Programme for high-risk children ‘very cost effective’

A HSE-funded programme for high-risk children claims to be up to four times more cost effective than private foster care and up to 10 times cheaper than private residential care.

Youth Advocates Programme (YAP) Ireland worked with 475 young people and families last year. It deals with those aged 10 to 18 who are at high risk of placement in care, secure care or custody, and operates in 11 counties.

At the launch of its 2011 annual report yesterday, the YAP said it provided intensive support for up to 15 hours a week to children and families for a period of six months.

A profile of 299 of its clients showed:

* 78% were living at home, with 40% at a high risk of entering the care system;

* 34% had a mental illness or disability;

* 32% had been arrested and 10% had one or more convictions;

* 13% were not in school.

An evaluation by the YAP of 283 young people who took part in its programme found:

* 77% showed an improvement in the relationship with their mothers;

* 76% of families showed an improvement in their parenting skills;

* 79% improved their attendance at school;

* 82% showed an improvement in risky behaviour.

The group said a place in its programme cost on average between €392 and €431 per week, compared to €1,538 per week in private foster care and €4,000 per week in private residential care.

Frances Fitzgerald, the children’s minister, said: “The YAP model has proved to be a unique way of providing highly cost-effective intensive, focused support to children, young people and families with more complex needs.”