The Department for Education (DfE) has published the concluding report of its review of children in need in England. Alongside this, the DfE has published children in need final data and analysis. Findings include: at least 1.6 million children needed social care services between 2012/13 and 2017/18 and children who have been in need of social care services at some point between 2012/13 and 2017/18 are present in 98% of schools in England. Areas for action include: better recognition of how many children need a social worker; supporting children in need to stay in education; and developing a wider system of specialist support in and around schools.
“Our ambition for Children in Need of help and protection is the same as for any other child: that they should be safe and have the opportunity to succeed. Those who have faced adversity, trauma, or are disabled may face barriers in education, but this cannot be allowed to stop any child from realising their potential.” Department for Education. Download the full report.
Young people who face disadvantage in their early years and throughout their time in education are 50% more likely to become NEET (not in education, employment or training) than their more advantaged peers. This is why it is important to understand the Children in Need group identified here by the Department for Education, it allows for employers to better understand the challenges faced by this group and the type of intervention that may support them to close the gap and fulfil their potential.
If you would like to find out more about supporting the Children in Need group through your early careers, work experience or employment opportunities please contact the Youth Employment UK team.
