Special Guardianship Orders: A Q study.

Woodward, Katie, COMBES, Helen and MELIA, Yvonne (2020) Special Guardianship Orders: A Q study. The British Journal of Social Work. ISSN 0045-3102 (In Press)

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Abstract or description

Aim: In 2005, Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) came into law in England enabling carers to take full legal responsibility for all aspects of a child’s care, and to therefore provide a foundation to build a life-long permanent relationship. To date, little research has been carried out with a particular emphasis on SGO’s, and the impact that they have.
Design: Q-Methodology explored carers’ experiences and perceptions of SGOs over time, from the point at which carers applied for the SGO until now. Ten participants each completed three Q-Sorts by way of sorting 47 statements.
Findings: A five-factor model emerged including: 1) The child is part of the family: a positive experience despite limited knowledge, 2) In the dark, obliged, and unsupported, 3) Lots of training opportunities and managing well, 4) Giving up the caring role is not an option… but having a supportive family is helpful, 5) Confused, angry, and don’t know who to trust.
Conclusion: This study provides an insight into the experiences of carers granted SGOs. The similarities and differences in these viewpoints are discussed. The findings suggest that more time and preparation is needed to ensure that carers are better prepared to manage any difficulties that may arise.

Item Type:	Article
Faculty:	School of Life Sciences and Education > Psychology
Depositing User:	Helen COMBES
Date Deposited:	06 Oct 2020 15:46
Last Modified:	13 May 2022 01:38
URI:	https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/6558

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