Social Workers and Advocacy for De-institutionalization of Children in Kenya

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the implementation of deinstitutionalization (DI) practices is contingent upon several critical elements, such as the presence of a robust family-based alternative care and social protection system, sufficient funding and resources, and the active participation and backing of professionals and other stakeholders. This study assessed the level of involvement of social workers in advocating for care reforms as they could uniquely cement the transition from residential care to community-based support if fully inculcated. The study was anchored on empowerment and strain theories while, elaborating on the importance of giving power through resources, information, and support to accomplish a task; deinstitutionalization. A mixed method approach was preferred because it allowed both qualitative and quantitative data to be gathered and analysed concurrently. Professional social workers including policy formulation officers, research officers and deinstitutionalisation officers were involved in obtaining information on deinstitutionalization success factors. Findings indicated that there was to a little extent involvement of social workers in the implementation processes. The study concluded that social workers were moderately involved in advocating for the deinstitutionalisation policy thus recommending their increased involvement with adequate government backing. With inculcation of professional social workers who are skilled in handling children welfare matters, the de-institutionalization process would be much more effective as the child sector goes through this critical juncture of care reforms in the country. This study was meant to benefit many parties in the field of child care starting with children’s homes as well as similarly related institutions in Kenya for implementing effective deinstitutionalization policy. Key Words: Social workers, Advocacy, Deinstitutionalization, Children and Kenya