EOI called for study into kids in care

Research agencies are invited to apply to be part of a five-year study into the lives of children in out-of-home care (OOHC).

Expressions of interest are sought for a research group to interview foster carers on the social, emotional and cognitive development of children in their care. Applications close 29 October 2009.

The study will help guide improvements to OOHC services in NSW. It aims to involve at least 1,000 children in care across three separate age categories – infants under one, four to five year olds and 12 to 13 year olds.

Data from the study will be compared with a comparison group of kids in the Commonwealth’s longitudinal study of Australian children called Growing up in Australia.

A team from the University of Chicago will help design the study and lead the analysis of the information about the experiences and outcomes children and young people in care.

The study is an important part of Community Services activities to improve outcomes for those in care under Keep Them Safe.

Contact Inga Jacobsen for more information on 02 9716 2226 or visit www.community.nsw.gov.au/EOI.