Ending Institutional Care: Questions and answers

Institutional care is a type of residential care for large groups of children. It is characterized by a one-size-fits-all approach, and the same service is often provided to all children irrespective of their gender, age and abilities. In many cases, the service provided is depersonalized as strict routines are followed to enable a small number of staff to deliver basic services. Children living in institutional care are also often isolated from the community, unable to maintain a relationship with their parents and extended families.

This publication includes common questions and answers on the implications of institutional care and why it should be ended.