New Ofsted data shows ‘vulnerable’ children in care are being “regularly put at risk” in a “dysfunctional system” which has seen hundreds placed in unregistered homes for months.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) branded it “unacceptable” that some 800 children had been placed in such homes for an average of six months each.
Lynn Perry, Barnardo’s CEO says, “No child should be made to live in an unsuitable environment, including illegal, unregistered homes. These situations can be scary, force children to move far away from their home base and community, and cut children off from friends and family, resulting in them feeling lonely and isolated.
“The number of children in the care system remains significantly higher than a decade ago and while most are living with foster families, many local authorities are struggling to find suitable homes for children who need specialist support. The number one priority must be finding the right place for children to live where their needs are met, they get crucial love and support, they are kept safe, and they have the right help to recover from their past experiences.
“Recent government announcements about investing in this area are a step in the right direction and have the potential to increase the number of children’s home places. The government fostering reforms must also address the significant shortage of available carers. Together, it is important these reforms deliver homes in the right places, making sure support for children is available where it is most needed.”