Liverpool’s Children in Care

A child or young person cared for by their local authority may be referred to as a “looked-after” child. They might be living in a children’s home, with foster parents, or in another family arrangement. In Liverpool, mental health support for children and young people in care is delivered as a collaborative approach. A partnership of NHS providers and third-sector organisations works together to deliver services across different levels of need, from prevention—being mentally healthy—to high levels of specialist help.

Every child in care is assigned a Social Worker responsible for creating and managing an effective care plan. This plan should address all aspects of the child’s health and development to ensure they reach their developmental milestones and transition successfully into adulthood.

Despite the term “looked-after child,” it applies to any young person up to the age of 18. They may have been taken into care for various reasons, such as parental inability to cope due to illness, disability, or family breakdown. The most common reason for a child to be taken into care is to protect them from abuse or neglect.

Impact of Abuse and Neglect

Experiencing abuse or neglect, known as maltreatment, significantly increases the risk of trauma symptoms in children and young people. Maltreatment is considered a major Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE), with long-term detrimental effects on physical and mental health.

Child maltreatment refers to any action causing significant harm to a child or young person, often occurring within relationships of power and trust.

The Trauma of Moving into Care

Entering the care system can be an additional traumatic experience due to increased uncertainty, insecurity, and feelings of loss. Changes in care placements can disrupt relationships with family, friends, and others, such as schoolmates.

Due to their experiences before and during care, looked-after children are at a much higher risk of poor mental health compared to their peers. Research indicates that approximately 45% of looked-after children have a diagnosable mental health disorder, with 70%-80% having recognisable mental health concerns.