'Learning to LUMP it?' How to improve the mental health of children in public care. Is it just a matter of building resilience?

Abstract

This paper argues that before promoting resilience in young people in public care in England and Wales, we need to tackle the structural problems in the system that has been set up to safeguard and promote their well being. Currently this system places looked after children at further risk of poor mental health. Key structural factors and possible ways to reduce their impact are discussed before strategies to promote resilience and better mental health among children who are looked after by the state are outlined.