To become a looked-after child, where a local authority becomes your corporate parent, is no simple process - you must meet strict entry criteria. And being looked after is not cheap.
In recent weeks several councils have reported major social services budget deficits, and a key reason, they claim, is the increasing cost of looked-after young people.
David Hawker, director of children's services in Brighton and co-chair of the Association of Directors of Education and Children's Services, reveals his department has a projected over-spend of 1.5m this year. "This is repeated around the country," he claims, "It's a very big headache that councils are having to support."
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
