The master's thesis examines the issue of removal of preschool children from their biological
families and their placement in the Crisis Centre for Children "Palčica" (hereinafter referred to
as KCO). The study is based on the theoretical foundations of child protection, the
developmental psychology of preschool children, the definition of vulnerable families as well
as theories of crisis intervention. It takes into account that violence, neglect, substance abuse
in the family and other reasons for removal often play a central role. The field of placement of
preschool children in crisis shelters is still largely unexplored in the Slovenian context, despite
the importance of this issue and the exceptional vulnerability of the selected population group.
The aim of the empirical study is to explore the process of removal and placement of preschool
children in crisis placements while exploring the roles and professional work of the different
agencies involved in this process – intervention services, social welfare centres, child and
family protection services and KCO professionals. The study examines the circumstances and
the different factors that influence this area of work. The aim of the study is to contribute to
the clarity of practises related to the removal and placement of preschool children in crisis
placements and to provide suggestions for improvements in this area. It is important to clearly
present the professional guidelines and protocols that guide the work of professionals in this
process, as well as the factors, professional dilemmas and obstacles that characterise this
procedure. A qualitative research method is used, involving two professionals from the
intervention service, two professionals from the social welfare centre specializing in the
protection of children and families, and two professionals from the KCO. The data is analysed
using content analysis.
The findings of the research point to several systemic barriers in the practise of placing children
in the Crisis Center for Children (KCO), such as lack of time, overwork and insufficient support
for the professionals involved. The cases of child removal and placement in the KCO are
described as highly heterogeneous and there is a noticeable absence of professional guidelines
for the process. A key finding is also the presence of barriers that hinder professionals' active
engagement in the holistic process. These barriers include a lack of time for observation,
analysis and understanding of the child's experiences, a lack of appropriate spaces for children
to express their emotions, distress, and needs, and more. There is a demonstrated need for
increased multidisciplinary collaboration, which is critical to a comprehensive approach to
addressing the complex issues children and families face during removal and placement in the
KCO. The recommendations highlight the changes needed, including increased staffing, the
systematic introduction of supervision, mentorship and ongoing professional development, all
of which would help to improve professionalism and work in the best interests of the child.
|
