Parent-Child Visitation Post-Care Order: A Deep Dive into Parental Capacity and Support Systems

Аннотация

This study explores the factors influencing a parent’s capacity to attend visitations after a care order is imposed on their child. A qualitative approach was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 30 participants, including 15 parents who had experienced a care order, 10 social workers, and 5 legal professionals. The research identifies key psychological, emotional, socioeconomic, and logistical barriers that impact visitation attendance, including anxiety, depression, financial difficulties, and lack of support services. Findings suggest that emotional distress and socioeconomic strain significantly hinder parental participation, while access to structured support services, such as counseling and transportation assistance, positively influences visitation engagement. The study highlights the importance of a collaborative approach involving social services, legal professionals, and mental health support to enhance parental capacity and improve outcomes for family reunification. These insights underscore the need for comprehensive, multifaceted interventions to support parents in meeting the demands of the care order system and restoring their relationships with their children.