CHILD PATRONAGE AS A FORM OF FAMILY UPBRINGING

Abstract

The article defines the essence of foster care for children as a modern alternative form of family upbringing, which has become an important tool for Ukraine to implement reforms aimed at deinstitutionalization and protection of children's rights. The author highlights the role of foster caregivers in shaping the emotional and social well-being of children in difficult life circumstances.

The benefits of foster care, including creating a safe environment for children, supporting socialization and preserving family relationships, are analyzed. The key problems associated with the introduction of foster care were also highlighted, including: insufficient number of trained foster caregivers; low financial support; low public awareness; lack of sufficient law enforcement practice and centers for the assessment and training of foster caregivers.

Special attention is paid to the international experience of countries with a high level of foster care and significant regulatory practice of its regulation, in particular, on the examples of Great Britain, France and Sweden. The author outlines the prospects for integrating the Ukrainian foster care system into European standards.

The author suggests ways to improve the foster care system in Ukraine by popularizing this form of care, improving the regulatory framework, enhancing the qualifications of caregivers, and using best practices from international experience to increase the number of foster families and solve other problems of child foster care. Examples of relevant legislative and public initiatives are provided.

The author emphasizes the importance of foster care in times of war and socio-economic crisis, when the need for alternative forms of upbringing becomes critical. The article also points out the importance of further scientific developments and joint work of the state, public organizations and society in general to ensure the quality functioning of child patronage.