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"This report rightly recognises the increased pressures facing local authorities when it comes to protecting vulnerable children."

“No child should grow up in poverty and this report is a stark reminder of the challenges facing low-income families and other vulnerable households."

“It is vital the Government fully funds the early years entitlements, ensuring providers get the support they need while enabling all children to have access to places.”

“Access to childcare is vital for all families, especially for those on the lowest incomes, the most disadvantaged children, women and single-parent families."

The LGA said councils are bracing themselves for a rise in referrals for support that would have normally been made when children were being seen regularly by social workers and health workers. Some children and families will need significant interventions, including child protection plans or even coming into the care system. But for many, they will just need some extra help to get through a difficult period. That could be low level mental health support, sessions with a youth worker, understanding how to support children showing difficult behaviours, or working through parental conflict. H

“We really do encourage parents to check if their child needs any vaccinations to make sure they are properly protected.”

Figures reveal only a small number of eligible youngsters are taking part in the Government’s National Citizen Service (NCS), despite hundreds of millions of pounds of government investment.

We have long called for a register for all home educators to ensure that children are receiving a suitable education in a safe environment."

"We have long raised with government that councils lack the powers to ensure that children who are missing school don’t slip through the net."

​​​​​​​The Government’s plans to introduce a compulsory register for home-educated children risk failing children’s safety unless councils are given the powers to enter a premises to check on a child’s schooling, councils warn today.