LIVING IN FOSTER CARE AND IN A CHILDREN’S HOME: VOICES OF CHILDREN AND THEIR CAREGIVERS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15270/45-2-215Abstract
Foster care is clearly seen as the preferred option in alternate care of the vulnerable child inSouth Africa and internationally (Kiraly, 2001; Long, 2007; McKay, 2002; Morei, 2002). The
Children’s Act 38/2005 clearly prioritizes a foster care placement over a child and youth care
centre of which a Children’s Home is a part (Section 46(1)(a) – Children’s Act 38/2005 –
(http://www.acts.co.za). Given the steady decline in traditional family living due to amongst
other factors HIV/AIDS, poverty and unemployment in South Africa, the dominant view of
family care being prioritized may not always be feasible. This paper provides researched
evidence of lived experiences in both alternative care placements to deepen understanding of
best practice options for alternate care planning and management.
The objectives of the research study were:
• to explore children’s experiences of foster care and the Children’s Home placement.
• to explore experiences and challenges of foster parents and caregivers in Children’s Homes
in caring for vulnerable children.
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