http://www.communitycare.co.uken-gbThu, 09 Feb 2012 17:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117975/social-worker-suspended-for-not-reporting-underage-sex-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117975/social-worker-suspended-for-not-reporting-underage-sex-case.htmlA social worker has been suspended for not reporting a case of sexual activity between two children aged under 13, in breach of national child protection guidance. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117973/family-courts-plans-risk-miscarriages-of-justice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117973/family-courts-plans-risk-miscarriages-of-justice.htmlSocial workers and children's guardians have condemned "nonsensical" government plans for a six-month limit on care cases, warning the deadline could lead to miscarriages of justice.Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117972/record-child-referrals-push-social-workers-to-breaking-point.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117972/record-child-referrals-push-social-workers-to-breaking-point.htmlSocial workers are struggling to deal with record numbers of children entering care and some have become so stressed they are leaving the profession, it has been claimed. (Pic model released: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features) Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117970/cafcass-reveals-record-care-applications-for-january.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/09/117970/cafcass-reveals-record-care-applications-for-january.htmlCare applications to family courts body Cafcass are continuing to soar, according to the latest statistics, with record numbers of referrals made last month. (Pic: Voisin/Phanie/Rex Features) Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117968/essex-council-unveils-plans-for-social-impact-bonds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/08/117968/essex-council-unveils-plans-for-social-impact-bonds.htmlEssex council has confirmed plans to use social impact bonds to fund intensive and community-based work with families and children on the edge of care or custody. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/07/117966/eileen-munro-takes-new-role-at-the-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/07/117966/eileen-munro-takes-new-role-at-the-college-of-social-work.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has been appointed transitional chair of The College of Social Work’s children’s faculty, it was announced today. Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117957/ofsted-well-supported-social-workers-improve-child-outcomes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117957/ofsted-well-supported-social-workers-improve-child-outcomes.htmlSocial workers who are supported by “accessible” and “visible” senior managers do improve outcomes for children, according to Ofsted.Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117954/lords-vote-to-reject-50-cuts-to-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/02/01/117954/lords-vote-to-reject-50-cuts-to-disabled-children.htmlDisability campaigners are celebrating today after peers from across the House of Lords voted yesterday to reject a 50% cut to disabled children’s benefits. Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/31/117951/ofsted-to-give-no-notice-on-child-protection-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/31/117951/ofsted-to-give-no-notice-on-child-protection-inspections.htmlLocal authorities will be given no notice before their child protection services are inspected when Ofsted’s new inspection framework comes into force in May. Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117949/council-fined-for-sending-childrens-reports-to-wrong-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/30/117949/council-fined-for-sending-childrens-reports-to-wrong-people.htmlMidlothian council has been fined £140,000 for sending children’s social services reports to the wrong recipients on five occasions.Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117946/birmingham-appoints-new-director-of-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117946/birmingham-appoints-new-director-of-childrens-services.htmlBirmingham council has appointed the head of an ‘outstanding’ social services department in Lincolnshire to help transform its troubled children’s services.Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117945/call-for-national-inquiry-following-second-child-custody-death.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/27/117945/call-for-national-inquiry-following-second-child-custody-death.htmlTwo teenagers who were serving time at young offender institutions in England have died in the space of a week. Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/23/117939/half-of-social-workers-feel-powerless-to-stop-neglect.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/23/117939/half-of-social-workers-feel-powerless-to-stop-neglect.htmlHalf of social workers feel powerless to stop children being neglected because of high thresholds and inadequate resources. (Image: Rex Features)Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/19/117938/independent-negotiators-to-restart-baswcollege-talks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/19/117938/independent-negotiators-to-restart-baswcollege-talks.htmlThe British Association of Social Workers (BASW) and the College of Social Work are to reopen talks on a possible merger. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117934/council-pays-1m-damages-for-shocking-child-abuse-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117934/council-pays-1m-damages-for-shocking-child-abuse-failings.htmlEssex council has paid damages of almost £1m to four siblings it failed to protect from years of parental abuse, Community Care has learned. (Pic: posed by model, Nigel R. Barklie/Rex Features)Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117935/councils-face-hidden-army-of-child-abuse-damage-claimants.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117935/councils-face-hidden-army-of-child-abuse-damage-claimants.htmlLocal authorities could be hit by a “hidden army” of people seeking damages for historic child abuse cases, lawyers have warned.Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117932/basw-workloads-undermining-ethical-social-work-practice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/18/117932/basw-workloads-undermining-ethical-social-work-practice.htmlUnmanageable caseloads are making it impossible for social workers to practice ethically, the British Association of Social Workers warned today as it issued a revised version of its code of ethics. (Image: Rex Features). Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/17/117930/budget-cuts-lead-to-child-sexual-exploitation-fears.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/17/117930/budget-cuts-lead-to-child-sexual-exploitation-fears.htmlTackling child sexual exploitation is already slipping off the agenda in some local areas due to funding pressures and budget cuts, research by Barnardo’s has revealed.Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117927/going-into-care-early-reduces-risk-of-offending-study-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/16/117927/going-into-care-early-reduces-risk-of-offending-study-finds.htmlEarly entry into care, stable placements and purposeful activity can significantly reduce a child’s risk of turning to crime, research published today has found. Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117925/thousands-of-restraint-victims-could-seek-compensation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/13/117925/thousands-of-restraint-victims-could-seek-compensation.htmlChildren who were unlawfully restrained in privately-run secure training centres over a ten-year period could pursue compensation claims, according to a high court judge.Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117922/should-you-join-the-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117922/should-you-join-the-college-of-social-work.htmlLast week’s launch of The College of Social Work has posed each of England’s approximately 85,000 social workers with a simple question: to join or not to join? Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117921/half-a-million-uk-children-are-unhappy-study-reveals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/12/117921/half-a-million-uk-children-are-unhappy-study-reveals.htmlHalf a million children across the UK are unhappy with their lives, according to research published today by The Children’s Society. Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117918/cafcass-how-we-screen-200-private-law-cases-a-day.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117918/cafcass-how-we-screen-200-private-law-cases-a-day.htmlOn a typical day, at least 200 private law applications will arrive at Cafcass’ national business centre (NBC) in Coventry. Every application - from a parent or guardian - will be different, but each will represent a child who has experienced family breakdown. Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117920/debt-ridden-social-workers-turning-to-payday-loans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/11/117920/debt-ridden-social-workers-turning-to-payday-loans.htmlGrowing numbers of social workers are falling financial difficulties, with some resorting to high-interest payday loans, according to a support charity. (Pic: Image Source/Rex Features)Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117916/ten-days-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/10/117916/ten-days-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlAdoption support agencies could be given just 10 days’ notice before an Ofsted inspection, rather than the current eight-week period, under proposals outlined today.Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/09/117912/dont-forget-needs-of-older-children-in-care-urges-charity.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/09/117912/dont-forget-needs-of-older-children-in-care-urges-charity.htmlUrgent attention must be given to older children who become looked-after, Barnardo’s has warned, as new data reveals high numbers of older children entered care for the first time last year. Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117910/ministers-order-first-official-study-into-adoption-breakdown.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/06/117910/ministers-order-first-official-study-into-adoption-breakdown.htmlThe first study looking at why, and how often, adoptions break down has been commissioned by the Department for Education. (Pic: Janie Airey/Mood Board/Rex Features)Fri, 06 Jan 2012 14:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117907/social-workers-must-join-renewed-effort-to-integrate-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/05/117907/social-workers-must-join-renewed-effort-to-integrate-care.htmlSocial care professionals should be at the heart of multi-disciplinary teams in every area to manage the care of people with long-term conditions and make a reality of integrated care, the government has been told. Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117903/carers-disproportionately-hit-by-government-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/04/117903/carers-disproportionately-hit-by-government-cuts.htmlCarers will be disproportionately hit by government benefit cuts over the coming years, research published today shows. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117900/munro-leads-new-year-roll-of-honour-in-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2012/01/03/117900/munro-leads-new-year-roll-of-honour-in-social-care.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has been awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours List following her review into child protection, which last year called for sweeping reforms to assessments and performance management. Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/23/117891/community-cares-predictions-for-social-care-in-2012.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/23/117891/community-cares-predictions-for-social-care-in-2012.htmlCare funding deadlock, industrial strife and a change of leadership at a key agency. We gaze into our crystal ball to predict what 2012 might hold for social care (Pic: Everett Collection/Rex Features )Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117899/how-to.-carry-out-a-fear-audit-in-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117899/how-to.-carry-out-a-fear-audit-in-social-work.htmlClaudia Megele explores the impact of distress and fear in social work practice and explains how "fear audits" could help.Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117897/painfully-slow-adoption-system-to-be-overhauled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/22/117897/painfully-slow-adoption-system-to-be-overhauled.htmlThe assessment process for prospective adopters will be stripped of some of its red tape in a bid to reduce waiting times for children in care, children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured) has revealed.Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/21/117890/top-five-victories-against-social-care-cuts-of-2011.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/21/117890/top-five-victories-against-social-care-cuts-of-2011.htmlWhile cuts have dominated social care in 2011 some proposed funding reductions and organisational closures have been successfully reversed. Here are our top five victories against the cuts. Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117889/carers-uk-names-age-uk-director-as-new-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/16/117889/carers-uk-names-age-uk-director-as-new-chief.htmlCarers UK has named Heléna Herklots as its new chief executive. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/15/117888/government-rejects-munro-early-intervention-duty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/15/117888/government-rejects-munro-early-intervention-duty.htmlThe government has refused to implement a key recommendation in the Munro Review of child protection to create an early intervention duty on councils.Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117881/domestic-violence-definition-to-include-victims-aged-under-18.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/14/117881/domestic-violence-definition-to-include-victims-aged-under-18.htmlCampaigners have hailed government proposals to widen the definition of domestic violence to include victims aged under 18 and those who have experienced ongoing controlling behaviour from partners. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117870/1.5bn-cut-for-councils-with-social-care-responsibilities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/09/117870/1.5bn-cut-for-councils-with-social-care-responsibilities.htmlCouncils responsible for social care in England will have £1.5bn taken out of their budgets next year, the government has said. Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/08/117868/councils-fail-to-divert-children-in-care-from-custody.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/08/117868/councils-fail-to-divert-children-in-care-from-custody.htmlLocal authorities across the country are failing to divert looked-after children from "the dreary, damaging route from care to custody", according to research published today. Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117867/survey-reveals-plight-of-families-with-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117867/survey-reveals-plight-of-families-with-disabled-children.htmlNearly three-quarters of families with disabled children have experienced anxiety, depression or family breakdown, according to the latest research by Contact a Family. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117864/council-job-cuts-near-150000-for-the-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/07/117864/council-job-cuts-near-150000-for-the-year.htmlCouncils across England have shed 145,000 jobs over the past year and the number is set to rise, according to a report published today by the Audit Commission. Unison head of local government Heather Wakefield (pictured), said: "Councils have already made far more job cuts than they said would be necessary. This report shows that the worst is yet to come.” Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117861/council-failed-teenager-with-severe-autism.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/06/117861/council-failed-teenager-with-severe-autism.htmlA teenager with severe autism missed out on educational and social care support due to failings by Staffordshire Council, a review by the local government ombudsman has found. Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117855/government-launches-missing-children-strategy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117855/government-launches-missing-children-strategy.htmlA national strategy to reduce the number of children and vulnerable adults who go missing from home or care has today been published by the Home Office. Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117853/second-council-ordered-to-review-care-fees-for-providers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/05/117853/second-council-ordered-to-review-care-fees-for-providers.htmlCouncils have been warned that they face having care cuts reversed in the courts after a second authority was ordered to review a decision to freeze fees.Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/01/117846/disabled-people-in-care-homes-to-retain-dla-benefit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/12/01/117846/disabled-people-in-care-homes-to-retain-dla-benefit.htmlDisabled people living in residential care will continue to receive the mobility component of the disability living allowance and personal independence payment, minister for disabled people Maria Miller announced today. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117836/social-care-faces-deeper-cuts-on-back-of-osborne-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117836/social-care-faces-deeper-cuts-on-back-of-osborne-plan.htmlSocial care will face deeper cuts lasting until 2017 on the back of chancellor George Osborne's Autumn Statement issued yesterday. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117838/catholic-church-details-extent-of-child-abuse-by-priests.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/30/117838/catholic-church-details-extent-of-child-abuse-by-priests.htmlThe Catholic Church has published a review of its handling of more than 52 allegations of sexual abuse by priests in the Diocese of Raphoe in Northern Ireland. Wed, 30 Nov 2011 11:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117831/ministers-defend-college-of-social-works-tie-up-with-unison.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117831/ministers-defend-college-of-social-works-tie-up-with-unison.htmlGovernment ministers have defended the College of Social Work’s tie-up with Unison following criticism from the education select committee earlier this month. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117834/use-of-child-protection-volunteers-sees-risk-levels-fall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117834/use-of-child-protection-volunteers-sees-risk-levels-fall.htmlA pilot using volunteers in child protection cases has seen risk levels for children decrease in more than three quarters of cases new research has shown. Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117832/osborne-extends-public-sector-pay-squeeze-until-2015.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117832/osborne-extends-public-sector-pay-squeeze-until-2015.htmlPublic sector pay will be squeezed until 2015 and cuts to services will continue until 2017, chancellor George Osborne announced today in his Autumn Statement (Image: Steve Back). Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117833/temporary-reprieve-for-essex-childrens-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/29/117833/temporary-reprieve-for-essex-childrens-homes.htmlEssex Council has temporarily reversed its controversial decision to close all of its children's homes following a legal challenge by a teenager living in one of the affected homes. (Picture posed by model) Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117825/external-court-assessments-costing-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117825/external-court-assessments-costing-councils.htmlThe increasing number of court orders demanding independent expert reports in family court proceedings is starting to take a financial toll on local authorities.Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117823/government-u-turn-on-scrapping-of-youth-justice-board.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117823/government-u-turn-on-scrapping-of-youth-justice-board.htmlThe Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has announced the Youth Justice Board will no longer be included in the Public Bodies Bill, currently going through parliament, which is often referred to as the government's "bonfire of the quangos". Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117799/council-fined-for-child-protection-botch.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/24/117799/council-fined-for-child-protection-botch.htmlA council has been fined more than £12,000 for a flawed child protection investigation, including an attempt to take a girl into care without considering other options and only seeking her mother's agreement after the decision had been taken.Thu, 24 Nov 2011 01:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117810/sexual-exploitation-action-plan-includes-extra-training-for-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117810/sexual-exploitation-action-plan-includes-extra-training-for-workers.htmlThe government will issue a step-by-step guide for workers on what to do if they are worried a child is being sexually exploited as part of an action plan on the issue, it was announced today.Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117816/ukbas-family-returns-panel-makes-the-process-more-humane.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117816/ukbas-family-returns-panel-makes-the-process-more-humane.htmlThe days when children could be detained with their families at Yarl's Wood immigration removal centre, sometimes for more than two months, are still current in most people's memories. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117815/mps-undecided-over-abolition-of-yjb.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117815/mps-undecided-over-abolition-of-yjb.htmlThe House of Commons' justice select committee has made a number of proposals on the scrapping of the Youth Justice Board, although it has expressed no united opinion on the YJB's future. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117814/care-worker-who-gave-child-alcohol-struck-off.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/23/117814/care-worker-who-gave-child-alcohol-struck-off.htmlA residential child care worker who poured alcohol into a 15-year-old service user's soft drink and applied fake tan to another child's torso has been struck off for breaching professional boundaries. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117807/ofsted-praises-adoption-panels-despite-abolition-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117807/ofsted-praises-adoption-panels-despite-abolition-plans.html Ofsted has praised the work of adoption panels after the Family Justice Review recommended they should be scrapped. The watchdog's annual report, published...Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117803/children-forced-into-contact-with-violent-parents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/22/117803/children-forced-into-contact-with-violent-parents.htmlChildren removed from homes where domestic violence was present are being forced to stay in contact with violent parents against their will, according to a report published by Refuge and the NSPCC. Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/21/117795/uk-childrens-commissioners-want-review-of-effect-of-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/21/117795/uk-childrens-commissioners-want-review-of-effect-of-cuts.htmlThe four UK Children's Commissioners have called for an urgent reassessment of the impact of government spending cuts on the needs of vulnerable children. Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/18/117791/government-orders-rapid-review-of-adoption.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/18/117791/government-orders-rapid-review-of-adoption.htmlThe government has ordered the Treasury to conduct a "rapid review" of adoption focused on speeding up the process and increasing the number of adoptions from care, Community Care has learned. Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117784/health-and-munro-reforms-to-be-integrated.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/17/117784/health-and-munro-reforms-to-be-integrated.htmlThe Department of Health is working with the Department for Education to integrate health reforms with proposals from Eileen Munro's review of child protection. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117774/social-workers-find-new-child-protection-assessments-scary.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117774/social-workers-find-new-child-protection-assessments-scary.htmlMany social workers find moving away from a tick box approach to child protection assessments “scary”, according to one of the first councils to answer the Munro Review's call for less bureaucracy and centralisation. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117770/social-workers-urged-to-forge-closer-links-with-sure-start.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117770/social-workers-urged-to-forge-closer-links-with-sure-start.htmlChildren’s social workers need to work closer with Sure Start children's centres for parenting support to have a significant impact on child protection, according to a sector expert. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117763/most-social-workers-threatened-in-past-six-months.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117763/most-social-workers-threatened-in-past-six-months.htmlNearly two-thirds of children's social workers have been threatened by hostile or intimidating parents in the past six months, a survey by Community Care and children's services consultancy Reconstruct of more than 600 workers has found. Many had received multiple threats. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117762/councils-accused-duty-of-care-breach-over-hostile-parents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117762/councils-accused-duty-of-care-breach-over-hostile-parents.htmlCouncils have been accused of breaching their duty of care to social workers following the results of a Community Care and children's services consultancy Reconstruct survey of more than 600 frontline workers about dealing with hostile and intimidating parents. ...Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117761/social-workers-want-guidelines-to-help-with-hostile-parents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/16/117761/social-workers-want-guidelines-to-help-with-hostile-parents.htmlChildren's social workers want national guidelines to help them cope with hostile and intimidating parents, according to a survey ­carried out by Community Care and Reconstruct. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117765/independent-social-workers-being-forced-out-of-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117765/independent-social-workers-being-forced-out-of-system.htmlIndependent social workers are seeking a meeting with children's minister Tim Loughton after claiming they are being systematically forced out of the child protection systemTue, 15 Nov 2011 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117760/most-young-runaways-invisible-to-professionals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117760/most-young-runaways-invisible-to-professionals.htmlTwo-thirds of children who run away from home or care are "invisible" to professionals, according to the latest research by The Children's Society.Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117756/councils-fail-to-keep-figures-on-missing-children-in-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/15/117756/councils-fail-to-keep-figures-on-missing-children-in-care.htmlCouncils across the country are flouting their legal duties by ­failing to keep accurate records of children missing from care, a Community Care investigation has revealed. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117738/quarter-of-babies-at-risk-of-maltreatment-from-parents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/10/117738/quarter-of-babies-at-risk-of-maltreatment-from-parents.htmlOne in four babies in Britain is at risk of abuse because their home life is violent or their parents have mental health or drug problems, according to research by the NSPCC. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117735/mps-hear-scie-chief-call-basw-unethical-in-college-row.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117735/mps-hear-scie-chief-call-basw-unethical-in-college-row.htmlThe row over the creation of the College of Social Work deepened today as the British Association of Social Workers was accused of "unethical" and "unprincipled" behaviour by Allan Bowman (pictured), the chair of the Social Care Institute for Excellence. Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117734/council-improves-its-failing-child-safeguarding-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/08/117734/council-improves-its-failing-child-safeguarding-services.htmlEssex Council has turned around its failing child safeguarding services and is now rated adequate by Ofsted, according to the watchdog's annual children's services assessments. Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117733/social-worker-struck-off-after-falsifying-record.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117733/social-worker-struck-off-after-falsifying-record.htmlA social worker who misled his employer about a 2010 conduct hearing and obtained work using a false reference has been struck off the social care register. Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117729/council-to-ease-staff-pressure-as-protection-fears-surface.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/07/117729/council-to-ease-staff-pressure-as-protection-fears-surface.htmlCardiff Council has said it is easing the pressure on its children's social workers after a leaked document highlighted concerns among staff that high workloads. (Picture: Rex, stressed social worker, model released).Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117714/community-care-moves-to-an-online-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117714/community-care-moves-to-an-online-future.htmlCommunity Care takes the difficult decision to close the print magazine and focus all its energy and resources on supporting social care professionals online. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117715/social-workers-confused-over-college-and-gscc-roles.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/04/117715/social-workers-confused-over-college-and-gscc-roles.htmlDespite the imminent formation of the College of Social Work many social workers and social work students do not know the difference between a regulator and a professional body. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117704/family-justice-review-wants-to-eliminate-shocking-delays.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/03/117704/family-justice-review-wants-to-eliminate-shocking-delays.htmlSocial workers and courts will be expected to complete care cases in no longer than six months, if recommendations made by the Family Justice Review, led by David Norgrove (pictured) are accepted by government. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117700/high-social-work-caseloads-blamed-for-council-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/02/117700/high-social-work-caseloads-blamed-for-council-failings.htmlThe man brought in to turn around children's social care in Kent has said that high caseloads were a significant reason why the council's services were deemed inadequate by Ofsted last December.Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/01/117696/children-in-care-to-gain-savings-head-start.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/11/01/117696/children-in-care-to-gain-savings-head-start.htmlChildren who have been looked-after for more than one year are to be given individual savings accounts, each with an initial payment of £200, the Department for Education announced today. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117693/social-workers-criticise-quality-of-work-by-guardians.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117693/social-workers-criticise-quality-of-work-by-guardians.htmlSocial workers say their relationship with court guardians is close to breaking point and having a direct impact on their ability to support and protect children. Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117690/government-publishes-crude-adoption-league-tables.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/31/117690/government-publishes-crude-adoption-league-tables.htmlThe government has published league tables which, for the first time, rank local authorities on how quickly they are placing children for adoption. (picture Rex, posed by models) Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/27/117676/social-workers-key-to-keeping-children-out-of-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/27/117676/social-workers-key-to-keeping-children-out-of-care.htmlOfsted has backed the importance of the social worker relationship with families, finding it is the most effective way to prevent children from entering care. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117668/social-workers-underestimate-the-fragility-of-babies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/26/117668/social-workers-underestimate-the-fragility-of-babies.htmlSocial workers and other professionals are not always quick enough in their response to concerns about children under a year old because they underestimate the fragility of babies, according to an evaluation of serious case reviews. (Picture: Rex Features) Wed, 26 Oct 2011 10:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/25/117666/council-must-pay-320000-for-child-abuse-in-1990s.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/25/117666/council-must-pay-320000-for-child-abuse-in-1990s.htmlA council has been found liable for the sexual abuse of four children by their father spanning 15 years because of poor social work. The High Court in London (pictured) ordered the authority to pay £320,000 damages.Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/25/117664/talking-therapies-for-children-receive-32m-boost.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/25/117664/talking-therapies-for-children-receive-32m-boost.htmlThe government has announced a £32 million investment in psychological therapies, including talking therapies, for children and young people with mental health problems.Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117661/ofsted-could-accompany-social-workers-on-child-visits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/24/117661/ofsted-could-accompany-social-workers-on-child-visits.htmlSocial workers could soon be accompanied by Ofsted inspectors when carrying out visits to children, Ofsted has revealed. John Goldup (pictured), Ofsted's director of social care, said the practice would help inspectors gauge the standard of services provided to children and families. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117642/gove-urges-social-workers-to-act-earlier-to-protect-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117642/gove-urges-social-workers-to-act-earlier-to-protect-children.htmlSocial workers are failing to intervene in the lives of troubled children because they fear intense criticism from the public and the media, education secretary Michael Gove (left) has claimed. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117643/dramatic-rise-in-child-protection-vacancies-in-nhs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/21/117643/dramatic-rise-in-child-protection-vacancies-in-nhs.htmlVacancy rates in NHS child protection posts are rising dramatically a survey of local safeguarding children boards has found. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117637/a-third-of-disabled-children-missing-out-on-holiday-childcare.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117637/a-third-of-disabled-children-missing-out-on-holiday-childcare.htmlOne in three parents of disabled children received no holiday childcare during summer 2011, according to a survey conducted by KIDS in partnership with Mencap. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117639/social-workers-are-central-to-childrens-personalisation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117639/social-workers-are-central-to-childrens-personalisation.htmlSocial workers should have a key role in the personalisation agenda for disabled children to ensure the needs of families do not eclipse the needs of children, according to the Council for Disabled Children. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117634/adoption-template-will-highlight-best-practice-locally.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117634/adoption-template-will-highlight-best-practice-locally.html The government is about to publish an "adoption template" highlighting good practice around the country, the children's minister has revealed. Speaking at the National Children and Adult Services conference, Tim Loughton said he had become frustrated by varying practice around the country and wanted to encourage authorities to "learn from each other". "Everything we need for a perfect adoption system is happening already, but in different parts of the country," Loughton said. "It's not rocket science. I want everyone to take the initiative and learn from each other to deliver better services." He said he was concerned about the "lack of sharing" among authorities. "Often I'll find an excellent initiative happening in one local authority and discover the neighbouring authority has no idea about it. Why is that happening?" he asked. The document, which Loughton said he would publish shortly, will highlight best practice, based on information gathered by the minister and civil...Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117631/lscbs-to-be-reminded-of-duty-to-publish-scrs-in-full.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117631/lscbs-to-be-reminded-of-duty-to-publish-scrs-in-full.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton is to write to local safeguarding children boards (LSCBs) reminding them of their duty to publish serious case reviews in full in the near future. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117632/government-still-undecided-on-early-intervention-duty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/20/117632/government-still-undecided-on-early-intervention-duty.htmlThe government is still undecided on whether to create a legal duty on councils to provide earlier intervention to families in need, as recommended by Professor Eileen Munro in her review of the child protection system in England. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117629/make-clients-apple-of-your-eye-public-services-urged.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/19/117629/make-clients-apple-of-your-eye-public-services-urged.htmlPublic services should think more like technology giant Apple and make client needs the top priority, Sir Michael Bichard, told the National Children and Adult Services Conference in London.Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/18/117627/call-to-curb-scrutiny-powers-of-family-court-judges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/18/117627/call-to-curb-scrutiny-powers-of-family-court-judges.htmlFamily court judges should have their powers of scrutiny limited to core decisions, such as whether to take a child into care, kinship arrangements and permanency planning, according to a major report on the family justice system due out soon.Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/14/117609/councils-pressurise-foster-carers-to-become-special-guardians.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/14/117609/councils-pressurise-foster-carers-to-become-special-guardians.htmlFoster carers are facing increasing pressure to become special guardians as local authorities try to balance their budgets, Community Care has learned. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117602/social-workers-misread-ghanaian-culture-in-baby-death-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117602/social-workers-misread-ghanaian-culture-in-baby-death-case.htmlSocial workers failed to understand the Ghanaian cultural values attached to weight and size in the case of a 10-month-old baby who died after her mother force fed her, a serious case review has concluded. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117606/action-for-children-sounds-alarm-over-rise-in-demand.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/13/117606/action-for-children-sounds-alarm-over-rise-in-demand.htmlAlmost half (48%) of all Action for Children services have reported rises in the number of children and families needing support over the past three months according to its latest report. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/12/117594/foster-children-locked-out-of-home-until-carer-returns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/12/117594/foster-children-locked-out-of-home-until-carer-returns.htmlFoster children are being locked out of their homes after school until their carer returns from work, the Department for Education has revealed. (Picture: Rex Features, posed by model)Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/11/117592/better-information-sharing-could-have-saved-girl-finds-scr.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/11/117592/better-information-sharing-could-have-saved-girl-finds-scr.htmlThe death of a five-year-old girl might have been prevented if there had been better information-sharing between agencies, a serious case review has found. Gabrielle Grady, aged five, died after her father, Chris Grady, deliberately drove a car in which she and her younger brother, Ryan, two, were passengers into a river in Worcestershire in February 2010.Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/10/117587/local-safeguarding-boards-in-wales-fail-to-evidence-their-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/10/117587/local-safeguarding-boards-in-wales-fail-to-evidence-their-work.html Local safeguarding children boards in Wales are failing to evidence their child protection work and need stronger leadership and accountability. This...Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117579/mp-criticises-government-obsession-with-adoptions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117579/mp-criticises-government-obsession-with-adoptions.htmlJohn Hemmings MP (left) has accused the government of being "obsessed" with adoption while ignoring other permanency orders for children, despite not knowing how many adoptions end up breaking down. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117568/30k-more-disabled-children-in-poverty-than-previously-thought.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/07/117568/30k-more-disabled-children-in-poverty-than-previously-thought.htmlThere are more than 30,000 more disabled children living in poverty in the UK than had been previously estimated by the government, according to The Children's Society. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/06/117572/social-worker-suspended-after-child-protection-failings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/06/117572/social-worker-suspended-after-child-protection-failings.htmlA social worker who allowed a man under investigation for sexual abuse to stay at a house where children were living has been suspended for nine months.Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117555/children-miss-out-on-short-breaks-due-to-funding-confusion.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/05/117555/children-miss-out-on-short-breaks-due-to-funding-confusion.htmlChildren with epilepsy, or other conditions causing fits, are missing out on short breaks due to confusion over whether funding should be provided by local authorities or primary care trusts, according to Every Disabled Child Matters.Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/04/117548/council-wants-to-charge-parents-who-put-children-in-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/04/117548/council-wants-to-charge-parents-who-put-children-in-care.htmlParents who put their children into care could soon be forced to foot the bill, under plans being considered by a council in England. (Picture posed by model, credit Rex Features). Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117536/social-workers-struggle-with-hostile-and-intimidating-parents.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117536/social-workers-struggle-with-hostile-and-intimidating-parents.htmlRecent serious case reviews have concluded that social workers struggle to deal with hostile and intimidating parents. Jim Wild explains why a national response is needed. Plus, take our survey on the issue to help map the extent of the problem. Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117545/prison-bullying-linked-to-suicides-in-custody.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/10/03/117545/prison-bullying-linked-to-suicides-in-custody.htmlMore effective reporting and recording of bullying among prisoners must be implemented to reduce the number of suicides within custody, according to a report issued today. Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117534/serious-case-reviews-adding-to-paperwork-overload.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117534/serious-case-reviews-adding-to-paperwork-overload.htmlSerious case reviews (SCRs) are adding to the overload of paperwork and bureaucracy surrounding social workers and other professionals involved in child protection, according to a study published today.Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117533/ofsted-a-quarter-of-councils-not-protecting-children-adequately.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/30/117533/ofsted-a-quarter-of-councils-not-protecting-children-adequately.htmlAlmost a quarter of local authorities are not adequately protecting children in their area according to latest Ofsted figures.Fri, 30 Sep 2011 10:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117507/childrens-spending-on-guardianship-orders-rises-sharply.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117507/childrens-spending-on-guardianship-orders-rises-sharply.htmlCouncil spending on special guardianship orders is set to increase massively this year, sparking concerns it is at the expense of adoption support. Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117516/more-children-on-protection-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117516/more-children-on-protection-plans.htmlThe number of children on child protecton plans in England has risen by 8% since last year, while the number of children in care has gone up by 2%. The rises confirm fears that councils are facing a perfect storm of rising costs for children at risk and slashed budgets.Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117515/adoptions-continue-to-fall-as-children-in-care-rise.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117515/adoptions-continue-to-fall-as-children-in-care-rise.htmlThe number of adoptions has again plummeted in England, according to figures from the Department for Education.Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117508/spending-on-disabled-childrens-services-rises-sharply.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117508/spending-on-disabled-childrens-services-rises-sharply.htmlCouncil spending is set to increase on services for disabled children despite initial fears they could be vulnerable after the ending of ring-fenced budgets. Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117510/spending-on-child-death-reviews-set-to-double.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117510/spending-on-child-death-reviews-set-to-double.htmlSpending on serious case reviews and child death overviews will more than double over the next year, according to council budget data. Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117506/asylum-seeking-children-and-family-support-suffer-most-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/28/117506/asylum-seeking-children-and-family-support-suffer-most-cuts.htmlAsylum-seeking children and children in need will suffer the biggest cuts in spending over the next year, according to statistics that reveal for the first time how much councils plan to spend on children's social care in England during 2011-12. Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/23/117503/suspended-social-worker-was-too-close-to-child-and-mother.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/23/117503/suspended-social-worker-was-too-close-to-child-and-mother.htmlA social worker who became too involved with a child in her care and treated the child's mother "as she would a family member" has been suspended for a yearFri, 23 Sep 2011 15:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117490/recruitment-problems-hamper-bid-to-remodel-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117490/recruitment-problems-hamper-bid-to-remodel-social-work.htmlAttempts to remodel social work in several English councils were hampered by limited resources and difficulties in recruiting and retaining social workers, but have been successful in embedding better practice. Thu, 22 Sep 2011 17:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117491/camhs-cuts-see-younger-children-miss-out-on-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/22/117491/camhs-cuts-see-younger-children-miss-out-on-support.htmlPrimary school-age children with mental health problems will bare the brunt of cuts to child and adolescent mental health services, experts are warning. Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117486/31-councils-to-trial-sen-and-disabilities-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117486/31-councils-to-trial-sen-and-disabilities-reforms.htmlThe proposed single assessment and care plan for children with special educational needs and disabilities will be among proposals piloted by 20 pathfinders, the government announced today. Thirty-one local authorities and primary care trust partners will be involved.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117483/conduct-and-retention-concerns-over-childrens-homes-staff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117483/conduct-and-retention-concerns-over-childrens-homes-staff.htmlResidential child care in Wales has experienced "significant turnover" and a disproportionate number of conduct referrals since the introduction of mandatory registration, the Care Council for Wales reveals in its annual review.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117481/college-of-social-work-to-launch-without-basw.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117481/college-of-social-work-to-launch-without-basw.htmlThe College of Social Work will formally launch on 3 January next year, without the support of the British Association of Social Workers. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117480/protocol-on-managing-children-who-sexually-harm.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/21/117480/protocol-on-managing-children-who-sexually-harm.htmlA protocol on managing children who display sexually harmful behaviour is being developed in Wales after the Cardiff government identified the need for a nationwide response.Wed, 21 Sep 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/19/117471/call-for-private-investors-to-fund-early-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/19/117471/call-for-private-investors-to-fund-early-intervention.htmlPrivate investment in early intervention could save £40,000 a year on supporting each "chaotic" family, according to a report by wealth manager Barclays Wealth and New Philanthropy Capital.Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/16/117469/tory-mp-plans-network-to-help-parents-bond-with-babies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/16/117469/tory-mp-plans-network-to-help-parents-bond-with-babies.htmlConservative MP Andrea Leadsom has announced plans to create a national network of charitable parenting projects to offer intensive support to parents unable to bond with their babies. Fri, 16 Sep 2011 16:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117462/number-of-adoptions-increases-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117462/number-of-adoptions-increases-in-wales.htmlA decline in the adoption rate in Wales has been halted, according to latest figures. Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117454/violent-relationships-common-among-disadvantaged-teenagers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117454/violent-relationships-common-among-disadvantaged-teenagers.htmlHalf of disadvantaged teenage girls have been attacked while in a violent relationship, according to latest research. ...Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117447/family-intervention-projects-report-success-despite-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117447/family-intervention-projects-report-success-despite-cuts.htmlThe number of vulnerable families being offered support through a family intervention project (FIP) almost doubled in the past year, according to latest figures. (Picture posed by models, Alamy)Thu, 15 Sep 2011 09:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117429/lscb-good-practice-not-dependent-on-resources-says-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/15/117429/lscb-good-practice-not-dependent-on-resources-says-ofsted.htmlGood practice at local safeguarding children boards (LSCBs) is not dependent on having plentiful resources, according to a report published by Ofsted today (15 September). Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117445/social-worker-denies-rape-and-sexual-assault.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117445/social-worker-denies-rape-and-sexual-assault.htmlA social worker has vehemently denied allegations that he repeatedly raped and sexually assaulted a child in his care in the 1990s.Wed, 14 Sep 2011 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117438/third-of-councils-no-longer-run-or-own-childrens-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117438/third-of-councils-no-longer-run-or-own-childrens-homes.htmlMore than one-third of English councils no longer own or run any mainstream children's homes, a Community Care investigation has found, raising doubts about the future of local authority provision. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 10:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117440/70000-more-families-with-disabled-children-hit-by-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117440/70000-more-families-with-disabled-children-hit-by-cuts.htmlSeventy thousand more families with disabled children than first thought will see their benefits slashed under Welfare Reform Bill plans, government figures have revealed. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117433/invest-in-support-for-child-sex-victims-and-save-money.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/14/117433/invest-in-support-for-child-sex-victims-and-save-money.htmlEvery pound invested in specialist support for child victims of sexual exploitation saves taxpayers £12, according to a latest Barnardo's report. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117436/scie-launches-mental-health-tool-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117436/scie-launches-mental-health-tool-for-social-workers.htmlThe Social Care Institute for Excellence (Scie) has released a training package to help social workers better understand the needs of parents with mental health problems. Tue, 13 Sep 2011 17:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117437/register-of-restorative-justice-experts-is-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/13/117437/register-of-restorative-justice-experts-is-launched.htmlThe Restorative Justice Council (RJC) has launched the UK's first register of restorative justice experts. Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117428/councils-cant-blame-cuts-for-decline-in-disability-provision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117428/councils-cant-blame-cuts-for-decline-in-disability-provision.htmlCouncils cannot blame government cuts for their failure to protect social care services, according to research that found some authorities were maintaining provision despite deep cuts. Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117426/benefits-cap-will-plunge-200000-children-deeper-into-poverty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/12/117426/benefits-cap-will-plunge-200000-children-deeper-into-poverty.htmlAbout 200,000 children will be plunged deeper into poverty under the government's proposed benefits cap, according to latest analysis by The Children's Society.Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117415/interim-childrens-chief-for-failing-council-balances-two-jobs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117415/interim-childrens-chief-for-failing-council-balances-two-jobs.htmlThe interim director of children's services appointed to failing city council Peterborough will be juggling two jobs while trying to turn safeguarding services around. Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117411/8.5m-to-implement-munro-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/09/117411/8.5m-to-implement-munro-review.htmlThe Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC) has allocated £8.5m to implementing the findings of Eileen Munro's (pictured) review of child protection.Fri, 09 Sep 2011 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/08/117412/child-care-worker-struck-off-after-sex-and-alcohol-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/08/117412/child-care-worker-struck-off-after-sex-and-alcohol-case.htmlA residential child care worker who allowed a girl with known "sexualised behaviour" to spend a night alone with a man in a caravan has been struck off.Thu, 08 Sep 2011 16:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117401/legal-aid-bill-could-leave-thousands-of-children-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/06/117401/legal-aid-bill-could-leave-thousands-of-children-at-risk.htmlThe Legal Aid Bill, if approved, would exclude at least 6,000 children from receiving legal support, according to The Children's Society. Tue, 06 Sep 2011 13:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/05/117395/confidential-child-protection-files-ended-up-in-shop.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/05/117395/confidential-child-protection-files-ended-up-in-shop.htmlThe Information Commissioner has criticised Scotland's child protection and youth justice body after nine confidential case files were found in a cabinet bought from a shop. Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/02/117391/benefits-upheaval-will-damage-foster-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/02/117391/benefits-upheaval-will-damage-foster-care.htmlThousands of foster carers could be forced to give up fostering if government plans to shake up the benefits system go ahead, the Fostering Network has warned. Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117378/e-petition-signals-call-to-reinstate-childrens-homes-body.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/09/01/117378/e-petition-signals-call-to-reinstate-childrens-homes-body.htmlPressure is mounting on the government to reinstate the National Centre for Excellence in Residential Child Care, or a body with a similar remit, as an e-petition is launched on the No 10 website.Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117372/adults-staff-should-use-caf-in-family-mental-health-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117372/adults-staff-should-use-caf-in-family-mental-health-cases.htmlAdults' social workers should be encouraged to use the common assessment framework (CAF) to improve support for families with adults who have mental health problems, the Social Care Institute for Excellence (Scie) has said.Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117368/legal-claims-on-council-social-care-policies-up-by-45.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/31/117368/legal-claims-on-council-social-care-policies-up-by-45.htmlThe number of legal challenges to council social care policies rose by 45% last year and more are being successful, an investigation by Community Care has revealed. Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117360/welfare-changes-could-cost-young-carers-3500-a-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117360/welfare-changes-could-cost-young-carers-3500-a-year.htmlThousands of young carers and their families could lose more than £3,500 a year under proposed welfare reforms, according to The Children's Society.Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117361/6m-funding-boost-for-new-family-intervention-projects.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117361/6m-funding-boost-for-new-family-intervention-projects.htmlThe government has announced an extra £6m per year to fund the development of intensive family intervention programmes across 37 local authorities. Tue, 30 Aug 2011 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117358/social-impact-bonds-for-troubled-families-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/30/117358/social-impact-bonds-for-troubled-families-launched.htmlThe government has introduced social impact bonds to help turn around troubled families. The bonds were championed earlier this year by the MP Graham Allen (pictured) in his report on early intervention. Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/26/117356/number-of-short-breaks-more-than-doubles-in-three-years.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/26/117356/number-of-short-breaks-more-than-doubles-in-three-years.html The number of disabled children receiving short breaks more than doubled between April 2008 and March 2011, with rises in every area of the country, In...Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/26/117355/pressure-mounts-on-ministers-to-save-youth-justice-board.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/26/117355/pressure-mounts-on-ministers-to-save-youth-justice-board.htmlSpeculation about the future of the Youth Justice Board is growing as ministers face mounting pressure to halt plans for its abolition next year. Picture: Rex FeaturesFri, 26 Aug 2011 11:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/23/117340/one-third-of-sexual-exploitation-victims-are-looked-after.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/23/117340/one-third-of-sexual-exploitation-victims-are-looked-after.htmlNearly one-third of children who are sexually exploited in England are looked-after, according to Barnardo's.Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/19/117335/scr-professionals-could-not-have-predicted-child-stabbing.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/19/117335/scr-professionals-could-not-have-predicted-child-stabbing.htmlChild protection professionals acted correctly in the case of an 11-month girl stabbed to death by her mother last year, a serious case review concludes today. Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/18/117327/campaigners-warn-over-naming-and-shaming-of-young-rioters.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/18/117327/campaigners-warn-over-naming-and-shaming-of-young-rioters.htmlNaming and shaming young people involved in the riots across England will hamper their chances of rehabilitation and will fuel vigilante action, campaigners have warned. Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117326/council-strips-social-workers-union-of-recognition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/17/117326/council-strips-social-workers-union-of-recognition.htmlPlymouth Council has stripped local Unison officials of their negotiating powers after the two organisations failed to reach a collective agreement on new terms and conditions, which will affect social workers. Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/16/117312/lack-of-parenting-support-funds-fuels-riots-debate.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/16/117312/lack-of-parenting-support-funds-fuels-riots-debate.htmlLocal authorities are spending on average just 6% of their early intervention grant on parenting support this year, according to responses to a Community Care freedom of information request. This has added fuel to the debate over the riots. (Picture: Alamy, posed by models.) Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/15/117311/riot-youth-remanded-in-custody-denied-yot-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/15/117311/riot-youth-remanded-in-custody-denied-yot-support.htmlYoung people charged with rioting and looting are being remanded in custody without the support from youth offending teams that they are entitled to.Mon, 15 Aug 2011 17:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117308/uphill-battle-for-councils-that-want-to-evict-rioters.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117308/uphill-battle-for-councils-that-want-to-evict-rioters.htmlLocal authorities attempting to evict social housing tenants involved in the rioting in England will face an uphill battle, according to lawyers.Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117301/council-put-reputation-before-child-protection-inspectors-say.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/12/117301/council-put-reputation-before-child-protection-inspectors-say.htmlPembrokeshire Council has been heavily criticised by Welsh inspectors for failing to respond to abuse allegations involving staff including headteachers, teachers, learning support assistants, youth workers and administrative support staff. Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/11/117292/house-of-lords-to-be-social-worker-awards-venue.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/11/117292/house-of-lords-to-be-social-worker-awards-venue.htmlSocial workers will be honoured at the Houses of Parliament on 16 December when the House of Lords hosts the Social Worker of the Year Awards.Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/09/117273/council-failed-to-respond-to-child-protection-referrals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/09/117273/council-failed-to-respond-to-child-protection-referrals.htmlA council has been slammed for failing to respond appropriately to child protection referrals or support a kinship carer involved in a case, after an investigation by the Local Government Ombudsman.Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117271/measures-to-tackle-cafcass-family-courts-backlog-ditched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117271/measures-to-tackle-cafcass-family-courts-backlog-ditched.htmlControversial measures introduced to help Cafcass tackle the backlog of family court cases that built up after the Baby P case are to be discontinued. It follows an agreement between the president of the family division of the High Court and Cafcass chief Anthony Douglas (pictured).Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117269/council-left-children-at-risk-inspectors-find.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/08/117269/council-left-children-at-risk-inspectors-find.htmlInspectors have condemned Anglesey children's services for leaving children at potential risk, poor assessments and long delays in children in need cases. Mon, 08 Aug 2011 11:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117265/childrens-services-deputy-quits-after-ofsted-criticism.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/04/117265/childrens-services-deputy-quits-after-ofsted-criticism.htmlThe deputy director of children and young people's services at Waltham Forest has left the council after an Ofsted report exposed safeguarding failings.Thu, 04 Aug 2011 13:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117259/council-set-to-close-childrens-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117259/council-set-to-close-childrens-homes.htmlLancashire Council will close two of its children's homes this year, and three more by 2013, under plans to cut costs and reduce the number of teenagers in residential care. Tue, 02 Aug 2011 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117258/gove-and-haringey-refused-appeal-over-shoesmith-sacking.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/02/117258/gove-and-haringey-refused-appeal-over-shoesmith-sacking.htmlThe Supreme Court has refused secretary of state Michael Gove and Haringey Council permission to appeal against the ruling that Sharon Shoesmith was unfairly sacked as director of children's services at Haringey following the Baby P court case. Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/01/117251/social-worker-struck-off-after-exposing-child-to-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/08/01/117251/social-worker-struck-off-after-exposing-child-to-risk.htmlA social worker who failed to act on concerns raised by a child's teacher has been struck off the register in Wales. Mon, 01 Aug 2011 11:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117247/ofsted-failed-to-see-sexual-abuse-at-birmingham-nursery.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117247/ofsted-failed-to-see-sexual-abuse-at-birmingham-nursery.htmlOfsted has apologised for failing to notice sexual abuse going on at a nursery in Birmingham during an inspection visit.Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117246/social-pedagogues-fail-to-improve-outcomes-in-childrens-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/29/117246/social-pedagogues-fail-to-improve-outcomes-in-childrens-homes.htmlEuropean social pedagogues employed in English children's homes as part of a government-funded pilot have failed to achieve better outcomes, an evaluation has found.Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117236/childrens-workers-to-strike-for-a-week-at-pay-cut-council.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/28/117236/childrens-workers-to-strike-for-a-week-at-pay-cut-council.htmlFifty children's social workers in Southampton are to extend their planned strike by six days in protest at the council's proposed pay cuts.Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117231/childrens-commissioner-critical-of-family-justice-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117231/childrens-commissioner-critical-of-family-justice-review.htmlLocal authorities would not be able to employ independent reviewing officers (IROs) if judges were to stop scrutinising care plans for children and young people, according to the children's commissioner. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117228/ofsted-proposes-two-week-long-unannounced-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/27/117228/ofsted-proposes-two-week-long-unannounced-inspections.htmlOfsted inspections of local authority children's services could in future consist of a two-week, on-site, unannounced visit that will include direct observation of interactions with children and families. The new regime will focus more on listening to children. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 10:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/25/117220/mother-who-killed-son-with-bleach-intimidated-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/25/117220/mother-who-killed-son-with-bleach-intimidated-social-workers.htmlSocial workers were repeatedly intimidated by a mother who killed her 12-year-old learning-disabled son by forcing him to drink bleach. However, they could not have predicted his death a serious case review (SCR) has concluded. Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/25/117219/first-tri-borough-childrens-services-director-appointed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/25/117219/first-tri-borough-childrens-services-director-appointed.htmlAndrew Christie has been appointed Britain's first tri-borough director of children's services, with responsibility for a budget of more than £500m. Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117218/scr-social-workers-ignored-adopted-childrens-pleas.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/22/117218/scr-social-workers-ignored-adopted-childrens-pleas.htmlSocial workers and other practitioners were intimidated by a couple who adopted three children and then abused them both physically, emotionally and verbally over 10 years according to the serious case review. Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117212/cuts-will-damage-social-care-service-levels-finance-expert.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117212/cuts-will-damage-social-care-service-levels-finance-expert.htmlSocial care departments will struggle to maintain "decent levels of services" without extra government funding, a finance expert has warned. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117207/removing-assessment-targets-may-hit-child-protection-funding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117207/removing-assessment-targets-may-hit-child-protection-funding.htmlRemoving assessment deadlines will make it more difficult for children's services to secure funding from councils, a former director has warned. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 12:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117209/more-personal-budgets-needed-for-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/21/117209/more-personal-budgets-needed-for-disabled-children.htmlFamilies with disabled children should be offered more personal budgets to ease the transition between children's and adults services, a sector expert told delegates at the CIPFA conference on social care finance today. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117205/social-worker-reinstated-after-child-shut-in-cupboard-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117205/social-worker-reinstated-after-child-shut-in-cupboard-case.htmlA social worker has been cleared of failing to inform police and child protection colleagues that two-year-old Sanam Navsarka had been locked in a cupboard a week before she was murdered. Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117206/one-in-five-children-say-review-meetings-are-pointless.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117206/one-in-five-children-say-review-meetings-are-pointless.htmlMore than one in five children in care say that none or few of the big decisions in their lives are made in review meetings, according to a report from Children's Rights Director Roger Morgan.Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117199/half-of-all-children-in-homes-placed-out-of-area.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/20/117199/half-of-all-children-in-homes-placed-out-of-area.htmlMore than half (55%) of all children placed in residential care are in out-of-area placements, according to new data from the Department for Education. Wed, 20 Jul 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117192/ics-freedoms-undermined-by-data-collection-rules.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117192/ics-freedoms-undermined-by-data-collection-rules.htmlThe freedom to tailor integrated children's systems (ICS) to local needs could be under threat from government proposals on national performance data collection, a leading provider has claimed.Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117193/no-money-for-mps-early-intervention-foundation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/18/117193/no-money-for-mps-early-intervention-foundation.htmlThe government has agreed to launch an early intervention foundation, but says there is no money to do so at the moment.Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117187/second-council-signs-adoption-partnership-deal-with-coram.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/15/117187/second-council-signs-adoption-partnership-deal-with-coram.htmlA second council has followed Harrow's lead in partnering with the charity Coram to improve adoption rates and reduce delays. ...Fri, 15 Jul 2011 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117180/care-applications-continue-to-rise-as-court-delays-continue.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117180/care-applications-continue-to-rise-as-court-delays-continue.htmlBetter identification and assessment of the impact of neglect on children are behind the sustained rise in care applications this year with Cafcass reporting a further 9% increase in cases between April and June compared with the same time last year.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117179/adoption-tsar-martin-narey-answers-his-critics.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117179/adoption-tsar-martin-narey-answers-his-critics.htmlSince Community Care first broke the news that Martin Narey was tipped to become the government's first adoption tsar, our messages boards and emails have barely stopped buzzing.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117175/mps-call-on-cafcass-to-use-more-self-employed-guardians.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117175/mps-call-on-cafcass-to-use-more-self-employed-guardians.htmlMPs have called on Cafcass to use more self-employed guardians and to respect the professionalism of its staff by taking a lighter-touch management style.Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117160/childrens-minister-rejects-key-ideas-from-his-adoption-tsar.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/14/117160/childrens-minister-rejects-key-ideas-from-his-adoption-tsar.htmlChildren’s minister Tim Loughton (pictured) has rejected key recommendations made by his new adoption tsar Martin Narey, saying he disagrees that social workers should spend less time assessing “unsuitable” family and friends carers Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117166/directors-anger-at-government-delay-on-munro-scr-proposal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117166/directors-anger-at-government-delay-on-munro-scr-proposal.htmlDirectors of children's services are angry that the government intends to delay the move to a systems-based approach for serious case reviews (SCRs) recommended by Professor Eileen Munro in her review of child protection in England. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 15:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117162/social-workers-unfairly-targeted-by-family-justice-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117162/social-workers-unfairly-targeted-by-family-justice-review.htmlSocial workers were unfairly singled out by the Family Justice Review in its bid to reduce the number of experts called by courts, a member of the review panel has admitted. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117159/child-protection-assessment-deadlines-to-go-by-end-of-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/13/117159/child-protection-assessment-deadlines-to-go-by-end-of-year.htmlChildren's social workers will no longer be held to prescribed timescales for assessments and the distinction between initial and core assessments will be removed by the end of this year, the government has said in its official response to Eileen Munro's review of child protection. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117157/narey-kinship-care-proposal-could-be-illegal-say-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117157/narey-kinship-care-proposal-could-be-illegal-say-experts.htmlMartin Narey's proposal that social workers should spend less time assessing kinship carers before considering adoption could be illegal, the government has been warned. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 17:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117156/early-intervention-impossible-without-national-measures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117156/early-intervention-impossible-without-national-measures.htmlMore nationally consistent measures of local authority children's services provision must be put in place before departments can implement the payment-by-results (PBR) system recommended by Graham Allen, according to sector experts.Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117151/ministers-plan-more-competition-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/12/117151/ministers-plan-more-competition-for-social-care.htmlThe government plans to open up children's services to competition as part of its Open Public Services White Paper launched today. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/11/117147/age-of-runaway-children-is-falling.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/11/117147/age-of-runaway-children-is-falling.htmlChildren as young as eight are running away from home or care, putting themselves at greater risk of sexual exploitation, a report by The Children's Society has revealed. Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117146/leeds-criticised-for-failing-children-with-special-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117146/leeds-criticised-for-failing-children-with-special-needs.htmlLeeds Council has been criticised for failing in its care of three children with disabilities and special educational needs.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117143/narey-misleading-public-and-alienating-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117143/narey-misleading-public-and-alienating-social-workers.htmlMartin Narey's plans for adoption reform have come under fire from critics who claim the former Barnardo's chief is misleading the public and alienating social workers.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 13:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117141/childrens-commissioner-to-investigate-sexual-exploitation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117141/childrens-commissioner-to-investigate-sexual-exploitation.htmlEngland's children's commissioner, Maggie Atkinson, is to launch an investigation in the autumn into child sexual exploitation.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117140/ofsted-munros-vision-for-inspection-unrealistic.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/08/117140/ofsted-munros-vision-for-inspection-unrealistic.htmlEileen Munro's vision for local authority inspection is unrealistic, according to John Goldup, Ofsted's director of social care (pictured).Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117138/ofsted-to-launch-review-of-local-authority-inspection-process.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117138/ofsted-to-launch-review-of-local-authority-inspection-process.htmlOfsted is to launch a consultation on local authority inspection reform by the end of this month, John Goldup told delegates at the annual Association of Directors of Children's Services conference. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117137/experts-tell-narey-to-order-study-into-adoption-breakdowns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/07/117137/experts-tell-narey-to-order-study-into-adoption-breakdowns.htmlIncoming adoption tsar Martin Narey should ensure the government commissions research into adoption breakdowns before expecting local authorities to increase placements, warn experts, including Family Rights Group chief executive Cathy Ashley (pictured).Thu, 07 Jul 2011 10:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117135/3m-for-childrens-centres-to-trial-payment-by-results.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117135/3m-for-childrens-centres-to-trial-payment-by-results.htmlThe government has made £3m available for up to 30 areas to trial payment by results in children's centres this year. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117133/high-court-rap-for-cafcass-over-bid-to-remove-guardian.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/06/117133/high-court-rap-for-cafcass-over-bid-to-remove-guardian.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass has been reprimanded in the High Court for trying to remove a guardian from a contested care case. Picture: Rex FeaturesWed, 06 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/05/117128/adoption-tsar-narey-wants-social-workers-to-speed-up.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/05/117128/adoption-tsar-narey-wants-social-workers-to-speed-up.htmlSocial workers must make earlier and quicker decisions to "dramatically increase" adoption numbers and ensure fewer break down, the government's first adoption tsar, Martin Narey (pictured), has recommended. Tue, 05 Jul 2011 14:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117125/narey-confirmed-as-governments-new-adoption-tsar.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117125/narey-confirmed-as-governments-new-adoption-tsar.htmlFormer Barnardo's chief Martin Narey will be tasked with encouraging "sceptical" social workers to see adoption as an option for more children in care.Mon, 04 Jul 2011 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117117/allen-1m-for-each-early-intervention-council-needed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117117/allen-1m-for-each-early-intervention-council-needed.htmlEach of the 27 councils that have shown willing to invest more in early intervention services should get £1m initially to help them pilot different ways of contracting for outcomes, Graham Allen's second report on early intervention, published today, has recommended.Mon, 04 Jul 2011 13:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117118/parents-of-disabled-children-cannot-afford-to-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/04/117118/parents-of-disabled-children-cannot-afford-to-work.htmlParents of disabled children cannot afford to work because their childcare costs are so high, according to a survey by the the Every Disabled Child Matters (EDCM) campaign.Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117114/narey-among-runners-to-be-governments-adoption-tsar.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117114/narey-among-runners-to-be-governments-adoption-tsar.htmlThe government is to appoint an adoption tsar, Community Care has learned. Sources say former Barnardo's chief Martin Narey (pictured) is a likely candidate. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117112/local-authorities-cut-childrens-social-care-spend-by-1.8.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117112/local-authorities-cut-childrens-social-care-spend-by-1.8.htmlLocal authorities are cutting spending on children and families social care by 1.8%, according to figures published by the Department for Communities and Local Government. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117110/common-assessment-framework-should-be-scrapped.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117110/common-assessment-framework-should-be-scrapped.htmlThe Common Assessment Framework (CAF) needs to be scrapped according to a director of children's services. ...Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117106/schizophrenia-linked-with-sexual-abuse-in-childhood.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117106/schizophrenia-linked-with-sexual-abuse-in-childhood.htmlChildren who are sexually abused before they are 16 are 10 times more likely to develop schizophrenia in later life, according to research published today.Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117107/government-lagging-behind-councils-on-ics-improvements.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/07/01/117107/government-lagging-behind-councils-on-ics-improvements.htmlLocal authorities are already asking integrated children's system (ICS) providers to implement computer systems in line with Professor Eileen Munro's recommendations for child protection departments. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117097/baby-p-social-workers-given-leave-to-appeal-against-sackings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117097/baby-p-social-workers-given-leave-to-appeal-against-sackings.htmlHaringey Council is "disappointed" that two social workers have been granted leave to appeal against an employment tribunal ruling that upheld their sacking following the death of Baby P, Peter Connelly.Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117089/munro-fears-government-lacks-courage-to-make-changes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117089/munro-fears-government-lacks-courage-to-make-changes.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro fears the government will not have the courage to give local authorities more freedom from government-imposed bureaucracy, as recommended in her review of child protection. Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117095/councils-relieve-pressure-on-childrens-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/30/117095/councils-relieve-pressure-on-childrens-social-workers.htmlCouncils in England are beginning to relieve the pressure on frontline children's social workers despite ongoing high vacancy rates and heavy caseloads, a study has shown.Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117088/warning-over-ethnicity-assumptions-in-child-exploitation-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117088/warning-over-ethnicity-assumptions-in-child-exploitation-cases.htmlA warning against drawing conclusions about the ethnicity of people who sexually exploit children has been sounded by the chief executive of the Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre (Ceop).Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117087/child-protection-staff-miss-sexual-exploitation-signs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/29/117087/child-protection-staff-miss-sexual-exploitation-signs.htmlChild protection professionals are failing to recognise key warning signs of sexual exploitation despite a number of recent high-profile abuse cases, such as the one pictured in Derbyshire, according to a major report out today. The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) study found practitioners are unaware of the risks posed to children and do not have clear strategies in place.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117083/government-rejects-proposal-to-split-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117083/government-rejects-proposal-to-split-ofsted.htmlThe government has vetoed recommendations that Ofsted be split into two separate inspectorates for education and social care. Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117080/charities-early-intervention-grant-must-be-ring-fenced.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/28/117080/charities-early-intervention-grant-must-be-ring-fenced.htmlThe government must ring-fence the Early Intervention Grant or leave some of England's most vulnerable...Tue, 28 Jun 2011 10:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117076/childrens-social-care-workers-to-strike.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/27/117076/childrens-social-care-workers-to-strike.htmlA group of children's social care workers are to go on strike in Southampton this week against council proposals to slash pay for all but the lowest earners. Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117070/all-young-offenders-should-be-given-looked-after-status.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/24/117070/all-young-offenders-should-be-given-looked-after-status.htmlAll young offenders serving a custodial sentence should be given looked-after status, according to the Association of Directors of Children's Services. Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117063/childrens-services-partly-to-blame-over-toddlers-death.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117063/childrens-services-partly-to-blame-over-toddlers-death.htmlWolverhampton children's services failed to intervene in the case of Ryan Lovell-Hancox, who was killed by two carers on Christmas Eve 2008, according to the serious case review (SCR) published today. Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117065/clarke-dashes-hopes-of-youth-justice-board-rescue.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117065/clarke-dashes-hopes-of-youth-justice-board-rescue.htmlThe Youth Justice Board is to be abolished and its responsibilities transferred to the Ministry of Justice, it was confirmed today, ending widespread speculation about its future.Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117061/councils-criticised-for-failing-to-support-foster-carer.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/23/117061/councils-criticised-for-failing-to-support-foster-carer.htmlTwo local authorities have been slammed by the local government ombudsman for failures in their handling of allegations made against a foster carer. Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117059/young-offenders-on-remand-to-be-given-looked-after-status.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117059/young-offenders-on-remand-to-be-given-looked-after-status.htmlAll young offenders who are in prison awaiting trial will be given looked-after status under "radical" sentencing reforms outlined by the government. Wed, 22 Jun 2011 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117057/child-protection-reform-likely-to-be-slowed-by-cost-concerns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/22/117057/child-protection-reform-likely-to-be-slowed-by-cost-concerns.htmlEileen Munro's recommendations for child protection are likely to be phased in gradually due to financial constraints, comments from children's minister Tim Loughton have indicated. Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117053/big-society-could-tackle-abuse-and-neglect-claims-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117053/big-society-could-tackle-abuse-and-neglect-claims-report.htmlDavid Cameron should focus his Big Society agenda on how it can be used to reduce the incidence of abuse and neglect, according to research commissioned by Action for Children. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117052/council-to-shut-its-childrens-homes-by-end-of-the-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/21/117052/council-to-shut-its-childrens-homes-by-end-of-the-year.htmlA council has confirmed it will close all of its children's homes by the end of the year. The formal decision to close the council's six remaining children's homes - one eight-bed home closed several months ago - was taken by the council's cabinet this morning. (picture: Rex) Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117047/sex-offender-misunderstanding-puts-children-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117047/sex-offender-misunderstanding-puts-children-at-risk.htmlChildren are being put at risk because professionals such as the police and social workers assume all child sex offenders are automatically banned from working with children, according to a leading child protection expert. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117045/big-society-bill-raises-budget-concerns-for-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117045/big-society-bill-raises-budget-concerns-for-disabled-children.htmlDisabled children's charities are concerned the government's public services reform white paper might increase pressure to push personal budgets onto families. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117044/courts-let-hundreds-of-sex-offenders-work-with-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/20/117044/courts-let-hundreds-of-sex-offenders-work-with-children.htmlHundreds of convicted child sex offenders were allowed to work with children in Northern Ireland after courts failed to disqualify them, new figures have shown.Mon, 20 Jun 2011 12:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117026/social-workers-could-have-prevented-rape-of-child-says-scr.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/17/117026/social-workers-could-have-prevented-rape-of-child-says-scr.htmlSocial workers could have prevented the rape of a nine-year-old disabled child by another child, according to a serious case review (SCR) published by the Sunderland local safeguarding children board. Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117023/40-of-sexually-exploited-children-are-young-offenders.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117023/40-of-sexually-exploited-children-are-young-offenders.htmlForty per cent of sexually exploited children are also involved in youth offending, a new study has found. The study examined 10 years of data using a sample of 552 sexually exploited children in Derby. (Pictured: cctv footage of children being exploited in Derby in 2009)Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117018/90-of-kinship-care-arrangements-are-informal-finds-study.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/16/117018/90-of-kinship-care-arrangements-are-informal-finds-study.htmlOne in 77 children in the UK are being raised by family members because their parents are unable to care for them, according to children's charity Buttle UK. Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117019/safeguarding-boards-must-do-more-to-combat-sex-exploitation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117019/safeguarding-boards-must-do-more-to-combat-sex-exploitation.htmlThe failure of local safeguarding children boards to secure prosecutions of those engaged in sexually exploiting children and young people is to be researched by the children's charity Barnardo's. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117013/child-protection-to-be-examined-in-revised-health-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117013/child-protection-to-be-examined-in-revised-health-reforms.htmlThe government has promised it will examine how child protection experts in the NHS can be protected from proposed reforms. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117017/social-pedagogy-faces-uphill-battle-in-england-finds-study.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/15/117017/social-pedagogy-faces-uphill-battle-in-england-finds-study.htmlEstablishing social pedagogy in the UK could be an uphill battle according to the final results from one of the first pilots of the European system. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117011/social-work-expert-witnesses-seek-council-top-up-fee.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117011/social-work-expert-witnesses-seek-council-top-up-fee.htmlLocal authorities should split the cost of employing independent social workers with the Legal Services Commission (LSC), according to the Confederation of Independent Social Work Agencies (Ciswa). Tue, 14 Jun 2011 16:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117004/social-workers-should-be-involved-in-health-commissioning.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/14/117004/social-workers-should-be-involved-in-health-commissioning.htmlDavid Cameron has been urged to give social workers a role in health commissioning decisions by experts tasked with revamping the government's NHS bill. He will give his response today. Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/117005/welfare-reform-could-cost-foster-carers-700-per-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/117005/welfare-reform-could-cost-foster-carers-700-per-year.htmlPlans to shake up housing benefits will see foster carers taking a hit of almost £700 a year, according to campaigners, who have warned the move will damage plans to increase the number of foster carers. Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/116968/budget-must-provide-money-for-early-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/116968/budget-must-provide-money-for-early-intervention.htmlNext year's National Budget must include money designated to early intervention in children's services, according to the second instalment of Graham Allen's report on early intervention, due to be published later this month. Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/117003/social-worker-guilty-of-misconduct-in-case-beset-by-delay.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/13/117003/social-worker-guilty-of-misconduct-in-case-beset-by-delay.htmlA social worker who was under investigation for two years following alleged child protection failings has been found guilty of misconduct and received a warning. Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116997/multi-agency-working-needs-advanced-agreement-to-split-costs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116997/multi-agency-working-needs-advanced-agreement-to-split-costs.htmlSocial workers may have to sign contracts with other agencies when agreeing to payment by results-based early intervention servicesFri, 10 Jun 2011 14:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116976/baby-p-social-worker-to-receive-damages-from-the-sun.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/10/116976/baby-p-social-worker-to-receive-damages-from-the-sun.htmlA social worker targeted by The Sun newspaper over her involvement in the Baby P case in Haringey is to be awarded damages by the newspaper, the High Court ruled this morning. Fri, 10 Jun 2011 10:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116979/second-graham-allen-mp-early-intervention-review-revealed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116979/second-graham-allen-mp-early-intervention-review-revealed.htmlGraham Allen's second instalment of his government-commissioned early intervention report has been revealed today. It investigates how early intervention can be funded. Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116977/baby-p-verdict-a-victory-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116977/baby-p-verdict-a-victory-for-social-workers.htmlThe High Court's decision to order The Sun newspaper to award damages to one of the social workers involved in the Baby P case has been hailed a "victory" for social workers. Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116973/charity-highlights-gaps-in-ofsted-adoption-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/09/116973/charity-highlights-gaps-in-ofsted-adoption-inspections.htmlOfsted should be inspecting the quality of social care support provided to families who have adopted a child, according to an adoption expert. Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116963/rethink-on-childrens-home-contract-after-sector-anger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116963/rethink-on-childrens-home-contract-after-sector-anger.htmlChildren may soon be no longer at risk of removal from children's homes with just one day's notice after Community Care highlighted problems with the new children's homes contract. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116958/cameron-unveils-nhs-bill-overhaul-to-allay-criticisms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/08/116958/cameron-unveils-nhs-bill-overhaul-to-allay-criticisms.htmlDavid Cameron has announced an overhaul of the NHS reforms designed to address criticisms that the government's original plans would fragment care, to the detriment of vulnerable groups. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 09:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/07/116956/childrens-homes-urged-to-prove-their-benefits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/07/116956/childrens-homes-urged-to-prove-their-benefits.htmlChildren's homes need to work with commissioners to produce evidence of their cost-effectiveness and the outcomes they achieve for children, according to a child care expert. Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116932/agency-social-workers-to-earn-230-a-day-at-pay-cut-council.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116932/agency-social-workers-to-earn-230-a-day-at-pay-cut-council.htmlSouthampton Council is offering £230 a day to agency social workers while slashing pay for permanent staff by up to 5.5%.Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116928/ncb-appoints-chief-executive-to-succeed-ennals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116928/ncb-appoints-chief-executive-to-succeed-ennals.htmlDr Hilary Emery has been appointed as the new chief executive of the National Children's Bureau (NCB).Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116929/too-few-social-workers-see-children-in-care-alone.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/02/116929/too-few-social-workers-see-children-in-care-alone.htmlMore than one in 10 children in care have never spoken to a social worker or caseworker on their own, according to research published by the children's rights director today.Thu, 02 Jun 2011 12:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116920/plan-to-shut-childrens-homes-prompts-warning-of-crisis.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/06/01/116920/plan-to-shut-childrens-homes-prompts-warning-of-crisis.htmlEssex Council's plans to close its mainstream children's homes have left many nervous about the wider implications for residential child care. Wed, 01 Jun 2011 00:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/31/116914/childrens-worker-suspended-after-staring-at-girls-breasts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/31/116914/childrens-worker-suspended-after-staring-at-girls-breasts.htmlA social worker has been suspended for 12 months for inappropriate behaviour, including staring at a 16-year-old girl's breasts and asking her if she had whips and chains hidden in her wardrobe.Tue, 31 May 2011 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116902/gove-to-appeal-against-shoesmith-decision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116902/gove-to-appeal-against-shoesmith-decision.htmlEducation secretary Michael Gove is to appeal against today's Court of Appeal ruling that Sharon Shoesmith was unfairly sacked as director of children's services at Haringey following the Baby P court case.Fri, 27 May 2011 14:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116900/shoesmith-relieved-after-judge-rules-she-was-scapegoated.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116900/shoesmith-relieved-after-judge-rules-she-was-scapegoated.htmlSharon Shoesmith was "summarily scapegoated" during the media frenzy following the Baby P case judges have ruled.Fri, 27 May 2011 14:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116899/shoesmith-likely-to-get-1m-compensation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116899/shoesmith-likely-to-get-1m-compensation.htmlSacked children's services director Sharon Shoesmith is likely to receive compensation of about £1m, according to employment law experts.Fri, 27 May 2011 13:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116898/shoesmith-wins-appeal-and-likely-to-get-1m-compensation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/27/116898/shoesmith-wins-appeal-and-likely-to-get-1m-compensation.htmlSharon Shoesmith, the director of Haringey's children's services at the time of the Baby P case, was sacked unfairly by education secretary Ed Balls and the council, the Court of Appeal has ruled.Fri, 27 May 2011 11:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116896/failure-to-hold-scr-over-boys-death-undermines-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116896/failure-to-hold-scr-over-boys-death-undermines-child-protection.htmlNewham's local safeguarding children board is seriously undermining the social work profession by failing to conduct a serious case review about the suspicious death of a child, according to the Victoria Climbié Foundation (VCF). Thu, 26 May 2011 16:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116893/further-health-bill-delay-risks-confusion-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116893/further-health-bill-delay-risks-confusion-for-social-workers.htmlThe government's health legislation faces being further delayed until the autumn risking confusion for social workers re-registering next year if it puts back the abolition of the General Social Care Council. Thu, 26 May 2011 15:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116894/unison-warning-over-funding-cuts-for-child-asylum-seekers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116894/unison-warning-over-funding-cuts-for-child-asylum-seekers.htmlThe UK Border Agency has been urged not to cut the money it gives to councils for supporting child asylum seekers, amid fears that a two-tier system of care will develop. Thu, 26 May 2011 14:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116889/one-third-of-councils-have-no-childrens-director.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116889/one-third-of-councils-have-no-childrens-director.htmlOne-third of local authorities have no director of children's services (DCS) or are planning to change the role, according to research published today.Thu, 26 May 2011 10:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116880/child-sex-crime-reported-every-20-minutes-says-nspcc.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116880/child-sex-crime-reported-every-20-minutes-says-nspcc.htmlPolice in England and Wales recorded a child sex crime every 20 minutes last year, according to NSPCC research published today. Thu, 26 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116888/social-workers-cut-links-with-jailed-looked-after-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/26/116888/social-workers-cut-links-with-jailed-looked-after-children.htmlSocial workers try to sever contact with looked-after children in custody, according to many prison safeguarding teams.Thu, 26 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116879/council-seeks-to-close-down-its-children-homes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116879/council-seeks-to-close-down-its-children-homes.htmlEXCLUSIVE: A council that recently won praise for piloting social pedagogy is set to close all its children's homes under a controversial proposal to be considered at a cabinet meeting next month, Community Care has learned. Wed, 25 May 2011 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116876/ceop-takes-lead-on-missing-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/25/116876/ceop-takes-lead-on-missing-children.htmlThe Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre (CEOP) has today clarified its role in leading and co-ordinating efforts to find missing children. Wed, 25 May 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116866/two-week-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116866/two-week-notice-on-adoption-inspections-mooted.htmlNotice periods for adoption and fostering inspections could be cut from two months to two weeks under changes being considered by Ofsted.Mon, 23 May 2011 16:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116863/adcs-private-law-safeguarding-changes-will-increase-workload.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/23/116863/adcs-private-law-safeguarding-changes-will-increase-workload.htmlReferrals to children's services could soar if private law changes being considered by the Family Justice Review are implemented, the Association of Directors of Children's Services president, Matt Dunkley (pictured), has warned.Mon, 23 May 2011 15:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116858/adcs-all-expert-witnesses-should-be-accredited.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116858/adcs-all-expert-witnesses-should-be-accredited.htmlExperts giving evidence in family court cases should be accredited and registered on a central database, according to the Association of Directors of Children's Services.Fri, 20 May 2011 16:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116856/munro-proposals-adcs-urged-to-get-on-with-it.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116856/munro-proposals-adcs-urged-to-get-on-with-it.htmlThe Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) needs to move forward quickly with Eileen Munro's child protection recommendations regardless of government approval, according to a senior figure at BASW - The College of Social Work.Fri, 20 May 2011 14:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116854/simpler-integrated-childrens-system-being-developed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116854/simpler-integrated-childrens-system-being-developed.htmlA simple integrated children's system (ICS) is being developed that eliminates the need for "cutting and pasting", Community Care has learned.Fri, 20 May 2011 14:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116839/historic-agreement-for-single-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116839/historic-agreement-for-single-uk-college-of-social-work.htmlThe College of Social Work and their counterparts at BASW - the College of Social Work have agreed to work together to merge into a single, UK-wide organisation. Fran Fuller, chair of BASW, (pictured) said the agreement was in the "best interests of the profession". Fri, 20 May 2011 12:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116850/scots-social-workers-failing-to-focus-on-long-term-stability.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/20/116850/scots-social-workers-failing-to-focus-on-long-term-stability.htmlScotland's social workers are failing to ensure the swift transfer of children in care to long-term placements, according to the Holyrood government's chief social work adviser, writes Jackie Cosh.Fri, 20 May 2011 12:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116842/council-chief-moots-national-parenting-support-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116842/council-chief-moots-national-parenting-support-scheme.htmlChildren’s social services should develop a national policy framework for parent support, according to the chief executive of Newham Council. Thu, 19 May 2011 16:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116843/privately-fostered-children-face-increased-risk-of-sexual-exploitation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116843/privately-fostered-children-face-increased-risk-of-sexual-exploitation.htmlChildren in care or who are being privately fostered face an increased risk of being sexually exploited, according to child protection experts. Thu, 19 May 2011 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116840/fees-cap-deters-independent-social-workers-as-expert-witnesses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116840/fees-cap-deters-independent-social-workers-as-expert-witnesses.htmlIndependent social workers have been refusing to appear as expert witnesses in family court cases since the Legal Services Commission capped their fees, Community Care has learned. Alison Paddle (pictured), an independent social worker and former chair of Nagalro which represents guardians and ISWs, said the new fees made it "scarcely affordable" for them to provide the advice. Thu, 19 May 2011 11:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116834/drugs-court-approach-sees-fewer-children-taken-into-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/19/116834/drugs-court-approach-sees-fewer-children-taken-into-care.htmlParents with substance misuse problems are less likely to have their children taken into care if they have been through the Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC), an independent evaluation has found.Thu, 19 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116824/social-worker-of-the-year-2011-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/18/116824/social-worker-of-the-year-2011-launched.htmlPractitioners throughout the UK will be able to celebrate their achievements by entering the revamped Social Worker of the Year Awards, to be launched at Community Care Live today. Wed, 18 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116823/analysis-are-munros-social-work-reforms-affordable.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116823/analysis-are-munros-social-work-reforms-affordable.htmlCherry-picking parts of her final review of child protection would not produce the changes needed, Professor Eileen Munro has warned. The question now is how realistic it is to implement those recommendations in full at a time of massive public sector cuts. Tue, 17 May 2011 13:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116830/teather-downbeat-over-green-paper-plan-for-joint-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116830/teather-downbeat-over-green-paper-plan-for-joint-working.htmlChildren's and families minister Sarah Teather has admitted that it will be difficult to achieve the joint working needed to make the government's Green Paper proposals on children with disabilities a reality.Tue, 17 May 2011 13:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116826/integrated-childrens-systems-can-be-overhauled-cheaply.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/17/116826/integrated-childrens-systems-can-be-overhauled-cheaply.htmlAn expert says Professor Eileen Munro's call for local authorities to overhaul their integrated children's systems can be achieved cheaply.Tue, 17 May 2011 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116821/engage-local-churches-to-combat-witchcraft-abuse-says-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116821/engage-local-churches-to-combat-witchcraft-abuse-says-report.htmlLocal safeguarding boards should map all churches which operate in their area as a means of combating the child abuse associated with some witchcraft and spirit possession beliefs according to a new report. Mon, 16 May 2011 11:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116817/lack-of-foster-carers-leaves-teenagers-at-back-of-queue.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/16/116817/lack-of-foster-carers-leaves-teenagers-at-back-of-queue.htmlVulnerable teenagers are suffering because of a national shortage of suitable foster families, according to a survey by the Fostering Network. Mon, 16 May 2011 09:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116812/former-barnardos-chief-to-review-kents-adoption-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116812/former-barnardos-chief-to-review-kents-adoption-services.htmlFormer Barnardo's chief Martin Narey is to review Kent Council's adoption services, it was announced today.Fri, 13 May 2011 12:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116810/murdered-girl-failed-by-social-services-due-to-high-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/13/116810/murdered-girl-failed-by-social-services-due-to-high-thresholds.html Tia Rigg, a 12-year-old murdered in Manchester, was failed by Salford social services in part because child protection thresholds in the council were too high, according to a serious case review. Tia was 12 when John Madon, 38, brought her to his home on the pretence of wanting her to babysit his daughter. Madon killed Tia and then phoned police to tell them he had done so. Tia had been the subject of a child protection plan in a number of local authorities and had suffered abuse and neglect. "There were indications throughout this SCR that thresholds for robust child protection interventions were too high and that decision-making about levels of risk was poor," the report said. The case exhibited a number of similar issues that have also emerged from Community Care's survey of frontline workers about child protection thresholds. In the survey social workers warned they are being forced by managers to take high risk decisions about children at significant risk of harm because...Fri, 13 May 2011 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116808/yjb-chief-to-lead-specialist-youth-justice-unit-in-moj.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116808/yjb-chief-to-lead-specialist-youth-justice-unit-in-moj.htmlYouth Justice Board chief John Drew is to lead a specialist youth justice unit in the Ministry of Justice, Community Care has learned.Thu, 12 May 2011 16:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116803/youth-justice-board-to-fund-social-worker-posts-at-yois.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116803/youth-justice-board-to-fund-social-worker-posts-at-yois.htmlThe Youth Justice Board is to fund social worker posts in young offender institutions (YOIs), it has been confirmed. Thu, 12 May 2011 14:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116781/munro-recommends-scrapping-initial-and-core-assessments.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116781/munro-recommends-scrapping-initial-and-core-assessments.htmlInitial and core assessments, and their respective legal timescales, should be ditched in favour of a single ongoing assessment that sets out the decisions that need to be made by a social worker, the Munro review has recommended. Thu, 12 May 2011 11:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116790/childrens-services-should-manage-asbos-report-says.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116790/childrens-services-should-manage-asbos-report-says.htmlAnti-social behaviour services for under-18s should be managed by children's services departments, according to a report launched in parliament today by the Prison Reform Trust.Thu, 12 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116792/social-care-in-north-hit-hardest-by-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/12/116792/social-care-in-north-hit-hardest-by-cuts.htmlA geographical divide has opened up in English adult social care spending with huge cuts in the north but budgets continuing to expand in the south.Thu, 12 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116791/munro-dont-replace-contactpoint.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116791/munro-dont-replace-contactpoint.htmlChild protection departments should provide a 24-hour service for other agencies and professionals needing information about vulnerable children, according to Professor Eileen Munro's final report on child protection.Wed, 11 May 2011 16:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116771/munro-backs-creation-of-chief-social-worker.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116771/munro-backs-creation-of-chief-social-worker.htmlEach council will have a chief child protection social worker if a key recommendation from Eileen Munro’s final report is taken up by the government. She has also recommended that a national chief social worker is created. Wed, 11 May 2011 14:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116789/government-in-no-hurry-to-respond-to-munro.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116789/government-in-no-hurry-to-respond-to-munro.htmlThe government will not respond to Eileen Munro's final report on child protection until "later this year", according to children's minister Tim Loughton.Wed, 11 May 2011 13:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116785/government-backs-munro-plan-for-chief-social-worker-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/11/116785/government-backs-munro-plan-for-chief-social-worker-role.htmlThe government has backed "in principle" the appointment of a chief social worker to provide leadership across the whole profession.Wed, 11 May 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116784/social-workers-should-speak-directly-to-media-says-munro.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116784/social-workers-should-speak-directly-to-media-says-munro.htmlSocial workers should speak directly to journalists more often to try and improve the media coverage of child protection social work, the Munro Review has recommended.Tue, 10 May 2011 21:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116783/munro-calls-for-dcs-role-to-be-protected.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116783/munro-calls-for-dcs-role-to-be-protected.htmlThe Munro review has called on the government to protect the role of the director of children’s services and criticised moves by some councils to either split children’s services from education or to combine children and adult’s services.Tue, 10 May 2011 20:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116776/munro-backs-multi-agency-inspection-teams.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116776/munro-backs-multi-agency-inspection-teams.htmlMulti-agency inspection teams should be used to evaluate child protection services, according to the Munro review. Tue, 10 May 2011 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116775/munro-says-nqsws-unprepared-for-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116775/munro-says-nqsws-unprepared-for-child-protection.htmlNewly qualified social workers are particularly unprepared to deal with the challenges posed by child protection work. Extra training for all children's social workers should be a priority for spending, the Munro Review has recommended.Tue, 10 May 2011 15:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116774/munro-early-intervention-legal-duty-for-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116774/munro-early-intervention-legal-duty-for-councils.htmlCouncils should legally have to provide early intervention services to families according to Professor Eileen Munro's (pictured) review of child protection in England.Tue, 10 May 2011 14:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116773/college-chief-social-worker-must-cover-adults-and-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116773/college-chief-social-worker-must-cover-adults-and-children.htmlThe proposed chief social worker post for England should cover adults' as well as children's services, the College of Social Work said in its response to Eileen Munro's report on child protection.Tue, 10 May 2011 12:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116762/majority-of-uk-families-at-risk-of-crisis.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/10/116762/majority-of-uk-families-at-risk-of-crisis.htmlMore than 80% of families in the UK are at risk of crisis, according to the charity 4Children. Tue, 10 May 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116770/ceop-merger-to-go-ahead-with-some-concessions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116770/ceop-merger-to-go-ahead-with-some-concessions.htmlPlans to merge the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) into the new National Crime Agency will go ahead, the Home Office has confirmed, but it will now keep its own budget and governance structure.Mon, 09 May 2011 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116769/childrens-early-progress-in-foster-placements-needs-sustaining.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116769/childrens-early-progress-in-foster-placements-needs-sustaining.htmlFostered children make the most significant progress during the first nine months of their placement, according to research published today by The Adolescent and Children's Trust. Mon, 09 May 2011 15:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116758/asbo-reforms-could-put-children-at-risk-warns-barnardos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/09/116758/asbo-reforms-could-put-children-at-risk-warns-barnardos.htmlGovernment proposals to give police powers to take children suspected of anti-social behaviour back to their homes could put children at risk, children's charity Barnardo's has warned. Mon, 09 May 2011 09:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116759/elections-set-to-increase-social-care-differences-within-uk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/06/116759/elections-set-to-increase-social-care-differences-within-uk.htmlThe regional election results could exacerbate increasing health and social care policy differences between England, Scotland and Wales, a social care policy expert has warned. Fri, 06 May 2011 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/05/116753/suffolk-outsourcing-plans-put-on-hold-due-to-public-outcry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/05/116753/suffolk-outsourcing-plans-put-on-hold-due-to-public-outcry.htmlRadical privatisation plans which would have seen child protection outsourced for the first time have been put on hold due to immense public opposition in Suffolk. (pic Rod Edwards/Alamy) Thu, 05 May 2011 13:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116747/younger-children-better-protected-than-teens-from-violence.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116747/younger-children-better-protected-than-teens-from-violence.htmlAttempts to protect teenagers from violence have been unsuccessful compared to efforts to protect younger children, according to researchers at the University of Warwick. (pic: Rex Features) Wed, 04 May 2011 23:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116745/councils-shun-social-work-practice-pilots.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116745/councils-shun-social-work-practice-pilots.htmlGovernment attempts to roll out GP-style social work practices under the Big Society banner have come under fire after four authorities pulled out of a pilot scheme, citing a lack of funding. (pic: Rex Features) Wed, 04 May 2011 10:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116737/sharp-fall-in-number-of-serious-case-reviews-carried-out.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/04/116737/sharp-fall-in-number-of-serious-case-reviews-carried-out.htmlCost, the difficulties around anonymity and the prospect of the Munro Review changing the system have prompted a fall in the number of serious case reviews being carried out, according to sector experts. Professor Ray Jones (pictured), independent chair of Bristol's Safeguarding Children's Board, said he felt the move to publish serious case reviews in full was the single biggest issue causing the fall. Wed, 04 May 2011 09:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116744/ofsted-changes-will-ease-inspection-burden-on-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/05/03/116744/ofsted-changes-will-ease-inspection-burden-on-councils.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Ofsted's new...Tue, 03 May 2011 15:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/27/116731/scottish-parties-fight-for-carers-votes.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/27/116731/scottish-parties-fight-for-carers-votes.htmlScotland's political parties are vying for the votes of carers by presenting manifestos targeted at them. Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116725/loughton-courts-should-ask-for-more-foster-carer-evidence.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116725/loughton-courts-should-ask-for-more-foster-carer-evidence.htmlFoster carers should be called more often as expert witnesses on family court care applications, children's minister Tim Loughton has said.Tue, 26 Apr 2011 16:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116724/ministers-likely-to-accept-cafcass-move-to-justice-ministry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/26/116724/ministers-likely-to-accept-cafcass-move-to-justice-ministry.htmlThe government is likely to accept proposals that Cafcass should come under the control of the Ministry of Justice as part of a family justice service.Tue, 26 Apr 2011 16:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116718/hospital-admissions-reflect-rise-in-child-protection-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116718/hospital-admissions-reflect-rise-in-child-protection-thresholds.htmlExperts have warned that markers such as hospital admissions could already be showing the impact of rising child protection thresholds.Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116715/cuts-leave-homelessness-schemes-more-reliant-on-volunteers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116715/cuts-leave-homelessness-schemes-more-reliant-on-volunteers.html Funding cuts are forcing homelessness projects to cut bed numbers and rely more on volunteers and part-time staff, research finds today. The annual...Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116713/nspcc-records-largest-ever-increase-in-referrals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/21/116713/nspcc-records-largest-ever-increase-in-referrals.htmlReports of child abuse to the NSPCC rose by 37% in the 12 months to March, the charity has said. Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116714/one-year-suspension-follows-welfare-failures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116714/one-year-suspension-follows-welfare-failures.htmlA social worker who admitted a series of failures relating to the welfare of children has been suspended from the register for a year.Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116711/government-study-reveals-age-and-ethnic-divisions-in-adoption.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116711/government-study-reveals-age-and-ethnic-divisions-in-adoption.htmlThe number of looked-after children left in limbo as their adoption plans fall through has been revealed for the first time by the Department for Education.Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116712/childrens-mental-health-service-cuts-a-false-economy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116712/childrens-mental-health-service-cuts-a-false-economy.htmlFailure to invest in preventive child mental health services is a false economy, a government-commissioned report has found - at a time the coalition is being blamed for cuts in the sector.Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116707/domestic-violence-cuts-put-200000-children-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/20/116707/domestic-violence-cuts-put-200000-children-at-risk.htmlBudget cuts could leave up to 200,000 child victims of domestic violence at risk of long-term mental health problems and some at risk of death, sector leaders have warned.Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/19/116706/social-workers-urged-to-team-up-to-resist-threshold-rises.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/19/116706/social-workers-urged-to-team-up-to-resist-threshold-rises.htmlChildren's social workers have been urged to blow the whistle on rising child protection thresholds in teams rather than individually. Leading the call is BASW – The College of Social Work, whose professional officer, Nushra Mansuri (pictured), raised the prospect of professionals breaching their code of conduct if they caved in to management pressure.Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116704/child-protection-thresholds-could-spark-legal-challenges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116704/child-protection-thresholds-could-spark-legal-challenges.htmlCouncils that knowingly leave children in abusive situations leave themselves open to expensive legal challenges, say lawyers, including Ed Mitchell (pictured)Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116703/councils-accused-of-imposing-adoption-age-limit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116703/councils-accused-of-imposing-adoption-age-limit.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has claimed some local authorities are operating an "informal age limit" on adoptions. Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116700/teen-domestic-violence-not-child-abuse-say-police-chiefs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/18/116700/teen-domestic-violence-not-child-abuse-say-police-chiefs.htmlTeenage girls suffering domestic violence should receive adult victim support rather than child protection services, according to the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO).Mon, 18 Apr 2011 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/17/116698/ofsted-should-be-split-in-two-say-mps.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/17/116698/ofsted-should-be-split-in-two-say-mps.htmlOfsted should be split into two inspectorates, separately overseeing children's social care and education, to reduce the scope for social care being sidelined, MPs have recommended. Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116689/lack-of-social-workers-sees-use-of-unqualified-staff-rise.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116689/lack-of-social-workers-sees-use-of-unqualified-staff-rise.htmlEmployers are blaming the trend of allocating increasingly complex cases to unqualified staff on the national shortage of social workers. Debbie Jones (pictured), vice president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services, said councils were struggling to balance their responsibilities to service users and staff because of a lack of resources. Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116684/one-in-nine-teenagers-sexually-groomed-in-northern-ireland.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/15/116684/one-in-nine-teenagers-sexually-groomed-in-northern-ireland.htmlOne in nine teenagers in Northern Ireland have been sexually groomed by an adult, according to research published today. Fri, 15 Apr 2011 10:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116681/councils-face-high-court-challenges-over-short-breaks-duty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116681/councils-face-high-court-challenges-over-short-breaks-duty.htmlTwo councils in northern England are facing High Court challenges after withdrawing funding for services that provide short breaks for disabled children.Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116661/cuts-causing-child-abuse-to-be-downgraded-say-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116661/cuts-causing-child-abuse-to-be-downgraded-say-social-workers.htmlSocial workers are effectively being pressurised to ignore child abuse as a result of budget cuts, an exclusive Community Care survey has revealed. The poll of 170 frontline workers found that 58% believed pressure had been placed on them to reclassify child protection cases as less serious child-in-need cases. Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116676/lga-urges-talks-with-lansley-to-ensure-gps-help-vulnerable.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/14/116676/lga-urges-talks-with-lansley-to-ensure-gps-help-vulnerable.htmlCouncil leaders have called for face-to-face talks with health secretary Andrew Lansley to answer local authority concerns about his NHS reforms and ensure they do not fail vulnerable groups. Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116673/social-work-assistants-asked-to-take-complex-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116673/social-work-assistants-asked-to-take-complex-cases.htmlSocial work assistants are being asked to take on more complex cases because of the cuts hitting councils, interim findings of a survey have suggested. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116672/teenage-girls-at-highest-risk-of-domestic-violence.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116672/teenage-girls-at-highest-risk-of-domestic-violence.htmlTeenage girls are the most at risk of domestic abuse of any age group, according to the British Crime Survey. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 11:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116668/government-says-child-social-workers-must-blow-the-whistle.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116668/government-says-child-social-workers-must-blow-the-whistle.htmlThe Department for Education has urged social workers to blow the whistle on local authorities that prevent professionals from protecting children. Wed, 13 Apr 2011 09:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116662/social-workers-speak-out-over-child-protection-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/13/116662/social-workers-speak-out-over-child-protection-cuts.html"We were told by a senior manager that our area has too many child protection cases and that it was above national average, so all cases had to be examined and downgraded." Wed, 13 Apr 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116663/caf-can-save-councils-more-than-150000-per-child.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116663/caf-can-save-councils-more-than-150000-per-child.htmlThe Common Assessment Framework (CAF) can save councils more than £150,000 in some cases, research has found.Tue, 12 Apr 2011 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116657/charities-slam-dearth-of-adoption-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/12/116657/charities-slam-dearth-of-adoption-support.htmlAdoption charities have hit out at the government for failing to fund and resource adoption support, which they claim is "conspicuous by its absence" from the political agenda. Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/11/116654/social-work-guru-le-grand-rejects-payment-by-results.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/11/116654/social-work-guru-le-grand-rejects-payment-by-results.htmlPolicy guru Julian Le Grand has said social work is not ready for a bonus culture of payment by outcomes, in an admission that has delighted employee bodies. Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116650/childrens-home-contract-could-be-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116650/childrens-home-contract-could-be-illegal.htmlA national contract for children's homes which permits local authorities to terminate placements with just one day's notice could be illegal, Community Care understands.Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116647/government-reviews-director-of-childrens-services-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116647/government-reviews-director-of-childrens-services-role.htmlThe government is reviewing the current statutory guidance which makes directors of children's services and lead members accountable for the protection of children in their area. Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116644/protests-against-cuts-to-services-for-child-asylum-seekers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/08/116644/protests-against-cuts-to-services-for-child-asylum-seekers.htmlSocial care workers are today protesting against 'racist government cuts' to services supporting child asylum seekers. Fri, 08 Apr 2011 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/07/116637/loughton-social-workers-in-tough-cases-must-be-debriefed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/07/116637/loughton-social-workers-in-tough-cases-must-be-debriefed.htmlEmployers must "debrief" social workers after particularly traumatic child protection cases to avoid burnout, children's minister Tim Loughton has said.Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116631/government-launches-listening-panel-to-save-nhs-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116631/government-launches-listening-panel-to-save-nhs-reforms.htmlFormer Royal College of GPs chair Steve Field will head a new panel to consider objections to the NHS reforms as the government tries to win over critics.Wed, 06 Apr 2011 14:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116630/anger-over-removal-clause-in-new-childrens-homes-contract.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/06/116630/anger-over-removal-clause-in-new-childrens-homes-contract.htmlCouncils will be able to remove children from residential placements with just one day's notice, under a controversial new clause in the national children's homes contract. Wed, 06 Apr 2011 13:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116626/disability-living-allowance-changes-will-not-affect-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116626/disability-living-allowance-changes-will-not-affect-children.htmlThe disability living allowance (DLA) for under-16s will not be replaced by personal independent payments (PIPs), the government has confirmed in its response to the consultation into reform of the benefit.Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116625/council-creates-15-frontline-advanced-professional-posts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116625/council-creates-15-frontline-advanced-professional-posts.htmlDevon Council is launching an advanced professional role to keep the most experienced children's social workers on the frontline. Tue, 05 Apr 2011 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116621/new-adcs-head-wants-a-transparent-debate-over-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116621/new-adcs-head-wants-a-transparent-debate-over-cuts.htmlMatt Dunkley (pictured), the incoming president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services, says his job is not to oppose government cuts but to give a professional view of their consequences.Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116619/nhs-reforms-will-harm-joint-working-say-directors.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116619/nhs-reforms-will-harm-joint-working-say-directors.htmlHealth secretary Andrew Lansley's NHS reforms risk damaging joint working between health and social care, failing vulnerable children and an accountability deficit, social services directors have warned.Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116620/new-adcs-president-wants-more-radical-solutions-to-sen.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/05/116620/new-adcs-president-wants-more-radical-solutions-to-sen.htmlThe new president of the Association of Director’s of Children’s Services has set out his ambition to help make the green paper on disabiilty and special educational needs "more radical".Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116615/family-justice-review-urges-abolition-of-court-fees.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116615/family-justice-review-urges-abolition-of-court-fees.htmlCouncils will no longer have to stump up hefty court fees when making care orders if proposals put forward by the family justice review are accepted by government.Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116611/family-justice-review-under-fire-over-plan-to-cut-scrutiny.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116611/family-justice-review-under-fire-over-plan-to-cut-scrutiny.htmlMoves to stop judges scrutinising local authority care plans, outlined by the Family Justice Review, have been described as "dangerous" and "backward" by Family Rights Group head Cathy Ashley (pictured).Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116610/two-thirds-of-childrens-charities-expect-staff-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116610/two-thirds-of-childrens-charities-expect-staff-cuts.htmlTwo-thirds of children's charities are awaiting funding decisions from local authorities for 2011-12, with many staff remaining on notices of redundancy in anticipation of possible service cuts. Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116609/miliband-urges-cameron-to-ditch-reckless-nhs-overhaul.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/04/116609/miliband-urges-cameron-to-ditch-reckless-nhs-overhaul.htmlLabour leader Ed Miliband has urged the government to withdraw its "reckless" NHS reforms amid speculation that ministers will offer concessions to allay concerns. Mon, 04 Apr 2011 10:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116600/college-of-social-work-critical-of-proposed-cafcass-move.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116600/college-of-social-work-critical-of-proposed-cafcass-move.htmlProposals to integrate family courts body Cafcass into a new family justice service have sparked concerns from the College of Social Work, headed up by Maurice Bates and Corinne May-Chahal (pictured)Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116598/councils-may-face-court-battles-over-short-breaks-duty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116598/councils-may-face-court-battles-over-short-breaks-duty.htmlBudget cuts of up to 15% to services for disabled children could leave some councils open to legal challenges over the duty to provide short breaks, according to campaign group Every Disabled Child Matters.Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116597/care-worker-struck-off-over-relationship-with-15-year-old.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116597/care-worker-struck-off-over-relationship-with-15-year-old.htmlA residential child care worker who formed an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old boy in her care has been struck off the register in Scotland.Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116593/council-recruits-uks-first-social-work-dog.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116593/council-recruits-uks-first-social-work-dog.htmlA council has recruited the UK’s first social work dog. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116592/adult-and-children-services-are-most-protected-by-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/04/01/116592/adult-and-children-services-are-most-protected-by-councils.htmlMost councils say they are protecting children's and adults' services above all other services in the face of the 2011-12 budget cuts, a Local Government Association survey has shown. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116591/cafcass-must-align-more-closely-with-munro-say-guardians.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116591/cafcass-must-align-more-closely-with-munro-say-guardians.htmlThe Family Justice Review must alter the role of Cafcass to get the family courts body in line with Eileen Munro's review of child protection, according to the guardians' professional body Nagalro. Thu, 31 Mar 2011 20:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116583/shocking-family-justice-system-needs-radical-revamp.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116583/shocking-family-justice-system-needs-radical-revamp.htmlA national family justice board should be established to spearhead the fight against "shocking" delays and inefficiency in the English and Welsh justice system, an independent review has recommended. Family Justice Review chair David Norgrove (pictured) said the existing system was too complicated, with overlapping structures and a lack of shared goals and objectives.Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116581/children-who-feel-unsafe-shun-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116581/children-who-feel-unsafe-shun-social-workers.htmlLess than half of children receiving social care support in England would go to their social worker for help if they felt unsafe, research has revealed. Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116569/munro-urged-to-make-child-development-key-to-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116569/munro-urged-to-make-child-development-key-to-training.htmlChild development should be incorporated as a key element in social worker training to give professionals a fuller understanding of children's emotional needs and family dynamics, England's children's commissioner has recommended.Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116568/cafcass-faces-shake-up-but-review-rules-out-abolition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/31/116568/cafcass-faces-shake-up-but-review-rules-out-abolition.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass will be reformed but not abolished if recommendations made today by the Family Justice Review are accepted by the government, Community Care understands. The news will be welcomed by Cafcass chief executive Anthony Douglas (pictured), who insisted that the body was "fit for purpose". Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116574/budgets-and-staff-slashed-at-ncb-as-ennals-prepares-to-leave.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116574/budgets-and-staff-slashed-at-ncb-as-ennals-prepares-to-leave.htmlThe National Children's Bureau will see its funding nearly halved and staff drop by 40%, outgoing chief executive Paul Ennals (pictured) has revealed.Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116577/anger-over-axeing-of-female-genital-mutilation-post.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/30/116577/anger-over-axeing-of-female-genital-mutilation-post.htmlThe government's commitment to tackling female genital mutilation has been questioned after it abolished the role of FGM co-ordinator. Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116557/5m-plan-to-divert-mental-health-clients-from-prison.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116557/5m-plan-to-divert-mental-health-clients-from-prison.htmlHealth secretary Andrew Lansley and justice secretary Ken Clarke (pictured) have launched a pilot £5m programme to help divert offenders with mental health problems away from prison. Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116564/44m-boost-for-childrens-social-work-teams-in-england.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116564/44m-boost-for-childrens-social-work-teams-in-england.htmlChildren's social work teams across England will receive £44m in 2011-12 to help reduce pressure on frontline staff, children's secretary Michael Gove has announced. Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116561/judges-say-they-are-ill-prepared-for-care-proceedings-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116561/judges-say-they-are-ill-prepared-for-care-proceedings-cases.htmlJudges are not sufficiently prepared to make decisions in care proceedings cases, according to a study from the University of Bristol, published today.Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116558/proposal-to-scrap-youth-justice-board-voted-down-by-peers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116558/proposal-to-scrap-youth-justice-board-voted-down-by-peers.htmlThe House of Lords yesterday rejected the scrapping of the Youth Justice Board after peers backed an amendment to the Public Bodies Bill calling for the body to be removed from the so called 'bonfire of the quangos'. Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116559/children-in-care-prioritised-to-receive-education-bursaries.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/29/116559/children-in-care-prioritised-to-receive-education-bursaries.html The government has prioritised children in care, care leavers and vulnerable teenagers in a bursary scheme that will replace the educational maintenance...Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116551/ennals-to-stand-down-as-ncb-chief-executive.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116551/ennals-to-stand-down-as-ncb-chief-executive.html Sir Paul Ennals (pictured), chief executive of the National Children's Bureau, will quit his role in autumn it was announced today. ...Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116545/data-lacking-on-teens-and-toddlers-survey-reveals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/28/116545/data-lacking-on-teens-and-toddlers-survey-reveals.htmlThere are gaps in the data available about children before they start formal education and as they enter their teenage years, a survey of children's services staff has revealed Mon, 28 Mar 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/25/116540/mps-told-cafcass-is-beyond-reform-and-must-be-abolished.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/25/116540/mps-told-cafcass-is-beyond-reform-and-must-be-abolished.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass is now beyond reform and should be abolished, a committee of MPs was told this week by an alliance of family and children's organisations, blaming Cafcass's 'top heavy' management structuresFri, 25 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116532/consultation-could-help-bid-to-outsource-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/24/116532/consultation-could-help-bid-to-outsource-child-protection.htmlSuffolk Council has admitted the re-evaluation of local authority statutory duties could help it outsource nearly all its public services, including child protection.Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116529/government-toughens-stance-on-child-trafficking.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116529/government-toughens-stance-on-child-trafficking.htmlThe government has strengthened the UK's response to child trafficking by deciding to opt into a European directive on human trafficking, the Home Office announced yesterday. Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116524/budget-boosts-big-society-but-no-let-up-in-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116524/budget-boosts-big-society-but-no-let-up-in-cuts.htmlChancellor George Osborne's Budget today boosted the Big Society, but there were no new duties on alcohol and no let up in the government's programme of cuts.Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116520/osborne-to-launch-savings-accounts-for-children-in-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/23/116520/osborne-to-launch-savings-accounts-for-children-in-care.htmlChildren in care are to gain tax-free savings accounts, chancellor George Osborne announced ahead of today's budget. Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/21/116514/bid-to-make-foster-carers-undergo-drugalcohol-hair-tests.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/21/116514/bid-to-make-foster-carers-undergo-drugalcohol-hair-tests.htmlOne of the UK's leading drug and alcohol hair testing firms is pressing the government to make the tests mandatory for all foster carers, Community Care has learned. Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/19/116499/social-care-outsourcing-drive-bad-for-users-and-staff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/19/116499/social-care-outsourcing-drive-bad-for-users-and-staff.htmlThe government's drive to outsource social care and other public services risks damaging service quality, weakening accountability and harming working conditions, a report has said. Sat, 19 Mar 2011 00:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116497/sibling-carers-are-being-failed-by-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116497/sibling-carers-are-being-failed-by-councils.htmlSibling carers are being failed by social services, according to a report by the Family Rights Group. Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116496/foster-carers-to-become-pushy-parents-under-new-charter.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/18/116496/foster-carers-to-become-pushy-parents-under-new-charter.htmlA charter launched today will help foster carers become pushy parents according to children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured). Fri, 18 Mar 2011 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116488/council-u-turn-saves-volunteers-in-child-protection-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/17/116488/council-u-turn-saves-volunteers-in-child-protection-scheme.htmlA London council has reversed its decision to scrap its Volunteers in Child Protection scheme after pressure from the public. (Picture: Rex Features, model released) Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116479/social-care-duties-cuts-will-be-fought-tooth-and-nail.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116479/social-care-duties-cuts-will-be-fought-tooth-and-nail.htmlGovernment attempts to curb council duties to support disabled people would be fought "tooth and nail", the architect of many of those duties has warned. Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116478/sector-heads-urge-rethink-on-child-protection-commissioning.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116478/sector-heads-urge-rethink-on-child-protection-commissioning.htmlSocial care sector leaders are lobbying the Department of Health to include specific child protection amendments to health secretary Andrew Lansley's (pictured) White Paper going through parliament, Community Care has learned.Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116476/ignoring-southwark-judgement-led-to-boys-suicide-finds-scr.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116476/ignoring-southwark-judgement-led-to-boys-suicide-finds-scr.htmlA serious case review (SCR) into the suicide of a Polish teenager in Manchester has criticised social workers for failing to respond to his needs, in line with the Southwark judgement on homeless 16- and 17-year-olds.Wed, 16 Mar 2011 11:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116473/reviewing-officers-want-to-move-out-of-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/16/116473/reviewing-officers-want-to-move-out-of-childrens-services.htmlMore than two-thirds of independent reviewing officers do not believe they should be based within children's services departments, a survey has revealed. Wed, 16 Mar 2011 10:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116466/fears-pickles-consultation-might-dilute-social-worker-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116466/fears-pickles-consultation-might-dilute-social-worker-role.htmlCommunities secretary Eric Pickles' (pictured) review of statutory social care duties could dilute the role of the local authority social worker, experts have warned.Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116462/confusion-over-consultation-on-child-protection-duties.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116462/confusion-over-consultation-on-child-protection-duties.htmlChildren's social care groups are worried and confused by a government consultation ordered by communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured) on whether to ditch a council's legal duty to investigate child protection concerns. Picture: Rex FeaturesMon, 14 Mar 2011 13:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116461/social-work-role-unclear-in-disabilities-green-paper.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/14/116461/social-work-role-unclear-in-disabilities-green-paper.htmlSocial care professionals working with disabled children and those with special educational needs are anxious about their future role after publication of the government's strategy document sparked confusion.Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116457/social-workers-under-fire-in-serious-case-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116457/social-workers-under-fire-in-serious-case-review.htmlSocial workers spent too much time supporting a mother and not enough on child protection leading to a young girl suffering almost two decades of physical and sexual abuse an Essex serious case review has concludedFri, 11 Mar 2011 18:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116456/minister-unclear-on-social-worker-role-with-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116456/minister-unclear-on-social-worker-role-with-disabled-children.htmlChildren and Families minister Sarah Teather (left) has admitted she does not know where social workers fit into the government's vision for children with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities. Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116448/abolition-of-social-care-duties-would-be-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/11/116448/abolition-of-social-care-duties-would-be-illegal.htmlAbolishing councils' legal duties to provide social care would breach human rights law, a lawyer has warned after communities secretary Eric Pickles floated the idea. Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116441/mps-furious-over-pickles-social-care-duties-consultation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116441/mps-furious-over-pickles-social-care-duties-consultation.htmlMPs have condemned the government for consulting on the removal of statutory social care duties, branding the moves "terrifying" and "unthinkable". Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116434/government-could-abolish-all-council-social-care-duties.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116434/government-could-abolish-all-council-social-care-duties.htmlThe government will take social care "back to year zero" if it removes duties on councils to support service users, as part of the war on "barmy" rules declared by communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured). Picture: Rex FeaturesThu, 10 Mar 2011 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116435/barnardos-to-run-services-at-new-immigration-removal-centre.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/10/116435/barnardos-to-run-services-at-new-immigration-removal-centre.htmlBarnardo's is to run welfare services for children and families held in the government's proposed detention centre near Gatwick Airport. Thu, 10 Mar 2011 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116424/sen-green-paper-plans-would-require-radical-changes-to-law.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116424/sen-green-paper-plans-would-require-radical-changes-to-law.htmlThe government needs to radically change the law if local authorities are to implement the agenda set out in its green paper on children with special education needs and disabilities, according to the Local Government Association. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116423/cuts-threaten-schemes-to-keep-vulnerable-women-out-of-prison.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116423/cuts-threaten-schemes-to-keep-vulnerable-women-out-of-prison.htmlWork to divert women with mental health problems from prison could be at risk if funding is lost from community services to help address their offending, an expert has warned.Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116421/childrens-social-work-practice-pilots-to-be-expanded.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116421/childrens-social-work-practice-pilots-to-be-expanded.htmlMore GP-style social work practice pilots for children are to be rolled out in the autumn as part of the government's Big Society agenda.Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116419/confusion-over-social-work-role-in-disability.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116419/confusion-over-social-work-role-in-disability.htmlA single assessment process for children with disabilities and special educational needs will replace the current statementing system, a government green paper revealed today, children's minister Sarah Teather has announced.Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116420/government-urged-to-invest-in-savings-for-care-leavers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116420/government-urged-to-invest-in-savings-for-care-leavers.htmlThe government is being urged to invest in a scheme to ensure children in care retain savings accounts, following the government's abolition of the child trust fund for children in the UK to save £500m. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 10:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116414/funding-cuts-lead-to-tidal-wave-of-job-and-service-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/09/116414/funding-cuts-lead-to-tidal-wave-of-job-and-service-losses.htmlCouncils throughout England are slashing services as a result of their budgets being cut. Jeremy Dunning, Kirsty McGregor and Molly Garboden examine the impact on four authoritiesWed, 09 Mar 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/08/116411/professional-failed-to-report-foster-carers-sexual-misconduct.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/08/116411/professional-failed-to-report-foster-carers-sexual-misconduct.htmlA children's social worker who failed to report sexually inappropriate behaviour involving a foster carer and a service user has been warned about his conduct. Tue, 08 Mar 2011 09:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116409/treasury-minister-urges-councils-to-go-easy-on-charities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116409/treasury-minister-urges-councils-to-go-easy-on-charities.htmlCouncils must ensure charities do not bear the brunt of cuts so that the government's Big Society goal of a more active voluntary sector is achieved, a Treasury minister has warned.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116408/ofsted-chief-defends-childrens-homes-inspections-framework.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116408/ofsted-chief-defends-childrens-homes-inspections-framework.htmlOfsted has hit back at concerns over its new framework for inspecting children's homes, insisting it is "not vastly different, just clearer". Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116407/charity-mounts-legal-challenge-over-housing-benefit-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116407/charity-mounts-legal-challenge-over-housing-benefit-cuts.htmlThe Child Poverty Action Group is mounting a legal challenge on housing benefit changes which come into force on 1 April.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116406/childrens-referrals-should-be-multi-agency-assessed-says-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116406/childrens-referrals-should-be-multi-agency-assessed-says-review.htmlA serious case review into a cot death in Stoke-on-Trent has backed a push to have multi-agency teams assess all referrals to children's services.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116404/childline-calls-from-children-in-care-up-32.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116404/childline-calls-from-children-in-care-up-32.htmlCalls to ChildLine from children in care have increased by 32% in the past five years, according to the NSPCC.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116400/drop-disability-reforms-say-100-plus-social-care-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116400/drop-disability-reforms-say-100-plus-social-care-experts.htmlMore than 100 prominent social care academics and policy experts have urged the governments to drop its plans for welfare reform because they say the plans will penalise disabled people.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116403/childrens-homes-best-practice-body-set-for-launch.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116403/childrens-homes-best-practice-body-set-for-launch.htmlAn independent organisation to help providers drive improvements across residential child care is in the final stages of development. Led by Jonathan Stanley, pictured, former manager of the National Centre for Excellence in Residential Child Care, the initiative will be open to all those with an interest in residential child care. Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116401/cwdc-looks-to-cut-11-staff-from-local-areas.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/07/116401/cwdc-looks-to-cut-11-staff-from-local-areas.htmlCouncils will no longer have local support for integrated working across children's services following cuts at the Children's Workforce Development Council. Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/03/116389/cwdc-moves-to-improve-fostering-workbooks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/03/116389/cwdc-moves-to-improve-fostering-workbooks.htmlOnline guidance and training resources were launched today to help social workers implement the controversial CWDC fostering workbooks.Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116380/high-court-forces-council-to-support-teenager-with-autism.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116380/high-court-forces-council-to-support-teenager-with-autism.htmlThe family of a teenager with severe autism has won a High Court appeal to force a local authority to provide support for him once he turns 18.Wed, 02 Mar 2011 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116379/social-workers-overwhelmed-by-children-with-complex-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116379/social-workers-overwhelmed-by-children-with-complex-needs.htmlSocial care professionals are "overwhelmed by the complexity of needs" of some disabled children, according to a report published by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) today.Wed, 02 Mar 2011 14:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116378/loughton-ofsted-must-focus-more-on-childrens-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116378/loughton-ofsted-must-focus-more-on-childrens-social-care.htmlOfsted is overly focused on its inspection remit within schools and needs to increase its emphasis on children's social care, according to children's minister Tim Loughton.Wed, 02 Mar 2011 14:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116376/health-reforms-pose-risk-to-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116376/health-reforms-pose-risk-to-childrens-services.htmlThe government's health reforms are already having a negative impact on the commissioning of children's services and there are fears that GP-commissioning will worsen the situation, according to the Commissioning Support Programme (CSP).Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116373/ofsted-urges-ministers-to-boost-childrens-homes-leadership.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/02/116373/ofsted-urges-ministers-to-boost-childrens-homes-leadership.htmlThe government needs to start using the experience and skills of the leaders of exceptional children's homes to improve standards across the residential...Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116368/loughton-urges-councils-to-outsource-adoption-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/03/01/116368/loughton-urges-councils-to-outsource-adoption-services.htmlMore local authorities could boost adoption rates by outsourcing to the voluntary sector, according to children's minister Tim Loughton. Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116366/adoption-guidance-criticised-for-its-political-spin.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116366/adoption-guidance-criticised-for-its-political-spin.htmlAdoption agencies and social workers say government guidance has done nothing to tackle issues such as the systemic delays and problematic post-adoption support which is leading to high rates of placement breakdown.Mon, 28 Feb 2011 17:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116362/track-young-offenders-to-help-them-resettle-says-barnardos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116362/track-young-offenders-to-help-them-resettle-says-barnardos.htmlA national tracking system for young people leaving custody needs to be developed urgently to ensure their resettlement needs are met, a children's charity says.Mon, 28 Feb 2011 15:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116359/scottish-government-to-invest-2m-extra-in-short-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116359/scottish-government-to-invest-2m-extra-in-short-breaks.htmlA further £2m is to be invested in Scotland on short breaks for families with severely disabled children.Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116354/england-child-death-rates-among-lowest.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/28/116354/england-child-death-rates-among-lowest.htmlChild death rates in the England are lower than those in the US, Australia and parts of Scandinavia, according to in a seven-nation comparative study on safeguarding.Mon, 28 Feb 2011 10:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116336/yot-funding-fears-could-lead-to-heavier-social-work-caseloads.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116336/yot-funding-fears-could-lead-to-heavier-social-work-caseloads.htmlEXCLUSIVE: A funding row over youth offending teams (YOTs) could see children's social workers taking on increased workloads, Community Care has learned. Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116339/childrens-homes-voice-fears-over-new-ofsted-criteria.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/24/116339/childrens-homes-voice-fears-over-new-ofsted-criteria.htmlOfsted's new framework for inspecting children's homes, combined with council budget cuts, will devastate the children's home sector, providers have warned.Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116337/social-workers-angered-by-what-cuts-are-doing-to-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116337/social-workers-angered-by-what-cuts-are-doing-to-care.htmlMental health social workers are "angry" about job and service cuts that are undermining their ability to care and increasing workloads, a social work chief has said.Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116332/minister-wants-ombudsman-for-contentious-adoptions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116332/minister-wants-ombudsman-for-contentious-adoptions.htmlEXCLUSIVE: Children's minister Tim Loughton is considering whether "highly contentious" adoption cases should be investigated by a government-appointed ombudsman.Wed, 23 Feb 2011 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116331/councils-social-workers-may-deal-with-young-offenders-alone.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116331/councils-social-workers-may-deal-with-young-offenders-alone.htmlVulnerable young offenders in Newham will have either a social worker or a youth offending team (YOT) worker, but not both, under plans being considered by the east London council.Wed, 23 Feb 2011 11:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116330/mental-health-trusts-to-make-15-job-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/23/116330/mental-health-trusts-to-make-15-job-cuts.htmlMental health trusts are planning acute jobs cuts with some planning to shed 15% from their workforces, it was revealed today. Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/22/116323/ministers-want-tougher-ofsted-scrutiny-of-adoption-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/22/116323/ministers-want-tougher-ofsted-scrutiny-of-adoption-services.htmlThe government is looking to beef-up Ofsted's inspections of adoption services following its publication of updated guidance today.Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/22/116318/government-urges-more-use-of-voluntary-adoption-agencies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/22/116318/government-urges-more-use-of-voluntary-adoption-agencies.htmlThe government wants councils to make more use of voluntary adoption agencies, in the first ever piece of guidance on the issue.Tue, 22 Feb 2011 06:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116319/attack-on-pay-sparks-fears-of-social-work-brain-drain.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116319/attack-on-pay-sparks-fears-of-social-work-brain-drain.htmlA government crackdown on pay for senior council officers will lead to a brain drain of top managers from social care, according to experts. The warning came as communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured) declared war on "mega salaries" paid by councils to managers.Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116316/big-society-wont-work-for-social-care-says-welsh-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/21/116316/big-society-wont-work-for-social-care-says-welsh-minister.htmlThe minister responsible for social services in Wales has hit out at David Cameron's Big Society vision, arguing that it is short-sighted not to invest more in social care.Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116314/wales-creates-de-facto-national-social-care-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116314/wales-creates-de-facto-national-social-care-service.htmlRadical plans that will effectively result in the creation of a national care service for Wales have been unveiled by the Welsh Assembly Government (Pic; Welsh Assembly)Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116305/welsh-councils-to-lose-social-care-powers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/18/116305/welsh-councils-to-lose-social-care-powers.htmlWelsh care providers have hailed plans to curb individual councils' role in social care as a "victory for common sense", after the Welsh government announced a 10-year plan for social services today. Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116304/experts-back-welsh-adoption-agency-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116304/experts-back-welsh-adoption-agency-plan.htmlAdoption experts have backed plans for a national adoption agency in Wales, outlined today by the Welsh government.Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116295/disability-benefits-slashed-in-welfare-reform-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/17/116295/disability-benefits-slashed-in-welfare-reform-bill.htmlDisabled people will be the big losers in the government's overhaul of the benefits system unveiled today in the Welfare Reform Bill. Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/16/116287/children-reveal-little-faith-in-family-courts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/16/116287/children-reveal-little-faith-in-family-courts.htmlChildren involved in family court proceedings have been left with little faith in family justice, research has revealed, with half believing courts never make the right decisions for them. Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/15/116275/nspcc-finds-one-in-five-11-to-17-year-olds-have-been-abused.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/15/116275/nspcc-finds-one-in-five-11-to-17-year-olds-have-been-abused.htmlAlmost one-fifth of 11 to 17-year-olds have been severely abused or neglected in childhood, findings released by the NSPCC today reveal. (Picture: Rex, model released) Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/14/116281/haringey-council-cuts-back-social-worker-training-and-jobs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/14/116281/haringey-council-cuts-back-social-worker-training-and-jobs.htmlHaringey Council has come under fire from the tabloid media for cutting social worker posts and its training budgets for social workers. Mon, 14 Feb 2011 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116261/1000-social-workers-doing-illegal-overseas-assessments.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116261/1000-social-workers-doing-illegal-overseas-assessments.htmlAs many as 1,000 UK social workers could be travelling abroad every year to conduct "illegal" assessments, according to a charity that specialises in overseas work, writes Julie Griffiths.Fri, 11 Feb 2011 16:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116271/early-intervention-providers-need-payments-incentive.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116271/early-intervention-providers-need-payments-incentive.html "Milestone payments" should be paid to providers of early intervention services in order to be attractive to investors according to Graham Allen. The...Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116266/nick-clegg-defends-changes-to-crb-checks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/11/116266/nick-clegg-defends-changes-to-crb-checks.htmlGovernment plans to scale back Criminal Records Bureau checks could let "thousands" of dangerous individuals come into contact with children, an expert has warned. But deputy prime minister Nick Clegg has defended the changes.Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/10/116258/ofsted-notes-outstanding-progress-at-cafcass-derbyshire.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/10/116258/ofsted-notes-outstanding-progress-at-cafcass-derbyshire.htmlCafcass has been commended by Ofsted after an inspection revealed "outstanding" improvements in the services it provides to children and families in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. It follows a history of long delays in the area and an 80% increase in demand for public law work over the past two years.Thu, 10 Feb 2011 10:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116250/councils-start-to-cut-childrens-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116250/councils-start-to-cut-childrens-social-workers.htmlCouncil budget cuts are having a mixed impact on children's social care across the country with some proposing to delete social worker posts, training budgets and administration support but others looking to increase investment.Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116248/councils-slash-social-care-managers-to-save-35m.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/09/116248/councils-slash-social-care-managers-to-save-35m.htmlThree Tory-led London boroughs will slash management posts across children's and adults' services by creating single departments for both, as part of moves to save £35m. Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116242/bromley-poised-to-axe-volunteer-child-protection-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116242/bromley-poised-to-axe-volunteer-child-protection-scheme.htmlBromley Council's Volunteers in Child Protection (ViCP) scheme may come to an end as the council has proposed axing its £38,000 annual funding. Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116241/vetting-and-barring-scheme-to-be-scaled-back.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116241/vetting-and-barring-scheme-to-be-scaled-back.htmlLabour's controversial Vetting and Barring Scheme is to be scaled back after critics claimed it could result in 12,000 innocent people being labelled as unsuitable to work with children.Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:07:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116240/munros-child-protection-pilots-could-transform-safeguarding.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116240/munros-child-protection-pilots-could-transform-safeguarding.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro's (left) pilot plan to scrap statutory deadlines in child protection work has the potential to transform the confidence and standing of social workers, according to experts. Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116232/munros-ideal-vision-of-child-protection-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/07/116232/munros-ideal-vision-of-child-protection-social-work.htmlLess pressure, more support and better resources. Could this be the future of social work if Professor Eileen Munro gets her way?Mon, 07 Feb 2011 10:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/03/116221/childrens-minister-condemns-telegraph-adoption-campaign.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/03/116221/childrens-minister-condemns-telegraph-adoption-campaign.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has condemned a national newspaper columnist's campaign against "forced adoptions", branding it "damaging" and "demoralising".Thu, 03 Feb 2011 16:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/03/116217/90-of-violent-fathers-in-close-touch-with-their-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/03/116217/90-of-violent-fathers-in-close-touch-with-their-children.htmlNearly 90% of fathers guilty of multiple incidents of domestic violence remain in close contact with their children, according to a study of children's services involvement with domestically abusive fathers, published today.Thu, 03 Feb 2011 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116215/civil-service-cuts-put-mental-health-strategy-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116215/civil-service-cuts-put-mental-health-strategy-at-risk.htmlThe government has admitted it risks undermining its plans to help one million people recover from mental health problems because of massive cuts in civil service expertise. The plans were announced today by health secretary Andrew Lansley in the government's mental health strategy. Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116202/embed-social-workers-in-universal-services-urges-munro.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/02/116202/embed-social-workers-in-universal-services-urges-munro.htmlMore social workers could be embedded in universal services if a suggestion in Professor Eileen Munro's latest report is taken up by government.Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116204/munro-says-ics-can-create-more-problems-than-it-solves.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116204/munro-says-ics-can-create-more-problems-than-it-solves.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has described the development of the integrated children's system (ICS) as a good example of a "failure to learn" and added that many systems in councils actually made errors more likely, rather than less likely, to occur. Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116198/munro-wants-unannounced-inspections-for-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116198/munro-wants-unannounced-inspections-for-all-services.htmlAll children's services should be subject to unannounced inspections according to Professor Eileen Munro's interim report into the child protection system in England.Tue, 01 Feb 2011 15:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116201/munro-social-work-management-role-should-be-split.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116201/munro-social-work-management-role-should-be-split.htmlThe Munro review is considering whether the social work manager's role needs to be split so that staff can receive enough help for critical reflection on their cases.Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116200/wales-to-launch-faster-serious-case-review-system.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116200/wales-to-launch-faster-serious-case-review-system.htmlWales is to implement a new system of serious case reviews (SCRs) this year, deputy minister for social services Gwenda Thomas announced today.Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116203/munro-looks-to-health-sector-for-scr-inspiration.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116203/munro-looks-to-health-sector-for-scr-inspiration.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro is looking to the health sector to help re-shape serious case reviews. This will form part of her final report to be published in mid-May.Tue, 01 Feb 2011 13:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116206/munro-social-workers-lack-communication-tools-and-skills.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/02/01/116206/munro-social-workers-lack-communication-tools-and-skills.htmlChildren's social workers currently lack the training and tools necessary to develop productive relationships with the children they should be protecting, according to Professor Eileen Munro's latest instalment of her review of England's child protection.Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/31/116197/council-asks-childrens-homes-for-10-fees-reduction-by-march.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/31/116197/council-asks-childrens-homes-for-10-fees-reduction-by-march.htmlManchester Council has given its children's homes less than two months to deliver 10% cuts on current and future placements, Community Care has learned.Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/31/116195/disabled-children-bear-brunt-of-grant-cuts-in-east-sussex.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/31/116195/disabled-children-bear-brunt-of-grant-cuts-in-east-sussex.htmlDisabled children are among those hit the hardest as East Sussex Council proposes budget cuts of £4.5m (pic: Alamy)Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116186/experts-find-no-evidence-of-labour-schemes-success.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116186/experts-find-no-evidence-of-labour-schemes-success.htmlIt is impossible to assess the effectiveness of many recent initiatives aiming to improve outcomes for vulnerable young people according to a research review. (Picture: Rex)Fri, 28 Jan 2011 13:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116185/support-worker-struck-off-after-unsupervised-sex-offender-visit.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116185/support-worker-struck-off-after-unsupervised-sex-offender-visit.html A child support worker in Scotland has been struck off after allowing a registered sex offender an unsupervised visit to a house where a two-year-old child...Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116178/hundreds-of-sure-start-childrens-centres-set-to-close.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/28/116178/hundreds-of-sure-start-childrens-centres-set-to-close.htmlAs many as 250 Sure Start children's centres are at risk of closing within a year, while thousands are cutting back services and issuing redundancy risk notices, it has been revealed.Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/26/116174/loughton-casts-doubt-on-ofsted-adoption-inspections.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/26/116174/loughton-casts-doubt-on-ofsted-adoption-inspections.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has promised to investigate Ofsted inspections of adoption services, claiming that some of the "good" and "outstanding" ratings do not reflect the outcomes for children. Wed, 26 Jan 2011 14:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116168/attorney-general-to-consider-guardians-for-trafficked-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116168/attorney-general-to-consider-guardians-for-trafficked-children.htmlThe Attorney General is to examine whether trafficked children involved in UK court proceedings should be appointed a...Mon, 24 Jan 2011 16:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116163/council-must-review-up-to-400-child-protection-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116163/council-must-review-up-to-400-child-protection-cases.htmlGloucestershire Council must review nearly 400 child protection cases following an Ofsted inspection.Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116160/nhs-market-reforms-pose-risk-to-services-warn-professionals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/24/116160/nhs-market-reforms-pose-risk-to-services-warn-professionals.htmlSocial care professionals may be still trying to get their heads around the 367-page Health and Social Care Bill published last week, but their health colleagues appear to have already made up their minds about health secretary Andrew Lansley's plans. Mon, 24 Jan 2011 10:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116158/cafcass-chief-tells-staff-to-improve-complaints-handling.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116158/cafcass-chief-tells-staff-to-improve-complaints-handling.htmlThe chief executive of Cafcass Anthony Douglas (left)has demanded improvements after warning staff the family courts body is among the worst performing public bodies for handling complaints, Community Care has discovered.Fri, 21 Jan 2011 17:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116151/childrens-social-workers-want-return-of-patch-based-teams.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116151/childrens-social-workers-want-return-of-patch-based-teams.htmlMost child protection professionals want a return to "patch-based" working, according to a Com­munity Care survey on bureaucracy for the Munro review.Fri, 21 Jan 2011 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116150/council-to-review-bristol-disabled-child-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/21/116150/council-to-review-bristol-disabled-child-case.htmlThe council which was asked to take a disabled child into care by her despairing mother is to review the family's case following prime minster David Cameron's promise to investigate the case.Fri, 21 Jan 2011 10:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116144/adoption-delays-could-be-costing-councils-millions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116144/adoption-delays-could-be-costing-councils-millions.htmlAs many as 1,000 children could be languishing in care because of delays in approving adoptive parents, costing councils tens of millions of pounds, research has found. (picture: Rex, posed by model)Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116146/practitioners-need-better-grip-of-parliamentary-process.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116146/practitioners-need-better-grip-of-parliamentary-process.htmlChildren's services practitioners need to familiarise themselves with the specifics of government processes if they want to bring about meaningful change within their sector, according to former children's commissioner Al Aynsley-Green.Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116136/councils-fall-short-in-response-to-adult-abuse-allegations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116136/councils-fall-short-in-response-to-adult-abuse-allegations.htmlCouncils are failing to respond adequately to allegations of abuse of vulnerable adults, the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) warned today in its annual report. (Picture: Rex, model released) Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116143/cameron-writes-to-mother-of-disabled-child-who-cant-cope.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/20/116143/cameron-writes-to-mother-of-disabled-child-who-cant-cope.htmlDavid Cameron is to write to a mother who may have to put her severely disabled daughter into care.Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116133/contactpoint-replacement-could-be-tried-in-hospitals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116133/contactpoint-replacement-could-be-tried-in-hospitals.htmlHospital accident and emergency departments may pilot the national signposting system that will replace ContactPoint, according to children's minister Tim Loughton.Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116122/graham-allen-urges-launch-of-national-early-intervention-body.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/19/116122/graham-allen-urges-launch-of-national-early-intervention-body.htmlA national body should be set up to oversee the operation and funding of early intervention throughout the UK, according to the MP tasked with investigating the future of programmes.Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116126/scottish-government-sets-out-child-protection-measures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116126/scottish-government-sets-out-child-protection-measures.htmlChild protection professionals in Scotland will benefit from a series of government initiatives announced today as part of a national review of child protection procedures.Tue, 18 Jan 2011 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116125/social-workers-could-be-sacked-over-brothers-torture-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116125/social-workers-could-be-sacked-over-brothers-torture-case.htmlUp to 10 staff members, including social care practitioners, who worked with the two brothers jailed for torturing two younger children near Edlington could lose their jobs, Doncaster Council has confirmed.Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116089/focus-on-race-in-grooming-cases-could-lead-to-more-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/18/116089/focus-on-race-in-grooming-cases-could-lead-to-more-risk.htmlThe recent media and political focus on race issues within sexual exploitation cases could put more children and young people at risk, according to the new chief executive of Barnardo's (Anne Marie Carrie pictured).Tue, 18 Jan 2011 10:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/13/116107/basw-poised-to-form-rival-social-work-college.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/13/116107/basw-poised-to-form-rival-social-work-college.htmlThe British Association of Social Workers is likely to announce fresh plans this month to form a rival to the College of Social Work, Community Care understands. Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116092/narey-left-munro-panel-in-september-2010.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116092/narey-left-munro-panel-in-september-2010.htmlMartin Narey has stepped down from Professor Eileen Munro's safeguarding review panel it has been revealed.Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116090/ceop-launches-study-into-sexual-exploitation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116090/ceop-launches-study-into-sexual-exploitation.htmlThe Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre is to research ways to reduce the risk of "on-street" grooming and sexual exploitation of young people.Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116094/council-suspends-childrens-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116094/council-suspends-childrens-chief.htmlColin Tucker (pictured) has been suspended from his post as Birmingham's director of children's services.Wed, 12 Jan 2011 10:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116079/voluntary-sector-cuts-threaten-big-society-vision.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/12/116079/voluntary-sector-cuts-threaten-big-society-vision.htmlVoluntary social care organisations are being devastated by public spending cuts that threaten to undermine the government's Big Society agenda, research by Community Care reveals. (Picture: the Epilepsy Society's Chalfont Centre may see cuts)Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/11/116084/council-review-finds-flaws-in-cases-of-500-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/11/116084/council-review-finds-flaws-in-cases-of-500-children.htmlKent Council has discovered problems in the cases of more than 500 at-risk childrenfollowing a council-led review of the department. (Picture credit: Rex Features, model released)Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/11/116082/nine-men-arrested-on-suspicion-of-exploiting-teenage-girls.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/11/116082/nine-men-arrested-on-suspicion-of-exploiting-teenage-girls.htmlNine men have been arrested on suspicion of grooming and sexually exploiting teenage girls in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. Tue, 11 Jan 2011 13:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116077/government-offers-118m-fund-for-voluntary-organisations.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116077/government-offers-118m-fund-for-voluntary-organisations.htmlThe Department for Education (DfE) is offering voluntary and community organisations £118m of transitional funding to help them adjust to new funding arrangements in the wake of government cuts over the next two years.Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116076/extra-gp-style-social-work-practice-pilots-to-be-launched.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/10/116076/extra-gp-style-social-work-practice-pilots-to-be-launched.htmlA further nine independent GP-style social work practices for children in care will be piloted in England this year despite opposition from unions.Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/07/116067/council-plans-to-lift-child-protection-referral-burden.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/07/116067/council-plans-to-lift-child-protection-referral-burden.htmlChild protection workers in Hammersmith and Fulham will no longer assess referrals but instead focus on complex cases in a proposed reorganisation of the council's children's services. Fri, 07 Jan 2011 17:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/07/116070/social-workers-and-experts-give-their-views-on-munro-questions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/07/116070/social-workers-and-experts-give-their-views-on-munro-questions.htmlResponses to Professor Monro's (left) questions on child protection work focus on what prevents effective relationships between practitioners and familiesFri, 07 Jan 2011 16:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116061/munro-extends-deadline-for-social-worker-questions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116061/munro-extends-deadline-for-social-worker-questions.htmlEileen Munro has extended the deadline for frontline workers wishing to contribute their views to her review of children's social services.Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116054/munro-social-worker-questions-spark-debate.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/06/116054/munro-social-worker-questions-spark-debate.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro, who is currently reviewing child protection procedures, should be finding out social workers' views on the role of joint child protection investigations with other professionals, according to academics.Thu, 06 Jan 2011 10:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/04/116046/munro-asks-frontline-workers-what-needs-to-change.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2011/01/04/116046/munro-asks-frontline-workers-what-needs-to-change.htmlFrontline workers are being asked to tell Professor Eileen Munro (pictured) what they would like to keep and what should be discarded in the child protection system.Tue, 04 Jan 2011 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/22/116043/royal-college-outlines-standards-for-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/22/116043/royal-college-outlines-standards-for-child-protection.htmlAll children's social workers ought to have access to a paediatrician who can provide child protection advice and assessments, according to a new set of standards.Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/21/115958/councils-clarify-position-over-unallocated-children-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/21/115958/councils-clarify-position-over-unallocated-children-cases.htmlDebate over the allocation of cases by children's services departments has intensified following a Community Care investigation.Tue, 21 Dec 2010 12:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/115831/8000-vulnerable-children-denied-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/115831/8000-vulnerable-children-denied-social-workers.htmlCouncils have failed to allocate social workers to more than 8,000 vulnerable children across the country, a Community Care investigation has revealed. (Picture: Alamy. Model released)Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116042/social-services-in-northern-ireland-face-major-job-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116042/social-services-in-northern-ireland-face-major-job-losses.htmlAdult social care and children's services in Northern Ireland face significant job losses amid concern that a small growth in expenditure will be insufficient to meet rising demand.Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116041/justice-ministry-oversight-insults-independent-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116041/justice-ministry-oversight-insults-independent-workers.htmlIndependent social workers say they have been insulted by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), which failed to acknowledge them in the latest consultation on legal aid reforms.Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116036/joy-for-care-workers-as-migrant-cap-ruled-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/20/116036/joy-for-care-workers-as-migrant-cap-ruled-illegal.htmlCare workers and bosses are this week celebrating a "huge victory" after the government's temporary immigration cap was ruled illegal and quashed on Friday. The High Court decision means many overseas care workers could have work permits reinstated after having had them removed. (Image from Rex) Mon, 20 Dec 2010 11:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/17/116037/munro-plaudit-for-hackneys-reclaim-social-work-model.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/17/116037/munro-plaudit-for-hackneys-reclaim-social-work-model.htmlThe London Borough of Hackney's Reclaim Social Work model cut the cost of children's social care by 4.97%, according to an independent evaluation still to be officially published in full.Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116033/benefit-changes-put-more-children-into-poverty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116033/benefit-changes-put-more-children-into-poverty.htmlThe number of children in absolute poverty will rise by 200,000 within three years because of the government's tax and benefit reforms, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS).Thu, 16 Dec 2010 19:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116031/child-detention-to-end-and-yarls-wood-closes-now.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/16/116031/child-detention-to-end-and-yarls-wood-closes-now.html The detention of children in immigration cases will end by May, with the family wing of the controversial Yarl's Wood centre closed immediately, deputy prime...Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116025/nhs-overhaul-to-include-more-social-care-joint-working.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116025/nhs-overhaul-to-include-more-social-care-joint-working.htmlThe government will press ahead with its overhaul of the NHS but has responded to concerns that it will disrupt joint working between health and social care by strengthening proposed partnership arrangements.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 19:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116029/primary-care-trusts-to-be-merged-ahead-of-abolition.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116029/primary-care-trusts-to-be-merged-ahead-of-abolition.htmlPrimary care trusts will be merged into "clusters" next year ahead of their abolition in 2013, the government announced today.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116027/cafcass-services-gain-first-good-rating-from-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116027/cafcass-services-gain-first-good-rating-from-ofsted.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass has received its first "good" rating from Ofsted, following an unannounced inspection of its services in the North East.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116018/munro-review-may-adopt-police-risk-assessment-methods.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/116018/munro-review-may-adopt-police-risk-assessment-methods.htmlThe Munro review is looking at adopting police risk assessment methods for all child protection workers, according to a former police chief who sits on the team led by Professor Eileen Munro (pictured).Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/115992/autism-charities-cut-back-on-key-services-as-councils-retrench.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/15/115992/autism-charities-cut-back-on-key-services-as-councils-retrench.htmlNearly 40% of autism charities anticipate having to make cuts to services in the next year on the back of funding reductions from government, a report has found. Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116016/social-workers-should-intervene-earlier-says-gove.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116016/social-workers-should-intervene-earlier-says-gove.htmlEducation secretary Michael Gove has called for social workers to intervene earlier when children are at risk of harm.Tue, 14 Dec 2010 14:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116012/local-government-childrens-services-funding-cut-by-11.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116012/local-government-childrens-services-funding-cut-by-11.htmlThe government's early intervention grant (EIG) will provide 10.9% less funding than the aggregated 2010-11 funding that councils received through its predecessors. Education secretary Michael Gove (pictured) said there was enough money for Sure Start and children's centres to be retained.Tue, 14 Dec 2010 12:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116011/schools-to-receive-430-for-looked-after-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116011/schools-to-receive-430-for-looked-after-children.htmlSchools will receive £430 for every looked-after child and deprived pupil they have under the government's pupil premium scheme, children's minister Michael Gove announced yesterday.Tue, 14 Dec 2010 11:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116009/study-shows-how-fast-vulnerable-parents-can-change.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/14/116009/study-shows-how-fast-vulnerable-parents-can-change.htmlVulnerable parents who have the capacity to change their lives usually do so before their child is six months old, according to new research from Loughborough University.Tue, 14 Dec 2010 10:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116006/fears-for-social-care-as-government-cuts-budgets-by-up-to-9.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116006/fears-for-social-care-as-government-cuts-budgets-by-up-to-9.htmlCouncils in England will lose an average of 4.4% in revenue next year due to Whitehall cuts, the government has announced, leading to fears for the future of social work services. Communities secretary Eric Pickles (pictured) told MPs that no authority would see its spending power cut by more than 9%.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116004/council-will-struggle-to-maintain-social-care-after-funding-cut.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116004/council-will-struggle-to-maintain-social-care-after-funding-cut.htmlEdinburgh Council will struggle to maintain its social care provision after being one of the worst hit by the Scottish government's local authorities settlement, the lead member for social care has warned.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116002/short-breaks-to-be-funded-through-early-intervention-grant.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116002/short-breaks-to-be-funded-through-early-intervention-grant.htmlShort-break funding is to form part of the early intervention grant announced in the comprehensive spending review.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116001/localism-bill-would-allow-staff-to-run-councils-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/116001/localism-bill-would-allow-staff-to-run-councils-care-services.htmlSocial work services could be taken over by residents' groups or council employees under the Localism Bill published todayMon, 13 Dec 2010 12:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/115998/new-child-protection-guidance-issued-in-scotland.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/13/115998/new-child-protection-guidance-issued-in-scotland.htmlScotland's child protection register will no longer identify children under a category of abuse it was announced today. Mon, 13 Dec 2010 11:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/10/115996/government-pledges-30m-to-keep-families-together.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/10/115996/government-pledges-30m-to-keep-families-together.htmlTroubled families are to receive support worth £30m over the next four years, children's minister Sarah Teather has announced.Fri, 10 Dec 2010 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/10/115989/stabbed-social-worker-had-no-warning-of-death-threat.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/10/115989/stabbed-social-worker-had-no-warning-of-death-threat.htmlMental health agencies failed to tell a social worker that mental health patient Graham Burton (pictured) had threatened to kill her shortly before he attacked her with a knife, a report has found. Fri, 10 Dec 2010 11:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/09/115983/northern-irish-case-management-reviews-could-be-made-public.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/09/115983/northern-irish-case-management-reviews-could-be-made-public.htmlNorthern Irish case management reviews (CMRs) could be published after a children's services redesign.Thu, 09 Dec 2010 12:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/09/115979/twice-as-many-excellent-services-as-last-year-says-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/09/115979/twice-as-many-excellent-services-as-last-year-says-ofsted.htmlTwice the number of councils are providing excellent children's services compared with last year, according to Ofsted's 2010 children's services assessments, published today.Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115978/child-protection-thresholds-too-high-to-target-sexual-abuse.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115978/child-protection-thresholds-too-high-to-target-sexual-abuse.htmlChild protection thresholds are set so high that thousands of sexually exploited children and young people miss out on help, experts say in the wake of the Derby sexual abuse scandal (pictured).Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115976/childrens-directors-won-over-by-unannounced-ofsted-visits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115976/childrens-directors-won-over-by-unannounced-ofsted-visits.htmlUnannounced Ofsted inspections trigger lower levels of bureaucracy and stress, the Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) told MPs this morning.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115974/council-bid-to-outsource-social-care-to-unified-health-trusts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115974/council-bid-to-outsource-social-care-to-unified-health-trusts.htmlSuffolk Council plans to integrate adults' and children's social care and health services into outsourced "trusts" as it radically reshapes services.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115970/effect-of-benefit-reforms-on-disabled-people-unknown-says-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115970/effect-of-benefit-reforms-on-disabled-people-unknown-says-minister.htmlMinister for disabled people, Maria Miller, has said she does not know how many disabled people will be affected by government plans to reform disability living allowance (DLA), or how much the changes will cost.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115972/social-services-chiefs-too-soft-on-ministers-says-sector.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/08/115972/social-services-chiefs-too-soft-on-ministers-says-sector.htmlSocial care sector chiefs are giving ministers too much of an easy time as cuts begin to bite, according to Community Care readers.Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115969/ken-clarkes-reforms-to-divert-young-and-mentally-ill-from-jail.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/07/115969/ken-clarkes-reforms-to-divert-young-and-mentally-ill-from-jail.htmlThe government will divert more offenders with mental health or drug problems into treatment and test giving councils responsibility for youth custody in order to reduce jail numbers, under plans announced by justice secretary Ken Clarke today. Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115953/childrens-commissioner-spared-the-axe.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/06/115953/childrens-commissioner-spared-the-axe.htmlThe Children's Rights Director's role is set to be dissolved into the role of the Children's Commissioner, following an independent report approved by the government today. (Pic: Maggie Atkinson)Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/04/115951/councils-social-workers-face-pay-cut-and-reduced-benefits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/04/115951/councils-social-workers-face-pay-cut-and-reduced-benefits.htmlSocial workers at Southampton Council are facing a 5% pay cut and reductions in car allowances, sick pay and other supplements, under plans that have triggered angry protests from unions. Sat, 04 Dec 2010 12:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115944/outsourced-social-workers-could-become-care-user-advocates.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115944/outsourced-social-workers-could-become-care-user-advocates.htmlPlans to outsource adult social workers from councils to social enterprises could enable practitioners to become user advocates, rather than gatekeepers of careFri, 03 Dec 2010 14:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115942/frank-field-report-shift-money-from-benefits-to-early-years.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115942/frank-field-report-shift-money-from-benefits-to-early-years.htmlThe government should shift child benefit funding to early years services to increase the life chances of poorer children, says report by Frank FieldFri, 03 Dec 2010 12:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115941/carers-missing-out-on-840m-in-unclaimed-benefits.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/03/115941/carers-missing-out-on-840m-in-unclaimed-benefits.htmlCarers are missing out on over £840m in benefits each year, Carers UK revealed today. On the annual Carers Rights Day, the charity said that about 300,000 people entitled to carer's allowance were missing out on the benefit. "We hear from families who are simply not told about the support that is there for them," said Carers UK chief executive Imelda Redmond (pictured). Fri, 03 Dec 2010 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115940/child-sex-abuse-line-sees-sharp-rise-in-self-reporting-adults.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115940/child-sex-abuse-line-sees-sharp-rise-in-self-reporting-adults.htmlMore than half of the calls to a child sexual abuse helpline were made by adults concerned about their own thoughts and behaviour towards children, according to a report published today.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 15:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115934/unison-accuses-birmingham-over-child-protection-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115934/unison-accuses-birmingham-over-child-protection-thresholds.htmlBirmingham is proposing to raise thresholds within children's services, according to Unison.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:48:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115936/child-protection-officer-barred-over-indecent-images.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115936/child-protection-officer-barred-over-indecent-images.htmlA former deputy headteacher who was convicted of possessing indecent images of one of his pupils has been banned from working in social care.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115938/manager-who-made-racist-comments-on-blog-struck-off.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/02/115938/manager-who-made-racist-comments-on-blog-struck-off.htmlA children's day care manager in Scotland who disclosed confidential information and made racist remarks on her blog has been struck off.Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115925/local-partners-failing-children-in-need-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115925/local-partners-failing-children-in-need-in-wales.htmlChildren in need in Wales are suffering because local partners fail to support the work of social services, according to a major review.Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115924/birmingham-to-refer-fewer-children-to-save-money.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/12/01/115924/birmingham-to-refer-fewer-children-to-save-money.htmlBirmingham's widely criticised children's services department is poised to cut the number of interventions as part of a cost-saving plan under which 3,500 children's services jobs are to be axed. Picture: REX FEATURESWed, 01 Dec 2010 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/30/115918/sharp-rise-in-children-on-protection-plans.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/30/115918/sharp-rise-in-children-on-protection-plans.htmlThere has been a 17% increase in the number of children on protection plans in England according to the latest statistics from the Department for Education. (Picture: Rex, posed by models)Tue, 30 Nov 2010 15:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/29/115913/newly-qualified-evaluation-raises-doubts-over-assessed-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/29/115913/newly-qualified-evaluation-raises-doubts-over-assessed-year.htmlLast week's evaluation of the support scheme for newly qualified children's social workers revealed the extent to which employers have struggled to provide extra supervision and support.Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/29/115912/service-hubs-should-be-formed-around-sen-says-think-tank.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/29/115912/service-hubs-should-be-formed-around-sen-says-think-tank.htmlIndependent assessment panels in local authorities should become "assessment hubs" for children with special education needs (SEN) services, according to a report by the Policy Exchange think-tank.Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115894/family-intervention-projects-prove-their-effectiveness.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115894/family-intervention-projects-prove-their-effectiveness.htmlAn evaluation of family intervention projects (FIPs) has shown that they have reduced crime and antisocial behaviour.Fri, 26 Nov 2010 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115892/watchdog-to-probe-equality-impact-of-spending-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/26/115892/watchdog-to-probe-equality-impact-of-spending-review.htmlThe equality watchdog has said it will examine the impact of the government's spending review on disabled people, women and minority ethnic communities. Fri, 26 Nov 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115891/derby-abuse-case-could-be-tip-of-the-iceberg-expert-warns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115891/derby-abuse-case-could-be-tip-of-the-iceberg-expert-warns.htmlChild protection failures exposed in Derby this week are likely to be endemic in local authorities across the country and could be just the "tip of the iceberg", experts have warned.Thu, 25 Nov 2010 17:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115887/social-workers-failed-teenage-girls-abused-by-sex-predators.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115887/social-workers-failed-teenage-girls-abused-by-sex-predators.htmlSocial workers failed to recognise the signs that two teenage girls in care were being systematically abused by a gang of sexual predators, a serious case review has found. (Picture from cctv footage of the case)Thu, 25 Nov 2010 14:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115889/government-pledges-6m-to-help-gps-identify-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115889/government-pledges-6m-to-help-gps-identify-carers.htmlGPs will get £6m worth of training over the next four years to help them identify carers earlier and tackle their health needs, the government has announced today. Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115890/fears-for-social-work-role-as-councils-take-over-poverty-fund.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115890/fears-for-social-work-role-as-councils-take-over-poverty-fund.htmlThe government is planning to hand councils responsibility for Social Fund poverty grants designed help people live independently. The move has prompted concerns about social workers' role from BASW's Ruth Cartwright (pictured) and other sector heads. Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115886/sharp-rise-in-children-on-child-protection-register-in-wales.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/25/115886/sharp-rise-in-children-on-child-protection-register-in-wales.htmlThe number of children on the child protection register in Wales has gone up by 9% – to 2,700 – since last year. In 2008 the number was 2,400.Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115884/cafcass-rejects-ofsted-verdict-on-its-performance.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115884/cafcass-rejects-ofsted-verdict-on-its-performance.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass has disputed Ofsted's conclusion it is a "poorly performing organisation" claiming it is based on inspection reports that do not reflect the current situation.Wed, 24 Nov 2010 16:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115872/substance-misusers-should-have-personal-budgets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/24/115872/substance-misusers-should-have-personal-budgets.htmlPersonalisation must be extended into substance misuse to give users a better chance of recovery, research this week has shown.Wed, 24 Nov 2010 11:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115881/service-demand-no-excuse-for-poor-performance-finds-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115881/service-demand-no-excuse-for-poor-performance-finds-ofsted.htmlIncreased demand for child protection and safeguarding services is not an excuse for a council's poor performance, Ofsted's annual report for 2009-10 has revealed.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115878/directors-tell-mps-sure-start-should-not-be-ring-fenced.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115878/directors-tell-mps-sure-start-should-not-be-ring-fenced.htmlCouncils want the freedom to spend Sure Start money on other early intervention funding, directors told the education select committee this morning.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115877/fears-for-skills-development-of-childrens-homes-staff.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115877/fears-for-skills-development-of-childrens-homes-staff.htmlStaff development for children's home workers could suffer when the government brings the Children's Workforce Development Council's programmes in-house.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115876/speed-not-size-of-cuts-will-damage-charities-says-narey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115876/speed-not-size-of-cuts-will-damage-charities-says-narey.htmlThe speed of the cuts being forced on councils will have a bigger impact than the size of the cuts, the chief executive of Barnardo's has told MPs.Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115865/ofsted-larger-childrens-home-providers-perform-best.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/23/115865/ofsted-larger-childrens-home-providers-perform-best.htmlLarge, independently run children's home providers perform better than small independent homes or council-run homes, according to Ofsted's annual report. John Goldup (pictured), director of development for social care at Ofsted, said: "In the independent sector, there seems to be a benefit to having access to a wider range of support resources and accumulated learning from other successful homes in the group.”Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115861/government-toughens-duty-on-councils-to-offer-short-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115861/government-toughens-duty-on-councils-to-offer-short-breaks.htmlLocal authorities will be required to notify disabled children's carers of short break services in their area and the criteria on which they will be assessed, from April 2011 if parliament approves new regulations put forward today.Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115858/benefit-cut-could-see-disabled-children-miss-family-trips.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115858/benefit-cut-could-see-disabled-children-miss-family-trips.htmlDisabled children living in residential care could be prevented from seeing their families at weekends and holidays following the government's welfare reforms.Fri, 19 Nov 2010 15:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115857/fears-for-future-of-skills-training-as-cwdc-killed-off.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/19/115857/fears-for-future-of-skills-training-as-cwdc-killed-off.htmlThe Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC) was last week tossed onto the bonfire of the quangos, prompting fears for the training of children's social workers.Fri, 19 Nov 2010 14:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115847/early-intervention-grant-expected-to-fund-short-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115847/early-intervention-grant-expected-to-fund-short-breaks.htmlShort breaks for disabled children may have to be funded from the £2bn early intervention grant announced in the comprehensive spending review it was revealed at Community Care Live Children and Families.Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115844/legal-aid-cuts-will-harm-vulnerable-warn-campaigners.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115844/legal-aid-cuts-will-harm-vulnerable-warn-campaigners.htmlCampaigners have warned that vulnerable people will suffer from government plans to remove legal aid from many social welfare cases. Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115843/scots-and-welsh-cuts-aim-to-protect-social-care-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115843/scots-and-welsh-cuts-aim-to-protect-social-care-services.htmlThe Scottish and Welsh governments have sought to protect social care from swingeing cuts in draft budgets that would see councils in the two countries face smaller reductions than counterparts in England.Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115823/unison-and-community-care-launch-website-to-support-social-care-professionals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/18/115823/unison-and-community-care-launch-website-to-support-social-care-professionals.htmlUNISON and Community Care have launched a new website today to support social care professionals. The Workplace Zone brings together Community Care and UNISON content to better support UNISON's 350,000 social care members; 40,000 of which are social workers. Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115833/public-law-outline-not-working-says-leading-magistrate.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115833/public-law-outline-not-working-says-leading-magistrate.htmlChildren's welfare is suffering because family courts are "bogged down" with unnecessary assessments, the leading magistrate in the field has warned.Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115832/sector-fears-that-children-are-falling-through-gaps.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/17/115832/sector-fears-that-children-are-falling-through-gaps.htmlCommunity Care's revelation of the number of unallocated children in need cases adds to existing concerns that many children are falling through a service provision gap.Wed, 17 Nov 2010 11:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115827/young-carers-to-bear-brunt-of-cuts-as-hidden-army-revealed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115827/young-carers-to-bear-brunt-of-cuts-as-hidden-army-revealed.htmlYoung carers will bear the brunt of government social care cuts, campaigners have claimed, after new research revealed there could be four times as many young carers in the UK than previously thought.Tue, 16 Nov 2010 11:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115822/childrens-homes-report-dramatic-drop-in-referrals.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115822/childrens-homes-report-dramatic-drop-in-referrals.htmlAlmost three-quarters of independent children's homes have seen referrals dramatically reduced or cut completely according to the Independent Children's Homes Association. (Picture: Rex Features, model released)Tue, 16 Nov 2010 11:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115818/three-in-10-councils-risk-legal-challenge-over-short-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/16/115818/three-in-10-councils-risk-legal-challenge-over-short-breaks.htmlTwenty-eight per cent of local authorities could face legal challenges over the criteria for short breaks for disabled childrenTue, 16 Nov 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/12/115807/childrens-worker-banned-for-safeguarding-failures.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/12/115807/childrens-worker-banned-for-safeguarding-failures.htmlA social worker who repeatedly failed to safeguard vulnerable children has been removed from the register.Fri, 12 Nov 2010 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115792/sharon-shoesmith-to-press-on-with-appeal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115792/sharon-shoesmith-to-press-on-with-appeal.htmlSharon Shoesmith will go through with her appeal against the High Court ruling which denied her the chance of a judicial review on her sacking as director of Haringey children's services after the death of Baby P, it has been reported.Thu, 11 Nov 2010 13:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115788/ministers-talk-up-benefits-of-early-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115788/ministers-talk-up-benefits-of-early-intervention.htmlGovernment talks up early intervention, but councils are unimpressed with funding arrangements. Judy Cooper reports (Picture: Rex)Thu, 11 Nov 2010 12:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115791/cafcass-defends-itself-after-damning-report-by-mps.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/11/115791/cafcass-defends-itself-after-damning-report-by-mps.htmlFamily courts body Cafcass has hit back at MPs who concluded it was "not fit for purpose" after care applications soared following the death of Baby P. Thu, 11 Nov 2010 12:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115784/council-halves-foster-carer-fees.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115784/council-halves-foster-carer-fees.htmlFoster carers in Slough will have their fees halved from Monday, it was decided last night.Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115779/grandparent-carers-to-be-hit-by-welfare-reform-and-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/10/115779/grandparent-carers-to-be-hit-by-welfare-reform-and-cuts.htmlGrandparents need protection from welfare and council budget cuts because their efforts are vital in keeping children out of care, according to the organisation that represents them.Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115765/social-workers-must-challenge-parents-baby-p-scr-author.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115765/social-workers-must-challenge-parents-baby-p-scr-author.htmlSocial workers have not learned the lessons from the Baby P case because government guidance prevents them from being more authoritative with parents and families, the author of the second serious case review on the toddler's death has told Community Care. (Picture: Peter Connelly, Rex Features)Tue, 09 Nov 2010 15:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115770/anger-as-deadline-to-end-child-detention-shifts-again.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/09/115770/anger-as-deadline-to-end-child-detention-shifts-again.htmlThe government's commitment to end child detention in immigration centres will not be fulfilled until March at the earliest, a revelation that has disappointed campaigners.Tue, 09 Nov 2010 14:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115767/councils-spell-out-impact-of-frontloaded-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/08/115767/councils-spell-out-impact-of-frontloaded-cuts.htmlPreventive services will be put at risk and councils in deprived areas forced to reduce spending by up to one-third by the government's frontloading of council budget cuts, the sector has warned.Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115753/split-ofsted-to-improve-social-work-focus-say-ex-inspectors.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115753/split-ofsted-to-improve-social-work-focus-say-ex-inspectors.htmlInspection of social care and education should be carried out by separate bodies, former chief inspectors have said.Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115749/governments-full-scr-publication-restriction-angers-sector.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/05/115749/governments-full-scr-publication-restriction-angers-sector.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Social workers are missing out on valuable information and learning because the...Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115741/basw-leader-accuses-gove-of-ignoring-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115741/basw-leader-accuses-gove-of-ignoring-social-work.htmlEducation secretary Michael Gove (pictured) was forced to restate his commitment to social work after the head of the British Association of Social Workers accused him of marginalising the profession.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 16:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115736/councils-want-ofsted-inspections-to-be-scrapped.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115736/councils-want-ofsted-inspections-to-be-scrapped.htmlCouncils have called for Ofsted annual inspections to be scrapped following the announcement yesterday by care minister Paul Burstow that similar inspections for adult social care would be scrapped.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115735/family-justice-findings-will-accompany-munro-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115735/family-justice-findings-will-accompany-munro-report.htmlAn interim report on the family justice review will accompany the Munro review when it is published in April, children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured) revealed today. Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115733/ncas-davis-calls-for-sector-to-protect-vulnerable-families.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115733/ncas-davis-calls-for-sector-to-protect-vulnerable-families.html President of the Association of Directors of Children's Services Marion Davis said a sector-led approach to service improvement was the only way to ensure...Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115732/ncas-burnham-slams-gove-for-downgrading-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/04/115732/ncas-burnham-slams-gove-for-downgrading-child-protection.htmlChildren's safeguarding services will suffer if Michael Gove continues his focus on education at the expense of social care, Andy Burnham, shadow education...Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115727/dunkley-accuses-dfe-of-hindering-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115727/dunkley-accuses-dfe-of-hindering-childrens-services.htmlThe Department for Education has been accused of preventing children's services departments from being able to plan strategies to withstand the biggest cuts in a generation.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 17:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115722/basw-rejects-loughtons-stance-on-inter-racial-adoption.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115722/basw-rejects-loughtons-stance-on-inter-racial-adoption.htmlSocial workers have accused children's minister Tim Loughton of making "sweeping statements" and "ill-thought out" comments about inter-racial adoptions.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115723/ofsted-recognises-improvement-at-surrey-as-intervention-ends.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115723/ofsted-recognises-improvement-at-surrey-as-intervention-ends.htmlThe government is to end its intervention at Surrey Council after an Ofsted report last month showed progress at the council's children's services department.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115721/health-staff-failed-to-refer-case-to-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/03/115721/health-staff-failed-to-refer-case-to-social-workers.htmlHealth workers in Bradford have been criticised for not making a referral to children's social services after a mother suffering from a postnatal mental disorder shook her baby son, causing him life-threatening head injuries.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 10:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115720/black-children-increasingly-over-represented-in-custody.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115720/black-children-increasingly-over-represented-in-custody.htmlThe proportion of children from ethnic minorities in custody is increasing, according to figures released by the Youth Justice Board.Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115714/loughton-adoption-hindered-by-political-correctness.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/02/115714/loughton-adoption-hindered-by-political-correctness.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has hit out at the "hints of political correctness" that are hampering children's chances of being adopted.Tue, 02 Nov 2010 12:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/01/115717/loughton-tribal-contract-was-not-value-for-money.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/11/01/115717/loughton-tribal-contract-was-not-value-for-money.htmlThe Labour government's award of a private contract to improve children's homes did not offer value for money, children's minister Tim Loughton has stated. Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115708/council-chief-warns-of-compulsory-job-losses-to-combat-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115708/council-chief-warns-of-compulsory-job-losses-to-combat-cuts.htmlBlackburn with Darwen Council will have to make compulsory redundancies to combat a cut of 30% to its budget over the next four years, its chief executive has warned.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115707/service-cuts-fear-for-looked-after-children-in-norfolk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/29/115707/service-cuts-fear-for-looked-after-children-in-norfolk.htmlLooked-after children in Norfolk could have their services cut if council proposals to slash costs are approved.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115700/scottish-councils-to-pool-commissioning-and-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/28/115700/scottish-councils-to-pool-commissioning-and-training.htmlEight councils in Scotland have agreed to pool their social care commissioning and training resources as they prepare to save £70m over five years. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 15:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115678/baby-ps-father-says-he-was-never-considered-as-carer.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115678/baby-ps-father-says-he-was-never-considered-as-carer.htmlBaby P's father claimed social services involved in the case "always took the mother's point of view" and never assessed him as a possible carer, according to an interview included in the full serious case review of the case. Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115677/what-the-spending-review-welfare-cuts-mean-for-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115677/what-the-spending-review-welfare-cuts-mean-for-social-care.htmlThe £7bn cuts in benefit spending announced in the comprehensive spending review, along with £11bn in welfare cuts from the Budget, will have significant implications for social care, says Gary Vaux.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115690/almost-half-of-all-scrs-deal-with-children-in-need.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115690/almost-half-of-all-scrs-deal-with-children-in-need.htmlNearly half the children who were subjects of serious case reviews last year were children in need, according to Ofsted's latest report.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115674/baby-p-scrs-published-in-full-in-bid-to-bring-closure.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/26/115674/baby-p-scrs-published-in-full-in-bid-to-bring-closure.htmlBoth serious case reviews on the Baby P case have been published in full today, in a move that children's minister Tim Loughton said he hoped would bring closure to the episode.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115669/children-found-working-in-freezing-field-prompt-investigation.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115669/children-found-working-in-freezing-field-prompt-investigation.htmlChildren's services in Sandwell have launched child protection investigations into the welfare of six Romanian children found working in a freezing field in Worcestershire, but have allowed the children to go back to their families. Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115670/family-group-conferences-could-save-millions-says-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115670/family-group-conferences-could-save-millions-says-report.htmlFamily group conferences could save councils millions every year by preventing children from entering the care system,.a report arguesMon, 25 Oct 2010 16:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115668/serious-harm-cases-should-not-merit-scr.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115668/serious-harm-cases-should-not-merit-scr.htmlSerious case reviews (SCRs) ought to focus on child deaths rather than children who have suffered serious harm, according to a government review of SCRs over the past seven years.Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115667/csr-analysis-future-unclear-for-childrens-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115667/csr-analysis-future-unclear-for-childrens-social-care.htmlNow the comprehensive spending review guillotine has fallen, the messy chopping up what's left with tiny local axes has begun. For children's services this local bargaining looks to be crucial in determining the final impact of Treasurer George Osborne's announcements last week.Mon, 25 Oct 2010 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115663/up-to-50000-jobs-at-risk-in-social-care-union-warns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/25/115663/up-to-50000-jobs-at-risk-in-social-care-union-warns.htmlUp to 50,000 social care workers’ jobs could be at risk as council budgets are slashed by 28%, a union leader has warned. (Pic: Geoffrey Robinson/Rex)Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115661/unions-fear-privatisation-in-london-councils-services-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115661/unions-fear-privatisation-in-london-councils-services-merger.htmlUnions are concerned that a move by three London councils to merge will see social workers becoming remote from families and that more services will be privatised. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 17:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115656/baby-p-social-workers-lose-appeal-against-sacking.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115656/baby-p-social-workers-lose-appeal-against-sacking.htmlThe social workers at the centre of the Baby P case – Maria Ward (far left) and Gillie Christou – have had their cases for unfair dismissal thrown out by an employment tribunal. (Picture Mark St George/Rex)Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115662/csr-housing-cuts-risk-deepening-homelessness-and-poverty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115662/csr-housing-cuts-risk-deepening-homelessness-and-poverty.htmlHomelessness and poverty will rise on the back of cuts to housing funding and benefits announced in this week's comprehensive spending review (CSR), sector leaders have warned. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115657/welfare-changes-will-increase-pressure-on-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115657/welfare-changes-will-increase-pressure-on-childrens-services.htmlWelfare reforms announced in the comprehensive spending review are likely to create more children in need Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115649/tory-councils-target-100m-saving-by-merging-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/22/115649/tory-councils-target-100m-saving-by-merging-all-services.htmlThree Tory councils have announced plans to merge all their service to save up to £100m a year.Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115641/2bn-early-intervention-grant-not-enough-say-councils.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115641/2bn-early-intervention-grant-not-enough-say-councils.htmlThe government's £2bn grant for early intervention will not be enough to save many early intervention and prevention services from cuts, council leaders have warned. (Picture: Rex)Thu, 21 Oct 2010 15:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115637/high-thresholds-leaving-children-without-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115637/high-thresholds-leaving-children-without-social-workers.htmlChildren are suffering because of increasingly high thresholds in children's social care, a leading professor of social work has claimed.Thu, 21 Oct 2010 13:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115636/minister-reverses-labour-pledge-to-abolish-family-court-fees.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/21/115636/minister-reverses-labour-pledge-to-abolish-family-court-fees.htmlJustice minister Jonathan Djanogly has reversed Labour's promise to abolish court fees charged to councils for children's care and supervision proceedings, it was announced today. Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115629/council-budget-cuts-may-cancel-out-boost-for-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115629/council-budget-cuts-may-cancel-out-boost-for-care.htmlLocal government budget cuts of 28% threaten to cancel out the extra money found by the government for social care.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115623/osborne-cuts-dfes-childrens-services-budget-by-12.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115623/osborne-cuts-dfes-childrens-services-budget-by-12.htmlFunding for vulnerable children and families will be streamlined in a new early intervention grant, but the Department for Education's non-schools budget will be cut by 12% by 2014-15, chancellor George Osborne (pictured) said in today's comprehensive spending review. Picture: Steve Back/RexWed, 20 Oct 2010 15:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115619/osborne-finds-2bn-to-help-social-care-weather-council-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115619/osborne-finds-2bn-to-help-social-care-weather-council-cuts.htmlAdult social care will receive an extra £2bn a year by 2014-15 to help the sector withstand massive cuts to council funding announced today by Chancellor George Osborne in the spending review.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115624/campaigners-reject-osbornes-child-poverty-claims.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115624/campaigners-reject-osbornes-child-poverty-claims.htmlCampaigners have blasted George Osborne's declaration that public spending cuts will have "no measurable impact" on child poverty.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115608/social-care-faces-up-to-spending-review-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115608/social-care-faces-up-to-spending-review-cuts.htmlSocial care is facing its biggest funding cuts in decades as the government prepares to announce its comprehensive spending review at 12.30 today. (Pictured: chancellor George Osborne; credit: Rex)Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115618/intervention-board-withdrawn-from-swansea.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115618/intervention-board-withdrawn-from-swansea.htmlSwansea children's services has had its intervention board withdrawn after a positive report published by the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115627/schools-must-share-burden-of-children-and-families-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/20/115627/schools-must-share-burden-of-children-and-families-support.htmlSchools will have take on some of the children and families support work now carried out by children's services, sector experts say.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115617/ministry-may-pay-councils-to-achieve-youth-justice-targets.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115617/ministry-may-pay-councils-to-achieve-youth-justice-targets.htmlThe Ministry of Justice is considering paying councils to help achieve youth justice targets, as part of justice reforms, Community Care has learned.Tue, 19 Oct 2010 15:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115616/pupil-premium-for-looked-after-children-considered.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115616/pupil-premium-for-looked-after-children-considered.htmlThe government is consulting on a pupil premium specifically for looked-after children because they are two-and-a-half times more likely than their mainstream counterparts to have special education needs (SEN), research out today shows.Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115615/fostering-social-worker-struck-off-for-lying-to-manager.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115615/fostering-social-worker-struck-off-for-lying-to-manager.htmlA fostering assessment social worker who lied to her manager about her efforts to become a foster carer has been struck off the social care register.Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115613/rapid-response-social-work-teams-proposed-for-olympics.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115613/rapid-response-social-work-teams-proposed-for-olympics.htmlSpecialist social workers will form a rapid response team to tackle child protection issues during the London 2012 Olympic Games, Community Care has learned. (Picture credit: Bronagh Miskelly)Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115598/social-care-charities-must-adapt-to-survive-spending-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115598/social-care-charities-must-adapt-to-survive-spending-cuts.htmlSocial care charities will need to become less reliant on public funding or go into partnership with each other to win public contracts if they are to survive a "maelstrom" of government cuts and funding changes.Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115609/nice-backs-reflective-practice-for-childrens-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/19/115609/nice-backs-reflective-practice-for-childrens-social-work.htmlAll children's social work training should include reflective practice according to the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE).Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/18/115607/community-care-readers-vote-to-scrap-cwdc-and-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/18/115607/community-care-readers-vote-to-scrap-cwdc-and-ofsted.htmlThe Children's Workforce Development Council and Ofsted are the quangos Community Care readers would most like to see axed, a snap poll has shown.Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115599/kent-split-poses-every-child-matters-questions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115599/kent-split-poses-every-child-matters-questions.htmlA proposed reorganisation at Kent Council will see the separation of children's services and education, in a move that appears to reverse the integration achieved under Every Child Matters.Fri, 15 Oct 2010 16:50:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115577/yjb-to-be-scrapped-in-quango-reform.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115577/yjb-to-be-scrapped-in-quango-reform.htmlThe Youth Justice Board is to be scrapped as part of the government's "bonfire of the quangos" it was announced today, but the future of other social care public bodies remains uncertain. (Picture: Dominic's on flickr)Fri, 15 Oct 2010 11:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115583/court-rules-councils-must-house-asylum-seeker-care-leavers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/15/115583/court-rules-councils-must-house-asylum-seeker-care-leavers.htmlLocal authorities must provide accommodation for 18-year-old asylum seekers leaving care, according to a Court of Appeal ruling.Fri, 15 Oct 2010 09:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115580/council-set-to-outsource-social-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115580/council-set-to-outsource-social-services.htmlSwindon Council last night approved proposals to move adult social workers into a social enterprise alongside community health colleagues from the local primary care trust.Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115581/ncb-raises-commissioning-concerns-with-dh.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115581/ncb-raises-commissioning-concerns-with-dh.htmlThe National Children's Bureau (NCB) is negotiating with the Department of Health (DH) over the future of children's services under the White Paper.Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115559/burstow-gives-qualified-backing-to-social-work-contract.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/14/115559/burstow-gives-qualified-backing-to-social-work-contract.htmlCare services minister Paul Burstow has given a qualified backing to Community Care and Unison's campaign for fairer working conditions.Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115572/access-to-talking-therapies-still-patchy-finds-mind.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115572/access-to-talking-therapies-still-patchy-finds-mind.htmlOne in 10 people referred for talking therapies is waiting more than two years for treatment, to the detriment of their mental health and job prospects, Mind reveals today.Wed, 13 Oct 2010 20:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115558/exclusive-burstow-announces-4.4m-boost-for-carers-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115558/exclusive-burstow-announces-4.4m-boost-for-carers-support.htmlIn an exclusive interview, care services minister Paul Burstow has revealed details of targeted measures to improve awareness of carers among frontline professionals and give charities such as Carers UK the means to provide training themselves. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 15:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115566/kent-splits-childrens-services-from-education.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115566/kent-splits-childrens-services-from-education.htmlChildren's services and education are to be separated in a proposed reorganisation of departments at Kent Council. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 14:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115561/young-children-say-they-have-spotted-child-neglect-in-others.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115561/young-children-say-they-have-spotted-child-neglect-in-others.htmlSixty-one per cent of children have spotted signs of child neglect in their classrooms, playgrounds and neighbourhoods, according to a survey from Action for Children.Wed, 13 Oct 2010 10:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115560/families-should-have-a-legal-right-to-group-conferences.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/13/115560/families-should-have-a-legal-right-to-group-conferences.htmlAll families should have a legal entitlement to a family group conference when concerns are raised about them, according to a commission set up by the charity 4Children. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 10:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115556/jim-gamble-blasts-government-over-ceop-merger.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115556/jim-gamble-blasts-government-over-ceop-merger.htmlThe government's refusal to consider keeping the child exploitation and online protection centre (CEOP) independent is more about "saving face than saving children" its chief executive told MPs today.Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115554/senior-family-court-judges-back-cafcass-at-mps-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115554/senior-family-court-judges-back-cafcass-at-mps-inquiry.htmlTwo of the country's top family judges have backed Cafcass, with reservations, claiming there has been no deterioration in the quality of children's guardian reports despite the increase in public law care applications.Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115553/top-family-judge-warns-of-longer-care-proceedings-delays.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/12/115553/top-family-judge-warns-of-longer-care-proceedings-delays.htmlBritain's top family judge has warned of even longer delays in care proceedings if the government fails to fully resource the family courts and children's services.Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115546/welsh-councils-urged-to-track-failed-adoptions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115546/welsh-councils-urged-to-track-failed-adoptions.htmlCouncils in Wales should track the number of adoptions which fail according to an Adoption UK report. Mon, 11 Oct 2010 17:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115541/fallout-from-benefits-cuts-set-to-land-on-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115541/fallout-from-benefits-cuts-set-to-land-on-social-workers.htmlThe chancellor's announcement last week of a benefits cap could see children's services in some areas swamped with new cases, experts are warning.Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115540/media-and-public-access-to-family-courts-put-on-hold.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115540/media-and-public-access-to-family-courts-put-on-hold.htmlThe opening up of the family courts to the media and public has been put on hold until the outcome of the Family Justice Review is known, ministers announced today. (Pic: Rex Features) Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115539/yjb-report-calls-for-review-of-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/11/115539/yjb-report-calls-for-review-of-thresholds.htmlThresholds for referrals to children's services departments need to be reviewed, according to a report on the problems between youth offending teams and social workers.Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115530/social-worker-re-instated-to-gscc-register-after-appeal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115530/social-worker-re-instated-to-gscc-register-after-appeal.htmlA social worker has successfully appealed his removal from the social care register after a tribunal found there was no "adequate or proper evidence" he molested three disabled boys in his careFri, 08 Oct 2010 16:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115528/john-healey-named-as-labours-shadow-health-secretary.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/08/115528/john-healey-named-as-labours-shadow-health-secretary.htmlFormer housing minister John Healey has been named as the new shadow health secretary...Fri, 08 Oct 2010 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115518/dfe-how-early-intervention-could-be-saved-from-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115518/dfe-how-early-intervention-could-be-saved-from-cuts.htmlEarly intervention projects could be funded by a national pooled budget to save them from the ravages of public spending cuts. A spokesperson for the Department for Education said the pooling of resources between departments was among the options being considered. Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115513/too-far-too-fast-kings-fund-urges-caution-on-health-reforms.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115513/too-far-too-fast-kings-fund-urges-caution-on-health-reforms.html The King's Fund has called on ministers to reconsider the speed and scale of new health reforms warning of "significant risks" at a time of increasing financial...Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115508/munros-ics-proposal-unrealistic-says-expert.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/07/115508/munros-ics-proposal-unrealistic-says-expert.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro's suggestion that the Integrated Children's System could be developed to support social work decision-making is unrealistic, according to an ICS expert. (Pictured: Eileen Munro)Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115503/three-more-to-resign-from-ceop.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115503/three-more-to-resign-from-ceop.htmlThree senior managers of the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP) are likely to follow chief executive Jim Gamble out of the door in the furore over government plans for the organisation's future.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115502/cameron-vows-to-protect-troubled-families-despite-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115502/cameron-vows-to-protect-troubled-families-despite-cuts.htmlDavid Cameron has insisted the government can invest in early years projects and help put troubled families back on track, despite looming spending cuts.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:12:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115498/use-caf-to-assess-all-childrens-extra-needs-report-urges.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115498/use-caf-to-assess-all-childrens-extra-needs-report-urges.htmlThe common assessment framework (CAF) should be developed into the standardised tool for assessing children's additional needs, a report on early intervention has found.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115491/ceop-chief-quits-over-child-protection-concerns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115491/ceop-chief-quits-over-child-protection-concerns.htmlThe government's quest to cull quangos has come under fire again after the head of Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), Jim Gamble (pictured), resigned in protest at moves to merge the body into the National Crime Agency in 2013, claiming children would suffer as a result.Wed, 06 Oct 2010 10:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115497/boost-for-adcs-as-report-backs-early-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/06/115497/boost-for-adcs-as-report-backs-early-intervention.html The case for early intervention is given a boost today in a report by the Centre for Excellence and Outcomes in Children and Young People's Services (C4EO). Grasping...Wed, 06 Oct 2010 10:36:16 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115493/arrogant-social-worker-removed-child-from-carer.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/05/115493/arrogant-social-worker-removed-child-from-carer.html A social worker has been branded "arrogant and impetuous" by the General Social Care Council after she removed a child from care against the advice of colleagues. Jeanette...Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:30:10 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115485/osborne-axes-child-benefit-and-confirms-welfare-cap.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115485/osborne-axes-child-benefit-and-confirms-welfare-cap.html Families on welfare benefits will have their payments capped at about £500 a week from 2013 while child benefit will be withdrawn from higher-income families,...Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115484/suffolk-could-outsource-child-protection-despite-legal-risks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115484/suffolk-could-outsource-child-protection-despite-legal-risks.html When Suffolk Council revealed plans to outsource almost all of its public services the most obvious...Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115483/control-of-care-cash-would-save-councils-billions-says-lga.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115483/control-of-care-cash-would-save-councils-billions-says-lga.htmlCouncils could save £6bn a year if they had local control over integrated health and social care budgets, according to the Local Government Association.Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115482/childrens-minister-tim-loughton-joins-frontline-for-a-week.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115482/childrens-minister-tim-loughton-joins-frontline-for-a-week.htmlLeading up to the release of Professor Eileen Munro's first report on children's services, children's minister Tim Loughton spent last week shadowing frontline social workers in Stockport. He told Community Care about his experience.Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115478/munro-should-not-consider-cost-says-loughton.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/04/115478/munro-should-not-consider-cost-says-loughton.htmlProfessor Eileen Munro has not been told to consider the cost of any of her recommendations children's minister Tim Loughton has told Community Care.Mon, 04 Oct 2010 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115476/munro-ofsted-needs-to-take-on-board-social-workers-views.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115476/munro-ofsted-needs-to-take-on-board-social-workers-views.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Ofsted inspections need to incorporate the views of service users and give more voice to social workers on the frontline,...Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:41:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115475/council-cuts-will-damage-social-care-warn-doctors-leaders.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115475/council-cuts-will-damage-social-care-warn-doctors-leaders.htmlGovernment plans for closer working between health and social care could be damaged because of savage cuts to local council budgets, doctors' leaders are...Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115474/munro-report-welcomed-but-little-mention-of-thresholds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115474/munro-report-welcomed-but-little-mention-of-thresholds.htmlSector leaders have welcomed Professor Eileen Munro’s first report identifying the problems within child protection but some experts have criticised her failure to tackle the issue of thresholds.Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115456/serious-case-reviews-should-look-at-good-practice-says-munro.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115456/serious-case-reviews-should-look-at-good-practice-says-munro.html Serious case reviews should also look at good practice as the current system does not support a learning culture, Professor Eileen Munro said today. The first instalment of Munro's review of England's children's services found that social workers are failing to meet the needs of children because they are too focused on complying with regulations and meeting targets. A report on serious case reviews published alongside the review said serious case reviews needed to focus more on learning and less on the review process itself. This report was written by a panel of practitioners recruited though local safeguarding children boards across England to inform Munro's work. These practitioners said the emphasis on getting the report right was constraining and detracted from learning. They also emphasised that serious case reviews should be set in the context of good practice and a broader spectrum of safeguarding, not just the severe end of the spectrum and when things go wrong....Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115454/munro-review-social-workers-fail-children-due-to-focus-on-rules.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/10/01/115454/munro-review-social-workers-fail-children-due-to-focus-on-rules.htmlSocial workers are failing to meet the needs of children because they are too focused on complying with regulations and meeting targets, according to the first instalment of Professor Eileen Munro's (left) review of children's social services in England, published today. (pic credit: Giles Park)Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115452/cafcass-to-allocate-cases-to-duty-guardians-for-further-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115452/cafcass-to-allocate-cases-to-duty-guardians-for-further-year.htmlTemporary measures which permitted family courts body Cafcass to allocate cases to teams of duty guardians are to be extended for another year until October 2011.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 16:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115451/family-justice-review-chair-we-cant-go-on-like-this.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115451/family-justice-review-chair-we-cant-go-on-like-this.htmlEXCLUSIVE: An "institutionalised lack of trust" in local authority social work and a tendency for professionals to blame each other are among the early concerns identified by the family justice review. Speaking to Community Care, review chair David Norgrove said there was an underlying theme of "deep concern" regarding court delays and the cost of delivering justice.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115448/number-of-children-in-care-rises-by-6.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115448/number-of-children-in-care-rises-by-6.htmlThe number of looked-after children in England has risen by 6% (64, 400) since last year, new statistics from the Department for Education show.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115443/adcs-warns-of-perfect-storm-in-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/30/115443/adcs-warns-of-perfect-storm-in-child-protection.htmlEarly intervention funding must be ring-fenced to prevent a "perfect storm" of rising child protection referrals and a reduction in resources according to directors of children's services (president, Marion Davis pictured). Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/27/115432/croydon-training-centre-for-social-workers-part-of-jobs-drive.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/27/115432/croydon-training-centre-for-social-workers-part-of-jobs-drive.htmlCroydon Council couples launch of training centre with pay rise and recruitment drive for children's social workers. The south London council also promises lower caseloads. But BASW sounds warning noteMon, 27 Sep 2010 12:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115423/cafcass-seeks-stability-as-government-reviews-its-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115423/cafcass-seeks-stability-as-government-reviews-its-future.htmlCafcass has pledged that it is "business as usual" after being listed as one of several public bodies whose future is under review by government.Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115408/ilf-to-shut-and-cafcass-under-review-in-bonfire-of-quangos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115408/ilf-to-shut-and-cafcass-under-review-in-bonfire-of-quangos.htmlThe Independent Living Fund will shut while the future of family courts body Cafcass is in doubt as part of a government cull of quangos, it has emerged. (Image: Dominic's on Flickr)Fri, 24 Sep 2010 16:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115418/more-councils-likely-to-follow-suffolk-in-outsourcing-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115418/more-councils-likely-to-follow-suffolk-in-outsourcing-services.htmlCouncils are likely to outsource more and more social care services to the private and voluntary sectors as massive spending cuts biteFri, 24 Sep 2010 16:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115411/council-launches-childrens-social-work-academy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/24/115411/council-launches-childrens-social-work-academy.htmlCroydon launched one of the first social work academies in the UK yesterday. The Children, Young People and Learners Academy will provide new and experienced social workers with structured training.Fri, 24 Sep 2010 13:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115407/council-bids-to-outsource-nearly-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115407/council-bids-to-outsource-nearly-all-services.htmlSuffolk Council is planning to outsource nearly all its services to cut costs by 30%.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115403/senior-lib-dem-accuses-government-over-child-protection.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/23/115403/senior-lib-dem-accuses-government-over-child-protection.htmlA leading Liberal Democrat children's spokesperson has accused the coalition of radically changing child protection policy without condidering its impact.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115397/carers-of-children-with-autism-win-high-court-ruling.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115397/carers-of-children-with-autism-win-high-court-ruling.htmlForty-one families with autistic children were wrongly told their needs could not be assessed because of a lack of resources, according to a High Court ruling against Northern Ireland's Western Health and Social Care Trust.Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115396/tribunal-hears-baby-p-social-workers-unfair-dismissal-claim.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/21/115396/tribunal-hears-baby-p-social-workers-unfair-dismissal-claim.htmlThe social workers who admitted failing to safeguard Peter Connelly (Baby P) will challenge their dismissal by Haringey Council at an employment tribunal today.Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115386/cleggs-council-finance-changes-could-benefit-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115386/cleggs-council-finance-changes-could-benefit-social-care.htmlSocial care could benefit from Nick Clegg's announcement today of changes to council finance. During his leader's speech to the Liberal Democrat conference, Clegg said he would give local authorities the freedom to borrow money against taxes raised by business rates to fund new developments. Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115388/social-workers-need-more-input-in-tackling-child-poverty.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115388/social-workers-need-more-input-in-tackling-child-poverty.htmlSocial workers should be more involved in efforts to tackle child poverty in the UK, according to the co-chair of the National College of Social Work.Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115375/dfe-to-boost-spread-of-gp-style-social-work-practices.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115375/dfe-to-boost-spread-of-gp-style-social-work-practices.htmlIndependent social work practices for children in care will be piloted more widely as part of the government's Big Society agenda, the Department for Education has revealed. Pictured: personal adviser Cate White from the Evolve YP social work practice in Staffordshire talks to a young person in care (credit: Ed Maynard)Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115373/young-mans-suicide-prompts-care-leaver-case-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/20/115373/young-mans-suicide-prompts-care-leaver-case-review.htmlConcern about support for young adult care-leavers has been raised following the suicide of a former child in care in Waltham Forest, London.Mon, 20 Sep 2010 13:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115347/media-access-to-family-courts-could-be-reversed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/17/115347/media-access-to-family-courts-could-be-reversed.htmlThe Ministry of Justice is planning to review controversial measures passed by the previous government that would allow the media more access to family court cases.Fri, 17 Sep 2010 13:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115339/pool-the-commissioning-of-childrens-health-and-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115339/pool-the-commissioning-of-childrens-health-and-social-care.html All commissioning for children's health and social care services in England should be pooled and delivered by local partnerships, a government-commissioned...Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115337/ofsted-praises-haringeys-childrens-safeguarding-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/16/115337/ofsted-praises-haringeys-childrens-safeguarding-work.htmlSafeguarding at Haringey Council's children's services department has been praised by Ofsted following an unannounced two-day inspection (pic credit Gavin Rogers/Rex Features)Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115332/welsh-safeguarding-project-to-embed-consultant-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115332/welsh-safeguarding-project-to-embed-consultant-social-workers.htmlConsultant social workers in multi-agency teams are set to be embedded in children's services in Wales with the launch today of a safeguarding project.Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115331/government-denies-serious-case-review-u-turn.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115331/government-denies-serious-case-review-u-turn.htmlThe government may have to retract its promise to retrospectively publish four serious case reviews in full, as one of these reviews might put surviving siblings at risk, children's minister Tim Loughton has admitted.Wed, 15 Sep 2010 16:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115329/contactpoint-replacement-may-not-be-it-based-says-loughton.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115329/contactpoint-replacement-may-not-be-it-based-says-loughton.htmlContactPoint may not be replaced by a computerised system, children's minister Tim Loughton said today.Wed, 15 Sep 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115328/shoesmith-baby-p-death-did-not-represent-service-failure.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/15/115328/shoesmith-baby-p-death-did-not-represent-service-failure.htmlThe death of baby P did not demonstrate a systematic departmental failure, Sharon Shoesmith (pictured) said today. Picture: Rex FeaturesWed, 15 Sep 2010 11:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115318/more-social-care-input-urged-on-special-educational-needs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115318/more-social-care-input-urged-on-special-educational-needs.htmlSchools need to work more closely with social care services to ensure children with complex and severe special needs receive support, according to an Ofsted report.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115314/childrens-homes-should-be-commissioned-nationally.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115314/childrens-homes-should-be-commissioned-nationally.htmlChildren's homes and advocacy services should be commissioned nationally according to looked-after children's charity Voice.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 11:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115317/how-can-caseloads-be-managed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115317/how-can-caseloads-be-managed.htmlSocial workers want caseloads to be capped but what is the best way of doing this? Tue, 14 Sep 2010 10:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115315/social-care-should-deal-with-crimes-by-under-14s-says-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115315/social-care-should-deal-with-crimes-by-under-14s-says-report.htmlThe age of criminal responsibility in England and Wales should be raised from 10 to 14, and offences committed by children under 14 dealt with by social care, according to a report published this week.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 10:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115313/more-support-for-parents-of-disabled-children-urged.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/14/115313/more-support-for-parents-of-disabled-children-urged.htmlEvery Disabled Child Matters is calling for next month's government spending review to allocate £8m over five years to supporting parents of disabled children.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 09:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/13/115310/childrens-home-worker-in-scotland-struck-off-for-stalking-boy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/13/115310/childrens-home-worker-in-scotland-struck-off-for-stalking-boy.htmlA residential childcare worker who stalked a 16-year-old boy has become the first children's home worker to be struck off...Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/10/115298/fears-over-future-of-childrens-homes-improvement.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/10/115298/fears-over-future-of-childrens-homes-improvement.htmlThe government's decision not to award a children's homes contract to the Tribal group has sparked concerns over what will replace it.Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/09/115271/birmingham-slashes-social-work-student-placements-by-half.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/09/115271/birmingham-slashes-social-work-student-placements-by-half.htmlBirmingham Council has slashed the number of placements it provides for social work students by more than half, Community Care has learned.Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115261/one-in-six-social-workers-have-more-than-40-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115261/one-in-six-social-workers-have-more-than-40-cases.htmlSixteen per cent of social workers have more than 40 cases on the go, while nearly 90% say high case-loads are affecting their ability to practise good social work, a Community Care survey has revealed. (Picture: Rex Features, posed by model)Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115266/scr-clears-social-workers-in-case-of-mum-who-killed-daughters.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115266/scr-clears-social-workers-in-case-of-mum-who-killed-daughters.htmlThe murder of two Cambridgeshire girls by their mother in 2007 could not have been prevented by social workers or any other professionals, according to the serious case review.Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115265/government-reverses-award-of-tribal-contract.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/08/115265/government-reverses-award-of-tribal-contract.htmlThe coalition has overturned the former government's decision to award a contract for improving children's homes to the private consultancy group Tribal.Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/07/115263/interim-guidance-for-guardians-may-be-extended-for-another-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/07/115263/interim-guidance-for-guardians-may-be-extended-for-another-year.htmlTemporary measures that permitted Cafcass to allocate cases to duty guardians are likely to be extended for another year, Cafcass chief executive Anthony Douglas (pictured) said today.Tue, 07 Sep 2010 11:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115243/council-set-to-halve-foster-carers-fees.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/06/115243/council-set-to-halve-foster-carers-fees.htmlFoster carers working for Slough Council face a 50% cut in the weekly fee paid for their first child.Mon, 06 Sep 2010 12:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115249/role-of-lawyers-in-family-courts-at-risk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115249/role-of-lawyers-in-family-courts-at-risk.htmlThe role of lawyers in the family courts could be at risk under changes being considered by the Family Justice Review, Community Care has learned.Fri, 03 Sep 2010 17:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115237/unqualified-staff-handling-child-protection-cases-in-suffolk.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/03/115237/unqualified-staff-handling-child-protection-cases-in-suffolk.htmlEight children on child protection plans in Suffolk are at risk because unqualified staff are responsible for the day-to-day work on the cases, according to Ofsted's latest unannounced inspection report on council safeguarding.Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115230/council-to-cut-8m-from-social-care-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115230/council-to-cut-8m-from-social-care-budget.htmlFunding for social care services at Edinburgh Council will be cut by nearly £8m over the next three years.Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115229/scottish-councils-told-to-run-residential-child-care-better.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115229/scottish-councils-told-to-run-residential-child-care-better.htmlCouncils in Scotland need to have a better understanding of residential child care costs if they are to provide good value and efficiency, according to Audit Scotland.Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115228/councils-warn-home-secretary-over-migrant-cap-impact.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115228/councils-warn-home-secretary-over-migrant-cap-impact.htmlCouncil chiefs have told the Home Office that a cap on overseas social workers will weaken child protection teams, putting vulnerable children at risk. The Association of Directors of Children's Services urged ministers including Theresa May, home secretary (pictured) to rethink temporary restrictions on the number of skilled workers from non-EU countries allowed to enter the country.Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115226/shoesmith-wins-green-light-for-new-appeal-over-sacking.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/02/115226/shoesmith-wins-green-light-for-new-appeal-over-sacking.htmlSharon Shoesmith has been given leave to appeal over her sacking as Haringey's director of children's services after the death of Baby P.Thu, 02 Sep 2010 10:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115205/what-is-the-alternative-to-cafcass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115205/what-is-the-alternative-to-cafcass.htmlDoubts over Cafcass's future fuel speculation over what could replace it. (Pictured: Cafcass chief executive Anthony Douglas)Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115206/70m-extra-cost-of-hiring-agency-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115206/70m-extra-cost-of-hiring-agency-social-workers.htmlAgency social workers could be costing councils £70m a year more than if permanent staff were employed to perform the same roles, Community Care can reveal. (Pic credit: Alamy) Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115203/gscc-chief-aims-for-strong-legacy-after-reform-plan-dashed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/09/01/115203/gscc-chief-aims-for-strong-legacy-after-reform-plan-dashed.htmlThe General Social Care Council will strive to leave a strong legacy for the sector's workforce when the organisation is disbanded in 2012, its chief executive has said.Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115200/personalisation-for-children-fails-to-take-off.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115200/personalisation-for-children-fails-to-take-off.htmlPersonalisation budgets for children are failing to take off because primary care trusts are not helping with funding according to a progress report on the pilots, one year on. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115199/improvement-board-looms-for-birmingham.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115199/improvement-board-looms-for-birmingham.htmlThe revelation that so many cases were not allocated to children's social workers will fuel speculation that an improvement board will be imposed on Birmingham Council.Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115197/birmingham-violated-law-by-failing-to-allocate-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/31/115197/birmingham-violated-law-by-failing-to-allocate-cases.htmlBirmingham may have opened itself up to legal challenges by failing to allocate cases involving looked-after children and children in need to qualified social workers.Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:23:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115188/adcs-defends-birminghams-unallocated-caseload.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115188/adcs-defends-birminghams-unallocated-caseload.htmlThe Association of Directors of Children’s Services has blamed pressures on departments for Birmingham's failure to allocate a qualified social worker to every child in need and looked-after child. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115167/850-birmingham-children-in-need-lack-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115167/850-birmingham-children-in-need-lack-social-workers.htmlA quarter of Birmingham's children in need, a total of 852, do not have an allocated social worker, while 12% of children in care do not have one either, Community Care has learned. (Pictured: Birmingham Council building, Rex Features)Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115173/council-suspends-childrens-services-director.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115173/council-suspends-childrens-services-director.htmlDerby Council has suspended its director of children’s services after only four months in the job.Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115169/birminghams-failure-to-allocate-children-in-care-illegal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115169/birminghams-failure-to-allocate-children-in-care-illegal.htmlBirmingham Council's failure to allocate every looked-after child to a social worker is illegal, the government has confirmed. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115168/loughton-tells-councils-to-cut-red-tape-on-foster-carers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/27/115168/loughton-tells-councils-to-cut-red-tape-on-foster-carers.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has ordered all local authorities to free foster carers from "over-zealous restrictions and bureaucracy".Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115166/gove-fury-after-balls-accuses-him-of-failing-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115166/gove-fury-after-balls-accuses-him-of-failing-social-work.htmlEducation secretary Michael Gove has defended the government's record in children's social work after Labour accused him of failing the profession.Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115163/cuts-could-kill-off-social-work-reform-warns-balls.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/26/115163/cuts-could-kill-off-social-work-reform-warns-balls.html"Reckless" public spending cuts are putting social work reforms at risk, the shadow education secretary Ed Balls has said. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115152/minister-confident-that-vacancy-rate-will-fall.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115152/minister-confident-that-vacancy-rate-will-fall.htmlAction is being taken to address high vacancy rates and other problems in social work, children's minister Tim Loughton has insisted.Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115153/one-in-10-social-work-posts-vacant.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115153/one-in-10-social-work-posts-vacant.htmlOne in 10 social work posts are empty, Community Care has found. Our investigation shows that social worker vacancy rates have increased despite the millions of pounds that have been pumped into staff recruitment and reforming the profession. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115160/budget-hits-poorest-families-hardest-says-ifs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/25/115160/budget-hits-poorest-families-hardest-says-ifs.htmlLow income families with children will be hit hardest by the coalition government’s first Budget, the Institute for Fiscal Studies has claimed.Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115157/sterilise-parents-who-abuse-children-top-professor-says.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115157/sterilise-parents-who-abuse-children-top-professor-says.htmlSocial workers should be able to recommend irreversible sterilisation for parents who abuse their children, according to a top academic.Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115151/tribunal-rejects-whistle-blowers-haringey-claim.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115151/tribunal-rejects-whistle-blowers-haringey-claim.htmlHaringey whistle-blower Nevres Kemal has lost her victimisation claim against the council.Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115146/pioneering-job-based-training-for-social-workers-to-start.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/24/115146/pioneering-job-based-training-for-social-workers-to-start.htmlAn employment-based fast-track training route for children's social workers will start next month after the General Social Care Council approved it. Picture: Rex FeaturesTue, 24 Aug 2010 11:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115149/ministers-struggling-to-resolve-future-of-youth-justice.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/23/115149/ministers-struggling-to-resolve-future-of-youth-justice.htmlMinisters are said to be struggling to agree on how far responsibility for youth justice could be devolved to local authorities if, as expected, the Youth Justice Board is disbanded next year. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115133/youth-justice-board-set-to-be-scrapped-within-a-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115133/youth-justice-board-set-to-be-scrapped-within-a-year.htmlThe Youth Justice Board is likely to be disbanded within a year and its main functions transferred to the Ministry of Justice, Community Care understands.Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115113/social-worker-struck-off-after-sexual-assault.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/20/115113/social-worker-struck-off-after-sexual-assault.htmlA children's charity social worker who was convicted of sexual assault has been struck off the register in Scotland. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:21:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115109/name-the-bureaucrats-who-hamper-fostering-says-minister.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115109/name-the-bureaucrats-who-hamper-fostering-says-minister.htmlChildren's minister Tim Loughton has called on foster carers to let him know which councils are "excessively bureaucratic". Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115105/adviser-calls-on-government-to-scrap-cafcass-and-dilute-yjb.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115105/adviser-calls-on-government-to-scrap-cafcass-and-dilute-yjb.htmlCafcass should be scrapped and the roles of local safeguarding children boards and the Youth Justice Board watered down in order to cut bureaucracy, a government adviser has suggested.Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:09:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115104/catholic-adoption-charity-must-lift-ban-on-gay-people.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/19/115104/catholic-adoption-charity-must-lift-ban-on-gay-people.htmlA Catholic adoption charity has been told it cannot discriminate against gay and lesbian adopters by restricting its services to heterosexual couples only. Thu, 19 Aug 2010 09:22:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/18/115099/tuc-100-unfair-cuts-in-coalitions-first-100-days.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/18/115099/tuc-100-unfair-cuts-in-coalitions-first-100-days.htmlThe Trades Union Congress has accused the coalition of making 100 "unfair" spending cuts in its first 100 days, hitting vulnerable groups.Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115093/at-risk-children-not-in-education-slip-through-the-net.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115093/at-risk-children-not-in-education-slip-through-the-net.htmlVulnerable children are slipping through the net as local authorities struggle to identify children missing from education, according to a survey by Ofsted.Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115096/gary-glitter-e-mailer-allowed-to-continue-social-work.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/17/115096/gary-glitter-e-mailer-allowed-to-continue-social-work.htmlA social worker who circulated an e-mail apparently showing Gary Glitter carrying a child in a plastic bag has been allowed to continue practising in Scotland.Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115087/backing-for-troubleshooters-at-doncaster-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115087/backing-for-troubleshooters-at-doncaster-childrens-services.htmlA new management team charged with turning around Doncaster Council's troubled children's services has won the backing of an independent expert. Peter Kemp (pictured), chair of Doncaster Children's Board, welcomed the appointment of the first permanent senior management team at the council for five years.Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115090/more-social-workers-using-the-web-in-adoption-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115090/more-social-workers-using-the-web-in-adoption-services.htmlSocial workers are increasingly using the web to place children with adopters and foster carers.Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:28:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115088/children-fear-parental-drug-and-alcohol-use-childline-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/16/115088/children-fear-parental-drug-and-alcohol-use-childline-finds.htmlCalls to ChildLine from children who talked about parental drug and alcohol misuse represents four per cent of all (156,729) children counselled, the NSPCC has revealed.Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115086/common-assessment-framework-too-child-centred-study-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115086/common-assessment-framework-too-child-centred-study-finds.htmlThe Common Assessment Framework (CAF) is so child-centred that it prevents social workers from gaining a holistic view of the child, according to new research. Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115082/enhanced-caf-could-replace-contactpoint.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115082/enhanced-caf-could-replace-contactpoint.htmlAn improved common assessment framework (CAF) would fill the gap left by the government's scrapping of ContactPoint, according to the authors of a study of frontline practitioners and experts commissioned.Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115077/four-in-10-social-workers-have-unmanageable-caseloads.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115077/four-in-10-social-workers-have-unmanageable-caseloads.htmlFour in 10 social workers feel their caseload is unmanageable and two-thirds say it has increased in the past 12 months, a survey has found. Picture: Rex FeaturesThu, 12 Aug 2010 10:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115080/troubled-children-held-too-far-from-home-says-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/12/115080/troubled-children-held-too-far-from-home-says-ofsted.htmlChildren held in secure accommodation are being placed too far from home, hampering plans for their resettlement, a report by Ofsted has found.Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115079/council-protects-childrens-social-workers-from-job-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115079/council-protects-childrens-social-workers-from-job-cuts.html Nottinghamshire Council has vowed to protect child protection social workers from job cuts over the next three years. The cuts will affect up to 3,000 other...Wed, 11 Aug 2010 12:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115078/fears-for-family-courts-in-2bn-ministry-of-justice-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/11/115078/fears-for-family-courts-in-2bn-ministry-of-justice-cuts.htmlFresh concerns have surfaced over the future of the family courts and the Youth Justice Board with the disclosure that the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) budget will be cut by £2bn. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/10/115071/community-care-launches-caseloads-survey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/10/115071/community-care-launches-caseloads-survey.html Community Care has launched a survey of social workers' caseloads to build an accurate picture of their...Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115072/essex-child-services-slammed-by-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115072/essex-child-services-slammed-by-ofsted.htmlEssex Council's child safeguarding services have been rated inadequate by Ofsted. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115067/children-harmed-by-long-delays-in-family-courts-charity-finds.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/09/115067/children-harmed-by-long-delays-in-family-courts-charity-finds.htmlFamily courts are now taking up to 65 weeks to rule if it is safe for children to stay with their parents, according to research by Barnardo's.Mon, 09 Aug 2010 10:06:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/06/115062/family-justice-system-to-implode-warns-top-judge.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/06/115062/family-justice-system-to-implode-warns-top-judge.htmlThe family justice system could “implode”, the judge in charge of it has warned, amid expectations nearly half of family legal aid law firms will lose their contract. Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:31:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/06/115051/contactpoint-switched-off-today.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/06/115051/contactpoint-switched-off-today.htmlThe government has today switched off ContactPoint, the £235m information-sharing database, as children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured) labelled it a "surrogate ID card" scheme.Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115045/progress-at-worcestershire-childrens-services-limited.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115045/progress-at-worcestershire-childrens-services-limited.htmlWorcestershire Council has made insufficient progress in addressing high caseloads and low staff capacity in its children's services department, according to Ofsted's latest unannounced inspection report.Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115049/care-system-close-to-collapse-says-fostering-network.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115049/care-system-close-to-collapse-says-fostering-network.htmlThe care system will collapse if children's services budgets are slashed and unless more foster carers are recruited, the Fostering Network has warned. Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:10:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115048/basw-rubbishes-unison-call-for-social-worker-pairings.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/05/115048/basw-rubbishes-unison-call-for-social-worker-pairings.htmlThe pairing up of social workers on child protection home visits may not make the job easier, the British Association of Social Workers has claimed.Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115041/abused-runaway-case-sparks-call-for-safety-net.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115041/abused-runaway-case-sparks-call-for-safety-net.htmlThe case of a 14-year-old girl from Manchester who was forced into prostitution has sparked calls for a UK-wide network of emergency accommodation for young runaways. Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115040/health-regulator-social-workers-have-nothing-to-fear.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/04/115040/health-regulator-social-workers-have-nothing-to-fear.htmlSocial work has nothing to fear from the Health Professions Council, the body's chief executive, Marc Seale (pictured), has insisted, as it takes over responsibility for regulating the profession.Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115035/birmingham-childrens-workers-routinely-have-30-40-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115035/birmingham-childrens-workers-routinely-have-30-40-cases.htmlIt is "not uncommon" for Birmingham children's social workers to have between 30 and 40 cases on at a time, according to the council's Unison branch.Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115030/cafcass-faces-questions-about-its-future.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/03/115030/cafcass-faces-questions-about-its-future.htmlCafcass faces questions over its future after an alliance of 18 organisations called on the government to consider alternative models. Picture: Rex FeaturesTue, 03 Aug 2010 08:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115028/community-care-launches-daily-email-service.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/08/02/115028/community-care-launches-daily-email-service.htmlCommunity Care has launched a free daily email service to help readers stay up to date with the latest news in social care. Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115019/khyra-ishaq-social-worker-had-50-cases-on-the-go.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115019/khyra-ishaq-social-worker-had-50-cases-on-the-go.htmlThe primary social worker involved in the Khyra Ishaq case had a workload of 50 allocated cases, according to the full version of the serious case review.Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:03:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115015/help-for-young-drug-users.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115015/help-for-young-drug-users.htmlA scheme in Wales using intensive techniques is delivering long-term benefits Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115017/council-offers-golden-hellos-to-childrens-nqsws.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/30/115017/council-offers-golden-hellos-to-childrens-nqsws.htmlTelford and Wrekin Council is offering newly qualified social workers £3,000 to join its children's services to help staff cope with a recent hike in demand for services. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115011/ofsted-to-face-select-committee-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115011/ofsted-to-face-select-committee-inquiry.htmlMPs are to launch an inquiry into the role and performance of Ofsted it was announced today.Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115009/no-alterations-made-to-khyra-ishaq-serious-case-review.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/29/115009/no-alterations-made-to-khyra-ishaq-serious-case-review.htmlFull publication did not alter any content of the Khyra Ishaq serious case review, the review author has told Community Care. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:14:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/114997/cafcass-efficiency-questioned-by-national-audit-office.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/114997/cafcass-efficiency-questioned-by-national-audit-office.htmlCafcass chief executive Anthony Douglas is facing renewed criticisms after the National Audit Office found its response to rising care applications would have been better if progress had been made in tackling organisational problems.Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:59:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/115000/independent-commission-to-look-into-early-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/115000/independent-commission-to-look-into-early-intervention.htmlThe government has confirmed an independent commission will be set up into early intervention to be chaired by Graham Allen MP. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 12:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/114996/quarter-of-childrens-nqsws-swamped-with-work-survey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/28/114996/quarter-of-childrens-nqsws-swamped-with-work-survey.htmlA quarter of newly qualified children's social workers in England feel their caseloads are too high, a survey by Ofsted has revealed.Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114993/cafcass-risks-clash-with-nagalro-by-recruiting-50-nqsws.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114993/cafcass-risks-clash-with-nagalro-by-recruiting-50-nqsws.htmlCafcass is recruiting 50 newly qualified social workers (NQSWs) under plans to reform its traditional career structures.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114991/khyra-ishaq-death-due-to-lack-of-information-sharing-says-scr.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114991/khyra-ishaq-death-due-to-lack-of-information-sharing-says-scr.htmlThe death of Khyra Ishaq was "preventable" and largely due to a lack of information sharing, according to the serious case review published today.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114995/khyra-death-shows-professionals-should-work-in-pairs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114995/khyra-death-shows-professionals-should-work-in-pairs.htmlThe death of Khyra Ishaq shows that social workers on child protection cases should be paired up, according to Unison.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114983/gscc-to-be-scrapped.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114983/gscc-to-be-scrapped.htmlThe General Social Care Council is to be scrapped as part of a government review of quangos. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114989/role-of-the-health-professions-council-and-changes-to-quangos.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114989/role-of-the-health-professions-council-and-changes-to-quangos.htmlThe Health Professions Council regulates 15 health workforces and was set up in 2001.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114990/what-gscc-abolition-could-mean-for-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/27/114990/what-gscc-abolition-could-mean-for-social-workers.htmlThe abolition of the General Social Care Council will have far-reaching implications for social care and social workers, including the cost of registration, regulation of professionals and training.Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:39:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114984/directors-blast-plan-to-downgrade-childrens-trusts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114984/directors-blast-plan-to-downgrade-childrens-trusts.htmlAllowing schools to opt out of children's trusts will undermine multi-agency working, according to the...Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114985/union-condemns-plan-for-school-staff-to-take-social-work-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114985/union-condemns-plan-for-school-staff-to-take-social-work-role.htmlUnion officials have condemned the use of schools staff to perform roles traditionally undertaken by qualified social workers at Calderdale Council. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:55:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114979/lambeth-special-education-needs-team-to-go-in-cuts-package.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/26/114979/lambeth-special-education-needs-team-to-go-in-cuts-package.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Lambeth council has scrapped its special education needs (SEN) team as part of a bid to cut £90m from its budget over the...Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:53:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114957/future-of-yjb-to-be-decided-in-autumn-green-paper.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114957/future-of-yjb-to-be-decided-in-autumn-green-paper.htmlKey decisions on youth justice reform, including the future of the Youth Justice Board and devolved custody budgets, will be unveiled in the government's autumn green paper. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114959/childrens-trusts-to-be-downgraded-states-gove.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114959/childrens-trusts-to-be-downgraded-states-gove.htmlChildren's Trusts will be radically reformed in the Autumn, the government announced today. Following up from hints made before the election, education secretary Michael Gove (pictured) said a forthcoming Education Bill would mean local authorities would no longer have to set up children's trust boards or publish a joint children and young people's plan. (Pic credit Rex)Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:20:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114954/contactpoint-database-will-close-on-6-august.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114954/contactpoint-database-will-close-on-6-august.html Contactpoint will be switched off on 6 August, ministers announced today. In a ministerial...Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114947/social-services-bomber-jailed.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/22/114947/social-services-bomber-jailed.html A South Yorkshire man who planted a bomb outside Doncaster Council's children's department in a revenge attack on social workers has been jailed indefinitely. Former...Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:47:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/21/114951/teenagers-denied-help-due-to-social-workers-misperceptions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/21/114951/teenagers-denied-help-due-to-social-workers-misperceptions.htmlTeenagers are missing out on help because social workers view them as more resilient and able to cope with the effects of abuse, according to a report by The Children's Society.Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114945/families-happy-with-aiming-high-breaks.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114945/families-happy-with-aiming-high-breaks.htmlMore families are happy with short breaks provided under the Aiming High for Disabled Children programme, according to a report launched by Every Disabled Child Matters (EDCM) today.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114936/scots-councils-cant-account-for-34m-disabled-children-fund.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/20/114936/scots-councils-cant-account-for-34m-disabled-children-fund.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Scottish councils have been unable to account for how £34m of funding for disabled children and their families was spent,...Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114939/disadvantaged-children-likely-victims-of-academies-bill.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114939/disadvantaged-children-likely-victims-of-academies-bill.htmlChildren in care and those with special educational needs are likely to be the first victims of the coalition's flagship Academies Bill, campaigners have warned. (Picture credit: Rex Features)Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114930/national-college-co-chairs-pledge-to-engage-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/19/114930/national-college-co-chairs-pledge-to-engage-social-workers.htmlEngaging social workers will be a major short-term challenge for the College of Social Work, according to its newly-appointed joint interim chairs Maurice Bates and Corinne May-Chahal (pictured)Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114924/social-worker-wins-top-council-award-for-saving-boy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114924/social-worker-wins-top-council-award-for-saving-boy.html A social worker from Hampshire Council has been voted Council Worker of the Year after preventing a young boy from committing suicide on a motorway bridge....Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114923/birminghams-safeguarding-services-still-inadequate.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114923/birminghams-safeguarding-services-still-inadequate.html Birmingham Council's safeguarding children services are still inadequate...Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:34:39 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114926/first-serious-case-review-to-be-marked-outstanding-by-ofsted.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114926/first-serious-case-review-to-be-marked-outstanding-by-ofsted.html Only five serious case reviews of 66 done by local safegauarding children boards in 2010 have been deemed inadequate, while one has been marked outstanding...Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114920/government-axes-15m-for-ics-improvements.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114920/government-axes-15m-for-ics-improvements.htmlThe government has scrapped the £15m promised by the previous government to help local authorities improve their integrated children's systems (ICS) under further budget cuts announced by Michael Gove the education secretary.Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114919/white-paper-gps-will-need-to-buy-in-specialist-support.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/16/114919/white-paper-gps-will-need-to-buy-in-specialist-support.htmlGPs will need to buy in expertise to meet the needs of vulnerable groups, NHS leaders admitted after plans to give family doctors responsibility for health commissioning sparked concerns from social care charities.Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:35:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114915/sandwell-calls-time-on-practice-pilot-for-looked-after-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114915/sandwell-calls-time-on-practice-pilot-for-looked-after-children.html Sandwell Council has dropped out of the government's social work practice pilot scheme for looked after children. Bob Badham, the council's cabinet...Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114912/sector-concern-as-nhs-regulators-encroach-on-social-care.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114912/sector-concern-as-nhs-regulators-encroach-on-social-care.htmlGovernment plans to give healthcare monitoring bodies powers over social care have sparked concerns from sector head, including Ruth Cartwright, of the British Association of Social WorkersThu, 15 Jul 2010 15:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114911/scr-manchester-boys-injuries-due-to-social-worker-failure.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114911/scr-manchester-boys-injuries-due-to-social-worker-failure.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk A boy suffered injuries that left him disabled because a social worker failed to put him on a child protection plan when his...Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114910/restorative-justice-key-to-cutting-offending-says-commission.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114910/restorative-justice-key-to-cutting-offending-says-commission.htmlIncreasing restorative justice provision would reduce youth reoffending and halve the number of young people in custody, according to a major new report.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 12:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114904/moat-asked-childrens-social-workers-for-psychiatric-help.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114904/moat-asked-childrens-social-workers-for-psychiatric-help.htmlGunman Raoul Moat (pictured) asked children's social workers for pscyhiatric help, but then failed to attend appointments, in the months before he killed a man and shot his ex-girlfriend and a policeman.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:58:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114909/working-group-to-provide-child-protection-guidance-for-doctors.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114909/working-group-to-provide-child-protection-guidance-for-doctors.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk The General Medical Council (GMC) has announced the creation of a working group to produce new guidance for doctors involved...Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:51:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114908/integration-undermined-by-child-protection-agenda.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114908/integration-undermined-by-child-protection-agenda.htmlEngland's attempts to integrate children's services may have been undermined by the policy emphasis on child protection...Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:24:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114907/gloucestershire-cuts-family-intervention-projects.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/15/114907/gloucestershire-cuts-family-intervention-projects.htmlGloucestershire Council is cutting back on its virtual school for looked-after children, family intervention projects and parenting programmes in an effort to save £3.2m.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:16:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114898/charities-say-gps-lack-expertise-to-commission-all-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114898/charities-say-gps-lack-expertise-to-commission-all-services.htmlGPs lack the expertise to commission care services, when it comes to some conditions, and their proposed new powers could lead to postcode lotteries, campaigners warn.Tue, 13 Jul 2010 20:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114899/burstow-pcts-scrapped-to-aid-health-and-social-care-links.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114899/burstow-pcts-scrapped-to-aid-health-and-social-care-links.htmlPrimary care trusts were no longer "fit for purpose" and had to go as the price to deliver integrated health and social care, according to care services minister Paul Burstow.Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114897/valuing-people-now-under-threat.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/13/114897/valuing-people-now-under-threat.htmlStaff delivering the key government programme to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities have been told their jobs could be axed, Community Care has learned.Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114896/councils-to-be-granted-powers-over-public-health.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114896/councils-to-be-granted-powers-over-public-health.htmlLocal authorities will be given statutory responsibility for bringing health and social care together under radical NHS reforms announced by health secretary Andrew Lansley today. (Picture credit Rex)Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114895/future-of-social-care-institute-for-excellence-in-doubt.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114895/future-of-social-care-institute-for-excellence-in-doubt.htmlThe future of the Social Care Institute for Excellence has been called into question after the government announced the National Institute for Health and...Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:13:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114892/pay-concerns-dent-job-satisfaction-of-childrens-nqsws.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114892/pay-concerns-dent-job-satisfaction-of-childrens-nqsws.htmlHigh levels of job satisfaction and concerns about pay have been reported by newly qualified social workers enrolled in the Children's Workforce Development Council's support programme.Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114890/support-for-reform-of-scrs-gathers-momentum.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114890/support-for-reform-of-scrs-gathers-momentum.html Momentum is gathering behind a push to replace the current system of serious case reviews with a model devised by the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE). The current SCR system is being examined as part of review of the child protection system led by Professor Eileen Munro, who developed the Scie model. Association of Directors of Children's Services president Marion Davis, who is part of Munro's review panel, told the association's annual conference last week that the Scie model should be rolled out across the country. She said the model, currently being piloted, was a "much more thoughtful, wider-ranging way of going about looking at what's happened". Davis also claimed the pilots were producing solid evidence that cases put through this approach led to "much more learning" than in the current SCR system. She believed there was "a lot of scope" within the Munro review to "have a good look at this". The Scie system, developed in 2008, was presented in a research...Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114889/independent-social-workers-refute-attack-on-their-court-role.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114889/independent-social-workers-refute-attack-on-their-court-role.html Independent social workers have been left dismayed by calls from directors of children's services to end their role in care application proceedings. Marion Davis, president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services, made the call at the association's annual conference in Manchester last week. She said ISWs were "an expensive part of the landscape" and that their second opinions had a "detrimental effect" on local authority social worker morale. Davis claimed she could not think of a single, negative impact on court proceedings if independent social workers were removed from the process. Stephen Cameron, ISW and trainer based in Bristol, said he was "dismayed" at Davis's stance and that as far as he was concerned ISWs played a crucial role in court proceedings. "In my experience ISWs usually speed up court proceedings because we're called in to cut through any difficulties the court has run into," he said. "Unlike some other expert witnesses, we're always given...Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114888/low-morale-at-cqc-driven-by-overwork-and-safety-concerns.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114888/low-morale-at-cqc-driven-by-overwork-and-safety-concerns.htmlLow staff morale at the Care Quality Commission is being driven by overwork and the fact that inspectors fear their ability to keep service users safe is being compromised.Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114887/inquiry-may-threaten-future-of-childrens-commissioner.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114887/inquiry-may-threaten-future-of-childrens-commissioner.htmlThe role of the Children's Commissioner in England, held by Maggie Atkinson (pictured), is under threat as an independent review into its future starts. Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:30:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114886/do-social-workers-need-some-medical-training.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/12/114886/do-social-workers-need-some-medical-training.htmlShould social workers' training include basic medicine to help them identify clients' needs and find appropriate help? Journalist and mental health service user Richard Shrubb says that it should Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114883/blackburn-merges-management-of-nhs-and-council.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114883/blackburn-merges-management-of-nhs-and-council.htmlManagement of local government and health will be merged in Blackburn with Darwen after the council backed the plan last night.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 17:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114880/poverty-debt-and-hunger-dog-families-of-disabled-children.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114880/poverty-debt-and-hunger-dog-families-of-disabled-children.html camilla.pemberton@rbi.co.uk Almost a quarter of families with disabled children are going without heating while 14% are going without food according...Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:18:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114879/childrens-services-budgets-at-risk-from-academies.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114879/childrens-services-budgets-at-risk-from-academies.htmlChildren's services budgets may be used to pay for the increase in academies, it is feared.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:26:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114876/high-court-ruling-is-victory-for-care-leavers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114876/high-court-ruling-is-victory-for-care-leavers.htmlSocial workers must review the care plans of all children leaving care, according to a landmark High Court judgement. Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:29:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114875/independent-social-worker-role-should-end-says-adcs-chief.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/09/114875/independent-social-worker-role-should-end-says-adcs-chief.htmlIndependent social workers' role in court should cease, according to Marion Davis, president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 11:15:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/07/114859/use-of-virtual-courts-set-to-rise-in-family-cases.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/07/114859/use-of-virtual-courts-set-to-rise-in-family-cases.html Care applications could be heard in "virtual courts" in the future, according to sector experts. The plans follow last month's announcement...Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:11:13 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114857/green-paper-for-children-with-sen-set-for-autumn.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114857/green-paper-for-children-with-sen-set-for-autumn.html The government has announced it will publish a green paper on children with special educational needs (SEN) and disabilities in the autumn. Speaking...Tue, 06 Jul 2010 17:20:25 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114855/shoesmith-publishing-scrs-will-increase-blame-game.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114855/shoesmith-publishing-scrs-will-increase-blame-game.htmlSharon Shoesmith, former director of children's services at Haringey Council, has said full publication of serious case reviews may make agencies run for cover "even faster" when things go wrong.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:54:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114852/sharon-shoesmith-considers-further-appeal.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114852/sharon-shoesmith-considers-further-appeal.htmlSharon Shoesmith has yet to decide whether to appeal a High Court decision preventing a judicial review of her sacking as director of children's services at Haringey Council after the Baby P case in December 2008.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114849/controversial-yjb-restraint-manual-to-be-made-public.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114849/controversial-yjb-restraint-manual-to-be-made-public.htmlThe Youth Justice Board (YJB) has agreed to disclose a manual containing details of controversial techniques used to restrain children in secure training centres (STCs).Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:43:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114821/paul-maynard-mp-life-with-cerebral-palsy-and-epilepsy.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/06/114821/paul-maynard-mp-life-with-cerebral-palsy-and-epilepsy.htmlConservative MP Paul Maynard talks to Jeremy Dunning about how he will influence policy on disability in parliament Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114845/bonuses-for-social-workers-as-childrens-referrals-double.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114845/bonuses-for-social-workers-as-childrens-referrals-double.htmlBromley Council is offering social workers bonuses to improve recruitment and retention as referrals rise and budgets fall.Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:19:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114844/social-services-in-wales-fear-job-losses.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114844/social-services-in-wales-fear-job-losses.html Directors of social services in Wales are refusing to rule out job losses as they attempt to tackle the funding crisis hitting their departments. Back-office...Mon, 05 Jul 2010 13:54:05 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114841/spare-elderly-and-child-protection-from-cuts-survey.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/05/114841/spare-elderly-and-child-protection-from-cuts-survey.htmlOnly 1% of the public believe social care for older people or child protection services should be cut to save public money, a Local Government Association survey has found.Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/02/114831/ten-year-plan-for-welsh-social-services-to-be-published-in-2011.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/02/114831/ten-year-plan-for-welsh-social-services-to-be-published-in-2011.html A blueprint for reforming social services in Wales over the next ten years will be published in early 2011, the Welsh Assembly government has announced. Speaking...Fri, 02 Jul 2010 14:11:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114822/birmingham-council-to-make-13m-cuts-to-childrens-services.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114822/birmingham-council-to-make-13m-cuts-to-childrens-services.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk Birmingham council is having to make cuts of £13m within children's services, with almost 1,500 job posts set to disappear,...Thu, 01 Jul 2010 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114818/publishing-scrs-in-full-would-attract-less-media-attention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114818/publishing-scrs-in-full-would-attract-less-media-attention.htmlPublishing serious case reviews in full would make them less interesting to the media, children's minister Tim Loughton (pictured) has told Community Care.Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:52:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114814/eileen-munros-safeguarding-review-panel-unveiled.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/01/114814/eileen-munros-safeguarding-review-panel-unveiled.htmlThe panel that will help Professor Eileen Munro in her review of the child protection system has been revealed exclusively to Community Care. It includes The Sun's 2007 'Wondermum' Avril Head (pictured, credit The Sun)Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114819/family-justice-review-to-examine-role-of-cafcass.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/30/114819/family-justice-review-to-examine-role-of-cafcass.htmlThe Family Justice Review will examine the effectiveness of Cafcass and where efficiency savings can be made in family courts the government today confirmed.Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/29/114810/loughton-and-munro-answer-community-care-readers-questions.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/29/114810/loughton-and-munro-answer-community-care-readers-questions.htmlReaders told Community Care on CareSpace what they would like to ask Professor Eileen Munro, head of the review of child protection, and children's minister Tim Loughton. Here are some of their answers in an exclusive interview.Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/28/114807/care-delays-cost-30000-a-child-every-year.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/28/114807/care-delays-cost-30000-a-child-every-year.htmlDelays and instability when taking a child into care cost councils £32,755 a child each year, according to a report from the think-tank Demos.Mon, 28 Jun 2010 09:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114798/councils-must-transform-not-slash-services-to-meet-cuts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114798/councils-must-transform-not-slash-services-to-meet-cuts.html Councils must transform social services through preventive measures rather than simply slash budgets if they are to shield vulnerable children, families...Fri, 25 Jun 2010 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114796/doubts-over-success-of-family-intervention-projects.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114796/doubts-over-success-of-family-intervention-projects.htmlFamily intervention projects (FIPs), hailed as one of Labour's strongest weapons against antisocial behaviour, are less successful than previously thought, according to a new report.Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:34:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114808/nottinghamshire-council-spent-1.5m-on-agency-social-workers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114808/nottinghamshire-council-spent-1.5m-on-agency-social-workers.html Nottinghamshire Council has spent £1.5m on agency social work teams because it does not have enough permanent staff to handle a 43% jump in child protection...Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114804/social-workers-criticised-over-adoption-reports.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/25/114804/social-workers-criticised-over-adoption-reports.html Children's social workers have been criticised for failing to prepare adoption reports properly and for being too idealistic about finding matches. A...Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:44:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114792/budget-predicted-to-hit-poorest-and-most-vulnerable-hardest.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/24/114792/budget-predicted-to-hit-poorest-and-most-vulnerable-hardest.html The UK's poorest families will be the worst hit by the government's emergency Budget to reduce the public sector deficit, experts and sector leaders have...Thu, 24 Jun 2010 13:38:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114782/concerns-over-proposed-closure-of-courts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114782/concerns-over-proposed-closure-of-courts.htmlMore than 150 magistrates' courts and county courts in England and Wales could be closed to save money, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has announced. The move has prompted concerns about the impact on an already overstretched family courts system.Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:17:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114781/doncaster-rates-own-childrens-services-very-poor.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114781/doncaster-rates-own-childrens-services-very-poor.htmlDoncaster has rated its own children's services as still "very poor", more than a year after the government intervention.Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114780/social-care-budgets-could-be-slashed-by-a-third-say-experts.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/23/114780/social-care-budgets-could-be-slashed-by-a-third-say-experts.htmlSocial care budgets could be slashed by one-third over the next four years after yesterday's emergency Budget, public spending experts have warned.Wed, 23 Jun 2010 15:04:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114775/unison-osborne-declaring-war-with-pay-freeze.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114775/unison-osborne-declaring-war-with-pay-freeze.htmlA two-year public sector pay freeze from 2011 proposed by chancellor George Osborne in today's emergency Budget speech is a "declaration of war", according to trade union Unison.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:42:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114774/lowest-paid-public-sector-works-spared-pay-cut-in-budget.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114774/lowest-paid-public-sector-works-spared-pay-cut-in-budget.htmlThe lowest earning public sector workers will be spared a pay freeze, under plans announced by chancellor George Osborne in today's Budget.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 13:45:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114770/dont-refer-soft-concerns-to-social-workers-agencies-told.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114770/dont-refer-soft-concerns-to-social-workers-agencies-told.htmlChildren's chief hits out over "soft" referrals that other agencies should deal withTue, 22 Jun 2010 11:46:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114773/council-social-workers-cant-practise-ethically.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114773/council-social-workers-cant-practise-ethically.htmlA leading academic has questioned whether social workers are able to operate ethically while employed by local authorities. Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:27:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114760/labour-governments-faith-in-ics-compared-to-belief-in-magic.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/22/114760/labour-governments-faith-in-ics-compared-to-belief-in-magic.htmlThe former government's implementation of the integrated children's system (ICS) has been compared by leading academics to a belief in magic. (Picture credit: Alamy)Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:49:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114766/salford-childrens-services-at-risk-of-intervention.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114766/salford-childrens-services-at-risk-of-intervention.html Salford Council's children's services department is at risk of government intervention following its latest Ofsted report rating safeguarding services as...Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:11:41 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114762/tracing-birth-parents-via-social-network-sites-holds-dangers.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114762/tracing-birth-parents-via-social-network-sites-holds-dangers.html camilla.pemberton@rbi.co.uk Social workers and adoptive parents are being warned about the negative impact social networking sites can have when adopted...Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:36:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114758/essexs-social-care-health-and-housing-in-cash-saving-plan.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114758/essexs-social-care-health-and-housing-in-cash-saving-plan.htmlFive councils and two primary care trusts in South Essex are to look at how to save money by combining their commissioning powers across social care, health and housing.Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:32:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114751/mencap-learning-disabled-still-discriminated-against-by-nhs.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114751/mencap-learning-disabled-still-discriminated-against-by-nhs.htmlPeople with learning disabilities are still facing discriminatory healthcare while medical professionals lack training in meeting their needs, despite a string of inquiries into the issue in recent years.Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:25:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114761/ofsted-chief-will-step-down-early-if-helpful-to-government.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/21/114761/ofsted-chief-will-step-down-early-if-helpful-to-government.htmlOfsted's chief inspector Christine Gilbert will not be renewing her contract when it expires in 2011 and she has indicated she might be prepared to leave her post earlierMon, 21 Jun 2010 13:56:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/18/114729/surrey-denies-child-protection-report-link-with-dispatches.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/18/114729/surrey-denies-child-protection-report-link-with-dispatches.htmlSurrey Council has promised to deliver an annual report on child protection in the county in return for the removal of government intervention, put in place two years ago. This comes a week after Channel 4 screened Dispatches Undercover Social Worker, which exposed problems within child protection at the council. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:02:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114734/cameron-to-head-up-childhood-and-families-taskforce.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114734/cameron-to-head-up-childhood-and-families-taskforce.html Prime minister David Cameron will chair a childhood and families ministerial taskforce, made up from ministers across several departments, which will attempt...Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:50:14 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114730/fostering-services-underfunded-by-580m-report-says.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/17/114730/fostering-services-underfunded-by-580m-report-says.html A further £580 million is needed to develop a properly resourced fostering service that meets the needs of children in care a...Thu, 17 Jun 2010 09:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114728/contactpoint-to-continue-for-now.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114728/contactpoint-to-continue-for-now.html molly.garboden@rbi.co.uk ContactPoint will remain in limited operation while the government makes firmer decisions on what should come after it. A...Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:01:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114727/social-workers-blameless-in-shannon-matthews-case.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114727/social-workers-blameless-in-shannon-matthews-case.htmlThe abduction of Shannon Matthews could not have been foreseen by social workers or other professionals involved with the case, a serious case review has confirmed. (Pic credit: Rex)Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:40:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114725/councils-already-cutting-social-care-to-hit-savings-target.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/16/114725/councils-already-cutting-social-care-to-hit-savings-target.htmlCouncils are already planning to cut social care services to meet a government savings target of £1.1bn this year.Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:00:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114717/home-office-minister-risks-coalition-rift-over-baby-p-inquiry.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114717/home-office-minister-risks-coalition-rift-over-baby-p-inquiry.htmlLiberal Democrat Home Office minister Lynne Featherstone (pictured) has called for a public inquiry into the death of Baby P, despite this being ruled out by the government. (Picture credit: Rex Features)Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:08:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114720/warning-for-munro-review-from-former-taskforce-members.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114720/warning-for-munro-review-from-former-taskforce-members.htmlFormer members of the Social Work Task Force have warned that the government's review of child protection in England must deliver "quick and meaningful" conclusions.Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:05:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114719/social-workers-judge-parents-with-learning-disabilities.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114719/social-workers-judge-parents-with-learning-disabilities.htmlParents with learning disabilities feel the most harshly judged by social workers according to a report from the children's commissioner published today.Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:57:00 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114718/government-reins-in-vetting-and-barring-scheme.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114718/government-reins-in-vetting-and-barring-scheme.html The government has announced it is halting registration to the Vetting...Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:54:21 GMThttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114711/yarls-wood-children-failed-by-social-workers-says-report.htmlhttp://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2010/06/15/114711/yarls-wood-children-failed-by-social-wo