The Role of Social Work in Addressing the Needs of Children in Alternative Care in Nigeria: Evidence from Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State

Abstract Background: The breakdown of family structures due to poverty, parental death, single parenthood, migration, family conflict, and caregiver absence has increased the number of children living outside the care of their biological parents. While alternative care can provide protection and access to basic services, children in such arrangements may experience inadequate supervision, family separation, neglect, and other threats to wellbeing. This study examined the challenges faced by children in alternative care and the role of social workers in promoting their welfare in Jalingo Local Government Area, Taraba State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. Data were collected from 200 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and Pearson’s chi-square test at the 0.05 level of significance. Rational Choice Theory provided the theoretical framework. Results: Poverty, parental inability to provide adequate care, single parenthood, and absence of reliable caregivers were commonly identified as factors associated with placement in alternative care. Major challenges reported included lack of parental love and care, restricted access to education, impaired physical and cognitive development, malnutrition, and inadequate moral guidance. A statistically significant association was found between income level and the perceived category of persons who place children in alternative care, χ² (6, N = 200) = 16.777, p = .010. No significant association was found between area of residence and perceived placement category, χ² (3, N = 200) = 6.157, p = .104, or between age and perceived placement category, χ² (3, N = 200) = 4.010, p = .260. Conclusion: Children in poorly supervised alternative-care arrangements may face significant emotional, developmental, educational, and protection-related challenges. Social workers should be involved in family assessment, caregiver education, case management, follow-up, child-protection monitoring, and policy advocacy. Government agencies should strengthen the registration, regulation, and supervision of alternative-care facilities, while promoting safe family-based and community-based care in line with the best interests of the child.