As a front line social worker, one of Roxy’s drivers for support was noticing a need for clarity in
placements available.
‘Finding homes for looked after children’ was published as research briefing in
July 2024 by David Foster.
The document provides an overview of challenges faced by local
authorities in finding suitable placements for looked-after children in England. Key points include;
- Increased Demand: The number of looked-after children increased by 30% from 2010 to
2023, with more children presenting complex needs. - Placement Shortages: There are insufficient placements, especially for specialised care, with
children often placed far from home. - Recruitment Issues: Difficulty in recruiting and retaining foster carers contributes to the
shortage. - Policy Responses: Government strategies aim to improve placement availability, such as
fostering recruitment programs and regional care cooperatives. - Financial Oversight: Proposals include better regulation and financial oversight of providers
to combat profiteering.
These issues highlight the need for a more stable and effective care system for vulnerable children
which bPlaced strives to support.
Full details on the briefing can be found here
https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CBP-10045/CBP-10045.pdf