Scope of Social Work Practice in Childcare Social Welfare Institutions: Policies, Practices and Problems

Children deprived of their primary care are among the most vulnerable segments of the society exposed to violence, exploitation, trafficking, discrimination and all other types of abuse. United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children (1989) acknowledges the rights of such children and hold member states responsible for provision of alternative care considering the best interest of the children in accordance with their national laws. United Nations’ guideline on alternative care were also adopted by UN General Assembly for effective implementation of international instruments regarding the shelter, protection, development, and rehabilitation of children deprived from their primary care. Pakistan, being a member state and signatory to these UN treaties, is bound to reflect the provisions of these international instruments in the domestic policies and execute the same in true letter and spirit. &Evidences prove that if not professionally managed, children living and growing up in institutions face difficulties in learning and developing social skills.&In Punjab province, different institutions in public private sectors are providing residential services to children deprived of their primary care. However, the performance of these institutions has been questioned repeatedly due to the constantly reported child abuse cases. Present study aims to explore factors responsible for the current state of affairs by getting views of both practitioners and the beneficiaries. Following a qualitative perspective of research, in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide with management and resident children of childcare institutions. The findings of the study identified multiple policy and administrative issues affecting the working of these institutions and helped in understanding the existing situation of these institutions in Punjab Province. This study will be helpful in determining the needs and issues faced by the case managers as well as the children to serve their best interest.