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BJSW Advance Access published online on December 13, 2006
British Journal of Social Work, doi:10.1093/bjsw/bcl370
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© The Author 2006. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The British Association of Social Workers. All rights reserved

Article

Black African Children and the Child Protection System

Claudia Bernard 1 * and Anna Gupta 2

1 Senior Lecturer in Social Work, Department of Professional and Community Education, Goldsmiths, University of London
2 Lecturer in Social Work (Child Care), Department of Health and Social Care, Royal Holloway, University of London

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
Claudia Bernard, E-mail: c.bernard{at}gold.ca.uk


  Abstract

This paper explores black African children’s experiences of the child protection system in the UK. The central focus of the paper is a review of the available literature on the social circumstances and environmental influences affecting many black African families involved in the child protection system; specific parenting practices and care-giving environments; and their experiences of social work and other professional interventions aimed at safeguarding and promoting the needs of African children. This paper examines these themes to elucidate the factors that contribute to the provision of effective, culturally competent interventions with black African children at risk of significant harm. It suggests that there are a number of tensions inherent for professionals in working with culturally diverse African families such as reconciling different beliefs and behaviours concerning child-rearing practices; affirming the parenting practices of these families in the engagement process; adopting a strengths-based orientation whilst at the same time safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications for practice.

Keywords: African children, child protection, cultural interpretations, child-rearing practices.
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