A report published today by the Commission on Young Lives has found that the children’s social care system in England, which is supposed to protect vulnerable teenagers, is not fit for purpose.
And it says the system frequently puts some children in greater danger, “handing some children over” to criminal gangs.
In response, Michelle Lee-Izu, Barnardo’s interim co-chief executive, said: “Barnardo’s has long warned about the growing threat of child criminal exploitation, so although this report from the Commission on Young Lives is alarming it is sadly not surprising. Agencies are still too often failing to identify victims, even when there are clear signs of harm.
“We know children who have already had a tough start in life are particularly vulnerable, including those in foster care and residential care, and this report is right to say that there needs to be widespread changes to help keep children safe.”