European trends in foster care. 6th EUSARF Congress, Paris, 1998

Abstract

This article begins by reviewing European trends in the purpose and practice of foster care. In terms of purpose, the increasing emphasis on family support, reunification and normalization is examined. With regard to practice, the growing tendency to place children with relatives whenever possible is discussed, along with the opposite trend towards the professionalization of foster parents. Consideration is then given to important issues concerning anti-oppressive practice. This is followed by a discussion of the contemporary meaning of foster care, which culminates in a definition of foster care that has relevance for most European countries. The concluding section highlights key messages for foster care policy and practice.