New video on NRP 76: Cantonal differences in funding child protection

The lack of alignment of funding in child and adult protection leads to different implementation practice at cantonal level and thus to inconsistent child protection.

The work of child and adult protection authorities is currently more centred on child welfare than ever before. The state should provide equal protection for the youngest members of society throughout the country. However, there is no uniform rule regarding funding, as the research project by Ecoplan and the University of Zurich found. This lack of uniformity leads to a degree of inconsistency in child protection and has an impact on its implementation.

The various funding arrangements provide different incentives in the cantons and affect the practice of child protection. They can have an impact on decisions regarding placements and where a child will be placed in care.

The introduction of child and adult protection legislation in 2013 was an important step towards harmonisation. As a result of this, communal structures could be transferred into cantonal or regional regulations. Further harmonisation is also necessary in the area of child protection funding.

To provide some insights into the findings of the NRP 76 research projects, NRP 76 has created a number of videos, including this one on the project by Michael Marti, Thomas Widmer and their team. The findings of NRP 76 are presented in three thematic volumes – the project on the cantonal differences in funding child protection can be found in Volume 2 “Diffuse Verantwortlichkeiten” [Diffuse responsibilities]. The books are available in print and as e-books (open access).