Due to lockdown there was a 15% rise in referral rate compared to before lockdown. Domestic abuse and neglect were the most common reason for referrals, closely followed by mental health related reasons. Alcohol and substance abuse were also major factors. Aside from child protection referrals major strain on the budget was also foster placement of children, along with personnel covering for quarantined colleagues.
In April referrals actually decreased by 50% as kids came into less contact with people capable of raising concerns with the authorities. The rise in referrals is putting strain on the system. Many families are suffering because of loss of jobs and heightened tensions. Social distancing is causing a rise in mental illness related issues, with more kids presenting with depression or low moods and parents with higher rates of anxiety.
Without further financial support only 35% of childcare services would be able to go on without any reduction in services.
It was feared that ‘invisible’ crisis of abuse and neglect would take place during lockdown, and the surge in referrals since reopening suggests that it has indeed taken place.
Additional financial support is on the way and social workers are being brought back on a temporary register to help shoulder the increased needs of the system.
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