Bracknell children in care has increased but remains lower than national figures

There has been an "increasing demand" for children services in the borough, with the number of children in the care system rising from 2015 to 2019.

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Figures revealed from the Department of Education and Newsquest Data Investigations Unit show there were 158 children looked after in care in 2019 in comparison to 104 in 2015.

However, the council's spending reflects the number of children being looked after, with the figure rising from £6.2 million in 2015 to £10.2 million in 2018 to 2019.

Nikki Edwards, executive director of people at BFC, said: “As an authority, we have a duty of care to look after vulnerable children within the Bracknell Forest area.

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"Over the past few years we have seen an increase in demand for these services, which is reflected within these figures. However, when we put these figures into a national context they are in line with data for both the South East and nationally, with the numbers for Bracknell Forest remaining consistently lower than the national figure for the past five years. "

The figures show there is a 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, according to the Local Government Association.

Nationally, there are 78,150 children in care, up from 75,370 in 2018.

Councillor Judith Blake, chair of the LGA’s children and young people board, said: “These figures show the sheer scale of the unprecedented demand pressures on children’s services and the care system this decade.

“This is unsustainable. Councils want to make sure that children can get the best, rather than just get by, and that means investing in the right services to reach them at the right time.

“Councils need to be given a seat at the table for the care system review, alongside children, families and partners, to make sure this looks at what really matters and what can really make a difference."

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The government’s manifesto promise of a review of the children’s social care system, which is a great opportunity for them to work with councils and partners, such as schools, social workers and foster carers to improve the system.

The LGA says this collaboration is vital if the review is to deliver change where it is most needed amid this unprecedented demand.

Cllr Nikki Edwards added: “In terms of associated costs these have also increased, however, figures shown in the data reflect total expenditure which doesn’t take into account the income we receive through contributions and grants. "Our commitment to vulnerable children within our borough means that despite this challenging, demand-led increase, we will continue to offer assistance to those in need.”