Fears are mounting that the government's reform of care proceedings may not be offering at-risk children the better deal it promised (CYP Now, 9-15 July).
Launched in April, the Public Law Outline aimed to cut delays in care proceedings and encourage councils to explore alternatives to legal action. In theory, this will significantly improve outcomes for children. Cases will not drag on for so long, legal proceedings will only be brought if in the child's best interest, and families will be given greater help to stay together.
Court services and councils are already reporting a decrease in proceedings. But there are concerns that this drop may be for financial reasons or because children's professionals are struggling to adapt, rather than because councils are finding better alternatives.
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