The mental health needs of very young children in ‘Out Of Home Care’: a profile from the gumnut clinic in Western Sydney

Children and young people in out of home care have significant mental health needs. However, most research about child mental health has neglected the needs of very young children even though they represent a vulnerable population at high risk of social, emotional and developmental problems. This research project aimed to evaluate the extent and severity of behavioural problems and mental health needs of children aged 0 to 5 years living in Out of Home Care and referred to a public service agency.