Vulnerable Children and the Law

This book comprises a collection of academic articles on the social issues and challenges facing professionals working ?in child protection and child welfare both in the UK and internationally. The authors identify children as global citizens and highlight the political and social changes needed to ensure the rights of these children are delivered efficiently ?and effectively.

The chapters on child welfare and family identity were of special interest to me, and in particular, the chapter on the Australian research arguing that all professionals (both in social care and in the legal system) involved in the child protection system need to rethink their approach towards high levels of contact with very young children in care. Their argument for a shift of focus from quantity of contact to better quality of contact in the interests of the child is a compelling one that is currently attracting attention from more senior members of the UK judiciary. 

By including references to the Family Justice Review report and the Munro Review of Child Protection, it provides a current and thought-provoking text which should prove an invaluable resource for all policymakers, social workers and lawyers working to protect vulnerable children.

Reviewed by Catherine Williams, child protection solicitor, Coram Children’s Legal Centre