71 per cent of looked-after children taken into care as a result of abuse or neglect (62 per cent in England)
9 per cent of looked-after children live in children's homes or hostels (13 per cent in England)
8 per cent of looked-after children are in three or more placements a year (15 per cent in England)
Hertfordshire Council said: "Hertfordshire has succeeded in keeping down the number of children in care to well below the national average. The council is now reorganising its services in a bid to further improve its performance. A key aim is to sustain and develop programmes with the voluntary sector - such as independent foster agencies - to focus on the development of young children and preventing disaffection among older children."
Source: Department of Health.
