In West Lothian we have prioritised looked after children as one of the most vulnerable and at risk groups in society. Outcomes for these children tend to be poorer than their peers. Many end up homeless, entering the criminal justice arena and have mental health issues. The national Getting it right for every child approach asserts that parents are (or can become) the most significant contributors to meeting a child’s needs. This is the same for parents of children who are looked after away from home. However, those regularly working with such children and their families accept that these parents need additional support, both to allow them to effectively contribute to the care planning process, and to acquire or develop essential parenting skills.
