Dramatic increase in the number of children being taken into the care system


Josie Hayes web

By Josephine Hayes

A study by the University of Lancaster recently hit the headlines by revealing that the number of new born babies being taken into the care system has more than doubled over the last 5 years. Over 2000 babies were placed into care in 2013 compared to only 800 in 2008. Research indicates that only 10% of babies are returned to their parents’ care at the end of proceedings with the rest living with family members, being fostered or adopted.

The report highlighted a circle of failure where children who have been in the care system and have been let down, go on to have children of their own and are unable to provide stable parenting leading to those children also being placed in care. Many then go on to have further children to replace the lost baby and a destructive cycle follows.

Whilst having a child removed from your care is extreme, it is very common for separated parents to encounter difficulties in agreeing the arrangements for their child. Most parents want to do what is best for their child but with heightened emotions and worries about finances and separation it can be difficult to know what is best for children.

At Barker Gotelee we can offer a free initial consultation for anyone experiencing difficulties in agreeing the arrangements for their children and who need some help and advice.

Josephine Hayes is a solicitor in the Family department at Barker Gotelee Solicitors.

Family Solicitors in Ipswich – for more information on our range of legal services, please call the team on 01473 611211 or email [email protected]