According to the information released, there was a 10.8% increase in the number of referrals to children's social care in 2013-14 with 657,800 referrals compared to the previous year when there were just 593,500 referrals. Almost a quarter of those referrals came from the police according to data collected on the source of the referrals - the first collection of its kind.

Children in need

The number of children in need also showed an increase, with a 5% rise from 378,600 on 31st March 2013 to 397,600 on 31st March 2014, although there are fluctuations in the longer-term time series. The most common primary need recorded among children was the need for care due to abuse or neglect at 47.2% and the next highest showed a similar percentage to the previous year at 18.6% for family dysfunction.

Similarly, there was also an increase in section-47 inquiries carried out, with 2013-14 showing an increase of 12.1% on the previous year from 127,100 to 142,500. There was also a further increase in children subject to the child protection plan from 43,100 on 31st March 2013 to 48,300 on 31st March 2014, an increase of 23.5% since March 2010.

If you and your family need help regarding social services Milner Elledge can help. We have years experience dealing with these types of children's matters in Romford & Dagenham. Visit, call or fill out out quick contact form to get in touch now.