This revised edition details organisational systems and structures that are part of the assessment and planning process for looked after children. This is closely interwoven with discussions about their emotional development, educational, health and cultural needs and how these needs can be met through social work and a range of other services. The views of looked after children are highlighted through case studies and summaries of research findings, and the range of skills and knowledge necessary to support looked after children through the key events they experience, including loss, change and the development of new relationships, are explained and illustrated.

Author Biography

Lucille Allain is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Middlesex University and a Programme Leader for the social work pre-qualifying programmes. She has 18 years of child and family social work experience in child protection, looked after children and disabled children. Her experience spans working as a social worker, manager and in commissioning and developing new services. Her current research focuses on social work practice and young people leaving care.