Exploring How Social Workers Experience and Perceive the Participation of Care Experienced Children and Young People: A Qualitative Pilot Study

Abstract

The last few decades have seen increased recognition of the importance of involving children and young people in all matters relating to their care experience, yet despite a range of opportunities, this population continues to feel unheard. Social Workers are involved in supporting, promoting, and advising Care Experienced Children and Young People (CECYP) and as such may have experience into why this area remains difficult. This research sought to understand how social workers experience and perceive the participation of CECYP. Qualitative methodology used semi-structured interviews from a sample group of three to gain the experience of the participants. Thematic analysis generated four themes: Social workers’ experience of the voice of CECYP, oversight and impact, creating ways to engage and internal and external dialogue. The value of the study emphasises the experience of the participants in understanding their own perceptions of conflict when hearing and responding to the voice of CECYP, the potential pitfalls, and any changes needed in practice. The findings highlight that while the voice of CECYP is heard, the message itself is difficult to decipher or acted upon, due to the circumstances of CECYP at that moment in time and the constraints imposed on both parties.