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
