This report from Research in Practice examines the wellbeing of children in care in the UK and the approaches to measuring wellbeing.
Purpose of this briefing
The aim of this briefing is to:
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support effective use of existing datasets to monitor and understand aspects of wellbeing for looked after children
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present SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely) measures and validated assessment tools which have the potential to address gaps in these data
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explain how to measure outcomes efficiently and effectively; to help improve practice, improve services and ensure public money is not wasted.
This briefing will consider:
1. existing datasets and measures to monitor looked after children’s wellbeing
2. alternative measures of wellbeing and how to identify them
3. capturing subjective wellbeing and the child’s voice – surveys and tools
4. how to gather and use data effectively.
The intended audience for this briefing comprises strategic leaders in local authorities, those commissioning or providing services for looked after children and Directors of Children’s Services.