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Overview of Looked After Children
- Looked after children are disadvantaged compared to peers, becoming independent younger with less support.
- The law sets duties for looked after children under court orders or voluntary arrangements.
Support and Care for Looked After Children
- Looked after children are entitled to an advocate to convey wishes and feelings.
- Review meetings occur after 20 working days and then every 6 months for continuing looked after children.
- Support is provided by the Local Authority until at least 21 years old for children leaving care.
Challenges Faced by Looked After Children
- Over 100,000 children were ‘looked after’ in 2017/18, with a disproportionate rate of criminalization.
- Children in residential care are most at risk, ten times more likely to be criminalized.
Transitioning to Adulthood
- Transition from care can be challenging, but support aids adjustment.
- Most looked after children receive leaving care services around 16 years old, with support available for education until age 25.
