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Title of Study Female care leavers' experience of the
staff-child relationship while living in an
intensive support children's home in Northern
Ireland
Abstract
Context
This study used a systematic narrative literature review followed by
qualitative interviews to ask female adults who lived in an Intensive
Support Children's Home about their relationship with staff while living
there.
Their feedback builds on existing knowledge about 'what works' in
residential child care and in particular the impact of relationship factors
between staff and children. It seeks to provide a local and current
response.
Methodology and Methods used
By using qualitative data methods of self-characterisation and semi
structured interviews this study provides valuable insight into the unique
experience of 5 participants.
The methods employed were chosen to elicit information rich responses,
to identify the themes and ways in which to improve the experience of the
staff-child relationship.
Each participant was encouraged to complete a brief written description of
their experience in the home followed by an interview. This written piece
used the self-characterisation technique developed by George Kelly (1955)
within his Personal Construct Theory.
Findings
The literature review identified trust, reciprocity and continuity as impacting
most significantly on the relationship between children and the people who
care for them. These issues were used to shape the service evaluation and
supported the literature review findings.