ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the value perspectives that underlie family centred group care (FCGC) and traditional group child care and then presents a definition of FCGC and the key assumption of this model of group care. In the context of the model of FCGC, the emphasis is on family defined in terms of biological parenting and the ties to extended family and kinship networks and individual identity that arises from this point of origin. FCGC practice is characterised by institutional structures, services, supports and professional practices designed to preserve and, whenever possible, to strengthen connections between child(ren) in placement and their birth parents and family members. Child and family are irrevocably linked and the best long term interests of the child can only be guaranteed by ensuring that birth parent(s) and family members continue to be respected and have a place in their child(ren)’s daily life.
