An investigation of how a group of social workers respond to the cultural needs of black, minority ethnic looked after children

This paper reflects on the findings from a small qualitative study of how social workers from one local authority respond to the cultural needs of black, minority ethnic looked after young people aged eleven years old and over. Cultural needs are defined as those specified in the Children Act 1989 as arising from the young person's religion, cultural and linguistic background alongside their racial origin. Cultural competence as an emerging model is examined in terms of its relevance for contemporary social work practice. The model is selected as it offers a theoretical paradigm which facilitates understanding of the complex position of looked after young people from diaspora communities. Analysis of data from eight interviews revealed five key issues: how legislation can support practice; the organisational response; the meaning of cultural competence in practice; the importance of direct work with the young person and the identification of cultural needs as dynamic and evolving. Findings suggest that, despite the barriers, those interviewed were committed to meeting the diverse cultural needs of young people through listening to young people and undertaking in-depth direct work.