– Missouri reports a decline in the number of formal foster care children
– The underlying issue of unregulated hidden foster care revealed
– Violation of parents and children’s rights posed by the current practices
A Look at Missouri’s Foster Care Situation
In a report initially by the Missouri Independent, the state has seen a decrease in the number of children under formal foster care. However, this seemingly good news masks an alarming issue—the troubling practice of concealed fostering. This practice, acknowledges by Missouri’s Children’s Division, has been a bone of contention due to its unregulated nature, raising serious concerns about the violation of parental and children’s rights.
Unveiling the Hidden Foster Care System
Though a fall in the numbers of formal foster care is a positive trend, the revelation of a hidden foster care system is disturbing. This practice involves unofficially placing children in care outside their family homes absent appropriate legal oversight and guidance. As a result, fundamental rights of parents and the children are put at risk.
The Urgent Need for Policy Correction
Such a system calls for immediate attention and reforms to safeguard the rights, interests, and safety of the foster children and their families. The state legislation and child welfare bodies must step in, define clear practices, and enforce accountable guidelines to ensure all foster care is accountable, transparent, and serving the best interests of the child.
The Breezy Take
While it’s pleasing to see a reduction in formal foster care in Missouri, nothing can or should obscure the glaring issue of hidden foster care. This practice, essentially admitted by Missouri’s Children’s Division is not only disconcerting, it is legally and ethically questionable. Immediate attention and policy adjustments are necessary to protect children and uphold the rights of their parents. Missourian authorities and child welfare organizations need to shed light on these shadowy practices — ensuring all care is open, accountable, and prioritizes child welfare.
Original article: https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/21/missouri-must-reduce-family-separations-not-only-formal-foster-care-numbers/