Therapeutic approaches to social work in residential child care settings: the evaluation

‘Therapeutic approaches’ can help residential child care staff to use a therapeutic perspective in their day-to-day social work with children and young people. Staff in Northern Ireland trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches reported that it had enhanced their practice, particularly their relationships with young people and the consistency of approach taken by staff. Staff reported that there were some limitations to the models, particularly in dealing with physical aggression. Other models such as therapeutic crisis intervention therefore remained an important part of practice. Young people in residential child care were often not aware that a new approach was being used, but had noticed an improved ‘atmosphere’ and decreased use of sanctions for managing poor behaviour. Factors for effective implementation included the provision of training and supporting materials, and wider systems working in a supportive manner, for example careful planning when a young person is first admitted to a home.