Figures released by Cafcass (Children & Family Court Advisory Service) this week have confirmed that January 2012 saw the highest ever number of care applications being issued. The total number of care application was 903 in January alone. This is the highest figure that Cafcass has seen since records started in 2001. The figures show an increase of 12% on last year. The average number of applications issued each month is 840 which is a significant increase from the average of 508 in 2008.

The increase in care proceedings is probably due to a number of high profile cases such as Baby P. In these cases the local authority failed to act to protect children who were clearly at risk of harm.

These high figures will of course have an impact on local authority resources which are becoming increasingly stretched with cuts being made constantly and the ever demands of new cases will also put a strain on Cafcass resources.

It is however reassuring that local authorities’ are taking the action they need to, to ensure child protection and safety of children. If you find yourself in the difficult situation of being involved with the local authority regarding your children then please contact Helen Varty who is a specialist in representing both parents and children in care proceedings and is a member of the Children Panel at QualitySolicitors Oliver & Co on 01244312306.