Data-Informed Recommendations for Services Providers Working with Vulnerable Children and Families During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: Poster Session 02
  In Poster Session: PS 02 Topic - Social Policy

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and associated response measures have led to unprecedented challenges for service providers working with vulnerable children and families around the world. The goal of the present study was to better understand the impact of the pandemic and associated response measures on vulnerable children and families and provide data-informed guidance and recommendations for public and private service providers working with this population. Representatives from 87 non-government organizations (NGOs) providing a variety of direct services (i.e. residential care, family preservation, foster care, etc.) to 454,637 vulnerable children and families in 43 countries completed a brief online survey. Using a mixed methods design, results examined 1) ways in which children and families have been directly impacted by COVID-19, 2) the impact of the pandemic on services provided by NGOs, 3) government responses and gaps in services for this population during the pandemic, and 4) strategies that have been effective in filling these gaps. Data revealed that the global pandemic and associated restrictive measures were associated with increased risk factors in the lives of vulnerable children and families. In addition to obvious challenges, such as decreased income or fewer schooling and child care options, many did not have access to vital services typically provided by NGOs and other community service providers. The NGOs themselves experienced government restrictions, decreased financial support, and inability to adequately provide services, especially to the most vulnerable who lacked access to technology. Although some governments created action plans, implementation was challenging for most. One concerning trend that emerged was children being sent rapidly from their current placement (i.e. foster care, orphanage) to biological families without preparation, supporting services, or follow-up monitoring. However, increased communication and supportive activities appeared to have a positive impact on both NGO staff and the families they serve. Based on these findings, ten recommendations were made for service providers working with vulnerable children and families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Five recommendations were specific to NGOs and five were intended for government and public sector providers. All recommendations included specific actions that could be taken.
For NGOs recommendations were:
1) Revise Strategy.
2) Adapt Approaches.
3) Learn From What Works.
4) Facilitate Connection.
5) Empower Communities.
For governments recommendations were:
1) Develop an Action Plan for Children in Adversity.
2) Mitigate Restrictive Measures.
3) Prioritize Families and Communities.
4) Coordinate with Key Stakeholders.
5) End Rapid Return of Children to Biological Families.
As the pandemic continues to unfold and the needs of vulnerable families evolve in response, researchers should focus on strategic data collection and analysis geared towards refining recommendations for service providers. Strategies and implications for this are also discussed.

Authors

• Amanda Howard, Samford University
  Presenting Author

• Nicole Wilke, CAFO
  Non-Presenting Author

• Delia Pop, Tanya's Dream
  Non-Presenting Author