Responsible decisions are continually being made in social work. In particular the decision to place a child in a foster home can have far-reaching consequences for their welfare and it is vital that we make the best possible choice on their behalf. Although in the 1960s thousands of children were boarded out every year no systematic attempt had yet been made to summarize this experience as a guide for practice. Thus important decisions lacked the help which past experience could provide.

Originally published in 1966, this study assembled the past experience of foster care in one area, analysed it and presented it in such a way that predictions could be made of the outcome of a potential placement. At the time it offered an important contribution to the task of providing the best possible care for children separated from their own families. Today it can be read in its historical context.