This book presents a detailed evaluation of the government-led Quality Protects initiative in England, aimed at improving conditions and outcomes for looked-after children.
This evaluation was constructed by comparing the experiences of a "difficult to manage" group of 150 such children: some living in foster care, some in children's homes and some in residential schools for children with behavioural, emotional and social difficulties. Three anonymous local authorities and eight residential schools took part. Research was carried out in two stages, with nine months between them.
The research is based on the principle of gathering data and making observations on it, rather than simply testing existing theory. It includes interviews with social workers, heads of care and the young people.
As well as containing details for fellow researchers, for whom the publication may be especially appropriate, the book offers brief and clear summary points for each chapter, together with helpful explanations of statistical mechanisms for the more casual reader. I found these points invaluable with regard to the chapter on support costs, which, for me, was otherwise indecipherable.
Children's service leaders, policy makers and those involved in the study of social work and public care will find this book beneficial.
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