Problems, Obstacles, and Guidelines for the Development of Foster Family Services, Department of Children and Youth, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security

Abstract

           The purpose of this research was to study the problems, obstacles, and guidelines for the development of kinship foster family services in childcare centers of the Department of Children and Youth, Ministry of Social Development, and Human Security through the use of qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through structured interviews of the Department of Children and Youth involved in foster family practice with a group of 12 personnel, divided into 2 groups: 1) 2 executives, the Director of the Child Adoption Center and the Director of the Foster Family Work Group 2) 10 foster family workers. The results of this study showed that the problem of service provision is insufficient budget to support the foster family in terms of the amount that is inconsistent with the current socio-economic condition. The amount of support is currently inadequate to the qualifying prospects with kinship foster families and frequent staff changes affect relationship building, trust, and continuity in working with foster families. Most of the staff followed the manual but lacked integration of other resources. In addition to financial support, the guidelines for the development of foster family services found that (1) Regulations for operating and providing assistance to foster families should be developed following the current social situation. (2) The competence of officers should be developed in the fields of laws, regulations, knowledge, and required skills to work with children and foster families. (3) Coordination with localities should be implemented to increase activities that promote knowledge, relationships, or adjustments of family and children.