Webinar Reflection: Advancing Quality Alternative Care with Prof Jim Anglin

Watch Webinar in YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kDUBlhNCQo

The National Association of Child Care Workers (NACCW) hosted an insightful webinar titled “Advancing the Appropriate and Quality Alternative Care Options for Children and Youth” featuring distinguished presenter Prof Jim Anglin.

In this compelling session, Prof Anglin brought together practitioners, policymakers, and care workers to explore critical dimensions of quality alternative care — a core concern for all who work to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and youth. Drawing on his extensive experience in child and youth care research and practice, Prof Anglin offered a thoughtful overview of what high-quality alternative care truly means, why it matters, and how we can actively move toward better systems of care that respect the rights and developmental needs of children.

Key Themes from the Presentation

1. Defining Quality in Alternative CareProf Anglin emphasised that quality alternative care goes beyond simply placing children in safe environments. It requires intentional frameworks that support stability, nurturing relationships, developmental stimulation, and opportunities for children to thrive emotionally and socially.

2. Evidence-Based Policy and PracticeA major focus of the webinar was on bridging research and real-world care practices. Prof Anglin highlighted how evidence-based insights should inform policy decisions, programme design, and frontline care — ensuring that decisions are grounded in what works for children and young people.

3. Strengthening the WorkforceQuality care begins with a supported and skilled workforce. The presentation underscored the importance of ongoing training, reflective practice, and building professional networks that empower care workers to respond to diverse needs with compassion and competence.

4. Systems Thinking and Holistic SupportProf Anglin also discussed the broader systems that influence alternative care — including family support services, community partnerships, and social protection mechanisms — and encouraged a holistic approach that sees children within the context of their families and communities.

What This Means for the NACCW Community

For NACCW members, this webinar served as a timely call to action: to continue advocating for quality, child-centred care, and to apply evolving knowledge to everyday practice. As the sector moves forward, Prof Anglin’s insights remind us that excellence in care is not static — it grows through research, reflection, and shared learning.

This webinar is now part of our growing collection of professional learning content, and we encourage all members to reflect on these themes as part of their practice and organisational development.