Daily roundup 17 March: Taxis, child poverty and the internet

A total of 171 taxi drivers in Rotherham have had their licences suspended until they complete training sessions on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, it has emerged. The Sheffield Star reports that, in addition to the licence suspensions, dozens of taxi drivers have had their licences revoked after failing new “fit and proper person” tests.


The Children's Society has criticised yesterday's budget as "deeply disappointing". Matthew Reed, chief executive of the charity said that without immediate action, hundreds of thousands more children will enter severe poverty.


More than a quarter of young people would turn to the internet first if they were upset or had a problem, a survey has found. The Telegraph reports that 28 per cent of young people would turn to the internet before a friend or relative.


A youth and community association has agreed to take over a children's centre and youth centre from Bradford Council. The Telegraph and Argus reports that Ilkley Youth and Community Association plans to turn the premises into a community hub.


Glasgow City Council has cut its bill for secure care by almost half over the past five years, and halved the number of young people entering care thanks to its "multi-agency working" and "development of community-based alternatives," the council says. The Evening Times reports that over the past seven years there has been a reduction in the average stay in care from 21 weeks to 10 weeks.