By Elisabeth Pugh

In the late 1960s, the child care service went through significant changes, and further transformations were on the horizon following the Seebohm Committee’s report. However, amidst these changes, the central tasks of child care remained clear: preventive work, reception and care of children, collaboration with parents, selection and support of foster parents, residential staff work, and adoption.

Originally published in 1968, this insightful book by Elisabeth Pugh delves into each of these core tasks, examining the critical role played by the child care staff within local authority departments at the time. While the context may have changed, many of the arguments and principles discussed in this book are still relevant to the work of child care organizations today.

With its well-researched content and thoughtful analysis, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of child care practices and explores the challenges faced by child care professionals. Whether you are a social worker, child care practitioner, or simply interested in the field of child care, this book provides valuable insights into the past, present, and future of child care services.

Elisabeth Pugh brings her expertise and experience in child care to the forefront, offering readers a unique perspective on the development of child care services. Her meticulous research and attention to detail make this book not only an informative read but also a compelling one.

One of the key strengths of this book is its focus on preventive work. Pugh argues that by addressing the root causes of family difficulties and providing support early on, child care professionals can reduce the need for children to enter care. This preventive approach proves to be effective not only in ensuring the well-being of children but also in promoting stronger family units.

Furthermore, Pugh highlights the importance of collaboration with parents during the period of care. She emphasizes the need for open communication, trust-building, and involving parents in decision-making processes. Through such collaborative efforts, child care professionals can create a supportive environment that leads to better outcomes for children and their families.

The author’s exploration of foster care and adoption is also commendable. Pugh delves into the selection process for foster parents and the ongoing support they require in their role. She recognizes the significant impact that foster parents can have on a child’s life and emphasizes the need for continuous training and guidance in this area.

In addition, Pugh addresses the challenges faced by residential staff and provides valuable insights into effective strategies for supporting children in residential care. With compassion and understanding, she sheds light on the unique needs of children in this setting and offers practical solutions for providing a nurturing environment.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of child care. Pugh’s expertise and in-depth analysis make it a valuable resource for professionals working in child care services, as well as students and academics seeking to deepen their understanding of child welfare.

Order your copy of this insightful book today and embark on a journey through the history and evolution of child care services. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by child care professionals in the past, you will be better equipped to contribute to the future of child care.

Product Details

• Publisher: Routledge; 1st edition (February 13, 2023)
• Language: English
• Pages: 126
• ISBN-10: 1032440694
• ISBN-13: 978-1032440699