Concerns Raised Over Long-Distance Placements

A health and social care expert at Irwin Mitchell has called on local authorities to sit up and take notice of warnings over the risk of putting children on long-distance placements.

The BBC reports that charities including Barnado’s and the Who Cares Trust have joined forces to raise awareness of the dangers that can emerge when youngsters are placed in care away from home.

It was revealed such a move can often traumatise already vulnerable children, leading them towards criminal or drug problems, as well as even sexual exploitation.

The government is expected to address the issue in April, when it is likely to call for councils to improve the standard and availability of accommodation in their areas.

Tracey Storey, a Partner in Irwin Mitchell’s London office who specialises in helping victims of child abuse and neglect, said: “My team and I regularly see the devastating, long-term impact that abuse at a young age can have on so many people.

“It is vital that youngsters are given the best possible support to help them recover as best as they can from such problems and move forward in their lives.

“As the warning from these charities shows, the right care placements are a vital part of this and can fully impact on the future that these children can go on to have. Councils must not underestimate the importance of this and do everything they can to help young people make fresh start in their lives in the best possible environment.”