ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the life experiences of many looked after and adopted children and the network of people involved in their lives. It focuses on the current position of therapeutic services for vulnerable children and the impact this has on ways. Looked after and adopted children and young people have needs that are often significantly higher than their peers. Recognition of the importance, responsibilities, and potential of such groups of varied professionals and relatives has been incorporated in a number of statutory guidelines and recommendations that relate especially to the care of looked after and adopted children. The Children Act 2004 proposes that there should be co-operation between agencies, with a view to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The Adoption and Children Act 2002 strengthens the original spirit of the Adoption Act 1976 in terms of the duties of the local authority to provide adoption support services.
