Peer violence in foster and residential care

Peer violence in looked after populations can have a highly detrimental impact on young people’s welfare and outcomes. A small number of studies and inquiries provide limited evidence regarding residential settings, while even less is known about peer violence in foster care. This study will consider the evidence on the nature and extent of the problem in foster care and will examine good practice in preventing and managing peer violence in foster care and residential placements.

A rapid review will identify literature on interventions in foster and residential care. It will also seek to locate evidence on the nature and extent of the problem in foster care. Building on the rapid review, examples of good or promising local practice in prevention and managing of peer violence both in foster care and residential placements will be identified. The models and initiatives will be evaluated using a range of factors to determine which constitute good practice. The views of young people about peer violence in foster care will also be sought as research in this area is lacking. We will interview a small group of care leavers with experiences of foster care who will be able to provide insights into experiences of peer dynamics and violence including views on prevention and intervention.