Funding arrangements for the positions, introduced in 2005, have been up in the air since July after attempts to fund them collectively through councils failed.
The 25 posts were initially funded by the government and the YJB but the Department for Children, Schools and Families shifted responsibility to local authorities from April 2009.
Drew told delegates at the YJB annual convention in Southport that ongoing failure to find a funding solution has created a "disastrous position". He is calling for fresh talks to settle the issue.
"We believe it is essential there are social workers in all of our custodial establishments in terms of safeguarding and meeting the needs of children," he said.
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
