Abstract
Nothing has been published in Ireland on the perception of aftercare workers on their role and how this influences service delivery. This study aims to partially address this deficit by examining the professional culture of aftercare workers in both the statutory and voluntary sectors. The study considers the influence professional culture has on service delivery and whether Ireland requires a statutory leaving and aftercare service to ensure an equitable and socially just provision of aftercare services.A theoretical framework comprising of four main theoretical approaches of relationship-based practice; social inclusion - independence versus interdependence; focal theory and Bridges (2004) model of transition; and Schein’s (2010) model of organisational culture, frames this study. Based on what literature was revealed following a structured literature review, a conceptual Model of Professional Culture Formation (MoPCF) is developed and employed within the study.
The findings suggest that the voice of the worker is muted within an arena where there is competition for the voice of various stakeholders to be heard. The dyadic nature of the critical relationship between workers and children and young people in care and aftercare is identified as is the importance of education and training with regard to workers’ wellbeing, confidence and efficacy. Current caseloads are set too high and are inhibiting relational work being accomplished by aftercare workers. A critical distinction between organisational culture and climate is identified.
The study finds that legislative change to a statutory entitlement to aftercare support is necessary to improve Irish aftercare services.
| Date of Award | Jul 2019 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | John Pinkerton (Supervisor) |