The proportion and utilisation of formal kinship and network care in Norway and Denmark: a comparative study

Abstract

In the past decades, the implementation of regulations and legislation, which encourage the use of formal kinship and network care, has taken place in many countries. Yet, the proportion seems to vary greatly, also between countries often regarded as similar. Denmark and Norway are examples of this. In 2021, 33% of children in care lived in kinship and network care compared to 13% in Denmark. The aim of this paper is to get a better understanding of these differences. For this paper, we have delved into the historical development of CWS in both countries, with particular attention to the last 20 years. The factors suggested as possible reasons for differences in the proportion and utilisation of kinship and network care in Denmark and Norway, relate mainly to three overlapping levels: policy and values, organisational structures and case management. Possible implications and limitations are discussed.