This book draws on recent research to address key issues in residential child care policy and practice, offering guidance for developing best practice and improved outcomes for children and young people. Contributors examine important areas of concern in a sector that has experienced high profile scandals of abuse, poor outcomes for young people leaving residential care, and numerous government enquiries arguing for the continuing role of residential child care as a positive choice in a continuum of care services. Sections include promoting well-being and development for young people; issues of potential discrimination in residential policy and practice; responses to areas of discord in residential child care; and underpinning themes relating to residential child care, such as staff development and support. This book will provide an essential addition to the literature on residential child care for policy makers, managers and practitioners in the social services and students in the field.