The Use of Online Photovoice to Explore the Experiences of Mothers who have been Subject to Recurrent Care Proceedings

Abstract

Research has been carried out to explore the prevalence and pattern of repeated care proceedings in England, whereby birthparents return to the family court, resulting in multiple children being removed from their care (Broadhurst et al., 2017; Alrouh et al., 2022). However, there has been limited research exploring birthmothers’ experiences of repeated care proceedings. Several researchers have commented on the value of utilising visual research methods when exploring birthparents’ lived experiences. It was noted that these creative methods could offer a non-threatening approach, allowing participants to share experiences of a sensitive nature (Collings et al., 2021; Marsh et al., 2016). The current study presented a systematic literature review, exploring researchers’ experiences of using online photovoice, before utilising this participatory action approach, to explore birthparents’ experiences of repeated care proceedings. Three participants engaged in online photovoice group sessions, sharing photographs of their experiences of repeated care proceedings, before exploring these using the ‘SHOWeD’ approach (Wang, 1999). These group sessions were then analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2019). Four main themes were identified, including: Powerlessness, the importance of professional relationships, the effects of repeated care proceedings, and resilience and hope after care proceedings. As part of the online photovoice group, the participants chose to share their stories and photographs with their identified audience, social workers, during a webinar, and the feedback from attendees has been included. The findings from this study were then discussed with reference to existing literature, before highlighting possible implications for policymakers, professionals working within Child Protection Services, and clinical psychologists.