Strategic planning for deinstitutionalisation (Part 1)

Deinstitutionalisation strategies
In line with the Guidelines (paragraph 23), each State should develop its own tailored strategy for reducing both the actual and perceived need for placements in institutional facilities. What is required, therefore, is political will and long term commitment to strategies for the development and reform of an overall child protection system that fully integrates all aspects of suitable alternative care for children only when necessary.It requires a child protection and care system that does not use residential facilities which, due to concerns including size, impersonal environments, and often social and geographical isolation, are inappropriate for the emotional, physical, intellectual, and social development and care of children.In devising such deinstitutionalisation strategies, it is suggested the following issues are considered:- A strategy is wide-ranging in scope and, first and foremost, takes a preventive approach. This means focusing efforts on enabling the child to remain within his or her family whenever possible;
- A strategy developed with the participation of all stakeholders, including children, young people with care experience and families;
- Policy and legislative measures that tackle the reform of the child protection system as a whole, establishing standards, statutory guidance, and regulations with appropriate mechanisms to enforce them. However, these measures must be supplemented by initiatives to create a favourable climate and positive attitudes toward change, without which the successful implementation of the reform will be compromised;
- Appointment by the State of one body with responsibility for oversight and coordination of the child protection and care system;
- Development and implementation of a deinstitutionalisation strategy that clearly defines the structures, resources, roles, and responsibilities for its delivery.
Getting Care Right for All Children: Implementing the UN Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children

Our purpose is to transform access to education.
We offer a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time, and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life.
We believe learning should be an enjoyable, social experience, so our courses offer the opportunity to discuss what you’re learning with others as you go, helping you make fresh discoveries and form new ideas.
You can unlock new opportunities with unlimited access to hundreds of online short courses for a year by subscribing to our Unlimited package. Build your knowledge with top universities and organisations.
Learn more about how FutureLearn is transforming access to education