16/10/2014

Children In Need Referrals Rise

The number of Children in Need referrals in Northern Ireland has risen over the last number of years, according to the 'Children’s Social Care Statistics for Northern Ireland 2013/14' released by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.

As of 31 March 2014, 25,998 children in Northern Ireland were known to Social Services as a Child in Need.

Between 2012/13 and 2013/14, the number of Children in Need referrals rose by 7% to reach 40,165 referrals.

Of the children referred, a quarter had their needs met at the time of referral whereas 71% were allocated for further action, the report said.

Neglect and physical abuse were the main reasons for a child being on the Child Protection Register.

(IT/MH)

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