A matter of trust: A mixed methods study on the reunification of children “who are looked-after” with their birth parents.

Abstract

This thesis explores the process by which children “who are looked-after” are reunited with birth parents that have previously abused; neglected or been to some extent culpable or complicit in the harming of their child. Reunification as a practice has previously associated with high rates or re-abuse and neglect; and as a result, a high proportion of children returning to care. This study aimed to further explore the process of reunification in light of policy changes introduced in the last ten years, and from the perspectives of parents and children and young people going through the experience. Drawing on empirical data from the review of 100 cases in which reunification was attempted, this study found that the key predictors of reunification success was where birth parents were perceived as being engaged by professionals; children returned home as part of their care plan, and often to a family dynamic which was different to the one they had been removed from. Where reunification breakdown, and referrals to services post-reunification where breakdown did not occur, happened the children involved were more likely to be teenagers with complex needs and behaviours, where services had not adequately addressed these factors pre-return home. Seven case studies were developed through participant observation: semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis. These case studies are discussed at length and highlight that major barriers to engagement with social workers from the perspectives of both parents and CYP is their previous ‘poor’ experience with services that they experience as unhelpful. Where social workers act in ways which re-affirm poor perceptions of social care more generally, the relationship with the individual worker and social care more generally, remains damaged. In some instances, social work professionals were able to overcome these barriers and develop more trusting relationships with mothers and CYP. In these cases, their perceptions of the individual worker were more positive, and they were also more likely to reach out in the future if issues arose; and to be honest and open about concerns as part of their assessment. Trust was key to ensuring positive outcomes associated with reunification, and in adding an element of futureproofing. It was also more apparent where social work professionals were perceived as legitimate by mothers and CYP. Thus, the research makes a significant and unique contribution to knowledge by further extending our understanding of reunification as a practice. It highlights the importance of engagement, and more specifically the development of trusting relationships through legitimate practice, as key factors associated with success.