Oxford, UK: The importance of family-based care and supportive environments for vulnerable children was highlighted by Alex Sam during a research presentation at the 7th Global Conference on Children and Youth.
The international conference took place from 20 to 22 August 2026 in Oxford, United Kingdom, bringing together experts and professionals involved in children’s welfare and development.
Alex Sam presented his research paper, “Orphan Care Versus Family Care: An Ideological Study on Children in Orphanages and Foster Care vs Families.”
His study examines the differences between children growing up in families, foster-care settings and institutional environments. It also explores how orphanhood has been understood and represented through literature.
Associated with the International Leadership Development Centre, India, Alex Sam presented the research to an international audience.
The research uses literary characters such as Oliver Twist, Jane Eyre, Huckleberry Finn and Harry Potter to explore childhood experiences outside conventional family structures.
These examples allow the study to examine themes such as belonging, emotional support, identity and the challenges associated with growing up without a traditional family environment.
The research also considers how literary and cultural narratives influence perceptions of orphanhood and alternative care. It connects these perspectives with wider discussions concerning child welfare and social policy.
During the presentation, Alex Sam stressed the importance of care systems that address children’s emotional and developmental needs in addition to their basic requirements.
He also underlined the role of evidence-based research in developing sustainable solutions for vulnerable children. Strong family support and community participation were identified as important elements in strengthening child-care systems.
Alex Sam has studied business administration and social work, with his current academic interests focused on social work, child welfare and family-based care.
The conference provided him with an international platform to discuss his research and exchange ideas with professionals working in related fields.
His participation in the Oxford event marks an important milestone in his research journey and reflects his continuing engagement with issues surrounding vulnerable children and family care.
Keywords: Alex Sam, Family-Based Care, Child Welfare, Orphan Care, Foster Care, Social Work, Orphanhood, Oxford Conference, Children and Youth, Family Support.
Photo Credit: Tanvi Kapoor