Is contact with birth parents beneficial to children in non-kinship foster care? A scoping review of the evidence

Out of Home Care (OOHC), Intervention programs, Family Reunification, Literature Review

This Children and Youth Services Review report analysed the effects of face-to-face contact with birth parents for children in non-kinship foster care from 21 studies. The report provides insights into the variables that encouraged family reunification and improvement in children's wellbeing.

Looked after children’s right to contact with birth parents: An Australian study

Program Evaluation, Family Reunification, Journal article

This study in Child and Family Social Work examines barriers to meaningful contact between children and birth parents, as identified by legal and social work practitioners in Queensland. The study reveals four key themes: system-driven responses, poor relationships and mistrust, lack of culturally responsive practice, and exclusion of parents from the consultation process. The findings provide valuable insights for practitioners working to improve contact arrangements for children and their birth parents.