Political parties called on to back loan scheme for childcare
A think tank is urging the three main political parties to support its plans to introduce government loans of up to £10,000 to help parents cover the cost of childcare.
A think tank is urging the three main political parties to support its plans to introduce government loans of up to £10,000 to help parents cover the cost of childcare.
Social investment is set to become a growing source of finance for public projects. Ravi Chandiramani examines how it works, the principal challenges and how the children's sector could reap the benefits
If asked to picture the sort of person who would be found in the upper echelons of a Christian charity, the agnostic son of a Muslim mother and Jewish father might not be the first person that comes to mind.
The government has set its sights on targeting the 120,000 most "troubled" families - those with neither parent in work, poor housing, a low income, no qualifications, mental health problems, a longstanding illness, disability or infirmity.
Positive for Youth In December 2011 the government released its Positive for Youth statement, setting out all its policies for young people aged 13 to 19 for the first time.
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Bang for the buck Social investment is on the rise – but is the children's sector ready to reap the benefits?
Troubled families: true costs examined Intensive help for 120,000 'troubled families' will carry a heavy price tag
Play sector picks itself off the ground Hit by severe cuts, play organisations are finding ways to sustain free services
Youth work activity resource packs. Topics range from financial literacy to sexual health.
The shape of youth services to come As local authorities rein in expenditure, five councils explain their thinking as they strive to make savings to youth services
Back to Education Government reforms will open up alternative education to a greater number of providers. But will more choice lead to better performance? Tom de Castella reports.
Careers: Speech and language therapist Speech and language problems can hold children back. Andy Hillier looks at how therapists make a difference.
Skills for the Job: Writing funding applications What steps should you take to ensure that your funding application stands out from the crowd? Andy Hillier finds out.
Professional boundaries The success of social work often relies on the strength of the relationship between the professional and the client. But there's a danger that workers can become too close and overstep the boundaries. Maria Ahmed reports.
Safeguarding: Advocacy programme gives children chance to be heard Children do not usually attend child protection conferences despite the potential impact on their lives. Jo Stephenson discovers how a child protection advocacy service is helping them to have a say.
In September, I was given the rare opportunity to visit parliament and interview MPs and peers