Children in care who frequently move around are twice as likely to experience mental health difficulties
Submitted by Cody Varnish
Children in the UK care system often experience changes in where they live, moving between foster homes, residential placements, or back to their birth families. This new research is the first to systematically combine data from multiple studies to examine the link between such 'placement instability' and mental health among children and young people in care in the UK.
The researchers synthesised findings from fifteen UK-based studies, which included data from 6,905 care-experienced children and young people. These studies investigated the relationship between placement changes and mental health, exploring a range of outcomes, including emotional and behavioural difficulties, self-harm and psychiatric diagnoses.
We found that children and young people who experienced frequent moves within care were more than twice as likely to face mental health difficulties compared with those in stable placements. This suggests that placement instability is a key factor associated with the high level of mental health needs often seen among children in care, with nearly half living with a diagnosable mental health disorder.
While the review found a clear and consistent link between placement changes and poor mental health, it is not clear what the direction of this relationship is. We think that the association is likely bidirectional, with poor mental health both contributing to, and being made worse by, instability in care.
I’m a parent - what does this mean for me?
As a carer of a looked-after child, you play an important role in providing stability, consistency and trusted relationships, which can help children feel safe and supported. Children who have experienced several placement moves may be more likely to need additional emotional and mental health support. If you notice changes in a child's mood, behaviour or wellbeing, it is important to raise these concerns early and work with social workers, schools and health professionals to ensure the right support is in place. Remember that you are not expected to manage complex mental health needs on your own.
I’m a clinician – what does this mean for me?
When working with care-experienced children and young people, it is important to consider placement history alongside current mental health needs. Children who have experienced multiple placement moves may particularly benefit from early assessment, regular monitoring and timely access to support when they are ready to engage. Working closely with foster carers, social workers and education professionals can help ensure care is coordinated and responsive, with the aim of improving wellbeing and supporting stable placements wherever possible.