The report, Calling for Clarity, examined the short-break criteria of 60 councils and found that 28 per cent are likely to be using banding or other forms of criteria illegally to limit access to services.
A further 10 per cent were placing blanket exclusions unlawfully on groups of children with certain disabilities and 10 per cent were capping the hours available. A further eight per cent did not make their eligibility criteria readily available to the public. One in 10 had no guidance in place.
EDCM's research was undertaken following a judicial review in March last year against the London Borough of Islington. Mrs Justice Black ruled that Islington's criteria did not meet legal requirements.
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
