Why do children need family based placement?

There are a number of reasons why children and young people can't remain in their own families and need to be "looked after".

• Hospitalisation or illness of one or both parents.


• Inability of parents to cope, need for time out.


• Parents who have drink or drug related problems.


• Abuse or neglect in relation to the child.

The period of time that the child or young person needs to be looked after can vary considerably and it is not always easy to predict the length of placement.

Children and young people who are away from their family environment can become distressed, unsure and can present quite challenging behavior. This is where Carers have to pool their resources to help the children and young people settle down and feel reassured that people care about them.