Title:
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Now and then: reflections on relationships from adults who were in care and their carer
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This research explores dyadic retrospective perspectives of young people previously
in care and their carers to gain an understanding of how relationships formed during
foster placements were maintained following the transition to independence.
Whilst existing literature explores vanous outcomes of being in foster care, the
evidence base is limited regarding foster carers providing ongoing support for young
people leaving their care. With social support imperative for this 'vulnerable
population' factors affecting positive relationships should be considered. Together
with this, there is limited research investigating the impact that relationships in care
.have on present and future relationships and how components of care have affected
current life for those previously in care.
The present study conducted in-depth individual interviews with five young people
who had previously been in foster care and their carer/s who they had maintained
contact with and described positive relationships with. The cross-sectional research
employed a qualitative approach using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
(lP A) to make sense of the lived experiences of young people and carers.
Analysis of the data yielded three main themes for young people; Building
foundations, Belonging and Life as we know it. Three main themes emerged from the
carers data; Being a parent, Adjusting to life together and Watching them grow.
Results of this research highlighted similarities and differences both within and
between the dyads. The findings increased the understanding of factors that young
people and carers believe are imperative to forming successful relationships in care
and maintaining these when they leave. Results obtained provide an insight regarding
aspects of care and exiting care that require further facilitation from services and
professionals involved in order to assist these transitions.
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