Abstract

Friendship networks and relationships with communities are important parts of the lives
of looked after children and young people (LACYP). Much of legislation, policy, practice
and research focuses on „the care experience‟ itself, as distinct from young people‟s
everyday lives and their connectivity with wider environments. Considerable lack of
understanding remains about what being „in care‟ means. This often results in prejudice
and stigma. Groups set up specifically for LACYP offer opportunities to develop
networks and relationships with adults and young people, and to raise awarenesses.
Transitions may happen early and be experienced frequently by LACYP, however, they
can offer new opportunities and positive relationships with different people. Meaningful
participation in communities such as schools is an important factor in developing
stability in relationships. Concepts of participation and empowerment form part of an
ecological framework which locates the community context as central to building
resilience for LACYP. What constitutes community cohesion and connectedness for
LACYP requires a fine balance between the interests of protection and participation.
Successful interconnectedness is a matter of shared concern for all. The key challenge
remains that of identifying how stable community relationships for LACYP may be
strengthened and supported to dynamic mutual benefit.