Improving children’s mental health
New research sets out the challenges of delivering better outcomes for children and young people – and how councils can mitigate these by acting early to resolve issues before they escalate.
children
‘Invest in children’
The next government needs to invest in children’s services so councils can fulfil the ambitions of the Children’s Act, the LGA has said.
Parents under pressure
Child-to-parent violence can occur in any family anywhere, but parents are often too ashamed to seek help.
Hardship behind demand for services
A rise in family conflict and hardship is behind the heightened pressure on child protection services, according to a new LGA survey of councillors responsible for children’s social care.
Rise in child abuse based on faith or belief
The number of children in England identified by councils as having been abused for reasons based on faith or belief has risen by a third in the past three years, according to LGA analysis.
Young missing out on careers advice
Thousands of young people are missing out on vital careers support, the LGA has warned.
Supporting care leavers
Working with the Care Leaver Covenant is improving support for looked-after young people transitioning to adulthood.
Getting the best for every child in care
Being a lead member for children’s services is one of the biggest responsibilities and honours in local government. The lives of the most vulnerable children really are in our hands and we have the opportunity to make decisions that can, literally, transform lives.
SEND services ‘in crisis’
The Local Government Ombudsman has warned of a “crisis” in provision for children with special education needs and disabilities, with his office upholding nearly nine out of every 10 complaints about these services.