ASSESSMENT AND ACTION RECORDS - WILL THEY PROMOTE GOOD PARENTING

In this article the authors seek to provide a critical look at Looking After children: Good Parenting and Good Outcomes (Department of Healt h, 1995). They welcome the sentiments underpinning this major contribu tion, which recognizes the many disadvantages faced by children and yo ung people who are looked after by local authorities, and acknowledge that local authorities have not been positive parents of these in thei r care. The writers also acknowledge the thoroughness which has gone i nto the detail of the Action and Assessment Records contained in the a bove pack. What is questioned is the normative view of parenting and f amily life which is seen to be at the heart of these documents and the lack of consideration of the resourcing of action plans. The checklis t approach is criticized for the way in which it will enhance the bure aucratic nature of being in public care, which in rum affects the rela tive power positions of parents and children in relation to the local authority and which will impact on the development of a partnership mo del of care. The writers conclude that children and young people in ca re are but one group of young people facing disadvantage and deprivati on in British society. An examination of their plight and,how to addre ss it need to be based within a clear framework of children's rights a nd a recognition of the power adults hold over them.