
[asset_library_tag 1784,Download the PDF of this article]
It is becoming increasingly difficult to help children in need. Schools and early years settings are finding it harder than ever to navigate their way around systems and to receive appropriate responses from services, including those that have statutory responsibilities to intervene to protect children. While the overall number of children in need has remained relatively stable over the past seven years, the number of children on child protection plans has increased by 23 per cent since 2010. The number of referrals has also increased by 7 per cent in the same period – by an extra 40,000 cases to 646,000 in 2017. A referral is made to children’s social care every 49 seconds, according to the latest DfE statistics for children aged up to 18. Domestic violence is a factor identified in half of all cases for children in need.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here