Children’s social care is under significant strain with more families being investigated, higher numbers of children in care and spiralling costs as money is increasingly spent on crisis intervention, an independent report has found.
Underlying this are significant and concerning inequalities, with deprivation, ethnicity and prior care experience all associated with increased likelihood of state intervention.
‘The Case for Change’, the first report from the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care, found that when the state steps in, too often the focus is on assessment and investigation – not support.
The review, which says children’s social care needs major reform and investment, will produce a final report with recommendations for change early in 2022.
Cllr Teresa Heritage, Vice Chairman of the LGA’s Children and Young People Board, said: “We support the ambition of the independent review of children’s social care to make sure children, including those in care, grow up in loving, stable and safe environments.
“Councils have been raising the issues within ‘The Case for Change’ for some years, including the need for government departments to work better together, reforms to the placements market, and more investment in the services that change children’s lives.
“There are many brilliant people working to improve the lives of children and their families, from social workers and foster carers to teachers, nurses and police officers.
“Their dedication, in the face of enormous challenges, should be commended and they must be listened to alongside those with lived experience as we seek solutions.”