Workshop stresses family-based rehabilitation for children in Kerala
The Women and Child Development department organised a two-day programme to prioritise family care over institutionalisation for children in need of protection.
The Women and Child Development department recently organised a state-level planning and training programme in Thiruvananthapuram focused on family-based rehabilitation for children. According to The Hindu, the two-day workshop emphasised prioritising family-based care and using institutionalisation only when necessary for the best interests of children.
Records show that 7,719 children live in 417 child care institutions (CCIs) across 14 districts in the state. While family members visit 6,411 of these children, limitations have been found in providing support to the parents of 1,308 children.
The workshop discussed strengthening families through programmes like Kaval Plus and providing financial and social support. It also explored alternative options such as care by relatives, foster care, group foster care, and the adoption of eligible children.
Participants categorised children in CCIs into groups: 3,890 who could return to families, 1,436 for foster care, 872 for group foster care, and 226 for adoption. Individual care plans will be re-examined and social investigation reports prepared to find the most suitable options.
A time-bound action plan was prepared to ensure a planned and safe transition from institutional care. The workshop also decided to collect details of representatives from various departments and institutions to improve coordination.