Daily roundup: School place shortages, public sector pay and children's play

Shortages in primary and secondary school places across London will increase to around 90,000 by 2016, a study by London Councils has found. The organisation, which represents authorities in the capital, calculates the cost of meeting demand will reach £2.3bn in four years time. Steve Reed, London Councils’ lead member for children and young people, said long-term government investment in schools is required.

A report by think tank Policy Exchange has called for a rebalancing of the pay and pensions of public sector workers so they are in line with the private sector. The report, which has already been criticised by teaching union NASUWT, states the move would save the UK £6.3bn each year in public spending. According to the report's authors, the money could be better spent on tackling local unemployment or supporting existing services.

Children are being denied the opportunity to play outdoors because of misinterpretations of legislation, it has been claimed. A joint statement issued by the Health and Safety Executive and the Play Safety Forum said children should be able to take part in activities that allow them to learn about risk. The statement encourages play providers to weigh up the risks and benefits of an activity rather than seeking to eliminate risk entirely.

The Scout Association has announced that chief executive Derek Twine is to retire from his role after 16 years at the helm of the organisation. A search for his successor has begun, with a handover expected in 2013. Scout Association chairman Sir Alan Craft said Twine’s efforts have played a significant part in establishing the strong position the movement is in today.

Guidance to help doctors protect children from abuse and neglect has come into effect. The General Medical Council (GMC) guidance - issued to more than 230,000 doctors – has been designed to give doctors the confidence to act on concerns about children. Protecting Children And Young People: The Responsibilities Of All Doctors, was produced following a two-year working group, chaired by senior family judge Lord Justice Thorpe, which heard evidence from a range of child protection experts.

Fostering services in Sandwell are improving and have been deemed “adequate” in an Ofsted inspection report. The last report by the watchdog in May 2010 found the service was inadequate but inspectors found that the fostering service has taken action to address the shortfalls. Ofsted made five recommendations on fostering, including better record keeping and ensuring all children know their rights. The council has pledged to make improvements.