Abstract

This presentation focuses on the role of ‘community’ in the lives of looked after children and young people. The research set out to establish what is known currently about these areas. The project forms part of the ‘Connected Communities’
research programme funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. There were two main aspects to the research, namely a scoping study and consultation workshops with young people aged over 12 years. The study focuses on the dynamic relationships between looked after children and their communities, the contribution which young people make, the positive value which they place on being ‘in care’, the role of resilience and the influence of transitions. Friendship networks and relationships with communities are seen to be important parts of the lives of young people and meaningful participation is a key factor in developing stability in relationships. Concepts of participation and empowerment form
part of an ecological framework which locates the community context as central to building resilience for looked after children and young people.