Number of looked after children rose again in 2011/12: DfE

The number of looked after children in England continued to rise in 2011/12, according to statistics released by the Department for Education. However, the number of adoptions was at its highest level since 2007.

The figures – based on data from the SSDA903 return collected from all local authorities – revealed that there were 67,050 looked after children at 31 March 2012.

This is up 2% on the previous year and an increase of 13% compared with 2007/08.

Other findings from the DfE data were that:

• Of children looked after at 31 March 2012, 50,260 were cared for in a foster placement. This represented 75% of all children looked after at 31 March 2012;
• There were 28,220 children who started to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2012 – up 3% on the previous year and 21% from 2008;
• There were 27,350 children who ceased to be looked after during the year ending 31 March 2012. This is a 1% increase on last year and up 12% on 2007/08.

In relation to adoptions, the DfE statistical release reported that 3,450 looked after children were adopted during the year ending 31 March 2012. This was an increase of 12% on the previous year.

Edward Timpson, Minister for Children and Families, said: “The rise in the number of adoptions and adoption placement orders is extremely welcome, but it still takes too long for those who want to adopt and foster to be approved. The time it takes for a child in care to be adopted can be a significant period in that child’s life.

“I know from my own family that parents who adopt and foster bring stability to young lives. That is why we are overhauling adoption, but I know that our reforms will take time to make a full impact.”

Last week the Government launched a consultation on measures aimed at speeding up the process of fostering and adoption.

The proposals include a new two-stage process for adopters, as well as a new fast track procedure for approved foster carers and previous adopters who wish to adopt.