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“This report provides further evidence around the vital importance of inclusive schools and a properly funded SEND system."

Cllr Judith Blake responds to OFSTED's annual report on the overall quality of education and care in England

“This report echoes our concerns that the recruitment and retention of suitably qualified childcare practitioners is becoming increasingly difficult largely due to low wages and poor career progression."

"We urge the Government to also consider investing in the recruitment and support of foster carers to make sure that we have the most suitable placements available for all children."

"This report reinforces the need to do more nationally to improve children’s mental health services and develop a system that says yes to children when they ask for or need help."

New figures show that the number of children in care has risen by 28 per cent in the past decade with the system reaching breaking point, the Local Government Association reveals today.  The LGA is warning that this huge increase in demand is combining with funding shortages to put immense pressure on the ability of councils to support vulnerable children and young people, and provide the early help that can stop children and families reaching crisis point in the first place. The figures show that 78,150 children are now in care, up from 75,370 in 2018.   The Government’s manifesto

The new government must provide appropriate funding to ensure the right homes are available for all children in the right place whatever their needs.

Cllr Judith Blake responds to the Action for Children report on youth carers feeling lonely and stressed over the Christmas period.

“The Government’s announcement of an increase in schools budgets by £7.1 billion will help give certainty up to 2023, and an additional £780 million for council high needs budgets to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) for next year is good news."

“Alongside other partners, councils have also made good progress in improving children’s health, from health visitors supporting new parents to weight management services."