A survey of 105 councils by the Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) last week revealed the mounting workload facing safeguarding teams.
From referrals to the number of children subject to a child protection plan, the entire system is groaning under the weight of increased demand for services.
Between the end of 2007 and 2009, referrals rose 16.5 per cent nationally, initial contacts went up 34.6 per cent and initial assessments increased 23.4 per cent. The number of children subject to a child protection plan also increased by 32.9 per cent in those two years.
Feeling the strain
Matt Dunkley, vice president of the ADCS, says councils are feeling the strain, since the increase in demand has been sustained.
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
