The Place of Foster Care in the Continuum of Care Choices: A review of the evidence for policymakers

This report is the first in a series of two reports intended to educate and guide policy makers and programme designers in safe and effective foster care in low and middle income countries. This report is intended to assist policy makers; it aims to assist both states’ and NGOs’ decisions on whether to invest in foster care, and in the kinds of supportive services needed to make foster care safe and effective.

Foster care, as suggested by the report’s findings, can be an important part of the care opportunities available to children. When administered appropriately, with the correct mechanisms, structures, and resources, foster care allows children to remain in a loving and caring family while authorities work towards family reintegration or permanent alternatives.