| Abstract: | SUMMARY. Professionals in Britain and many other countries have long been concerned about whether children in need, who have to live away from their parents, are best placed in foster or residential settings. The issue has become particularly significant in recent years in view of the adverse publicity surrounding residential childcare. This paper summarises recent British research findings on the role and impact of foster and residential care for children and young people in need. It demonstrates that research conclusions often do not support commonly held public and professional views, particularly regarding the contribution of residential care. |
