information for practice

news & new scholarship from around the world 11.23.09

gary.holden@nyu.edu archive about help    

just this site other relevant sites poverty sites all of the above

information for practice October 2008 archives

October 31, 2008

Since the beginning of the post-apartheid era, a key objective of the South African government has been the improvement of the quality of life of all South Africans and the reduction of poverty and social inequality. The South African constitution requires the Parliament to ensure that financial resources are distributed equitably among provincial and sub-provincial governments, based partly on levels of poverty and disadvantage (Alderman et al., 2003). It is therefore critical that robust measures are developed to quantify the nature and extent of social deprivation at sub-national level and thereby accurately identify the areas of greatest need (i.e. the most deprived areas).

Since the beginning of the post-apartheid era, a key objective of the South African government has been the improvement of the quality of life of all South Africans and the reduction of poverty and social inequality. The South African constitution requires the Parliament to ensure that financial resources are distributed equitably among provincial and sub-provincial governments, based partly on levels of poverty and disadvantage (Alderman et al., 2003). It is therefore critical that robust measures are developed to quantify the nature and extent of social deprivation at sub-national level and thereby accurately identify the areas of greatest need (i.e. the most deprived areas).

While evaluation exercises tend to assess the performance outcomes of poverty reduction initiatives, studies of best practice are expected to reveal the multiple factors that have contributed to achieving those outcomes. The book points out that there are at least five factors that need to be taken into account in the process of identifying and describing the evolution of a best practice.

While evaluation exercises tend to assess the performance outcomes of poverty reduction initiatives, studies of best practice are expected to reveal the multiple factors that have contributed to achieving those outcomes. The book points out that there are at least five factors that need to be taken into account in the process of identifying and describing the evolution of a best practice.

GUS is an exciting new study that follows the lives of a national sample of Scotland's children from infancy through to their teens. This is one of the largest longitudinal studies ever done in Scotland and will provide information that will help develop policies affecting young children and their families in Scotland. The study is following 8,000 children annually.

GUS is an exciting new study that follows the lives of a national sample of Scotland's children from infancy through to their teens. This is one of the largest longitudinal studies ever done in Scotland and will provide information that will help develop policies affecting young children and their families in Scotland. The study is following 8,000 children annually.

This report sets out the current restrictions for broadcast and non-broadcast media; the findings of the Thomson Intermedia research on overall food and drink advertising spend across a range of media, child-themed ad-spend and TV viewing figures; and the output of the Food and Drink Advertising and Promotion Forum.

This report sets out the current restrictions for broadcast and non-broadcast media; the findings of the Thomson Intermedia research on overall food and drink advertising spend across a range of media, child-themed ad-spend and TV viewing figures; and the output of the Food and Drink Advertising and Promotion Forum.

The report, America's Health Starts With Healthy Children: How Do States Compare?, highlights the important role that income and education play in the health of America's children. It shows the unrealized health potential possible if all children had the same opportunities for health as those in the most well-off families. In almost every state and the District of Columbia, children in the poorest and least educated households suffer the worst health outcomes. But even middle-class children and children in well-off families are not as healthy as they could be.

The report, America's Health Starts With Healthy Children: How Do States Compare?, highlights the important role that income and education play in the health of America's children. It shows the unrealized health potential possible if all children had the same opportunities for health as those in the most well-off families. In almost every state and the District of Columbia, children in the poorest and least educated households suffer the worst health outcomes. But even middle-class children and children in well-off families are not as healthy as they could be.

The child welfare system in Tennessee serves over 20,000 children and youth at risk of custody each year and has approximately 8100 children and youth currently in custody. The Department of Children’s Services has been under intense scrutiny since May 2000, when a civil rights class action lawsuit was filed by Children’s Rights, Inc., on behalf of children who had experienced difficulties within the child welfare system. According to the complaint, Tennessee was not fulfilling its obligations to children in foster care, as children were staying in custody for long lengths of time, being placed in emergency shelters or congregate care settings rather than family-like settings, experiencing multiple placement moves, and not getting all of their healthcare and educational needs met. Additional concerns in the lawsuit focused on the inappropriate use of psychotropic medications for children in care, inadequate monitoring of psychotropic medications, and the possible use of these medications as a means of control, punishment or discipline of children or for the convenience of staff providing care to foster children.

The child welfare system in Tennessee serves over 20,000 children and youth at risk of custody each year and has approximately 8100 children and youth currently in custody. The Department of Children’s Services has been under intense scrutiny since May 2000, when a civil rights class action lawsuit was filed by Children’s Rights, Inc., on behalf of children who had experienced difficulties within the child welfare system. According to the complaint, Tennessee was not fulfilling its obligations to children in foster care, as children were staying in custody for long lengths of time, being placed in emergency shelters or congregate care settings rather than family-like settings, experiencing multiple placement moves, and not getting all of their healthcare and educational needs met. Additional concerns in the lawsuit focused on the inappropriate use of psychotropic medications for children in care, inadequate monitoring of psychotropic medications, and the possible use of these medications as a means of control, punishment or discipline of children or for the convenience of staff providing care to foster children.

October 30, 2008

The child welfare mental health screening initiative, sponsored by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, was developed to identify children with mental health needs who are referred to the child welfare system. The goal of this program is to provide better care to children in need of mental health services and reduce the number of failed placements. Multiple State agencies have been involved in planning and implementing this initiative. During the past year, the agencies have focused on implementing the program, including training county-level field staff on the screening tool, developing formal plans to make referrals for mental health consultations, and actually beginning the screening process. On January 1, 2005, all county agencies began screening all children referred to the State. As part of the project, Dr. Eric R. Wright, Director of The Center for Health Policy and Associate Professor, School of Public and Environmental Affairs, IUPUI and his research staff were asked to initiate an independent evaluation of both the planning and implementation of this initiative. This report is the ninth official evaluation report required under the continuation contract. This report provides an analysis of data for children in placement during the year preceding initiative implementation (benchmark), the six month pilot period, and the first full year and three quarters of implementation.

The child welfare mental health screening initiative, sponsored by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, was developed to identify children with mental health needs who are referred to the child welfare system. The goal of this program is to provide better care to children in need of mental health services and reduce the number of failed placements. Multiple State agencies have been involved in planning and implementing this initiative. During the past year, the agencies have focused on implementing the program, including training county-level field staff on the screening tool, developing formal plans to make referrals for mental health consultations, and actually beginning the screening process. On January 1, 2005, all county agencies began screening all children referred to the State. As part of the project, Dr. Eric R. Wright, Director of The Center for Health Policy and Associate Professor, School of Public and Environmental Affairs, IUPUI and his research staff were asked to initiate an independent evaluation of both the planning and implementation of this initiative. This report is the ninth official evaluation report required under the continuation contract. This report provides an analysis of data for children in placement during the year preceding initiative implementation (benchmark), the six month pilot period, and the first full year and three quarters of implementation.

The Community Healthy Marriage Initiative (CHMI) is a key component of the healthy marriage demonstration strategy of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) to determine how public policies can best support healthy marriages and child well-being. The community healthy marriage demonstrations discussed in this report are funded through waivers granted by the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) under authority of Section 1115 of the Social Security Act.1 Two concepts underlie the CHMI strategy. One is that community coalitions can be an effective vehicle for developing a range of healthy marriage and healthy family activities, including classes that build marriage skills, partnerships with clergy and others, celebration days, and media messages about the value of marriage and healthy families. The second is that communities with a critical mass of such activities can lead to positive outcomes for families, individuals and couples as a direct result of their participation in classes and other services and indirectly through their interactions with friends, family, and others in the community who were themselves influenced by a local marriage-related activity sponsored by the local coalition. The goals of the section 1115 healthy marriage waiver initiatives are to achieve child support objectives through healthy marriage activities.

The Community Healthy Marriage Initiative (CHMI) is a key component of the healthy marriage demonstration strategy of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) to determine how public policies can best support healthy marriages and child well-being. The community healthy marriage demonstrations discussed in this report are funded through waivers granted by the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) under authority of Section 1115 of the Social Security Act.1 Two concepts underlie the CHMI strategy. One is that community coalitions can be an effective vehicle for developing a range of healthy marriage and healthy family activities, including classes that build marriage skills, partnerships with clergy and others, celebration days, and media messages about the value of marriage and healthy families. The second is that communities with a critical mass of such activities can lead to positive outcomes for families, individuals and couples as a direct result of their participation in classes and other services and indirectly through their interactions with friends, family, and others in the community who were themselves influenced by a local marriage-related activity sponsored by the local coalition. The goals of the section 1115 healthy marriage waiver initiatives are to achieve child support objectives through healthy marriage activities.

The objective of this project was to better understand how to measure material deprivation amongst older people in surveys. The report details findings from new quantitative work using omnibus questions on what are regarded as necessary items for older people, as well as new cognitive testing work, conducted by the National Centre for Social Research, to better understand how to ask older people about material deprivation. The report makes recommendations on the implementation of the new question block on the Family Resources Survey (FRS).

The objective of this project was to better understand how to measure material deprivation amongst older people in surveys. The report details findings from new quantitative work using omnibus questions on what are regarded as necessary items for older people, as well as new cognitive testing work, conducted by the National Centre for Social Research, to better understand how to ask older people about material deprivation. The report makes recommendations on the implementation of the new question block on the Family Resources Survey (FRS).

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘distrusting and fearful society’. Anna Minton argues that the cause of growing fear and distrust is visible physical inequality and segregation in the environment, combined with a commercially driven media with a vested interest in promoting fear.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘distrusting and fearful society’. Anna Minton argues that the cause of growing fear and distrust is visible physical inequality and segregation in the environment, combined with a commercially driven media with a vested interest in promoting fear.

This Bulletin, the seventh in the NISMART–2 series, addresses a special topic: sexually assaulted children. The Bulletin provides information on the estimated number and characteristics of children who were sexually assaulted in the United States in 1999, based on NISMART–2 interviews with victims and their families. The estimates are derived from two components of the Second National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children (NISMART–2): the National Household Survey of Adult Caretakers and the National Household Survey of Youth. These surveys were conducted during 1999 and reflect a 12-month period. Because the vast majority of cases reported were concentrated in 1999, the annual period referred to in the Bulletin is 1999.

This Bulletin, the seventh in the NISMART–2 series, addresses a special topic: sexually assaulted children. The Bulletin provides information on the estimated number and characteristics of children who were sexually assaulted in the United States in 1999, based on NISMART–2 interviews with victims and their families. The estimates are derived from two components of the Second National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children (NISMART–2): the National Household Survey of Adult Caretakers and the National Household Survey of Youth. These surveys were conducted during 1999 and reflect a 12-month period. Because the vast majority of cases reported were concentrated in 1999, the annual period referred to in the Bulletin is 1999.

October 29, 2008

M Rahman | Christian Aid

New Delhi, India: Security guard Vinod, 40, and his family live in a camp near New Delhi and eat only enough to survive

M Rahman | Christian Aid

New Delhi, India: Security guard Vinod, 40, and his family live in a camp near New Delhi and eat only enough to survive

This brief analyzes data from 145 men released from Illinois prisons (2002-2003) and tracked for three years afterwards through personal interviews and reincarceration records, as part of the study Returning Home: Understanding the Challenges of Prisoner Reentry. Three years after release, 59 percent were reincarcerated—up from 34 percent at 16 months out. Those successful at avoiding reincarceration were older first-time releases with no illegal income or family violence prior to prison, and those who found employment and housing after release, reintegrated into new, less disorganized neighborhoods, avoided antisocial peers, and had a physical/mental health condition (which may have restricted activity outside the home).

This brief analyzes data from 145 men released from Illinois prisons (2002-2003) and tracked for three years afterwards through personal interviews and reincarceration records, as part of the study Returning Home: Understanding the Challenges of Prisoner Reentry. Three years after release, 59 percent were reincarcerated—up from 34 percent at 16 months out. Those successful at avoiding reincarceration were older first-time releases with no illegal income or family violence prior to prison, and those who found employment and housing after release, reintegrated into new, less disorganized neighborhoods, avoided antisocial peers, and had a physical/mental health condition (which may have restricted activity outside the home).

This report contains the commission's feedback to councils about overall trends in performance and delivery based on councils’ self-assessment statements for 2007-08. It makes comparisons with previous years and with councils’ plans for 2008-09 as appropriate.

This report contains the commission's feedback to councils about overall trends in performance and delivery based on councils’ self-assessment statements for 2007-08. It makes comparisons with previous years and with councils’ plans for 2008-09 as appropriate.

The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) has undertaken several activities designed to improve the overall preparation of youth in foster care for the experience of adult living. This report discusses the results of two surveys of youth in foster care and describes the ongoing efforts toward program improvement undertaken by Child Protective Services (CPS). These results are being shared with community partners, CPS management and staff, and the adolescents themselves in the interests of further improving the foster care experience for all children.

The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) has undertaken several activities designed to improve the overall preparation of youth in foster care for the experience of adult living. This report discusses the results of two surveys of youth in foster care and describes the ongoing efforts toward program improvement undertaken by Child Protective Services (CPS). These results are being shared with community partners, CPS management and staff, and the adolescents themselves in the interests of further improving the foster care experience for all children.

In 2007, the Social Services Agency developed an action plan to address issues of racial disproportionality in the Child Welfare program. That plan is attached as an appendix. This document reviews the extent to which progress was made in implementing the 2007 plan, and sets out goals for 2008.

In 2007, the Social Services Agency developed an action plan to address issues of racial disproportionality in the Child Welfare program. That plan is attached as an appendix. This document reviews the extent to which progress was made in implementing the 2007 plan, and sets out goals for 2008.

This report examines both the educational progress of American Indian/Alaska Native children and adults and challenges in their education. It shows that over time more American Indian/Alaska Native students have gone on to college and that their attainment expectations have increased. Despite these gains, progress has been uneven and differences persist between American Indian/Alaska Native students and students of other racial/ethnic groups on key indicators of educational performance.

This report examines both the educational progress of American Indian/Alaska Native children and adults and challenges in their education. It shows that over time more American Indian/Alaska Native students have gone on to college and that their attainment expectations have increased. Despite these gains, progress has been uneven and differences persist between American Indian/Alaska Native students and students of other racial/ethnic groups on key indicators of educational performance.

Using data from the Urban Institute’s Returning Home study, this brief examines post release supervision experiences in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas. The authors focus on addressing three questions: What are the parole experiences of those being released from prison? How do experiences on supervision affect post release outcomes? Does supervision benefit some groups more than others? Overall, parolees reported positive relationships with their parole officers but received relatively little tangible assistance finding a job or drug treatment program. Parole supervision was associated with increased employment and reduced substance use among former prisoners, but had almost no impact on self-reported crime or rearrest.

Using data from the Urban Institute’s Returning Home study, this brief examines post release supervision experiences in Illinois, Ohio, and Texas. The authors focus on addressing three questions: What are the parole experiences of those being released from prison? How do experiences on supervision affect post release outcomes? Does supervision benefit some groups more than others? Overall, parolees reported positive relationships with their parole officers but received relatively little tangible assistance finding a job or drug treatment program. Parole supervision was associated with increased employment and reduced substance use among former prisoners, but had almost no impact on self-reported crime or rearrest.

October 28, 2008

Poverty has long-term social and economic costs for children and families, communities, and states. In 2006, more than 13 million children lived below the federal poverty level. Children who grow up poor are more likely to earn less as adults, complete fewer years of formal education, and face more health issues than children living in higher-income families. Poverty also contributes to poor social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes for children and hinders cognitive development. In short, poverty has large repercussions for states and the nation, with childhood poverty alone estimated to cost the U.S. economy approximately $500 billion annually.

Poverty has long-term social and economic costs for children and families, communities, and states. In 2006, more than 13 million children lived below the federal poverty level. Children who grow up poor are more likely to earn less as adults, complete fewer years of formal education, and face more health issues than children living in higher-income families. Poverty also contributes to poor social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes for children and hinders cognitive development. In short, poverty has large repercussions for states and the nation, with childhood poverty alone estimated to cost the U.S. economy approximately $500 billion annually.

This document explains new duties on hospital managers, responsible clinicians, approved mental health professionals and NHS bodies who fund treatment of domestic violence victims in the independent sector.

This document explains new duties on hospital managers, responsible clinicians, approved mental health professionals and NHS bodies who fund treatment of domestic violence victims in the independent sector.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘distrusting and fearful society’. Shaun Bailey looks at relationships between individuals, the state and community, and the effects these relationships have on our daily lives that may lead us not to trust.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘distrusting and fearful society’. Shaun Bailey looks at relationships between individuals, the state and community, and the effects these relationships have on our daily lives that may lead us not to trust.

Introduces the Survey of Youth in Residential Placement, reviewing its background, describing its design and methodology, discussing its strengths and limitations, and summarizing the questions it answers about the population of youth in custody. This survey is unique in that it is the only current national survey to obtain information about youth in custody by asking questions of the youth themselves.

Introduces the Survey of Youth in Residential Placement, reviewing its background, describing its design and methodology, discussing its strengths and limitations, and summarizing the questions it answers about the population of youth in custody. This survey is unique in that it is the only current national survey to obtain information about youth in custody by asking questions of the youth themselves.

Children of incarcerated parents are often an invisible population, but analyzing and mapping local-level data on these children and their parents can help policymakers and advocates better understand their experiences and needs. This brief discusses the mapping of community data on these families, drawing on the experiences and insights of partners in the Urban Institute’s Reentry Mapping Network (RMN). The brief discusses the value of analyzing and mapping data on children of incarcerated parents, outlines potential data sources, and explores the process of working with and mapping data on this population.

Children of incarcerated parents are often an invisible population, but analyzing and mapping local-level data on these children and their parents can help policymakers and advocates better understand their experiences and needs. This brief discusses the mapping of community data on these families, drawing on the experiences and insights of partners in the Urban Institute’s Reentry Mapping Network (RMN). The brief discusses the value of analyzing and mapping data on children of incarcerated parents, outlines potential data sources, and explores the process of working with and mapping data on this population.

One issue that demands more attention is the subject of this issue brief: structuring foster parent training for kinship caregivers in ways that provide needed information while respecting existing family relationships. While traditional training programs for foster parents can provide relevant information, both caregivers and administrators report that kin may also require specialized training to address their unique needs and provide them with a forum to talk about sensitive issues with others experiencing similar challenges. This issue brief provides an overview of efforts to adapt foster parent training to the unique needs and circumstances of kinship caregivers.

One issue that demands more attention is the subject of this issue brief: structuring foster parent training for kinship caregivers in ways that provide needed information while respecting existing family relationships. While traditional training programs for foster parents can provide relevant information, both caregivers and administrators report that kin may also require specialized training to address their unique needs and provide them with a forum to talk about sensitive issues with others experiencing similar challenges. This issue brief provides an overview of efforts to adapt foster parent training to the unique needs and circumstances of kinship caregivers.

October 27, 2008

This publication provides projections for key education statistics. It includes statistics on enrollment, graduates, teachers, and expenditures in elementary and secondary schools, and enrollment and earned degrees conferred expenditures of degree-granting institutions. For the Nation, the tables, figures, and text contain data on enrollment, teachers, graduates, and expenditures for the past 14 years and projections to the year 2017. For the 50 States and the District of Columbia, the tables, figures, and text contain data on projections of public elementary and secondary enrollment and public high school graduates to the year 2017. In addition, the report includes a methodology section describing models and assumptions used to develop national and state-level projections.

This publication provides projections for key education statistics. It includes statistics on enrollment, graduates, teachers, and expenditures in elementary and secondary schools, and enrollment and earned degrees conferred expenditures of degree-granting institutions. For the Nation, the tables, figures, and text contain data on enrollment, teachers, graduates, and expenditures for the past 14 years and projections to the year 2017. For the 50 States and the District of Columbia, the tables, figures, and text contain data on projections of public elementary and secondary enrollment and public high school graduates to the year 2017. In addition, the report includes a methodology section describing models and assumptions used to develop national and state-level projections.

World Resources 2008 argues that properly designed enterprises can create economic,
social, and environmental resilience that cushion the impacts of climate change, and help
provide needed social stability. Increased resilience must be part of the response to the
risks of climate change. The efforts that foster resilience chart the first steps on the path
out of poverty. What can we say with some certainty about environment and development as we approach the end of the first decade of the 21st century?

World Resources 2008 argues that properly designed enterprises can create economic,
social, and environmental resilience that cushion the impacts of climate change, and help
provide needed social stability. Increased resilience must be part of the response to the
risks of climate change. The efforts that foster resilience chart the first steps on the path
out of poverty. What can we say with some certainty about environment and development as we approach the end of the first decade of the 21st century?

Latest Census data—This Issue Brief closely examines the level of participation by workers in public- and private-sector employment-based pension or retirement plans, based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s March 2008 Current Population Survey (CPS), the most recent data
currently available.
Sponsorship rate—About 58 percent of all working-age (21–64) wage and salary employees work for an employer or union that sponsors a retirement plan. Among full-time, full-year wage and salary workers ages 21–64 (those with the strongest connection to the work force), just over 63 percent worked for an employer or union that sponsors a plan.
Participation level—Among full-time, full-year wage and salary workers ages 21–64, 55 percent participated in a retirement plan.

Latest Census data—This Issue Brief closely examines the level of participation by workers in public- and private-sector employment-based pension or retirement plans, based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s March 2008 Current Population Survey (CPS), the most recent data
currently available.
Sponsorship rate—About 58 percent of all working-age (21–64) wage and salary employees work for an employer or union that sponsors a retirement plan. Among full-time, full-year wage and salary workers ages 21–64 (those with the strongest connection to the work force), just over 63 percent worked for an employer or union that sponsors a plan.
Participation level—Among full-time, full-year wage and salary workers ages 21–64, 55 percent participated in a retirement plan.

This report presents information derived from interviews conducted shortly after reception into prison with a representative sample of nearly 1,500 newly sentenced adult prisoners. It is the first report from a major longitudinal survey of prisoners – 'Surveying Prisoner Crime Reduction' – which has several aims, including the collection of data on the problems and needs of prisoners; the interventions they receive while in prison; and outcomes upon release. The national survey looks at issues such as physical and mental health problems; accommodation and employment pre-custody; qualifications; and drug and alcohol use. Data are presented on a number of sub-groups of prisoners, including female offenders, those serving short sentences and young offenders.

This report presents information derived from interviews conducted shortly after reception into prison with a representative sample of nearly 1,500 newly sentenced adult prisoners. It is the first report from a major longitudinal survey of prisoners – 'Surveying Prisoner Crime Reduction' – which has several aims, including the collection of data on the problems and needs of prisoners; the interventions they receive while in prison; and outcomes upon release. The national survey looks at issues such as physical and mental health problems; accommodation and employment pre-custody; qualifications; and drug and alcohol use. Data are presented on a number of sub-groups of prisoners, including female offenders, those serving short sentences and young offenders.

The Urban Institute partnered with local research organizations in three sites to learn more about children of incarcerated parents through the merging and analysis of local and state level criminal justice and human services data. The purpose of the project was to better understand the experiences and needs of children of incarcerated parents in each locality and to explore the involvement of affected families with the criminal justice, child welfare, and social welfare systems. This report presents findings from the sites and lessons learned regarding the merging and analysis of administrative data on this population.

The Urban Institute partnered with local research organizations in three sites to learn more about children of incarcerated parents through the merging and analysis of local and state level criminal justice and human services data. The purpose of the project was to better understand the experiences and needs of children of incarcerated parents in each locality and to explore the involvement of affected families with the criminal justice, child welfare, and social welfare systems. This report presents findings from the sites and lessons learned regarding the merging and analysis of administrative data on this population.

This report is designed to help the corrections community, service providers and community groups prepare prisoners for the moment of release from prison and the time immediately following release. It describes the eight most basic and immediate needs returning prisoners have when they exit prison, recommends minimum policies practitioners can institute to meet these needs, and highlights the opportunities and challenges practitioners face when trying to improve their release planning policies. The report also uses the results of a UI survey of 43 departments of corrections to illustrate what release planning procedures are currently being implemented across the country.

This report is designed to help the corrections community, service providers and community groups prepare prisoners for the moment of release from prison and the time immediately following release. It describes the eight most basic and immediate needs returning prisoners have when they exit prison, recommends minimum policies practitioners can institute to meet these needs, and highlights the opportunities and challenges practitioners face when trying to improve their release planning policies. The report also uses the results of a UI survey of 43 departments of corrections to illustrate what release planning procedures are currently being implemented across the country.

Housing pressures in British cities partly result from the net migration of people to Britain over the past ten years. Immigration has also changed the nature of minority ethnic communities, while longestablished minority ethnic communities are changing with successive generations. What does recent research tell us about the nature of these changes, and their impact on policy and practice in housing and neighbourhood renewal?

Housing pressures in British cities partly result from the net migration of people to Britain over the past ten years. Immigration has also changed the nature of minority ethnic communities, while longestablished minority ethnic communities are changing with successive generations. What does recent research tell us about the nature of these changes, and their impact on policy and practice in housing and neighbourhood renewal?

October 24, 2008

This Statistics publication provides information on applications to local authorities for assistance
under the homeless persons legislation covering the period to 31 March 2008. It includes information on the characteristics of applicant households, local authority assessments and the action taken in respect of cases that were concluded. Snapshot data on households in temporary accommodation at 31 March are presented, together with data on the implementation of the Homeless Persons (Unsuitable Accommodation) (Scotland) Order 2004.

This Statistics publication provides information on applications to local authorities for assistance
under the homeless persons legislation covering the period to 31 March 2008. It includes information on the characteristics of applicant households, local authority assessments and the action taken in respect of cases that were concluded. Snapshot data on households in temporary accommodation at 31 March are presented, together with data on the implementation of the Homeless Persons (Unsuitable Accommodation) (Scotland) Order 2004.

Research can help physicians and other health care professionals guide patient decisionmaking for care at the end of life. Findings resulting from research funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) are discussed. This research can help providers offer end-of-life care based on preferences held by the majority of patients under similar circumstances.

Research can help physicians and other health care professionals guide patient decisionmaking for care at the end of life. Findings resulting from research funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) are discussed. This research can help providers offer end-of-life care based on preferences held by the majority of patients under similar circumstances.

An economic catastrophe occurred on August 26th 2008 that was quickly forgotten across the media: an extra 430 million people were classified overnight as absolutely poor. The cause was no tsunami or natural disaster, but simply the revisions of World Bank statisticians who adjusted the international poverty line from $1.08 to $1.25 a day. Contradicting the Bank's celebrated decline in extreme poverty figures last year to less than a billion for the first time, the new measurements revealed a far less optimistic outlook - a total of 1.4 billion poor people in 2005, revised from 986 million in 2004. A margin of error, in other words, of 42 percent, defining a quarter of the developing world as living without sufficient means for human survival.

An economic catastrophe occurred on August 26th 2008 that was quickly forgotten across the media: an extra 430 million people were classified overnight as absolutely poor. The cause was no tsunami or natural disaster, but simply the revisions of World Bank statisticians who adjusted the international poverty line from $1.08 to $1.25 a day. Contradicting the Bank's celebrated decline in extreme poverty figures last year to less than a billion for the first time, the new measurements revealed a far less optimistic outlook - a total of 1.4 billion poor people in 2005, revised from 986 million in 2004. A margin of error, in other words, of 42 percent, defining a quarter of the developing world as living without sufficient means for human survival.

This report discusses the progress of the New Jersey child welfare system in complying with the goals, principles and outcomes of the Modified Settlement Agreement (MSA) of class action litigation aimed at improving the State's child welfare system. This second monitoring report explores the State's continued work in and commitment to foundational elements of a successful reform, and also describes the State's efforts towards implementing its new Case Practice Model (CPM). The report begins by explaining the methodology of the evaluation which included extensive aggregate and back up data from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) as well as access to staff at all levels to verify DCF data and report on actions taken and progress made.

This report discusses the progress of the New Jersey child welfare system in complying with the goals, principles and outcomes of the Modified Settlement Agreement (MSA) of class action litigation aimed at improving the State's child welfare system. This second monitoring report explores the State's continued work in and commitment to foundational elements of a successful reform, and also describes the State's efforts towards implementing its new Case Practice Model (CPM). The report begins by explaining the methodology of the evaluation which included extensive aggregate and back up data from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) as well as access to staff at all levels to verify DCF data and report on actions taken and progress made.

This is the sixth annual report presenting the results of the finance mapping exercise carried out as part of the autumn review process. It provides details of the level of investment in adult mental health services in England for 2007/08 and compares it with the reported results in the five previous years.

This is the sixth annual report presenting the results of the finance mapping exercise carried out as part of the autumn review process. It provides details of the level of investment in adult mental health services in England for 2007/08 and compares it with the reported results in the five previous years.

Participants in this training will be able to: (1) Identify the conditions for establishing effective engagement with clients; (2) Connect the engagement process with the appropriate application of protective authority to establish the collaborative/protective partnership; (3) Identify the elements of the solution-focused intervention model that distinguish it from the more typical problem-focused approach; (4) Identify seven key solution-focused strategies; (5) Identify the appropriate use of the following skills: identifying strengths in a problem situation, exploring past successes, finding and using exceptions to the problem, facilitating a positive vision of the future, scaling questions, encouraging commitment and developing action steps; and (6) Identify opportunities to implement the solution-focused interviewing and intervention approach with child welfare clients.

Participants in this training will be able to: (1) Identify the conditions for establishing effective engagement with clients; (2) Connect the engagement process with the appropriate application of protective authority to establish the collaborative/protective partnership; (3) Identify the elements of the solution-focused intervention model that distinguish it from the more typical problem-focused approach; (4) Identify seven key solution-focused strategies; (5) Identify the appropriate use of the following skills: identifying strengths in a problem situation, exploring past successes, finding and using exceptions to the problem, facilitating a positive vision of the future, scaling questions, encouraging commitment and developing action steps; and (6) Identify opportunities to implement the solution-focused interviewing and intervention approach with child welfare clients.

Living and Dying Well uses the concepts of planning and delivery of care, and of communication and information sharing as a framework to support a person centred approach to delivering consistent palliative and end of life care in Scotland.

Living and Dying Well uses the concepts of planning and delivery of care, and of communication and information sharing as a framework to support a person centred approach to delivering consistent palliative and end of life care in Scotland.

October 23, 2008

Local authorities and their partners are making considerable inroads into the task of meeting the Government's target of eliminating the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for 16 and 17 year olds, except in an emergency and then for no more than six weeks. By 30 June 2008 the number staying in bed and breakfast had fallen from approximately 1,000 in September 2006 to 420, 160 of whom had been placed for more than six weeks. Supported lodgings services have played an important role in this in some areas, and Communities and Local Government has supported a number of new services in 2007-08.

Local authorities and their partners are making considerable inroads into the task of meeting the Government's target of eliminating the use of bed and breakfast accommodation for 16 and 17 year olds, except in an emergency and then for no more than six weeks. By 30 June 2008 the number staying in bed and breakfast had fallen from approximately 1,000 in September 2006 to 420, 160 of whom had been placed for more than six weeks. Supported lodgings services have played an important role in this in some areas, and Communities and Local Government has supported a number of new services in 2007-08.

This report presents results from the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) for 2006, and trend data for 996 to 2006. The report provides information on the demographic and substance abuse characteristics of the .8 million annual admissions to treatment for abuse of alcohol and/or drugs in facilities that report to individual State administrative data systems.TEDS is an admission-based system, and TEDS admissions do not represent individuals. Thus, for example, an individual admitted to treatment twice within a calendar year would be counted as two admissions. TEDS does not include all admissions to substance abuse treatment. It includes facilities that are licensed or certified by the State substance abuse agency to provide substance abuse treatment (or are administratively tracked for other reasons). In general, facilities reporting TEDS data are those that receive State alcohol and/or drug agency funds (including Federal Block Grant funds) for the provision of alcohol and/or drug treatment services.

This report presents results from the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) for 2006, and trend data for 996 to 2006. The report provides information on the demographic and substance abuse characteristics of the .8 million annual admissions to treatment for abuse of alcohol and/or drugs in facilities that report to individual State administrative data systems.TEDS is an admission-based system, and TEDS admissions do not represent individuals. Thus, for example, an individual admitted to treatment twice within a calendar year would be counted as two admissions. TEDS does not include all admissions to substance abuse treatment. It includes facilities that are licensed or certified by the State substance abuse agency to provide substance abuse treatment (or are administratively tracked for other reasons). In general, facilities reporting TEDS data are those that receive State alcohol and/or drug agency funds (including Federal Block Grant funds) for the provision of alcohol and/or drug treatment services.

This memorandum report describes the nature and extent of nursing home deficiencies and complaints in 2007 and identifies trends from 2005 to 2007. This study is part of the Office ofInspector General's (GIG) continuing commitment to addressing the quality of care in nursing homes. It builds on OIG's prior work by analyzing the most recent data available on nursing home deficiencies and complaints.

This memorandum report describes the nature and extent of nursing home deficiencies and complaints in 2007 and identifies trends from 2005 to 2007. This study is part of the Office ofInspector General's (GIG) continuing commitment to addressing the quality of care in nursing homes. It builds on OIG's prior work by analyzing the most recent data available on nursing home deficiencies and complaints.

This directory provides information on 53 Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) and Multi-disciplinary Interview Centers/Teams (MDIC/Ts) representing 47 counties in California. The centers were surveyed during March-June of 2007 to evaluate the Child Abuse Training and Technical Assistance (CATTA) Center's service in the past year; collect data on current training/technical assistance needs of the centers and teams; and to collect information regarding the current status of the CACs and MDIC/Ts in California, with a focus on their Minimum Standard Protocols. It begins by summarizing the services provided by the CACs and MDIC/Ts. Data indicate the typical MDIC in California was established in the 1990s, serves 100-399 children annually, and accepts sexual assault, physical assault, and witness to domestic violence felony or misdemeanor cases.

This directory provides information on 53 Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) and Multi-disciplinary Interview Centers/Teams (MDIC/Ts) representing 47 counties in California. The centers were surveyed during March-June of 2007 to evaluate the Child Abuse Training and Technical Assistance (CATTA) Center's service in the past year; collect data on current training/technical assistance needs of the centers and teams; and to collect information regarding the current status of the CACs and MDIC/Ts in California, with a focus on their Minimum Standard Protocols. It begins by summarizing the services provided by the CACs and MDIC/Ts. Data indicate the typical MDIC in California was established in the 1990s, serves 100-399 children annually, and accepts sexual assault, physical assault, and witness to domestic violence felony or misdemeanor cases.

As child welfare agencies are pushed to achieve outcomes, there is growing attention to the importance of the role of the child welfare supervisor. Since supervisors are the key link between management and the caseworkers who deliver services, managers are expecting more from them, and their role is becoming increasingly complex. For example, many agencies have set out in their Program Improvement Plans (PIPs) under the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) process to make changes in caseworker practice—such as increasing the engagement of families—and have tasked supervisors with facilitating this change. In addition, workforce issues—such as worker turnover—create barriers to achieving the improvements in outcomes demanded by the CFSR process, and strong supervision is one factor consistently linked to worker retention.

As child welfare agencies are pushed to achieve outcomes, there is growing attention to the importance of the role of the child welfare supervisor. Since supervisors are the key link between management and the caseworkers who deliver services, managers are expecting more from them, and their role is becoming increasingly complex. For example, many agencies have set out in their Program Improvement Plans (PIPs) under the Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) process to make changes in caseworker practice—such as increasing the engagement of families—and have tasked supervisors with facilitating this change. In addition, workforce issues—such as worker turnover—create barriers to achieving the improvements in outcomes demanded by the CFSR process, and strong supervision is one factor consistently linked to worker retention.

This report summarises the key findings from a group of 16 studies commissioned by the Policy Research Programme under the ‘Older People’s use of services’ Research Initiative. The aim of the initiative was to inform and assess the implementation of the National Service Framework for Older People (2001)

This report summarises the key findings from a group of 16 studies commissioned by the Policy Research Programme under the ‘Older People’s use of services’ Research Initiative. The aim of the initiative was to inform and assess the implementation of the National Service Framework for Older People (2001)

October 22, 2008

To continue disseminating important information to policy makers and researchers, as well as people who are interested in the development of Vietnam, this second volume of Social Issues Under Economic Transformation and Integration in Vietnam addresses another set of social issues that emerge as a consequence of economic development and social reforms. As with the first volume, we hope that the contents of this volume will extend beyond those directly involved in the related field of research, and that the book will provide crucial analyses on the current development of Vietnam's social sector.

To continue disseminating important information to policy makers and researchers, as well as people who are interested in the development of Vietnam, this second volume of Social Issues Under Economic Transformation and Integration in Vietnam addresses another set of social issues that emerge as a consequence of economic development and social reforms. As with the first volume, we hope that the contents of this volume will extend beyond those directly involved in the related field of research, and that the book will provide crucial analyses on the current development of Vietnam's social sector.

Women mainly provide family care, but as women’s economic opportunities increase they will not continue to bear the costs of providing care unaided. To create a sustainable care system, care and carers must be better supported and more highly valued to involve more men in caring and reduce gender inequalities.

Women mainly provide family care, but as women’s economic opportunities increase they will not continue to bear the costs of providing care unaided. To create a sustainable care system, care and carers must be better supported and more highly valued to involve more men in caring and reduce gender inequalities.

Over the last decade, movements have arisen in a number of jurisdictions in favour of the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and, in some cases, euthanasia. At the same time, there continues to be vocal opposition to the elimination of criminal sanctions for individuals who either assist in or cause the death of a person who has requested that his or her life be terminated. This paper reviews developments in jurisdictions that already permit physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia (or both) in certain contexts, as well as developments in some jurisdictions that appear to be moving toward greater acceptance of these practices. It also summarizes some of the events that have contributed to the debate on this issue.

Over the last decade, movements have arisen in a number of jurisdictions in favour of the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and, in some cases, euthanasia. At the same time, there continues to be vocal opposition to the elimination of criminal sanctions for individuals who either assist in or cause the death of a person who has requested that his or her life be terminated. This paper reviews developments in jurisdictions that already permit physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia (or both) in certain contexts, as well as developments in some jurisdictions that appear to be moving toward greater acceptance of these practices. It also summarizes some of the events that have contributed to the debate on this issue.

Murder-suicide is “a dramatic, violent event” in which a person, almost always a man, commits one murder or multiple murders, and then shortly after commits suicide. What makes these acts particularly disturbing is that they involve more than one person and often involve a family. They almost always are committed with a firearm. As of yet, no national database or tracking system exists to systematically document the toll in death and injury of murder-suicide in the United States. In order to more fully understand the human costs of murder-suicide, starting in 2002 the Violence Policy Center (VPC) began collecting and analyzing news reports of murdersuicides, resulting in a series of studies titled American Roulette: Murder-Suicide in the United States. This is the third edition of the study.

Murder-suicide is “a dramatic, violent event” in which a person, almost always a man, commits one murder or multiple murders, and then shortly after commits suicide. What makes these acts particularly disturbing is that they involve more than one person and often involve a family. They almost always are committed with a firearm. As of yet, no national database or tracking system exists to systematically document the toll in death and injury of murder-suicide in the United States. In order to more fully understand the human costs of murder-suicide, starting in 2002 the Violence Policy Center (VPC) began collecting and analyzing news reports of murdersuicides, resulting in a series of studies titled American Roulette: Murder-Suicide in the United States. This is the third edition of the study.

Today, we will hear about neglect and abuse cases where the outcome was the worst one imaginable, the death of a child. We will hear testimony from parents of children who died, and I thank them for joining us today and for having the courage to speak publicly about their ordeals. It is estimated that hundreds of private residential treatment programs operate nationwide. The programs are governed for the most part by a weak patchwork of state regulations. In many states, these programs operate without regulation, licensing or accreditation of any kind, despite often exorbitant prices of tuition. Parents often send their children to these programs when they feel they have exhausted their alternatives. Their children may be abusing drugs or alcohol, attempting to run away or physically harm themselves, or otherwise acting out. They send their children to these programs because the promises of staff members to be able to help children straighten out their lives. In far too many cases, however, the very people entrusted with the safety, the health and the welfare of these children are the ones who violate the trust in some of the more horrific ways imaginable. We are aware of stories where program staff members have forced children to remain in seclusion for days at a time, to remain in so-called stress positions for hours at a time, to undergo extreme physical exertion without sufficient food or water.

Today, we will hear about neglect and abuse cases where the outcome was the worst one imaginable, the death of a child. We will hear testimony from parents of children who died, and I thank them for joining us today and for having the courage to speak publicly about their ordeals. It is estimated that hundreds of private residential treatment programs operate nationwide. The programs are governed for the most part by a weak patchwork of state regulations. In many states, these programs operate without regulation, licensing or accreditation of any kind, despite often exorbitant prices of tuition. Parents often send their children to these programs when they feel they have exhausted their alternatives. Their children may be abusing drugs or alcohol, attempting to run away or physically harm themselves, or otherwise acting out. They send their children to these programs because the promises of staff members to be able to help children straighten out their lives. In far too many cases, however, the very people entrusted with the safety, the health and the welfare of these children are the ones who violate the trust in some of the more horrific ways imaginable. We are aware of stories where program staff members have forced children to remain in seclusion for days at a time, to remain in so-called stress positions for hours at a time, to undergo extreme physical exertion without sufficient food or water.

GOAL # 1
To develop, implement, and evaluate competency-based training program for child welfare workers and supervisors in 31 rural counties in Missouri.
GOAL # 2
To improve the direct, (with children and families), and indirect, (with communities and other agencies), skills and competencies of Southwest Region rural child welfare frontline workers and supervisors.
GOAL # 3
To develop relationships with community members and leaders and other related agencies (including faith-based organizations) to increase resource development and collaborative activities.
GOAL # 4
To increase awareness of and access to child welfare services in 31 rural Southwest Missouri counties.

GOAL # 1
To develop, implement, and evaluate competency-based training program for child welfare workers and supervisors in 31 rural counties in Missouri.
GOAL # 2
To improve the direct, (with children and families), and indirect, (with communities and other agencies), skills and competencies of Southwest Region rural child welfare frontline workers and supervisors.
GOAL # 3
To develop relationships with community members and leaders and other related agencies (including faith-based organizations) to increase resource development and collaborative activities.
GOAL # 4
To increase awareness of and access to child welfare services in 31 rural Southwest Missouri counties.

Under the auspices of the LinkAge Plus programme, the Department for Work and Pensions commissioned two London boroughs to pilot a joining up of the process of applying for Attendance Allowance with the assessment for social care support. 'Streamlined assessment' is based on the principle that customers should provide information only once to access more than one service and that there is scope to adopt a customer-centred approach to service provision. This evaluation looks at the experiences and learning from the pilots.

Under the auspices of the LinkAge Plus programme, the Department for Work and Pensions commissioned two London boroughs to pilot a joining up of the process of applying for Attendance Allowance with the assessment for social care support. 'Streamlined assessment' is based on the principle that customers should provide information only once to access more than one service and that there is scope to adopt a customer-centred approach to service provision. This evaluation looks at the experiences and learning from the pilots.

October 21, 2008

This annual survey of employers provides a detailed look at trends in employer-sponsored health coverage, including changes in premiums, employee contributions, cost-sharing provisions, and other relevant information. The survey continued to document the prevalence of high-deductible health plans associated with a savings option and included new questions on the wellness programs and retiree health benefits offered by employers. The 2008 survey included 2,832 randomly selected public and private firms with three or more employees (1,927 of which responded to the full survey and 905 of which responded to an additional question about offering coverage).

This annual survey of employers provides a detailed look at trends in employer-sponsored health coverage, including changes in premiums, employee contributions, cost-sharing provisions, and other relevant information. The survey continued to document the prevalence of high-deductible health plans associated with a savings option and included new questions on the wellness programs and retiree health benefits offered by employers. The 2008 survey included 2,832 randomly selected public and private firms with three or more employees (1,927 of which responded to the full survey and 905 of which responded to an additional question about offering coverage).

Intimate partner violence against women is all too common and takes many forms. The most serious is homicide by an intimate partner. Guns can easily turn domestic violence into domestic homicide. One federal study on homicide among intimate partners found that female intimate partners are more likely to be murdered with a firearm than all other means combined, concluding that “the figures demonstrate the importance of reducing access to firearms in households affected by IPV [intimate partner violence].” Gun use does not need to result in a fatality to involve domestic violence. A study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers analyzed gun use at home and concluded that “hostile gun displays against family members may be more common than gun use in self-defense, and that hostile gun displays are often acts of domestic violence directed against women.”

Intimate partner violence against women is all too common and takes many forms. The most serious is homicide by an intimate partner. Guns can easily turn domestic violence into domestic homicide. One federal study on homicide among intimate partners found that female intimate partners are more likely to be murdered with a firearm than all other means combined, concluding that “the figures demonstrate the importance of reducing access to firearms in households affected by IPV [intimate partner violence].” Gun use does not need to result in a fatality to involve domestic violence. A study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers analyzed gun use at home and concluded that “hostile gun displays against family members may be more common than gun use in self-defense, and that hostile gun displays are often acts of domestic violence directed against women.”

With a contracting retirement income system and increased life expectancy, working longer has emerged as perhaps the most effective lever for improving retirement income security. More work at older ages should be entirely feasible for the bulk of the population, given that today’s workers are healthier and work is less onerous than in the past. Indeed, some indication that people might be willing to work longer comes from the fact that the century-long downward trend in the labor force participation of older men has clearly ceased, with participation rising slightly since the mid-1990s. But the changes to date fall far short of what is required to offset declining Social Security benefits and modest 401(k) balances – an increase in the average retirement age from the current 63 to an estimated 67.

With a contracting retirement income system and increased life expectancy, working longer has emerged as perhaps the most effective lever for improving retirement income security. More work at older ages should be entirely feasible for the bulk of the population, given that today’s workers are healthier and work is less onerous than in the past. Indeed, some indication that people might be willing to work longer comes from the fact that the century-long downward trend in the labor force participation of older men has clearly ceased, with participation rising slightly since the mid-1990s. But the changes to date fall far short of what is required to offset declining Social Security benefits and modest 401(k) balances – an increase in the average retirement age from the current 63 to an estimated 67.

Despite these successes, the challenges CPS faces appear unending. The total number of Texas children has grown rapidly over the last decade, with an increase in the number of children who are at significant risk for abuse and neglect. About 23% of Texas children live in poverty, and 10% live in extreme poverty (meaning in families with incomes below 50% of the federal poverty level). This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of children coming into the state’s care each year. Even though funding for child protection has increased significantly over the last decade, CPS remains grossly underfunded.

Despite these successes, the challenges CPS faces appear unending. The total number of Texas children has grown rapidly over the last decade, with an increase in the number of children who are at significant risk for abuse and neglect. About 23% of Texas children live in poverty, and 10% live in extreme poverty (meaning in families with incomes below 50% of the federal poverty level). This has resulted in a significant increase in the number of children coming into the state’s care each year. Even though funding for child protection has increased significantly over the last decade, CPS remains grossly underfunded.

State and local child welfare agencies are increasingly giving preference to kin when placing children in out-of-home care, a priority that is supported by both federal and state legislation. As states and localities place more and more children with relatives, however, they face special challenges in developing programs and policies that respond effectively to the unique needs of relative caregivers. As the practice of kinship care expands, so too does the need to adapt child welfare systems in ways that ensure the safety of children, provide the appropriate level of monitoring and oversight, and provide needed supports to kinship caregivers and their children. One issue that demands more attention is the subject of this issue brief: structuring foster parent training for kinship caregivers in ways that provide needed information while respecting existing family relationships.

State and local child welfare agencies are increasingly giving preference to kin when placing children in out-of-home care, a priority that is supported by both federal and state legislation. As states and localities place more and more children with relatives, however, they face special challenges in developing programs and policies that respond effectively to the unique needs of relative caregivers. As the practice of kinship care expands, so too does the need to adapt child welfare systems in ways that ensure the safety of children, provide the appropriate level of monitoring and oversight, and provide needed supports to kinship caregivers and their children. One issue that demands more attention is the subject of this issue brief: structuring foster parent training for kinship caregivers in ways that provide needed information while respecting existing family relationships.

The Lifting the Burdens Task Force Review was led by Chief Executive of London Borough of Camden, Moira Gibb. It focuses on those burdens that are a direct result of the local government/Department of Health relationship as well as those that emanate from the Commission for Social Care, and makes recommendations in the areas of:
- Information for performance monitoring, management and assessment
- Service and regulatory inspection
- Regional working to support performance improvement
- Supporting people
- Enhancers and inhibitors to partnership working
The report makes a total of 19 recommendations, identifying where burdens are occurring and how these can be addressed.

The Lifting the Burdens Task Force Review was led by Chief Executive of London Borough of Camden, Moira Gibb. It focuses on those burdens that are a direct result of the local government/Department of Health relationship as well as those that emanate from the Commission for Social Care, and makes recommendations in the areas of:
- Information for performance monitoring, management and assessment
- Service and regulatory inspection
- Regional working to support performance improvement
- Supporting people
- Enhancers and inhibitors to partnership working
The report makes a total of 19 recommendations, identifying where burdens are occurring and how these can be addressed.

October 20, 2008

This Monitoring Progress Report presents the achievements of the EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health in 2007, only the second full year of its operation. The EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health was launched in March 2005 to “provide a common forum for all interested actors at European level where: (a) they can explain their plans to contribute concretely to the pursuit of healthy nutrition, physical activity and the fight against obesity, and where those plans can be discussed; (b) outcomes and experience from actors’ performance can be reported and reviewed, so that over time better evidence is assembled of what works, and Best Practice more clearly defined.” The main purpose of this Monitoring Progress Report is to communicate the achievements of the Platform, as represented in 148 monitoring forms submitted by Platform members.

This Monitoring Progress Report presents the achievements of the EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health in 2007, only the second full year of its operation. The EU Platform on Diet, Physical Activity and Health was launched in March 2005 to “provide a common forum for all interested actors at European level where: (a) they can explain their plans to contribute concretely to the pursuit of healthy nutrition, physical activity and the fight against obesity, and where those plans can be discussed; (b) outcomes and experience from actors’ performance can be reported and reviewed, so that over time better evidence is assembled of what works, and Best Practice more clearly defined.” The main purpose of this Monitoring Progress Report is to communicate the achievements of the Platform, as represented in 148 monitoring forms submitted by Platform members.

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) offers the State of College
Admission each Fall to describe key trends in the transition from high school to college. The 2008 edition marks the sixth anniversary of this report.In recent years, the perceived increase in competition for spots at the nation’s colleges and universities has garnered much media attention and fueled a great deal of anxiety among students, parents and counselors. While college and university admission statistics do show that competition has increased at the most selective colleges, they also demonstrate that the overall acceptance rate, across all four-year institutions, has remained relatively unchanged.

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) offers the State of College
Admission each Fall to describe key trends in the transition from high school to college. The 2008 edition marks the sixth anniversary of this report.In recent years, the perceived increase in competition for spots at the nation’s colleges and universities has garnered much media attention and fueled a great deal of anxiety among students, parents and counselors. While college and university admission statistics do show that competition has increased at the most selective colleges, they also demonstrate that the overall acceptance rate, across all four-year institutions, has remained relatively unchanged.

Fuel poverty - where a household cannot afford to keep warm - damages the health of those living in cold homes and affects their quality of life. The old, children, and those who are disabled or have a long-term illness are especially vulnerable. The main cause of fuel poverty in the UK is a combination of poor energy efficiency in homes, low incomes and high energy prices. The Government has underlined its commitment to tackling fuel poverty through increased funding throughout the present spending round. . . . presents the statistics for the numbers in fuel poverty across the UK for 2006, and provides an update on the actions taken across and outside Government to tackle fuel poverty. Also published for the first time as part of the report is a detailed statistical annex which provides comprehensive analysis of the 2006 figures and projects forward the position for fuel poverty in 2007 and 2008.

Fuel poverty - where a household cannot afford to keep warm - damages the health of those living in cold homes and affects their quality of life. The old, children, and those who are disabled or have a long-term illness are especially vulnerable. The main cause of fuel poverty in the UK is a combination of poor energy efficiency in homes, low incomes and high energy prices. The Government has underlined its commitment to tackling fuel poverty through increased funding throughout the present spending round. . . . presents the statistics for the numbers in fuel poverty across the UK for 2006, and provides an update on the actions taken across and outside Government to tackle fuel poverty. Also published for the first time as part of the report is a detailed statistical annex which provides comprehensive analysis of the 2006 figures and projects forward the position for fuel poverty in 2007 and 2008.

Thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony regarding the use of psychotropic medication among children in the child welfare system. My name is Tricia Lea, Ph.D., and I am submitting testimony on behalf of the State of Tennessee, where I serve as the Director of Medical and Behavioral Services for the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), and the National Association of Public Child Welfare Administrators (NAPCWA), an affiliate of the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA).

Thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony regarding the use of psychotropic medication among children in the child welfare system. My name is Tricia Lea, Ph.D., and I am submitting testimony on behalf of the State of Tennessee, where I serve as the Director of Medical and Behavioral Services for the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), and the National Association of Public Child Welfare Administrators (NAPCWA), an affiliate of the American Public Human Services Association (APHSA).

The Children's Rights Director reported the views of children who were living with private foster parents in 2005. This new report is a follow-up, small-scale survey to check with privately fostered children how the Government's rules and regulations about private fostering are working out for them. Overall, the children reported improvements in private fostering, although there is still wide variability and incomplete implementation of the new legal requirements.

The Children's Rights Director reported the views of children who were living with private foster parents in 2005. This new report is a follow-up, small-scale survey to check with privately fostered children how the Government's rules and regulations about private fostering are working out for them. Overall, the children reported improvements in private fostering, although there is still wide variability and incomplete implementation of the new legal requirements.

Pathways to Work was introduced on a pilot basis following proposals in the 2002 DWP Green Paper. Since then, it has been rolled out in stages, achieving nationwide coverage in April 2008. Pathways is aimed at improving opportunities among people claiming incapacity benefits and has been subject to an extensive, multi-method evaluation. This report synthesises the findings from the various strands of this evaluation relating to new and repeat incapacity benefits claimants in the original seven pilot areas. The results of 13 previously published reports are summarised here to cover customer and adviser views and experiences, the impact and cost-benefit assessment.

Pathways to Work was introduced on a pilot basis following proposals in the 2002 DWP Green Paper. Since then, it has been rolled out in stages, achieving nationwide coverage in April 2008. Pathways is aimed at improving opportunities among people claiming incapacity benefits and has been subject to an extensive, multi-method evaluation. This report synthesises the findings from the various strands of this evaluation relating to new and repeat incapacity benefits claimants in the original seven pilot areas. The results of 13 previously published reports are summarised here to cover customer and adviser views and experiences, the impact and cost-benefit assessment.

October 17, 2008

The Clayman Institute is pleased to present our new research study on dual-careers in academia. Dual-career issues are increasingly important in higher education today. We discovered that over 70 percent of faculty are in dual-career relationships; more than a third are partnered with another academic. This trend is particularly strong among women scientists and people in assistant professor positions. As the number of women receiving Ph.D.s continues to rise, U.S. universities will see an increasing number of high quality candidates for faculty positions partnered with another academic. This presents universities with a challenge, but also a great opportunity to access new candidates and diversify their faculty.

The Clayman Institute is pleased to present our new research study on dual-careers in academia. Dual-career issues are increasingly important in higher education today. We discovered that over 70 percent of faculty are in dual-career relationships; more than a third are partnered with another academic. This trend is particularly strong among women scientists and people in assistant professor positions. As the number of women receiving Ph.D.s continues to rise, U.S. universities will see an increasing number of high quality candidates for faculty positions partnered with another academic. This presents universities with a challenge, but also a great opportunity to access new candidates and diversify their faculty.

This monograph aims to increase awareness of the impact of culture on access to mental health services with the goal of reducing the burden of care for culturally / racially diverse families (Hernandez, Nesman, Isaacs, Callejas, & Mowery, 2006; Huang, 2002). Access is a first step toward receiving needed mental health services and can be seen as the “front porch” of services where people can be linked to services without being identified as a “client.” As on welcoming front porches in communities throughout this country, people feel comfortable spending time together, listening and learning, and building relationships of trust.

This monograph aims to increase awareness of the impact of culture on access to mental health services with the goal of reducing the burden of care for culturally / racially diverse families (Hernandez, Nesman, Isaacs, Callejas, & Mowery, 2006; Huang, 2002). Access is a first step toward receiving needed mental health services and can be seen as the “front porch” of services where people can be linked to services without being identified as a “client.” As on welcoming front porches in communities throughout this country, people feel comfortable spending time together, listening and learning, and building relationships of trust.

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today published the Child Protection Statistics 2007/08.
This publication contains the latest figures on the number of child protection referrals,
number of child protection referrals that resulted in a case conference, number of
registrations, number of de-registrations and number of children on child protection
registers

Scotland’s Chief Statistician today published the Child Protection Statistics 2007/08.
This publication contains the latest figures on the number of child protection referrals,
number of child protection referrals that resulted in a case conference, number of
registrations, number of de-registrations and number of children on child protection
registers

San Antonio families are working harder than ever. In fact, more than 85 percent of the children living in low-income families in San Antonio have parents who are employed, and the majority of these children – about 150,000 – have parents who work full-time, year-round. But, despite their best efforts, these parents are struggling to afford the most basic necessities for their families. In San Antonio, as elsewhere in Texas and the United States, a full-time job at low wages is not enough to make ends meet.

San Antonio families are working harder than ever. In fact, more than 85 percent of the children living in low-income families in San Antonio have parents who are employed, and the majority of these children – about 150,000 – have parents who work full-time, year-round. But, despite their best efforts, these parents are struggling to afford the most basic necessities for their families. In San Antonio, as elsewhere in Texas and the United States, a full-time job at low wages is not enough to make ends meet.

Residential care for children should be a positive resource. Homes providing a strong nurturing culture give children the care they need at certain times in their lives. Residential care which meets the personal, social, health and educational needs of children are much more likely to be safe places for children. This knowledge review examines a particular aspect of keeping children safe and promoting their well-being: managing challenging and disruptive situations.

Residential care for children should be a positive resource. Homes providing a strong nurturing culture give children the care they need at certain times in their lives. Residential care which meets the personal, social, health and educational needs of children are much more likely to be safe places for children. This knowledge review examines a particular aspect of keeping children safe and promoting their well-being: managing challenging and disruptive situations.

This report sets out a feasible and effective methodology for a survey to measure a Disabled Children’s Services Indicator and an approach to its calculation and reporting. The project involved focus groups comprising government policy leads, disability lobby groups and parents of disabled children. In addition, telephone interviews were held with staff in local authorities and primary care trusts and desk research was carried out looking at appropriate survey designs and sample frames.

This report sets out a feasible and effective methodology for a survey to measure a Disabled Children’s Services Indicator and an approach to its calculation and reporting. The project involved focus groups comprising government policy leads, disability lobby groups and parents of disabled children. In addition, telephone interviews were held with staff in local authorities and primary care trusts and desk research was carried out looking at appropriate survey designs and sample frames.

October 16, 2008

The difference in labor force participation rates of men aged 55-64 across the United States is astounding. For example, West Virginia has a participation rate below 60 percent, while South Dakota has a participation rate approaching 90 percent (see Figure 1). This fact in itself has significant implications for the pressures that states will face as the baby boom starts to retire in the face of a contracting retirement income system, declining housing prices, and a lackluster stock market. Despite these marked differences, little is known about the reasons for such variations in work patterns.

The difference in labor force participation rates of men aged 55-64 across the United States is astounding. For example, West Virginia has a participation rate below 60 percent, while South Dakota has a participation rate approaching 90 percent (see Figure 1). This fact in itself has significant implications for the pressures that states will face as the baby boom starts to retire in the face of a contracting retirement income system, declining housing prices, and a lackluster stock market. Despite these marked differences, little is known about the reasons for such variations in work patterns.

- The term ‘assistive technology’ incorporates a wide variety of devices.
- Assistive technology can be supportive, preventive or responsive.
- The increasing proportion of older people in the population makes the use of assistive technology an attractive option in social services.
- Perceptions vary as to whether or not assistive technology has sufficient benefits.

- The term ‘assistive technology’ incorporates a wide variety of devices.
- Assistive technology can be supportive, preventive or responsive.
- The increasing proportion of older people in the population makes the use of assistive technology an attractive option in social services.
- Perceptions vary as to whether or not assistive technology has sufficient benefits.

Use the Income Converter to convert values among federal poverty guidelines, state median income, and annual income (in dollars).

Use the Income Converter to convert values among federal poverty guidelines, state median income, and annual income (in dollars).

The Policy Wizard creates custom tables with information about state and federal policies that assist low-income families and children.

The Policy Wizard creates custom tables with information about state and federal policies that assist low-income families and children.

These e-Learning resources are freely available to all users . . . These resources are particularly suitable for statutory children's services staff, all staff working with children and families in the voluntary and independent organisations with responsibility for the health and well-being of children, educational staff, including teachers, heads, behaviour support workers, school nurses, Teaching Assistants and local safeguarding children's board members. They will also be of interest to staff working within the criminal justice system, families and carers (including foster carers), Social work degree students, health professionals, policy makers and prisoners themselves.

These e-Learning resources are freely available to all users . . . These resources are particularly suitable for statutory children's services staff, all staff working with children and families in the voluntary and independent organisations with responsibility for the health and well-being of children, educational staff, including teachers, heads, behaviour support workers, school nurses, Teaching Assistants and local safeguarding children's board members. They will also be of interest to staff working within the criminal justice system, families and carers (including foster carers), Social work degree students, health professionals, policy makers and prisoners themselves.

October 15, 2008

- Overall rates of abortion in the United States peaked soon after the procedure was legalized
in 1973, remained fairly constant through the 1980s, and have declined steadily since then.
However, the overall rate masks large differences and varying patterns across time for demographic subgroups.
- A substantial drop in the abortion rates of teenagers and women aged 20–24 accounts
for much of the overall decline from 1989 to 2004. During this period, the abortion rate of
women in their 30s changed little, while the rate of women aged 40 or older increased.
- The majority of abortions (57%) are obtained by women in their 20s. Minors account for
fewer than 7% of all abortions.

- Overall rates of abortion in the United States peaked soon after the procedure was legalized
in 1973, remained fairly constant through the 1980s, and have declined steadily since then.
However, the overall rate masks large differences and varying patterns across time for demographic subgroups.
- A substantial drop in the abortion rates of teenagers and women aged 20–24 accounts
for much of the overall decline from 1989 to 2004. During this period, the abortion rate of
women in their 30s changed little, while the rate of women aged 40 or older increased.
- The majority of abortions (57%) are obtained by women in their 20s. Minors account for
fewer than 7% of all abortions.

Use the Demographics Wizard to create custom tables of national- and state-level statistics about low-income or poor children. Choose areas of interest, such as parental education, parental employment, marital status, and race/ethnicity—among many other variables.

Use the Demographics Wizard to create custom tables of national- and state-level statistics about low-income or poor children. Choose areas of interest, such as parental education, parental employment, marital status, and race/ethnicity—among many other variables.

- Black and minority ethnic (BME) parents with mental health problems are likely to experience poverty, unemployment, and homelessness.
- Some common family structures, such as lone parenting, can increase the risks arising from isolation and lack of support for both parents and their children.
- People from BME communities are poorly served by mental health services.

- Black and minority ethnic (BME) parents with mental health problems are likely to experience poverty, unemployment, and homelessness.
- Some common family structures, such as lone parenting, can increase the risks arising from isolation and lack of support for both parents and their children.
- People from BME communities are poorly served by mental health services.

8 MILLION American children are without health insurance, more than 3 MILLION are reported abused and neglected, nearly 2 MILLION have parents in prison, and 13 MILLION live in poverty’s grip. A key ingredient in the development of the nation’s great wealth has long been its ability and willingness to invest in the creation of opportunities for all its children, helping them become productive members of society. But in recent decades, as seen in Chart 1.1, national investments in a wide range of children’s health and social programs have been declining as a percentage of domestic spending in the federal budget.

8 MILLION American children are without health insurance, more than 3 MILLION are reported abused and neglected, nearly 2 MILLION have parents in prison, and 13 MILLION live in poverty’s grip. A key ingredient in the development of the nation’s great wealth has long been its ability and willingness to invest in the creation of opportunities for all its children, helping them become productive members of society. But in recent decades, as seen in Chart 1.1, national investments in a wide range of children’s health and social programs have been declining as a percentage of domestic spending in the federal budget.

During the 1990s, the federal government promised low-income families that work would pay. Parents moved into jobs in droves in response to new welfare rules requiring work, tax credits, and other work supports that boosted take-home pay. These policy changes were enacted during one of the strongest labor markets on record. A decade later, the labor market is tepid, and policies have to be re-evaluated keeping in mind the circumstances of today’s families. Unfortunately, the record shows that low-income families have not progressed much. One-third of America’s families with children are low income, meaning their incomes fall below twice the federal poverty level (about $40,000 for a family of four in 2006). Many don’t bring home enough to cover the everyday costs of living. Yet, four in five of these families work.

During the 1990s, the federal government promised low-income families that work would pay. Parents moved into jobs in droves in response to new welfare rules requiring work, tax credits, and other work supports that boosted take-home pay. These policy changes were enacted during one of the strongest labor markets on record. A decade later, the labor market is tepid, and policies have to be re-evaluated keeping in mind the circumstances of today’s families. Unfortunately, the record shows that low-income families have not progressed much. One-third of America’s families with children are low income, meaning their incomes fall below twice the federal poverty level (about $40,000 for a family of four in 2006). Many don’t bring home enough to cover the everyday costs of living. Yet, four in five of these families work.

If our children do not thrive, our societies will not thrive. Decision-makers, both public and private, must take children’s well-being into account as they undertake social and economic development. . . . All children must be prepared for the future. Some groups of children and families are not doing as well as others in the new knowledge-based, global economy. Disparities that thwart the healthy development of children in the present and limit the life chances of children in the future must be addressed.

If our children do not thrive, our societies will not thrive. Decision-makers, both public and private, must take children’s well-being into account as they undertake social and economic development. . . . All children must be prepared for the future. Some groups of children and families are not doing as well as others in the new knowledge-based, global economy. Disparities that thwart the healthy development of children in the present and limit the life chances of children in the future must be addressed.

October 14, 2008

This is our first report looking at the work we do to uphold standards and protect people who use social care services. This report captures the work we have done over the past five years to regulate the workforce, from assessing the suitability of someone to join the register to investigating complaints against a Registered Social Worker or student and taking action where misconduct is found. It examines the themes that have emerged and details how we are responding to them

This is our first report looking at the work we do to uphold standards and protect people who use social care services. This report captures the work we have done over the past five years to regulate the workforce, from assessing the suitability of someone to join the register to investigating complaints against a Registered Social Worker or student and taking action where misconduct is found. It examines the themes that have emerged and details how we are responding to them

The majority of American women have health insurance either through an employer or through a public program such as Medicaid. In 2007, nearly two-thirds of all women aged 18 to 64 had insurance through an employer, and another 16% had insurance through a public program. In contrast, a very small percentage of nonelderly women—just 7% in 2007—purchase health coverage directly from insurance companies in what is known as the “individual market.” Because this is the least common way to get health insurance, few people have any idea just how difficult it can be to purchase coverage in the individual market. For the 18% of women who are currently uninsured—those who lack access to employer coverage, or who earn too much to qualify for public programs—the individual insurance market is often the last resort for coverage.

The majority of American women have health insurance either through an employer or through a public program such as Medicaid. In 2007, nearly two-thirds of all women aged 18 to 64 had insurance through an employer, and another 16% had insurance through a public program. In contrast, a very small percentage of nonelderly women—just 7% in 2007—purchase health coverage directly from insurance companies in what is known as the “individual market.” Because this is the least common way to get health insurance, few people have any idea just how difficult it can be to purchase coverage in the individual market. For the 18% of women who are currently uninsured—those who lack access to employer coverage, or who earn too much to qualify for public programs—the individual insurance market is often the last resort for coverage.

National rates of homicide victimization against American Indian and Alaska Native women are second to those of their African American counterparts, but higher than those for white women. However, these national averages hide the extremely high rates of murder against American Indian and Alaska Native women present in some counties comprised primarily of tribal lands. Some counties have rates of murder against American Indian and Alaska Native women that are over ten times the national average. Like other women, American Indian and Alaska Native women are more likely to be killed by their intimate partners compared to other offenders.

National rates of homicide victimization against American Indian and Alaska Native women are second to those of their African American counterparts, but higher than those for white women. However, these national averages hide the extremely high rates of murder against American Indian and Alaska Native women present in some counties comprised primarily of tribal lands. Some counties have rates of murder against American Indian and Alaska Native women that are over ten times the national average. Like other women, American Indian and Alaska Native women are more likely to be killed by their intimate partners compared to other offenders.

Child Welfare Outcomes 2002-2005: Report to Congress (Child Welfare Outcomes Report) is the seventh in a series of annual reports from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (the Department).1 The reports are developed in accordance with section 479A of the Social Security Act (as amended by the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997) and provide information pertaining to State performance on the following national child welfare outcomes . . . . The outcomes reflect widely accepted performance objectives for child welfare practice. They were established by the Department in consultation with State and local child welfare agency administrators, child advocacy organizations, child welfare researchers, State legislators, and other experts in the child welfare field.

Child Welfare Outcomes 2002-2005: Report to Congress (Child Welfare Outcomes Report) is the seventh in a series of annual reports from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (the Department).1 The reports are developed in accordance with section 479A of the Social Security Act (as amended by the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997) and provide information pertaining to State performance on the following national child welfare outcomes . . . . The outcomes reflect widely accepted performance objectives for child welfare practice. They were established by the Department in consultation with State and local child welfare agency administrators, child advocacy organizations, child welfare researchers, State legislators, and other experts in the child welfare field.

The Family Resource Simulator shows the impact of federal and state "work support" benefits on the budgets of low- to moderate-income families. Results illustrate how a hypothetical family's resources change as earnings increase, taking public benefits into account.

The Family Resource Simulator shows the impact of federal and state "work support" benefits on the budgets of low- to moderate-income families. Results illustrate how a hypothetical family's resources change as earnings increase, taking public benefits into account.

Welcome to Where We Are On TV, GLAAD's overview of diversity on television. At the launch of the 2008-2009 television season, GLAAD estimates that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) scripted characters represent 2.6% of all scripted series regular characters on the five broadcast networks: ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, and The CW. This is nearly double last year, with 16 series regular characters identified as LGBT. In contrast, the number of LGBT series regular characters found on scripted programming on mainstream cable networks has decreased from last year’s analysis, from 40 to 32.

Welcome to Where We Are On TV, GLAAD's overview of diversity on television. At the launch of the 2008-2009 television season, GLAAD estimates that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) scripted characters represent 2.6% of all scripted series regular characters on the five broadcast networks: ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, and The CW. This is nearly double last year, with 16 series regular characters identified as LGBT. In contrast, the number of LGBT series regular characters found on scripted programming on mainstream cable networks has decreased from last year’s analysis, from 40 to 32.

October 13, 2008

This report presents new findings on how an innovative post-employment programme in Great Britain is affecting the employment, earnings and benefits receipt of long-term unemployed individuals. This initiative, called the Employment Retention and Advancement (ERA) demonstration programme, is being evaluated though a large-scale randomised control trial. While a companion report presents effects for lone parents,[1] this report focuses on the experiences of the long-term unemployed group, most of whom are men.

This report presents new findings on how an innovative post-employment programme in Great Britain is affecting the employment, earnings and benefits receipt of long-term unemployed individuals. This initiative, called the Employment Retention and Advancement (ERA) demonstration programme, is being evaluated though a large-scale randomised control trial. While a companion report presents effects for lone parents,[1] this report focuses on the experiences of the long-term unemployed group, most of whom are men.

The median number of years that wage and salary workers had been with their current employer was 4.1 years in January 2008, little changed from 4.0 years in January 2006.

The median number of years that wage and salary workers had been with their current employer was 4.1 years in January 2008, little changed from 4.0 years in January 2006.

This Viewpoint reviews some of the key proposals in adult social care of the last ten years from an equity perspective. It uses the analysis to argue that we can develop practical policies that are informed by clearly stated equity principles which serve to ensure that the most disadvantaged groups of people are treated more fairly.

This Viewpoint reviews some of the key proposals in adult social care of the last ten years from an equity perspective. It uses the analysis to argue that we can develop practical policies that are informed by clearly stated equity principles which serve to ensure that the most disadvantaged groups of people are treated more fairly.

“The situation facing First Nations children and their families today has never been worse,” noted Canadian Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Phil Fontaine at the 2006 launch of AFN’s Leadership Action Plan on First Nations Child Welfare. “There are more than 27,000 First Nations children in care today…. three times the number…in residential schools at the height of their operations.”

“The situation facing First Nations children and their families today has never been worse,” noted Canadian Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Phil Fontaine at the 2006 launch of AFN’s Leadership Action Plan on First Nations Child Welfare. “There are more than 27,000 First Nations children in care today…. three times the number…in residential schools at the height of their operations.”

New York City Administration for Children’s Services Child Protective Investigation

New York City Administration for Children’s Services Child Protective Investigation

The Basic Needs Budget Calculator shows how much it takes for families to afford minimum daily necessities. It also allows you to create customized results by changing assumptions about basic family expenses.

The Basic Needs Budget Calculator shows how much it takes for families to afford minimum daily necessities. It also allows you to create customized results by changing assumptions about basic family expenses.

This research report focuses on Public Service Agreement 21, in particular, indicator 4 which measures the number of people who feel able to influence decisions in their local area. This research examines people's understanding of the key terms of local, influence and decision making; looks at how views and responses vary between groups; and explores the barriers and facilitators to feeling able to have an influence. The report also explores the strategies generated from this research which could be implemented to increase this type of empowerment.

This research report focuses on Public Service Agreement 21, in particular, indicator 4 which measures the number of people who feel able to influence decisions in their local area. This research examines people's understanding of the key terms of local, influence and decision making; looks at how views and responses vary between groups; and explores the barriers and facilitators to feeling able to have an influence. The report also explores the strategies generated from this research which could be implemented to increase this type of empowerment.

October 10, 2008

Social justice is a matter of life and death. It affects the way people live, their consequent chance of illness, and their risk of premature death. We watch in wonder as life expectancy and good health continue to increase in parts of the world and in alarm as they fail to improve in others.

Social justice is a matter of life and death. It affects the way people live, their consequent chance of illness, and their risk of premature death. We watch in wonder as life expectancy and good health continue to increase in parts of the world and in alarm as they fail to improve in others.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of a decline in values’. Anthony Grayling argues that it is the responsibility of each of us to confront such difficulties by getting them in proportion; working out if they really are problems; and deciding what we can do about them, individually and collectively.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of a decline in values’. Anthony Grayling argues that it is the responsibility of each of us to confront such difficulties by getting them in proportion; working out if they really are problems; and deciding what we can do about them, individually and collectively.

In 2001, it is estimated that 270 million Indians belonged in the 12-24 years age group. While attention is being focused on these young people’s potential for social transformation, some of them – such as those with disabilities – remain alienated from mainstream debates on development. It may be estimated that there are somewhere between 5 and 5.5 million persons with disabilities in the 12-24 years age group, so they form a significant minority. Little is known about their experiences, however, nor how they and the others around them make sense of their lives and perceive their transition to adulthood as their surrounding milieu is transformed. In this paper I adapt the framework of transitions proposed by the World Bank’s World Development Report 200 7 to examine opportunities for young people with disabilities in the areas of learning, work and citizenship. I use existing literature to review secondary data and to analyse the lived experiences of young people with disabilities. What are their prospects in a time of optimism for Indian youth?

In 2001, it is estimated that 270 million Indians belonged in the 12-24 years age group. While attention is being focused on these young people’s potential for social transformation, some of them – such as those with disabilities – remain alienated from mainstream debates on development. It may be estimated that there are somewhere between 5 and 5.5 million persons with disabilities in the 12-24 years age group, so they form a significant minority. Little is known about their experiences, however, nor how they and the others around them make sense of their lives and perceive their transition to adulthood as their surrounding milieu is transformed. In this paper I adapt the framework of transitions proposed by the World Bank’s World Development Report 200 7 to examine opportunities for young people with disabilities in the areas of learning, work and citizenship. I use existing literature to review secondary data and to analyse the lived experiences of young people with disabilities. What are their prospects in a time of optimism for Indian youth?

What contribution can community groups make to tackling poverty in their neighbourhood? Glenn Arradon and Steve Wyler from the Development Trusts Association argue that community-led enterprise organisations including development trusts can act as a driver for positive change, creating a self-help and problem-solving culture, and helping individuals move out of poverty.

What contribution can community groups make to tackling poverty in their neighbourhood? Glenn Arradon and Steve Wyler from the Development Trusts Association argue that community-led enterprise organisations including development trusts can act as a driver for positive change, creating a self-help and problem-solving culture, and helping individuals move out of poverty.

Government statistics indicate that over 500,000 children in the United States spend part or all of the year in substitute care and not with their birth families. This number only continues to rise, as does the need for effective, supportive foster and special needs adoptive families. This booklet is designed to provide information and self-assessment guides to persons considering foster parenting and/or special needs adoption. The information on the following pages will help interested persons make an informed decision on whether to become a foster and/or special needs adoptive parent.

Government statistics indicate that over 500,000 children in the United States spend part or all of the year in substitute care and not with their birth families. This number only continues to rise, as does the need for effective, supportive foster and special needs adoptive families. This booklet is designed to provide information and self-assessment guides to persons considering foster parenting and/or special needs adoption. The information on the following pages will help interested persons make an informed decision on whether to become a foster and/or special needs adoptive parent.

- A majority (53.4 percent) of current alcohol users aged 12 to 20 drank at someone else's home the last time they used alcohol, and another 30.3 percent drank in their own home
- The percentage of underage alcohol users who had their most recent drink in a car or other vehicle peaked at 10.1 percent at age 16 (12.8 percent of females and 7.3 percent of males)
- Among 20-year-old current drinkers, 20.0 percent of females drank in a restaurant, bar, or club the last time they used alcohol compared with 10.2 percent of males

- A majority (53.4 percent) of current alcohol users aged 12 to 20 drank at someone else's home the last time they used alcohol, and another 30.3 percent drank in their own home
- The percentage of underage alcohol users who had their most recent drink in a car or other vehicle peaked at 10.1 percent at age 16 (12.8 percent of females and 7.3 percent of males)
- Among 20-year-old current drinkers, 20.0 percent of females drank in a restaurant, bar, or club the last time they used alcohol compared with 10.2 percent of males

This Toolkit is designed to assist programme planners and managers in designing, conducting, and evaluating advocacy campaigns to advance the implementation of existing policies, with a specific focus on young people’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights. The international community and many national governments have endorsed young people’s rights to reproductive and sexual health information and services. SRH laws, strategies, and policies have been passed in over 150 countries; unfortunately, in many countries, these commitments have not been translated into programmes and services on the ground.

This Toolkit is designed to assist programme planners and managers in designing, conducting, and evaluating advocacy campaigns to advance the implementation of existing policies, with a specific focus on young people’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights. The international community and many national governments have endorsed young people’s rights to reproductive and sexual health information and services. SRH laws, strategies, and policies have been passed in over 150 countries; unfortunately, in many countries, these commitments have not been translated into programmes and services on the ground.

October 9, 2008

This report presents the first information from the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an annual survey of the civilian, noninstitutionalized population of the United States aged 12 years old or older. This initial report on the 2007 data presents national estimates of rates of use, numbers of users, and other measures related to illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products. Measures related to mental health problems also are presented, including data on depression and on the co-occurrence of substance use and mental health problems.

This report presents the first information from the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an annual survey of the civilian, noninstitutionalized population of the United States aged 12 years old or older. This initial report on the 2007 data presents national estimates of rates of use, numbers of users, and other measures related to illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products. Measures related to mental health problems also are presented, including data on depression and on the co-occurrence of substance use and mental health problems.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘a decline in values’. Anthony Browne argues that, in the face of an unprecedented and unsettling decline in values, discussing the problem and its causes is the first step towards making things better.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘a decline in values’. Anthony Browne argues that, in the face of an unprecedented and unsettling decline in values, discussing the problem and its causes is the first step towards making things better.

The 218 million children suffering from child labour worldwide, of which the products are also consumed in Europe, are a dramatic illustration of the mismatch between the rights of the economically powerful and the rights of the child. Where regulations in other fields abound, including those regulating the rights of companies, children seem to be left to fend for themselves in the national international marketplace. Also trade relations are of often incoherent with policies working towards the implementation of human rights. That is absolutely unacceptable.

The 218 million children suffering from child labour worldwide, of which the products are also consumed in Europe, are a dramatic illustration of the mismatch between the rights of the economically powerful and the rights of the child. Where regulations in other fields abound, including those regulating the rights of companies, children seem to be left to fend for themselves in the national international marketplace. Also trade relations are of often incoherent with policies working towards the implementation of human rights. That is absolutely unacceptable.

This document describes a pilot scheme in which parents, carers or guardians of children and young people can ask the police to tell them if a person has a record for child sexual offences. If police checks show that they have a record for child sexual offences or other offences that might put the child at risk, the police will consider sharing this information with the child’s parent, carer or guardian.

This document describes a pilot scheme in which parents, carers or guardians of children and young people can ask the police to tell them if a person has a record for child sexual offences. If police checks show that they have a record for child sexual offences or other offences that might put the child at risk, the police will consider sharing this information with the child’s parent, carer or guardian.

Key findings:
- In 2005-2006, 15% of U. S. children aged 4-17 years had parents who talked to a health care provider or school staff about their child's emotional or behavioral difficulties. This included 18% of boys and 11% of girls.
- Approximately 5% of children were prescribed medication for difficulties with emotions or behavior. A large majority of these children (89%) were prescribed medication for difficulties with concentration, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, which are symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Approximately 5% of children received "treatment other than medication" for emotional or behavioral difficulties. Most of these children - 60% - received this treatment from a mental health private practice, clinic, or center.

Key findings:
- In 2005-2006, 15% of U. S. children aged 4-17 years had parents who talked to a health care provider or school staff about their child's emotional or behavioral difficulties. This included 18% of boys and 11% of girls.
- Approximately 5% of children were prescribed medication for difficulties with emotions or behavior. A large majority of these children (89%) were prescribed medication for difficulties with concentration, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, which are symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Approximately 5% of children received "treatment other than medication" for emotional or behavioral difficulties. Most of these children - 60% - received this treatment from a mental health private practice, clinic, or center.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘a decline in values’. Julia Neuberger argues that we can change society for the better by deliberately rebuilding trust, opening up our institutions, and stopping the ‘blame culture’ from preventing simple acts of kindness and altruism.

The JRF’s recent public consultation revealed a strong sense of unease about some of the changes shaping British society. This Viewpoint continues the discussion about modern ‘social evils’ on the theme of ‘a decline in values’. Julia Neuberger argues that we can change society for the better by deliberately rebuilding trust, opening up our institutions, and stopping the ‘blame culture’ from preventing simple acts of kindness and altruism.

The South African state awards unconditional means-tested cash transfers to the caregivers of some eight million poor children. Amidst increasing demands on the state for social assistance, the question has been asked: should the Child Support Grant (CSG) be made conditional on education or health related behaviour to enhance its effectiveness? Issues relating to the popular Latin American conditional cash transfer programmes for children are summarised. The history, current reach and impact of the CSG are described, as well as administrative strengths and weaknesses in delivery. We argue that, to be in line with South Africa’s Constitution, the structural problems of the supply side of education and health provision should be addressed, as well as problems with the delivery of the CSG, rather than considering whether to impose conditionalities that could further exclude poor children and their caregivers from this modest but vital form of support.

The South African state awards unconditional means-tested cash transfers to the caregivers of some eight million poor children. Amidst increasing demands on the state for social assistance, the question has been asked: should the Child Support Grant (CSG) be made conditional on education or health related behaviour to enhance its effectiveness? Issues relating to the popular Latin American conditional cash transfer programmes for children are summarised. The history, current reach and impact of the CSG are described, as well as administrative strengths and weaknesses in delivery. We argue that, to be in line with South Africa’s Constitution, the structural problems of the supply side of education and health provision should be addressed, as well as problems with the delivery of the CSG, rather than considering whether to impose conditionalities that could further exclude poor children and their caregivers from this modest but vital form of support.

October 8, 2008

£500 million of public money could be wasted on the next census according to a new report. The New Local Government Network claim that the information gathered will be out of date by the time it is published, will be insufficiently detailed and could underestimate the number of people living in Britain. The report argues that the survey, which is conducted every ten years and due to occur next in 2011, cannot accurately reflect the true state of Britain because of poor quality information on households, high rates of population mobility and a growing reluctance to fill in official forms.

£500 million of public money could be wasted on the next census according to a new report. The New Local Government Network claim that the information gathered will be out of date by the time it is published, will be insufficiently detailed and could underestimate the number of people living in Britain. The report argues that the survey, which is conducted every ten years and due to occur next in 2011, cannot accurately reflect the true state of Britain because of poor quality information on households, high rates of population mobility and a growing reluctance to fill in official forms.

This narrated slide tutorial provides an overview of health care coverage and cost challenges for women over age 65.

This narrated slide tutorial provides an overview of health care coverage and cost challenges for women over age 65.

These profiles review the major features of the countries’ health coverage, financing and service delivery policies and provide links to articles with more information. More countries will be added in the coming months.

These profiles review the major features of the countries’ health coverage, financing and service delivery policies and provide links to articles with more information. More countries will be added in the coming months.

The ‘Four Ps’: Goals of the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS initiative:
• Prevent mother-to-children transmission of HIV. By 2010, offer appropriate services to 80 per cent of women in need.
• Provide paediatric treatment. Provide antiretroviral treatment, cotrimoxazole or both to
80 per cent of children in need.
• Prevent infection among adolescents and young people. Reduce the percentage of young people living with HIV by 25 per cent globally.
• Protect and support children affected by HIV and AIDS Provide services that reach 80 per cent of children most in need.

The ‘Four Ps’: Goals of the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS initiative:
• Prevent mother-to-children transmission of HIV. By 2010, offer appropriate services to 80 per cent of women in need.
• Provide paediatric treatment. Provide antiretroviral treatment, cotrimoxazole or both to
80 per cent of children in need.
• Prevent infection among adolescents and young people. Reduce the percentage of young people living with HIV by 25 per cent globally.
• Protect and support children affected by HIV and AIDS Provide services that reach 80 per cent of children most in need.

This annual publication contains national figures on referrals, assessment and children and young people who are the subjects of child protection plans (on the child protection register) for year ending March 2008. The publication contains historical data for comparison purposes.

This annual publication contains national figures on referrals, assessment and children and young people who are the subjects of child protection plans (on the child protection register) for year ending March 2008. The publication contains historical data for comparison purposes.

A listing of states that provide online access to licensing standards for residential child placement facilities from the National Resource Center for Family-Centered Practice and Permanency Planning at the Hunter College School of Social Work.

A listing of states that provide online access to licensing standards for residential child placement facilities from the National Resource Center for Family-Centered Practice and Permanency Planning at the Hunter College School of Social Work.

This is the Fraser Institute’s third report comparing Canada-US price differences for the prescription drugs that are most important to Canadian seniors (aged 60 and older). This year’s report analyzes prices for the drugs most commonly prescribed to Canadian seniors in 2007, and compares Canadian and American prices for brand name and generic prescription drugs separately.

This is the Fraser Institute’s third report comparing Canada-US price differences for the prescription drugs that are most important to Canadian seniors (aged 60 and older). This year’s report analyzes prices for the drugs most commonly prescribed to Canadian seniors in 2007, and compares Canadian and American prices for brand name and generic prescription drugs separately.

Letter containing the document Key messages for commissioners of cancer services for teenagers and young adults, developed by the National Cancer Action Team (with advice and support from an expert working group) at the request of the Children and Young People Improving Outcomes Guidance (CYPIOG) Advisory Group to support the implementation of National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance, Improving outcomes for children and young people with cancer.

Letter containing the document Key messages for commissioners of cancer services for teenagers and young adults, developed by the National Cancer Action Team (with advice and support from an expert working group) at the request of the Children and Young People Improving Outcomes Guidance (CYPIOG) Advisory Group to support the implementation of National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance, Improving outcomes for children and young people with cancer.

October 7, 2008

Inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPF) that split-billed transition stays did not always cancel the split bills and rebill the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) using prospective payment system rates and rules as required. Based on our sample results, we estimated that incorrectly billed transition stays for which IPFs had not canceled split bills and resubmitted correct bills resulted in about $9 million in overpayments in 2005. CMS instructions state that if a beneficiary's stay begins before and ends on or after the date on which the IPF becomes subject to the prospective payment system (a "transition stay"), the fiscal intermediary must base its payments to the facility on prospective payment rates and rules. The instructions also state that IPFs that split the stay and submit two separate claims must cancel the split bills and then rebill the fiscal intermediary after the cancellation has been accepted.

Inpatient psychiatric facilities (IPF) that split-billed transition stays did not always cancel the split bills and rebill the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) using prospective payment system rates and rules as required. Based on our sample results, we estimated that incorrectly billed transition stays for which IPFs had not canceled split bills and resubmitted correct bills resulted in about $9 million in overpayments in 2005. CMS instructions state that if a beneficiary's stay begins before and ends on or after the date on which the IPF becomes subject to the prospective payment system (a "transition stay"), the fiscal intermediary must base its payments to the facility on prospective payment rates and rules. The instructions also state that IPFs that split the stay and submit two separate claims must cancel the split bills and then rebill the fiscal intermediary after the cancellation has been accepted.

The state of health care quality in the U.S and the federal role in tracking and measuring health care quality and opportunities for system improvement are covered in this tutorial.

The state of health care quality in the U.S and the federal role in tracking and measuring health care quality and opportunities for system improvement are covered in this tutorial.

Key findings:
- In any 2-week period, 5.4% of Americans 12 years of age and older experienced depression. Rates were higher in 40-59 year olds, women, and non-Hispanic black persons than in other demographic groups.
- Rates of depression were higher among poor persons than among those with higher incomes.
- Approximately 80% of persons with depression reported some level of functional impairment because of their depression, and 27% reported serious difficulties in work and home life.
Only 29% of all persons with depression reported contacting a mental health professional in the past year, and among the subset with severe depression, only 39% reported contact.

Key findings:
- In any 2-week period, 5.4% of Americans 12 years of age and older experienced depression. Rates were higher in 40-59 year olds, women, and non-Hispanic black persons than in other demographic groups.
- Rates of depression were higher among poor persons than among those with higher incomes.
- Approximately 80% of persons with depression reported some level of functional impairment because of their depression, and 27% reported serious difficulties in work and home life.
Only 29% of all persons with depression reported contacting a mental health professional in the past year, and among the subset with severe depression, only 39% reported contact.

Presents several stories of child abduction survivors and how they have grown and developed from their traumatic experiences. This guide, written by survivors of child abduction, provides information to help other child abduction survivors cope with their own experiences and begin their journeys towards a better future. Additionally, this guide contains space where readers can write down their own thoughts and feelings in response to each personal story.

Presents several stories of child abduction survivors and how they have grown and developed from their traumatic experiences. This guide, written by survivors of child abduction, provides information to help other child abduction survivors cope with their own experiences and begin their journeys towards a better future. Additionally, this guide contains space where readers can write down their own thoughts and feelings in response to each personal story.

Laboratory tests – conducted for EWG by one of the world’s leading scientific authorities on fire retardants – found that in 19 of 20 U.S. families, concentrations of the chemicals known as PBDEs were significantly higher in 1.5- to 4-year-old children than their mothers. In total 11 different flame retardants were found in these children, and 86 percent of the time the chemicals were present at higher levels in the children than their mothers.

Laboratory tests – conducted for EWG by one of the world’s leading scientific authorities on fire retardants – found that in 19 of 20 U.S. families, concentrations of the chemicals known as PBDEs were significantly higher in 1.5- to 4-year-old children than their mothers. In total 11 different flame retardants were found in these children, and 86 percent of the time the chemicals were present at higher levels in the children than their mothers.

This guide is aimed at the wide range of people who are affected by suicide or other sudden, traumatic death. It aims firstly to help people who are unexpectedly bereaved in this way. It also provides information for healthcare and other professionals who come into contact with bereaved people, to assist them in providing help and to suggest how they themselves may find support if they need it.

This guide is aimed at the wide range of people who are affected by suicide or other sudden, traumatic death. It aims firstly to help people who are unexpectedly bereaved in this way. It also provides information for healthcare and other professionals who come into contact with bereaved people, to assist them in providing help and to suggest how they themselves may find support if they need it.

October 6, 2008

During in-depth sexual and reproductive history interviews conducted in 2003, 36 women and men were asked about the relational and emotional circumstances surrounding each pregnancy, as well as their thoughts about conceiving a baby with both current and previous partners. An ethnographic, inductive approach was used to analyze the data. . . . .For some individuals, the perceived emotional and sexual benefits of conception may outweigh the goal of averting conception, even when a child is not wholly intended. Future behavioral studies should collect more nuanced data on pregnancy-related pleasures. Clinicians and patients would benefit from clearer guidelines for assessing ambivalence and for linking ambivalent clients with longer-acting methods that are not coitus-dependent.

During in-depth sexual and reproductive history interviews conducted in 2003, 36 women and men were asked about the relational and emotional circumstances surrounding each pregnancy, as well as their thoughts about conceiving a baby with both current and previous partners. An ethnographic, inductive approach was used to analyze the data. . . . .For some individuals, the perceived emotional and sexual benefits of conception may outweigh the goal of averting conception, even when a child is not wholly intended. Future behavioral studies should collect more nuanced data on pregnancy-related pleasures. Clinicians and patients would benefit from clearer guidelines for assessing ambivalence and for linking ambivalent clients with longer-acting methods that are not coitus-dependent.

Despite upward realignment between 2002 and 2006, fees paid by most English councils still offer inadequate returns to care homes for older people. This has reduced choice for council-supported residents and led to a virtual cessation of development of new care home capacity catering primarily for them. However, such is the projected demographic pressure of demand that substantial expansion of capacity will be required. Independent sector providers will not develop such capacity unless fees offer a reasonable return. Building on reports published in 2002 and 2004, this study refines and develops guidance to enable care commissioners to identify the reasonable costs that typical, efficient care home operators may incur, and the reasonable fees they may expect to receive. The study rejects an average cost approach, as this would include the costs of inefficient operators.

Despite upward realignment between 2002 and 2006, fees paid by most English councils still offer inadequate returns to care homes for older people. This has reduced choice for council-supported residents and led to a virtual cessation of development of new care home capacity catering primarily for them. However, such is the projected demographic pressure of demand that substantial expansion of capacity will be required. Independent sector providers will not develop such capacity unless fees offer a reasonable return. Building on reports published in 2002 and 2004, this study refines and develops guidance to enable care commissioners to identify the reasonable costs that typical, efficient care home operators may incur, and the reasonable fees they may expect to receive. The study rejects an average cost approach, as this would include the costs of inefficient operators.

Most low-income families have inadequate retirement savings. They also are much less likely than higher-income households to participate in employer-based retirement savings plans or to have individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Fewer than 8 percent of individuals age 16 through 59 with household income below the poverty line hold a 401(k) retirement account or an IRA. Individuals with extremely low earnings, part-time employees, and employees with less than a high school diploma are especially unlikely to participate in an employer-based retirement plan. Moreover, even when low-income households participate in retirement saving plans, they tend to contribute a smaller share of their income than higher-income households do.

Most low-income families have inadequate retirement savings. They also are much less likely than higher-income households to participate in employer-based retirement savings plans or to have individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Fewer than 8 percent of individuals age 16 through 59 with household income below the poverty line hold a 401(k) retirement account or an IRA. Individuals with extremely low earnings, part-time employees, and employees with less than a high school diploma are especially unlikely to participate in an employer-based retirement plan. Moreover, even when low-income households participate in retirement saving plans, they tend to contribute a smaller share of their income than higher-income households do.

This testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support describes the size and characteristics of the low-wage workforce and the jobs low-wage workers hold, the prospects for wage growth and upward mobility, and policies and programs that help support low-wage workers and their families.

This testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support describes the size and characteristics of the low-wage workforce and the jobs low-wage workers hold, the prospects for wage growth and upward mobility, and policies and programs that help support low-wage workers and their families.

The Foundation for Child Development Child and Youth Well-Being Index (CWI) Project at Duke University, issues an annual comprehensive measure of how children are faring in the United States. The CWI is based on a composite of 28 Key Indicators of well-being that are grouped into seven Quality-of-Life Domains, including economic well-being, health, safety, educational attainment, and participation in schooling, economic, and political institutions. This year’s CWI is an updated measure of trends over the 31-year period from 1975 to 2006, with projections for 2007.

The Foundation for Child Development Child and Youth Well-Being Index (CWI) Project at Duke University, issues an annual comprehensive measure of how children are faring in the United States. The CWI is based on a composite of 28 Key Indicators of well-being that are grouped into seven Quality-of-Life Domains, including economic well-being, health, safety, educational attainment, and participation in schooling, economic, and political institutions. This year’s CWI is an updated measure of trends over the 31-year period from 1975 to 2006, with projections for 2007.

When Congress reformed the welfare system in 1996, major goals of the legislation were to increase employment and income of needy families and to decrease child poverty. Another major goal was to improve child outcomes through increased parental employment and earnings along with other provisions of welfare reform. However, there was also concern that increased work effort by single mothers would lead to less time spent with their children and that some child outcomes might deteriorate.

When Congress reformed the welfare system in 1996, major goals of the legislation were to increase employment and income of needy families and to decrease child poverty. Another major goal was to improve child outcomes through increased parental employment and earnings along with other provisions of welfare reform. However, there was also concern that increased work effort by single mothers would lead to less time spent with their children and that some child outcomes might deteriorate.

- There were 59,500 children looked after at 31 March 2008, 1 per cent fewer than last year's figure of 60,000 and a decrease of 3 per cent compared to 2004 (61,200).
- There were 23,000 children who started to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2008, a decrease of 4 per cent from the previous year's figure of 24,000 and a decrease of 8 per cent from the 2003-04 figure of 25,000.
- There were 24,100 children who ceased to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2008, a decrease of 3 per cent from the previous year's figure of 25,000 and a decrease of 6 per cent from the 2003-04 figure of 25,700.
- 3,200 children looked after were adopted during the year ending 31 March 2008. This represents a 5 per cent decrease from the previous year's figure of 3,300 and a 16 per cent decrease from the 2003-04 figure of 3,800.

- There were 59,500 children looked after at 31 March 2008, 1 per cent fewer than last year's figure of 60,000 and a decrease of 3 per cent compared to 2004 (61,200).
- There were 23,000 children who started to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2008, a decrease of 4 per cent from the previous year's figure of 24,000 and a decrease of 8 per cent from the 2003-04 figure of 25,000.
- There were 24,100 children who ceased to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2008, a decrease of 3 per cent from the previous year's figure of 25,000 and a decrease of 6 per cent from the 2003-04 figure of 25,700.
- 3,200 children looked after were adopted during the year ending 31 March 2008. This represents a 5 per cent decrease from the previous year's figure of 3,300 and a 16 per cent decrease from the 2003-04 figure of 3,800.

October 3, 2008

Care is at a time of fundamental change. Social, cultural, economic and demographic pressures all highlight the need to re-examine it. Service users have developed an influential discourse which challenges it. Government is committed to reforming it. There is no agreement about the form it should take, the conceptual basis on which it should rest or how it is to be funded. Service users’ experience of care, as they report it, is at best mixed, at worst poor.

Care is at a time of fundamental change. Social, cultural, economic and demographic pressures all highlight the need to re-examine it. Service users have developed an influential discourse which challenges it. Government is committed to reforming it. There is no agreement about the form it should take, the conceptual basis on which it should rest or how it is to be funded. Service users’ experience of care, as they report it, is at best mixed, at worst poor.

This report presents data on income, poverty, and health insurance coverage in the United States based on information collected in the 2008 and earlier Annual Social and Economic Supplements (ASEC) to the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

This report presents data on income, poverty, and health insurance coverage in the United States based on information collected in the 2008 and earlier Annual Social and Economic Supplements (ASEC) to the Current Population Survey (CPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The latest National Statistics on prison population projections, released by the Ministry of Justice and produced in accordance with arrangements approved by the UK Statistics Authority. The release (generally annual) gives the projected monthly prison population in England and Wales for the next seven years. Sub-population (such as gender) estimates are presented alongside the effects of legislation, sentencing activity, and so on relevant to the prison population.

The latest National Statistics on prison population projections, released by the Ministry of Justice and produced in accordance with arrangements approved by the UK Statistics Authority. The release (generally annual) gives the projected monthly prison population in England and Wales for the next seven years. Sub-population (such as gender) estimates are presented alongside the effects of legislation, sentencing activity, and so on relevant to the prison population.

Household acceptances
- 15,680 applicants were accepted as owed a main homelessness duty during the April to June quarter, 2 per cent lower than during the same period in 2007.
- On a seasonally-adjusted basis, there were 15,750 acceptances, 2 per cent higher than the previous quarter.
- The quarterly level of acceptances has more than halved compared to the same period during 2003, the year of the most recent peak in acceptances.

Household acceptances
- 15,680 applicants were accepted as owed a main homelessness duty during the April to June quarter, 2 per cent lower than during the same period in 2007.
- On a seasonally-adjusted basis, there were 15,750 acceptances, 2 per cent higher than the previous quarter.
- The quarterly level of acceptances has more than halved compared to the same period during 2003, the year of the most recent peak in acceptances.

Most communities have education, health, mental health, family support, parenting, child care, and other services that can help support children and families. However, locating those services or even knowing which services to look for is often difficult. The Community Services Locator is designed to help service providers and families find available national, state, and local resources that can address child and family needs. Service providers can use the locator with Where to seek help A Bright Futures referral tool for providers (2006) to help build a customized directory of community-based resources. The tool is also available in Spanish.

Most communities have education, health, mental health, family support, parenting, child care, and other services that can help support children and families. However, locating those services or even knowing which services to look for is often difficult. The Community Services Locator is designed to help service providers and families find available national, state, and local resources that can address child and family needs. Service providers can use the locator with Where to seek help A Bright Futures referral tool for providers (2006) to help build a customized directory of community-based resources. The tool is also available in Spanish.

SEN support and outreach services take a variety of forms and the generic standards set out here are intended to be broadly applicable irrespective of the particular configuration employed. The standards are not in any way mandatory, but are designed to be used as suggested markers against which services provided can be evaluated. Specifically, the standards are designed to lead to improved outcomes for children and young people (CYP) with SEN and disabilities. They contribute directly to the achievement of the five Every Child Matters (ECM) outcomes for CYP.

SEN support and outreach services take a variety of forms and the generic standards set out here are intended to be broadly applicable irrespective of the particular configuration employed. The standards are not in any way mandatory, but are designed to be used as suggested markers against which services provided can be evaluated. Specifically, the standards are designed to lead to improved outcomes for children and young people (CYP) with SEN and disabilities. They contribute directly to the achievement of the five Every Child Matters (ECM) outcomes for CYP.

October 2, 2008

The document is divided into two sections. Section A includes intimate partner violence
victimization tools. Section B includes sexual violence victimization tools. A table is included at
the beginning of each section that lists each of the instruments included in the section. The actual instruments follow the table. Some instruments found in Section A are repeated in Section B if they include at least one item pertaining to sexual violence victimization.

The document is divided into two sections. Section A includes intimate partner violence
victimization tools. Section B includes sexual violence victimization tools. A table is included at
the beginning of each section that lists each of the instruments included in the section. The actual instruments follow the table. Some instruments found in Section A are repeated in Section B if they include at least one item pertaining to sexual violence victimization.

This document contains the full findings and methodology from a Kaiser study featured in Health Affairs that examines the current spending on care for the uninsured and projects additional medical spending if the population had health insurance coverage.

This document contains the full findings and methodology from a Kaiser study featured in Health Affairs that examines the current spending on care for the uninsured and projects additional medical spending if the population had health insurance coverage.

In the 1980s, researchers began to emphasize the behavioral and social aspects of oral health and the integration of biological and behavioral perspectives (i.e., social and behavioral oral health).

Over the past 40 years, the research approaches to fluoridation, dental education, and treatment of dental-facial malformations changed. Beginning in the 1970s, added interests included pain and related topics (e.g., dental fear and anxiety), epidemiology of oral health and disease, and changes in health behavior changes (e.g., compliance and adherence). In the mid-1990s, new topics not even dreamed of before became major research areas—for example, oral health-related quality of life, oral health disparities, community-based participatory research, oral health literacy, and biobehavioral approaches (including psychoneuroimmunology) to oral health and disease. Social and behavioral researchers in oral health are now poised to contribute to systems approaches in oral health research to continue to build new knowledge, enhance dental practice, and promote better oral health for individuals and populations .

In the 1980s, researchers began to emphasize the behavioral and social aspects of oral health and the integration of biological and behavioral perspectives (i.e., social and behavioral oral health).

Over the past 40 years, the research approaches to fluoridation, dental education, and treatment of dental-facial malformations changed. Beginning in the 1970s, added interests included pain and related topics (e.g., dental fear and anxiety), epidemiology of oral health and disease, and changes in health behavior changes (e.g., compliance and adherence). In the mid-1990s, new topics not even dreamed of before became major research areas—for example, oral health-related quality of life, oral health disparities, community-based participatory research, oral health literacy, and biobehavioral approaches (including psychoneuroimmunology) to oral health and disease. Social and behavioral researchers in oral health are now poised to contribute to systems approaches in oral health research to continue to build new knowledge, enhance dental practice, and promote better oral health for individuals and populations .

The Children’s Sentinel Nutrition Assessment Program (C-SNAP)—a non-partisan network of pediatricians and public health specialists who conduct research, based on a dataset of nearly 24,000 children, on the effects of US social policy on young, low-income children’s health and nutrition—has concluded that food stamps can make a crucial difference in determining a child’s health status and the course of his or her development. By reducing food insecurity, food stamps can decrease a child’s risk of:
• Hospitalization
• Poor health
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Deficits in cognitive development
• Behavioral and emotional problems

The Children’s Sentinel Nutrition Assessment Program (C-SNAP)—a non-partisan network of pediatricians and public health specialists who conduct research, based on a dataset of nearly 24,000 children, on the effects of US social policy on young, low-income children’s health and nutrition—has concluded that food stamps can make a crucial difference in determining a child’s health status and the course of his or her development. By reducing food insecurity, food stamps can decrease a child’s risk of:
• Hospitalization
• Poor health
• Iron deficiency anemia
• Deficits in cognitive development
• Behavioral and emotional problems

These proposed regulations would reduce the time for claiming pension credit, housing benefit and council tax benefit for those who have attained the qualifying age for pension credit, from 12 to 3 months, and reduce the period for which claims to housing benefit and council tax benefit for customers of working age may be backdated, from 52 weeks to 3 months.

These proposed regulations would reduce the time for claiming pension credit, housing benefit and council tax benefit for those who have attained the qualifying age for pension credit, from 12 to 3 months, and reduce the period for which claims to housing benefit and council tax benefit for customers of working age may be backdated, from 52 weeks to 3 months.

Efforts to engage public support for measures to tackle poverty must consider the media’s role in informing and reflecting public opinion. This study used interviews, analysis of media output and focus groups to produce findings on: the volume and nature of media coverage of poverty in the UK; the representation of issues covered; factors shaping the production of poverty reporting; and public responses to media coverage.

Efforts to engage public support for measures to tackle poverty must consider the media’s role in informing and reflecting public opinion. This study used interviews, analysis of media output and focus groups to produce findings on: the volume and nature of media coverage of poverty in the UK; the representation of issues covered; factors shaping the production of poverty reporting; and public responses to media coverage.

October 1, 2008

This final evaluation report assesses the extent to which the Greenbook implementation activities facilitated cross-system and within system change and practice in the child welfare agencies, dependency courts, and domestic violence service providers. In addition to these evaluation reports, a special issue of the Journal of Interpersonal Violence will present Greenbook initiative national evaluation findings for a wide research- and policy-oriented audience (Edleson & Malik, in press). Findings of the evaluation show the efforts the partners made, the challenges and conflicts they faced in carrying out their work, and—to different degrees and in different sites and systems—the changes they were able to bring about in how the systems work to identify and respond to the needs of families and children experiencing the co-occurrence of domestic violence and child maltreatment.

This final evaluation report assesses the extent to which the Greenbook implementation activities facilitated cross-system and within system change and practice in the child welfare agencies, dependency courts, and domestic violence service providers. In addition to these evaluation reports, a special issue of the Journal of Interpersonal Violence will present Greenbook initiative national evaluation findings for a wide research- and policy-oriented audience (Edleson & Malik, in press). Findings of the evaluation show the efforts the partners made, the challenges and conflicts they faced in carrying out their work, and—to different degrees and in different sites and systems—the changes they were able to bring about in how the systems work to identify and respond to the needs of families and children experiencing the co-occurrence of domestic violence and child maltreatment.

This report describes incidents of domestic violence (DV) against people of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) experience that were reported during the year 2006 to community-based anti-violence organizations in 12 regions throughout the U.S. In addition, this year's report also includes general information about LGBT DV as well as regional-specific data, LGBT langauge and terminology, the impact of homophobia and transphobia on LGBT people experiencing domestic violence, and recommendations for changes to eliminate discrimination against these communities. The author of this annual report is the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), a network of 33 community-based organizations responding to violence in all its forms affecting LGBT and HIV-affected individuals.

This report describes incidents of domestic violence (DV) against people of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) experience that were reported during the year 2006 to community-based anti-violence organizations in 12 regions throughout the U.S. In addition, this year's report also includes general information about LGBT DV as well as regional-specific data, LGBT langauge and terminology, the impact of homophobia and transphobia on LGBT people experiencing domestic violence, and recommendations for changes to eliminate discrimination against these communities. The author of this annual report is the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), a network of 33 community-based organizations responding to violence in all its forms affecting LGBT and HIV-affected individuals.

This Issue Brief provides historic data through 2007 on the number and percentage of nonelderly individuals with and without health insurance. Based on EBRI estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau’s March 2008 Current Population Survey (CPS), it reflects 2007 data. It also discusses trends in coverage for the 1994–2007 period and highlights characteristics that typically indicate whether an individual is insured.

This Issue Brief provides historic data through 2007 on the number and percentage of nonelderly individuals with and without health insurance. Based on EBRI estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau’s March 2008 Current Population Survey (CPS), it reflects 2007 data. It also discusses trends in coverage for the 1994–2007 period and highlights characteristics that typically indicate whether an individual is insured.

- Early identification of need is important in promoting and safeguarding children’s wellbeing and welfare.
- Early identification can be defined in a variety of ways.
- The use of risk factors as indicators of potential need is problematic as their impact and interaction is complex.

- Early identification of need is important in promoting and safeguarding children’s wellbeing and welfare.
- Early identification can be defined in a variety of ways.
- The use of risk factors as indicators of potential need is problematic as their impact and interaction is complex.

Increases in the cost of necessities force many families to make difficult and often hazardous choices when budgeting for household expenditures. Minority families are disproportionately impacted by these trade-offs. Data from the U.S. Consumer Expenditure survey for the period 2000-2005 show that between 2000 and 2005, as food prices increased by 13.5% overall, the share of total annual expenditures going for “utilities, fuels and public services” (which includes household energy spending) among Latino families increased by 12.1% on average, while the share of their spending going for food decreased by 15.8% on average. Similar shifts in the average proportions of expenditures occurred among Black households, with a 9.0% increase in the proportion spent on “utilities, fuels and public services,” and a 9.6% decrease in the proportion for food. Although similar shifts in average proportions of spending occurred among White households, the percent was somewhat lower, with a 3.2% increase in average proportion of spending for “utilities, fuels and public services,” and a 6.7% decrease in average spending for food.

Increases in the cost of necessities force many families to make difficult and often hazardous choices when budgeting for household expenditures. Minority families are disproportionately impacted by these trade-offs. Data from the U.S. Consumer Expenditure survey for the period 2000-2005 show that between 2000 and 2005, as food prices increased by 13.5% overall, the share of total annual expenditures going for “utilities, fuels and public services” (which includes household energy spending) among Latino families increased by 12.1% on average, while the share of their spending going for food decreased by 15.8% on average. Similar shifts in the average proportions of expenditures occurred among Black households, with a 9.0% increase in the proportion spent on “utilities, fuels and public services,” and a 9.6% decrease in the proportion for food. Although similar shifts in average proportions of spending occurred among White households, the percent was somewhat lower, with a 3.2% increase in average proportion of spending for “utilities, fuels and public services,” and a 6.7% decrease in average spending for food.

Statistical neighbour models provide one method for benchmarking progress. For each LA, these models designate a number of other LAs deemed to have similar characteristics. These designated LAs are known as statistical neighbours. Any LA may compare its performance (as measured by various indicators) against its statistical neighbours to provide an initial guide as to whether their performance is above or below the level that might be expected.

Statistical neighbour models provide one method for benchmarking progress. For each LA, these models designate a number of other LAs deemed to have similar characteristics. These designated LAs are known as statistical neighbours. Any LA may compare its performance (as measured by various indicators) against its statistical neighbours to provide an initial guide as to whether their performance is above or below the level that might be expected.

This guide is written for directors, members of leadership teams and partners in afterschool programs. Based on extensive research and field experience, it is designed to help you systematically strengthen the nutrition, physical activity and food security of students and their families by deepening your understanding of exemplary practices and providing you with the tools you‘ll need to develop action plans and assess your progress as you move toward the achievement of your goals.

This guide is written for directors, members of leadership teams and partners in afterschool programs. Based on extensive research and field experience, it is designed to help you systematically strengthen the nutrition, physical activity and food security of students and their families by deepening your understanding of exemplary practices and providing you with the tools you‘ll need to develop action plans and assess your progress as you move toward the achievement of your goals.

MT 3.121