A systematic review protocol to explore the prevalence and impacts of neurodevelopmental disorders in the care experienced by looked after population

Abstract Background: Looked after children (LAC) placed in either a foster care, kinship, residential or adoption care settings continue to develop debilitating disorders that significantly impact their future overall wellbeing. Prevalence of these disorders are often depicted under broad categories such as mental, behavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Limited in research, is the prevalence of specific disorders that fall under these broad categories.NDDs such as autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which cannot be medically tested for and fall under an umbrella group in the current, expert field of genetics and neuropsychiatry will be explored. Unsupported, these disorders can lead to suboptimal health and social outcomes for both the child and family. In the general population, prevalence of these NDDs and impacts on health and social wellbeing are relatively well documented but for minority groups such as LAC; research is extremely limited. This review will aim to estimate the prevalence of NDDs in LAC and compare to those children who are not looked after. Additionally, it will identify if NDDs have any impact on the health and social wellbeing of this vulnerable group.Methods: This review will report in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. PubMed, ASSIA, IBSS, Web of Science, PsychINFO, Scopus, Psych articles, Social Care Online, secondary, grey literature and government publications will be searched to identify any eligible studies. No restrictions will be placed on age or design of publication. Eligible studies must include participants, 25 years of age or under and have confirmed diagnoses using standardised international diagnostic codes or tools. Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals using the random-effects model will be utilised to analyse the data. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools will be utilised to assess quality and bias.Discussion: Attaining an estimated prevalence of these NDDs in the LAC group and identifying any impacts on health and social wellbeing will contribute to the existing but limited LAC literature. From a preventative perspective, the results will inform key stakeholders in health, educational and social sectors with important information to aid in safeguarding and meeting the unique needs of these vulnerable children.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO Registration number: CRD4201913103