New research to improve care for vulnerable children

Our young people's mental health research centre has received over £300,000 funding for a new research project to improve the lives of children in care.

Out of the 84,000 children in care across England, over 10,000 live in children’s homes, with a large number in the Northwest. These children are among the most vulnerable in society; however, there are currently no clear guidelines on how to provide trauma-informed care in these homes.

The NEST study - Nurturing Environments for Shaping Trauma-informed care and recovery in homes for cared for children - is led by Dr Sarah Parry, clinical psychologist at Pennine Care and senior clinical lecturer at University of Manchester.

The 28-month study will create and pilot a practical toolkit with six children’s homes in the Northwest to provide better support for children who have experienced trauma.

Dr Parry explains: “Many children who enter the care system have faced difficult experiences such as abuse, neglect, or loss. Moving into care can add to their distress, as they are often placed in unfamiliar settings, away from people they know.

“Trauma-informed care means understanding how trauma affects children and creating a safe and supportive environment for them. This includes helping children build trust and healthy relationships while supporting staff to care for them.

“Without this kind of care, children who have been through trauma are at higher risk of facing exploitation, more trauma, and poor mental and physical health as they grow up.”

The project has received over £300,000 funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s research programme for social care (RfSC).

Emma Ford, children’s social worker and strategic leader for the Northwest at Warrington Borough Council said: “This is an exciting and much needed research study. We hope it improves the daily lived experience of our children and helps us, as professionals, learn about what makes a difference from the views and experiences of our children.”

The NEST study will work with children, staff, and other experts to develop the toolkit. Once developed and tested, the team will share the toolkit and research findings with care providers, local councils, and policymakers; helping to raise standards and improve the lives of children in care.

For more information about the NEST study or to get involved, visit penninecare.nhs.uk/research/nest or email pcn-tr.nest@nhs.net