ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the key themes and intentions which are integral to the Act, and draws out those aspects of its provision which have a direct bearing on residential services for children and young people. The 1989 Children Act sought to bring together most private and public law relating to children and to remove anomalies and overlaps. The Act interpreted the meaning of 'family' in a much wider sense to include, 'not only blood relatives but others who are important because the child has been living with them'. The 1989 Act details a number of specific services which provide channels for children and young people's views to be expressed. There are details concerning the regular inspection, and registration with the local authority, of all forms of accommodation which provide for more than three children and/or young people. Information and explanations must be given about the local authority's powers and duties, including the procedures for addressing complaints.
