Learning from Research Seminar- Understanding Mental Health Needs of Children in Care

This research seminar is open to members of the West Midlands Social Work Teaching Partnership. Please see below our Partner organisations.

Professor Rachel Hiller, Co-Director of the UK Trauma Council and Lead of the UCL Child Trauma & Recovery Research Group, will present findings from over a decade of research into the mental health and wellbeing of care-experienced children and young people.

Drawing on large national studies, including longitudinal and qualitative research, the seminar will explore key psychological and social drivers of mental health, as well as barriers to accessing effective support. The research is shaped by lived experience, with input from care-experienced young people and Children in Care Councils throughout.

This session will offer valuable insights for social work practitioners, highlighting how research can challenge common myths, support advocacy, and inform better outcomes for young people in care.

Partner organisations:

Birmingham Children's Trust

Birmingham City Council

Birmingham City University

Cheshire East Council

City of Stoke-on-Trent Council

City of Wolverhampton Council

Coventry City Council

Coventry University

Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Keele University

Sandwell Children's Trust

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Shropshire Council

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Staffordshire County Council

Staffordshire University

Telford & Wrekin Council

University of Birmingham

University of Warwick

University of Wolverhampton

University of Worcester

Walsall Council

Warwickshire County Council

Worcestershire County Council