Assessment and Action Records: Will they Promote Good Parenting?

Abstract

In this article the authors seek to provide a critical look at Looking After children: Good Parenting and Good Outcomes (Department of Health, 1995). They welcome the sentiments underpinning this major contribution, which recognizes the many disadvantages faced by children and young people who are looked after by local authorities, and acknowledge that local authorities have not been positive parents of those in their care. The writers also acknowledge the thoroughness which has gone into the detail of the Action and Assessment Records contained in the above pack. What is questioned is the normative view of parenting and family life which is seen to be at the heart of these documents and the lack of consideration of the resourcing of action plans. The checklist approach is criticized for the way in which it will enhance the bureaucratic nature of being in public care, which in tum affects the relative power positions of parents and children in relation to the local authority and which will impact on the development of a partnership model of care. The writers conclude that children and young people in care are but one group of young people facing disadvantage and deprivation in British society. An examination of their plight and how to address it need to be based within a clear framework of children's rights and a recognition of the power adults hold over them.