Policy and practice with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Queer (LGBTQ+) care-experienced young people - a National Survey of Local Authorities in England

There is scant research on the experiences and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer/questioning young people growing up in care in the UK. This article reports on a national survey of local authorities (LAs) in England, which aimed to explore what data LAs collect relating to sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as exploring existing LA policies and practices in relation to LGBTQþ young people growing up in out-of-home care. The survey asked about policy, recording, support and training. Respondents were senior managers in LAs with responsibility for looked after children. The survey response rate was 78 per cent (n¼118). The survey found a lack of specific policy relating to this population and little central recording of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data, although most LAs suggested information would be recorded in individual case records. LAs described a variety of ways in which they supported LGBTQþ young people in practice at both individual and organisational levels but highlighted a lack of staff knowledge and confidence. Training provision was more likely to be provided for social workers than for foster carers or residential staff. Implications for practice are discussed.