The figures, published by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) reveal there were just 14 more cases between October and December 2009 than the previous quarter.
But there were still 378 more care applications in the last three months than the same period the year before.
Care demand in the nine months to December 2009 is 46.1 per cent higher than the same period in 2008 and 37.6 per cent higher than the same period in 2007.
Anthony Douglas, Cafcass' chief executive, said: "It is now universally acknowledged that the record increases in care demand have placed massive pressure on all agencies working in the child protection system.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, 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
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
