A systemic approach to improving the engagement of fathers in child safeguarding

Scourfield, Jonathan Bryn ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6218-8158, Smail, Pat and Butler, Dan 2015. A systemic approach to improving the engagement of fathers in child safeguarding. Child Abuse Review 24 (2) , pp. 129-139. 10.1002/car.2333

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Abstract

Increasing the involvement of fathers in child safeguarding is an issue which has seen relatively little practice innovation in mainstream services. This article concerns a bold attempt to improve practice in this domain through a systemic approach. Key findings are presented from an evaluation of a Fatherhood Institute project in six English local authorities. The intervention was positively received and the self-efficacy of children's services staff improved on most measures as a result of training. However, not all planned aspects of the project could be implemented. The article reflects on the challenge of achieving practice change in these areas – both child safeguarding and engaging fathers – where established practices are deep-rooted. There is also reflection on the challenge of public service innovation in a context of austerity.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
Publisher:	Wiley-Blackwell
ISSN:	0952-9136
Funders:	Fatherhood Institute
Date of Acceptance:	4 March 2014
Last Modified:	04 Dec 2024 15:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/64199

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