The need for scrutinising and implementing childcare rights in the SAARC is imperative. It has become quite apparent in recent years, that for children living in non-family environments, this may indeed be a preferred care option as laws exist that protect their rights and secure their living situations. However, the institutions are overcrowded and a large number or children await the services. Within South Asia, only a few countries have been able to put in place new laws and guidelines that protect the placement of children in these institutions. However, the implementation of new laws and guidelines does not guarantee a better outcome. What remains to be conducted are sound studies examining the adjustment of children in these homes and the implementation of preventive measures with respect to the violations of children's rights. It is also imperative that the standards of care for caregivers be explored conscientiously to help in the delivery of services to insitutionalised children. Collaborative efforts between different agencies, policy makers and those in charge of such institutions can only ensure that the rights of children are protected and their care is maximised in ever way. This article focuses on one aspect of raising standards and building child protection systems by exploring the existence of best care practices, any existing evidence of replication of such care practices, the ability to monitor and standardise care practices in a facility and the provision of state accountability during these steps. A survey of the research literature and over ten years of experience in the field has informed this article. The process included focus groups discussions and extensive review of related material. The article concludes by identifying certain changes that when implemented in these homes will raise the standards of care.
Child Care Standards, Child Protection Systems, South Asia Child Protection
