An exploration of sibling contact for children in foster care

This research study contributes to research in the area of sibling contact for children in foster care. Undertaken in collaboration with the Irish Foster Care Association in Waterford, this study aims to explore sibling contact based on the retrospective experiences of adults formerly in foster care in Waterford. At present, much of the research on this important topic is based in the United States and the United Kingdom and so does not necessarily relate to the Irish context. This study provides valuable insight into children’s experiences of continued contact with their siblings, from whom they were separated during foster care; looking at the role of legislation and policy, the nature and frequency of contact and the facilitators and barriers to contact in terms of maintaining sibling relationships. As a social work student, this study has important implications for practice and offers recommendations for improving the quality of children’s experiences of contact while in foster care, which has proven to have a significant influence on the development and maintenance of these important relationships