Work

Improving sport opportunities, participation, and experiences for children in out-of-home care: A mixed-methods study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Participation in sport is associated with a range of physical, psychological, and social benefits. However, children in out-of-home care face complex barriers to sport participation, with lower participation rates than children in other household arrangements. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to establish carers' recommendations for improving children in care's participation and experiences in sport. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING: Overall, 42 foster and kinship carers in Western Australia participated in the study. Data were collected via online surveys and interviews. METHODS: We conducted a sequential explanatory mixed-methods study, utilising both quantitative and qualitative methods. RESULTS: Analyses revealed three key recommendations-with accompanying implementation strategies-for policymakers, researchers, peak sporting bodies, and sporting organisations: (1) inclusive practices should be embedded in existing sport programs; (2) education for sport program providers should be developed; and (3) support for carers to facilitate sport participation for children in care should be provided. CONCLUSIONS: This work provides guidance for increasing participation in sport for children in care, and maximising opportunities for physical, psychological, and social development.

Source: Child Abuse & Neglect

DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2025.107476