Case management and outcomes for neglected children: A five year follow-up study of neglected children who have been looked after and reunified

At present social workers have very little research to inform them about which kinds of case management or combinations of services keep children safe and contribute to improved outcomes in cases of neglect. In addition, little is known about how the more serious cases are handled when neglected children are removed from their families or in which of these cases reunification with their parents is likely to be successful. This study builds on Elaine Farmer’s current research on reunification by following up the sub-group of neglect cases (122 cases supplemented by 58 additional cases making 180 in all) over a five-year period.

The study will examine case management and links between interventions and outcomes for the children since the case was first referred up to the five-year follow-up point. Multivariate analysis will provide information about the key factors which distinguish between better and poorer outcomes for the children and parents at the five-year follow-up point and the characteristics of neglected children and their families for whom return is very unlikely to work. In-depth interviews with children and parents will explore their views of appropriate parenting, what constitutes neglect and which services and approaches engage them most effectively.

The research will involve case file reviews and interviews with social workers, parents and children and the use of some standardized measures.

Funder: Department for Education formerly Department for Children, Schools and Families.