The latest Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) statistics on the outcomes for looked-after children tell a familiar story.
The figures show little or no improve- ment in their chances of gaining a good job, avoiding prison and achieving at school compared with those not in care. Looked-after children are still twice as likely to have a caution or conviction, five per cent have a drug problem and just two thirds remain in full-time education after 16, compared with four fifths of all children.
Shockingly, the figures, which are only for England, also suggest the situation may be getting worse. While those in care gaining at least five A* to C grade GCSEs rose by two per cent between 2005 and 2007, this compares with a five per cent rise for all children during the same period (CYP Now, 30 April-6 May).
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