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Number of children in care at highest level on record

3 mins read Social Care
The number of children in the care system in England is at the highest level on record, Department for Education figures show.
More children are entering the care system than in previous years, DfE figures show. Picture: Adobe Stock/Fizkes
More children are entering the care system than in previous years, DfE figures show. Picture: Adobe Stock/Fizkes

As of 31 March this year, there were 82,170 children in care in England, according to data published today (17 November).

The figure is higher than in any year since current reporting began in 1994, with numbers steadily increasing year-on-year since 2008.

The DfE says the figures are “up two per cent on last year and continuing the rise seen in recent years”.

It also notes that this year, both the numbers of children entering the care system and ceasing to be cared for are higher than last year.

However, the report states that “last year's figures were likely impacted by the pandemic”.

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