Looked-after children and young people live away from their families for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is because their parents faced difficulties in providing for their care or because the children have suffered a family breakdown, abuse or neglect whilst in the care of their families. It is very rare that children and young people are offered care purely due to poor behaviour. In South Gloucestershire there are approximately 180 children who are looked after. These children and young people are some of the most vulnerable children in society.
Children who are looked after are also referred to as 'children in public care'.
Settings
Children and young people are looked after in different settings depending on their needs. Most often this will be in the family home of foster carers but children may also live in residential schools or units - especially if they have special needs. The children may spend a short time in the council's care before returning to their family or joining another family, for example through adoption. For others, their stay is for many years, lasting until adulthood.