In October 2024, Robert Glover OBE, Care for Children's Founder and Executive Director, spoke at an international conference in Athens, Greece, hosted by Ark of the World on behalf of the Greek government. There were presentations from experts from all backgrounds, covering child protection policies, de-institutionalisation, and more. It was an incredible opportunity to highlight the need for family-based care as a vital alternative to institutional care for vulnerable children. Robert emphasized the critical role governments must play in leading reform efforts to ensure that every child can grow up in the safety and love of a family.

In his speech, Robert stressed, "When we are investing into the children, we are investing into the future of a nation." He highlighted how governments must take the lead in reforming child welfare systems, encouraging family placement as a primary solution. He pointed out that institutions, while often necessary in certain circumstances, cannot replace the love, stability, and developmental benefits that come from growing up in a family environment.

A key factor for the success of a family placement programme is a cohesive understanding of its necessity. Robert called for cooperation between different care models. "Family placement and residential care need to join hands as a complementary and holistic approach to care for vulnerable children" he noted, reflecting on the direction in which childcare systems must evolve.

Robert's participation in the conference helped shine a light on the pressing need for systemic change in child welfare policies worldwide. His message emphasized the role of government leadership in creating sustainable, long-term solutions that provide every child with the opportunity to grow up in a family, fostering better futures for both the children and the societies in which they live. We hope that this event will inspire new partnerships and motivate systemic change across the region.