Recommendations for child welfare care reform in the global south: Perspectives of 542 adults who were separated from parental care during childhood in 12 nations

Abstract

A robust literature has outlined the risks to children separated from parental care. Recently, there has been an effort to reform services to this population. However, the research driving reform has often neglected the voices of adults with care experience, especially those from the Global South. The current research explored recommendations for care reform from 542 adults who had experienced alternative care during childhood in 12 nations in the Global South. Data revealed three themes to improve care: (1) child focus and participation, (2) the need for family placements, and (3) the importance of support services. Implications are discussed.