Living Away From Home - Studies in Residential Care Series

Working in Children's Homes

by Dorothy Whitaker, Lesley Archer, and Leslie Hicks

Published 27 April 1998

Working in Children s Homes is one of an important series of bookson residential care based on research sponsored by the Departmentof Health. This book draws on extensive research conducted over athree-year period. The authors address the challenges andcomplexities facing those who work with and in children s homes. Onthe basis of interviews and discussions with heads of homes andstaff groups, the authors explore the tasks which face staffgroups, the rationale for their procedures, their sources ofstresses and rewards, and the everyday ups and downs characteristicof residential care. Key tasks are discussed in depth, such asworking with individual children, the mix of young people, managersand others in their own organisation, and the wider networkssurrounding the home and the child. Characteristics of goodpractice are named, and factors which facilitate good practice andgood outcomes are identified. Valuable recommendations are madefor
* implementing and modifying procedures to improve workingpractices

* staff selection and training

* support required by staff groups

* procedures and communication channels in the larger organisationand surrounding networks
Working in Children s Homes provides a comprehensive commentary onthe nature of care and working practices related to children shomes.It is essential reading for all those concerned with the careof children and young people in residential settings.