Intersectional yet individual experiences: the importance of acknowledging, conceptualising and contextualising separated childhoods

This peer-reviewed paper examines the experiences of millions of children worldwide who grow up outside family care, either temporarily or permanently. The authors argue for the importance of recognising the diverse, intersectional and individual nature of these 'separated childhoods' while acknowledging the UNCRC's emphasis on children's right to family care and support for reunification. The paper calls for research that better reflects the varied global contexts in which family separation occurs and the wellbeing outcomes for affected children.

Key points

• Millions of children globally experience separation from family care for all or part of their childhood
• The UNCRC emphasises children's rights to live with family and communities, and for families to receive support
• Safe and nurturing family care is recognised as being in the best interests of the child
• A growing evidence base exists on good practice and wellbeing outcomes for separated children
• Current research needs to better reflect diverse global experiences of separated childhoods

Limitations

This appears to be a paper introduction or position piece that frames a research agenda rather than presenting empirical findings. It does not provide specific evidence on interventions, outcomes, or detailed analysis of separated childhoods, limiting its ability to inform practice or policy decisions.