Developing a process for assessment of the emotional and behavioural needs of "looked after" children: The Five Rivers model

Authors: Beckett, C., Cross, R., Hewitt-Taylor, J. and McConnell, P.

Journal: Journal of Children's Services

Volume: 10

Issue: 4

Pages: 324-338

ISSN: 1746-6660

DOI: 10.1108/JCS-06-2014-0032

Abstract:

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe the development process of building an assessment model to assess the emotional and behavioural needs of "looked after children". Design/methodology/approach - The paper is a technical paper developing and evaluating a process for comprehensively assessing children's needs using a combination of three existing tools. Findings - The paper identifies a model to assess "looked after" children and highlights some of the early benefits and challenges which have been encountered using this model. Practical implications - This paper suggests a model and timeframe to ensure that detailed assessments of the mental health of "looked after" children are effectively carried out. Social implications - There is a potential for an improvement in assessment of looked after children that will lead to the identification of appropriate interventions and services. Originality/value - The paper is new in identifying a combination of assessment measures and a timeline to complete these.

Source: Scopus