Rights and options of children who cannot live with their family.

One of the conclusions drawn by researchers working on the NRP 76 project "Coercive decisions in Switzerland through the lens of international standards: foster care placements" is that it is appropriate to increase the involvement of children and their families by developing suitable information and communication resources. To implement this recommendation, they have authored and published their own guide, entitled "Me and My Family". They were aided in their work by contributions from specialists throughout Switzerland as well as from a group of children, who provided editorial input. The guide is available in German, French, Italian and English. It gives children aged 10 to 15 information about their rights and answers questions such as "When should I seek help?" and "How can I take part in the alternative care decision-making process?"

The research team has also drawn up a guide for professionals working for and with children. It supports professionals who work with children and families on a daily basis by providing practical guidance on implementing international standards. As well as referencing international standards, the 13-page brochure also provides information on promising practices in Switzerland.