CYP Now - Letters: The profit motive

Further to comments by Ian Dixon, chair of Kent's independent fostering providers, that the unit cost of fostering means there is "not a lot of profit" for the independent sector (Children Now, 1-7 June), I'm wondering why we should be apologetic about profit?

The dilemma society faces is whether it is acceptable to make profit from services for vulnerable children. But the Government's looked-after children budget is 4bn and surely it would be irresponsible to spend that money unwisely.

If the equation is as simplistic as having on one side an altruistic service that costs 1,500, and on the other a for-profit service that costs 1,000 for the same quality or better, surely any wise purchaser will opt for the cheaper.

Let's wave the banner for a profit motive. When providers must maintain a competitive edge to maintain profit, a measurably superior service must be on offer. Good business means children, tax payers and society all benefit.

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