Children in care have complex needs. Jackie Cosh reviews the
guidance and legislation relevant to nurseries, plus training
options.

The number of children in care is at a 20-year high. There are nearly 70,000 children in care in the UK, of which a significant proportion - 17 per cent - are between one and four years old.

These children often have some of the most complex needs nursery staff will come across. Challenging behaviour, learning difficulties and disabilities, and behavioural and mental health needs are all common. Many of them come from the poorest backgrounds and more than 60 per cent of children are taken into care because of neglect or abuse. Others are there because their parents have died or cannot look after them. Most live in foster homes.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here