| Abstract: | Conclusion Given that the Government has accepted much of the research evidence as indicative of poor performance of local authorities in making and implementing plans for helping children and families, and of the unwillingness or inability to involve parents and children in identifying needs, it is clear that some authorities will need to engage in a major re-think of policies, procedures and practices. Moreover, the idea of a mixed economy culture may be a difficult pill to swallow but the medicine must be taken. It is evident from the account presented here that much will be gained by authorities undertaking an audit utilising not only the provisions of the Act but also an appreciation of developments which have influenced its form.Whether one agrees with its philosophy or not the Children Act 1989 represents a very clear statement of Government intentions. All concerned with the care and upbringing of children should take it seriously. Paradoxically, while encouraging private ordering, its success in promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children may only be measured through the resolution in court of conflicts between families and public authorities about what constitutes good parenting. That these issues raise ideological and economic questions, particularly about the availability of services, should not divert us from the clear messages in the legislation.General Editor. Principal Lecturer in Law, Liverpool Polytechnic. |
