In this debate article, we provide our thoughts and reflections on the issues and uses of Therapeutic Residential Care (TRC) in child welfare systems in the US and England. We highlight the issues associated with the lack of clarity of how TRC is defined and when and how it is used. The premise for the article is that some of our most vulnerable young people are living in residential homes without there being a sufficient evidence base to understand whether their needs are being adequately met, or the best outcomes are being achieved. We set out some suggested elements to try to progress debates and decisions that will ultimately improve the services and placements that are provided.
© 2020 Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.