“Rising numbers of children and families are finding themselves in a desperate situation, trapped in the children’s social care system, which is increasingly turning away from early intervention and focusing on helping those that have reached breaking point. The Chancellor could have used the Autumn Statement to tackle this destructive cycle with a commitment to significant investment in children’s social care and it is deeply disappointing he didn’t seize the opportunity.
“Children are being left behind in the UK: more than one in four are living in poverty and there is an escalating mental health crisis which has left services struggling to cope with the rising demand. At the same time there are increasing numbers of children persistently absent from school, at risk of abuse, exploitation and online harm, and being taken into care when families break down under the strain.
“It’s not too late to change this. Our report released last week highlighted why we need a commitment from the very top of government to improve the lives of babies, children and young people - now and in the future. We will continue to work across the political divide to ensure children are put at the heart of policy making so we can together ensure childhoods are happier, healthier and safe from abuse, neglect and exploitation.”
The Children’s Charities Coalition: Action for Children, Barnardo’s, The Children’s Society, National Children’s Bureau and NSPCC.
Notes to Editors:
The Children's Charities coalition is currently run by Action for Children, Barnardo’s, National Children’s Bureau, NSPCC, and The Children’s Society.
Find out more at https://childrenatthetable.org.uk/