The number of children looked after (CLA) by local authorities in England remained stable at 83,630 as of March 31, 2024, showing a slight decrease of less than 0.5% compared to the previous year. This equates to a consistent rate of 70 children per 10,000 in the population.
While the number of children starting care (33,050) also saw no significant change, the number leaving care rose by 6% to 33,620. Adoption figures held steady, with 2,980 children adopted over the period. Cathy Ashley, Family Rights Group’s Chief Executive said:
“Today’s data release on looked-after children shows a care system which remains in crisis. An extremely high number of children continue to be looked after by the state. Almost half are living out of area, separated from their family, friends and support networks.
While the proportion of children in kinship foster care with relatives and friends has continued to rise steadily, now at 16% of all children in the care system. This remains well below other countries like New Zealand.
We know from research and our work with local authorities that too often the support that family and friends can offer is not consistently explored before children are removed from home. More children in the care system could be living safely in their families with the right support. This would provide better outcomes for children and reduce pressures and costs in the care system.
Children and parents need support when challenges are emerging. Family and friends should be given the opportunity to find solutions with a right to a family group conference safely averting children going into care. Kinship care needs to be defined in law alongside the practical, emotional and financial support kinship families need. And no child in care or care leaver should be left isolated and alone, with the offer of Lifelong Links to build those loving relationships we all need.
This data should be taken as a warning that the pace of reforms to date is not quick enough. We have the solutions to transform the child welfare system and support more children to remain safely in their family. With the will and the investment we can make it happen.”
