“Hope, Healing, and Systemic Change in Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Residential Care for Vulnerable Children and Youth”
When it comes to residential care for children and young people, creating environments that nurture safety, growth, and resilience is at the forefront of international discussions. This goal has been powerfully underscored in a chapter co-authored by Infinity Community Solutions Ltd. (ICS) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shelley Wall and Dr Patricia McNamara, Senior Fellow (Hon) Department of Social Work, University of Melbourne for an Oxford University Press published, internationally acclaimed book on residential care for children and youth.
Focusing on the Australian Residential Care sector, the Chapter provides an analysis of the sector’s evolving landscape, uncovering both challenges and opportunities. It highlights critical themes such as the need for trauma-informed care, the value of culturally responsive practices, staff retention and associated training and qualifications, along with family engagement and overall wellbeing of the children and young people in care.

“Being part of developing this Chapter allowed me to reflect on the many ways residential care can positively impact young lives. It’s a space
where the right approaches can create a true sense of belonging and healing.” said Shelley Wall in a recent interview. She had just returned from the 2024 International Residential Care Conference (ACORES) in Spain, where contributors to the book and other leading professionals in therapeutic residential care (TRC) from around the globe gathered to share insights and address critical issues in the sector.
The Chapter calls for systemic changes to address the challenges within the Residential Care sector. It emphasises the need to connect policy and practice to make a real difference to outcomes for children, young people and families. Importantly, it also presents residential care as a place of hope—a setting where vulnerable children and young people can find healing and support.
When asked what she felt was the central message of the chapter, Shelley highlighted, “The chapter’s focus on hope and healing is one I deeply resonate with. It’s a reminder that with the right systems and support, we can create positive futures for children, young people, and families.”
At ICS, we are proud of Shelley’s contribution to this global discussion. Aligning with our key values, this chapter is a call to action—encouraging everyone involved in residential care to collaborate and push for the changes needed to improve outcomes for life.
In her co-writing the chapter with Patricia, Shelley says “Collaborating on this Chapter was a privilege. It underscores the importance of collective efforts in driving improvements in residential care—not just in Australia but globally.”
Patricia adds “Too often therapeutic residential care is seen as the last resort for vulnerable young people who are struggling to have their complex needs met in the out of home care system. Research evidence and our own practice experience convinces us that trauma-informed therapeutic residential care can make a significant contribution to the healing of trauma and enhance long-term wellbeing outcomes. These impacts are often true for families as well as the young person in care”.

This Chapter highlights the impact of well-informed practice and policy in residential care. It serves as a call for continued collaboration among practitioners, policymakers, and advocates to drive meaningful change. Through further evidenced research and collaborative effort on a national level, we can shape a system that delivers lasting positive outcomes for children, young people and families.
Infinity Community Solutions Ltd is a boutique, secular social purpose organisation dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals. Through professional, evidence-based services, we empower people to reach their full potential and lead rich, fulfilling lives. Specialising in early intervention, out-of-home care, and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participation, we are committed to delivering impactful, person-centred support that transforms lives and strengthens communities.