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Safety under scrutiny: How children and young people perceive safety in residential care settings

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  • Pohl, Carina

Abstract

This article explores how children living in residential child and youth welfare facilities in Switzerland perceive safety within these institutions. Although residential care is intended to protect children from harm, many children still experience violence, neglect, and unsafety within these settings. Drawing on qualitative interviews with children aged 8–14, the study investigates how safety is experienced in relation to physical spaces, institutional structures, and relationships with professionals. The findings reveal a dual perception of residential care as both safe and unsafe. Key factors influencing children’s sense of safety include protection from external and internal threats, the ability to withdraw from or remain exposed to certain situations and individuals, and the quality and reliability of relationships with professionals.

Suggested Citation

  • Pohl, Carina, 2026. "Safety under scrutiny: How children and young people perceive safety in residential care settings," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 183(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:183:y:2026:i:c:s0190740925005730
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2025.108690
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